This sword was held by Socht for a tribal possession from father and grandfather.
There was at this time a famous steward to the High King in Tara whose name was Dubdrenn.

This man asked Socht to sell him the sword.

He promised to Socht such a ration as he, Dubdrenn, had every night, and four men's food for the family of Socht, and, after that, Socht to have the full value of the sword at his own appraisement.

"No," said Socht.

"I may not sell my father's treasures while he is alive." And thus they went on, Dubdrenn's mind ever running on the sword.