[8] The only other apparent error is in the final chapter, where Lasrianus, the founder of Devenish in Lough Erne, who died nearly two centuries earlier is represented as still being alive at the time of Samthann's death.
[13] Associated evidence, however, such as the relatively short period of prominence for the monastery at Clonbroney (the convent, which may have been founded as early as the fifth century, fades from the records after the death of Abbess Caillechdomhnaill in 1163),[14] the use of individual names (in particular Niall, son of Fergal, king of Cenél Éogain, and Uí Néill overlord from 763 to 770 and Flann son of Connla),[15] and the association of the monastery in the mid- to late eighth century with the royal family of Tethba, in Cairpre Gabra, all support the notion that this Life was initially composed within a few generations of the saint's death, and is a well-preserved late eighth to early ninth century Life.
Sylvester O'Halloran (1728–1807) speculated that Saint Samthana, Abbess of Clonbrone, took her name from the Samnothes, an Irish religious order related to the Druids.
[19] On the strength of this Samthann moved from her initial monastery at Urney in Tyrone where she served as a stewardess,[20] south to Clonbroney, which was located just east of the modern town of Longford.
When he left the monastery and crossed the river to meet the girl a giant eel rose out of the water, bit him on the genitals and wrapped itself around his waist.
Nái mile do-rochratar i cath Uchbadh co n-deni do slogh Galian ger gart-glan, mor in martgal fer Féine.