So taking up a book he began to read.

A shadow fell across the page.

He looked up and saw his foster-brother standing by the bedside.

But, oh, how changed! His fair hair clotted with blood; his face pale and drawn, and his garments all gory.

He uttered the following words: "Inverawe, shield not the murderer; blood must flow for blood," and then faded away out of sight.
In spite of the spirit's commands, Inverawe remained true to his promise, and returned next day to Macniven with fresh provisions.
That night his foster-brother again appeared to him uttering the same warning: "Inverawe, Inverawe, shield not the murderer; blood must flow for blood".