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II


These are the symbols. On that cloth of red

I' the centre is the Tripoint: perfect each,

Except the second of its points, to teach

That Christ is not yet born. The books—whose head

Is golden Charity, as Paul hath said—

Those virtues are wherein the soul is rich:

Therefore on them the lily standeth, which

Is Innocence, being interpreted.


The seven-thorn'd briar and the palm seven-leaved

Are her great sorrow and her great reward.

Until the end be full, the Holy One

Abides without. She soon shall have achieved

Her perfect purity: yea, God the Lord

Shall soon vouchsafe His Son to be her Son.