This was called "The Fiery Cross:,
also "Creau Toigh" or "Cross of Shame", because disobedience to what the symbol
implied, inferred infamy.
The cross was transferred from hand
to hand, and sped through the chief's territories with incredible speed.
At the sight of the Fiery Cross, every man from 16 to 60 was obliged to go
at once to the appointed meeting place.
He who neglected the summons exposed himself to the penalties of fire and sword, which were symbolized by the blood and burned marks on the fiery herald of woe!
