Page:Ante-Nicene Fathers volume 1.djvu/505

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THE SPURIOUS EPISTLES OF IGNATIUS.
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herself more devotedly than the devoted, and is wonderfully magnified by all, while at the same time she suffers detraction from the scribes and Pharisees. Besides these points, many relate to us numerous other things regarding her. We do not, however, go so far as believe all in every particular; nor do we mention such to thee. But, as we are informed by those who are worthy of credit, there is in Mary the mother of Jesus an angelic purity of nature allied with the nature of humanity.[1] And such reports as these have greatly excited our emotions, and urge us eagerly to desire a sight of this (if it be lawful so to speak) heavenly prodigy and most sacred marvel. But do thou in haste comply with this our desire; and fare thee well. Amen.

  1. Literally. "a nature of angelic purity is allied to human nature."