210
Aestimavit Hortolanum.
The very elegant hymn, Pange lingua Magdalene, of English origin, is in the Sarum Breviary divided into three, for Vespers, Matins, and Lauds. I translated it for the Hymnal Noted; but it was thought too complex for popular use. The Lauds hymn was accidentally kept: the other translations lost. It is in the Clewer edition of the Day Hours.
As the Gardener, Him addressing,
Well and rightly she believ'd:
He, the Sower, gave His blessing
To the seed her heart receiv'd:
Not at first His Form confessing,
Soon His Voice her soul perceiv'd.
She beheld, as yet not knowing
In the mystical disguise,
Christ, That in her breast was sowing
Deep and heavenly mysteries:
Till His Voice, her name bestowing,
Bade her hear and recognize.