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+Project Gutenberg's The Vision of Purgatory, Complete, by Dante Alighieri
+Translated By The Rev. H. F. Cary, Illustrated by Gustave Dore
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Vision of Purgatory, Complete
+       Translated By The Rev. H. F. Cary, Illustrated by Gustave Dore
+
+Author: Dante Alighieri
+
+Release Date: August 5, 2004 [EBook #8795]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE VISION OF PURGATORY, COMPLETE ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Widger
+
+
+
+
+
+THE VISION
+
+OF
+
+HELL, PURGATORY, AND PARADISE
+
+BY DANTE ALIGHIERI
+
+
+
+
+PURGATORY
+
+Complete
+
+
+
+TRANSLATED BY
+
+THE REV. H. F. CARY
+
+
+
+PURGATORY
+
+Cantos 1 - 33
+
+
+
+CANTO I
+
+O'er better waves to speed her rapid course
+The light bark of my genius lifts the sail,
+Well pleas'd to leave so cruel sea behind;
+And of that second region will I sing,
+In which the human spirit from sinful blot
+Is purg'd, and for ascent to Heaven prepares.
+
+Here, O ye hallow'd Nine! for in your train
+I follow, here the deadened strain revive;
+Nor let Calliope refuse to sound
+A somewhat higher song, of that loud tone,
+Which when the wretched birds of chattering note
+Had heard, they of forgiveness lost all hope.
+
+Sweet hue of eastern sapphire, that was spread
+O'er the serene aspect of the pure air,
+High up as the first circle, to mine eyes
+Unwonted joy renew'd, soon as I 'scap'd
+Forth from the atmosphere of deadly gloom,
+That had mine eyes and bosom fill'd with grief.
+The radiant planet, that to love invites,
+Made all the orient laugh, and veil'd beneath
+The Pisces' light, that in his escort came.
+
+To the right hand I turn'd, and fix'd my mind
+On the' other pole attentive, where I saw
+Four stars ne'er seen before save by the ken
+Of our first parents.  Heaven of their rays
+Seem'd joyous.  O thou northern site, bereft
+Indeed, and widow'd, since of these depriv'd!
+
+As from this view I had desisted, straight
+Turning a little tow'rds the other pole,
+There from whence now the wain had disappear'd,
+I saw an old man standing by my side
+Alone, so worthy of rev'rence in his look,
+That ne'er from son to father more was ow'd.
+Low down his beard and mix'd with hoary white
+Descended, like his locks, which parting fell
+Upon his breast in double fold.  The beams
+Of those four luminaries on his face
+So brightly shone, and with such radiance clear
+Deck'd it, that I beheld him as the sun.
+
+"Say who are ye, that stemming the blind stream,
+Forth from th' eternal prison-house have fled?"
+He spoke and moved those venerable plumes.
+"Who hath conducted, or with lantern sure
+Lights you emerging from the depth of night,
+That makes the infernal valley ever black?
+Are the firm statutes of the dread abyss
+Broken, or in high heaven new laws ordain'd,
+That thus, condemn'd, ye to my caves approach?"
+
+My guide, then laying hold on me, by words
+And intimations given with hand and head,
+Made my bent knees and eye submissive pay
+Due reverence; then thus to him replied.
+
+"Not of myself I come; a Dame from heaven
+Descending, had besought me in my charge
+To bring.  But since thy will implies, that more
+Our true condition I unfold at large,
+Mine is not to deny thee thy request.
+This mortal ne'er hath seen the farthest gloom.
+But erring by his folly had approach'd
+So near, that little space was left to turn.
+Then, as before I told, I was dispatch'd
+To work his rescue, and no way remain'd
+Save this which I have ta'en.  I have display'd
+Before him all the regions of the bad;
+And purpose now those spirits to display,
+That under thy command are purg'd from sin.
+How I have brought him would be long to say.
+From high descends the virtue, by whose aid
+I to thy sight and hearing him have led.
+Now may our coming please thee.  In the search
+Of liberty he journeys: that how dear
+They know, who for her sake have life refus'd.
+Thou knowest, to whom death for her was sweet
+In Utica, where thou didst leave those weeds,
+That in the last great day will shine so bright.
+For us the' eternal edicts are unmov'd:
+He breathes, and I am free of Minos' power,
+Abiding in that circle where the eyes
+Of thy chaste Marcia beam, who still in look
+Prays thee, O hallow'd spirit! to own her shine.
+Then by her love we' implore thee, let us pass
+Through thy sev'n regions; for which best thanks
+I for thy favour will to her return,
+If mention there below thou not disdain."
+
+"Marcia so pleasing in my sight was found,"
+He then to him rejoin'd, "while I was there,
+That all she ask'd me I was fain to grant.
+Now that beyond the' accursed stream she dwells,
+She may no longer move me, by that law,
+Which was ordain'd me, when I issued thence.
+Not so, if Dame from heaven, as thou sayst,
+Moves and directs thee; then no flattery needs.
+Enough for me that in her name thou ask.
+Go therefore now: and with a slender reed
+See that thou duly gird him, and his face
+Lave, till all sordid stain thou wipe from thence.
+For not with eye, by any cloud obscur'd,
+Would it be seemly before him to come,
+Who stands the foremost minister in heaven.
+This islet all around, there far beneath,
+Where the wave beats it, on the oozy bed
+Produces store of reeds. No other plant,
+Cover'd with leaves, or harden'd in its stalk,
+There lives, not bending to the water's sway.
+After, this way return not; but the sun
+Will show you, that now rises, where to take
+The mountain in its easiest ascent."
+
+He disappear'd; and I myself uprais'd
+Speechless, and to my guide retiring close,
+Toward him turn'd mine eyes.  He thus began;
+"My son! observant thou my steps pursue.
+We must retreat to rearward, for that way
+The champain to its low extreme declines."
+
+The dawn had chas'd the matin hour of prime,
+Which deaf before it, so that from afar
+I spy'd the trembling of the ocean stream.
+
+We travers'd the deserted plain, as one
+Who, wander'd from his track, thinks every step
+Trodden in vain till he regain the path.
+
+When we had come, where yet the tender dew
+Strove with the sun, and in a place, where fresh
+The wind breath'd o'er it, while it slowly dried;
+Both hands extended on the watery grass
+My master plac'd, in graceful act and kind.
+Whence I of his intent before appriz'd,
+Stretch'd out to him my cheeks suffus'd with tears.
+There to my visage he anew restor'd
+That hue, which the dun shades of hell conceal'd.
+
+Then on the solitary shore arriv'd,
+That never sailing on its waters saw
+Man, that could after measure back his course,
+He girt me in such manner as had pleas'd
+Him who instructed, and O, strange to tell!
+As he selected every humble plant,
+Wherever one was pluck'd, another there
+Resembling, straightway in its place arose.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO II
+
+Now had the sun to that horizon reach'd,
+That covers, with the most exalted point
+Of its meridian circle, Salem's walls,
+And night, that opposite to him her orb
+Sounds, from the stream of Ganges issued forth,
+Holding the scales, that from her hands are dropp'd
+When she reigns highest: so that where I was,
+Aurora's white and vermeil-tinctur'd cheek
+To orange turn'd as she in age increas'd.
+
+Meanwhile we linger'd by the water's brink,
+Like men, who, musing on their road, in thought
+Journey, while motionless the body rests.
+When lo! as near upon the hour of dawn,
+Through the thick vapours Mars with fiery beam
+Glares down in west, over the ocean floor;
+So seem'd, what once again I hope to view,
+A light so swiftly coming through the sea,
+No winged course might equal its career.
+From which when for a space I had withdrawn
+Thine eyes, to make inquiry of my guide,
+Again I look'd and saw it grown in size
+And brightness: thou on either side appear'd
+Something, but what I knew not of bright hue,
+And by degrees from underneath it came
+Another.  My preceptor silent yet
+Stood, while the brightness, that we first discern'd,
+Open'd the form of wings: then when he knew
+The pilot, cried aloud, "Down, down; bend low
+Thy knees; behold God's angel: fold thy hands:
+Now shalt thou see true Ministers indeed.
+
+"Lo how all human means he sets at naught!
+So that nor oar he needs, nor other sail
+Except his wings, between such distant shores.
+Lo how straight up to heaven he holds them rear'd,
+Winnowing the air with those eternal plumes,
+That not like mortal hairs fall off or change!"
+
+As more and more toward us came, more bright
+Appear'd the bird of God, nor could the eye
+Endure his splendor near: I mine bent down.
+He drove ashore in a small bark so swift
+And light, that in its course no wave it drank.
+The heav'nly steersman at the prow was seen,
+Visibly written blessed in his looks.
+
+Within a hundred spirits and more there sat.
+"In Exitu Israel de Aegypto;"
+All with one voice together sang, with what
+In the remainder of that hymn is writ.
+Then soon as with the sign of holy cross
+He bless'd them, they at once leap'd out on land,
+The swiftly as he came return'd. The crew,
+There left, appear'd astounded with the place,
+Gazing around as one who sees new sights.
+
+From every side the sun darted his beams,
+And with his arrowy radiance from mid heav'n
+Had chas'd the Capricorn, when that strange tribe
+Lifting their eyes towards us: "If ye know,
+Declare what path will Lead us to the mount."
+
+Them Virgil answer'd.  "Ye suppose perchance
+Us well acquainted with this place: but here,
+We, as yourselves, are strangers.  Not long erst
+We came, before you but a little space,
+By other road so rough and hard, that now
+The' ascent will seem to us as play."  The spirits,
+Who from my breathing had perceiv'd I liv'd,
+Grew pale with wonder.  As the multitude
+Flock round a herald, sent with olive branch,
+To hear what news he brings, and in their haste
+Tread one another down, e'en so at sight
+Of me those happy spirits were fix'd, each one
+Forgetful of its errand, to depart,
+Where cleans'd from sin, it might be made all fair.
+
+Then one I saw darting before the rest
+With such fond ardour to embrace me, I
+To do the like was mov'd.  O shadows vain
+Except in outward semblance! thrice my hands
+I clasp'd behind it, they as oft return'd
+Empty into my breast again.  Surprise
+I needs must think was painted in my looks,
+For that the shadow smil'd and backward drew.
+To follow it I hasten'd, but with voice
+Of sweetness it enjoin'd me to desist.
+Then who it was I knew, and pray'd of it,
+To talk with me, it would a little pause.
+It answered: "Thee as in my mortal frame
+I lov'd, so loos'd forth it I love thee still,
+And therefore pause; but why walkest thou here?"
+
+"Not without purpose once more to return,
+Thou find'st me, my Casella, where I am
+Journeying this way;" I said, "but how of thee
+Hath so much time been lost?"  He answer'd straight:
+"No outrage hath been done to me, if he
+Who when and whom he chooses takes, me oft
+This passage hath denied, since of just will
+His will he makes.  These three months past indeed,
+He, whose chose to enter, with free leave
+Hath taken; whence I wand'ring by the shore
+Where Tyber's wave grows salt, of him gain'd kind
+Admittance, at that river's mouth, tow'rd which
+His wings are pointed, for there always throng
+All such as not to Archeron descend."
+
+Then I: "If new laws have not quite destroy'd
+Memory and use of that sweet song of love,
+That while all my cares had power to 'swage;
+Please thee with it a little to console
+My spirit, that incumber'd with its frame,
+Travelling so far, of pain is overcome."
+
+"Love that discourses in my thoughts."  He then
+Began in such soft accents, that within
+The sweetness thrills me yet.  My gentle guide
+And all who came with him, so well were pleas'd,
+That seem'd naught else might in their thoughts have room.
+
+Fast fix'd in mute attention to his notes
+We stood, when lo! that old man venerable
+Exclaiming, "How is this, ye tardy spirits?
+What negligence detains you loit'ring here?
+Run to the mountain to cast off those scales,
+That from your eyes the sight of God conceal."
+
+As a wild flock of pigeons, to their food
+Collected, blade or tares, without their pride
+Accustom'd, and in still and quiet sort,
+If aught alarm them, suddenly desert
+Their meal, assail'd by more important care;
+So I that new-come troop beheld, the song
+Deserting, hasten to the mountain's side,
+As one who goes yet where he tends knows not.
+
+Nor with less hurried step did we depart.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO III
+
+Them sudden flight had scatter'd over the plain,
+Turn'd tow'rds the mountain, whither reason's voice
+Drives us; I to my faithful company
+Adhering, left it not.  For how of him
+Depriv'd, might I have sped, or who beside
+Would o'er the mountainous tract have led my steps
+He with the bitter pang of self-remorse
+Seem'd smitten.  O clear conscience and upright
+How doth a little fling wound thee sore!
+
+Soon as his feet desisted (slack'ning pace),
+From haste, that mars all decency of act,
+My mind, that in itself before was wrapt,
+Its thoughts expanded, as with joy restor'd:
+And full against the steep ascent I set
+My face, where highest to heav'n its top o'erflows.
+
+The sun, that flar'd behind, with ruddy beam
+Before my form was broken; for in me
+His rays resistance met.  I turn'd aside
+With fear of being left, when I beheld
+Only before myself the ground obscur'd.
+When thus my solace, turning him around,
+Bespake me kindly: "Why distrustest thou?
+Believ'st not I am with thee, thy sure guide?
+It now is evening there, where buried lies
+The body, in which I cast a shade, remov'd
+To Naples from Brundusium's wall.  Nor thou
+Marvel, if before me no shadow fall,
+More than that in the sky element
+One ray obstructs not other.  To endure
+Torments of heat and cold extreme, like frames
+That virtue hath dispos'd, which how it works
+Wills not to us should be reveal'd.  Insane
+Who hopes, our reason may that space explore,
+Which holds three persons in one substance knit.
+Seek not the wherefore, race of human kind;
+Could ye have seen the whole, no need had been
+For Mary to bring forth.  Moreover ye
+Have seen such men desiring fruitlessly;
+To whose desires repose would have been giv'n,
+That now but serve them for eternal grief.
+I speak of Plato, and the Stagyrite,
+And others many more."  And then he bent
+Downwards his forehead, and in troubled mood
+Broke off his speech.  Meanwhile we had arriv'd
+Far as the mountain's foot, and there the rock
+Found of so steep ascent, that nimblest steps
+To climb it had been vain.  The most remote
+Most wild untrodden path, in all the tract
+'Twixt Lerice and Turbia were to this
+A ladder easy' and open of access.
+
+"Who knows on which hand now the steep declines?"
+My master said and paus'd, "so that he may
+Ascend, who journeys without aid of wine?"
+And while with looks directed to the ground
+The meaning of the pathway he explor'd,
+And I gaz'd upward round the stony height,
+Of spirits, that toward us mov'd their steps,
+Yet moving seem'd not, they so slow approach'd.
+
+I thus my guide address'd: "Upraise thine eyes,
+Lo that way some, of whom thou may'st obtain
+Counsel, if of thyself thou find'st it not!"
+
+Straightway he look'd, and with free speech replied:
+"Let us tend thither: they but softly come.
+And thou be firm in hope, my son belov'd."
+
+Now was that people distant far in space
+A thousand paces behind ours, as much
+As at a throw the nervous arm could fling,
+When all drew backward on the messy crags
+Of the steep bank, and firmly stood unmov'd
+As one who walks in doubt might stand to look.
+
+"O spirits perfect!  O already chosen!"
+Virgil to them began, "by that blest peace,
+Which, as I deem, is for you all prepar'd,
+Instruct us where the mountain low declines,
+So that attempt to mount it be not vain.
+For who knows most, him loss of time most grieves."
+
+As sheep, that step from forth their fold, by one,
+Or pairs, or three at once; meanwhile the rest
+Stand fearfully, bending the eye and nose
+To ground, and what the foremost does, that do
+The others, gath'ring round her, if she stops,
+Simple and quiet, nor the cause discern;
+So saw I moving to advance the first,
+Who of that fortunate crew were at the head,
+Of modest mien and graceful in their gait.
+When they before me had beheld the light
+From my right side fall broken on the ground,
+So that the shadow reach'd the cave, they stopp'd
+And somewhat back retir'd: the same did all,
+Who follow'd, though unweeting of the cause.
+
+"Unask'd of you, yet freely I confess,
+This is a human body which ye see.
+That the sun's light is broken on the ground,
+Marvel not: but believe, that not without
+Virtue deriv'd from Heaven, we to climb
+Over this wall aspire."  So them bespake
+My master; and that virtuous tribe rejoin'd;
+"Turn, and before you there the entrance lies,"
+Making a signal to us with bent hands.
+
+Then of them one began.  "Whoe'er thou art,
+Who journey'st thus this way, thy visage turn,
+Think if me elsewhere thou hast ever seen."
+
+I tow'rds him turn'd, and with fix'd eye beheld.
+Comely, and fair, and gentle of aspect,
+He seem'd, but on one brow a gash was mark'd.
+
+When humbly I disclaim'd to have beheld
+Him ever: "Now behold!"  he said, and show'd
+High on his breast a wound: then smiling spake.
+
+"I am Manfredi, grandson to the Queen
+Costanza: whence I pray thee, when return'd,
+To my fair daughter go, the parent glad
+Of Aragonia and Sicilia's pride;
+And of the truth inform her, if of me
+Aught else be told.  When by two mortal blows
+My frame was shatter'd, I betook myself
+Weeping to him, who of free will forgives.
+My sins were horrible; but so wide arms
+Hath goodness infinite, that it receives
+All who turn to it.  Had this text divine
+Been of Cosenza's shepherd better scann'd,
+Who then by Clement on my hunt was set,
+Yet at the bridge's head my bones had lain,
+Near Benevento, by the heavy mole
+Protected; but the rain now drenches them,
+And the wind drives, out of the kingdom's bounds,
+Far as the stream of Verde, where, with lights
+Extinguish'd, he remov'd them from their bed.
+Yet by their curse we are not so destroy'd,
+But that the eternal love may turn, while hope
+Retains her verdant blossoms.  True it is,
+That such one as in contumacy dies
+Against the holy church, though he repent,
+Must wander thirty-fold for all the time
+In his presumption past; if such decree
+Be not by prayers of good men shorter made
+Look therefore if thou canst advance my bliss;
+Revealing to my good Costanza, how
+Thou hast beheld me, and beside the terms
+Laid on me of that interdict; for here
+By means of those below much profit comes."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO IV
+
+When by sensations of delight or pain,
+That any of our faculties hath seiz'd,
+Entire the soul collects herself, it seems
+She is intent upon that power alone,
+And thus the error is disprov'd which holds
+The soul not singly lighted in the breast.
+And therefore when as aught is heard or seen,
+That firmly keeps the soul toward it turn'd,
+Time passes, and a man perceives it not.
+For that, whereby he hearken, is one power,
+Another that, which the whole spirit hash;
+This is as it were bound, while that is free.
+
+This found I true by proof, hearing that spirit
+And wond'ring; for full fifty steps aloft
+The sun had measur'd unobserv'd of me,
+When we arriv'd where all with one accord
+The spirits shouted, "Here is what ye ask."
+
+A larger aperture ofttimes is stopp'd
+With forked stake of thorn by villager,
+When the ripe grape imbrowns, than was the path,
+By which my guide, and I behind him close,
+Ascended solitary, when that troop
+Departing left us.  On Sanleo's road
+Who journeys, or to Noli low descends,
+Or mounts Bismantua's height, must use his feet;
+But here a man had need to fly, I mean
+With the swift wing and plumes of high desire,
+Conducted by his aid, who gave me hope,
+And with light furnish'd to direct my way.
+
+We through the broken rock ascended, close
+Pent on each side, while underneath the ground
+Ask'd help of hands and feet.  When we arriv'd
+Near on the highest ridge of the steep bank,
+Where the plain level open'd I exclaim'd,
+"O master! say which way can we proceed?"
+
+He answer'd, "Let no step of thine recede.
+Behind me gain the mountain, till to us
+Some practis'd guide appear."  That eminence
+Was lofty that no eye might reach its point,
+And the side proudly rising, more than line
+From the mid quadrant to the centre drawn.
+I wearied thus began: "Parent belov'd!
+Turn, and behold how I remain alone,
+If thou stay not."--" My son!"  He straight reply'd,
+"Thus far put forth thy strength;" and to a track
+Pointed, that, on this side projecting, round
+Circles the hill.  His words so spurr'd me on,
+That I behind him clamb'ring, forc'd myself,
+Till my feet press'd the circuit plain beneath.
+There both together seated, turn'd we round
+To eastward, whence was our ascent: and oft
+Many beside have with delight look'd back.
+
+First on the nether shores I turn'd my eyes,
+Then rais'd them to the sun, and wond'ring mark'd
+That from the left it smote us.  Soon perceiv'd
+That Poet sage now at the car of light
+Amaz'd I stood, where 'twixt us and the north
+Its course it enter'd.  Whence he thus to me:
+"Were Leda's offspring now in company
+Of that broad mirror, that high up and low
+Imparts his light beneath, thou might'st behold
+The ruddy zodiac nearer to the bears
+Wheel, if its ancient course it not forsook.
+How that may be if thou would'st think; within
+Pond'ring, imagine Sion with this mount
+Plac'd on the earth, so that to both be one
+Horizon, and two hemispheres apart,
+Where lies the path that Phaeton ill knew
+To guide his erring chariot: thou wilt see
+How of necessity by this on one
+He passes, while by that on the' other side,
+If with clear view shine intellect attend."
+
+"Of truth, kind teacher!"  I exclaim'd, "so clear
+Aught saw I never, as I now discern
+Where seem'd my ken to fail, that the mid orb
+Of the supernal motion (which in terms
+Of art is called the Equator, and remains
+Ever between the sun and winter) for the cause
+Thou hast assign'd, from hence toward the north
+Departs, when those who in the Hebrew land
+Inhabit, see it tow'rds the warmer part.
+But if it please thee, I would gladly know,
+How far we have to journey: for the hill
+Mounts higher, than this sight of mine can mount."
+
+He thus to me: "Such is this steep ascent,
+That it is ever difficult at first,
+But, more a man proceeds, less evil grows.
+When pleasant it shall seem to thee, so much
+That upward going shall be easy to thee.
+As in a vessel to go down the tide,
+Then of this path thou wilt have reach'd the end.
+There hope to rest thee from thy toil.  No more
+I answer, and thus far for certain know."
+As he his words had spoken, near to us
+A voice there sounded: "Yet ye first perchance
+May to repose you by constraint be led."
+At sound thereof each turn'd, and on the left
+A huge stone we beheld, of which nor I
+Nor he before was ware.  Thither we drew,
+find there were some, who in the shady place
+Behind the rock were standing, as a man
+Thru' idleness might stand.  Among them one,
+Who seem'd to me much wearied, sat him down,
+And with his arms did fold his knees about,
+Holding his face between them downward bent.
+
+"Sweet Sir!"  I cry'd, "behold that man, who shows
+Himself more idle, than if laziness
+Were sister to him."  Straight he turn'd to us,
+And, o'er the thigh lifting his face, observ'd,
+Then in these accents spake: "Up then, proceed
+Thou valiant one."  Straight who it was I knew;
+Nor could the pain I felt (for want of breath
+Still somewhat urg'd me) hinder my approach.
+And when I came to him, he scarce his head
+Uplifted, saying "Well hast thou discern'd,
+How from the left the sun his chariot leads."
+
+His lazy acts and broken words my lips
+To laughter somewhat mov'd; when I began:
+"Belacqua, now for thee I grieve no more.
+But tell, why thou art seated upright there?
+Waitest thou escort to conduct thee hence?
+Or blame I only shine accustom'd ways?"
+Then he: "My brother, of what use to mount,
+When to my suffering would not let me pass
+The bird of God, who at the portal sits?
+Behooves so long that heav'n first bear me round
+Without its limits, as in life it bore,
+Because I to the end repentant Sighs
+Delay'd, if prayer do not aid me first,
+That riseth up from heart which lives in grace.
+What other kind avails, not heard in heaven?"'
+
+Before me now the Poet up the mount
+Ascending, cried: "Haste thee, for see the sun
+Has touch'd the point meridian, and the night
+Now covers with her foot Marocco's shore."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO V
+
+Now had I left those spirits, and pursued
+The steps of my Conductor, when beheld
+Pointing the finger at me one exclaim'd:
+"See how it seems as if the light not shone
+From the left hand of him beneath, and he,
+As living, seems to be led on."  Mine eyes
+I at that sound reverting, saw them gaze
+Through wonder first at me, and then at me
+And the light broken underneath, by turns.
+"Why are thy thoughts thus riveted?"  my guide
+Exclaim'd, "that thou hast slack'd thy pace? or how
+Imports it thee, what thing is whisper'd here?
+Come after me, and to their babblings leave
+The crowd. Be as a tower, that, firmly set,
+Shakes not its top for any blast that blows!
+He, in whose bosom thought on thought shoots out,
+Still of his aim is wide, in that the one
+Sicklies and wastes to nought the other's strength."
+
+What other could I answer save "I come?"
+I said it, somewhat with that colour ting'd
+Which ofttimes pardon meriteth for man.
+
+Meanwhile traverse along the hill there came,
+A little way before us, some who sang
+The "Miserere" in responsive Strains.
+When they perceiv'd that through my body I
+Gave way not for the rays to pass, their song
+Straight to a long and hoarse exclaim they chang'd;
+And two of them, in guise of messengers,
+Ran on to meet us, and inquiring ask'd:
+"Of your condition we would gladly learn."
+
+To them my guide.  "Ye may return, and bear
+Tidings to them who sent you, that his frame
+Is real flesh.  If, as I deem, to view
+His shade they paus'd, enough is answer'd them.
+Him let them honour, they may prize him well."
+
+Ne'er saw I fiery vapours with such speed
+Cut through the serene air at fall of night,
+Nor August's clouds athwart the setting sun,
+That upward these did not in shorter space
+Return; and, there arriving, with the rest
+Wheel back on us, as with loose rein a troop.
+
+"Many," exclaim'd the bard, "are these, who throng
+Around us: to petition thee they come.
+Go therefore on, and listen as thou go'st."
+
+"O spirit! who go'st on to blessedness
+With the same limbs, that clad thee at thy birth."
+Shouting they came, "a little rest thy step.
+Look if thou any one amongst our tribe
+Hast e'er beheld, that tidings of him there
+Thou mayst report.  Ah, wherefore go'st thou on?
+Ah wherefore tarriest thou not?  We all
+By violence died, and to our latest hour
+Were sinners, but then warn'd by light from heav'n,
+So that, repenting and forgiving, we
+Did issue out of life at peace with God,
+Who with desire to see him fills our heart."
+
+Then I: "The visages of all I scan
+Yet none of ye remember.  But if aught,
+That I can do, may please you, gentle spirits!
+Speak; and I will perform it, by that peace,
+Which on the steps of guide so excellent
+Following from world to world intent I seek."
+
+In answer he began: "None here distrusts
+Thy kindness, though not promis'd with an oath;
+So as the will fail not for want of power.
+Whence I, who sole before the others speak,
+Entreat thee, if thou ever see that land,
+Which lies between Romagna and the realm
+Of Charles, that of thy courtesy thou pray
+Those who inhabit Fano, that for me
+Their adorations duly be put up,
+By which I may purge off my grievous sins.
+From thence I came.  But the deep passages,
+Whence issued out the blood wherein I dwelt,
+Upon my bosom in Antenor's land
+Were made, where to be more secure I thought.
+The author of the deed was Este's prince,
+Who, more than right could warrant, with his wrath
+Pursued me.  Had I towards Mira fled,
+When overta'en at Oriaco, still
+Might I have breath'd. But to the marsh I sped,
+And in the mire and rushes tangled there
+Fell, and beheld my life-blood float the plain."
+
+Then said another: "Ah! so may the wish,
+That takes thee o'er the mountain, be fulfill'd,
+As thou shalt graciously give aid to mine.
+Of Montefeltro I; Buonconte I:
+Giovanna nor none else have care for me,
+Sorrowing with these I therefore go."  I thus:
+"From Campaldino's field what force or chance
+Drew thee, that ne'er thy sepulture was known?"
+
+"Oh!"  answer'd he, "at Casentino's foot
+A stream there courseth, nam'd Archiano, sprung
+In Apennine above the Hermit's seat.
+E'en where its name is cancel'd, there came I,
+Pierc'd in the heart, fleeing away on foot,
+And bloodying the plain.  Here sight and speech
+Fail'd me, and finishing with Mary's name
+I fell, and tenantless my flesh remain'd.
+I will report the truth; which thou again
+Tell to the living.  Me God's angel took,
+Whilst he of hell exclaim'd: "O thou from heav'n!
+Say wherefore hast thou robb'd me?  Thou of him
+Th' eternal portion bear'st with thee away
+For one poor tear that he deprives me of.
+But of the other, other rule I make."
+
+"Thou knowest how in the atmosphere collects
+That vapour dank, returning into water,
+Soon as it mounts where cold condenses it.
+That evil will, which in his intellect
+Still follows evil, came, and rais'd the wind
+And smoky mist, by virtue of the power
+Given by his nature.  Thence the valley, soon
+As day was spent, he cover'd o'er with cloud
+From Pratomagno to the mountain range,
+And stretch'd the sky above, so that the air
+Impregnate chang'd to water.  Fell the rain,
+And to the fosses came all that the land
+Contain'd not; and, as mightiest streams are wont,
+To the great river with such headlong sweep
+Rush'd, that nought stay'd its course.  My stiffen'd frame
+Laid at his mouth the fell Archiano found,
+And dash'd it into Arno, from my breast
+Loos'ning the cross, that of myself I made
+When overcome with pain.  He hurl'd me on,
+Along the banks and bottom of his course;
+Then in his muddy spoils encircling wrapt."
+
+"Ah! when thou to the world shalt be return'd,
+And rested after thy long road," so spake
+Next the third spirit; "then remember me.
+I once was Pia.  Sienna gave me life,
+Maremma took it from me.  That he knows,
+Who me with jewell'd ring had first espous'd."
+
+
+CANTO VI
+
+When from their game of dice men separate,
+He, who hath lost, remains in sadness fix'd,
+Revolving in his mind, what luckless throws
+He cast: but meanwhile all the company
+Go with the other; one before him runs,
+And one behind his mantle twitches, one
+Fast by his side bids him remember him.
+He stops not; and each one, to whom his hand
+Is stretch'd, well knows he bids him stand aside;
+And thus he from the press defends himself.
+E'en such was I in that close-crowding throng;
+And turning so my face around to all,
+And promising, I 'scap'd from it with pains.
+
+Here of Arezzo him I saw, who fell
+By Ghino's cruel arm; and him beside,
+Who in his chase was swallow'd by the stream.
+Here Frederic Novello, with his hand
+Stretch'd forth, entreated; and of Pisa he,
+Who put the good Marzuco to such proof
+Of constancy.  Count Orso I beheld;
+And from its frame a soul dismiss'd for spite
+And envy, as it said, but for no crime:
+I speak of Peter de la Brosse; and here,
+While she yet lives, that Lady of Brabant
+Let her beware; lest for so false a deed
+She herd with worse than these. When I was freed
+From all those spirits, who pray'd for others' prayers
+To hasten on their state of blessedness;
+Straight I began: "O thou, my luminary!
+It seems expressly in thy text denied,
+That heaven's supreme decree can never bend
+To supplication; yet with this design
+Do these entreat.  Can then their hope be vain,
+Or is thy saying not to me reveal'd?"
+
+He thus to me: "Both what I write is plain,
+And these deceiv'd not in their hope, if well
+Thy mind consider, that the sacred height
+Of judgment doth not stoop, because love's flame
+In a short moment all fulfils, which he
+Who sojourns here, in right should satisfy.
+Besides, when I this point concluded thus,
+By praying no defect could be supplied;
+Because the pray'r had none access to God.
+Yet in this deep suspicion rest thou not
+Contented unless she assure thee so,
+Who betwixt truth and mind infuses light.
+I know not if thou take me right; I mean
+Beatrice.  Her thou shalt behold above,
+Upon this mountain's crown, fair seat of joy."
+
+Then I: "Sir! let us mend our speed; for now
+I tire not as before; and lo! the hill
+Stretches its shadow far."  He answer'd thus:
+"Our progress with this day shall be as much
+As we may now dispatch; but otherwise
+Than thou supposest is the truth.  For there
+Thou canst not be, ere thou once more behold
+Him back returning, who behind the steep
+Is now so hidden, that as erst his beam
+Thou dost not break.  But lo! a spirit there
+Stands solitary, and toward us looks:
+It will instruct us in the speediest way."
+
+We soon approach'd it.  O thou Lombard spirit!
+How didst thou stand, in high abstracted mood,
+Scarce moving with slow dignity thine eyes!
+It spoke not aught, but let us onward pass,
+Eyeing us as a lion on his watch.
+But Virgil with entreaty mild advanc'd,
+Requesting it to show the best ascent.
+It answer to his question none return'd,
+But of our country and our kind of life
+Demanded.  When my courteous guide began,
+"Mantua," the solitary shadow quick
+Rose towards us from the place in which it stood,
+And cry'd, "Mantuan! I am thy countryman
+Sordello."  Each the other then embrac'd.
+
+Ah slavish Italy! thou inn of grief,
+Vessel without a pilot in loud storm,
+Lady no longer of fair provinces,
+But brothel-house impure! this gentle spirit,
+Ev'n from the Pleasant sound of his dear land
+Was prompt to greet a fellow citizen
+With such glad cheer; while now thy living ones
+In thee abide not without war; and one
+Malicious gnaws another, ay of those
+Whom the same wall and the same moat contains,
+Seek, wretched one! around thy sea-coasts wide;
+Then homeward to thy bosom turn, and mark
+If any part of the sweet peace enjoy.
+What boots it, that thy reins Justinian's hand
+Befitted, if thy saddle be unpress'd?
+Nought doth he now but aggravate thy shame.
+Ah people! thou obedient still shouldst live,
+And in the saddle let thy Caesar sit,
+If well thou marked'st that which God commands.
+
+Look how that beast to felness hath relaps'd
+From having lost correction of the spur,
+Since to the bridle thou hast set thine hand,
+O German Albert! who abandon'st her,
+That is grown savage and unmanageable,
+When thou should'st clasp her flanks with forked heels.
+Just judgment from the stars fall on thy blood!
+And be it strange and manifest to all!
+Such as may strike thy successor with dread!
+For that thy sire and thou have suffer'd thus,
+Through greediness of yonder realms detain'd,
+The garden of the empire to run waste.
+Come see the Capulets and Montagues,
+The Philippeschi and Monaldi! man
+Who car'st for nought! those sunk in grief, and these
+With dire suspicion rack'd. Come, cruel one!
+Come and behold the' oppression of the nobles,
+And mark their injuries: and thou mayst see.
+What safety Santafiore can supply.
+Come and behold thy Rome, who calls on thee,
+Desolate widow! day and night with moans:
+"My Caesar, why dost thou desert my side?"
+Come and behold what love among thy people:
+And if no pity touches thee for us,
+Come and blush for thine own report.  For me,
+If it be lawful, O Almighty Power,
+Who wast in earth for our sakes crucified!
+Are thy just eyes turn'd elsewhere? or is this
+A preparation in the wond'rous depth
+Of thy sage counsel made, for some good end,
+Entirely from our reach of thought cut off?
+So are the' Italian cities all o'erthrong'd
+With tyrants, and a great Marcellus made
+Of every petty factious villager.
+
+My Florence! thou mayst well remain unmov'd
+At this digression, which affects not thee:
+Thanks to thy people, who so wisely speed.
+Many have justice in their heart, that long
+Waiteth for counsel to direct the bow,
+Or ere it dart unto its aim: but shine
+Have it on their lip's edge.  Many refuse
+To bear the common burdens: readier thine
+Answer uneall'd, and cry, "Behold I stoop!"
+
+Make thyself glad, for thou hast reason now,
+Thou wealthy! thou at peace! thou wisdom-fraught!
+Facts best witness if I speak the truth.
+Athens and Lacedaemon, who of old
+Enacted laws, for civil arts renown'd,
+Made little progress in improving life
+Tow'rds thee, who usest such nice subtlety,
+That to the middle of November scarce
+Reaches the thread thou in October weav'st.
+How many times, within thy memory,
+Customs, and laws, and coins, and offices
+Have been by thee renew'd, and people chang'd!
+
+If thou remember'st well and can'st see clear,
+Thou wilt perceive thyself like a sick wretch,
+Who finds no rest upon her down, but oft
+Shifting her side, short respite seeks from pain.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO VII
+
+After their courteous greetings joyfully
+Sev'n times exchang'd, Sordello backward drew
+Exclaiming, "Who are ye?"  "Before this mount
+By spirits worthy of ascent to God
+Was sought, my bones had by Octavius' care
+Been buried.  I am Virgil, for no sin
+Depriv'd of heav'n, except for lack of faith."
+
+So answer'd him in few my gentle guide.
+
+As one, who aught before him suddenly
+Beholding, whence his wonder riseth, cries
+"It is yet is not," wav'ring in belief;
+Such he appear'd; then downward bent his eyes,
+And drawing near with reverential step,
+Caught him, where of mean estate might clasp
+His lord.  "Glory of Latium!" he exclaim'd,
+"In whom our tongue its utmost power display'd!
+Boast of my honor'd birth-place! what desert
+Of mine, what favour rather undeserv'd,
+Shows thee to me?  If I to hear that voice
+Am worthy, say if from below thou com'st
+And from what cloister's pale?"--"Through every orb
+Of that sad region," he reply'd, "thus far
+Am I arriv'd, by heav'nly influence led
+And with such aid I come.  There is a place
+There underneath, not made by torments sad,
+But by dun shades alone; where mourning's voice
+Sounds not of anguish sharp, but breathes in sighs.
+
+"There I with little innocents abide,
+Who by death's fangs were bitten, ere exempt
+From human taint.  There I with those abide,
+Who the three holy virtues put not on,
+But understood the rest, and without blame
+Follow'd them all.  But if thou know'st and canst,
+Direct us, how we soonest may arrive,
+Where Purgatory its true beginning takes."
+
+He answer'd thus: "We have no certain place
+Assign'd us: upwards I may go or round,
+Far as I can, I join thee for thy guide.
+But thou beholdest now how day declines:
+And upwards to proceed by night, our power
+Excels: therefore it may be well to choose
+A place of pleasant sojourn.  To the right
+Some spirits sit apart retir'd.  If thou
+Consentest, I to these will lead thy steps:
+And thou wilt know them, not without delight."
+
+"How chances this?"  was answer'd; "who so wish'd
+To ascend by night, would he be thence debarr'd
+By other, or through his own weakness fail?"
+
+The good Sordello then, along the ground
+Trailing his finger, spoke: "Only this line
+Thou shalt not overpass, soon as the sun
+Hath disappear'd; not that aught else impedes
+Thy going upwards, save the shades of night.
+These with the wont of power perplex the will.
+With them thou haply mightst return beneath,
+Or to and fro around the mountain's side
+Wander, while day is in the horizon shut."
+
+My master straight, as wond'ring at his speech,
+Exclaim'd: "Then lead us quickly, where thou sayst,
+That, while we stay, we may enjoy delight."
+
+A little space we were remov'd from thence,
+When I perceiv'd the mountain hollow'd out.
+Ev'n as large valleys hollow'd out on earth,
+
+"That way," the' escorting spirit cried, "we go,
+Where in a bosom the high bank recedes:
+And thou await renewal of the day."
+
+Betwixt the steep and plain a crooked path
+Led us traverse into the ridge's side,
+Where more than half the sloping edge expires.
+Refulgent gold, and silver thrice refin'd,
+And scarlet grain and ceruse, Indian wood
+Of lucid dye serene, fresh emeralds
+But newly broken, by the herbs and flowers
+Plac'd in that fair recess, in color all
+Had been surpass'd, as great surpasses less.
+Nor nature only there lavish'd her hues,
+But of the sweetness of a thousand smells
+A rare and undistinguish'd fragrance made.
+
+"Salve Regina," on the grass and flowers
+Here chanting I beheld those spirits sit
+Who not beyond the valley could be seen.
+
+"Before the west'ring sun sink to his bed,"
+Began the Mantuan, who our steps had turn'd,
+
+"'Mid those desires not that I lead ye on.
+For from this eminence ye shall discern
+Better the acts and visages of all,
+Than in the nether vale among them mix'd.
+He, who sits high above the rest, and seems
+To have neglected that he should have done,
+And to the others' song moves not his lip,
+The Emperor Rodolph call, who might have heal'd
+The wounds whereof fair Italy hath died,
+So that by others she revives but slowly,
+He, who with kindly visage comforts him,
+Sway'd in that country, where the water springs,
+That Moldaw's river to the Elbe, and Elbe
+Rolls to the ocean: Ottocar his name:
+Who in his swaddling clothes was of more worth
+Than Winceslaus his son, a bearded man,
+Pamper'd with rank luxuriousness and ease.
+And that one with the nose depress, who close
+In counsel seems with him of gentle look,
+Flying expir'd, with'ring the lily's flower.
+Look there how he doth knock against his breast!
+The other ye behold, who for his cheek
+Makes of one hand a couch, with frequent sighs.
+They are the father and the father-in-law
+Of Gallia's bane: his vicious life they know
+And foul; thence comes the grief that rends them thus.
+
+"He, so robust of limb, who measure keeps
+In song, with him of feature prominent,
+With ev'ry virtue bore his girdle brac'd.
+And if that stripling who behinds him sits,
+King after him had liv'd, his virtue then
+From vessel to like vessel had been pour'd;
+Which may not of the other heirs be said.
+By James and Frederick his realms are held;
+Neither the better heritage obtains.
+Rarely into the branches of the tree
+Doth human worth mount up; and so ordains
+He who bestows it, that as his free gift
+It may be call'd.  To Charles my words apply
+No less than to his brother in the song;
+Which Pouille and Provence now with grief confess.
+So much that plant degenerates from its seed,
+As more than Beatrice and Margaret
+Costanza still boasts of her valorous spouse.
+
+"Behold the king of simple life and plain,
+Harry of England, sitting there alone:
+He through his branches better issue spreads.
+
+"That one, who on the ground beneath the rest
+Sits lowest, yet his gaze directs aloft,
+Us William, that brave Marquis, for whose cause
+The deed of Alexandria and his war
+Makes Conferrat and Canavese weep."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO VIII
+
+Now was the hour that wakens fond desire
+In men at sea, and melts their thoughtful heart,
+Who in the morn have bid sweet friends farewell,
+And pilgrim newly on his road with love
+Thrills, if he hear the vesper bell from far,
+That seems to mourn for the expiring day:
+When I, no longer taking heed to hear
+Began, with wonder, from those spirits to mark
+One risen from its seat, which with its hand
+Audience implor'd. Both palms it join'd and rais'd,
+Fixing its steadfast gaze towards the east,
+As telling God, "I care for naught beside."
+
+"Te Lucis Ante," so devoutly then
+Came from its lip, and in so soft a strain,
+That all my sense in ravishment was lost.
+And the rest after, softly and devout,
+Follow'd through all the hymn, with upward gaze
+Directed to the bright supernal wheels.
+
+Here, reader! for the truth makes thine eyes keen:
+For of so subtle texture is this veil,
+That thou with ease mayst pass it through unmark'd.
+
+I saw that gentle band silently next
+Look up, as if in expectation held,
+Pale and in lowly guise; and from on high
+I saw forth issuing descend beneath
+Two angels with two flame-illumin'd swords,
+Broken and mutilated at their points.
+Green as the tender leaves but newly born,
+Their vesture was, the which by wings as green
+Beaten, they drew behind them, fann'd in air.
+A little over us one took his stand,
+The other lighted on the' Opposing hill,
+So that the troop were in the midst contain'd.
+
+Well I descried the whiteness on their heads;
+But in their visages the dazzled eye
+Was lost, as faculty that by too much
+Is overpower'd.  "From Mary's bosom both
+Are come," exclaim'd Sordello, "as a guard
+Over the vale, ganst him, who hither tends,
+The serpent."  Whence, not knowing by which path
+He came, I turn'd me round, and closely press'd,
+All frozen, to my leader's trusted side.
+
+Sordello paus'd not: "To the valley now
+(For it is time) let us descend; and hold
+Converse with those great shadows: haply much
+Their sight may please ye."  Only three steps down
+Methinks I measur'd, ere I was beneath,
+And noted one who look'd as with desire
+To know me.  Time was now that air arrow dim;
+Yet not so dim, that 'twixt his eyes and mine
+It clear'd not up what was conceal'd before.
+Mutually tow'rds each other we advanc'd.
+Nino, thou courteous judge! what joy I felt,
+When I perceiv'd thou wert not with the bad!
+
+No salutation kind on either part
+Was left unsaid.  He then inquir'd: "How long
+Since thou arrived'st at the mountain's foot,
+Over the distant waves?"--"O!" answer'd I,
+"Through the sad seats of woe this morn I came,
+And still in my first life, thus journeying on,
+The other strive to gain."  Soon as they heard
+My words, he and Sordello backward drew,
+As suddenly amaz'd.  To Virgil one,
+The other to a spirit turn'd, who near
+Was seated, crying: "Conrad! up with speed:
+Come, see what of his grace high God hath will'd."
+Then turning round to me: "By that rare mark
+Of honour which thou ow'st to him, who hides
+So deeply his first cause, it hath no ford,
+When thou shalt be beyond the vast of waves.
+Tell my Giovanna, that for me she call
+There, where reply to innocence is made.
+Her mother, I believe, loves me no more;
+Since she has chang'd the white and wimpled folds,
+Which she is doom'd once more with grief to wish.
+By her it easily may be perceiv'd,
+How long in women lasts the flame of love,
+If sight and touch do not relume it oft.
+For her so fair a burial will not make
+The viper which calls Milan to the field,
+As had been made by shrill Gallura's bird."
+
+He spoke, and in his visage took the stamp
+Of that right seal, which with due temperature
+Glows in the bosom.  My insatiate eyes
+Meanwhile to heav'n had travel'd, even there
+Where the bright stars are slowest, as a wheel
+Nearest the axle; when my guide inquir'd:
+"What there aloft, my son, has caught thy gaze?"
+
+I answer'd: "The three torches, with which here
+The pole is all on fire."  He then to me:
+"The four resplendent stars, thou saw'st this morn
+Are there beneath, and these ris'n in their stead."
+
+While yet he spoke.  Sordello to himself
+Drew him, and cry'd: "Lo there our enemy!"
+And with his hand pointed that way to look.
+
+Along the side, where barrier none arose
+Around the little vale, a serpent lay,
+Such haply as gave Eve the bitter food.
+Between the grass and flowers, the evil snake
+Came on, reverting oft his lifted head;
+And, as a beast that smoothes its polish'd coat,
+Licking his hack.  I saw not, nor can tell,
+How those celestial falcons from their seat
+Mov'd, but in motion each one well descried,
+Hearing the air cut by their verdant plumes.
+The serpent fled; and to their stations back
+The angels up return'd with equal flight.
+
+The Spirit (who to Nino, when he call'd,
+Had come), from viewing me with fixed ken,
+Through all that conflict, loosen'd not his sight.
+
+"So may the lamp, which leads thee up on high,
+Find, in thy destin'd lot, of wax so much,
+As may suffice thee to the enamel's height."
+It thus began: "If any certain news
+Of Valdimagra and the neighbour part
+Thou know'st, tell me, who once was mighty there
+They call'd me Conrad Malaspina, not
+That old one, but from him I sprang.  The love
+I bore my people is now here refin'd."
+
+"In your dominions," I answer'd, "ne'er was I.
+But through all Europe where do those men dwell,
+To whom their glory is not manifest?
+The fame, that honours your illustrious house,
+Proclaims the nobles and proclaims the land;
+So that he knows it who was never there.
+I swear to you, so may my upward route
+Prosper! your honour'd nation not impairs
+The value of her coffer and her sword.
+Nature and use give her such privilege,
+That while the world is twisted from his course
+By a bad head, she only walks aright,
+And has the evil way in scorn."  He then:
+"Now pass thee on: sev'n times the tired sun
+Revisits not the couch, which with four feet
+The forked Aries covers, ere that kind
+Opinion shall be nail'd into thy brain
+With stronger nails than other's speech can drive,
+If the sure course of judgment be not stay'd."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO IX
+
+Now the fair consort of Tithonus old,
+Arisen from her mate's beloved arms,
+Look'd palely o'er the eastern cliff: her brow,
+Lucent with jewels, glitter'd, set in sign
+Of that chill animal, who with his train
+Smites fearful nations: and where then we were,
+Two steps of her ascent the night had past,
+And now the third was closing up its wing,
+When I, who had so much of Adam with me,
+Sank down upon the grass, o'ercome with sleep,
+There where all five were seated.  In that hour,
+When near the dawn the swallow her sad lay,
+Rememb'ring haply ancient grief, renews,
+And with our minds more wand'rers from the flesh,
+And less by thought restrain'd are, as 't were, full
+Of holy divination in their dreams,
+Then in a vision did I seem to view
+A golden-feather'd eagle in the sky,
+With open wings, and hov'ring for descent,
+And I was in that place, methought, from whence
+Young Ganymede, from his associates 'reft,
+Was snatch'd aloft to the high consistory.
+"Perhaps," thought I within me, "here alone
+He strikes his quarry, and elsewhere disdains
+To pounce upon the prey."  Therewith, it seem'd,
+A little wheeling in his airy tour
+Terrible as the lightning rush'd he down,
+And snatch'd me upward even to the fire.
+
+There both, I thought, the eagle and myself
+Did burn; and so intense th' imagin'd flames,
+That needs my sleep was broken off.  As erst
+Achilles shook himself, and round him roll'd
+His waken'd eyeballs wond'ring where he was,
+Whenas his mother had from Chiron fled
+To Scyros, with him sleeping in her arms;
+E'en thus I shook me, soon as from my face
+The slumber parted, turning deadly pale,
+Like one ice-struck with dread.  Solo at my side
+My comfort stood: and the bright sun was now
+More than two hours aloft: and to the sea
+My looks were turn'd.  "Fear not," my master cried,
+"Assur'd we are at happy point.  Thy strength
+Shrink not, but rise dilated.  Thou art come
+To Purgatory now.  Lo! there the cliff
+That circling bounds it!  Lo! the entrance there,
+Where it doth seem disparted! re the dawn
+Usher'd the daylight, when thy wearied soul
+Slept in thee, o'er the flowery vale beneath
+A lady came, and thus bespake me: "I
+Am Lucia.  Suffer me to take this man,
+Who slumbers.  Easier so his way shall speed."
+Sordello and the other gentle shapes
+Tarrying, she bare thee up: and, as day shone,
+This summit reach'd: and I pursued her steps.
+Here did she place thee.  First her lovely eyes
+That open entrance show'd me; then at once
+She vanish'd with thy sleep.  Like one, whose doubts
+Are chas'd by certainty, and terror turn'd
+To comfort on discovery of the truth,
+Such was the change in me: and as my guide
+Beheld me fearless, up along the cliff
+He mov'd, and I behind him, towards the height.
+
+Reader! thou markest how my theme doth rise,
+Nor wonder therefore, if more artfully
+I prop the structure! nearer now we drew,
+Arriv'd' whence in that part, where first a breach
+As of a wall appear'd, I could descry
+A portal, and three steps beneath, that led
+For inlet there, of different colour each,
+And one who watch'd, but spake not yet a word.
+As more and more mine eye did stretch its view,
+I mark'd him seated on the highest step,
+In visage such, as past my power to bear.
+
+Grasp'd in his hand a naked sword, glanc'd back
+The rays so toward me, that I oft in vain
+My sight directed.  "Speak from whence ye stand:"
+He cried: "What would ye?  Where is your escort?
+Take heed your coming upward harm ye not."
+
+"A heavenly dame, not skilless of these things,"
+Replied the' instructor, "told us, even now,
+"Pass that way: here the gate is." --"And may she
+Befriending prosper your ascent," resum'd
+The courteous keeper of the gate: "Come then
+Before our steps."  We straightway thither came.
+
+The lowest stair was marble white so smooth
+And polish'd, that therein my mirror'd form
+Distinct I saw.  The next of hue more dark
+Than sablest grain, a rough and singed block,
+Crack'd lengthwise and across.  The third, that lay
+Massy above, seem'd porphyry, that flam'd
+Red as the life-blood spouting from a vein.
+On this God's angel either foot sustain'd,
+Upon the threshold seated, which appear'd
+A rock of diamond.  Up the trinal steps
+My leader cheerily drew me.  "Ask," said he,
+
+"With humble heart, that he unbar the bolt."
+
+Piously at his holy feet devolv'd
+I cast me, praying him for pity's sake
+That he would open to me: but first fell
+Thrice on my bosom prostrate.  Seven times
+The letter, that denotes the inward stain,
+He on my forehead with the blunted point
+Of his drawn sword inscrib'd.  And "Look," he cried,
+"When enter'd, that thou wash these scars away."
+
+Ashes, or earth ta'en dry out of the ground,
+Were of one colour with the robe he wore.
+From underneath that vestment forth he drew
+Two keys of metal twain: the one was gold,
+Its fellow silver.  With the pallid first,
+And next the burnish'd, he so ply'd the gate,
+As to content me well.  "Whenever one
+Faileth of these, that in the keyhole straight
+It turn not, to this alley then expect
+Access in vain."  Such were the words he spake.
+"One is more precious: but the other needs
+Skill and sagacity, large share of each,
+Ere its good task to disengage the knot
+Be worthily perform'd.  From Peter these
+I hold, of him instructed, that I err
+Rather in opening than in keeping fast;
+So but the suppliant at my feet implore."
+
+Then of that hallow'd gate he thrust the door,
+Exclaiming, "Enter, but this warning hear:
+He forth again departs who looks behind."
+
+As in the hinges of that sacred ward
+The swivels turn'd, sonorous metal strong,
+Harsh was the grating; nor so surlily
+Roar'd the Tarpeian, when by force bereft
+Of good Metellus, thenceforth from his loss
+To leanness doom'd.  Attentively I turn'd,
+List'ning the thunder, that first issued forth;
+And "We praise thee, O God," methought I heard
+In accents blended with sweet melody.
+The strains came o'er mine ear, e'en as the sound
+Of choral voices, that in solemn chant
+With organ mingle, and, now high and clear,
+Come swelling, now float indistinct away.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO X
+
+When we had passed the threshold of the gate
+(Which the soul's ill affection doth disuse,
+Making the crooked seem the straighter path),
+I heard its closing sound.  Had mine eyes turn'd,
+For that offence what plea might have avail'd?
+
+We mounted up the riven rock, that wound
+On either side alternate, as the wave
+Flies and advances.  "Here some little art
+Behooves us," said my leader, "that our steps
+Observe the varying flexure of the path."
+
+Thus we so slowly sped, that with cleft orb
+The moon once more o'erhangs her wat'ry couch,
+Ere we that strait have threaded.  But when free
+We came and open, where the mount above
+One solid mass retires, I spent, with toil,
+And both, uncertain of the way, we stood,
+Upon a plain more lonesome, than the roads
+That traverse desert wilds.  From whence the brink
+Borders upon vacuity, to foot
+Of the steep bank, that rises still, the space
+Had measur'd thrice the stature of a man:
+And, distant as mine eye could wing its flight,
+To leftward now and now to right dispatch'd,
+That cornice equal in extent appear'd.
+
+Not yet our feet had on that summit mov'd,
+When I discover'd that the bank around,
+Whose proud uprising all ascent denied,
+Was marble white, and so exactly wrought
+With quaintest sculpture, that not there alone
+Had Polycletus, but e'en nature's self
+Been sham'd.  The angel who came down to earth
+With tidings of the peace so many years
+Wept for in vain, that op'd the heavenly gates
+From their long interdict, before us seem'd,
+In a sweet act, so sculptur'd to the life,
+He look'd no silent image. One had sworn
+He had said, "Hail!" for she was imag'd there,
+By whom the key did open to God's love,
+And in her act as sensibly impress
+That word, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord,"
+As figure seal'd on wax.  "Fix not thy mind
+On one place only," said the guide belov'd,
+Who had me near him on that part where lies
+The heart of man.  My sight forthwith I turn'd
+And mark'd, behind the virgin mother's form,
+Upon that side, where he, that mov'd me, stood,
+Another story graven on the rock.
+
+I passed athwart the bard, and drew me near,
+That it might stand more aptly for my view.
+There in the self-same marble were engrav'd
+The cart and kine, drawing the sacred ark,
+That from unbidden office awes mankind.
+Before it came much people; and the whole
+Parted in seven quires.  One sense cried, "Nay,"
+Another, "Yes, they sing."  Like doubt arose
+Betwixt the eye and smell, from the curl'd fume
+Of incense breathing up the well-wrought toil.
+Preceding the blest vessel, onward came
+With light dance leaping, girt in humble guise,
+Sweet Israel's harper: in that hap he seem'd
+Less and yet more than kingly.  Opposite,
+At a great palace, from the lattice forth
+Look'd Michol, like a lady full of scorn
+And sorrow.  To behold the tablet next,
+Which at the hack of Michol whitely shone,
+I mov'd me.  There was storied on the rock
+The' exalted glory of the Roman prince,
+Whose mighty worth mov'd Gregory to earn
+His mighty conquest, Trajan th' Emperor.
+A widow at his bridle stood, attir'd
+In tears and mourning.  Round about them troop'd
+Full throng of knights, and overhead in gold
+The eagles floated, struggling with the wind.
+
+The wretch appear'd amid all these to say:
+"Grant vengeance, sire! for, woe beshrew this heart
+My son is murder'd."  He replying seem'd;
+
+"Wait now till I return." And she, as one
+Made hasty by her grief; "O sire, if thou
+Dost not return?"--"Where I am, who then is,
+May right thee."--"What to thee is other's good,
+If thou neglect thy own?"--"Now comfort thee,"
+At length he answers.  "It beseemeth well
+My duty be perform'd, ere I move hence:
+So justice wills; and pity bids me stay."
+
+He, whose ken nothing new surveys, produc'd
+That visible speaking, new to us and strange
+The like not found on earth.  Fondly I gaz'd
+Upon those patterns of meek humbleness,
+Shapes yet more precious for their artist's sake,
+When "Lo," the poet whisper'd, "where this way
+(But slack their pace), a multitude advance.
+These to the lofty steps shall guide us on."
+
+Mine eyes, though bent on view of novel sights
+Their lov'd allurement, were not slow to turn.
+
+Reader! would not that amaz'd thou miss
+Of thy good purpose, hearing how just God
+Decrees our debts be cancel'd.  Ponder not
+The form of suff'ring.  Think on what succeeds,
+Think that at worst beyond the mighty doom
+It cannot pass.  "Instructor," I began,
+"What I see hither tending, bears no trace
+Of human semblance, nor of aught beside
+That my foil'd sight can guess."  He answering thus:
+"So courb'd to earth, beneath their heavy teems
+Of torment stoop they, that mine eye at first
+Struggled as thine.  But look intently thither,
+An disentangle with thy lab'ring view,
+What underneath those stones approacheth: now,
+E'en now, mayst thou discern the pangs of each."
+
+Christians and proud! poor and wretched ones!
+That feeble in the mind's eye, lean your trust
+Upon unstaid perverseness! now ye not
+That we are worms, yet made at last to form
+The winged insect, imp'd with angel plumes
+That to heaven's justice unobstructed soars?
+Why buoy ye up aloft your unfleg'd souls?
+Abortive then and shapeless ye remain,
+Like the untimely embryon of a worm!
+
+As, to support incumbent floor or roof,
+For corbel is a figure sometimes seen,
+That crumples up its knees unto its breast,
+With the feign'd posture stirring ruth unfeign'd
+In the beholder's fancy; so I saw
+These fashion'd, when I noted well their guise.
+
+Each, as his back was laden, came indeed
+Or more or less contract; but it appear'd
+As he, who show'd most patience in his look,
+Wailing exclaim'd: "I can endure no more."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XI
+
+"O thou Almighty Father, who dost make
+The heavens thy dwelling, not in bounds confin'd,
+But that with love intenser there thou view'st
+Thy primal effluence, hallow'd be thy name:
+Join each created being to extol
+Thy might, for worthy humblest thanks and praise
+Is thy blest Spirit.  May thy kingdom's peace
+Come unto us; for we, unless it come,
+With all our striving thither tend in vain.
+As of their will the angels unto thee
+Tender meet sacrifice, circling thy throne
+With loud hosannas, so of theirs be done
+By saintly men on earth.  Grant us this day
+Our daily manna, without which he roams
+Through this rough desert retrograde, who most
+Toils to advance his steps.  As we to each
+Pardon the evil done us, pardon thou
+Benign, and of our merit take no count.
+'Gainst the old adversary prove thou not
+Our virtue easily subdu'd; but free
+From his incitements and defeat his wiles.
+This last petition, dearest Lord! is made
+Not for ourselves, since that were needless now,
+But for their sakes who after us remain."
+
+Thus for themselves and us good speed imploring,
+Those spirits went beneath a weight like that
+We sometimes feel in dreams, all, sore beset,
+But with unequal anguish, wearied all,
+Round the first circuit, purging as they go,
+The world's gross darkness off: In our behalf
+If there vows still be offer'd, what can here
+For them be vow'd and done by such, whose wills
+Have root of goodness in them?  Well beseems
+That we should help them wash away the stains
+They carried hence, that so made pure and light,
+They may spring upward to the starry spheres.
+
+"Ah! so may mercy-temper'd justice rid
+Your burdens speedily, that ye have power
+To stretch your wing, which e'en to your desire
+Shall lift you, as ye show us on which hand
+Toward the ladder leads the shortest way.
+And if there be more passages than one,
+Instruct us of that easiest to ascend;
+For this man who comes with me, and bears yet
+The charge of fleshly raiment Adam left him,
+Despite his better will but slowly mounts."
+From whom the answer came unto these words,
+Which my guide spake, appear'd not; but 'twas said:
+
+"Along the bank to rightward come with us,
+And ye shall find a pass that mocks not toil
+Of living man to climb: and were it not
+That I am hinder'd by the rock, wherewith
+This arrogant neck is tam'd, whence needs I stoop
+My visage to the ground, him, who yet lives,
+Whose name thou speak'st not him I fain would view.
+To mark if e'er I knew himnd to crave
+His pity for the fardel that I bear.
+I was of Latiun,  of a Tuscan horn
+A mighty one: Aldobranlesco's name
+My sire's, I know not if ye e'er have heard.
+My old blood and forefathers' gallant deeds
+Made me so haughty, that I clean forgot
+The common mother, and to such excess,
+Wax'd in my scorn of all men, that I fell,
+Fell therefore; by what fate Sienna's sons,
+Each child in Campagnatico, can tell.
+I am Omberto; not me only pride
+Hath injur'd, but my kindred all involv'd
+In mischief with her.  Here my lot ordains
+Under this weight to groan, till I appease
+God's angry justice, since I did it not
+Amongst the living, here amongst the dead."
+
+List'ning I bent my visage down: and one
+(Not he who spake) twisted beneath the weight
+That urg'd him, saw me, knew me straight, and call'd,
+Holding his eyes With difficulty fix'd
+Intent upon me, stooping as I went
+Companion of their way.  "O!"  I exclaim'd,
+
+"Art thou not Oderigi, art not thou
+Agobbio's glory, glory of that art
+Which they of Paris call the limmer's skill?"
+
+"Brother!" said he, "with tints that gayer smile,
+Bolognian Franco's pencil lines the leaves.
+His all the honour now; mine borrow'd light.
+In truth I had not been thus courteous to him,
+The whilst I liv'd, through eagerness of zeal
+For that pre-eminence my heart was bent on.
+Here of such pride the forfeiture is paid.
+Nor were I even here; if, able still
+To sin, I had not turn'd me unto God.
+O powers of man! how vain your glory, nipp'd
+E'en in its height of verdure, if an age
+Less bright succeed not! imbue thought
+To lord it over painting's field; and now
+The cry is Giotto's, and his name eclips'd.
+Thus hath one Guido from the other snatch'd
+The letter'd prize: and he perhaps is born,
+Who shall drive either from their nest.  The noise
+Of worldly fame is but a blast of wind,
+That blows from divers points, and shifts its name
+Shifting the point it blows from.  Shalt thou more
+Live in the mouths of mankind, if thy flesh
+Part shrivel'd from thee, than if thou hadst died,
+Before the coral and the pap were left,
+Or ere some thousand years have passed? and that
+Is, to eternity compar'd, a space,
+Briefer than is the twinkling of an eye
+To the heaven's slowest orb.  He there who treads
+So leisurely before me, far and wide
+Through Tuscany resounded once; and now
+Is in Sienna scarce with whispers nam'd:
+There was he sov'reign, when destruction caught
+The madd'ning rage of Florence, in that day
+Proud as she now is loathsome.  Your renown
+Is as the herb, whose hue doth come and go,
+And his might withers it, by whom it sprang
+Crude from the lap of earth."  I thus to him:
+"True are thy sayings: to my heart they breathe
+The kindly spirit of meekness, and allay
+What tumours rankle there.  But who is he
+Of whom thou spak'st but now?"--"This," he replied,
+"Is Provenzano.  He is here, because
+He reach'd, with grasp presumptuous, at the sway
+Of all Sienna.  Thus he still hath gone,
+Thus goeth never-resting, since he died.
+Such is th' acquittance render'd back of him,
+Who, beyond measure, dar'd on earth."  I then:
+"If soul that to the verge of life delays
+Repentance, linger in that lower space,
+Nor hither mount, unless good prayers befriend,
+How chanc'd admittance was vouchsaf'd to him?"
+
+"When at his glory's topmost height," said he,
+"Respect of dignity all cast aside,
+Freely He fix'd him on Sienna's plain,
+A suitor to  redeem his suff'ring friend,
+Who languish'd in the prison-house of Charles,
+Nor for his sake refus'd through every vein
+To tremble.  More I will not say; and dark,
+I know, my words are, but thy neighbours soon
+Shall help thee to a comment on the text.
+This is the work, that from these limits freed him."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XII
+
+With equal pace as oxen in the yoke,
+I with that laden spirit journey'd on
+Long as the mild instructor suffer'd me;
+But when he bade me quit him, and proceed
+(For "here," said he, "behooves with sail and oars
+Each man, as best he may, push on his bark"),
+Upright, as one dispos'd for speed, I rais'd
+My body, still in thought submissive bow'd.
+
+I now my leader's track not loth pursued;
+And each had shown how light we far'd along
+When thus he warn'd me: "Bend thine eyesight down:
+For thou to ease the way shall find it good
+To ruminate the bed beneath thy feet."
+
+As in memorial of the buried, drawn
+Upon earth-level tombs, the sculptur'd form
+Of what was once, appears (at sight whereof
+Tears often stream forth by remembrance wak'd,
+Whose sacred stings the piteous only feel),
+So saw I there, but with more curious skill
+Of portraiture o'erwrought, whate'er of space
+From forth the mountain stretches.  On one part
+Him I beheld, above all creatures erst
+Created noblest, light'ning fall from heaven:
+On th' other side with bolt celestial pierc'd
+Briareus: cumb'ring earth he lay through dint
+Of mortal ice-stroke.  The Thymbraean god
+With Mars, I saw, and Pallas, round their sire,
+Arm'd still, and gazing on the giant's limbs
+Strewn o'er th' ethereal field.  Nimrod I saw:
+At foot of the stupendous work he stood,
+As if bewilder'd, looking on the crowd
+Leagued in his proud attempt on Sennaar's plain.
+
+O Niobe! in what a trance of woe
+Thee I beheld, upon that highway drawn,
+Sev'n sons on either side thee slain!  Saul!
+How ghastly didst thou look! on thine own sword
+Expiring in Gilboa, from that hour
+Ne'er visited with rain from heav'n or dew!
+
+O fond Arachne! thee I also saw
+Half spider now in anguish crawling up
+Th' unfinish'd web thou weaved'st to thy bane!
+
+O Rehoboam! here thy shape doth seem
+Louring no more defiance! but fear-smote
+With none to chase him in his chariot whirl'd.
+
+Was shown beside upon the solid floor
+How dear Alcmaeon forc'd his mother rate
+That ornament in evil hour receiv'd:
+How in the temple on Sennacherib fell
+His sons, and how a corpse they left him there.
+Was shown the scath and cruel mangling made
+By Tomyris on Cyrus, when she cried:
+"Blood thou didst thirst for, take thy fill of blood!"
+Was shown how routed in the battle fled
+Th' Assyrians, Holofernes slain, and e'en
+The relics of the carnage.  Troy I mark'd
+In ashes and in caverns.  Oh! how fall'n,
+How abject, Ilion, was thy semblance there!
+
+What master of the pencil or the style
+Had trac'd the shades and lines, that might have made
+The subtlest workman wonder?  Dead the dead,
+The living seem'd alive; with clearer view
+His eye beheld not who beheld the truth,
+Than mine what I did tread on, while I went
+Low bending.  Now swell out; and with stiff necks
+Pass on, ye sons of Eve! veil not your looks,
+Lest they descry the evil of your path!
+
+I noted not (so busied was my thought)
+How much we now had circled of the mount,
+And of his course yet more the sun had spent,
+When he, who with still wakeful caution went,
+Admonish'd: "Raise thou up thy head: for know
+Time is not now for slow suspense.  Behold
+That way an angel hasting towards us!  Lo!
+Where duly the sixth handmaid doth return
+From service on the day.  Wear thou in look
+And gesture seemly grace of reverent awe,
+That gladly he may forward us aloft.
+Consider that this day ne'er dawns again."
+
+Time's loss he had so often warn'd me 'gainst,
+I could not miss the scope at which he aim'd.
+
+The goodly shape approach'd us, snowy white
+In vesture, and with visage casting streams
+Of tremulous lustre like the matin star.
+His arms he open'd, then his wings; and spake:
+"Onward: the steps, behold! are near; and now
+Th' ascent is without difficulty gain'd."
+
+A scanty few are they, who when they hear
+Such tidings, hasten.  O ye race of men
+Though born to soar, why suffer ye a wind
+So slight to baffle ye?  He led us on
+Where the rock parted; here against my front
+Did beat his wings, then promis'd I should fare
+In safety on my way.  As to ascend
+That steep, upon whose brow the chapel stands
+(O'er Rubaconte, looking lordly down
+On the well-guided city,) up the right
+Th' impetuous rise is broken by the steps
+Carv'd in that old and simple age, when still
+The registry and label rested safe;
+Thus is th' acclivity reliev'd, which here
+Precipitous from the other circuit falls:
+But on each hand the tall cliff presses close.
+
+As ent'ring there we turn'd, voices, in strain
+Ineffable, sang: "Blessed are the poor
+In spirit."  Ah how far unlike to these
+The straits of hell; here songs to usher us,
+There shrieks of woe!  We climb the holy stairs:
+And lighter to myself by far I seem'd
+Than on the plain before, whence thus I spake:
+"Say, master, of what heavy thing have I
+Been lighten'd, that scarce aught the sense of toil
+Affects me journeying?"  He in few replied:
+"When sin's broad characters, that yet remain
+Upon thy temples, though well nigh effac'd,
+Shall be, as one is, all clean razed out,
+Then shall thy feet by heartiness of will
+Be so o'ercome, they not alone shall feel
+No sense of labour, but delight much more
+Shall wait them urg'd along their upward way."
+
+Then like to one, upon whose head is plac'd
+Somewhat he deems not of but from the becks
+Of others as they pass him by; his hand
+Lends therefore help to' assure him, searches, finds,
+And well performs such office as the eye
+Wants power to execute: so stretching forth
+The fingers of my right hand, did I find
+Six only of the letters, which his sword
+Who bare the keys had trac'd upon my brow.
+The leader, as he mark'd mine action, smil'd.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XIII
+
+We reach'd the summit of the scale, and stood
+Upon the second buttress of that mount
+Which healeth him who climbs.  A cornice there,
+Like to the former, girdles round the hill;
+Save that its arch with sweep less ample bends.
+
+Shadow nor image there is seen; all smooth
+The rampart and the path, reflecting nought
+But the rock's sullen hue.  "If here we wait
+For some to question," said the bard, "I fear
+Our choice may haply meet too long delay."
+
+Then fixedly upon the sun his eyes
+He fastn'd, made his right the central point
+From whence to move, and turn'd the left aside.
+"O pleasant light, my confidence and hope,
+Conduct us thou," he cried, "on this new way,
+Where now I venture, leading to the bourn
+We seek.  The universal world to thee
+Owes warmth and lustre.  If no other cause
+Forbid, thy beams should ever be our guide."
+
+Far, as is measur'd for a mile on earth,
+In brief space had we journey'd; such prompt will
+Impell'd; and towards us flying, now were heard
+Spirits invisible, who courteously
+Unto love's table bade the welcome guest.
+The voice, that firstlew by, call'd forth aloud,
+"They have no wine;" so on behind us past,
+Those sounds reiterating, nor yet lost
+In the faint distance, when another came
+Crying, "I am Orestes," and alike
+Wing'd its fleet way.  "Oh father!"  I exclaim'd,
+"What tongues are these?"  and as I question'd, lo!
+A third exclaiming, "Love ye those have wrong'd you."
+
+"This circuit," said my teacher, "knots the scourge
+For envy, and the cords are therefore drawn
+By charity's correcting hand.  The curb
+Is of a harsher sound, as thou shalt hear
+(If I deem rightly), ere thou reach the pass,
+Where pardon sets them free.  But fix thine eyes
+Intently through the air, and thou shalt see
+A multitude before thee seated, each
+Along the shelving grot."  Then more than erst
+I op'd my eyes, before me view'd, and saw
+Shadows with garments dark as was the rock;
+And when we pass'd a little forth, I heard
+A crying, "Blessed Mary! pray for us,
+Michael and Peter! all ye saintly host!"
+
+I do not think there walks on earth this day
+Man so remorseless, that he hath not yearn'd
+With pity at the sight that next I saw.
+Mine eyes a load of sorrow teemed, when now
+I stood so near them, that their semblances
+Came clearly to my view.  Of sackcloth vile
+Their cov'ring seem'd; and on his shoulder one
+Did stay another, leaning, and all lean'd
+Against the cliff.  E'en thus the blind and poor,
+Near the confessionals, to crave an alms,
+Stand, each his head upon his fellow's sunk,
+
+So most to stir compassion, not by sound
+Of words alone, but that, which moves not less,
+The sight of mis'ry.  And as never beam
+Of noonday visiteth the eyeless man,
+E'en so was heav'n a niggard unto these
+Of his fair light; for, through the orbs of all,
+A thread of wire, impiercing, knits them up,
+As for the taming of a haggard hawk.
+
+It were a wrong, methought, to pass and look
+On others, yet myself the while unseen.
+To my sage counsel therefore did I turn.
+He knew the meaning of the mute appeal,
+Nor waited for my questioning, but said:
+"Speak; and be brief, be subtle in thy words."
+
+On that part of the cornice, whence no rim
+Engarlands its steep fall, did Virgil come;
+On the' other side me were the spirits, their cheeks
+Bathing devout with penitential tears,
+That through the dread impalement forc'd a way.
+
+I turn'd me to them, and "O shades!" said I,
+
+"Assur'd that to your eyes unveil'd shall shine
+The lofty light, sole object of your wish,
+So may heaven's grace clear whatsoe'er of foam
+Floats turbid on the conscience, that thenceforth
+The stream of mind roll limpid from its source,
+As ye declare (for so shall ye impart
+A boon I dearly prize) if any soul
+Of Latium dwell among ye; and perchance
+That soul may profit, if I learn so much."
+
+"My brother, we are each one citizens
+Of one true city.  Any thou wouldst say,
+Who lived a stranger in Italia's land."
+
+So heard I answering, as appeal'd, a voice
+That onward came some space from whence I stood.
+
+A spirit I noted, in whose look was mark'd
+Expectance.  Ask ye how?  The chin was rais'd
+As in one reft of sight.  "Spirit," said I,
+"Who for thy rise are tutoring (if thou be
+That which didst answer to me,) or by place
+Or name, disclose thyself, that I may know thee."
+
+"I was," it answer'd, "of Sienna: here
+I cleanse away with these the evil life,
+Soliciting with tears that He, who is,
+Vouchsafe him to us.  Though Sapia nam'd
+In sapience I excell'd not, gladder far
+Of others' hurt, than of the good befell me.
+That thou mayst own I now deceive thee not,
+Hear, if my folly were not as I speak it.
+When now my years slop'd waning down the arch,
+It so bechanc'd, my fellow citizens
+Near Colle met their enemies in the field,
+And I pray'd God to grant what He had will'd.
+There were they vanquish'd, and betook themselves
+Unto the bitter passages of flight.
+I mark'd the hunt, and waxing out of bounds
+In gladness, lifted up my shameless brow,
+And like the merlin cheated by a gleam,
+Cried, "It is over.  Heav'n! fear thee not."
+Upon my verge of life I wish'd for peace
+With God; nor repentance had supplied
+What I did lack of duty, were it not
+The hermit Piero, touch'd with charity,
+In his devout orisons thought on me.
+"But who art thou that question'st of our state,
+Who go'st to my belief, with lids unclos'd,
+And breathest in thy talk?"--"Mine eyes," said I,
+"May yet be here ta'en from me; but not long;
+For they have not offended grievously
+With envious glances.  But the woe beneath
+Urges my soul with more exceeding dread.
+That nether load already weighs me down."
+
+She thus: "Who then amongst us here aloft
+Hath brought thee, if thou weenest to return?"
+
+"He," answer'd I, "who standeth mute beside me.
+I live: of me ask therefore, chosen spirit,
+If thou desire I yonder yet should move
+For thee my mortal feet."--"Oh!" she replied,
+"This is so strange a thing, it is great sign
+That God doth love thee.  Therefore with thy prayer
+Sometime assist me: and by that I crave,
+Which most thou covetest, that if thy feet
+E'er tread on Tuscan soil, thou save my fame
+Amongst my kindred.  Them shalt thou behold
+With that vain multitude, who set their hope
+On Telamone's haven, there to fail
+Confounded, more shall when the fancied stream
+They sought of Dian call'd: but they who lead
+Their navies, more than ruin'd hopes shall mourn."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XIV
+
+"Say who is he around our mountain winds,
+Or ever death has prun'd his wing for flight,
+That opes his eyes and covers them at will?"
+
+"I know not who he is, but know thus much
+He comes not singly.  Do thou ask of him,
+For thou art nearer to him, and take heed
+Accost him gently, so that he may speak."
+
+Thus on the right two Spirits bending each
+Toward the other, talk'd of me, then both
+Addressing me, their faces backward lean'd,
+And thus the one began: "O soul, who yet
+Pent in the body, tendest towards the sky!
+For charity, we pray thee' comfort us,
+Recounting whence thou com'st, and who thou art:
+For thou dost make us at the favour shown thee
+Marvel, as at a thing that ne'er hath been."
+
+"There stretches through the midst of Tuscany,"
+I straight began: "a brooklet, whose well-head
+Springs up in Falterona, with his race
+Not satisfied, when he some hundred miles
+Hath measur'd.  From his banks bring, I this frame.
+To tell you who I am were words misspent:
+For yet my name scarce sounds on rumour's lip."
+
+"If well I do incorp'rate with my thought
+The meaning of thy speech," said he, who first
+Addrest me, "thou dost speak of Arno's wave."
+
+To whom the other: "Why hath he conceal'd
+The title of that river, as a man
+Doth of some horrible thing?"  The spirit, who
+Thereof was question'd, did acquit him thus:
+"I know not: but 'tis fitting well the name
+Should perish of that vale; for from the source
+Where teems so plenteously the Alpine steep
+Maim'd of Pelorus, (that doth scarcely pass
+Beyond that limit,) even to the point
+Whereunto ocean is restor'd, what heaven
+Drains from th' exhaustless store for all earth's streams,
+Throughout the space is virtue worried down,
+As 'twere a snake, by all, for mortal foe,
+Or through disastrous influence on the place,
+Or else distortion of misguided wills,
+That custom goads to evil: whence in those,
+The dwellers in that miserable vale,
+Nature is so transform'd, it seems as they
+Had shar'd of Circe's feeding.  'Midst brute swine,
+Worthier of acorns than of other food
+Created for man's use, he shapeth first
+His obscure way; then, sloping onward, finds
+Curs, snarlers more in spite than power, from whom
+He turns with scorn aside: still journeying down,
+By how much more the curst and luckless foss
+Swells out to largeness, e'en so much it finds
+Dogs turning into wolves.  Descending still
+Through yet more hollow eddies, next he meets
+A race of foxes, so replete with craft,
+They do not fear that skill can master it.
+Nor will I cease because my words are heard
+By other ears than thine.  It shall be well
+For this man, if he keep in memory
+What from no erring Spirit I reveal.
+Lo! behold thy grandson, that becomes
+A hunter of those wolves, upon the shore
+Of the fierce stream, and cows them all with dread:
+Their flesh yet living sets he up to sale,
+Then like an aged beast to slaughter dooms.
+Many of life he reaves, himself of worth
+And goodly estimation.  Smear'd with gore
+Mark how he issues from the rueful wood,
+Leaving such havoc, that in thousand years
+It spreads not to prime lustihood again."
+
+As one, who tidings hears of woe to come,
+Changes his looks perturb'd, from whate'er part
+The peril grasp him, so beheld I change
+That spirit, who had turn'd to listen, struck
+With sadness, soon as he had caught the word.
+
+His visage and the other's speech did raise
+Desire in me to know the names of both,
+whereof with meek entreaty I inquir'd.
+
+The shade, who late addrest me, thus resum'd:
+"Thy wish imports that I vouchsafe to do
+For thy sake what thou wilt not do for mine.
+But since God's will is that so largely shine
+His grace in thee, I will be liberal too.
+Guido of Duca know then that I am.
+Envy so parch'd my blood, that had I seen
+A fellow man made joyous, thou hadst mark'd
+A livid paleness overspread my cheek.
+Such harvest reap I of the seed I sow'd.
+O man, why place thy heart where there doth need
+Exclusion of participants in good?
+This is Rinieri's spirit, this the boast
+And honour of the house of Calboli,
+Where of his worth no heritage remains.
+Nor his the only blood, that hath been stript
+('twixt Po, the mount, the Reno, and the shore,)
+Of all that truth or fancy asks for bliss;
+But in those limits such a growth has sprung
+Of rank and venom'd roots, as long would mock
+Slow culture's toil.  Where is good Liziohere
+Manardi, Traversalo, and Carpigna?
+O bastard slips of old Romagna's line!
+When in Bologna the low artisan,
+And in Faenza yon Bernardin sprouts,
+A gentle cyon from ignoble stem.
+Wonder not, Tuscan, if thou see me weep,
+When I recall to mind those once lov'd names,
+Guido of Prata, and of Azzo him
+That dwelt with you; Tignoso and his troop,
+With Traversaro's house and Anastagio's,
+(Each race disherited) and beside these,
+The ladies and the knights, the toils and ease,
+That witch'd us into love and courtesy;
+Where now such malice reigns in recreant hearts.
+O Brettinoro! wherefore tarriest still,
+Since forth of thee thy family hath gone,
+And many, hating evil, join'd their steps?
+Well doeth he, that bids his lineage cease,
+Bagnacavallo; Castracaro ill,
+And Conio worse, who care to propagate
+A race of Counties from such blood as theirs.
+Well shall ye also do, Pagani, then
+When from amongst you tries your demon child.
+Not so, howe'er, that henceforth there remain
+True proof of what ye were.  O Hugolin!
+Thou sprung of Fantolini's line! thy name
+Is safe, since none is look'd for after thee
+To cloud its lustre, warping from thy stock.
+But, Tuscan, go thy ways; for now I take
+Far more delight in weeping than in words.
+Such pity for your sakes hath wrung my heart."
+
+We knew those gentle spirits at parting heard
+Our steps.  Their silence therefore of our way
+Assur'd us.  Soon as we had quitted them,
+Advancing onward, lo! a voice that seem'd
+Like vollied light'ning, when it rives the air,
+Met us, and shouted, "Whosoever finds
+Will slay me," then fled from us, as the bolt
+Lanc'd sudden from a downward-rushing cloud.
+When it had giv'n short truce unto our hearing,
+Behold the other with a crash as loud
+As the quick-following thunder: "Mark in me
+Aglauros turn'd to rock."  I at the sound
+Retreating drew more closely to my guide.
+
+Now in mute stillness rested all the air:
+And thus he spake: "There was the galling bit.
+But your old enemy so baits his hook,
+He drags you eager to him.  Hence nor curb
+Avails you, nor reclaiming call.  Heav'n calls
+And round about you wheeling courts your gaze
+With everlasting beauties.  Yet your eye
+Turns with fond doting still upon the earth.
+Therefore He smites you who discerneth all."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XV
+
+As much as 'twixt the third hour's close and dawn,
+Appeareth of heav'n's sphere, that ever whirls
+As restless as an infant in his play,
+So much appear'd remaining to the sun
+Of his slope journey towards the western goal.
+
+Evening was there, and here the noon of night;
+and full upon our forehead smote the beams.
+For  round the mountain, circling, so our path
+Had led us, that toward the sun-set now
+Direct we journey'd: when I felt a weight
+Of more exceeding splendour, than before,
+Press on my front.  The cause unknown, amaze
+Possess'd me, and both hands against my brow
+Lifting, I interpos'd them, as a screen,
+That of its gorgeous superflux of light
+Clipp'd the diminish'd orb. As when the ray,
+Striking On water or the surface clear
+Of mirror, leaps unto the opposite part,
+Ascending at a glance, e'en as it fell,
+(And so much differs from the stone, that falls
+Through equal space, as practice skill hath shown);
+Thus with refracted light before me seemed
+The ground there smitten; whence in sudden haste
+My sight recoil'd.  "What is this, sire belov'd!
+'Gainst which I strive to shield the sight in vain?"
+Cried I, "and which towards us moving seems?"
+
+"Marvel not, if the family of heav'n,"
+He answer'd, "yet with dazzling radiance dim
+Thy sense it is a messenger who comes,
+Inviting man's ascent.  Such sights ere long,
+Not grievous, shall impart to thee delight,
+As thy perception is by nature wrought
+Up to their pitch."  The blessed angel, soon
+As we had reach'd him, hail'd us with glad voice:
+"Here enter on a ladder far less steep
+Than ye have yet encounter'd."  We forthwith
+Ascending, heard behind us chanted sweet,
+"Blessed the merciful," and "happy thou!
+That conquer'st."  Lonely each, my guide and I
+Pursued our upward way; and as we went,
+Some profit from his words I hop'd to win,
+And thus of him inquiring, fram'd my speech:
+
+"What meant Romagna's spirit, when he spake
+Of bliss exclusive with no partner shar'd?"
+
+He straight replied: "No wonder, since he knows,
+What sorrow waits on his own worst defect,
+If he chide others, that they less may mourn.
+Because ye point your wishes at a mark,
+Where, by communion of possessors, part
+Is lessen'd, envy bloweth up the sighs of men.
+No fear of that might touch ye, if the love
+Of higher sphere exalted your desire.
+For there, by how much more they call it ours,
+So much propriety of each in good
+Increases more, and heighten'd charity
+Wraps that fair cloister in a brighter flame."
+
+"Now lack I satisfaction more," said I,
+"Than if thou hadst been silent at the first,
+And doubt more gathers on my lab'ring thought.
+How can it chance, that good distributed,
+The many, that possess it, makes more rich,
+Than if 't were shar'd by few?"  He answering thus:
+"Thy mind, reverting still to things of earth,
+Strikes darkness from true light.  The highest good
+Unlimited, ineffable, doth so speed
+To love, as beam to lucid body darts,
+Giving as much of ardour as it finds.
+The sempiternal effluence streams abroad
+Spreading, wherever charity extends.
+So that the more aspirants to that bliss
+Are multiplied, more good is there to love,
+And more is lov'd; as mirrors, that reflect,
+Each unto other, propagated light.
+If these my words avail not to allay
+Thy thirsting, Beatrice thou shalt see,
+Who of this want, and of all else thou hast,
+Shall rid thee to the full.  Provide but thou
+That from thy temples may be soon eras'd,
+E'en as the two already, those five scars,
+That when they pain thee worst, then kindliest heal,"
+
+"Thou," I had said, "content'st me," when I saw
+The other round was gain'd, and wond'ring eyes
+Did keep me mute.  There suddenly I seem'd
+By an ecstatic vision wrapt away;
+And in a temple saw, methought, a crowd
+Of many persons; and at th' entrance stood
+A dame, whose sweet demeanour did express
+A mother's love, who said, "Child! why hast thou
+Dealt with us thus?  Behold thy sire and I
+Sorrowing have sought thee;" and so held her peace,
+And straight the vision fled.  A female next
+Appear'd before me, down whose visage cours'd
+Those waters, that grief forces out from one
+By deep resentment stung, who seem'd to say:
+"If thou, Pisistratus, be lord indeed
+Over this city, nam'd with such debate
+Of adverse gods, and whence each science sparkles,
+Avenge thee of those arms, whose bold embrace
+Hath clasp'd our daughter; "and to fuel, meseem'd,
+Benign and meek, with visage undisturb'd,
+Her sovran spake: "How shall we those requite,
+Who wish us evil, if we thus condemn
+The man that loves us?"  After that I saw
+A multitude, in fury burning, slay
+With stones a stripling youth, and shout amain
+"Destroy, destroy:" and him I saw, who bow'd
+Heavy with death unto the ground, yet made
+His eyes, unfolded upward, gates to heav'n,
+
+Praying forgiveness of th' Almighty Sire,
+Amidst that cruel conflict, on his foes,
+With looks, that With compassion to their aim.
+
+Soon as my spirit, from her airy flight
+Returning, sought again the things, whose truth
+Depends not on her shaping, I observ'd
+How she had rov'd to no unreal scenes
+
+Meanwhile the leader, who might see I mov'd,
+As one, who struggles to shake off his sleep,
+Exclaim'd: "What ails thee, that thou canst not hold
+Thy footing firm, but more than half a league
+Hast travel'd with clos'd eyes and tott'ring gait,
+Like to a man by wine or sleep o'ercharg'd?"
+
+"Beloved father! so thou deign," said I,
+"To listen, I will tell thee what appear'd
+Before me, when so fail'd my sinking steps."
+
+He thus: "Not if thy Countenance were mask'd
+With hundred vizards, could a thought of thine
+How small soe'er, elude me.  What thou saw'st
+Was shown, that freely thou mightst ope thy heart
+To the waters of peace, that flow diffus'd
+From their eternal fountain.  I not ask'd,
+What ails theeor such cause as he doth, who
+Looks only with that eye which sees no more,
+When spiritless the body lies; but ask'd,
+To give fresh vigour to thy foot.  Such goads
+The slow and loit'ring need; that they be found
+Not wanting, when their hour of watch returns."
+
+So on we journey'd through the evening sky
+Gazing intent, far onward, as our eyes
+With level view could stretch against the bright
+Vespertine ray: and lo! by slow degrees
+Gath'ring, a fog made tow'rds us, dark as night.
+There was no room for 'scaping; and that mist
+Bereft us, both of sight and the pure air.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XVI
+
+Hell's dunnest gloom, or night unlustrous, dark,
+Of every planes 'reft, and pall'd in clouds,
+Did never spread before the sight a veil
+In thickness like that fog, nor to the sense
+So palpable and gross.  Ent'ring its shade,
+Mine eye endured not with unclosed lids;
+Which marking, near me drew the faithful guide,
+Offering me his shoulder for a stay.
+
+As the blind man behind his leader walks,
+Lest he should err, or stumble unawares
+On what might harm him, or perhaps destroy,
+I journey'd through that bitter air and foul,
+Still list'ning to my escort's warning voice,
+"Look that from me thou part not."  Straight I heard
+Voices, and each one seem'd to pray for peace,
+And for compassion, to the Lamb of God
+That taketh sins away.  Their prelude still
+Was "Agnus Dei," and through all the choir,
+One voice, one measure ran, that perfect seem'd
+The concord of their song.  "Are these I hear
+Spirits, O master?"  I exclaim'd; and he:
+"Thou aim'st aright: these loose the bonds of wrath."
+
+"Now who art thou, that through our smoke dost cleave?
+And speak'st of us, as thou thyself e'en yet
+Dividest time by calends?"  So one voice
+Bespake me; whence my master said: "Reply;
+And ask, if upward hence the passage lead."
+
+"O being! who dost make thee pure, to stand
+Beautiful once more in thy Maker's sight!
+Along with me: and thou shalt hear and wonder."
+Thus I, whereto the spirit answering spake:
+
+"Long as 't is lawful for me, shall my steps
+Follow on thine; and since the cloudy smoke
+Forbids the seeing, hearing in its stead
+Shall keep us join'd."  I then forthwith began
+"Yet in my mortal swathing, I ascend
+To higher regions, and am hither come
+Through the fearful agony of hell.
+And, if so largely God hath doled his grace,
+That, clean beside all modern precedent,
+He wills me to behold his kingly state,
+From me conceal not who thou wast, ere death
+Had loos'd thee; but instruct me: and instruct
+If rightly to the pass I tend; thy words
+The way directing as a safe escort."
+
+"I was of Lombardy, and Marco call'd:
+Not inexperienc'd of the world, that worth
+I still affected, from which all have turn'd
+The nerveless bow aside.  Thy course tends right
+Unto the summit:" and, replying thus,
+He added, "I beseech thee pray for me,
+When thou shalt come aloft."  And I to him:
+"Accept my faith for pledge I will perform
+What thou requirest.  Yet one doubt remains,
+That wrings me sorely, if I solve it not,
+Singly before it urg'd me, doubled now
+By thine opinion, when I couple that
+With one elsewhere declar'd, each strength'ning other.
+The world indeed is even so forlorn
+Of all good as thou speak'st it and so swarms
+With every evil.  Yet, beseech thee, point
+The cause out to me, that myself may see,
+And unto others show it: for in heaven
+One places it, and one on earth below."
+
+Then heaving forth a deep and audible sigh,
+"Brother!" he thus began, "the world is blind;
+And thou in truth com'st from it.  Ye, who live,
+Do so each cause refer to heav'n above,
+E'en as its motion of necessity
+Drew with it all that moves.  If this were so,
+Free choice in you were none; nor justice would
+There should be joy for virtue, woe for ill.
+Your movements have their primal bent from heaven;
+Not all; yet said I all; what then ensues?
+Light have ye still to follow evil or good,
+And of the will free power, which, if it stand
+Firm and unwearied in Heav'n's first assay,
+Conquers at last, so it be cherish'd well,
+Triumphant over all.  To mightier force,
+To better nature subject, ye abide
+Free, not constrain'd by that, which forms in you
+The reasoning mind uninfluenc'd of the stars.
+If then the present race of mankind err,
+Seek in yourselves the cause, and find it there.
+Herein thou shalt confess me no false spy.
+
+"Forth from his plastic hand, who charm'd beholds
+Her image ere she yet exist, the soul
+Comes like a babe, that wantons sportively
+Weeping and laughing in its wayward moods,
+As artless and as ignorant of aught,
+Save that her Maker being one who dwells
+With gladness ever, willingly she turns
+To whate'er yields her joy.  Of some slight good
+The flavour soon she tastes; and, snar'd by that,
+With fondness she pursues it, if no guide
+Recall, no rein direct her wand'ring course.
+Hence it behov'd, the law should be a curb;
+A sovereign hence behov'd, whose piercing view
+Might mark at least the fortress and main tower
+Of the true city.  Laws indeed there are:
+But who is he observes them?  None; not he,
+Who goes before, the shepherd of the flock,
+Who chews the cud but doth not cleave the hoof.
+Therefore the multitude, who see their guide
+Strike at the very good they covet most,
+Feed there and look no further.  Thus the cause
+Is not corrupted nature in yourselves,
+But ill-conducting, that hath turn'd the world
+To evil.  Rome, that turn'd it unto good,
+Was wont to boast two suns, whose several beams
+Cast light on either way, the world's and God's.
+One since hath quench'd the other; and the sword
+Is grafted on the crook; and so conjoin'd
+Each must perforce decline to worse, unaw'd
+By fear of other.  If thou doubt me, mark
+The blade: each herb is judg'd of by its seed.
+That land, through which Adice and the Po
+Their waters roll, was once the residence
+Of courtesy and velour, ere the day,
+That frown'd on Frederick; now secure may pass
+Those limits, whosoe'er hath left, for shame,
+To talk with good men, or come near their haunts.
+Three aged ones are still found there, in whom
+The old time chides the new: these deem it long
+Ere God restore them to a better world:
+The good Gherardo, of Palazzo he
+Conrad, and Guido of Castello, nam'd
+In Gallic phrase more fitly the plain Lombard.
+On this at last conclude.  The church of Rome,
+Mixing two governments that ill assort,
+Hath miss'd her footing, fall'n into the mire,
+And there herself and burden much defil'd."
+
+"O Marco!" I replied, shine arguments
+Convince me: and the cause I now discern
+Why of the heritage no portion came
+To Levi's offspring.  But resolve me this
+Who that Gherardo is, that as thou sayst
+Is left a sample of the perish'd race,
+And for rebuke to this untoward age?"
+
+"Either thy words," said he, "deceive; or else
+Are meant to try me; that thou, speaking Tuscan,
+Appear'st not to have heard of good Gherado;
+The sole addition that, by which I know him;
+Unless I borrow'd from his daughter Gaia
+Another name to grace him.  God be with you.
+I bear you company no more.  Behold
+The dawn with white ray glimm'ring through the mist.
+I must away--the angel comes--ere he
+Appear."  He said, and would not hear me more.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XVII
+
+Call to remembrance, reader, if thou e'er
+Hast, on a mountain top, been ta'en by cloud,
+Through which thou saw'st no better, than the mole
+Doth through opacous membrane; then, whene'er
+The wat'ry vapours dense began to melt
+Into thin air, how faintly the sun's sphere
+Seem'd wading through them; so thy nimble thought
+May image, how at first I re-beheld
+The sun, that bedward now his couch o'erhung.
+
+Thus with my leader's feet still equaling pace
+From forth that cloud I came, when now expir'd
+The parting beams from off the nether shores.
+
+O quick and forgetive power! that sometimes dost
+So rob us of ourselves, we take no mark
+Though round about us thousand trumpets clang!
+What moves thee, if the senses stir not?  Light
+Kindled in heav'n, spontaneous, self-inform'd,
+Or likelier gliding down with swift illapse
+By will divine.  Portray'd before me came
+The traces of her dire impiety,
+Whose form was chang'd into the bird, that most
+Delights itself in song: and here my mind
+Was inwardly so wrapt, it gave no place
+To aught that ask'd admittance from without.
+
+Next shower'd into my fantasy a shape
+As of one crucified, whose visage spake
+Fell rancour, malice deep, wherein he died;
+And round him Ahasuerus the great king,
+Esther his bride, and Mordecai the just,
+Blameless in word and deed.  As of itself
+That unsubstantial coinage of the brain
+Burst, like a bubble, Which the water fails
+That fed it; in my vision straight uprose
+A damsel weeping loud, and cried, "O queen!
+O mother! wherefore has intemperate ire
+Driv'n thee to loath thy being?  Not to lose
+Lavinia, desp'rate thou hast slain thyself.
+Now hast thou lost me.  I am she, whose tears
+Mourn, ere I fall, a mother's timeless end."
+
+E'en as a sleep breaks off, if suddenly
+New radiance strike upon the closed lids,
+The broken slumber quivering ere it dies;
+Thus from before me sunk that imagery
+Vanishing, soon as on my face there struck
+The light, outshining far our earthly beam.
+As round I turn'd me to survey what place
+I had arriv'd at, "Here ye mount," exclaim'd
+A voice, that other purpose left me none,
+Save will so eager to behold who spake,
+I could not choose but gaze.  As 'fore the sun,
+That weighs our vision down, and veils his form
+In light transcendent, thus my virtue fail'd
+Unequal.  "This is Spirit from above,
+Who marshals us our upward way, unsought;
+And in his own light shrouds him.  As a man
+Doth for himself, so now is done for us.
+For whoso waits imploring, yet sees need
+Of his prompt aidance, sets himself prepar'd
+For blunt denial, ere the suit be made.
+Refuse we not to lend a ready foot
+At such inviting: haste we to ascend,
+Before it darken: for we may not then,
+Till morn again return."  So spake my guide;
+And to one ladder both address'd our steps;
+And the first stair approaching, I perceiv'd
+Near me as 'twere the waving of a wing,
+That fann'd my face and whisper'd: "Blessed they
+The peacemakers: they know not evil wrath."
+
+Now to such height above our heads were rais'd
+The last beams, follow'd close by hooded night,
+That many a star on all sides through the gloom
+Shone out.  "Why partest from me, O my strength?"
+So with myself I commun'd; for I felt
+My o'ertoil'd sinews slacken.  We had reach'd
+The summit, and were fix'd like to a bark
+Arriv'd at land.  And waiting a short space,
+If aught should meet mine ear in that new round,
+Then to my guide I turn'd, and said: "Lov'd sire!
+Declare what guilt is on this circle purg'd.
+If our feet rest, no need thy speech should pause."
+
+He thus to me: "The love of good, whate'er
+Wanted of just proportion, here fulfils.
+Here plies afresh the oar, that loiter'd ill.
+But that thou mayst yet clearlier understand,
+Give ear unto my words, and thou shalt cull
+Some fruit may please thee well, from this delay.
+
+"Creator, nor created being, ne'er,
+My son," he thus began, "was without love,
+Or natural, or the free spirit's growth.
+Thou hast not that to learn.  The natural still
+Is without error; but the other swerves,
+If on ill object bent, or through excess
+Of vigour, or defect.  While e'er it seeks
+The primal blessings, or with measure due
+Th' inferior, no delight, that flows from it,
+Partakes of ill.  But let it warp to evil,
+Or with more ardour than behooves, or less.
+Pursue the good, the thing created then
+Works 'gainst its Maker.  Hence thou must infer
+That love is germin of each virtue in ye,
+And of each act no less, that merits pain.
+Now since it may not be, but love intend
+The welfare mainly of the thing it loves,
+All from self-hatred are secure; and since
+No being can be thought t' exist apart
+And independent of the first, a bar
+Of equal force restrains from hating that.
+
+"Grant the distinction just; and it remains
+The' evil must be another's, which is lov'd.
+Three ways such love is gender'd in your clay.
+There is who hopes (his neighbour's worth deprest,)
+Preeminence himself, and coverts hence
+For his own greatness that another fall.
+There is who so much fears the loss of power,
+Fame, favour, glory (should his fellow mount
+Above him), and so sickens at the thought,
+He loves their opposite: and there is he,
+Whom wrong or insult seems to gall and shame
+That he doth thirst for vengeance, and such needs
+Must doat on other's evil.  Here beneath
+This threefold love is mourn'd.  Of th' other sort
+Be now instructed, that which follows good
+But with disorder'd and irregular course.
+
+"All indistinctly apprehend a bliss
+On which the soul may rest, the hearts of all
+Yearn after it, and to that wished bourn
+All therefore strive to tend.  If ye behold
+Or seek it with a love remiss and lax,
+This cornice after just repenting lays
+Its penal torment on ye.  Other good
+There is, where man finds not his happiness:
+It is not true fruition, not that blest
+Essence, of every good the branch and root.
+The love too lavishly bestow'd on this,
+Along three circles over us, is mourn'd.
+Account of that division tripartite
+Expect not, fitter for thine own research."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XVIII
+
+The teacher ended, and his high discourse
+Concluding, earnest in my looks inquir'd
+If I appear'd content; and I, whom still
+Unsated thirst to hear him urg'd, was mute,
+Mute outwardly, yet inwardly I said:
+"Perchance my too much questioning offends"
+But he, true father, mark'd the secret wish
+By diffidence restrain'd, and speaking, gave
+Me boldness thus to speak: 'Master, my Sight
+Gathers so lively virtue from thy beams,
+That all, thy words convey, distinct is seen.
+Wherefore I pray thee, father, whom this heart
+Holds dearest! thou wouldst deign by proof t' unfold
+That love, from which as from their source thou bring'st
+All good deeds and their opposite.'"  He then:
+"To what I now disclose be thy clear ken
+Directed, and thou plainly shalt behold
+How much those blind have err'd, who make themselves
+The guides of men.  The soul, created apt
+To love, moves versatile which way soe'er
+Aught pleasing prompts her, soon as she is wak'd
+By pleasure into act.  Of substance true
+Your apprehension forms its counterfeit,
+And in you the ideal shape presenting
+Attracts the soul's regard.  If she, thus drawn,
+incline toward it, love is that inclining,
+And a new nature knit by pleasure in ye.
+Then as the fire points up, and mounting seeks
+His birth-place and his lasting seat, e'en thus
+Enters the captive soul into desire,
+Which is a spiritual motion, that ne'er rests
+Before enjoyment of the thing it loves.
+Enough to show thee, how the truth from those
+Is hidden, who aver all love a thing
+Praise-worthy in itself: although perhaps
+Its substance seem still good.  Yet if the wax
+Be good, it follows not th' impression must."
+"What love is," I return'd, "thy words, O guide!
+And my own docile mind, reveal.  Yet thence
+New doubts have sprung.  For from without if love
+Be offer'd to us, and the spirit knows
+No other footing, tend she right or wrong,
+Is no desert of hers."  He answering thus:
+"What reason here discovers I have power
+To show thee: that which lies beyond, expect
+From Beatrice, faith not reason's task.
+Spirit, substantial form, with matter join'd
+Not in confusion mix'd, hath in itself
+Specific virtue of that union born,
+Which is not felt except it work, nor prov'd
+But through effect, as vegetable life
+By the green leaf.  From whence his intellect
+Deduced its primal notices of things,
+Man therefore knows not, or his appetites
+Their first affections; such in you, as zeal
+In bees to gather honey; at the first,
+Volition, meriting nor blame nor praise.
+But o'er each lower faculty supreme,
+That as she list are summon'd to her bar,
+Ye have that virtue in you, whose just voice
+Uttereth counsel, and whose word should keep
+The threshold of assent.  Here is the source,
+Whence cause of merit in you is deriv'd,
+E'en as the affections good or ill she takes,
+Or severs, winnow'd as the chaff.  Those men
+Who reas'ning went to depth profoundest, mark'd
+That innate freedom, and were thence induc'd
+To leave their moral teaching to the world.
+Grant then, that from necessity arise
+All love that glows within you; to dismiss
+Or harbour it, the pow'r is in yourselves.
+Remember, Beatrice, in her style,
+Denominates free choice by eminence
+The noble virtue, if in talk with thee
+She touch upon that theme."  The moon, well nigh
+To midnight hour belated, made the stars
+Appear to wink and fade; and her broad disk
+Seem'd like a crag on fire, as up the vault
+That course she journey'd, which the sun then warms,
+When they of Rome behold him at his set.
+Betwixt Sardinia and the Corsic isle.
+And now the weight, that hung upon my thought,
+Was lighten'd by the aid of that clear spirit,
+Who raiseth Andes above Mantua's name.
+I therefore, when my questions had obtain'd
+Solution plain and ample, stood as one
+Musing in dreary slumber; but not long
+Slumber'd; for suddenly a multitude,
+
+The steep already turning, from behind,
+Rush'd on.  With fury and like random rout,
+As echoing on their shores at midnight heard
+Ismenus and Asopus, for his Thebes
+If Bacchus' help were needed; so came these
+Tumultuous, curving each his rapid step,
+By eagerness impell'd of holy love.
+
+Soon they o'ertook us; with such swiftness mov'd
+The mighty crowd.  Two spirits at their head
+Cried weeping; "Blessed Mary sought with haste
+The hilly region.  Caesar to subdue
+Ilerda, darted in Marseilles his sting,
+And flew to Spain."--"Oh tarry not: away;"
+The others shouted; "let not time be lost
+Through slackness of affection.  Hearty zeal
+To serve reanimates celestial grace."
+
+"O ye, in whom intenser fervency
+Haply supplies, where lukewarm erst ye fail'd,
+Slow or neglectful, to absolve your part
+Of good and virtuous, this man, who yet lives,
+(Credit my tale, though strange) desires t' ascend,
+So morning rise to light us.  Therefore say
+Which hand leads nearest to the rifted rock?"
+
+So spake my guide, to whom a shade return'd:
+"Come after us, and thou shalt find the cleft.
+We may not linger: such resistless will
+Speeds our unwearied course.  Vouchsafe us then
+Thy pardon, if our duty seem to thee
+Discourteous rudeness.  In Verona I
+Was abbot of San Zeno, when the hand
+Of Barbarossa grasp'd Imperial sway,
+That name, ne'er utter'd without tears in Milan.
+And there is he, hath one foot in his grave,
+Who for that monastery ere long shall weep,
+Ruing his power misus'd: for that his son,
+Of body ill compact, and worse in mind,
+And born in evil, he hath set in place
+Of its true pastor."  Whether more he spake,
+Or here was mute, I know not: he had sped
+E'en now so far beyond us.  Yet thus much
+I heard, and in rememb'rance treasur'd it.
+
+He then, who never fail'd me at my need,
+Cried, "Hither turn.  Lo! two with sharp remorse
+Chiding their sin!"  In rear of all the troop
+These shouted: "First they died, to whom the sea
+Open'd, or ever Jordan saw his heirs:
+And they, who with Aeneas to the end
+Endur'd not suffering, for their portion chose
+Life without glory."  Soon as they had fled
+Past reach of sight, new thought within me rose
+By others follow'd fast, and each unlike
+Its fellow: till led on from thought to thought,
+And pleasur'd with the fleeting train, mine eye
+Was clos'd, and meditation chang'd to dream.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XIX
+
+It was the hour, when of diurnal heat
+No reliques chafe the cold beams of the moon,
+O'erpower'd by earth, or planetary sway
+Of Saturn; and the geomancer sees
+His Greater Fortune up the east ascend,
+Where gray dawn checkers first the shadowy cone;
+When 'fore me in my dream a woman's shape
+There came, with lips that stammer'd, eyes aslant,
+Distorted feet, hands maim'd, and colour pale.
+
+I look'd upon her; and as sunshine cheers
+Limbs numb'd by nightly cold, e'en thus my look
+Unloos'd her tongue, next in brief space her form
+Decrepit rais'd erect, and faded face
+With love's own hue illum'd. Recov'ring speech
+She forthwith warbling such a strain began,
+That I, how loth soe'er, could scarce have held
+Attention from the song.  "I," thus she sang,
+"I am the Siren, she, whom mariners
+On the wide sea are wilder'd when they hear:
+Such fulness of delight the list'ner feels.
+I from his course Ulysses by my lay
+Enchanted drew.  Whoe'er frequents me once
+Parts seldom; so I charm him, and his heart
+Contented knows no void."  Or ere her mouth
+Was clos'd, to shame her at her side appear'd
+A dame of semblance holy.  With stern voice
+She utter'd; "Say, O Virgil, who is this?"
+Which hearing, he approach'd, with eyes still bent
+Toward that goodly presence: th' other seiz'd her,
+And, her robes tearing, open'd her before,
+And show'd the belly to me, whence a smell,
+Exhaling loathsome, wak'd me.  Round I turn'd
+Mine eyes, and thus the teacher: "At the least
+Three times my voice hath call'd thee.  Rise, begone.
+Let us the opening find where thou mayst pass."
+
+I straightway rose.  Now day, pour'd down from high,
+Fill'd all the circuits of the sacred mount;
+And, as we journey'd, on our shoulder smote
+The early ray.  I follow'd, stooping low
+My forehead, as a man, o'ercharg'd with thought,
+Who bends him to the likeness of an arch,
+That midway spans the flood; when thus I heard,
+"Come, enter here," in tone so soft and mild,
+As never met the ear on mortal strand.
+
+With swan-like wings dispread and pointing up,
+Who thus had spoken marshal'd us along,
+Where each side of the solid masonry
+The sloping, walls retir'd; then mov'd his plumes,
+And fanning us, affirm'd that those, who mourn,
+Are blessed, for that comfort shall be theirs.
+
+"What aileth thee, that still thou look'st to earth?"
+Began my leader; while th' angelic shape
+A little over us his station took.
+
+"New vision," I replied, "hath rais'd in me
+Surmisings strange and anxious doubts, whereon
+My soul intent allows no other thought
+Or room or entrance."--"Hast thou seen," said he,
+"That old enchantress, her, whose wiles alone
+The spirits o'er us weep for?  Hast thou seen
+How man may free him of her bonds?  Enough.
+Let thy heels spurn the earth, and thy rais'd ken
+Fix on the lure, which heav'n's eternal King
+Whirls in the rolling spheres."  As on his feet
+The falcon first looks down, then to the sky
+Turns, and forth stretches eager for the food,
+That woos him thither; so the call I heard,
+So onward, far as the dividing rock
+Gave way, I journey'd, till the plain was reach'd.
+
+On the fifth circle when I stood at large,
+A race appear'd before me, on the ground
+All downward lying prone and weeping sore.
+"My soul hath cleaved to the dust," I heard
+With sighs so deep, they well nigh choak'd the words.
+"O ye elect of God, whose penal woes
+Both hope and justice mitigate, direct
+Tow'rds the steep rising our uncertain way."
+
+"If ye approach secure from this our doom,
+Prostration--and would urge your course with speed,
+See that ye still to rightward keep the brink."
+
+So them the bard besought; and such the words,
+Beyond us some short space, in answer came.
+
+I noted what remain'd yet hidden from them:
+Thence to my liege's eyes mine eyes I bent,
+And he, forthwith interpreting their suit,
+Beckon'd his glad assent. Free then to act,
+As pleas'd me, I drew near, and took my stand
+O`er that shade, whose words I late had mark'd.
+And, "Spirit!"  I said, "in whom repentant tears
+Mature that blessed hour, when thou with God
+Shalt find acceptance, for a while suspend
+For me that mightier care.  Say who thou wast,
+Why thus ye grovel on your bellies prone,
+And if in aught ye wish my service there,
+Whence living I am come."  He answering spake
+"The cause why Heav'n our back toward his cope
+Reverses, shalt thou know: but me know first
+The successor of Peter, and the name
+And title of my lineage from that stream,
+That' twixt Chiaveri and Siestri draws
+His limpid waters through the lowly glen.
+A month and little more by proof I learnt,
+With what a weight that robe of sov'reignty
+Upon his shoulder rests, who from the mire
+Would guard it: that each other fardel seems
+But feathers in the balance.  Late, alas!
+Was my conversion: but when I became
+Rome's pastor, I discern'd at once the dream
+And cozenage of life, saw that the heart
+Rested not there, and yet no prouder height
+Lur'd on the climber: wherefore, of that life
+No more enamour'd, in my bosom love
+Of purer being kindled.  For till then
+I was a soul in misery, alienate
+From God, and covetous of all earthly things;
+Now, as thou seest, here punish'd for my doting.
+Such cleansing from the taint of avarice
+Do spirits converted need.  This mount inflicts
+No direr penalty.  E'en as our eyes
+Fasten'd below, nor e'er to loftier clime
+Were lifted, thus hath justice level'd us
+Here on the earth.  As avarice quench'd our love
+Of good, without which is no working, thus
+Here justice holds us prison'd, hand and foot
+Chain'd down and bound, while heaven's just Lord shall please.
+So long to tarry motionless outstretch'd."
+
+My knees I stoop'd, and would have spoke; but he,
+Ere my beginning, by his ear perceiv'd
+I did him reverence; and "What cause," said he,
+"Hath bow'd thee thus!"--"Compunction," I rejoin'd.
+"And inward awe of your high dignity."
+
+"Up," he exclaim'd, "brother! upon thy feet
+Arise: err not: thy fellow servant I,
+(Thine and all others') of one Sovran Power.
+If thou hast ever mark'd those holy sounds
+Of gospel truth, 'nor shall be given ill marriage,'
+Thou mayst discern the reasons of my speech.
+Go thy ways now; and linger here no more.
+Thy tarrying is a let unto the tears,
+With which I hasten that whereof thou spak'st.
+I have on earth a kinswoman; her name
+Alagia, worthy in herself, so ill
+Example of our house corrupt her not:
+And she is all remaineth of me there."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XX
+
+Ill strives the will, 'gainst will more wise that strives
+His pleasure therefore to mine own preferr'd,
+I drew the sponge yet thirsty from the wave.
+
+Onward I mov'd: he also onward mov'd,
+Who led me, coasting still, wherever place
+Along the rock was vacant, as a man
+Walks near the battlements on narrow wall.
+For those on th' other part, who drop by drop
+Wring out their all-infecting malady,
+Too closely press the verge.  Accurst be thou!
+Inveterate wolf! whose gorge ingluts more prey,
+Than every beast beside, yet is not fill'd!
+So bottomless thy maw!--Ye spheres of heaven!
+To whom there are, as seems, who attribute
+All change in mortal state, when is the day
+Of his appearing, for whom fate reserves
+To chase her hence?--With wary steps and slow
+We pass'd; and I attentive to the shades,
+Whom piteously I heard lament and wail;
+
+And, 'midst the wailing, one before us heard
+Cry out "O blessed Virgin!"  as a dame
+In the sharp pangs of childbed; and "How poor
+Thou wast," it added, "witness that low roof
+Where thou didst lay thy sacred burden down.
+O good Fabricius! thou didst virtue choose
+With poverty, before great wealth with vice."
+
+The words so pleas'd me, that desire to know
+The spirit, from whose lip they seem'd to come,
+Did draw me onward.  Yet it spake the gift
+Of Nicholas, which on the maidens he
+Bounteous bestow'd, to save their youthful prime
+Unblemish'd.  "Spirit! who dost speak of deeds
+So worthy, tell me who thou was," I said,
+"And why thou dost with single voice renew
+Memorial of such praise. That boon vouchsaf'd
+Haply shall meet reward; if I return
+To finish the Short pilgrimage of life,
+Still speeding to its close on restless wing."
+
+"I," answer'd he, "will tell thee, not for hell,
+Which thence I look for; but that in thyself
+Grace so exceeding shines, before thy time
+Of mortal dissolution.  I was root
+Of that ill plant, whose shade such poison sheds
+O'er all the Christian land, that seldom thence
+Good fruit is gather'd.  Vengeance soon should come,
+Had Ghent and Douay, Lille and Bruges power;
+And vengeance I of heav'n's great Judge implore.
+Hugh Capet was I high: from me descend
+The Philips and the Louis, of whom France
+Newly is govern'd; born of one, who ply'd
+The slaughterer's trade at Paris.  When the race
+Of ancient kings had vanish'd (all save one
+Wrapt up in sable weeds) within my gripe
+I found the reins of empire, and such powers
+Of new acquirement, with full store of friends,
+That soon the widow'd circlet of the crown
+Was girt upon the temples of my son,
+He, from whose bones th' anointed race begins.
+Till the great dower of Provence had remov'd
+The stains, that yet obscur'd our lowly blood,
+Its sway indeed was narrow, but howe'er
+It wrought no evil: there, with force and lies,
+Began its rapine; after, for amends,
+Poitou it seiz'd, Navarre and Gascony.
+To Italy came Charles, and for amends
+Young Conradine an innocent victim slew,
+And sent th' angelic teacher back to heav'n,
+Still for amends.  I see the time at hand,
+That forth from France invites another Charles
+To make himself and kindred better known.
+Unarm'd he issues, saving with that lance,
+Which the arch-traitor tilted with; and that
+He carries with so home a thrust, as rives
+The bowels of poor Florence.  No increase
+Of territory hence, but sin and shame
+Shall be his guerdon, and so much the more
+As he more lightly deems of such foul wrong.
+I see the other, who a prisoner late
+Had steps on shore, exposing to the mart
+His daughter, whom he bargains for, as do
+The Corsairs for their slaves.  O avarice!
+What canst thou more, who hast subdued our blood
+So wholly to thyself, they feel no care
+Of their own flesh?  To hide with direr guilt
+Past ill and future, lo! the flower-de-luce
+Enters Alagna! in his Vicar Christ
+Himself a captive, and his mockery
+Acted again!  Lo! to his holy lip
+The vinegar and gall once more applied!
+And he 'twixt living robbers doom'd to bleed!
+Lo! the new Pilate, of whose cruelty
+Such violence cannot fill the measure up,
+With no degree to sanction, pushes on
+Into the temple his yet eager sails!
+
+"O sovran Master! when shall I rejoice
+To see the vengeance, which thy wrath well-pleas'd
+In secret silence broods?--While daylight lasts,
+So long what thou didst hear of her, sole spouse
+Of the Great Spirit, and on which thou turn'dst
+To me for comment, is the general theme
+Of all our prayers: but when it darkens, then
+A different strain we utter, then record
+Pygmalion, whom his gluttonous thirst of gold
+Made traitor, robber, parricide: the woes
+Of Midas, which his greedy wish ensued,
+Mark'd for derision to all future times:
+And the fond Achan, how he stole the prey,
+That yet he seems by Joshua's ire pursued.
+Sapphira with her husband next, we blame;
+And praise the forefeet, that with furious ramp
+Spurn'd Heliodorus.  All the mountain round
+Rings with the infamy of Thracia's king,
+Who slew his Phrygian charge: and last a shout
+Ascends: "Declare, O Crassus! for thou know'st,
+The flavour of thy gold."  The voice of each
+Now high now low, as each his impulse prompts,
+Is led through many a pitch, acute or grave.
+Therefore, not singly, I erewhile rehears'd
+That blessedness we tell of in the day:
+But near me none beside his accent rais'd."
+
+From him we now had parted, and essay'd
+With utmost efforts to surmount the way,
+When I did feel, as nodding to its fall,
+The mountain tremble; whence an icy chill
+Seiz'd on me, as on one to death convey'd.
+So shook not Delos, when Latona there
+Couch'd to bring forth the twin-born eyes of heaven.
+
+Forthwith from every side a shout arose
+So vehement, that suddenly my guide
+Drew near, and cried: "Doubt not, while I conduct thee."
+"Glory!" all shouted (such the sounds mine ear
+Gather'd from those, who near me swell'd the sounds)
+"Glory in the highest be to God."  We stood
+Immovably suspended, like to those,
+The shepherds, who first heard in Bethlehem's field
+That song: till ceas'd the trembling, and the song
+Was ended: then our hallow'd path resum'd,
+Eying the prostrate shadows, who renew'd
+Their custom'd mourning.  Never in my breast
+Did ignorance so struggle with desire
+Of knowledge, if my memory do not err,
+As in that moment; nor through haste dar'd I
+To question, nor myself could aught discern,
+So on I far'd in thoughtfulness and dread.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXI
+
+The natural thirst, ne'er quench'd but from the well,
+Whereof the woman of Samaria crav'd,
+Excited: haste along the cumber'd path,
+After my guide, impell'd; and pity mov'd
+My bosom for the 'vengeful deed, though just.
+When lo! even as Luke relates, that Christ
+Appear'd unto the two upon their way,
+New-risen from his vaulted grave; to us
+A shade appear'd, and after us approach'd,
+Contemplating the crowd beneath its feet.
+We were not ware of it; so first it spake,
+Saying, "God give you peace, my brethren!" then
+Sudden we turn'd: and Virgil such salute,
+As fitted that kind greeting, gave, and cried:
+"Peace in the blessed council be thy lot
+Awarded by that righteous court, which me
+To everlasting banishment exiles!"
+
+"How!" he exclaim'd, nor from his speed meanwhile
+Desisting, "If that ye be spirits, whom God
+Vouchsafes not room above, who up the height
+Has been thus far your guide?"  To whom the bard:
+"If thou observe the tokens, which this man
+Trac'd by the finger of the angel bears,
+'Tis plain that in the kingdom of the just
+He needs must share.  But sithence she, whose wheel
+Spins day and night, for him not yet had drawn
+That yarn, which, on the fatal distaff pil'd,
+Clotho apportions to each wight that breathes,
+His soul, that sister is to mine and thine,
+Not of herself could mount, for not like ours
+Her ken: whence I, from forth the ample gulf
+Of hell was ta'en, to lead him, and will lead
+Far as my lore avails.  But, if thou know,
+Instruct us for what cause, the mount erewhile
+Thus shook and trembled: wherefore all at once
+Seem'd shouting, even from his wave-wash'd foot."
+
+That questioning so tallied with my wish,
+The thirst did feel abatement of its edge
+E'en from expectance.  He forthwith replied,
+"In its devotion nought irregular
+This mount can witness, or by punctual rule
+Unsanction'd; here from every change exempt.
+Other than that, which heaven in itself
+Doth of itself receive, no influence
+Can reach us.  Tempest none, shower, hail or snow,
+Hoar frost or dewy moistness, higher falls
+Than that brief scale of threefold steps: thick clouds
+Nor scudding rack are ever seen: swift glance
+Ne'er lightens, nor Thaumantian Iris gleams,
+That yonder often shift on each side heav'n.
+Vapour adust doth never mount above
+The highest of the trinal stairs, whereon
+Peter's vicegerent stands.  Lower perchance,
+With various motion rock'd, trembles the soil:
+But here, through wind in earth's deep hollow pent,
+I know not how, yet never trembled: then
+Trembles, when any spirit feels itself
+So purified, that it may rise, or move
+For rising, and such loud acclaim ensues.
+Purification by the will alone
+Is prov'd, that free to change society
+Seizes the soul rejoicing in her will.
+Desire of bliss is present from the first;
+But strong propension hinders, to that wish
+By the just ordinance of heav'n oppos'd;
+Propension now as eager to fulfil
+Th' allotted torment, as erewhile to sin.
+And I who in this punishment had lain
+Five hundred years and more, but now have felt
+Free wish for happier clime.  Therefore thou felt'st
+The mountain tremble, and the spirits devout
+Heard'st, over all his limits, utter praise
+To that liege Lord, whom I entreat their joy
+To hasten."  Thus he spake: and since the draught
+Is grateful ever as the thirst is keen,
+No words may speak my fullness of content.
+
+"Now," said the instructor sage, "I see the net
+That takes ye here, and how the toils are loos'd,
+Why rocks the mountain and why ye rejoice.
+Vouchsafe, that from thy lips I next may learn,
+Who on the earth thou wast, and wherefore here
+So many an age wert prostrate."--"In that time,
+When the good Titus, with Heav'n's King to help,
+Aveng'd those piteous gashes, whence the blood
+By Judas sold did issue, with the name
+Most lasting and most honour'd there was I
+Abundantly renown'd," the shade reply'd,
+"Not yet with faith endued.  So passing sweet
+My vocal Spirit, from Tolosa, Rome
+To herself drew me, where I merited
+A myrtle garland to inwreathe my brow.
+Statius they name me still.  Of Thebes I sang,
+And next of great Achilles: but i' th' way
+Fell with the second burthen.  Of my flame
+Those sparkles were the seeds, which I deriv'd
+From the bright fountain of celestial fire
+That feeds unnumber'd lamps, the song I mean
+Which sounds Aeneas' wand'rings: that the breast
+I hung at, that the nurse, from whom my veins
+Drank inspiration: whose authority
+Was ever sacred with me.  To have liv'd
+Coeval with the Mantuan, I would bide
+The revolution of another sun
+Beyond my stated years in banishment."
+
+The Mantuan, when he heard him, turn'd to me,
+And holding silence: by his countenance
+Enjoin'd me silence but the power which wills,
+Bears not supreme control: laughter and tears
+Follow so closely on the passion prompts them,
+They wait not for the motions of the will
+In natures most sincere.  I did but smile,
+As one who winks; and thereupon the shade
+Broke off, and peer'd into mine eyes, where best
+Our looks interpret. "So to good event
+Mayst thou conduct such great emprize," he cried,
+"Say, why across thy visage beam'd, but now,
+The lightning of a smile!"  On either part
+Now am I straiten'd; one conjures me speak,
+Th' other to silence binds me: whence a sigh
+I utter, and the sigh is heard.  "Speak on;"
+The teacher cried; "and do not fear to speak,
+But tell him what so earnestly he asks."
+Whereon I thus: "Perchance, O ancient spirit!
+Thou marvel'st at my smiling. There is room
+For yet more wonder.  He who guides my ken
+On high, he is that Mantuan, led by whom
+Thou didst presume of men and gods to sing.
+If other cause thou deem'dst for which I smil'd,
+Leave it as not the true one; and believe
+Those words, thou spak'st of him, indeed the cause."
+
+Now down he bent t' embrace my teacher's feet;
+But he forbade him: "Brother! do it not:
+Thou art a shadow, and behold'st a shade."
+He rising answer'd thus: "Now hast thou prov'd
+The force and ardour of the love I bear thee,
+When I forget we are but things of air,
+And as a substance treat an empty shade."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXII
+
+Now we had left the angel, who had turn'd
+To the sixth circle our ascending step,
+One gash from off my forehead raz'd: while they,
+Whose wishes tend to justice, shouted forth:
+"Blessed!"  and ended with, "I thirst:" and I,
+More nimble than along the other straits,
+So journey'd, that, without the sense of toil,
+I follow'd upward the swift-footed shades;
+When Virgil thus began: "Let its pure flame
+From virtue flow, and love can never fail
+To warm another's bosom' so the light
+Shine manifestly forth.  Hence from that hour,
+When 'mongst us in the purlieus of the deep,
+Came down the spirit of Aquinum's hard,
+Who told of thine affection, my good will
+Hath been for thee of quality as strong
+As ever link'd itself to one not seen.
+Therefore these stairs will now seem short to me.
+But tell me: and if too secure I loose
+The rein with a friend's license, as a friend
+Forgive me, and speak now as with a friend:
+How chanc'd it covetous desire could find
+Place in that bosom, 'midst such ample store
+Of wisdom, as thy zeal had treasur'd there?"
+
+First somewhat mov'd to laughter by his words,
+Statius replied: "Each syllable of thine
+Is a dear pledge of love.  Things oft appear
+That minister false matters to our doubts,
+When their true causes are remov'd from sight.
+Thy question doth assure me, thou believ'st
+I was on earth a covetous man, perhaps
+Because thou found'st me in that circle plac'd.
+Know then I was too wide of avarice:
+And e'en for that excess, thousands of moons
+Have wax'd and wan'd upon my sufferings.
+And were it not that I with heedful care
+Noted where thou exclaim'st as if in ire
+With human nature, 'Why, thou cursed thirst
+Of gold! dost not with juster measure guide
+The appetite of mortals?'  I had met
+The fierce encounter of the voluble rock.
+Then was I ware that with too ample wing
+The hands may haste to lavishment, and turn'd,
+As from my other evil, so from this
+In penitence.  How many from their grave
+Shall with shorn locks arise, who living, aye
+And at life's last extreme, of this offence,
+Through ignorance, did not repent.  And know,
+The fault which lies direct from any sin
+In level opposition, here With that
+Wastes its green rankness on one common heap.
+Therefore if I have been with those, who wail
+Their avarice, to cleanse me, through reverse
+Of their transgression, such hath been my lot."
+
+To whom the sovran of the pastoral song:
+"While thou didst sing that cruel warfare wag'd
+By the twin sorrow of Jocasta's womb,
+From thy discourse with Clio there, it seems
+As faith had not been shine: without the which
+Good deeds suffice not.  And if so, what sun
+Rose on thee, or what candle pierc'd the dark
+That thou didst after see to hoist the sail,
+And follow, where the fisherman had led?"
+
+He answering thus: "By thee conducted first,
+I enter'd the Parnassian grots, and quaff'd
+Of the clear spring; illumin'd first by thee
+Open'd mine eyes to God.  Thou didst, as one,
+Who, journeying through the darkness, hears a light
+Behind, that profits not himself, but makes
+His followers wise, when thou exclaimedst, 'Lo!
+A renovated world!  Justice return'd!
+Times of primeval innocence restor'd!
+And a new race descended from above!'
+Poet and Christian both to thee I owed.
+That thou mayst mark more clearly what I trace,
+My hand shall stretch forth to inform the lines
+With livelier colouring.  Soon o'er all the world,
+By messengers from heav'n, the true belief
+Teem'd now prolific, and that word of thine
+Accordant, to the new instructors chim'd.
+Induc'd by which agreement, I was wont
+Resort to them; and soon their sanctity
+So won upon me, that, Domitian's rage
+Pursuing them, I mix'd my tears with theirs,
+And, while on earth I stay'd, still succour'd them;
+And their most righteous customs made me scorn
+All sects besides.  Before I led the Greeks
+In tuneful fiction, to the streams of Thebes,
+I was baptiz'd; but secretly, through fear,
+Remain'd a Christian, and conform'd long time
+To Pagan rites.  Five centuries and more,
+T for that lukewarmness was fain to pace
+Round the fourth circle.  Thou then, who hast rais'd
+The covering, which did hide such blessing from me,
+Whilst much of this ascent is yet to climb,
+Say, if thou know, where our old Terence bides,
+Caecilius, Plautus, Varro: if condemn'd
+They dwell, and in what province of the deep."
+"These," said my guide, "with Persius and myself,
+And others many more, are with that Greek,
+Of mortals, the most cherish'd by the Nine,
+In the first ward of darkness.  There ofttimes
+We of that mount hold converse, on whose top
+For aye our nurses live.  We have the bard
+Of Pella, and the Teian, Agatho,
+Simonides, and many a Grecian else
+Ingarlanded with laurel.  Of thy train
+Antigone is there, Deiphile,
+Argia, and as sorrowful as erst
+Ismene, and who show'd Langia's wave:
+Deidamia with her sisters there,
+And blind Tiresias' daughter, and the bride
+Sea-born of Peleus."  Either poet now
+Was silent, and no longer by th' ascent
+Or the steep walls obstructed, round them cast
+Inquiring eyes.  Four handmaids of the day
+Had finish'd now their office, and the fifth
+Was at the chariot-beam, directing still
+Its balmy point aloof, when thus my guide:
+"Methinks, it well behooves us to the brink
+Bend the right shoulder' circuiting the mount,
+As we have ever us'd."  So custom there
+Was usher to the road, the which we chose
+Less doubtful, as that worthy shade complied.
+
+They on before me went; I sole pursued,
+List'ning their speech, that to my thoughts convey'd
+Mysterious lessons of sweet poesy.
+But soon they ceas'd; for midway of the road
+A tree we found, with goodly fruitage hung,
+And pleasant to the smell: and as a fir
+Upward from bough to bough less ample spreads,
+So downward this less ample spread, that none.
+Methinks, aloft may climb.  Upon the side,
+That clos'd our path, a liquid crystal fell
+From the steep rock, and through the sprays above
+Stream'd showering.  With associate step the bards
+Drew near the plant; and from amidst the leaves
+A voice was heard: "Ye shall be chary of me;"
+And after added: "Mary took more thought
+For joy and honour of the nuptial feast,
+Than for herself who answers now for you.
+The women of old Rome were satisfied
+With water for their beverage.  Daniel fed
+On pulse, and wisdom gain'd.  The primal age
+Was beautiful as gold; and hunger then
+Made acorns tasteful, thirst each rivulet
+Run nectar.  Honey and locusts were the food,
+Whereon the Baptist in the wilderness
+Fed, and that eminence of glory reach'd
+And greatness, which the' Evangelist records."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXIII
+
+On the green leaf mine eyes were fix'd, like his
+Who throws away his days in idle chase
+Of the diminutive, when thus I heard
+The more than father warn me: "Son! our time
+Asks thriftier using.  Linger not: away."
+
+Thereat my face and steps at once I turn'd
+Toward the sages, by whose converse cheer'd
+I journey'd on, and felt no toil: and lo!
+A sound of weeping and a song: "My lips,
+O Lord!" and these so mingled, it gave birth
+To pleasure and to pain.  "O Sire, belov'd!
+Say what is this I hear?"  Thus I inquir'd.
+
+"Spirits," said he, "who as they go, perchance,
+Their debt of duty pay."  As on their road
+The thoughtful pilgrims, overtaking some
+Not known unto them, turn to them, and look,
+But stay not; thus, approaching from behind
+With speedier motion, eyed us, as they pass'd,
+A crowd of spirits, silent and devout.
+The eyes of each were dark and hollow: pale
+Their visage, and so lean withal, the bones
+Stood staring thro' the skin.  I do not think
+Thus dry and meagre Erisicthon show'd,
+When pinc'ed by sharp-set famine to the quick.
+
+"Lo!" to myself I mus'd, "the race, who lost
+Jerusalem, when Mary with dire beak
+Prey'd on her child."  The sockets seem'd as rings,
+From which the gems were drops.  Who reads the name
+Of man upon his forehead, there the M
+Had trac'd most plainly.  Who would deem, that scent
+Of water and an apple, could have prov'd
+Powerful to generate such pining want,
+Not knowing how it wrought?  While now I stood
+Wond'ring what thus could waste them (for the cause
+Of their gaunt hollowness and scaly rind
+Appear'd not) lo! a spirit turn'd his eyes
+In their deep-sunken cell, and fasten'd then
+On me, then cried with vehemence aloud:
+"What grace is this vouchsaf'd me?"  By his looks
+I ne'er had recogniz'd him: but the voice
+Brought to my knowledge what his cheer conceal'd.
+Remembrance of his alter'd lineaments
+Was kindled from that spark; and I agniz'd
+The visage of Forese.  "Ah! respect
+This wan and leprous wither'd skin," thus he
+Suppliant implor'd, "this macerated flesh.
+Speak to me truly of thyself.  And who
+Are those twain spirits, that escort thee there?
+Be it not said thou Scorn'st to talk with me."
+
+"That face of thine," I answer'd him, "which dead
+I once bewail'd, disposes me not less
+For weeping, when I see It thus transform'd.
+Say then, by Heav'n, what blasts ye thus?  The whilst
+I wonder, ask not Speech from me: unapt
+Is he to speak, whom other will employs."
+
+He thus: "The water and tee plant we pass'd,
+Virtue possesses, by th' eternal will
+Infus'd, the which so pines me.  Every spirit,
+Whose song bewails his gluttony indulg'd
+Too grossly, here in hunger and in thirst
+Is purified.  The odour, which the fruit,
+And spray, that showers upon the verdure, breathe,
+Inflames us with desire to feed and drink.
+Nor once alone encompassing our route
+We come to add fresh fuel to the pain:
+Pain, said Iolace rather: for that will
+To the tree leads us, by which Christ was led
+To call Elias, joyful when he paid
+Our ransom from his vein."  I answering thus:
+"Forese! from that day, in which the world
+For better life thou changedst, not five years
+Have circled.  If the power of sinning more
+Were first concluded in thee, ere thou knew'st
+That kindly grief, which re-espouses us
+To God, how hither art thou come so soon?
+I thought to find thee lower, there, where time
+Is recompense for time."  He straight replied:
+"To drink up the sweet wormwood of affliction
+I have been brought thus early by the tears
+Stream'd down my Nella's cheeks.  Her prayers devout,
+Her sighs have drawn me from the coast, where oft
+Expectance lingers, and have set me free
+From th' other circles.  In the sight of God
+So much the dearer is my widow priz'd,
+She whom I lov'd so fondly, as she ranks
+More singly eminent for virtuous deeds.
+The tract most barb'rous of Sardinia's isle,
+Hath dames more chaste and modester by far
+Than that wherein I left her.  O sweet brother!
+What wouldst thou have me say?  A time to come
+Stands full within my view, to which this hour
+Shall not be counted of an ancient date,
+When from the pulpit shall be loudly warn'd
+Th' unblushing dames of Florence, lest they bare
+Unkerchief'd bosoms to the common gaze.
+What savage women hath the world e'er seen,
+What Saracens, for whom there needed scourge
+Of spiritual or other discipline,
+To force them walk with cov'ring on their limbs!
+But did they see, the shameless ones, that Heav'n
+Wafts on swift wing toward them, while I speak,
+Their mouths were op'd for howling: they shall taste
+Of Borrow (unless foresight cheat me here)
+Or ere the cheek of him be cloth'd with down
+Who is now rock'd with lullaby asleep.
+Ah! now, my brother, hide thyself no more,
+Thou seest how not I alone but all
+Gaze, where thou veil'st the intercepted sun."
+
+Whence I replied: "If thou recall to mind
+What we were once together, even yet
+Remembrance of those days may grieve thee sore.
+That I forsook that life, was due to him
+Who there precedes me, some few evenings past,
+When she was round, who shines with sister lamp
+To his, that glisters yonder," and I show'd
+The sun.  "Tis he, who through profoundest night
+Of he true dead has brought me, with this flesh
+As true, that follows.  From that gloom the aid
+Of his sure comfort drew me on to climb,
+And climbing wind along this mountain-steep,
+Which rectifies in you whate'er the world
+Made crooked and deprav'd I have his word,
+That he will bear me company as far
+As till I come where Beatrice dwells:
+But there must leave me.  Virgil is that spirit,
+Who thus hath promis'd,"  and I pointed to him;
+"The other is that shade, for whom so late
+Your realm, as he arose, exulting shook
+Through every pendent cliff and rocky bound."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXIV
+
+Our journey was not slacken'd by our talk,
+Nor yet our talk by journeying.  Still we spake,
+And urg'd our travel stoutly, like a ship
+When the wind sits astern.  The shadowy forms,
+
+That seem'd things dead and dead again, drew in
+At their deep-delved orbs rare wonder of me,
+Perceiving I had life; and I my words
+Continued, and thus spake; "He journeys up
+Perhaps more tardily then else he would,
+For others' sake.  But tell me, if thou know'st,
+Where is Piccarda?  Tell me, if I see
+Any of mark, among this multitude,
+Who eye me thus."--"My sister (she for whom,
+'Twixt beautiful and good I cannot say
+Which name was fitter ) wears e'en now her crown,
+And triumphs in Olympus."  Saying this,
+He added: "Since spare diet hath so worn
+Our semblance out, 't is lawful here to name
+Each one.  This," and his finger then he rais'd,
+"Is Buonaggiuna,--Buonaggiuna, he
+Of Lucca: and that face beyond him, pierc'd
+Unto a leaner fineness than the rest,
+Had keeping of the church: he was of Tours,
+And purges by wan abstinence away
+Bolsena's eels and cups of muscadel."
+
+He show'd me many others, one by one,
+And all, as they were nam'd, seem'd well content;
+For no dark gesture I discern'd in any.
+I saw through hunger Ubaldino grind
+His teeth on emptiness; and Boniface,
+That wav'd the crozier o'er a num'rous flock.
+I saw the Marquis, who tad time erewhile
+To swill at Forli with less drought, yet so
+Was one ne'er sated.  I howe'er, like him,
+That gazing 'midst a crowd, singles out one,
+So singled him of Lucca; for methought
+Was none amongst them took such note of me.
+Somewhat I heard him whisper of Gentucca:
+The sound was indistinct, and murmur'd there,
+Where justice, that so strips them, fix'd her sting.
+
+"Spirit!" said I, "it seems as thou wouldst fain
+Speak with me.  Let me hear thee.  Mutual wish
+To converse prompts, which let us both indulge."
+
+He, answ'ring, straight began: "Woman is born,
+Whose brow no wimple shades yet, that shall make
+My city please thee, blame it as they may.
+Go then with this forewarning.  If aught false
+My whisper too implied, th' event shall tell
+But say, if of a  truth I see the man
+Of that new lay th' inventor, which begins
+With 'Ladies, ye that con the lore of love'."
+
+To whom I thus: "Count of me but as one
+Who am the scribe of love; that, when he breathes,
+Take up my pen, and, as he dictates, write."
+
+"Brother!" said he, "the hind'rance which once held
+The notary with Guittone and myself,
+Short of that new and sweeter style I hear,
+Is now disclos'd.  I see how ye your plumes
+Stretch, as th' inditer guides them; which, no question,
+Ours did not.  He that seeks a grace beyond,
+Sees not the distance parts one style from other."
+And, as contented, here he held his peace.
+
+Like as the bird, that winter near the Nile,
+In squared regiment direct their course,
+Then stretch themselves in file for speedier flight;
+Thus all the tribe of spirits, as they turn'd
+Their visage, faster deaf, nimble alike
+Through leanness and desire.  And as a man,
+Tir'd With the motion of a trotting steed,
+Slacks pace, and stays behind his company,
+Till his o'erbreathed lungs keep temperate time;
+E'en so Forese let that holy crew
+Proceed, behind them lingering at my side,
+And saying: "When shall I again behold thee?"
+
+"How long my life may last," said I, "I know not;
+This know, how soon soever I return,
+My wishes will before me have arriv'd.
+Sithence the place, where I am set to live,
+Is, day by day, more scoop'd of all its good,
+And dismal ruin seems to threaten it."
+
+"Go now," he cried: "lo! he, whose guilt is most,
+Passes before my vision, dragg'd at heels
+Of an infuriate beast.  Toward the vale,
+Where guilt hath no redemption, on it speeds,
+Each step increasing swiftness on the last;
+Until a blow it strikes, that leaveth him
+A corse most vilely shatter'd.  No long space
+Those wheels have yet to roll"  (therewith his eyes
+Look'd up to heav'n) "ere thou shalt plainly see
+That which my words may not more plainly tell.
+I quit thee: time is precious here: I lose
+Too much, thus measuring my pace with shine."
+
+As from a troop of well-rank'd chivalry
+One knight, more enterprising than the rest,
+Pricks forth at gallop, eager to display
+His prowess in the first encounter prov'd
+So parted he from us with lengthen'd strides,
+And left me on the way with those twain spirits,
+Who were such mighty marshals of the world.
+
+When he beyond us had so fled mine eyes
+No nearer reach'd him, than my thought his words,
+The branches of another fruit, thick hung,
+And blooming fresh, appear'd.  E'en as our steps
+Turn'd thither, not far off it rose to view.
+Beneath it were a multitude, that rais'd
+Their hands, and shouted forth I know not What
+Unto the boughs; like greedy and fond brats,
+That beg, and answer none obtain from him,
+Of whom they beg; but more to draw them on,
+He at arm's length the object of their wish
+Above them holds aloft, and hides it not.
+
+At length, as undeceiv'd they went their way:
+And we approach the tree, who vows and tears
+Sue to in vain, the mighty tree.  "Pass on,
+And come not near.  Stands higher up the wood,
+Whereof Eve tasted, and from it was ta'en
+'this plant." Such sounds from midst the thickets came.
+Whence I, with either bard, close to the side
+That rose, pass'd forth beyond.  "Remember," next
+We heard, "those noblest creatures of the clouds,
+How they their twofold bosoms overgorg'd
+Oppos'd in fight to Theseus: call to mind
+The Hebrews, how effeminate they stoop'd
+To ease their thirst; whence Gideon's ranks were thinn'd,
+As he to Midian march'd adown the hills."
+
+Thus near one border coasting, still we heard
+The sins of gluttony, with woe erewhile
+Reguerdon'd.  Then along the lonely path,
+Once more at large, full thousand paces on
+We travel'd, each contemplative and mute.
+
+"Why pensive journey thus ye three alone?"
+Thus suddenly a voice exclaim'd: whereat
+I shook, as doth a scar'd and paltry beast;
+Then rais'd my head to look from whence it came.
+
+Was ne'er, in furnace, glass, or metal seen
+So bright and glowing red, as was the shape
+I now beheld.  "If ye desire to mount,"
+He cried, "here must ye turn.  This way he goes,
+Who goes in quest of peace."  His countenance
+Had dazzled me; and to my guides I fac'd
+Backward, like one who walks, as sound directs.
+
+As when, to harbinger the dawn, springs up
+On freshen'd wing the air of May, and breathes
+Of fragrance, all impregn'd with herb and flowers,
+E'en such a wind I felt upon my front
+Blow gently, and the moving of a wing
+Perceiv'd, that moving shed ambrosial smell;
+And then a voice: "Blessed are they, whom grace
+Doth so illume, that appetite in them
+Exhaleth no inordinate desire,
+Still hung'ring as the rule of temperance wills."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXV
+
+It was an hour, when he who climbs, had need
+To walk uncrippled: for the sun had now
+To Taurus the meridian circle left,
+And to the Scorpion left the night.  As one
+That makes no pause, but presses on his road,
+Whate'er betide him, if some urgent need
+Impel: so enter'd we upon our way,
+One before other; for, but singly, none
+That steep and narrow scale admits to climb.
+
+E'en as the young stork lifteth up his wing
+Through wish to fly, yet ventures not to quit
+The nest, and drops it; so in me desire
+Of questioning my guide arose, and fell,
+Arriving even to the act, that marks
+A man prepar'd for speech.  Him all our haste
+Restrain'd not, but thus spake the sire belov'd:
+Fear not to speed the shaft, that on thy lip
+Stands trembling for its flight.  Encourag'd thus
+I straight began: "How there can leanness come,
+Where is no want of nourishment to feed?"
+
+"If thou," he answer'd, "hadst remember'd thee,
+How Meleager with the wasting brand
+Wasted alike, by equal fires consum'd,
+This would not trouble thee: and hadst thou thought,
+How in the mirror your reflected form
+With mimic motion vibrates, what now seems
+Hard, had appear'd no harder than the pulp
+Of summer fruit mature.  But that thy will
+In certainty may find its full repose,
+Lo Statius here! on him I call, and pray
+That he would now be healer of thy wound."
+
+"If in thy presence I unfold to him
+The secrets of heaven's vengeance, let me plead
+Thine own injunction, to exculpate me."
+So Statius answer'd, and forthwith began:
+"Attend my words, O son, and in thy mind
+Receive them: so shall they be light to clear
+The doubt thou offer'st. Blood, concocted well,
+Which by the thirsty veins is ne'er imbib'd,
+And rests as food superfluous, to be ta'en
+From the replenish'd table, in the heart
+Derives effectual virtue, that informs
+The several human limbs, as being that,
+Which passes through the veins itself to make them.
+Yet more concocted it descends, where shame
+Forbids to mention: and from thence distils
+In natural vessel on another's blood.
+Then each unite together, one dispos'd
+T' endure, to act the other, through meet frame
+Of its recipient mould: that being reach'd,
+It 'gins to work, coagulating first;
+Then vivifies what its own substance caus'd
+To bear.  With animation now indued,
+The active virtue (differing from a plant
+No further, than that this is on the way
+And at its limit that) continues yet
+To operate, that now it moves, and feels,
+As sea sponge clinging to the rock: and there
+Assumes th' organic powers its seed convey'd.
+'This is the period, son! at which the virtue,
+That from the generating heart proceeds,
+Is pliant and expansive; for each limb
+Is in the heart by forgeful nature plann'd.
+How babe of animal becomes, remains
+For thy consid'ring.  At this point, more wise,
+Than thou hast err'd, making the soul disjoin'd
+From passive intellect, because he saw
+No organ for the latter's use assign'd.
+
+"Open thy bosom to the truth that comes.
+Know soon as in the embryo, to the brain,
+Articulation is complete, then turns
+The primal Mover with a smile of joy
+On such great work of nature, and imbreathes
+New spirit replete with virtue, that what here
+Active it finds, to its own substance draws,
+And forms an individual soul, that lives,
+And feels, and bends reflective on itself.
+And that thou less mayst marvel at the word,
+Mark the sun's heat, how that to wine doth change,
+Mix'd with the moisture filter'd through the vine.
+
+"When Lachesis hath spun the thread, the soul
+Takes with her both the human and divine,
+Memory, intelligence, and will, in act
+Far keener than before, the other powers
+Inactive all and mute.  No pause allow'd,
+In wond'rous sort self-moving, to one strand
+Of those, where the departed roam, she falls,
+Here learns her destin'd path.  Soon as the place
+Receives her, round the plastic virtue beams,
+Distinct as in the living limbs before:
+And as the air, when saturate with showers,
+The casual beam refracting, decks itself
+With many a hue; so here the ambient air
+Weareth that form, which influence of the soul
+Imprints on it; and like the flame, that where
+The fire moves, thither follows, so henceforth
+The new form on the spirit follows still:
+Hence hath it semblance, and is shadow call'd,
+With each sense even to the sight endued:
+Hence speech is ours, hence laughter, tears, and sighs
+Which thou mayst oft have witness'd on the mount
+Th' obedient shadow fails not to present
+Whatever varying passion moves within us.
+And this the cause of what thou marvel'st at."
+
+Now the last flexure of our way we reach'd,
+And to the right hand turning, other care
+Awaits us.  Here the rocky precipice
+Hurls forth redundant flames, and from the rim
+A blast upblown, with forcible rebuff
+Driveth them back, sequester'd from its bound.
+
+Behoov'd us, one by one, along the side,
+That border'd on the void, to pass; and I
+Fear'd on one hand the fire, on th' other fear'd
+Headlong to fall: when thus th' instructor warn'd:
+"Strict rein must in this place direct the eyes.
+A little swerving and the way is lost."
+
+Then from the bosom of the burning mass,
+"O God of mercy!" heard I sung; and felt
+No less desire to turn.  And when I saw
+Spirits along the flame proceeding, I
+Between their footsteps and mine own was fain
+To share by turns my view.  At the hymn's close
+They shouted loud, "I do not know a man;"
+Then in low voice again took up the strain,
+Which once more ended, "To the wood," they cried,
+"Ran Dian, and drave forth Callisto, stung
+With Cytherea's poison:" then return'd
+Unto their song; then marry a pair extoll'd,
+Who liv'd in virtue chastely, and the bands
+Of wedded love.  Nor from that task, I ween,
+Surcease they; whilesoe'er the scorching fire
+Enclasps them.  Of such skill appliance needs
+To medicine the wound, that healeth last.
+
+
+CANTO XXVI
+
+While singly thus along the rim we walk'd,
+Oft the good master warn'd me: "Look thou well.
+Avail it that I caution thee."  The sun
+Now all the western clime irradiate chang'd
+From azure tinct to white; and, as I pass'd,
+My passing shadow made the umber'd flame
+Burn ruddier.  At so strange a sight I mark'd
+That many a spirit marvel'd on his way.
+
+This bred occasion first to speak of me,
+"He seems," said they, "no insubstantial frame:"
+Then to obtain what certainty they might,
+Stretch'd towards me, careful not to overpass
+The burning pale.  "O thou, who followest
+The others, haply not more slow than they,
+But mov'd by rev'rence, answer me, who burn
+In thirst and fire: nor I alone, but these
+All for thine answer do more thirst, than doth
+Indian or Aethiop for the cooling stream.
+Tell us, how is it that thou mak'st thyself
+A wall against the sun, as thou not yet
+Into th' inextricable toils of death
+Hadst enter'd?"  Thus spake one, and I had straight
+Declar'd me, if attention had not turn'd
+To new appearance.  Meeting these, there came,
+Midway the burning path, a crowd, on whom
+Earnestly gazing, from each part I view
+The shadows all press forward, sev'rally
+Each snatch a hasty kiss, and then away.
+E'en so the emmets, 'mid their dusky troops,
+Peer closely one at other, to spy out
+Their mutual road perchance, and how they thrive.
+
+That friendly greeting parted, ere dispatch
+Of the first onward step, from either tribe
+Loud clamour rises: those, who newly come,
+Shout "Sodom and Gomorrah!" these, "The cow
+Pasiphae enter'd, that the beast she woo'd
+Might rush unto her luxury."  Then as cranes,
+That part towards the Riphaean mountains fly,
+Part towards the Lybic sands, these to avoid
+The ice, and those the sun; so hasteth off
+One crowd, advances th' other; and resume
+Their first song weeping, and their several shout.
+
+Again drew near my side the very same,
+Who had erewhile besought me, and their looks
+Mark'd eagerness to listen.  I, who twice
+Their will had noted, spake: "O spirits secure,
+Whene'er the time may be, of peaceful end!
+My limbs, nor crude, nor in mature old age,
+Have I left yonder: here they bear me, fed
+With blood, and sinew-strung.  That I no more
+May live in blindness, hence I tend aloft.
+There is a dame on high, who wind for us
+This grace, by which my mortal through your realm
+I bear.  But may your utmost wish soon meet
+Such full fruition, that the orb of heaven,
+Fullest of love, and of most ample space,
+Receive you, as ye tell (upon my page
+Henceforth to stand recorded) who ye are,
+And what this multitude, that at your backs
+Have past behind us."  As one, mountain-bred,
+Rugged and clownish, if some city's walls
+He chance to enter, round him stares agape,
+Confounded and struck dumb; e'en such appear'd
+Each spirit.  But when rid of that amaze,
+(Not long the inmate of a noble heart)
+He, who before had question'd, thus resum'd:
+"O blessed, who, for death preparing, tak'st
+Experience of our limits, in thy bark!
+Their crime, who not with us proceed, was that,
+For which, as he did triumph, Caesar heard
+The snout of 'queen,' to taunt him.  Hence their cry
+Of 'Sodom,' as they parted, to rebuke
+Themselves, and aid the burning by their shame.
+Our sinning was Hermaphrodite: but we,
+Because the law of human kind we broke,
+Following like beasts our vile concupiscence,
+Hence parting from them, to our own disgrace
+Record the name of her, by whom the beast
+In bestial tire was acted.  Now our deeds
+Thou know'st, and how we sinn'd.  If thou by name
+Wouldst haply know us, time permits not now
+To tell so much, nor can I.  Of myself
+Learn what thou wishest.  Guinicelli I,
+Who having truly sorrow'd ere my last,
+Already cleanse me."  With such pious joy,
+As the two sons upon their mother gaz'd
+From sad Lycurgus rescu'd, such my joy
+(Save that I more represt it) when I heard
+From his own lips the name of him pronounc'd,
+Who was a father to me, and to those
+My betters, who have ever us'd the sweet
+And pleasant rhymes of love.  So nought I heard
+Nor spake, but long time thoughtfully I went,
+Gazing on him; and, only for the fire,
+Approach'd not nearer.  When my eyes were fed
+By looking on him, with such solemn pledge,
+As forces credence, I devoted me
+Unto his service wholly.  In reply
+He thus bespake me: "What from thee I hear
+Is grav'd so deeply on my mind, the waves
+Of Lethe shall not wash it off, nor make
+A whit less lively.  But as now thy oath
+Has seal'd the truth, declare what cause impels
+That love, which both thy looks and speech bewray."
+
+"Those dulcet lays," I answer'd, "which, as long
+As of our tongue the beauty does not fade,
+Shall make us love the very ink that trac'd them."
+
+"Brother!"  he cried, and pointed at a shade
+Before him, "there is one, whose mother speech
+Doth owe to him a fairer ornament.
+He in love ditties and the tales of prose
+Without a rival stands, and lets the fools
+Talk on, who think the songster of Limoges
+O'ertops him.  Rumour and the popular voice
+They look to more than truth, and so confirm
+Opinion, ere by art or reason taught.
+Thus many of the elder time cried up
+Guittone, giving him the prize, till truth
+By strength of numbers vanquish'd.  If thou own
+So ample privilege, as to have gain'd
+Free entrance to the cloister, whereof Christ
+Is Abbot of the college, say to him
+One paternoster for me, far as needs
+For dwellers in this world, where power to sin
+No longer tempts us."  Haply to make way
+For one, that follow'd next, when that was said,
+He vanish'd through the fire, as through the wave
+A fish, that glances diving to the deep.
+
+I, to the spirit he had shown me, drew
+A little onward, and besought his name,
+For which my heart, I said, kept gracious room.
+He frankly thus began: "Thy courtesy
+So wins on me, I have nor power nor will
+To hide me.  I am Arnault; and with songs,
+Sorely lamenting for my folly past,
+Thorough this ford of fire I wade, and see
+The day, I hope for, smiling in my view.
+I pray ye by the worth that guides ye up
+Unto the summit of the scale, in time
+Remember ye my suff'rings."  With such words
+He disappear'd in the refining flame.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXVII
+
+Now was the sun so station'd, as when first
+His early radiance quivers on the heights,
+Where stream'd his Maker's blood, while Libra hangs
+Above Hesperian Ebro, and new fires
+Meridian flash on Ganges' yellow tide.
+
+So day was sinking, when the' angel of God
+Appear'd before us.  Joy was in his mien.
+Forth of the flame he stood upon the brink,
+And with a voice, whose lively clearness far
+Surpass'd our human, "Blessed are the pure
+In heart," he Sang: then near him as we came,
+"Go ye not further, holy spirits!"  he cried,
+"Ere the fire pierce you: enter in; and list
+Attentive to the song ye hear from thence."
+
+I, when I heard his saying, was as one
+Laid in the grave.  My hands together clasp'd,
+And upward stretching, on the fire I look'd,
+And busy fancy conjur'd up the forms
+Erewhile beheld alive consum'd in flames.
+
+Th' escorting spirits turn'd with gentle looks
+Toward me, and the Mantuan spake: "My son,
+Here torment thou mayst feel, but canst not death.
+Remember thee, remember thee, if I
+Safe e'en on Geryon brought thee: now I come
+More near to God, wilt thou not trust me now?
+Of this be sure: though in its womb that flame
+A thousand years contain'd thee, from thy head
+No hair should perish.  If thou doubt my truth,
+Approach, and with thy hands thy vesture's hem
+Stretch forth, and for thyself confirm belief.
+Lay now all fear, O lay all fear aside.
+Turn hither, and come onward undismay'd."
+I still, though conscience urg'd' no step advanc'd.
+
+When still he saw me fix'd and obstinate,
+Somewhat disturb'd he cried: "Mark now, my son,
+From Beatrice thou art by this wall
+Divided."  As at Thisbe's name the eye
+Of Pyramus was open'd (when life ebb'd
+Fast from his veins), and took one parting glance,
+While vermeil dyed the mulberry; thus I turn'd
+To my sage guide, relenting, when I heard
+The name, that springs forever in my breast.
+
+He shook his forehead; and, "How long," he said,
+"Linger we now?"  then smil'd, as one would smile
+Upon a child, that eyes the fruit and yields.
+Into the fire before me then he walk'd;
+And Statius, who erewhile no little space
+Had parted us, he pray'd to come behind.
+
+I would have cast me into molten glass
+To cool me, when I enter'd; so intense
+Rag'd the conflagrant mass.  The sire belov'd,
+To comfort me, as he proceeded, still
+Of Beatrice talk'd.  "Her eyes," saith he,
+"E'en now I seem to view."  From the other side
+A voice, that sang, did guide us, and the voice
+Following, with heedful ear, we issued forth,
+There where the path led upward.  "Come," we heard,
+"Come, blessed of my Father."  Such the sounds,
+That hail'd us from within a light, which shone
+So radiant, I could not endure the view.
+"The sun," it added, "hastes: and evening comes.
+Delay not: ere the western sky is hung
+With blackness, strive ye for the pass."  Our way
+Upright within the rock arose, and fac'd
+Such part of heav'n, that from before my steps
+The beams were shrouded of the sinking sun.
+
+Nor many stairs were overpass, when now
+By fading of the shadow we perceiv'd
+The sun behind us couch'd: and ere one face
+Of darkness o'er its measureless expanse
+Involv'd th' horizon, and the night her lot
+Held individual, each of us had made
+A stair his pallet: not that will, but power,
+Had fail'd us, by the nature of that mount
+Forbidden further travel.  As the goats,
+That late have skipp'd and wanton'd rapidly
+Upon the craggy cliffs, ere they had ta'en
+Their supper on the herb, now silent lie
+And ruminate beneath the umbrage brown,
+While noonday rages; and the goatherd leans
+Upon his staff, and leaning watches them:
+And as the swain, that lodges out all night
+In quiet by his flock, lest beast of prey
+Disperse them; even so all three abode,
+I as a goat and as the shepherds they,
+Close pent on either side by shelving rock.
+
+A little glimpse of sky was seen above;
+Yet by that little I beheld the stars
+In magnitude and rustle shining forth
+With more than wonted glory.  As I lay,
+Gazing on them, and in that fit of musing,
+Sleep overcame me, sleep, that bringeth oft
+Tidings of future hap.  About the hour,
+As I believe, when Venus from the east
+First lighten'd on the mountain, she whose orb
+Seems always glowing with the fire of love,
+A lady young and beautiful, I dream'd,
+Was passing o'er a lea; and, as she came,
+Methought I saw her ever and anon
+Bending to cull the flowers; and thus she sang:
+"Know ye, whoever of my name would ask,
+That I am Leah: for my brow to weave
+A garland, these fair hands unwearied ply.
+To please me at the crystal mirror, here
+I deck me.  But my sister Rachel, she
+Before her glass abides the livelong day,
+Her radiant eyes beholding, charm'd no less,
+Than I with this delightful task.  Her joy
+In contemplation, as in labour mine."
+
+And now as glimm'ring dawn appear'd, that breaks
+More welcome to the pilgrim still, as he
+Sojourns less distant on his homeward way,
+Darkness from all sides fled, and with it fled
+My slumber; whence I rose and saw my guide
+Already risen.  "That delicious fruit,
+Which through so many a branch the zealous care
+Of mortals roams in quest of, shall this day
+Appease thy hunger."  Such the words I heard
+From Virgil's lip; and never greeting heard
+So pleasant as the sounds.  Within me straight
+Desire so grew upon desire to mount,
+Thenceforward at each step I felt the wings
+Increasing for my flight.  When we had run
+O'er all the ladder to its topmost round,
+As there we stood, on me the Mantuan fix'd
+His eyes, and thus he spake: "Both fires, my son,
+The temporal and eternal, thou hast seen,
+And art arriv'd, where of itself my ken
+No further reaches.  I with skill and art
+Thus far have drawn thee.  Now thy pleasure take
+For guide.  Thou hast o'ercome the steeper way,
+O'ercome the straighter.  Lo! the sun, that darts
+His beam upon thy forehead! lo! the herb,
+The arboreta and flowers, which of itself
+This land pours forth profuse!  Will those bright eyes
+With gladness come, which, weeping, made me haste
+To succour thee, thou mayst or seat thee down,
+Or wander where thou wilt.  Expect no more
+Sanction of warning voice or sign from me,
+Free of thy own arbitrement to choose,
+Discreet, judicious.  To distrust thy sense
+Were henceforth error.  I invest thee then
+With crown and mitre, sovereign o'er thyself."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXVIII
+
+Through that celestial forest, whose thick shade
+With lively greenness the new-springing day
+Attemper'd, eager now to roam, and search
+Its limits round, forthwith I left the bank,
+Along the champain leisurely my way
+Pursuing, o'er the ground, that on all sides
+Delicious odour breath'd.  A pleasant air,
+That intermitted never, never veer'd,
+Smote on my temples, gently, as a wind
+Of softest influence: at which the sprays,
+Obedient all, lean'd trembling to that part
+Where first the holy mountain casts his shade,
+Yet were not so disorder'd, but that still
+Upon their top the feather'd quiristers
+Applied their wonted art, and with full joy
+Welcom'd those hours of prime, and warbled shrill
+Amid the leaves, that to their jocund lays
+inept tenor; even as from branch to branch,
+Along the piney forests on the shore
+Of Chiassi, rolls the gath'ring melody,
+When Eolus hath from his cavern loos'd
+The dripping south.  Already had my steps,
+Though slow, so far into that ancient wood
+Transported me, I could not ken the place
+Where I had enter'd, when behold! my path
+Was bounded by a rill, which to the left
+With little rippling waters bent the grass,
+That issued from its brink.  On earth no wave
+How clean soe'er, that would not seem to have
+Some mixture in itself, compar'd with this,
+Transpicuous, clear; yet darkly on it roll'd,
+Darkly beneath perpetual gloom, which ne'er
+Admits or sun or moon light there to shine.
+
+My feet advanc'd not; but my wond'ring eyes
+Pass'd onward, o'er the streamlet, to survey
+The tender May-bloom, flush'd through many a hue,
+In prodigal variety: and there,
+As object, rising suddenly to view,
+That from our bosom every thought beside
+With the rare marvel chases, I beheld
+A lady all alone, who, singing, went,
+And culling flower from flower, wherewith her way
+Was all o'er painted.  "Lady beautiful!
+Thou, who (if looks, that use to speak the heart,
+Are worthy of our trust), with love's own beam
+Dost warm thee," thus to her my speech I fram'd:
+"Ah! please thee hither towards the streamlet bend
+Thy steps so near, that I may list thy song.
+Beholding thee and this fair place, methinks,
+I call to mind where wander'd and how look'd
+Proserpine, in that season, when her child
+The mother lost, and she the bloomy spring."
+
+As when a lady, turning in the dance,
+Doth foot it featly, and advances scarce
+One step before the other to the ground;
+Over the yellow and vermilion flowers
+Thus turn'd she at my suit, most maiden-like,
+Valing her sober eyes, and came so near,
+That I distinctly caught the dulcet sound.
+Arriving where the limped waters now
+Lav'd the green sward, her eyes she deign'd to raise,
+That shot such splendour on me, as I ween
+Ne'er glanced from Cytherea's, when her son
+Had sped his keenest weapon to her heart.
+Upon the opposite bank she stood and smil'd
+through her graceful fingers shifted still
+The intermingling dyes, which without seed
+That lofty land unbosoms.  By the stream
+Three paces only were we sunder'd: yet
+The Hellespont, where Xerxes pass'd it o'er,
+(A curb for ever to the pride of man)
+Was by Leander not more hateful held
+For floating, with inhospitable wave
+'Twixt Sestus and Abydos, than by me
+That flood, because it gave no passage thence.
+
+"Strangers ye come, and haply in this place,
+That cradled human nature in its birth,
+Wond'ring, ye not without suspicion view
+My smiles: but that sweet strain of psalmody,
+'Thou, Lord! hast made me glad,' will give ye light,
+Which may uncloud your minds.  And thou, who stand'st
+The foremost, and didst make thy suit to me,
+Say if aught else thou wish to hear: for I
+Came prompt to answer every doubt of thine."
+
+She spake; and I replied: "I know not how
+To reconcile this wave and rustling sound
+Of forest leaves, with what I late have heard
+Of opposite report."  She answering thus:
+"I will unfold the cause, whence that proceeds,
+Which makes thee wonder; and so purge the cloud
+That hath enwraps thee.  The First Good, whose joy
+Is only in himself, created man
+For happiness, and gave this goodly place,
+His pledge and earnest of eternal peace.
+Favour'd thus highly, through his own defect
+He fell, and here made short sojourn; he fell,
+And, for the bitterness of sorrow, chang'd
+Laughter unblam'd and ever-new delight.
+That vapours none, exhal'd from earth beneath,
+Or from the waters (which, wherever heat
+Attracts them, follow), might ascend thus far
+To vex man's peaceful state, this mountain rose
+So high toward the heav'n, nor fears the rage
+Of elements contending, from that part
+Exempted, where the gate his limit bars.
+Because the circumambient air throughout
+With its first impulse circles still, unless
+Aught interpose to cheek or thwart its course;
+Upon the summit, which on every side
+To visitation of th' impassive air
+Is open, doth that motion strike, and makes
+Beneath its sway th' umbrageous wood resound:
+And in the shaken plant such power resides,
+That it impregnates with its efficacy
+The voyaging breeze, upon whose subtle plume
+That wafted flies abroad; and th' other land
+Receiving (as 't is worthy in itself,
+Or in the clime, that warms it), doth conceive,
+And from its womb produces many a tree
+Of various virtue.  This when thou hast heard,
+The marvel ceases, if in yonder earth
+Some plant without apparent seed be found
+To fix its fibrous stem.  And further learn,
+That with prolific foison of all seeds,
+This holy plain is fill'd, and in itself
+Bears fruit that ne'er was pluck'd on other soil.
+
+"The water, thou behold'st, springs not from vein,
+As stream, that intermittently repairs
+And spends his pulse of life, but issues forth
+From fountain, solid, undecaying, sure;
+And by the will omnific, full supply
+Feeds whatsoe'er On either side it pours;
+On this devolv'd with power to take away
+Remembrance of offence, on that to bring
+Remembrance back of every good deed done.
+From whence its name of Lethe on this part;
+On th' other Eunoe: both of which must first
+Be tasted ere it work; the last exceeding
+All flavours else.  Albeit thy thirst may now
+Be well contented, if I here break off,
+No more revealing: yet a corollary
+I freely give beside: nor deem my words
+Less grateful to thee, if they somewhat pass
+The stretch of promise.  They, whose verse of yore
+The golden age recorded and its bliss,
+On the Parnassian mountain, of this place
+Perhaps had dream'd.  Here was man guiltless, here
+Perpetual spring and every fruit, and this
+The far-fam'd nectar."  Turning to the bards,
+When she had ceas'd, I noted in their looks
+A smile at her conclusion; then my face
+Again directed to the lovely dame.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXIX
+
+Singing, as if enamour'd, she resum'd
+And clos'd the song, with "Blessed they whose sins
+Are cover'd."  Like the wood-nymphs then, that tripp'd
+Singly across the sylvan shadows, one
+Eager to view and one to 'scape the sun,
+So mov'd she on, against the current, up
+The verdant rivage.  I, her mincing step
+Observing, with as tardy step pursued.
+
+Between us not an hundred paces trod,
+The bank, on each side bending equally,
+Gave me to face the orient.  Nor our way
+Far onward brought us, when to me at once
+She turn'd, and cried: "My brother! look and hearken."
+And lo! a sudden lustre ran across
+Through the great forest on all parts, so bright
+I doubted whether lightning were abroad;
+But that expiring ever in the spleen,
+That doth unfold it, and this during still
+And waxing still in splendor, made me question
+What it might be: and a sweet melody
+Ran through the luminous air.  Then did I chide
+With warrantable zeal the hardihood
+Of our first parent, for that there were earth
+Stood in obedience to the heav'ns, she only,
+Woman, the creature of an hour, endur'd not
+Restraint of any veil: which had she borne
+Devoutly, joys, ineffable as these,
+Had from the first, and long time since, been mine.
+
+While through that wilderness of primy sweets
+That never fade, suspense I walk'd, and yet
+Expectant of beatitude more high,
+Before us, like a blazing fire, the air
+Under the green boughs glow'd; and, for a song,
+Distinct the sound of melody was heard.
+
+O ye thrice holy virgins! for your sakes
+If e'er I suffer'd hunger, cold and watching,
+Occasion calls on me to crave your bounty.
+Now through my breast let Helicon his stream
+Pour copious; and Urania with her choir
+Arise to aid me: while the verse unfolds
+Things that do almost mock the grasp of thought.
+
+Onward a space, what seem'd seven trees of gold,
+The intervening distance to mine eye
+Falsely presented; but when I was come
+So near them, that no lineament was lost
+Of those, with which a doubtful object, seen
+Remotely, plays on the misdeeming sense,
+Then did the faculty, that ministers
+Discourse to reason, these for tapers of gold
+Distinguish, and it th' singing trace the sound
+"Hosanna."  Above, their beauteous garniture
+Flam'd with more ample lustre, than the moon
+Through cloudless sky at midnight in her full.
+
+I turn'd me full of wonder to my guide;
+And he did answer with a countenance
+Charg'd with no less amazement: whence my view
+Reverted to those lofty things, which came
+So slowly moving towards us, that the bride
+Would have outstript them on her bridal day.
+
+The lady called aloud: "Why thus yet burns
+Affection in thee for these living, lights,
+And dost not look on that which follows them?"
+
+I straightway mark'd a tribe behind them walk,
+As if attendant on their leaders, cloth'd
+With raiment of such whiteness, as on earth
+Was never.  On my left, the wat'ry gleam
+Borrow'd, and gave me back, when there I look'd.
+As in a mirror, my left side portray'd.
+
+When I had chosen on the river's edge
+Such station, that the distance of the stream
+Alone did separate me; there I stay'd
+My steps for clearer prospect, and beheld
+The flames go onward, leaving, as they went,
+The air behind them painted as with trail
+Of liveliest pencils! so distinct were mark'd
+All those sev'n listed colours, whence the sun
+Maketh his bow, and Cynthia her zone.
+These streaming gonfalons did flow beyond
+My vision; and ten paces, as I guess,
+Parted the outermost.  Beneath a sky
+So beautiful, came foul and-twenty elders,
+By two and two, with flower-de-luces crown'd.
+
+All sang one song: "Blessed be thou among
+The daughters of Adam! and thy loveliness
+Blessed for ever!"  After that the flowers,
+And the fresh herblets, on the opposite brink,
+Were free from that elected race; as light
+In heav'n doth second light, came after them
+Four animals, each crown'd with verdurous leaf.
+With six wings each was plum'd, the plumage full
+Of eyes, and th' eyes of Argus would be such,
+Were they endued with life.  Reader, more rhymes
+Will not waste in shadowing forth their form:
+For other need no straitens, that in this
+I may not give my bounty room.  But read
+Ezekiel; for he paints them, from the north
+How he beheld them come by Chebar's flood,
+In whirlwind, cloud and fire; and even such
+As thou shalt find them character'd by him,
+Here were they; save as to the pennons; there,
+From him departing, John accords with me.
+
+The space, surrounded by the four, enclos'd
+A car triumphal: on two wheels it came
+Drawn at a Gryphon's neck; and he above
+Stretch'd either wing uplifted, 'tween the midst
+And the three listed hues, on each side three;
+So that the wings did cleave or injure none;
+And out of sight they rose.  The members, far
+As he was bird, were golden; white the rest
+With vermeil intervein'd.  So beautiful
+A car in Rome ne'er grac'd Augustus pomp,
+Or Africanus': e'en the sun's itself
+Were poor to this, that chariot of the sun
+Erroneous, which in blazing ruin fell
+At Tellus' pray'r devout, by the just doom
+Mysterious of all-seeing Jove.  Three nymphs
+at the right wheel, came circling in smooth dance;
+The one so ruddy, that her form had scarce
+Been known within a furnace of clear flame:
+The next did look, as if the flesh and bones
+Were emerald: snow new-fallen seem'd the third.
+
+Now seem'd the white to lead, the ruddy now;
+And from her song who led, the others took
+Their treasure, swift or slow.  At th' other wheel,
+A band quaternion, each in purple clad,
+Advanc'd with festal step, as of them one
+The rest conducted, one, upon whose front
+Three eyes were seen.  In rear of all this group,
+Two old men I beheld, dissimilar
+In raiment, but in port and gesture like,
+Solid and mainly grave; of whom the one
+Did show himself some favour'd counsellor
+Of the great Coan, him, whom nature made
+To serve the costliest creature of her tribe.
+His fellow mark'd an opposite intent,
+Bearing a sword, whose glitterance and keen edge,
+E'en as I view'd it with the flood between,
+Appall'd me.  Next four others I beheld,
+Of humble seeming: and, behind them all,
+One single old man, sleeping, as he came,
+With a shrewd visage.  And these seven, each
+Like the first troop were habited, but wore
+No braid of lilies on their temples wreath'd.
+Rather with roses and each vermeil flower,
+A sight, but little distant, might have sworn,
+That they were all on fire above their brow.
+
+Whenas the car was o'er against me, straight.
+Was heard a thund'ring, at whose voice it seem'd
+The chosen multitude were stay'd; for there,
+With the first ensigns, made they solemn halt.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXX
+
+Soon as the polar light, which never knows
+Setting nor rising, nor the shadowy veil
+Of other cloud than sin, fair ornament
+Of the first heav'n, to duty each one there
+Safely convoying, as that lower doth
+The steersman to his port, stood firmly fix'd;
+Forthwith the saintly tribe, who in the van
+Between the Gryphon and its radiance came,
+Did turn them to the car, as to their rest:
+And one, as if commission'd from above,
+In holy chant thrice shorted forth aloud:
+"Come, spouse, from Libanus!" and all the rest
+Took up the song--At the last audit so
+The blest shall rise, from forth his cavern each
+Uplifting lightly his new-vested flesh,
+As, on the sacred litter, at the voice
+Authoritative of that elder, sprang
+A hundred ministers and messengers
+Of life eternal.  "Blessed thou! who com'st!"
+And, "O," they cried, "from full hands scatter ye
+Unwith'ring lilies;" and, so saying, cast
+Flowers over head and round them on all sides.
+
+I have beheld, ere now, at break of day,
+The eastern clime all roseate, and the sky
+Oppos'd, one deep and beautiful serene,
+And the sun's face so shaded, and with mists
+Attemper'd at lids rising, that the eye
+Long while endur'd the sight: thus in a cloud
+Of flowers, that from those hands angelic rose,
+And down, within and outside of the car,
+Fell showering, in white veil with olive wreath'd,
+A virgin in my view appear'd, beneath
+Green mantle, rob'd in hue of living flame:
+
+And o'er my Spirit, that in former days
+Within her presence had abode so long,
+No shudd'ring terror crept.  Mine eyes no more
+Had knowledge of her; yet there mov'd from her
+A hidden virtue, at whose touch awak'd,
+The power of ancient love was strong within me.
+
+No sooner on my vision streaming, smote
+The heav'nly influence, which years past, and e'en
+In childhood, thrill'd me, than towards Virgil I
+Turn'd me to leftward, panting, like a babe,
+That flees for refuge to his mother's breast,
+If aught have terrified or work'd him woe:
+And would have cried: "There is no dram of blood,
+That doth not quiver in me.  The old flame
+Throws out clear tokens of reviving fire:"
+But Virgil had bereav'd us of himself,
+Virgil, my best-lov'd father; Virgil, he
+To whom I gave me up for safety: nor,
+All, our prime mother lost, avail'd to save
+My undew'd cheeks from blur of soiling tears.
+
+"Dante, weep not, that Virgil leaves thee: nay,
+Weep thou not yet: behooves thee feel the edge
+Of other sword, and thou shalt weep for that."
+
+As to the prow or stern, some admiral
+Paces the deck, inspiriting his crew,
+When 'mid the sail-yards all hands ply aloof;
+Thus on the left side of the car I saw,
+(Turning me at the sound of mine own name,
+Which here I am compell'd to register)
+The virgin station'd, who before appeared
+Veil'd in that festive shower angelical.
+
+Towards me, across the stream, she bent her eyes;
+Though from her brow the veil descending, bound
+With foliage of Minerva, suffer'd not
+That I beheld her clearly; then with act
+Full royal, still insulting o'er her thrall,
+Added, as one, who speaking keepeth back
+The bitterest saying, to conclude the speech:
+"Observe me well.  I am, in sooth, I am
+Beatrice.  What! and hast thou deign'd at last
+Approach the mountainnewest not, O man!
+Thy happiness is whole?"  Down fell mine eyes
+On the clear fount, but there, myself espying,
+Recoil'd, and sought the greensward: such a weight
+Of shame was on my forehead.  With a mien
+Of that stern majesty, which doth surround
+mother's presence to her awe-struck child,
+She look'd; a flavour of such bitterness
+Was mingled in her pity.  There her words
+Brake off, and suddenly the angels sang:
+"In thee, O gracious Lord, my hope hath been:"
+But went no farther than, "Thou Lord, hast set
+My feet in ample room."  As snow, that lies
+Amidst the living rafters on the back
+Of Italy congeal'd when drifted high
+And closely pil'd by rough Sclavonian blasts,
+Breathe but the land whereon no shadow falls,
+And straightway melting it distils away,
+Like a fire-wasted taper: thus was I,
+Without a sigh or tear, or ever these
+Did sing, that with the chiming of heav'n's sphere,
+Still in their warbling chime: but when the strain
+Of dulcet symphony, express'd for me
+Their soft compassion, more than could the words
+"Virgin, why so consum'st him?"  then the ice,
+Congeal'd about my bosom, turn'd itself
+To spirit and water, and with anguish forth
+Gush'd through the lips and eyelids from the heart.
+
+Upon the chariot's right edge still she stood,
+Immovable, and thus address'd her words
+To those bright semblances with pity touch'd:
+"Ye in th' eternal day your vigils keep,
+So that nor night nor slumber, with close stealth,
+Conveys from you a single step in all
+The goings on of life: thence with more heed
+I shape mine answer, for his ear intended,
+Who there stands weeping, that the sorrow now
+May equal the transgression.  Not alone
+Through operation of the mighty orbs,
+That mark each seed to some predestin'd aim,
+As with aspect or fortunate or ill
+The constellations meet, but through benign
+Largess of heav'nly graces, which rain down
+From such a height, as mocks our vision, this man
+Was in the freshness of his being, such,
+So gifted virtually, that in him
+All better habits wond'rously had thriv'd.
+The more of kindly strength is in the soil,
+So much doth evil seed and lack of culture
+Mar it the more, and make it run to wildness.
+These looks sometime upheld him; for I show'd
+My youthful eyes, and led him by their light
+In upright walking.  Soon as I had reach'd
+The threshold of my second age, and chang'd
+My mortal for immortal, then he left me,
+And gave himself to others.  When from flesh
+To spirit I had risen, and increase
+Of beauty and of virtue circled me,
+I was less dear to him, and valued less.
+His steps were turn'd into deceitful ways,
+Following false images of good, that make
+No promise perfect.  Nor avail'd me aught
+To sue for inspirations, with the which,
+I, both in dreams of night, and otherwise,
+Did call him back; of them so little reck'd him,
+Such depth he fell, that all device was short
+Of his preserving, save that he should view
+The children of perdition.  To this end
+I visited the purlieus of the dead:
+And one, who hath conducted him thus high,
+Receiv'd my supplications urg'd with weeping.
+It were a breaking of God's high decree,
+If Lethe should be past, and such food tasted
+Without the cost of some repentant tear."
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXI
+
+"O Thou!"  her words she thus without delay
+Resuming, turn'd their point on me, to whom
+They but with lateral edge seem'd harsh before,
+"Say thou, who stand'st beyond the holy stream,
+If this be true.  A charge so grievous needs
+Thine own avowal."  On my faculty
+Such strange amazement hung, the voice expir'd
+Imperfect, ere its organs gave it birth.
+
+A little space refraining, then she spake:
+"What dost thou muse on?  Answer me.  The wave
+On thy remembrances of evil yet
+Hath done no injury."  A mingled sense
+Of fear and of confusion, from my lips
+Did such a "Yea" produce, as needed help
+Of vision to interpret.  As when breaks
+In act to be discharg'd, a cross-bow bent
+Beyond its pitch, both nerve and bow o'erstretch'd,
+The flagging weapon feebly hits the mark;
+Thus, tears and sighs forth gushing, did I burst
+Beneath the heavy load, and thus my voice
+Was slacken'd on its way.  She straight began:
+"When my desire invited thee to love
+The good, which sets a bound to our aspirings,
+What bar of thwarting foss or linked chain
+Did meet thee, that thou so should'st quit the hope
+Of further progress, or what bait of ease
+Or promise of allurement led thee on
+Elsewhere, that thou elsewhere should'st rather wait?"
+
+A bitter sigh I drew, then scarce found voice
+To answer, hardly to these sounds my lips
+Gave utterance, wailing: "Thy fair looks withdrawn,
+Things present, with deceitful pleasures, turn'd
+My steps aside."  She answering spake: "Hadst thou
+Been silent, or denied what thou avow'st,
+Thou hadst not hid thy sin the more: such eye
+Observes it.  But whene'er the sinner's cheek
+Breaks forth into the precious-streaming tears
+Of self-accusing, in our court the wheel
+Of justice doth run counter to the edge.
+Howe'er that thou may'st profit by thy shame
+For errors past, and that henceforth more strength
+May arm thee, when thou hear'st the Siren-voice,
+Lay thou aside the motive to this grief,
+And lend attentive ear, while I unfold
+How opposite a way my buried flesh
+Should have impell'd thee.  Never didst thou spy
+In art or nature aught so passing sweet,
+As were the limbs, that in their beauteous frame
+Enclos'd me, and are scatter'd now in dust.
+If sweetest thing thus fail'd thee with my death,
+What, afterward, of mortal should thy wish
+Have tempted?  When thou first hadst felt the dart
+Of perishable things, in my departing
+For better realms, thy wing thou should'st have prun'd
+To follow me, and never stoop'd again
+To 'bide a second blow for a slight girl,
+Or other gaud as transient and as vain.
+The new and inexperienc'd bird awaits,
+Twice it may be, or thrice, the fowler's aim;
+But in the sight of one, whose plumes are full,
+In vain the net is spread, the arrow wing'd."
+
+I stood, as children silent and asham'd
+Stand, list'ning, with their eyes upon the earth,
+Acknowledging their fault and self-condemn'd.
+And she resum'd: "If, but to hear thus pains thee,
+Raise thou thy beard, and lo! what sight shall do!"
+
+With less reluctance yields a sturdy holm,
+Rent from its fibers by a blast, that blows
+From off the pole, or from Iarbas' land,
+Than I at her behest my visage rais'd:
+And thus the face denoting by the beard,
+I mark'd the secret sting her words convey'd.
+
+No sooner lifted I mine aspect up,
+Than downward sunk that vision I beheld
+Of goodly creatures vanish; and mine eyes
+Yet unassur'd and wavering, bent their light
+On Beatrice.  Towards the animal,
+Who joins two natures in one form, she turn'd,
+And, even under shadow of her veil,
+And parted by the verdant rill, that flow'd
+Between, in loveliness appear'd as much
+Her former self surpassing, as on earth
+All others she surpass'd.  Remorseful goads
+Shot sudden through me.  Each thing else, the more
+Its love had late beguil'd me, now the more
+I Was loathsome.  On my heart so keenly smote
+The bitter consciousness, that on the ground
+O'erpower'd I fell: and what my state was then,
+She knows who was the cause.  When now my strength
+Flow'd back, returning outward from the heart,
+The lady, whom alone I first had seen,
+I found above me.  "Loose me not," she cried:
+"Loose not thy hold;" and lo! had dragg'd me high
+As to my neck into the stream, while she,
+Still as she drew me after, swept along,
+Swift as a shuttle, bounding o'er the wave.
+
+The blessed shore approaching then was heard
+So sweetly, "Tu asperges me," that I
+May not remember, much less tell the sound.
+The beauteous dame, her arms expanding, clasp'd
+My temples, and immerg'd me, where 't was fit
+The wave should drench me: and thence raising up,
+Within the fourfold dance of lovely nymphs
+Presented me so lav'd, and with their arm
+They each did cover me.  "Here are we nymphs,
+And in the heav'n are stars.  Or ever earth
+Was visited of Beatrice, we
+Appointed for her handmaids, tended on her.
+We to her eyes will lead thee; but the light
+Of gladness that is in them, well to scan,
+Those yonder three, of deeper ken than ours,
+Thy sight shall quicken."  Thus began their song;
+And then they led me to the Gryphon's breast,
+While, turn'd toward us, Beatrice stood.
+"Spare not thy vision.  We have stationed thee
+Before the emeralds, whence love erewhile
+Hath drawn his weapons on thee."  As they spake,
+A thousand fervent wishes riveted
+Mine eyes upon her beaming eyes, that stood
+Still fix'd toward the Gryphon motionless.
+As the sun strikes a mirror, even thus
+Within those orbs the twofold being, shone,
+For ever varying, in one figure now
+Reflected, now in other.  Reader! muse
+How wond'rous in my sight it seem'd to mark
+A thing, albeit steadfast in itself,
+Yet in its imag'd semblance mutable.
+
+Full of amaze, and joyous, while my soul
+Fed on the viand, whereof still desire
+Grows with satiety, the other three
+With gesture, that declar'd a loftier line,
+Advanc'd: to their own carol on they came
+Dancing in festive ring angelical.
+
+"Turn, Beatrice!" was their song: "O turn
+Thy saintly sight on this thy faithful one,
+Who to behold thee many a wearisome pace
+Hath measur'd.  Gracious at our pray'r vouchsafe
+Unveil to him thy cheeks: that he may mark
+Thy second beauty, now conceal'd."  O splendour!
+O sacred light eternal! who is he
+So pale with musing in Pierian shades,
+Or with that fount so lavishly imbued,
+Whose spirit should not fail him in th' essay
+To represent thee such as thou didst seem,
+When under cope of the still-chiming heaven
+Thou gav'st to open air thy charms reveal'd.
+
+
+
+
+CANTO XXXII
+
+Mine eyes with such an eager coveting,
+Were bent to rid them of their ten years' thirst,
+No other sense was waking: and e'en they
+Were fenc'd on either side from heed of aught;
+So tangled in its custom'd toils that smile
+Of saintly brightness drew me to itself,
+When forcibly toward the left my sight
+The sacred virgins turn'd; for from their lips
+I heard the warning sounds: "Too fix'd a gaze!"
+
+Awhile my vision labor'd; as when late
+Upon the' o'erstrained eyes the sun hath smote:
+But soon to lesser object, as the view
+Was now recover'd (lesser in respect
+To that excess of sensible, whence late
+I had perforce been sunder'd) on their right
+I mark'd that glorious army wheel, and turn,
+Against the sun and sev'nfold lights, their front.
+As when, their bucklers for protection rais'd,
+A well-rang'd troop, with portly banners curl'd,
+Wheel circling, ere the whole can change their ground:
+E'en thus the goodly regiment of heav'n
+Proceeding, all did pass us, ere the car
+Had slop'd his beam.  Attendant at the wheels
+The damsels turn'd; and on the Gryphon mov'd
+The sacred burden, with a pace so smooth,
+No feather on him trembled.  The fair dame
+Who through the wave had drawn me, companied
+By Statius and myself, pursued the wheel,
+Whose orbit, rolling, mark'd a lesser arch.
+
+Through the high wood, now void (the more her blame,
+Who by the serpent was beguil'd) I past
+With step in cadence to the harmony
+Angelic.  Onward had we mov'd, as far
+Perchance as arrow at three several flights
+Full wing'd had sped, when from her station down
+Descended Beatrice.  With one voice
+All murmur'd  "Adam," circling next a plant
+Despoil'd of flowers and leaf on every bough.
+Its tresses, spreading more as more they rose,
+Were such, as 'midst their forest wilds for height
+The Indians might have gaz'd at.  "Blessed thou!
+Gryphon, whose beak hath never pluck'd that tree
+Pleasant to taste: for hence the appetite
+Was warp'd to evil."  Round the stately trunk
+Thus shouted forth the rest, to whom return'd
+The animal twice-gender'd: "Yea: for so
+The generation of the just are sav'd."
+And turning to the chariot-pole, to foot
+He drew it of the widow'd branch, and bound
+There left unto the stock whereon it grew.
+
+As when large floods of radiance from above
+Stream, with that radiance mingled, which ascends
+Next after setting of the scaly sign,
+Our plants then burgeon, and each wears anew
+His wonted colours, ere the sun have yok'd
+Beneath another star his flamy steeds;
+Thus putting forth a hue, more faint than rose,
+And deeper than the violet, was renew'd
+The plant, erewhile in all its branches bare.
+
+Unearthly was the hymn, which then arose.
+I understood it not, nor to the end
+Endur'd the harmony.  Had I the skill
+To pencil forth, how clos'd th' unpitying eyes
+Slumb'ring, when Syrinx warbled, (eyes that paid
+So dearly for their watching,) then like painter,
+That with a model paints, I might design
+The manner of my falling into sleep.
+But feign who will the slumber cunningly;
+I pass it by to when I wak'd, and tell
+How suddenly a flash of splendour rent
+The curtain of my sleep, and one cries out:
+"Arise, what dost thou?"  As the chosen three,
+On Tabor's mount, admitted to behold
+The blossoming of that fair tree, whose fruit
+Is coveted of angels, and doth make
+Perpetual feast in heaven, to themselves
+Returning at the word, whence deeper sleeps
+Were broken, that they their tribe diminish'd saw,
+Both Moses and Elias gone, and chang'd
+The stole their master wore: thus to myself
+Returning, over me beheld I stand
+The piteous one, who cross the stream had brought
+My steps.  "And where," all doubting, I exclaim'd,
+"Is Beatrice?"--"See her," she replied,
+"Beneath the fresh leaf seated on its root.
+Behold th' associate choir that circles her.
+The others, with a melody more sweet
+And more profound, journeying to higher realms,
+Upon the Gryphon tend."  If there her words
+Were clos'd, I know not; but mine eyes had now
+Ta'en view of her, by whom all other thoughts
+Were barr'd admittance.  On the very ground
+Alone she sat, as she had there been left
+A guard upon the wain, which I beheld
+Bound to the twyform beast.  The seven nymphs
+Did make themselves a cloister round about her,
+And in their hands upheld those lights secure
+From blast septentrion and the gusty south.
+
+"A little while thou shalt be forester here:
+And citizen shalt be forever with me,
+Of that true Rome, wherein Christ dwells a Roman
+To profit the misguided world, keep now
+Thine eyes upon the car; and what thou seest,
+Take heed thou write, returning to that place."
+
+Thus Beatrice: at whose feet inclin'd
+Devout, at her behest, my thought and eyes,
+I, as she bade, directed.  Never fire,
+With so swift motion, forth a stormy cloud
+Leap'd downward from the welkin's farthest bound,
+As I beheld the bird of Jove descending
+Pounce on the tree, and, as he rush'd, the rind,
+Disparting crush beneath him, buds much more
+And leaflets.  On the car with all his might
+He struck, whence, staggering like a ship, it reel'd,
+At random driv'n, to starboard now, o'ercome,
+And now to larboard, by the vaulting waves.
+
+Next springing up into the chariot's womb
+A fox I saw, with hunger seeming pin'd
+Of all good food.  But, for his ugly sins
+The saintly maid rebuking him, away
+Scamp'ring he turn'd, fast as his hide-bound corpse
+Would bear him.  Next, from whence before he came,
+I saw the eagle dart into the hull
+O' th' car, and leave it with his feathers lin'd;
+And then a voice, like that which issues forth
+From heart with sorrow riv'd, did issue forth
+From heav'n, and, "O poor bark of mine!" it cried,
+"How badly art thou freighted!"  Then, it seem'd,
+That the earth open'd between either wheel,
+And I beheld a dragon issue thence,
+That through the chariot fix'd his forked train;
+And like a wasp that draggeth back the sting,
+So drawing forth his baleful train, he dragg'd
+Part of the bottom forth, and went his way
+Exulting.  What remain'd, as lively turf
+With green herb, so did clothe itself with plumes,
+Which haply had with purpose chaste and kind
+Been offer'd; and therewith were cloth'd the wheels,
+Both one and other, and the beam, so quickly
+A sigh were not breath'd sooner.  Thus transform'd,
+The holy structure, through its several parts,
+Did put forth heads, three on the beam, and one
+On every side; the first like oxen horn'd,
+But with a single horn upon their front
+The four.  Like monster sight hath never seen.
+O'er it methought there sat, secure as rock
+On mountain's lofty top, a shameless whore,
+Whose ken rov'd loosely round her.  At her side,
+As 't were that none might bear her off, I saw
+A giant stand; and ever, and anon
+They mingled kisses.  But, her lustful eyes
+Chancing on me to wander, that fell minion
+Scourg'd her from head to foot all o'er; then full
+Of jealousy, and fierce with rage, unloos'd
+The monster, and dragg'd on, so far across
+The forest, that from me its shades alone
+Shielded the harlot and the new-form'd brute.
+
+
+CANTO XXXIII
+
+"The heathen, Lord! are come!" responsive thus,
+The trinal now, and now the virgin band
+Quaternion, their sweet psalmody began,
+Weeping; and Beatrice listen'd, sad
+And sighing, to the song', in such a mood,
+That Mary, as she stood beside the cross,
+Was scarce more chang'd.  But when they gave her place
+To speak, then, risen upright on her feet,
+She, with a colour glowing bright as fire,
+Did answer: "Yet a little while, and ye
+Shall see me not; and, my beloved sisters,
+Again a little while, and ye shall see me."
+
+Before her then she marshall'd all the seven,
+And, beck'ning only motion'd me, the dame,
+And that remaining sage, to follow her.
+
+So on she pass'd; and had not set, I ween,
+Her tenth step to the ground, when with mine eyes
+Her eyes encounter'd; and, with visage mild,
+"So mend thy pace," she cried, "that if my words
+Address thee, thou mayst still be aptly plac'd
+To hear them."  Soon as duly to her side
+I now had hasten'd: "Brother!" she began,
+"Why mak'st thou no attempt at questioning,
+As thus we walk together?"  Like to those
+Who, speaking with too reverent an awe
+Before their betters, draw not forth the voice
+Alive unto their lips, befell me shell
+That I in sounds imperfect thus began:
+"Lady! what I have need of, that thou know'st,
+And what will suit my need."  She answering thus:
+"Of fearfulness and shame, I will, that thou
+Henceforth do rid thee: that thou speak no more,
+As one who dreams.  Thus far be taught of me:
+The vessel, which thou saw'st the serpent break,
+Was and is not: let him, who hath the blame,
+Hope not to scare God's vengeance with a sop.
+Without an heir for ever shall not be
+That eagle, he, who left the chariot plum'd,
+Which monster made it first and next a prey.
+Plainly I view, and therefore speak, the stars
+E'en now approaching, whose conjunction, free
+From all impediment and bar, brings on
+A season, in the which, one sent from God,
+(Five hundred, five, and ten, do mark him out)
+That foul one, and th' accomplice of her guilt,
+The giant, both shall slay.  And if perchance
+My saying, dark as Themis or as Sphinx,
+Fail to persuade thee, (since like them it foils
+The intellect with blindness) yet ere long
+Events shall be the Naiads, that will solve
+This knotty riddle, and no damage light
+On flock or field.  Take heed; and as these words
+By me are utter'd, teach them even so
+To those who live that life, which is a race
+To death: and when thou writ'st them, keep in mind
+Not to conceal how thou hast seen the plant,
+That twice hath now been spoil'd.  This whoso robs,
+This whoso plucks, with blasphemy of deed
+Sins against God, who for his use alone
+Creating hallow'd it.  For taste of this,
+In pain and in desire, five thousand years
+And upward, the first soul did yearn for him,
+Who punish'd in himself the fatal gust.
+
+"Thy reason slumbers, if it deem this height
+And summit thus inverted of the plant,
+Without due cause: and were not vainer thoughts,
+As Elsa's numbing waters, to thy soul,
+And their fond pleasures had not dyed it dark
+As Pyramus the mulberry, thou hadst seen,
+In such momentous circumstance alone,
+God's equal justice morally implied
+In the forbidden tree.  But since I mark thee
+In understanding harden'd into stone,
+And, to that hardness, spotted too and stain'd,
+So that thine eye is dazzled at my word,
+I will, that, if not written, yet at least
+Painted thou take it in thee, for the cause,
+That one brings home his staff inwreath'd with palm."
+
+I thus: "As wax by seal, that changeth not
+Its impress, now is stamp'd my brain by thee.
+But wherefore soars thy wish'd-for speech so high
+Beyond my sight, that loses it the more,
+The more it strains to reach it?"--"To the end
+That thou mayst know," she answer'd straight, "the school,
+That thou hast follow'd; and how far behind,
+When following my discourse, its learning halts:
+And mayst behold your art, from the divine
+As distant, as the disagreement is
+'Twixt earth and heaven's most high and rapturous orb."
+
+"I not remember," I replied, "that e'er
+I was estrang'd from thee, nor for such fault
+Doth conscience chide me."  Smiling she return'd:
+"If thou canst, not remember, call to mind
+How lately thou hast drunk of Lethe's wave;
+And, sure as smoke doth indicate a flame,
+In that forgetfulness itself conclude
+Blame from thy alienated will incurr'd.
+From henceforth verily my words shall be
+As naked as will suit them to appear
+In thy unpractis'd view."  More sparkling now,
+And with retarded course the sun possess'd
+The circle of mid-day, that varies still
+As th' aspect varies of each several clime,
+When, as one, sent in vaward of a troop
+For escort, pauses, if perchance he spy
+Vestige of somewhat strange and rare: so paus'd
+The sev'nfold band, arriving at the verge
+Of a dun umbrage hoar, such as is seen,
+Beneath green leaves and gloomy branches, oft
+To overbrow a bleak and alpine cliff.
+And, where they stood, before them, as it seem'd,
+Tigris and Euphrates both beheld,
+Forth from one fountain issue; and, like friends,
+Linger at parting. "O enlight'ning beam!
+O glory of our kind! beseech thee say
+What water this, which from one source deriv'd
+Itself removes to distance from itself?"
+
+To such entreaty answer thus was made:
+"Entreat Matilda, that she teach thee this."
+
+And here, as one, who clears himself of blame
+Imputed, the fair dame return'd: "Of me
+He this and more hath learnt; and I am safe
+That Lethe's water hath not hid it from him."
+
+And Beatrice: "Some more pressing care
+That oft the memory 'reeves, perchance hath made
+His mind's eye dark.  But lo! where Eunoe cows!
+Lead thither; and, as thou art wont, revive
+His fainting virtue."  As a courteous spirit,
+That proffers no excuses, but as soon
+As he hath token of another's will,
+Makes it his own; when she had ta'en me, thus
+The lovely maiden mov'd her on, and call'd
+To Statius with an air most lady-like:
+"Come thou with him."  Were further space allow'd,
+Then, Reader, might I sing, though but in part,
+That beverage, with whose sweetness I had ne'er
+Been sated.  But, since all the leaves are full,
+Appointed for this second strain, mine art
+With warning bridle checks me.  I return'd
+From the most holy wave, regenerate,
+If 'en as new plants renew'd with foliage new,
+Pure and made apt for mounting to the stars.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Vision of Purgatory, Complete
+by Dante Alighieri, Translated By The Rev. H. F. Cary,
+Illustrated by Gustave Dore
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+<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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+    <title>
+      Dante's Purgatory
+    </title>
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+    <h1>
+      THE VISION OF PURGATORY
+    </h1>
+<pre xml:space="preserve">
+
+Project Gutenberg's The Vision of Purgatory, Complete, by Dante Alighieri
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.net
+
+
+Title: The Vision of Purgatory, Complete
+
+Author: Dante Alighieri
+
+Release Date: August 5, 2004 [EBook #8795]
+Last Updated: October 12, 2012
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE VISION OF PURGATORY, COMPLETE ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Widger
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+    <div class="mynote">
+      <i><a href="http://www.gutenberg.org/files/8795/old/orig8795-h/main.htm">
+      LINK TO THE ORIGINAL HTML FILE: This Ebook Has Been Reformatted For Better
+      Appearance In Mobile Viewers Such As Kindles And Others. The Original
+      Format, Which The Editor Believes Has A More Attractive Appearance For
+      Laptops And Other Computers, May Be Viewed By Clicking On This Box.</a></i>
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h1>
+      PURGATORY
+    </h1>
+    <p>
+      <br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      THE VISION
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      OF
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      HELL, PURGATORY, AND PARADISE
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br />
+    </p>
+    <h3>
+      BY
+    </h3>
+    <p>
+      <br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      DANTE ALIGHIERI
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h1>
+      ILLUSTRATED BY GUSTAVE DORE
+    </h1>
+    <p>
+      <br />
+    </p>
+    <h3>
+      TRANSLATED BY
+    </h3>
+    <p>
+      <br />
+    </p>
+    <h3>
+      THE REV. H. F. CARY, M.A.
+    </h3>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      LIST OF CANTOS
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <a href="#link1">Canto 1</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /><br /> <a
+      href="#link2">Canto 2</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link3">Canto 3</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link4">Canto 4</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link5">Canto 5</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link6">Canto 6</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link7">Canto 7</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link8">Canto 8</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link9">Canto 9</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link10">Canto 10</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link11">Canto 11</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link12">Canto 12</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /><br /> <a
+      href="#link13">Canto 13</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link14">Canto 14</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link15">Canto 15</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link16">Canto 16</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link17">Canto 17</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link18">Canto 18</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link19">Canto 19</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link20">Canto 20</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link21">Canto 21</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link22">Canto 22</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link23">Canto 23</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link24">Canto 24</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link25">Canto 25</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link26">Canto 26</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link27">Canto 27</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link28">Canto 28</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link29">Canto 29</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link30">Canto 30</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link31">Canto 31</a><br /><br /> <a href="#link32">Canto 32</a><br /><br />
+      <a href="#link33">Canto 33</a><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br />
+      <br /><br /> <a name="link1" id="link1"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO I
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> O'er better waves to speed her rapid course<br /> The light bark of
+      my genius lifts the sail,<br /> Well pleas'd to leave so cruel sea behind;<br />
+      And of that second region will I sing,<br /> In which the human spirit from
+      sinful blot<br /> Is purg'd, and for ascent to Heaven prepares.<br /> <br />Here,
+      O ye hallow'd Nine! for in your train<br /> I follow, here the deadened
+      strain revive;<br /> Nor let Calliope refuse to sound<br /> A somewhat
+      higher song, of that loud tone,<br /> Which when the wretched birds of
+      chattering note<br /> Had heard, they of forgiveness lost all hope.<br />
+      <br />Sweet hue of eastern sapphire, that was spread<br /> O'er the serene
+      aspect of the pure air,<br /> High up as the first circle, to mine eyes<br />
+      Unwonted joy renew'd, soon as I 'scap'd<br /> Forth from the atmosphere of
+      deadly gloom,<br /> That had mine eyes and bosom fill'd with grief.<br />
+      The radiant planet, that to love invites,<br /> Made all the orient laugh,
+      and veil'd beneath<br /> The Pisces' light, that in his escort came.<br />
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/01-19.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="01-19th.jpg (38K)" src="images/01-19th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />To the right hand I turn'd, and fix'd my mind<br />
+      On the' other pole attentive, where I saw<br /> Four stars ne'er seen
+      before save by the ken<br /> Of our first parents. &nbsp;Heaven of their
+      rays<br /> Seem'd joyous. &nbsp;O thou northern site, bereft<br /> Indeed,
+      and widow'd, since of these depriv'd!<br /> <br />As from this view I had
+      desisted, straight<br /> Turning a little tow'rds the other pole,<br />
+      There from whence now the wain had disappear'd,<br /> I saw an old man
+      standing by my side<br /> Alone, so worthy of rev'rence in his look,<br />
+      That ne'er from son to father more was ow'd.<br /> Low down his beard and
+      mix'd with hoary white<br /> Descended, like his locks, which parting fell<br />
+      Upon his breast in double fold. &nbsp;The beams<br /> Of those four
+      luminaries on his face<br /> So brightly shone, and with such radiance
+      clear<br /> Deck'd it, that I beheld him as the sun.<br /> <br />"Say who are
+      ye, that stemming the blind stream,<br /> Forth from th' eternal
+      prison-house have fled?"<br /> He spoke and moved those venerable plumes.<br />
+      "Who hath conducted, or with lantern sure<br /> Lights you emerging from
+      the depth of night,<br /> That makes the infernal valley ever black?<br />
+      Are the firm statutes of the dread abyss<br /> Broken, or in high heaven
+      new laws ordain'd,<br /> That thus, condemn'd, ye to my caves approach?"<br />
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/01-49.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="01-49th.jpg (35K)" src="images/01-49th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />My guide, then laying hold on me, by words<br />
+      And intimations given with hand and head,<br /> Made my bent knees and eye
+      submissive pay<br /> Due reverence; then thus to him replied.<br /> <br />"Not
+      of myself I come; a Dame from heaven<br /> Descending, had besought me in
+      my charge<br /> To bring. &nbsp;But since thy will implies, that more<br />
+      Our true condition I unfold at large,<br /> Mine is not to deny thee thy
+      request.<br /> This mortal ne'er hath seen the farthest gloom.<br /> But
+      erring by his folly had approach'd<br /> So near, that little space was
+      left to turn.<br /> Then, as before I told, I was dispatch'd<br /> To work
+      his rescue, and no way remain'd<br /> Save this which I have ta'en. &nbsp;I
+      have display'd<br /> Before him all the regions of the bad;<br /> And
+      purpose now those spirits to display,<br /> That under thy command are
+      purg'd from sin.<br /> How I have brought him would be long to say.<br />
+      From high descends the virtue, by whose aid<br /> I to thy sight and
+      hearing him have led.<br /> Now may our coming please thee. &nbsp;In the
+      search<br /> Of liberty he journeys: that how dear<br /> They know, who for
+      her sake have life refus'd.<br /> Thou knowest, to whom death for her was
+      sweet<br /> In Utica, where thou didst leave those weeds,<br /> That in the
+      last great day will shine so bright.<br /> For us the' eternal edicts are
+      unmov'd:<br /> He breathes, and I am free of Minos' power,<br /> Abiding in
+      that circle where the eyes<br /> Of thy chaste Marcia beam, who still in
+      look<br /> Prays thee, O hallow'd spirit! to own her shine.<br /> Then by
+      her love we' implore thee, let us pass<br /> Through thy sev'n regions; for
+      which best thanks<br /> I for thy favour will to her return,<br /> If
+      mention there below thou not disdain."<br /> <br />"Marcia so pleasing in my
+      sight was found,"<br /> He then to him rejoin'd, "while I was there,<br />
+      That all she ask'd me I was fain to grant.<br /> Now that beyond the'
+      accursed stream she dwells,<br /> She may no longer move me, by that law,<br />
+      Which was ordain'd me, when I issued thence.<br /> Not so, if Dame from
+      heaven, as thou sayst,<br /> Moves and directs thee; then no flattery
+      needs.<br /> Enough for me that in her name thou ask.<br /> Go therefore
+      now: and with a slender reed<br /> See that thou duly gird him, and his
+      face<br /> Lave, till all sordid stain thou wipe from thence.<br /> For not
+      with eye, by any cloud obscur'd,<br /> Would it be seemly before him to
+      come,<br /> Who stands the foremost minister in heaven.<br /> This islet all
+      around, there far beneath,<br /> Where the wave beats it, on the oozy bed<br />
+      Produces store of reeds. No other plant,<br /> Cover'd with leaves, or
+      harden'd in its stalk,<br /> There lives, not bending to the water's sway.<br />
+      After, this way return not; but the sun<br /> Will show you, that now
+      rises, where to take<br /> The mountain in its easiest ascent."<br /> <br />He
+      disappear'd; and I myself uprais'd<br /> Speechless, and to my guide
+      retiring close,<br /> Toward him turn'd mine eyes. &nbsp;He thus began;<br />
+      "My son! observant thou my steps pursue.<br /> We must retreat to rearward,
+      for that way<br /> The champain to its low extreme declines."<br /> <br />The
+      dawn had chas'd the matin hour of prime,<br /> Which deaf before it, so
+      that from afar<br /> I spy'd the trembling of the ocean stream.<br /> <br />We
+      travers'd the deserted plain, as one<br /> Who, wander'd from his track,
+      thinks every step<br /> Trodden in vain till he regain the path.<br /> <br />When
+      we had come, where yet the tender dew<br /> Strove with the sun, and in a
+      place, where fresh<br /> The wind breath'd o'er it, while it slowly dried;<br />
+      Both hands extended on the watery grass<br /> My master plac'd, in graceful
+      act and kind.<br /> Whence I of his intent before appriz'd,<br /> Stretch'd
+      out to him my cheeks suffus'd with tears.<br /> There to my visage he anew
+      restor'd<br /> That hue, which the dun shades of hell conceal'd.<br /> <br />Then
+      on the solitary shore arriv'd,<br /> That never sailing on its waters saw<br />
+      Man, that could after measure back his course,<br /> He girt me in such
+      manner as had pleas'd<br /> Him who instructed, and O, strange to tell!<br />
+      As he selected every humble plant,<br /> Wherever one was pluck'd, another
+      there<br /> Resembling, straightway in its place arose. <br /><br /> <a
+      name="link2" id="link2"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO II
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Now had the sun to that horizon reach'd,<br /> That covers, with the
+      most exalted point<br /> Of its meridian circle, Salem's walls,<br /> And
+      night, that opposite to him her orb<br /> Sounds, from the stream of Ganges
+      issued forth,<br /> Holding the scales, that from her hands are dropp'd<br />
+      When she reigns highest: so that where I was,<br /> Aurora's white and
+      vermeil-tinctur'd cheek<br /> To orange turn'd as she in age increas'd.<br />
+      <br />Meanwhile we linger'd by the water's brink,<br /> Like men, who,
+      musing on their road, in thought<br /> Journey, while motionless the body
+      rests.<br /> When lo! as near upon the hour of dawn,<br /> Through the thick
+      vapours Mars with fiery beam<br /> Glares down in west, over the ocean
+      floor;<br /> So seem'd, what once again I hope to view,<br /> A light so
+      swiftly coming through the sea,<br /> No winged course might equal its
+      career.<br /> From which when for a space I had withdrawn<br /> Thine eyes,
+      to make inquiry of my guide,<br /> Again I look'd and saw it grown in size<br />
+      And brightness: thou on either side appear'd<br /> Something, but what I
+      knew not of bright hue,<br /> And by degrees from underneath it came<br />
+      Another. &nbsp;My preceptor silent yet<br /> Stood, while the brightness,
+      that we first discern'd,<br /> Open'd the form of wings: then when he knew<br />
+      The pilot, cried aloud, "Down, down; bend low<br /> Thy knees; behold God's
+      angel: fold thy hands:<br /> Now shalt thou see true Ministers indeed."<br />
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/02-27.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="02-27th.jpg (33K)" src="images/02-27th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> Lo how all human means he sets at naught!<br /> So
+      that nor oar he needs, nor other sail<br /> Except his wings, between such
+      distant shores.<br /> Lo how straight up to heaven he holds them rear'd,<br />
+      Winnowing the air with those eternal plumes,<br /> That not like mortal
+      hairs fall off or change!"<br /> <br />As more and more toward us came, more
+      bright<br /> Appear'd the bird of God, nor could the eye<br /> Endure his
+      splendor near: I mine bent down.<br /> He drove ashore in a small bark so
+      swift<br /> And light, that in its course no wave it drank.<br /> The
+      heav'nly steersman at the prow was seen,<br /> Visibly written blessed in
+      his looks.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/02-42.jpg">ENLARGE TO
+      FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="02-42th.jpg (31K)" src="images/02-42th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> Within a hundred spirits and more there sat.<br /> "In
+      Exitu Israel de Aegypto;"<br /> All with one voice together sang, with what<br />
+      In the remainder of that hymn is writ.<br /> Then soon as with the sign of
+      holy cross<br /> He bless'd them, they at once leap'd out on land,<br /> The
+      swiftly as he came return'd. The crew,<br /> There left, appear'd astounded
+      with the place,<br /> Gazing around as one who sees new sights.<br /> <br />From
+      every side the sun darted his beams,<br /> And with his arrowy radiance
+      from mid heav'n<br /> Had chas'd the Capricorn, when that strange tribe<br />
+      Lifting their eyes towards us: "If ye know,<br /> Declare what path will
+      Lead us to the mount."<br /> <br />Them Virgil answer'd. &nbsp;"Ye suppose
+      perchance<br /> Us well acquainted with this place: but here,<br /> We, as
+      yourselves, are strangers. &nbsp;Not long erst<br /> We came, before you
+      but a little space,<br /> By other road so rough and hard, that now<br />
+      The' ascent will seem to us as play." &nbsp;The spirits,<br /> Who from my
+      breathing had perceiv'd I liv'd,<br /> Grew pale with wonder. &nbsp;As the
+      multitude<br /> Flock round a herald, sent with olive branch,<br /> To hear
+      what news he brings, and in their haste<br /> Tread one another down, e'en
+      so at sight<br /> Of me those happy spirits were fix'd, each one<br />
+      Forgetful of its errand, to depart,<br /> Where cleans'd from sin, it might
+      be made all fair.<br /> <br />Then one I saw darting before the rest<br />
+      With such fond ardour to embrace me, I<br /> To do the like was mov'd.
+      &nbsp;O shadows vain<br /> Except in outward semblance! thrice my hands<br />
+      I clasp'd behind it, they as oft return'd<br /> Empty into my breast again.
+      &nbsp;Surprise<br /> I needs must think was painted in my looks,<br /> For
+      that the shadow smil'd and backward drew.<br /> To follow it I hasten'd,
+      but with voice<br /> Of sweetness it enjoin'd me to desist.<br /> Then who
+      it was I knew, and pray'd of it,<br /> To talk with me, it would a little
+      pause.<br /> It answered: "Thee as in my mortal frame<br /> I lov'd, so
+      loos'd forth it I love thee still,<br /> And therefore pause; but why
+      walkest thou here?"<br /> <br />"Not without purpose once more to return,<br />
+      Thou find'st me, my Casella, where I am<br /> Journeying this way;" I said,
+      "but how of thee<br /> Hath so much time been lost?" &nbsp;He answer'd
+      straight:<br /> "No outrage hath been done to me, if he<br /> Who when and
+      whom he chooses takes, me oft<br /> This passage hath denied, since of just
+      will<br /> His will he makes. &nbsp;These three months past indeed,<br />
+      He, whose chose to enter, with free leave<br /> Hath taken; whence I
+      wand'ring by the shore<br /> Where Tyber's wave grows salt, of him gain'd
+      kind<br /> Admittance, at that river's mouth, tow'rd which<br /> His wings
+      are pointed, for there always throng<br /> All such as not to Archeron
+      descend."<br /> <br />Then I: "If new laws have not quite destroy'd<br />
+      Memory and use of that sweet song of love,<br /> That while all my cares
+      had power to 'swage;<br /> Please thee with it a little to console<br /> My
+      spirit, that incumber'd with its frame,<br /> Travelling so far, of pain is
+      overcome."<br /> <br />"Love that discourses in my thoughts." &nbsp;He then<br />
+      Began in such soft accents, that within<br /> The sweetness thrills me yet.
+      &nbsp;My gentle guide<br /> And all who came with him, so well were
+      pleas'd,<br /> That seem'd naught else might in their thoughts have room.<br />
+      <br />Fast fix'd in mute attention to his notes<br /> We stood, when lo!
+      that old man venerable<br /> Exclaiming, "How is this, ye tardy spirits?<br />
+      What negligence detains you loit'ring here?<br /> Run to the mountain to
+      cast off those scales,<br /> That from your eyes the sight of God conceal."<br />
+      <br />As a wild flock of pigeons, to their food<br /> Collected, blade or
+      tares, without their pride<br /> Accustom'd, and in still and quiet sort,<br />
+      If aught alarm them, suddenly desert<br /> Their meal, assail'd by more
+      important care;<br /> So I that new-come troop beheld, the song<br />
+      Deserting, hasten to the mountain's side,<br /> As one who goes yet where
+      he tends knows not.<br /> <br />Nor with less hurried step did we depart.
+      <br /><br /> <a name="link3" id="link3"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO III
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Them sudden flight had scatter'd over the plain,<br /> Turn'd tow'rds
+      the mountain, whither reason's voice<br /> Drives us; I to my faithful
+      company<br /> Adhering, left it not. &nbsp;For how of him<br /> Depriv'd,
+      might I have sped, or who beside<br /> Would o'er the mountainous tract
+      have led my steps<br /> He with the bitter pang of self-remorse<br /> Seem'd
+      smitten. &nbsp;O clear conscience and upright<br /> How doth a little fling
+      wound thee sore!<br /> <br />Soon as his feet desisted (slack'ning pace),<br />
+      From haste, that mars all decency of act,<br /> My mind, that in itself
+      before was wrapt,<br /> Its thoughts expanded, as with joy restor'd:<br />
+      And full against the steep ascent I set<br /> My face, where highest to
+      heav'n its top o'erflows.<br /> <br />The sun, that flar'd behind, with
+      ruddy beam<br /> Before my form was broken; for in me<br /> His rays
+      resistance met. &nbsp;I turn'd aside<br /> With fear of being left, when I
+      beheld<br /> Only before myself the ground obscur'd.<br /> When thus my
+      solace, turning him around,<br /> Bespake me kindly: "Why distrustest thou?<br />
+      Believ'st not I am with thee, thy sure guide?<br /> It now is evening
+      there, where buried lies<br /> The body, in which I cast a shade, remov'd<br />
+      To Naples from Brundusium's wall. &nbsp;Nor thou<br /> Marvel, if before me
+      no shadow fall,<br /> More than that in the sky element<br /> One ray
+      obstructs not other. &nbsp;To endure<br /> Torments of heat and cold
+      extreme, like frames<br /> That virtue hath dispos'd, which how it works<br />
+      Wills not to us should be reveal'd. &nbsp;Insane<br /> Who hopes, our
+      reason may that space explore,<br /> Which holds three persons in one
+      substance knit.<br /> Seek not the wherefore, race of human kind;<br />
+      Could ye have seen the whole, no need had been<br /> For Mary to bring
+      forth. &nbsp;Moreover ye<br /> Have seen such men desiring fruitlessly;<br />
+      To whose desires repose would have been giv'n,<br /> That now but serve
+      them for eternal grief.<br /> I speak of Plato, and the Stagyrite,<br /> And
+      others many more." &nbsp;And then he bent<br /> Downwards his forehead, and
+      in troubled mood<br /> Broke off his speech. &nbsp;Meanwhile we had arriv'd<br />
+      Far as the mountain's foot, and there the rock<br /> Found of so steep
+      ascent, that nimblest steps<br /> To climb it had been vain. &nbsp;The most
+      remote<br /> Most wild untrodden path, in all the tract<br /> 'Twixt Lerice
+      and Turbia were to this<br /> A ladder easy' and open of access.<br /> <br />"Who
+      knows on which hand now the steep declines?"<br /> My master said and
+      paus'd, "so that he may<br /> Ascend, who journeys without aid of wine?"<br />
+      And while with looks directed to the ground<br /> The meaning of the
+      pathway he explor'd,<br /> And I gaz'd upward round the stony height,<br />
+      Of spirits, that toward us mov'd their steps,<br /> Yet moving seem'd not,
+      they so slow approach'd.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a
+      href="images/03-50.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="03-50th.jpg (35K)" src="images/03-50th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />I thus my guide address'd: "Upraise thine eyes,<br />
+      Lo that way some, of whom thou may'st obtain<br /> Counsel, if of thyself
+      thou find'st it not!"<br /> <br />Straightway he look'd, and with free
+      speech replied:<br /> "Let us tend thither: they but softly come.<br /> And
+      thou be firm in hope, my son belov'd."<br /> <br />Now was that people
+      distant far in space<br /> A thousand paces behind ours, as much<br /> As at
+      a throw the nervous arm could fling,<br /> When all drew backward on the
+      messy crags<br /> Of the steep bank, and firmly stood unmov'd<br /> As one
+      who walks in doubt might stand to look.<br /> <br />"O spirits perfect! O
+      already chosen!"<br /> Virgil to them began, "by that blest peace,<br />
+      Which, as I deem, is for you all prepar'd,<br /> Instruct us where the
+      mountain low declines,<br /> So that attempt to mount it be not vain.<br />
+      For who knows most, him loss of time most grieves."<br /> <br />As sheep,
+      that step from forth their fold, by one,<br /> Or pairs, or three at once;
+      meanwhile the rest<br /> Stand fearfully, bending the eye and nose<br /> To
+      ground, and what the foremost does, that do<br /> The others, gath'ring
+      round her, if she stops,<br /> Simple and quiet, nor the cause discern;<br />
+      So saw I moving to advance the first,<br /> Who of that fortunate crew were
+      at the head,<br /> Of modest mien and graceful in their gait.<br /> When
+      they before me had beheld the light<br /> From my right side fall broken on
+      the ground,<br /> So that the shadow reach'd the cave, they stopp'd<br />
+      And somewhat back retir'd: the same did all,<br /> Who follow'd, though
+      unweeting of the cause.<br /> <br />"Unask'd of you, yet freely I confess,<br />
+      This is a human body which ye see.<br /> That the sun's light is broken on
+      the ground,<br /> Marvel not: but believe, that not without<br /> Virtue
+      deriv'd from Heaven, we to climb<br /> Over this wall aspire." &nbsp;So
+      them bespake<br /> My master; and that virtuous tribe rejoin'd;<br /> "Turn,
+      and before you there the entrance lies,"<br /> Making a signal to us with
+      bent hands.<br /> <br />Then of them one began. &nbsp;"Whoe'er thou art,<br />
+      Who journey'st thus this way, thy visage turn,<br /> Think if me elsewhere
+      thou hast ever seen."<br /> <br />I tow'rds him turn'd, and with fix'd eye
+      beheld.<br /> Comely, and fair, and gentle of aspect,<br /> He seem'd, but
+      on one brow a gash was mark'd.<br /> <br />When humbly I disclaim'd to have
+      beheld<br /> Him ever: "Now behold!" &nbsp;he said, and show'd<br /> High on
+      his breast a wound: then smiling spake.<br /> <br />"I am Manfredi, grandson
+      to the Queen<br /> Costanza: whence I pray thee, when return'd,<br /> To my
+      fair daughter go, the parent glad<br /> Of Aragonia and Sicilia's pride;<br />
+      And of the truth inform her, if of me<br /> Aught else be told. &nbsp;When
+      by two mortal blows<br /> My frame was shatter'd, I betook myself<br />
+      Weeping to him, who of free will forgives.<br /> My sins were horrible; but
+      so wide arms<br /> Hath goodness infinite, that it receives<br /> All who
+      turn to it. &nbsp;Had this text divine<br /> Been of Cosenza's shepherd
+      better scann'd,<br /> Who then by Clement on my hunt was set,<br /> Yet at
+      the bridge's head my bones had lain,<br /> Near Benevento, by the heavy
+      mole<br /> Protected; but the rain now drenches them,<br /> And the wind
+      drives, out of the kingdom's bounds,<br /> Far as the stream of Verde,
+      where, with lights<br /> Extinguish'd, he remov'd them from their bed.<br />
+      Yet by their curse we are not so destroy'd,<br /> But that the eternal love
+      may turn, while hope<br /> Retains her verdant blossoms. &nbsp;True it is,<br />
+      That such one as in contumacy dies<br /> Against the holy church, though he
+      repent,<br /> Must wander thirty-fold for all the time<br /> In his
+      presumption past; if such decree<br /> Be not by prayers of good men
+      shorter made<br /> Look therefore if thou canst advance my bliss;<br />
+      Revealing to my good Costanza, how<br /> Thou hast beheld me, and beside
+      the terms<br /> Laid on me of that interdict; for here<br /> By means of
+      those below much profit comes." <br /><br /> <a name="link4" id="link4"></a>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO IV
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> When by sensations of delight or pain,<br /> That any of our
+      faculties hath seiz'd,<br /> Entire the soul collects herself, it seems<br />
+      She is intent upon that power alone,<br /> And thus the error is disprov'd
+      which holds<br /> The soul not singly lighted in the breast.<br /> And
+      therefore when as aught is heard or seen,<br /> That firmly keeps the soul
+      toward it turn'd,<br /> Time passes, and a man perceives it not.<br /> For
+      that, whereby he hearken, is one power,<br /> Another that, which the whole
+      spirit hash;<br /> This is as it were bound, while that is free.<br /> <br />This
+      found I true by proof, hearing that spirit<br /> And wond'ring; for full
+      fifty steps aloft<br /> The sun had measur'd unobserv'd of me,<br /> When we
+      arriv'd where all with one accord<br /> The spirits shouted, "Here is what
+      ye ask."<br /> <br />A larger aperture ofttimes is stopp'd<br /> With forked
+      stake of thorn by villager,<br /> When the ripe grape imbrowns, than was
+      the path,<br /> By which my guide, and I behind him close,<br /> Ascended
+      solitary, when that troop<br /> Departing left us. &nbsp;On Sanleo's road<br />
+      Who journeys, or to Noli low descends,<br /> Or mounts Bismantua's height,
+      must use his feet;<br /> But here a man had need to fly, I mean<br /> With
+      the swift wing and plumes of high desire,<br /> Conducted by his aid, who
+      gave me hope,<br /> And with light furnish'd to direct my way.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/04-31.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="04-31th.jpg (44K)" src="images/04-31th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />We through the broken rock ascended, close<br />
+      Pent on each side, while underneath the ground<br /> Ask'd help of hands
+      and feet. &nbsp;When we arriv'd<br /> Near on the highest ridge of the
+      steep bank,<br /> Where the plain level open'd I exclaim'd,<br /> "O master!
+      say which way can we proceed?"<br /> <br />He answer'd, "Let no step of
+      thine recede.<br /> Behind me gain the mountain, till to us<br /> Some
+      practis'd guide appear." &nbsp;That eminence<br /> Was lofty that no eye
+      might reach its point,<br /> And the side proudly rising, more than line<br />
+      From the mid quadrant to the centre drawn.<br /> I wearied thus began:
+      "Parent belov'd!<br /> Turn, and behold how I remain alone,<br /> If thou
+      stay not."&mdash;"My son!" &nbsp;He straight reply'd,<br /> "Thus far put
+      forth thy strength;" and to a track<br /> Pointed, that, on this side
+      projecting, round<br /> Circles the hill. &nbsp;His words so spurr'd me on,<br />
+      That I behind him clamb'ring, forc'd myself,<br /> Till my feet press'd the
+      circuit plain beneath.<br /> There both together seated, turn'd we round<br />
+      To eastward, whence was our ascent: and oft<br /> Many beside have with
+      delight look'd back.<br /> <br />First on the nether shores I turn'd my
+      eyes,<br /> Then rais'd them to the sun, and wond'ring mark'd<br /> That
+      from the left it smote us. &nbsp;Soon perceiv'd<br /> That Poet sage now at
+      the car of light<br /> Amaz'd I stood, where 'twixt us and the north<br />
+      Its course it enter'd. &nbsp;Whence he thus to me:<br /> "Were Leda's
+      offspring now in company<br /> Of that broad mirror, that high up and low<br />
+      Imparts his light beneath, thou might'st behold<br /> The ruddy zodiac
+      nearer to the bears<br /> Wheel, if its ancient course it not forsook.<br />
+      How that may be if thou would'st think; within<br /> Pond'ring, imagine
+      Sion with this mount<br /> Plac'd on the earth, so that to both be one<br />
+      Horizon, and two hemispheres apart,<br /> Where lies the path that Phaeton
+      ill knew<br /> To guide his erring chariot: thou wilt see<br /> How of
+      necessity by this on one<br /> He passes, while by that on the' other side,<br />
+      If with clear view shine intellect attend."<br /> <br />"Of truth, kind
+      teacher!" &nbsp;I exclaim'd, "so clear<br /> Aught saw I never, as I now
+      discern<br /> Where seem'd my ken to fail, that the mid orb<br /> Of the
+      supernal motion (which in terms<br /> Of art is called the Equator, and
+      remains<br /> Ever between the sun and winter) for the cause<br /> Thou hast
+      assign'd, from hence toward the north<br /> Departs, when those who in the
+      Hebrew land<br /> Inhabit, see it tow'rds the warmer part.<br /> But if it
+      please thee, I would gladly know,<br /> How far we have to journey: for the
+      hill<br /> Mounts higher, than this sight of mine can mount."<br /> <br />He
+      thus to me: "Such is this steep ascent,<br /> That it is ever difficult at
+      first,<br /> But, more a man proceeds, less evil grows.<br /> When pleasant
+      it shall seem to thee, so much<br /> That upward going shall be easy to
+      thee.<br /> As in a vessel to go down the tide,<br /> Then of this path thou
+      wilt have reach'd the end.<br /> There hope to rest thee from thy toil.
+      &nbsp;No more<br /> I answer, and thus far for certain know."<br /> As he
+      his words had spoken, near to us<br /> A voice there sounded: "Yet ye first
+      perchance<br /> May to repose you by constraint be led."<br /> At sound
+      thereof each turn'd, and on the left<br /> A huge stone we beheld, of which
+      nor I<br /> Nor he before was ware. &nbsp;Thither we drew,<br /> find there
+      were some, who in the shady place<br /> Behind the rock were standing, as a
+      man<br /> Thru' idleness might stand. &nbsp;Among them one,<br /> Who seem'd
+      to me much wearied, sat him down,<br /> And with his arms did fold his
+      knees about,<br /> Holding his face between them downward bent.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/04-100.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="04-100th.jpg (63K)" src="images/04-100th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />"Sweet Sir!" &nbsp;I cry'd, "behold that man,
+      who shows<br /> Himself more idle, than if laziness<br /> Were sister to
+      him." &nbsp;Straight he turn'd to us,<br /> And, o'er the thigh lifting his
+      face, observ'd,<br /> Then in these accents spake: "Up then, proceed<br />
+      Thou valiant one." &nbsp;Straight who it was I knew;<br /> Nor could the
+      pain I felt (for want of breath<br /> Still somewhat urg'd me) hinder my
+      approach.<br /> And when I came to him, he scarce his head<br /> Uplifted,
+      saying "Well hast thou discern'd,<br /> How from the left the sun his
+      chariot leads."<br /> <br />His lazy acts and broken words my lips<br /> To
+      laughter somewhat mov'd; when I began:<br /> "Belacqua, now for thee I
+      grieve no more.<br /> But tell, why thou art seated upright there?<br />
+      Waitest thou escort to conduct thee hence?<br /> Or blame I only shine
+      accustom'd ways?"<br /> Then he: "My brother, of what use to mount,<br />
+      When to my suffering would not let me pass<br /> The bird of God, who at
+      the portal sits?<br /> Behooves so long that heav'n first bear me round<br />
+      Without its limits, as in life it bore,<br /> Because I to the end
+      repentant Sighs<br /> Delay'd, if prayer do not aid me first,<br /> That
+      riseth up from heart which lives in grace.<br /> What other kind avails,
+      not heard in heaven?"'<br /> <br />Before me now the Poet up the mount<br />
+      Ascending, cried: "Haste thee, for see the sun<br /> Has touch'd the point
+      meridian, and the night<br /> Now covers with her foot Marocco's shore."
+      <br /> <br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /> <a name="link5"
+      id="link5"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO V
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Now had I left those spirits, and pursued<br /> The steps of my
+      Conductor, when beheld<br /> Pointing the finger at me one exclaim'd:<br />
+      "See how it seems as if the light not shone<br /> From the left hand of him
+      beneath, and he,<br /> As living, seems to be led on." &nbsp;Mine eyes<br />
+      I at that sound reverting, saw them gaze<br /> Through wonder first at me,
+      and then at me<br /> And the light broken underneath, by turns.<br /> "Why
+      are thy thoughts thus riveted?" &nbsp;my guide<br /> Exclaim'd, "that thou
+      hast slack'd thy pace? &nbsp;or how<br /> Imports it thee, what thing is
+      whisper'd here?<br /> Come after me, and to their babblings leave<br /> The
+      crowd. Be as a tower, that, firmly set,<br /> Shakes not its top for any
+      blast that blows!<br /> He, in whose bosom thought on thought shoots out,<br />
+      Still of his aim is wide, in that the one<br /> Sicklies and wastes to
+      nought the other's strength."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What
+      other could I answer save "I come?"<br /> I said it, somewhat with that
+      colour ting'd<br /> Which ofttimes pardon meriteth for man.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile
+      traverse along the hill there came,<br /> A little way before us, some who
+      sang<br /> The "Miserere" in responsive Strains.<br /> When they perceiv'd
+      that through my body I<br /> Gave way not for the rays to pass, their song<br />
+      Straight to a long and hoarse exclaim they chang'd;<br /> And two of them,
+      in guise of messengers,<br /> Ran on to meet us, and inquiring ask'd:<br />
+      "Of your condition we would gladly learn."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To
+      them my guide. &nbsp;"Ye may return, and bear<br /> Tidings to them who
+      sent you, that his frame<br /> Is real flesh. &nbsp;If, as I deem, to view<br />
+      His shade they paus'd, enough is answer'd them.<br /> Him let them honour,
+      they may prize him well."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ne'er saw I
+      fiery vapours with such speed<br /> Cut through the serene air at fall of
+      night,<br /> Nor August's clouds athwart the setting sun,<br /> That upward
+      these did not in shorter space<br /> Return; and, there arriving, with the
+      rest<br /> Wheel back on us, as with loose rein a troop.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/05-42.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="05-42th.jpg (38K)" src="images/05-42th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Many," exclaim'd the
+      bard, "are these, who throng<br /> Around us: to petition thee they come.<br />
+      Go therefore on, and listen as thou go'st."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"O
+      spirit! who go'st on to blessedness<br /> With the same limbs, that clad
+      thee at thy birth."<br /> Shouting they came, "a little rest thy step.<br />
+      Look if thou any one amongst our tribe<br /> Hast e'er beheld, that tidings
+      of him there<br /> Thou mayst report. &nbsp;Ah, wherefore go'st thou on?<br />
+      Ah wherefore tarriest thou not? &nbsp;We all<br /> By violence died, and to
+      our latest hour<br /> Were sinners, but then warn'd by light from heav'n,<br />
+      So that, repenting and forgiving, we<br /> Did issue out of life at peace
+      with God,<br /> Who with desire to see him fills our heart."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then
+      I: "The visages of all I scan<br /> Yet none of ye remember. &nbsp;But if
+      aught,<br /> That I can do, may please you, gentle spirits!<br /> Speak; and
+      I will perform it, by that peace,<br /> Which on the steps of guide so
+      excellent<br /> Following from world to world intent I seek."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In
+      answer he began: "None here distrusts<br /> Thy kindness, though not
+      promis'd with an oath;<br /> So as the will fail not for want of power.<br />
+      Whence I, who sole before the others speak,<br /> Entreat thee, if thou
+      ever see that land,<br /> Which lies between Romagna and the realm<br /> Of
+      Charles, that of thy courtesy thou pray<br /> Those who inhabit Fano, that
+      for me<br /> Their adorations duly be put up,<br /> By which I may purge off
+      my grievous sins.<br /> From thence I came. &nbsp;But the deep passages,<br />
+      Whence issued out the blood wherein I dwelt,<br /> Upon my bosom in
+      Antenor's land<br /> Were made, where to be more secure I thought.<br /> The
+      author of the deed was Este's prince,<br /> Who, more than right could
+      warrant, with his wrath<br /> Pursued me. &nbsp;Had I towards Mira fled,<br />
+      When overta'en at Oriaco, still<br /> Might I have breath'd. But to the
+      marsh I sped,<br /> And in the mire and rushes tangled there<br /> Fell, and
+      beheld my life-blood float the plain."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then
+      said another: "Ah! so may the wish,<br /> That takes thee o'er the
+      mountain, be fulfill'd,<br /> As thou shalt graciously give aid to mine.<br />
+      Of Montefeltro I; Buonconte I:<br /> Giovanna nor none else have care for
+      me,<br /> Sorrowing with these I therefore go." &nbsp;I thus:<br /> "From
+      Campaldino's field what force or chance<br /> Drew thee, that ne'er thy
+      sepulture was known?"<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Oh!" &nbsp;answer'd
+      he, "at Casentino's foot<br /> A stream there courseth, nam'd Archiano,
+      sprung<br /> In Apennine above the Hermit's seat.<br /> E'en where its name
+      is cancel'd, there came I,<br /> Pierc'd in the heart, fleeing away on
+      foot,<br /> And bloodying the plain. &nbsp;Here sight and speech<br />
+      Fail'd me, and finishing with Mary's name<br /> I fell, and tenantless my
+      flesh remain'd.<br /> I will report the truth; which thou again<br /> Tell
+      to the living. &nbsp;Me God's angel took,<br /> Whilst he of hell
+      exclaim'd: "O thou from heav'n!<br /> Say wherefore hast thou robb'd me?
+      &nbsp;Thou of him<br /> Th' eternal portion bear'st with thee away<br /> For
+      one poor tear that he deprives me of.<br /> But of the other, other rule I
+      make."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Thou knowest how in the
+      atmosphere collects<br /> That vapour dank, returning into water,<br /> Soon
+      as it mounts where cold condenses it.<br /> That evil will, which in his
+      intellect<br /> Still follows evil, came, and rais'd the wind<br /> And
+      smoky mist, by virtue of the power<br /> Given by his nature. &nbsp;Thence
+      the valley, soon<br /> As day was spent, he cover'd o'er with cloud<br />
+      From Pratomagno to the mountain range,<br /> And stretch'd the sky above,
+      so that the air<br /> Impregnate chang'd to water. &nbsp;Fell the rain,<br />
+      And to the fosses came all that the land<br /> Contain'd not; and, as
+      mightiest streams are wont,<br /> To the great river with such headlong
+      sweep<br /> Rush'd, that nought stay'd its course. &nbsp;My stiffen'd frame<br />
+      Laid at his mouth the fell Archiano found,<br /> And dash'd it into Arno,
+      from my breast<br /> Loos'ning the cross, that of myself I made<br /> When
+      overcome with pain. &nbsp;He hurl'd me on,<br /> Along the banks and bottom
+      of his course;<br /> Then in his muddy spoils encircling wrapt."<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/05-123.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="05-123th.jpg (44K)" src="images/05-123th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Ah! when thou to the
+      world shalt be return'd,<br /> And rested after thy long road," so spake<br />
+      Next the third spirit; "then remember me.<br /> I once was Pia. &nbsp;Sienna
+      gave me life,<br /> Maremma took it from me. &nbsp;That he knows,<br /> Who
+      me with jewell'd ring had first espous'd." <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a
+      href="images/05-130.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="05-130th.jpg (44K)" src="images/05-130th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a name="link6" id="link6"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO VI
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> When from their game of dice men separate,<br /> He, who hath lost,
+      remains in sadness fix'd,<br /> Revolving in his mind, what luckless throws<br />
+      He cast: but meanwhile all the company<br /> Go with the other; one before
+      him runs,<br /> And one behind his mantle twitches, one<br /> Fast by his
+      side bids him remember him.<br /> He stops not; and each one, to whom his
+      hand<br /> Is stretch'd, well knows he bids him stand aside;<br /> And thus
+      he from the press defends himself.<br /> E'en such was I in that
+      close-crowding throng;<br /> And turning so my face around to all,<br /> And
+      promising, I 'scap'd from it with pains.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Here
+      of Arezzo him I saw, who fell<br /> By Ghino's cruel arm; and him beside,<br />
+      Who in his chase was swallow'd by the stream.<br /> Here Frederic Novello,
+      with his hand<br /> Stretch'd forth, entreated; and of Pisa he,<br /> Who
+      put the good Marzuco to such proof<br /> Of constancy. &nbsp;Count Orso I
+      beheld;<br /> And from its frame a soul dismiss'd for spite<br /> And envy,
+      as it said, but for no crime:<br /> I speak of Peter de la Brosse; and
+      here,<br /> While she yet lives, that Lady of Brabant<br /> Let her beware;
+      lest for so false a deed<br /> She herd with worse than these. When I was
+      freed<br /> From all those spirits, who pray'd for others' prayers<br /> To
+      hasten on their state of blessedness;<br /> Straight I began: "O thou, my
+      luminary!<br /> It seems expressly in thy text denied,<br /> That heaven's
+      supreme decree can never bend<br /> To supplication; yet with this design<br />
+      Do these entreat. &nbsp;Can then their hope be vain,<br /> Or is thy saying
+      not to me reveal'd?"<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He thus to me:
+      "Both what I write is plain,<br /> And these deceiv'd not in their hope, if
+      well<br /> Thy mind consider, that the sacred height<br /> Of judgment doth
+      not stoop, because love's flame<br /> In a short moment all fulfils, which
+      he<br /> Who sojourns here, in right should satisfy.<br /> Besides, when I
+      this point concluded thus,<br /> By praying no defect could be supplied;<br />
+      Because the pray'r had none access to God.<br /> Yet in this deep suspicion
+      rest thou not<br /> Contented unless she assure thee so,<br /> Who betwixt
+      truth and mind infuses light.<br /> I know not if thou take me right; I
+      mean<br /> Beatrice. &nbsp;Her thou shalt behold above,<br /> Upon this
+      mountain's crown, fair seat of joy."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then
+      I: "Sir! let us mend our speed; for now<br /> I tire not as before; and lo!
+      the hill<br /> Stretches its shadow far." &nbsp;He answer'd thus:<br /> "Our
+      progress with this day shall be as much<br /> As we may now dispatch; but
+      otherwise<br /> Than thou supposest is the truth. &nbsp;For there<br /> Thou
+      canst not be, ere thou once more behold<br /> Him back returning, who
+      behind the steep<br /> Is now so hidden, that as erst his beam<br /> Thou
+      dost not break. &nbsp;But lo! a spirit there<br /> Stands solitary, and
+      toward us looks:<br /> It will instruct us in the speediest way."<br />
+      &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We soon approach'd it. &nbsp;O thou Lombard
+      spirit!<br /> How didst thou stand, in high abstracted mood,<br /> Scarce
+      moving with slow dignity thine eyes!<br /> It spoke not aught, but let us
+      onward pass,<br /> Eyeing us as a lion on his watch.<br /> But Virgil with
+      entreaty mild advanc'd,<br /> Requesting it to show the best ascent.<br />
+      It answer to his question none return'd,<br /> But of our country and our
+      kind of life<br /> Demanded. &nbsp;When my courteous guide began,<br />
+      "Mantua," the solitary shadow quick<br /> Rose towards us from the place in
+      which it stood,<br /> And cry'd, "Mantuan! I am thy countryman<br />
+      Sordello." &nbsp;Each the other then embrac'd.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah
+      slavish Italy! thou inn of grief,<br /> Vessel without a pilot in loud
+      storm,<br /> Lady no longer of fair provinces,<br /> But brothel-house
+      impure! this gentle spirit,<br /> Ev'n from the Pleasant sound of his dear
+      land<br /> Was prompt to greet a fellow citizen<br /> With such glad cheer;
+      while now thy living ones<br /> In thee abide not without war; and one<br />
+      Malicious gnaws another, ay of those<br /> Whom the same wall and the same
+      moat contains,<br /> Seek, wretched one! around thy sea-coasts wide;<br />
+      Then homeward to thy bosom turn, and mark<br /> If any part of the sweet
+      peace enjoy.<br /> What boots it, that thy reins Justinian's hand<br />
+      Befitted, if thy saddle be unpress'd?<br /> Nought doth he now but
+      aggravate thy shame.<br /> Ah people! thou obedient still shouldst live,<br />
+      And in the saddle let thy Caesar sit,<br /> If well thou marked'st that
+      which God commands.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Look how that beast
+      to felness hath relaps'd<br /> From having lost correction of the spur,<br />
+      Since to the bridle thou hast set thine hand,<br /> O German Albert! who
+      abandon'st her,<br /> That is grown savage and unmanageable,<br /> When thou
+      should'st clasp her flanks with forked heels.<br /> Just judgment from the
+      stars fall on thy blood!<br /> And be it strange and manifest to all!<br />
+      Such as may strike thy successor with dread!<br /> For that thy sire and
+      thou have suffer'd thus,<br /> Through greediness of yonder realms
+      detain'd,<br /> The garden of the empire to run waste.<br /> Come see the
+      Capulets and Montagues,<br /> The Philippeschi and Monaldi! man<br /> Who
+      car'st for nought! those sunk in grief, and these<br /> With dire suspicion
+      rack'd. Come, cruel one!<br /> Come and behold the' oppression of the
+      nobles,<br /> And mark their injuries: and thou mayst see.<br /> What safety
+      Santafiore can supply.<br /> Come and behold thy Rome, who calls on thee,<br />
+      Desolate widow! day and night with moans:<br /> "My Caesar, why dost thou
+      desert my side?"<br /> Come and behold what love among thy people:<br /> And
+      if no pity touches thee for us,<br /> Come and blush for thine own report.
+      &nbsp;For me,<br /> If it be lawful, O Almighty Power,<br /> Who wast in
+      earth for our sakes crucified!<br /> Are thy just eyes turn'd elsewhere?
+      &nbsp;or is this<br /> A preparation in the wond'rous depth<br /> Of thy
+      sage counsel made, for some good end,<br /> Entirely from our reach of
+      thought cut off?<br /> So are the' Italian cities all o'erthrong'd<br />
+      With tyrants, and a great Marcellus made<br /> Of every petty factious
+      villager.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My Florence! thou mayst well
+      remain unmov'd<br /> At this digression, which affects not thee:<br />
+      Thanks to thy people, who so wisely speed.<br /> Many have justice in their
+      heart, that long<br /> Waiteth for counsel to direct the bow,<br /> Or ere
+      it dart unto its aim: but shine<br /> Have it on their lip's edge. &nbsp;Many
+      refuse<br /> To bear the common burdens: readier thine<br /> Answer
+      uneall'd, and cry, "Behold I stoop!"<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Make
+      thyself glad, for thou hast reason now,<br /> Thou wealthy! thou at peace!
+      thou wisdom-fraught!<br /> Facts best witness if I speak the truth.<br />
+      Athens and Lacedaemon, who of old<br /> Enacted laws, for civil arts
+      renown'd,<br /> Made little progress in improving life<br /> Tow'rds thee,
+      who usest such nice subtlety,<br /> That to the middle of November scarce<br />
+      Reaches the thread thou in October weav'st.<br /> How many times, within
+      thy memory,<br /> Customs, and laws, and coins, and offices<br /> Have been
+      by thee renew'd, and people chang'd!<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If
+      thou remember'st well and can'st see clear,<br /> Thou wilt perceive
+      thyself like a sick wretch,<br /> Who finds no rest upon her down, but oft<br />
+      Shifting her side, short respite seeks from pain. <br /><br /> <a
+      name="link7" id="link7"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO VII
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> After their courteous greetings joyfully<br /> Sev'n times exchang'd,
+      Sordello backward drew<br /> Exclaiming, "Who are ye?" &nbsp;"Before this
+      mount<br /> By spirits worthy of ascent to God<br /> Was sought, my bones
+      had by Octavius' care<br /> Been buried. &nbsp;I am Virgil, for no sin<br />
+      Depriv'd of heav'n, except for lack of faith."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;So
+      answer'd him in few my gentle guide.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As
+      one, who aught before him suddenly<br /> Beholding, whence his wonder
+      riseth, cries<br /> "It is yet is not," wav'ring in belief;<br /> Such he
+      appear'd; then downward bent his eyes,<br /> And drawing near with
+      reverential step,<br /> Caught him, where of mean estate might clasp<br />
+      His lord. &nbsp;"Glory of Latium!" he exclaim'd,<br /> "In whom our tongue
+      its utmost power display'd!<br /> Boast of my honor'd birth-place! what
+      desert<br /> Of mine, what favour rather undeserv'd,<br /> Shows thee to me?
+      &nbsp;If I to hear that voice<br /> Am worthy, say if from below thou
+      com'st<br /> And from what cloister's pale?"&mdash;"Through every orb<br />
+      Of that sad region," he reply'd, "thus far<br /> Am I arriv'd, by heav'nly
+      influence led<br /> And with such aid I come. &nbsp;There is a place<br />
+      There underneath, not made by torments sad,<br /> But by dun shades alone;
+      where mourning's voice<br /> Sounds not of anguish sharp, but breathes in
+      sighs."<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/07-21.jpg">ENLARGE TO
+      FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="07-21th.jpg (40K)" src="images/07-21th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> There I with little innocents abide,<br /> Who by
+      death's fangs were bitten, ere exempt<br /> From human taint. &nbsp;There I
+      with those abide,<br /> Who the three holy virtues put not on,<br /> But
+      understood the rest, and without blame<br /> Follow'd them all. &nbsp;But
+      if thou know'st and canst,<br /> Direct us, how we soonest may arrive,<br />
+      Where Purgatory its true beginning takes."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He
+      answer'd thus: "We have no certain place<br /> Assign'd us: upwards I may
+      go or round,<br /> Far as I can, I join thee for thy guide.<br /> But thou
+      beholdest now how day declines:<br /> And upwards to proceed by night, our
+      power<br /> Excels: therefore it may be well to choose<br /> A place of
+      pleasant sojourn. &nbsp;To the right<br /> Some spirits sit apart retir'd.
+      &nbsp;If thou<br /> Consentest, I to these will lead thy steps:<br /> And
+      thou wilt know them, not without delight."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"How
+      chances this?" &nbsp;was answer'd; "who so wish'd<br /> To ascend by night,
+      would he be thence debarr'd<br /> By other, or through his own weakness
+      fail?"<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The good Sordello then, along
+      the ground<br /> Trailing his finger, spoke: "Only this line<br /> Thou
+      shalt not overpass, soon as the sun<br /> Hath disappear'd; not that aught
+      else impedes<br /> Thy going upwards, save the shades of night.<br /> These
+      with the wont of power perplex the will.<br /> With them thou haply mightst
+      return beneath,<br /> Or to and fro around the mountain's side<br /> Wander,
+      while day is in the horizon shut."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My
+      master straight, as wond'ring at his speech,<br /> Exclaim'd: "Then lead us
+      quickly, where thou sayst,<br /> That, while we stay, we may enjoy
+      delight."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A little space we were
+      remov'd from thence,<br /> When I perceiv'd the mountain hollow'd out.<br />
+      Ev'n as large valleys hollow'd out on earth,<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"That
+      way," the' escorting spirit cried, "we go,<br /> Where in a bosom the high
+      bank recedes:<br /> And thou await renewal of the day."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Betwixt
+      the steep and plain a crooked path<br /> Led us traverse into the ridge's
+      side,<br /> Where more than half the sloping edge expires.<br /> Refulgent
+      gold, and silver thrice refin'd,<br /> And scarlet grain and ceruse, Indian
+      wood<br /> Of lucid dye serene, fresh emeralds<br /> But newly broken, by
+      the herbs and flowers<br /> Plac'd in that fair recess, in color all<br />
+      Had been surpass'd, as great surpasses less.<br /> Nor nature only there
+      lavish'd her hues,<br /> But of the sweetness of a thousand smells<br /> A
+      rare and undistinguish'd fragrance made.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a
+      href="images/07-82.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="07-82th.jpg (43K)" src="images/07-82th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Salve Regina," on the
+      grass and flowers<br /> Here chanting I beheld those spirits sit<br /> Who
+      not beyond the valley could be seen.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Before
+      the west'ring sun sink to his bed,"<br /> Began the Mantuan, who our steps
+      had turn'd,<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"'Mid those desires not
+      that I lead ye on.<br /> For from this eminence ye shall discern<br />
+      Better the acts and visages of all,<br /> Than in the nether vale among
+      them mix'd.<br /> He, who sits high above the rest, and seems<br /> To have
+      neglected that he should have done,<br /> And to the others' song moves not
+      his lip,<br /> The Emperor Rodolph call, who might have heal'd<br /> The
+      wounds whereof fair Italy hath died,<br /> So that by others she revives
+      but slowly,<br /> He, who with kindly visage comforts him,<br /> Sway'd in
+      that country, where the water springs,<br /> That Moldaw's river to the
+      Elbe, and Elbe<br /> Rolls to the ocean: Ottocar his name:<br /> Who in his
+      swaddling clothes was of more worth<br /> Than Winceslaus his son, a
+      bearded man,<br /> Pamper'd with rank luxuriousness and ease.<br /> And that
+      one with the nose depress, who close<br /> In counsel seems with him of
+      gentle look,<br /> Flying expir'd, with'ring the lily's flower.<br /> Look
+      there how he doth knock against his breast!<br /> The other ye behold, who
+      for his cheek<br /> Makes of one hand a couch, with frequent sighs.<br />
+      They are the father and the father-in-law<br /> Of Gallia's bane: his
+      vicious life they know<br /> And foul; thence comes the grief that rends
+      them thus.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"He, so robust of limb, who
+      measure keeps<br /> In song, with him of feature prominent,<br /> With ev'ry
+      virtue bore his girdle brac'd.<br /> And if that stripling who behinds him
+      sits,<br /> King after him had liv'd, his virtue then<br /> From vessel to
+      like vessel had been pour'd;<br /> Which may not of the other heirs be
+      said.<br /> By James and Frederick his realms are held;<br /> Neither the
+      better heritage obtains.<br /> Rarely into the branches of the tree<br />
+      Doth human worth mount up; and so ordains<br /> He who bestows it, that as
+      his free gift<br /> It may be call'd. &nbsp;To Charles my words apply<br />
+      No less than to his brother in the song;<br /> Which Pouille and Provence
+      now with grief confess.<br /> So much that plant degenerates from its seed,<br />
+      As more than Beatrice and Margaret<br /> Costanza still boasts of her
+      valorous spouse.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Behold the king of
+      simple life and plain,<br /> Harry of England, sitting there alone:<br /> He
+      through his branches better issue spreads.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"That
+      one, who on the ground beneath the rest<br /> Sits lowest, yet his gaze
+      directs aloft,<br /> Us William, that brave Marquis, for whose cause<br />
+      The deed of Alexandria and his war<br /> Makes Conferrat and Canavese
+      weep." <br /><br /> <a name="link8" id="link8"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO VIII
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Now was the hour that wakens fond desire<br /> In men at sea, and
+      melts their thoughtful heart,<br /> Who in the morn have bid sweet friends
+      farewell,<br /> And pilgrim newly on his road with love<br /> Thrills, if he
+      hear the vesper bell from far,<br /> That seems to mourn for the expiring
+      day:<br /> When I, no longer taking heed to hear<br /> Began, with wonder,
+      from those spirits to mark<br /> One risen from its seat, which with its
+      hand<br /> Audience implor'd. Both palms it join'd and rais'd,<br /> Fixing
+      its steadfast gaze towards the east,<br /> As telling God, "I care for
+      naught beside."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Te Lucis Ante," so
+      devoutly then<br /> Came from its lip, and in so soft a strain,<br /> That
+      all my sense in ravishment was lost.<br /> And the rest after, softly and
+      devout,<br /> Follow'd through all the hymn, with upward gaze<br /> Directed
+      to the bright supernal wheels.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Here,
+      reader! for the truth makes thine eyes keen:<br /> For of so subtle texture
+      is this veil,<br /> That thou with ease mayst pass it through unmark'd.<br />
+      &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I saw that gentle band silently next<br />
+      Look up, as if in expectation held,<br /> Pale and in lowly guise; and from
+      on high<br /> I saw forth issuing descend beneath<br /> Two angels with two
+      flame-illumin'd swords,<br /> Broken and mutilated at their points.<br />
+      Green as the tender leaves but newly born,<br /> Their vesture was, the
+      which by wings as green<br /> Beaten, they drew behind them, fann'd in air.<br />
+      A little over us one took his stand,<br /> The other lighted on the'
+      Opposing hill,<br /> So that the troop were in the midst contain'd.<br />
+      &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Well I descried the whiteness on their
+      heads;<br /> But in their visages the dazzled eye<br /> Was lost, as faculty
+      that by too much<br /> Is overpower'd. &nbsp;"From Mary's bosom both<br />
+      Are come," exclaim'd Sordello, "as a guard<br /> Over the vale, ganst him,
+      who hither tends,<br /> The serpent." &nbsp;Whence, not knowing by which
+      path<br /> He came, I turn'd me round, and closely press'd,<br /> All
+      frozen, to my leader's trusted side.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sordello
+      paus'd not: "To the valley now<br /> (For it is time) let us descend; and
+      hold<br /> Converse with those great shadows: haply much<br /> Their sight
+      may please ye." &nbsp;Only three steps down<br /> Methinks I measur'd, ere
+      I was beneath,<br /> And noted one who look'd as with desire<br /> To know
+      me. &nbsp;Time was now that air arrow dim;<br /> Yet not so dim, that
+      'twixt his eyes and mine<br /> It clear'd not up what was conceal'd before.<br />
+      Mutually tow'rds each other we advanc'd.<br /> Nino, thou courteous judge!
+      what joy I felt,<br /> When I perceiv'd thou wert not with the bad!<br />
+      &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No salutation kind on either part<br /> Was
+      left unsaid. &nbsp;He then inquir'd: "How long<br /> Since thou arrived'st
+      at the mountain's foot,<br /> Over the distant waves?"&mdash;"O!" answer'd
+      I,<br /> "Through the sad seats of woe this morn I came,<br /> And still in
+      my first life, thus journeying on,<br /> The other strive to gain." &nbsp;Soon
+      as they heard<br /> My words, he and Sordello backward drew,<br /> As
+      suddenly amaz'd. &nbsp;To Virgil one,<br /> The other to a spirit turn'd,
+      who near<br /> Was seated, crying: "Conrad! up with speed:<br /> Come, see
+      what of his grace high God hath will'd."<br /> Then turning round to me:
+      "By that rare mark<br /> Of honour which thou ow'st to him, who hides<br />
+      So deeply his first cause, it hath no ford,<br /> When thou shalt be beyond
+      the vast of waves.<br /> Tell my Giovanna, that for me she call<br /> There,
+      where reply to innocence is made.<br /> Her mother, I believe, loves me no
+      more;<br /> Since she has chang'd the white and wimpled folds,<br /> Which
+      she is doom'd once more with grief to wish.<br /> By her it easily may be
+      perceiv'd,<br /> How long in women lasts the flame of love,<br /> If sight
+      and touch do not relume it oft.<br /> For her so fair a burial will not
+      make<br /> The viper which calls Milan to the field,<br /> As had been made
+      by shrill Gallura's bird."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He spoke,
+      and in his visage took the stamp<br /> Of that right seal, which with due
+      temperature<br /> Glows in the bosom. &nbsp;My insatiate eyes<br />
+      Meanwhile to heav'n had travel'd, even there<br /> Where the bright stars
+      are slowest, as a wheel<br /> Nearest the axle; when my guide inquir'd:<br />
+      "What there aloft, my son, has caught thy gaze?"<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I
+      answer'd: "The three torches, with which here<br /> The pole is all on
+      fire." &nbsp;He then to me:<br /> "The four resplendent stars, thou saw'st
+      this morn<br /> Are there beneath, and these ris'n in their stead."<br />
+      &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;While yet he spoke. &nbsp;Sordello to
+      himself<br /> Drew him, and cry'd: "Lo there our enemy!"<br /> And with his
+      hand pointed that way to look.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Along
+      the side, where barrier none arose<br /> Around the little vale, a serpent
+      lay,<br /> Such haply as gave Eve the bitter food.<br /> Between the grass
+      and flowers, the evil snake<br /> Came on, reverting oft his lifted head;<br />
+      And, as a beast that smoothes its polish'd coat,<br /> Licking his hack.
+      &nbsp;I saw not, nor can tell,<br /> How those celestial falcons from their
+      seat<br /> Mov'd, but in motion each one well descried,<br /> Hearing the
+      air cut by their verdant plumes.<br /> The serpent fled; and to their
+      stations back<br /> The angels up return'd with equal flight.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/frontispiece.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="front2.jpg (41K)" src="images/front2.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Spirit (who to
+      Nino, when he call'd,<br /> Had come), from viewing me with fixed ken,<br />
+      Through all that conflict, loosen'd not his sight.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"So
+      may the lamp, which leads thee up on high,<br /> Find, in thy destin'd lot,
+      of wax so much,<br /> As may suffice thee to the enamel's height."<br /> It
+      thus began: "If any certain news<br /> Of Valdimagra and the neighbour part<br />
+      Thou know'st, tell me, who once was mighty there<br /> They call'd me
+      Conrad Malaspina, not<br /> That old one, but from him I sprang. &nbsp;The
+      love<br /> I bore my people is now here refin'd."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"In
+      your dominions," I answer'd, "ne'er was I.<br /> But through all Europe
+      where do those men dwell,<br /> To whom their glory is not manifest?<br />
+      The fame, that honours your illustrious house,<br /> Proclaims the nobles
+      and proclaims the land;<br /> So that he knows it who was never there.<br />
+      I swear to you, so may my upward route<br /> Prosper! your honour'd nation
+      not impairs<br /> The value of her coffer and her sword.<br /> Nature and
+      use give her such privilege,<br /> That while the world is twisted from his
+      course<br /> By a bad head, she only walks aright,<br /> And has the evil
+      way in scorn." &nbsp;He then:<br /> "Now pass thee on: sev'n times the
+      tired sun<br /> Revisits not the couch, which with four feet<br /> The
+      forked Aries covers, ere that kind<br /> Opinion shall be nail'd into thy
+      brain<br /> With stronger nails than other's speech can drive,<br /> If the
+      sure course of judgment be not stay'd." <br /><br /> <a name="link9"
+      id="link9"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO IX
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /> <a href="images/09-1.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="09-1th.jpg (28K)" src="images/09-1th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> Now the fair consort of Tithonus old,<br /> Arisen
+      from her mate's beloved arms,<br /> Look'd palely o'er the eastern cliff:
+      her brow,<br /> Lucent with jewels, glitter'd, set in sign<br /> Of that
+      chill animal, who with his train<br /> Smites fearful nations: and where
+      then we were,<br /> Two steps of her ascent the night had past,<br /> And
+      now the third was closing up its wing,<br /> When I, who had so much of
+      Adam with me,<br /> Sank down upon the grass, o'ercome with sleep,<br />
+      There where all five were seated. &nbsp;In that hour,<br /> When near the
+      dawn the swallow her sad lay,<br /> Rememb'ring haply ancient grief,
+      renews,<br /> And with our minds more wand'rers from the flesh,<br /> And
+      less by thought restrain'd are, as 't were, full<br /> Of holy divination
+      in their dreams,<br /> Then in a vision did I seem to view<br /> A
+      golden-feather'd eagle in the sky,<br /> With open wings, and hov'ring for
+      descent,<br /> And I was in that place, methought, from whence<br /> Young
+      Ganymede, from his associates 'reft,<br /> Was snatch'd aloft to the high
+      consistory.<br /> "Perhaps," thought I within me, "here alone<br /> He
+      strikes his quarry, and elsewhere disdains<br /> To pounce upon the prey."
+      &nbsp;Therewith, it seem'd,<br /> A little wheeling in his airy tour<br />
+      Terrible as the lightning rush'd he down,<br /> And snatch'd me upward even
+      to the fire.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/09-29.jpg">ENLARGE
+      TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="09-29th.jpg (42K)" src="images/09-29th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> There both, I thought, the eagle and myself<br /> Did
+      burn; and so intense th' imagin'd flames,<br /> That needs my sleep was
+      broken off. &nbsp;As erst<br /> Achilles shook himself, and round him
+      roll'd<br /> His waken'd eyeballs wond'ring where he was,<br /> Whenas his
+      mother had from Chiron fled<br /> To Scyros, with him sleeping in her arms;<br />
+      E'en thus I shook me, soon as from my face<br /> The slumber parted,
+      turning deadly pale,<br /> Like one ice-struck with dread. &nbsp;Solo at my
+      side<br /> My comfort stood: and the bright sun was now<br /> More than two
+      hours aloft: and to the sea<br /> My looks were turn'd. &nbsp;"Fear not,"
+      my master cried,<br /> "Assur'd we are at happy point. &nbsp;Thy strength<br />
+      Shrink not, but rise dilated. &nbsp;Thou art come<br /> To Purgatory now.
+      &nbsp;Lo! there the cliff<br /> That circling bounds it! &nbsp;Lo! the
+      entrance there,<br /> Where it doth seem disparted! Ere the dawn<br />
+      Usher'd the daylight, when thy wearied soul<br /> Slept in thee, o'er the
+      flowery vale beneath<br /> A lady came, and thus bespake me: I<br /> Am
+      Lucia. &nbsp;Suffer me to take this man,<br /> Who slumbers. &nbsp;Easier
+      so his way shall speed."<br /> Sordello and the other gentle shapes<br />
+      Tarrying, she bare thee up: and, as day shone,<br /> This summit reach'd:
+      and I pursued her steps.<br /> Here did she place thee. &nbsp;First her
+      lovely eyes<br /> That open entrance show'd me; then at once<br /> She
+      vanish'd with thy sleep." &nbsp;Like one, whose doubts<br /> Are chas'd by
+      certainty, and terror turn'd<br /> To comfort on discovery of the truth,<br />
+      Such was the change in me: and as my guide<br /> Beheld me fearless, up
+      along the cliff<br /> He mov'd, and I behind him, towards the height.<br />
+      &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Reader! thou markest how my theme doth rise,<br />
+      Nor wonder therefore, if more artfully<br /> I prop the structure! Nearer
+      now we drew,<br /> Arriv'd' whence in that part, where first a breach<br />
+      As of a wall appear'd, I could descry<br /> A portal, and three steps
+      beneath, that led<br /> For inlet there, of different colour each,<br /> And
+      one who watch'd, but spake not yet a word.<br /> As more and more mine eye
+      did stretch its view,<br /> I mark'd him seated on the highest step,<br />
+      In visage such, as past my power to bear.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a
+      href="images/09-74.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="09-74th.jpg (41K)" src="images/09-74th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> Grasp'd in his hand a naked sword, glanc'd back<br />
+      The rays so toward me, that I oft in vain<br /> My sight directed. &nbsp;"Speak
+      from whence ye stand:"<br /> He cried: "What would ye? &nbsp;Where is your
+      escort?<br /> Take heed your coming upward harm ye not."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"A
+      heavenly dame, not skilless of these things,"<br /> Replied the'
+      instructor, "told us, even now,<br /> 'Pass that way: here the gate is."&mdash;"And
+      may she<br /> Befriending prosper your ascent," resum'd<br /> The courteous
+      keeper of the gate: "Come then<br /> Before our steps." &nbsp;We
+      straightway thither came.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The lowest
+      stair was marble white so smooth<br /> And polish'd, that therein my
+      mirror'd form<br /> Distinct I saw. &nbsp;The next of hue more dark<br />
+      Than sablest grain, a rough and singed block,<br /> Crack'd lengthwise and
+      across. &nbsp;The third, that lay<br /> Massy above, seem'd porphyry, that
+      flam'd<br /> Red as the life-blood spouting from a vein.<br /> On this God's
+      angel either foot sustain'd,<br /> Upon the threshold seated, which
+      appear'd<br /> A rock of diamond. &nbsp;Up the trinal steps<br /> My leader
+      cheerily drew me. &nbsp;"Ask," said he,<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"With
+      humble heart, that he unbar the bolt."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Piously
+      at his holy feet devolv'd<br /> I cast me, praying him for pity's sake<br />
+      That he would open to me: but first fell<br /> Thrice on my bosom
+      prostrate. &nbsp;Seven times<br /> The letter, that denotes the inward
+      stain,<br /> He on my forehead with the blunted point<br /> Of his drawn
+      sword inscrib'd. &nbsp;And "Look," he cried,<br /> "When enter'd, that thou
+      wash these scars away."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashes, or earth
+      ta'en dry out of the ground,<br /> Were of one colour with the robe he
+      wore.<br /> From underneath that vestment forth he drew<br /> Two keys of
+      metal twain: the one was gold,<br /> Its fellow silver. &nbsp;With the
+      pallid first,<br /> And next the burnish'd, he so ply'd the gate,<br /> As
+      to content me well. &nbsp;"Whenever one<br /> Faileth of these, that in the
+      keyhole straight<br /> It turn not, to this alley then expect<br /> Access
+      in vain." &nbsp;Such were the words he spake.<br /> "One is more precious:
+      but the other needs<br /> Skill and sagacity, large share of each,<br /> Ere
+      its good task to disengage the knot<br /> Be worthily perform'd. &nbsp;From
+      Peter these<br /> I hold, of him instructed, that I err<br /> Rather in
+      opening than in keeping fast;<br /> So but the suppliant at my feet
+      implore."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then of that hallow'd gate he
+      thrust the door,<br /> Exclaiming, "Enter, but this warning hear:<br /> He
+      forth again departs who looks behind."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As
+      in the hinges of that sacred ward<br /> The swivels turn'd, sonorous metal
+      strong,<br /> Harsh was the grating; nor so surlily<br /> Roar'd the
+      Tarpeian, when by force bereft<br /> Of good Metellus, thenceforth from his
+      loss<br /> To leanness doom'd. &nbsp;Attentively I turn'd,<br /> List'ning
+      the thunder, that first issued forth;<br /> And "We praise thee, O God,"
+      methought I heard<br /> In accents blended with sweet melody.<br /> The
+      strains came o'er mine ear, e'en as the sound<br /> Of choral voices, that
+      in solemn chant<br /> With organ mingle, and, now high and clear,<br /> Come
+      swelling, now float indistinct away. <br /><br /> <a name="link10"
+      id="link10"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO X
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> When we had passed the threshold of the gate<br /> (Which the soul's
+      ill affection doth disuse,<br /> Making the crooked seem the straighter
+      path),<br /> I heard its closing sound. &nbsp;Had mine eyes turn'd,<br />
+      For that offence what plea might have avail'd?<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We
+      mounted up the riven rock, that wound<br /> On either side alternate, as
+      the wave<br /> Flies and advances. &nbsp;"Here some little art<br />
+      Behooves us," said my leader, "that our steps<br /> Observe the varying
+      flexure of the path."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thus we so slowly
+      sped, that with cleft orb<br /> The moon once more o'erhangs her wat'ry
+      couch,<br /> Ere we that strait have threaded. &nbsp;But when free<br /> We
+      came and open, where the mount above<br /> One solid mass retires, I spent,
+      with toil,<br /> And both, uncertain of the way, we stood,<br /> Upon a
+      plain more lonesome, than the roads<br /> That traverse desert wilds.
+      &nbsp;From whence the brink<br /> Borders upon vacuity, to foot<br /> Of the
+      steep bank, that rises still, the space<br /> Had measur'd thrice the
+      stature of a man:<br /> And, distant as mine eye could wing its flight,<br />
+      To leftward now and now to right dispatch'd,<br /> That cornice equal in
+      extent appear'd.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not yet our feet had
+      on that summit mov'd,<br /> When I discover'd that the bank around,<br />
+      Whose proud uprising all ascent denied,<br /> Was marble white, and so
+      exactly wrought<br /> With quaintest sculpture, that not there alone<br />
+      Had Polycletus, but e'en nature's self<br /> Been sham'd. &nbsp;The angel
+      who came down to earth<br /> With tidings of the peace so many years<br />
+      Wept for in vain, that op'd the heavenly gates<br /> From their long
+      interdict before us seem'd,<br /> In a sweet act, so sculptur'd to the
+      life,<br /> He look'd no silent image. One had sworn<br /> He had said,
+      "Hail!" for she was imag'd there,<br /> By whom the key did open to God's
+      love,<br /> And in her act as sensibly impress<br /> That word, "Behold the
+      handmaid of the Lord,"<br /> As figure seal'd on wax. &nbsp;"Fix not thy
+      mind<br /> On one place only," said the guide belov'd,<br /> Who had me near
+      him on that part where lies<br /> The heart of man. &nbsp;My sight
+      forthwith I turn'd<br /> And mark'd, behind the virgin mother's form,<br />
+      Upon that side, where he, that mov'd me, stood,<br /> Another story graven
+      on the rock.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I passed athwart the bard,
+      and drew me near,<br /> That it might stand more aptly for my view.<br />
+      There in the self-same marble were engrav'd<br /> The cart and kine,
+      drawing the sacred ark,<br /> That from unbidden office awes mankind.<br />
+      Before it came much people; and the whole<br /> Parted in seven quires.
+      &nbsp;One sense cried, "Nay,"<br /> Another, "Yes, they sing." &nbsp;Like
+      doubt arose<br /> Betwixt the eye and smell, from the curl'd fume<br /> Of
+      incense breathing up the well-wrought toil.<br /> Preceding the blest
+      vessel, onward came<br /> With light dance leaping, girt in humble guise,<br />
+      Sweet Israel's harper: in that hap he seem'd<br /> Less and yet more than
+      kingly. &nbsp;Opposite,<br /> At a great palace, from the lattice forth<br />
+      Look'd Michol, like a lady full of scorn<br /> And sorrow. &nbsp;To behold
+      the tablet next,<br /> Which at the hack of Michol whitely shone,<br /> I
+      mov'd me. &nbsp;There was storied on the rock<br /> The' exalted glory of
+      the Roman prince,<br /> Whose mighty worth mov'd Gregory to earn<br /> His
+      mighty conquest, Trajan th' Emperor.<br /> A widow at his bridle stood,
+      attir'd<br /> In tears and mourning. &nbsp;Round about them troop'd<br />
+      Full throng of knights, and overhead in gold<br /> The eagles floated,
+      struggling with the wind.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a
+      href="images/10-74.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="10-74th.jpg (40K)" src="images/10-74th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> The wretch appear'd amid all these to say:<br />
+      "Grant vengeance, sire! for, woe beshrew this heart<br /> My son is
+      murder'd." &nbsp;He replying seem'd;<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Wait
+      now till I return." And she, as one<br /> Made hasty by her grief; "O sire,
+      if thou<br /> Dost not return?"&mdash;"Where I am, who then is,<br /> May
+      right thee."&mdash;"What to thee is other's good,<br /> If thou neglect thy
+      own?"&mdash;"Now comfort thee,"<br /> At length he answers. &nbsp;"It
+      beseemeth well<br /> My duty be perform'd, ere I move hence:<br /> So
+      justice wills; and pity bids me stay."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He,
+      whose ken nothing new surveys, produc'd<br /> That visible speaking, new to
+      us and strange<br /> The like not found on earth. &nbsp;Fondly I gaz'd<br />
+      Upon those patterns of meek humbleness,<br /> Shapes yet more precious for
+      their artist's sake,<br /> When "Lo," the poet whisper'd, "where this way<br />
+      (But slack their pace), a multitude advance.<br /> These to the lofty steps
+      shall guide us on."<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mine eyes, though
+      bent on view of novel sights<br /> Their lov'd allurement, were not slow to
+      turn.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Reader! I would not that amaz'd
+      thou miss<br /> Of thy good purpose, hearing how just God<br /> Decrees our
+      debts be cancel'd. &nbsp;Ponder not<br /> The form of suff'ring. &nbsp;Think
+      on what succeeds,<br /> Think that at worst beyond the mighty doom<br /> It
+      cannot pass. &nbsp;"Instructor," I began,<br /> "What I see hither tending,
+      bears no trace<br /> Of human semblance, nor of aught beside<br /> That my
+      foil'd sight can guess." &nbsp;He answering thus:<br /> "So courb'd to
+      earth, beneath their heavy teems<br /> Of torment stoop they, that mine eye
+      at first<br /> Struggled as thine. &nbsp;But look intently thither,<br /> An
+      disentangle with thy lab'ring view,<br /> What underneath those stones
+      approacheth: now,<br /> E'en now, mayst thou discern the pangs of each."<br />
+      &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Christians and proud! O poor and wretched
+      ones!<br /> That feeble in the mind's eye, lean your trust<br /> Upon
+      unstaid perverseness! Know ye not<br /> That we are worms, yet made at last
+      to form<br /> The winged insect, imp'd with angel plumes<br /> That to
+      heaven's justice unobstructed soars?<br /> Why buoy ye up aloft your
+      unfleg'd souls?<br /> Abortive then and shapeless ye remain,<br /> Like the
+      untimely embryon of a worm!<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As, to
+      support incumbent floor or roof,<br /> For corbel is a figure sometimes
+      seen,<br /> That crumples up its knees unto its breast,<br /> With the
+      feign'd posture stirring ruth unfeign'd<br /> In the beholder's fancy; so I
+      saw<br /> These fashion'd, when I noted well their guise.<br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Each,
+      as his back was laden, came indeed<br /> Or more or less contract; but it
+      appear'd<br /> As he, who show'd most patience in his look,<br /> Wailing
+      exclaim'd: "I can endure no more." <br /> <br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br />
+      <br /><br /> <a name="link11" id="link11"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XI
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> "O thou Almighty Father, who dost make<br /> The heavens thy
+      dwelling, not in bounds confin'd,<br /> But that with love intenser there
+      thou view'st<br /> Thy primal effluence, hallow'd be thy name:<br /> Join
+      each created being to extol<br /> Thy might, for worthy humblest thanks and
+      praise<br /> Is thy blest Spirit. &nbsp;May thy kingdom's peace<br /> Come
+      unto us; for we, unless it come,<br /> With all our striving thither tend
+      in vain.<br /> As of their will the angels unto thee<br /> Tender meet
+      sacrifice, circling thy throne<br /> With loud hosannas, so of theirs be
+      done<br /> By saintly men on earth. &nbsp;Grant us this day<br /> Our daily
+      manna, without which he roams<br /> Through this rough desert retrograde,
+      who most<br /> Toils to advance his steps. &nbsp;As we to each<br /> Pardon
+      the evil done us, pardon thou<br /> Benign, and of our merit take no count.<br />
+      'Gainst the old adversary prove thou not<br /> Our virtue easily subdu'd;
+      but free<br /> From his incitements and defeat his wiles.<br /> This last
+      petition, dearest Lord! is made<br /> Not for ourselves, since that were
+      needless now,<br /> But for their sakes who after us remain."<br /> <br />Thus
+      for themselves and us good speed imploring,<br /> Those spirits went
+      beneath a weight like that<br /> We sometimes feel in dreams, all, sore
+      beset,<br /> But with unequal anguish, wearied all,<br /> Round the first
+      circuit, purging as they go,<br /> The world's gross darkness off: In our
+      behalf<br /> If there vows still be offer'd, what can here<br /> For them be
+      vow'd and done by such, whose wills<br /> Have root of goodness in them?
+      &nbsp;Well beseems<br /> That we should help them wash away the stains<br />
+      They carried hence, that so made pure and light,<br /> They may spring
+      upward to the starry spheres.<br /> <br />"Ah! &nbsp;so may mercy-temper'd
+      justice rid<br /> Your burdens speedily, that ye have power<br /> To stretch
+      your wing, which e'en to your desire<br /> Shall lift you, as ye show us on
+      which hand<br /> Toward the ladder leads the shortest way.<br /> And if
+      there be more passages than one,<br /> Instruct us of that easiest to
+      ascend;<br /> For this man who comes with me, and bears yet<br /> The charge
+      of fleshly raiment Adam left him,<br /> Despite his better will but slowly
+      mounts."<br /> From whom the answer came unto these words,<br /> Which my
+      guide spake, appear'd not; but 'twas said.<br /> <br />"Along the bank to
+      rightward come with us,<br /> And ye shall find a pass that mocks not toil<br />
+      Of living man to climb: and were it not<br /> That I am hinder'd by the
+      rock, wherewith<br /> This arrogant neck is tam'd, whence needs I stoop<br />
+      My visage to the ground, him, who yet lives,<br /> Whose name thou speak'st
+      not him I fain would view.<br /> To mark if e'er I knew him? &nbsp;and to
+      crave<br /> His pity for the fardel that I bear.<br /> I was of Latiun,
+      &nbsp;of a Tuscan horn<br /> A mighty one: Aldobranlesco's name<br /> My
+      sire's, I know not if ye e'er have heard.<br /> My old blood and
+      forefathers' gallant deeds<br /> Made me so haughty, that I clean forgot<br />
+      The common mother, and to such excess,<br /> Wax'd in my scorn of all men,
+      that I fell,<br /> Fell therefore; by what fate Sienna's sons,<br /> Each
+      child in Campagnatico, can tell.<br /> I am Omberto; not me only pride<br />
+      Hath injur'd, but my kindred all involv'd<br /> In mischief with her.
+      &nbsp;Here my lot ordains<br /> Under this weight to groan, till I appease<br />
+      God's angry justice, since I did it not<br /> Amongst the living, here
+      amongst the dead."<br /> <br />List'ning I bent my visage down: and one<br />
+      (Not he who spake) twisted beneath the weight<br /> That urg'd him, saw me,
+      knew me straight, and call'd,<br /> Holding his eyes With difficulty fix'd<br />
+      Intent upon me, stooping as I went<br /> Companion of their way. &nbsp;"O!"
+      &nbsp;I exclaim'd,<br /> <br />"Art thou not Oderigi, art not thou<br />
+      Agobbio's glory, glory of that art<br /> Which they of Paris call the
+      limmer's skill?"<br /> <br />"Brother!" said he, "with tints that gayer
+      smile,<br /> Bolognian Franco's pencil lines the leaves.<br /> His all the
+      honour now; mine borrow'd light.<br /> In truth I had not been thus
+      courteous to him,<br /> The whilst I liv'd, through eagerness of zeal<br />
+      For that pre-eminence my heart was bent on.<br /> Here of such pride the
+      forfeiture is paid.<br /> Nor were I even here; if, able still<br /> To sin,
+      I had not turn'd me unto God.<br /> O powers of man! &nbsp;how vain your
+      glory, nipp'd<br /> E'en in its height of verdure, if an age<br /> Less
+      bright succeed not! &nbsp;Cimabue thought<br /> To lord it over painting's
+      field; and now<br /> The cry is Giotto's, and his name eclips'd.<br /> Thus
+      hath one Guido from the other snatch'd<br /> The letter'd prize: and he
+      perhaps is born,<br /> Who shall drive either from their nest. &nbsp;The
+      noise<br /> Of worldly fame is but a blast of wind,<br /> That blows from
+      divers points, and shifts its name<br /> Shifting the point it blows from.
+      &nbsp;Shalt thou more<br /> Live in the mouths of mankind, if thy flesh<br />
+      Part shrivel'd from thee, than if thou hadst died,<br /> Before the coral
+      and the pap were left,<br /> Or ere some thousand years have passed? and
+      that<br /> Is, to eternity compar'd, a space,<br /> Briefer than is the
+      twinkling of an eye<br /> To the heaven's slowest orb. &nbsp;He there who
+      treads<br /> So leisurely before me, far and wide<br /> Through Tuscany
+      resounded once; and now<br /> Is in Sienna scarce with whispers nam'd:<br />
+      There was he sov'reign, when destruction caught<br /> The madd'ning rage of
+      Florence, in that day<br /> Proud as she now is loathsome. &nbsp;Your
+      renown<br /> Is as the herb, whose hue doth come and go,<br /> And his might
+      withers it, by whom it sprang<br /> Crude from the lap of earth." &nbsp;I
+      thus to him:<br /> "True are thy sayings: to my heart they breathe<br /> The
+      kindly spirit of meekness, and allay<br /> What tumours rankle there.
+      &nbsp;But who is he<br /> Of whom thou spak'st but now?"--"This," he
+      replied,<br /> "Is Provenzano. &nbsp;He is here, because<br /> He reach'd,
+      with grasp presumptuous, at the sway<br /> Of all Sienna. &nbsp;Thus he
+      still hath gone,<br /> Thus goeth never-resting, since he died.<br /> Such
+      is th' acquittance render'd back of him,<br /> Who, beyond measure, dar'd
+      on earth." &nbsp;I then:<br /> "If soul that to the verge of life delays<br />
+      Repentance, linger in that lower space,<br /> Nor hither mount, unless good
+      prayers befriend,<br /> How chanc'd admittance was vouchsaf'd to him?"<br />
+      <br />"When at his glory's topmost height," said he,<br /> "Respect of
+      dignity all cast aside,<br /> Freely He fix'd him on Sienna's plain,<br /> A
+      suitor to &nbsp;redeem his suff'ring friend,<br /> Who languish'd in the
+      prison-house of Charles,<br /> Nor for his sake refus'd through every vein<br />
+      To tremble. &nbsp;More I will not say; and dark,<br /> I know, my words
+      are, but thy neighbours soon<br /> Shall help thee to a comment on the
+      text.<br /> This is the work, that from these limits freed him." <br /><br />
+      <a name="link12" id="link12"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XII
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /> <a href="images/12-1.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="12-1th.jpg (60K)" src="images/12-1th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> With equal pace as oxen in the yoke,<br /> I with that
+      laden spirit journey'd on<br /> Long as the mild instructor suffer'd me;<br />
+      But when he bade me quit him, and proceed<br /> (For "here," said he,
+      "behooves with sail and oars<br /> Each man, as best he may, push on his
+      bark"),<br /> Upright, as one dispos'd for speed, I rais'd<br /> My body,
+      still in thought submissive bow'd.<br /> <br />I now my leader's track not
+      loth pursued;<br /> And each had shown how light we far'd along<br /> When
+      thus he warn'd me: "Bend thine eyesight down:<br /> For thou to ease the
+      way shall find it good<br /> To ruminate the bed beneath thy feet."<br />
+      <br />As in memorial of the buried, drawn<br /> Upon earth-level tombs, the
+      sculptur'd form<br /> Of what was once, appears (at sight whereof<br />
+      Tears often stream forth by remembrance wak'd,<br /> Whose sacred stings
+      the piteous only feel),<br /> So saw I there, but with more curious skill<br />
+      Of portraiture o'erwrought, whate'er of space<br /> From forth the mountain
+      stretches. &nbsp;On one part<br /> Him I beheld, above all creatures erst<br />
+      Created noblest, light'ning fall from heaven:<br /> On th' other side with
+      bolt celestial pierc'd<br /> Briareus: cumb'ring earth he lay through dint<br />
+      Of mortal ice-stroke. &nbsp;The Thymbraean god<br /> With Mars, I saw, and
+      Pallas, round their sire,<br /> Arm'd still, and gazing on the giant's
+      limbs<br /> Strewn o'er th' ethereal field. &nbsp;Nimrod I saw:<br /> At
+      foot of the stupendous work he stood,<br /> As if bewilder'd, looking on
+      the crowd<br /> Leagued in his proud attempt on Sennaar's plain.<br /> <br />O
+      Niobe! &nbsp;in what a trance of woe<br /> Thee I beheld, upon that highway
+      drawn,<br /> Sev'n sons on either side thee slain! &nbsp;O Saul!<br /> How
+      ghastly didst thou look! &nbsp;on thine own sword<br /> Expiring in Gilboa,
+      from that hour<br /> Ne'er visited with rain from heav'n or dew!<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/12-39.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="12-39th.jpg (40K)" src="images/12-39th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />O fond Arachne! &nbsp;thee I also saw<br /> Half
+      spider now in anguish crawling up<br /> Th' unfinish'd web thou weaved'st
+      to thy bane!<br /> <br />O Rehoboam! &nbsp;here thy shape doth seem<br />
+      Louring no more defiance! but fear-smote<br /> With none to chase him in
+      his chariot whirl'd.<br /> <br />Was shown beside upon the solid floor<br />
+      How dear Alcmaeon forc'd his mother rate<br /> That ornament in evil hour
+      receiv'd:<br /> How in the temple on Sennacherib fell<br /> His sons, and
+      how a corpse they left him there.<br /> Was shown the scath and cruel
+      mangling made<br /> By Tomyris on Cyrus, when she cried:<br /> "Blood thou
+      didst thirst for, take thy fill of blood!"<br /> Was shown how routed in
+      the battle fled<br /> Th' Assyrians, Holofernes slain, and e'en<br /> The
+      relics of the carnage. &nbsp;Troy I mark'd<br /> In ashes and in caverns.
+      &nbsp;Oh! &nbsp;how fall'n,<br /> How abject, Ilion, was thy semblance
+      there!<br /> <br />What master of the pencil or the style<br /> Had trac'd
+      the shades and lines, that might have made<br /> The subtlest workman
+      wonder? &nbsp;Dead the dead,<br /> The living seem'd alive; with clearer
+      view<br /> His eye beheld not who beheld the truth,<br /> Than mine what I
+      did tread on, while I went<br /> Low bending. &nbsp;Now swell out; and with
+      stiff necks<br /> Pass on, ye sons of Eve! &nbsp;veil not your looks,<br />
+      Lest they descry the evil of your path!<br /> <br />I noted not (so busied
+      was my thought)<br /> How much we now had circled of the mount,<br /> And of
+      his course yet more the sun had spent,<br /> When he, who with still
+      wakeful caution went,<br /> Admonish'd: "Raise thou up thy head: for know<br />
+      Time is not now for slow suspense. &nbsp;Behold<br /> That way an angel
+      hasting towards us! &nbsp;Lo<br /> Where duly the sixth handmaid doth
+      return<br /> From service on the day. &nbsp;Wear thou in look<br /> And
+      gesture seemly grace of reverent awe,<br /> That gladly he may forward us
+      aloft.<br /> Consider that this day ne'er dawns again."<br /> <br />Time's
+      loss he had so often warn'd me 'gainst,<br /> I could not miss the scope at
+      which he aim'd.<br /> <br />The goodly shape approach'd us, snowy white<br />
+      In vesture, and with visage casting streams<br /> Of tremulous lustre like
+      the matin star.<br /> His arms he open'd, then his wings; and spake:<br />
+      "Onward: the steps, behold! &nbsp;are near; and now<br /> Th' ascent is
+      without difficulty gain'd."<br /> <br />A scanty few are they, who when they
+      hear<br /> Such tidings, hasten. &nbsp;O ye race of men<br /> Though born to
+      soar, why suffer ye a wind<br /> So slight to baffle ye? &nbsp;He led us on<br />
+      Where the rock parted; here against my front<br /> Did beat his wings, then
+      promis'd I should fare<br /> In safety on my way. &nbsp;As to ascend<br />
+      That steep, upon whose brow the chapel stands<br /> (O'er Rubaconte,
+      looking lordly down<br /> On the well-guided city,) up the right<br /> Th'
+      impetuous rise is broken by the steps<br /> Carv'd in that old and simple
+      age, when still<br /> The registry and label rested safe;<br /> Thus is th'
+      acclivity reliev'd, which here<br /> Precipitous from the other circuit
+      falls:<br /> But on each hand the tall cliff presses close.<br /> <br />As
+      ent'ring there we turn'd, voices, in strain<br /> Ineffable, sang: "Blessed
+      are the poor<br /> In spirit." &nbsp;Ah how far unlike to these<br /> The
+      straits of hell; here songs to usher us,<br /> There shrieks of woe! &nbsp;We
+      climb the holy stairs:<br /> And lighter to myself by far I seem'd<br />
+      Than on the plain before, whence thus I spake:<br /> "Say, master, of what
+      heavy thing have I<br /> Been lighten'd, that scarce aught the sense of
+      toil<br /> Affects me journeying?" &nbsp;He in few replied:<br /> "When
+      sin's broad characters, that yet remain<br /> Upon thy temples, though well
+      nigh effac'd,<br /> Shall be, as one is, all clean razed out,<br /> Then
+      shall thy feet by heartiness of will<br /> Be so o'ercome, they not alone
+      shall feel<br /> No sense of labour, but delight much more<br /> Shall wait
+      them urg'd along their upward way."<br /> <br />Then like to one, upon whose
+      head is plac'd<br /> Somewhat he deems not of but from the becks<br /> Of
+      others as they pass him by; his hand<br /> Lends therefore help to' assure
+      him, searches, finds,<br /> And well performs such office as the eye<br />
+      Wants power to execute: so stretching forth<br /> The fingers of my right
+      hand, did I find<br /> Six only of the letters, which his sword<br /> Who
+      bare the keys had trac'd upon my brow.<br /> The leader, as he mark'd mine
+      action, smil'd. <br /><br /> <a name="link13" id="link13"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XIII
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> We reach'd the summit of the scale, and stood<br /> Upon the second
+      buttress of that mount<br /> Which healeth him who climbs. &nbsp;A cornice
+      there,<br /> Like to the former, girdles round the hill;<br /> Save that its
+      arch with sweep less ample bends.<br /> <br />Shadow nor image there is
+      seen; all smooth<br /> The rampart and the path, reflecting nought<br /> But
+      the rock's sullen hue. &nbsp;"If here we wait<br /> For some to question,"
+      said the bard, "I fear<br /> Our choice may haply meet too long delay."<br />
+      <br />Then fixedly upon the sun his eyes<br /> He fastn'd, made his right
+      the central point<br /> From whence to move, and turn'd the left aside.<br />
+      "O pleasant light, my confidence and hope,<br /> Conduct us thou," he
+      cried, "on this new way,<br /> Where now I venture, leading to the bourn<br />
+      We seek. &nbsp;The universal world to thee<br /> Owes warmth and lustre.
+      &nbsp;If no other cause<br /> Forbid, thy beams should ever be our guide."<br />
+      <br />Far, as is measur'd for a mile on earth,<br /> In brief space had we
+      journey'd; such prompt will<br /> Impell'd; and towards us flying, now were
+      heard<br /> Spirits invisible, who courteously<br /> Unto love's table bade
+      the welcome guest.<br /> The voice, that first? &nbsp;flew by, call'd forth
+      aloud,<br /> "They have no wine;" so on behind us past,<br /> Those sounds
+      reiterating, nor yet lost<br /> In the faint distance, when another came<br />
+      Crying, "I am Orestes," and alike<br /> Wing'd its fleet way. &nbsp;"Oh
+      father!" &nbsp;I exclaim'd,<br /> "What tongues are these?" &nbsp;and as I
+      question'd, lo!<br /> A third exclaiming, "Love ye those have wrong'd you."<br />
+      <br />"This circuit," said my teacher, "knots the scourge<br /> For envy,
+      and the cords are therefore drawn<br /> By charity's correcting hand.
+      &nbsp;The curb<br /> Is of a harsher sound, as thou shalt hear<br /> (If I
+      deem rightly), ere thou reach the pass,<br /> Where pardon sets them free.
+      &nbsp;But fix thine eyes<br /> Intently through the air, and thou shalt see<br />
+      A multitude before thee seated, each<br /> Along the shelving grot." &nbsp;Then
+      more than erst<br /> I op'd my eyes, before me view'd, and saw<br /> Shadows
+      with garments dark as was the rock;<br /> And when we pass'd a little
+      forth, I heard<br /> A crying, "Blessed Mary! pray for us,<br /> Michael and
+      Peter! &nbsp;all ye saintly host!"<br /> <br />I do not think there walks on
+      earth this day<br /> Man so remorseless, that he hath not yearn'd<br /> With
+      pity at the sight that next I saw.<br /> Mine eyes a load of sorrow teemed,
+      when now<br /> I stood so near them, that their semblances<br /> Came
+      clearly to my view. &nbsp;Of sackcloth vile<br /> Their cov'ring seem'd;
+      and on his shoulder one<br /> Did stay another, leaning, and all lean'd<br />
+      Against the cliff. &nbsp;E'en thus the blind and poor,<br /> Near the
+      confessionals, to crave an alms,<br /> Stand, each his head upon his
+      fellow's sunk,<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/13-55.jpg">ENLARGE
+      TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="13-55th.jpg (47K)" src="images/13-55th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> So most to stir compassion, not by sound<br /> Of
+      words alone, but that, which moves not less,<br /> The sight of mis'ry.
+      &nbsp;And as never beam<br /> Of noonday visiteth the eyeless man,<br />
+      E'en so was heav'n a niggard unto these<br /> Of his fair light; for,
+      through the orbs of all,<br /> A thread of wire, impiercing, knits them up,<br />
+      As for the taming of a haggard hawk.<br /> <br />It were a wrong, methought,
+      to pass and look<br /> On others, yet myself the while unseen.<br /> To my
+      sage counsel therefore did I turn.<br /> He knew the meaning of the mute
+      appeal,<br /> Nor waited for my questioning, but said:<br /> "Speak; and be
+      brief, be subtle in thy words."<br /> <br />On that part of the cornice,
+      whence no rim<br /> Engarlands its steep fall, did Virgil come;<br /> On
+      the' other side me were the spirits, their cheeks<br /> Bathing devout with
+      penitential tears,<br /> That through the dread impalement forc'd a way.<br />
+      <br />I turn'd me to them, and "O shades!" said I,<br /> <br />"Assur'd that
+      to your eyes unveil'd shall shine<br /> The lofty light, sole object of
+      your wish,<br /> So may heaven's grace clear whatsoe'er of foam<br /> Floats
+      turbid on the conscience, that thenceforth<br /> The stream of mind roll
+      limpid from its source,<br /> As ye declare (for so shall ye impart<br /> A
+      boon I dearly prize) if any soul<br /> Of Latium dwell among ye; and
+      perchance<br /> That soul may profit, if I learn so much."<br /> <br />"My
+      brother, we are each one citizens<br /> Of one true city. &nbsp;Any thou
+      wouldst say,<br /> Who lived a stranger in Italia's land."<br /> <br />So
+      heard I answering, as appeal'd, a voice<br /> That onward came some space
+      from whence I stood.<br /> <br />A spirit I noted, in whose look was mark'd<br />
+      Expectance. &nbsp;Ask ye how? &nbsp;The chin was rais'd<br /> As in one
+      reft of sight. &nbsp;"Spirit," said I,<br /> "Who for thy rise are tutoring
+      (if thou be<br /> That which didst answer to me,) or by place<br /> Or name,
+      disclose thyself, that I may know thee."<br /> <br />"I was," it answer'd,
+      "of Sienna: here<br /> I cleanse away with these the evil life,<br />
+      Soliciting with tears that He, who is,<br /> Vouchsafe him to us. &nbsp;Though
+      Sapia nam'd<br /> In sapience I excell'd not, gladder far<br /> Of others'
+      hurt, than of the good befell me.<br /> That thou mayst own I now deceive
+      thee not,<br /> Hear, if my folly were not as I speak it.<br /> When now my
+      years slop'd waning down the arch,<br /> It so bechanc'd, my fellow
+      citizens<br /> Near Colle met their enemies in the field,<br /> And I pray'd
+      God to grant what He had will'd.<br /> There were they vanquish'd, and
+      betook themselves<br /> Unto the bitter passages of flight.<br /> I mark'd
+      the hunt, and waxing out of bounds<br /> In gladness, lifted up my
+      shameless brow,<br /> And like the merlin cheated by a gleam,<br /> Cried,
+      "It is over. &nbsp;Heav'n! I fear thee not."<br /> Upon my verge of life I
+      wish'd for peace<br /> With God; nor repentance had supplied<br /> What I
+      did lack of duty, were it not<br /> The hermit Piero, touch'd with charity,<br />
+      In his devout orisons thought on me.<br /> "But who art thou that
+      question'st of our state,<br /> Who go'st to my belief, with lids unclos'd,<br />
+      And breathest in thy talk?"--"Mine eyes," said I,<br /> "May yet be here
+      ta'en from me; but not long;<br /> For they have not offended grievously<br />
+      With envious glances. &nbsp;But the woe beneath<br /> Urges my soul with
+      more exceeding dread.<br /> That nether load already weighs me down."<br />
+      <br />She thus: "Who then amongst us here aloft<br /> Hath brought thee, if
+      thou weenest to return?"<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a
+      href="images/13-129.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="13-129th.jpg (49K)" src="images/13-129th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />"He," answer'd I, "who standeth mute beside me.<br />
+      I live: of me ask therefore, chosen spirit,<br /> If thou desire I yonder
+      yet should move<br /> For thee my mortal feet."--"Oh!" she replied,<br />
+      "This is so strange a thing, it is great sign<br /> That God doth love
+      thee. &nbsp;Therefore with thy prayer<br /> Sometime assist me: and by that
+      I crave,<br /> Which most thou covetest, that if thy feet<br /> E'er tread
+      on Tuscan soil, thou save my fame<br /> Amongst my kindred. &nbsp;Them
+      shalt thou behold<br /> With that vain multitude, who set their hope<br />
+      On Telamone's haven, there to fail<br /> Confounded, more shall when the
+      fancied stream<br /> They sought of Dian call'd: but they who lead<br />
+      Their navies, more than ruin'd hopes shall mourn." <br /><br /> <a
+      name="link14" id="link14"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XIV
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> "Say who is he around our mountain winds,<br /> Or ever death has
+      prun'd his wing for flight,<br /> That opes his eyes and covers them at
+      will?"<br /> <br />"I know not who he is, but know thus much<br /> He comes
+      not singly. &nbsp;Do thou ask of him,<br /> For thou art nearer to him, and
+      take heed<br /> Accost him gently, so that he may speak."<br /> <br />Thus on
+      the right two Spirits bending each<br /> Toward the other, talk'd of me,
+      then both<br /> Addressing me, their faces backward lean'd,<br /> And thus
+      the one began: "O soul, who yet<br /> Pent in the body, tendest towards the
+      sky!<br /> For charity, we pray thee' comfort us,<br /> Recounting whence
+      thou com'st, and who thou art:<br /> For thou dost make us at the favour
+      shown thee<br /> Marvel, as at a thing that ne'er hath been."<br /> <br />"There
+      stretches through the midst of Tuscany,"<br /> I straight began: "a
+      brooklet, whose well-head<br /> Springs up in Falterona, with his race<br />
+      Not satisfied, when he some hundred miles<br /> Hath measur'd. &nbsp;From
+      his banks bring, I this frame.<br /> To tell you who I am were words
+      misspent:<br /> For yet my name scarce sounds on rumour's lip."<br /> <br />"If
+      well I do incorp'rate with my thought<br /> The meaning of thy speech,"
+      said he, who first<br /> Addrest me, "thou dost speak of Arno's wave."<br />
+      <br />To whom the other: "Why hath he conceal'd<br /> The title of that
+      river, as a man<br /> Doth of some horrible thing?" &nbsp;The spirit, who<br />
+      Thereof was question'd, did acquit him thus:<br /> "I know not: but 'tis
+      fitting well the name<br /> Should perish of that vale; for from the source<br />
+      Where teems so plenteously the Alpine steep<br /> Maim'd of Pelorus, (that
+      doth scarcely pass<br /> Beyond that limit,) even to the point<br />
+      Whereunto ocean is restor'd, what heaven<br /> Drains from th' exhaustless
+      store for all earth's streams,<br /> Throughout the space is virtue worried
+      down,<br /> As 'twere a snake, by all, for mortal foe,<br /> Or through
+      disastrous influence on the place,<br /> Or else distortion of misguided
+      wills,<br /> That custom goads to evil: whence in those,<br /> The dwellers
+      in that miserable vale,<br /> Nature is so transform'd, it seems as they<br />
+      Had shar'd of Circe's feeding. &nbsp;'Midst brute swine,<br /> Worthier of
+      acorns than of other food<br /> Created for man's use, he shapeth first<br />
+      His obscure way; then, sloping onward, finds<br /> Curs, snarlers more in
+      spite than power, from whom<br /> He turns with scorn aside: still
+      journeying down,<br /> By how much more the curst and luckless foss<br />
+      Swells out to largeness, e'en so much it finds<br /> Dogs turning into
+      wolves. &nbsp;Descending still<br /> Through yet more hollow eddies, next
+      he meets<br /> A race of foxes, so replete with craft,<br /> They do not
+      fear that skill can master it.<br /> Nor will I cease because my words are
+      heard<br /> By other ears than thine. &nbsp;It shall be well<br /> For this
+      man, if he keep in memory<br /> What from no erring Spirit I reveal.<br />
+      Lo! &nbsp;I behold thy grandson, that becomes<br /> A hunter of those
+      wolves, upon the shore<br /> Of the fierce stream, and cows them all with
+      dread:<br /> Their flesh yet living sets he up to sale,<br /> Then like an
+      aged beast to slaughter dooms.<br /> Many of life he reaves, himself of
+      worth<br /> And goodly estimation. &nbsp;Smear'd with gore<br /> Mark how he
+      issues from the rueful wood,<br /> Leaving such havoc, that in thousand
+      years<br /> It spreads not to prime lustihood again."<br /> <br />As one, who
+      tidings hears of woe to come,<br /> Changes his looks perturb'd, from
+      whate'er part<br /> The peril grasp him, so beheld I change<br /> That
+      spirit, who had turn'd to listen, struck<br /> With sadness, soon as he had
+      caught the word.<br /> <br />His visage and the other's speech did raise<br />
+      Desire in me to know the names of both,<br /> whereof with meek entreaty I
+      inquir'd.<br /> <br />The shade, who late addrest me, thus resum'd:<br />
+      "Thy wish imports that I vouchsafe to do<br /> For thy sake what thou wilt
+      not do for mine.<br /> But since God's will is that so largely shine<br />
+      His grace in thee, I will be liberal too.<br /> Guido of Duca know then
+      that I am.<br /> Envy so parch'd my blood, that had I seen<br /> A fellow
+      man made joyous, thou hadst mark'd<br /> A livid paleness overspread my
+      cheek.<br /> Such harvest reap I of the seed I sow'd.<br /> O man, why place
+      thy heart where there doth need<br /> Exclusion of participants in good?<br />
+      This is Rinieri's spirit, this the boast<br /> And honour of the house of
+      Calboli,<br /> Where of his worth no heritage remains.<br /> Nor his the
+      only blood, that hath been stript<br /> ('twixt Po, the mount, the Reno,
+      and the shore,)<br /> Of all that truth or fancy asks for bliss;<br /> But
+      in those limits such a growth has sprung<br /> Of rank and venom'd roots,
+      as long would mock<br /> Slow culture's toil. &nbsp;Where is good Lizio?
+      &nbsp;where<br /> Manardi, Traversalo, and Carpigna?<br /> O bastard slips
+      of old Romagna's line!<br /> When in Bologna the low artisan,<br /> And in
+      Faenza yon Bernardin sprouts,<br /> A gentle cyon from ignoble stem.<br />
+      Wonder not, Tuscan, if thou see me weep,<br /> When I recall to mind those
+      once lov'd names,<br /> Guido of Prata, and of Azzo him<br /> That dwelt
+      with you; Tignoso and his troop,<br /> With Traversaro's house and
+      Anastagio's,<br /> (Each race disherited) and beside these,<br /> The ladies
+      and the knights, the toils and ease,<br /> That witch'd us into love and
+      courtesy;<br /> Where now such malice reigns in recreant hearts.<br /> O
+      Brettinoro! &nbsp;wherefore tarriest still,<br /> Since forth of thee thy
+      family hath gone,<br /> And many, hating evil, join'd their steps?<br />
+      Well doeth he, that bids his lineage cease,<br /> Bagnacavallo; Castracaro
+      ill,<br /> And Conio worse, who care to propagate<br /> A race of Counties
+      from such blood as theirs.<br /> Well shall ye also do, Pagani, then<br />
+      When from amongst you tries your demon child.<br /> Not so, howe'er, that
+      henceforth there remain<br /> True proof of what ye were. &nbsp;O Hugolin!<br />
+      Thou sprung of Fantolini's line! &nbsp;thy name<br /> Is safe, since none
+      is look'd for after thee<br /> To cloud its lustre, warping from thy stock.<br />
+      But, Tuscan, go thy ways; for now I take<br /> Far more delight in weeping
+      than in words.<br /> Such pity for your sakes hath wrung my heart."<br />
+      <br />We knew those gentle spirits at parting heard<br /> Our steps. &nbsp;Their
+      silence therefore of our way<br /> Assur'd us. &nbsp;Soon as we had quitted
+      them,<br /> Advancing onward, lo! &nbsp;a voice that seem'd<br /> Like
+      vollied light'ning, when it rives the air,<br /> Met us, and shouted,
+      "Whosoever finds<br /> Will slay me," then fled from us, as the bolt<br />
+      Lanc'd sudden from a downward-rushing cloud.<br /> When it had giv'n short
+      truce unto our hearing,<br /> Behold the other with a crash as loud<br /> As
+      the quick-following thunder: "Mark in me<br /> Aglauros turn'd to rock."
+      &nbsp;I at the sound<br /> Retreating drew more closely to my guide.<br />
+      <br />Now in mute stillness rested all the air:<br /> And thus he spake:
+      "There was the galling bit.<br /> But your old enemy so baits his hook,<br />
+      He drags you eager to him. &nbsp;Hence nor curb<br /> Avails you, nor
+      reclaiming call. &nbsp;Heav'n calls<br /> And round about you wheeling
+      courts your gaze<br /> With everlasting beauties. &nbsp;Yet your eye<br />
+      Turns with fond doting still upon the earth.<br /> Therefore He smites you
+      who discerneth all." <br /><br /> <a name="link15" id="link15"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XV
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> As much as 'twixt the third hour's close and dawn,<br /> Appeareth of
+      heav'n's sphere, that ever whirls<br /> As restless as an infant in his
+      play,<br /> So much appear'd remaining to the sun<br /> Of his slope journey
+      towards the western goal.<br /> <br />Evening was there, and here the noon
+      of night;<br /> and full upon our forehead smote the beams.<br /> For &nbsp;round
+      the mountain, circling, so our path<br /> Had led us, that toward the
+      sun-set now<br /> Direct we journey'd: when I felt a weight<br /> Of more
+      exceeding splendour, than before,<br /> Press on my front. &nbsp;The cause
+      unknown, amaze<br /> Possess'd me, and both hands against my brow<br />
+      Lifting, I interpos'd them, as a screen,<br /> That of its gorgeous
+      superflux of light<br /> Clipp'd the diminish'd orb. As when the ray,<br />
+      Striking On water or the surface clear<br /> Of mirror, leaps unto the
+      opposite part,<br /> Ascending at a glance, e'en as it fell,<br /> (And so
+      much differs from the stone, that falls)<br /> Through equal space, as
+      practice skill hath shown;<br /> Thus with refracted light before me seemed<br />
+      The ground there smitten; whence in sudden haste<br /> My sight recoil'd.
+      &nbsp;"What is this, sire belov'd!<br /> 'Gainst which I strive to shield
+      the sight in vain?"<br /> Cried I, "and which towards us moving seems?"<br />
+      <br />"Marvel not, if the family of heav'n,"<br /> He answer'd, "yet with
+      dazzling radiance dim<br /> Thy sense it is a messenger who comes,<br />
+      Inviting man's ascent. &nbsp;Such sights ere long,<br /> Not grievous,
+      shall impart to thee delight,<br /> As thy perception is by nature wrought<br />
+      Up to their pitch." &nbsp;The blessed angel, soon<br /> As we had reach'd
+      him, hail'd us with glad voice:<br /> "Here enter on a ladder far less
+      steep<br /> Than ye have yet encounter'd." &nbsp;We forthwith<br />
+      Ascending, heard behind us chanted sweet,<br /> "Blessed the merciful," and
+      "happy thou!<br /> That conquer'st." &nbsp;Lonely each, my guide and I<br />
+      Pursued our upward way; and as we went,<br /> Some profit from his words I
+      hop'd to win,<br /> And thus of him inquiring, fram'd my speech:<br /> <br />"What
+      meant Romagna's spirit, when he spake<br /> Of bliss exclusive with no
+      partner shar'd?"<br /> <br />He straight replied: "No wonder, since he
+      knows,<br /> What sorrow waits on his own worst defect,<br /> If he chide
+      others, that they less may mourn.<br /> Because ye point your wishes at a
+      mark,<br /> Where, by communion of possessors, part<br /> Is lessen'd, envy
+      bloweth up the sighs of men.<br /> No fear of that might touch ye, if the
+      love<br /> Of higher sphere exalted your desire.<br /> For there, by how
+      much more they call it ours,<br /> So much propriety of each in good<br />
+      Increases more, and heighten'd charity<br /> Wraps that fair cloister in a
+      brighter flame."<br /> <br />"Now lack I satisfaction more," said I,<br />
+      "Than if thou hadst been silent at the first,<br /> And doubt more gathers
+      on my lab'ring thought.<br /> How can it chance, that good distributed,<br />
+      The many, that possess it, makes more rich,<br /> Than if 't were shar'd by
+      few?" &nbsp;He answering thus:<br /> "Thy mind, reverting still to things
+      of earth,<br /> Strikes darkness from true light. &nbsp;The highest good<br />
+      Unlimited, ineffable, doth so speed<br /> To love, as beam to lucid body
+      darts,<br /> Giving as much of ardour as it finds.<br /> The sempiternal
+      effluence streams abroad<br /> Spreading, wherever charity extends.<br /> So
+      that the more aspirants to that bliss<br /> Are multiplied, more good is
+      there to love,<br /> And more is lov'd; as mirrors, that reflect,<br /> Each
+      unto other, propagated light.<br /> If these my words avail not to allay<br />
+      Thy thirsting, Beatrice thou shalt see,<br /> Who of this want, and of all
+      else thou hast,<br /> Shall rid thee to the full. &nbsp;Provide but thou<br />
+      That from thy temples may be soon eras'd,<br /> E'en as the two already,
+      those five scars,<br /> That when they pain thee worst, then kindliest
+      heal,"<br /> <br />"Thou," I had said, "content'st me," when I saw<br /> The
+      other round was gain'd, and wond'ring eyes<br /> Did keep me mute. &nbsp;There
+      suddenly I seem'd<br /> By an ecstatic vision wrapt away;<br /> And in a
+      temple saw, methought, a crowd<br /> Of many persons; and at th' entrance
+      stood<br /> A dame, whose sweet demeanour did express<br /> A mother's love,
+      who said, "Child! &nbsp;why hast thou<br /> Dealt with us thus? &nbsp;Behold
+      thy sire and I<br /> Sorrowing have sought thee;" and so held her peace,<br />
+      And straight the vision fled. &nbsp;A female next<br /> Appear'd before me,
+      down whose visage cours'd<br /> Those waters, that grief forces out from
+      one<br /> By deep resentment stung, who seem'd to say:<br /> "If thou,
+      Pisistratus, be lord indeed<br /> Over this city, nam'd with such debate<br />
+      Of adverse gods, and whence each science sparkles,<br /> Avenge thee of
+      those arms, whose bold embrace<br /> Hath clasp'd our daughter; "and to
+      fuel, meseem'd,<br /> Benign and meek, with visage undisturb'd,<br /> Her
+      sovran spake: "How shall we those requite,<br /> Who wish us evil, if we
+      thus condemn<br /> The man that loves us?" &nbsp;After that I saw<br /> A
+      multitude, in fury burning, slay<br /> With stones a stripling youth, and
+      shout amain<br /> "Destroy, destroy!" and him I saw, who bow'd<br /> Heavy
+      with death unto the ground, yet made<br /> His eyes, unfolded upward, gates
+      to heav'n,<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/15-103.jpg">ENLARGE
+      TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="15-103th.jpg (38K)" src="images/15-103th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> Praying forgiveness of th' Almighty Sire,<br /> Amidst
+      that cruel conflict, on his foes,<br /> With looks, that With compassion to
+      their aim.<br /> <br />Soon as my spirit, from her airy flight<br />
+      Returning, sought again the things, whose truth<br /> Depends not on her
+      shaping, I observ'd<br /> How she had rov'd to no unreal scenes<br /> <br />Meanwhile
+      the leader, who might see I mov'd,<br /> As one, who struggles to shake off
+      his sleep,<br /> Exclaim'd: "What ails thee, that thou canst not hold<br />
+      Thy footing firm, but more than half a league<br /> Hast travel'd with
+      clos'd eyes and tott'ring gait,<br /> Like to a man by wine or sleep
+      o'ercharg'd?"<br /> <br />"Beloved father! &nbsp;so thou deign," said I,<br />
+      "To listen, I will tell thee what appear'd<br /> Before me, when so fail'd
+      my sinking steps."<br /> <br />He thus: "Not if thy Countenance were mask'd<br />
+      With hundred vizards, could a thought of thine<br /> How small soe'er,
+      elude me. &nbsp;What thou saw'st<br /> Was shown, that freely thou mightst
+      ope thy heart<br /> To the waters of peace, that flow diffus'd<br /> From
+      their eternal fountain. &nbsp;I not ask'd,<br /> What ails thee? &nbsp;for
+      such cause as he doth, who<br /> Looks only with that eye which sees no
+      more,<br /> When spiritless the body lies; but ask'd,<br /> To give fresh
+      vigour to thy foot. &nbsp;Such goads<br /> The slow and loit'ring need;
+      that they be found<br /> Not wanting, when their hour of watch returns."<br />
+      <br />So on we journey'd through the evening sky<br /> Gazing intent, far
+      onward, as our eyes<br /> With level view could stretch against the bright<br />
+      Vespertine ray: and lo! &nbsp;by slow degrees<br /> Gath'ring, a fog made
+      tow'rds us, dark as night.<br /> There was no room for 'scaping; and that
+      mist<br /> Bereft us, both of sight and the pure air. <br /><br /> <a
+      name="link16" id="link16"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XVI
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Hell's dunnest gloom, or night unlustrous, dark,<br /> Of every
+      planes 'reft, and pall'd in clouds,<br /> Did never spread before the sight
+      a veil<br /> In thickness like that fog, nor to the sense<br /> So palpable
+      and gross. &nbsp;Ent'ring its shade,<br /> Mine eye endured not with
+      unclosed lids;<br /> Which marking, near me drew the faithful guide,<br />
+      Offering me his shoulder for a stay.<br /> <br />As the blind man behind his
+      leader walks,<br /> Lest he should err, or stumble unawares<br /> On what
+      might harm him, or perhaps destroy,<br /> I journey'd through that bitter
+      air and foul,<br /> Still list'ning to my escort's warning voice,<br />
+      "Look that from me thou part not." &nbsp;Straight I heard<br /> Voices, and
+      each one seem'd to pray for peace,<br /> And for compassion, to the Lamb of
+      God<br /> That taketh sins away. &nbsp;Their prelude still<br /> Was "Agnus
+      Dei," and through all the choir,<br /> One voice, one measure ran, that
+      perfect seem'd<br /> The concord of their song. &nbsp;"Are these I hear<br />
+      Spirits, O master?" &nbsp;I exclaim'd; and he:<br /> "Thou aim'st aright:
+      these loose the bonds of wrath."<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a
+      href="images/16-23.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="16-23th.jpg (42K)" src="images/16-23th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />"Now who art thou, that through our smoke dost
+      cleave?<br /> And speak'st of us, as thou thyself e'en yet<br /> Dividest
+      time by calends?" &nbsp;So one voice<br /> Bespake me; whence my master
+      said: "Reply;<br /> And ask, if upward hence the passage lead."<br /> <br />"O
+      being! &nbsp;who dost make thee pure, to stand<br /> Beautiful once more in
+      thy Maker's sight!<br /> Along with me: and thou shalt hear and wonder."<br />
+      Thus I, whereto the spirit answering spake:<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a
+      href="images/16-32.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="16-32th.jpg (37K)" src="images/16-32th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> "Long as 't is lawful for me, shall my steps<br />
+      Follow on thine; and since the cloudy smoke<br /> Forbids the seeing,
+      hearing in its stead<br /> Shall keep us join'd." &nbsp;I then forthwith
+      began<br /> "Yet in my mortal swathing, I ascend<br /> To higher regions,
+      and am hither come<br /> Through the fearful agony of hell.<br /> And, if so
+      largely God hath doled his grace,<br /> That, clean beside all modern
+      precedent,<br /> He wills me to behold his kingly state,<br /> From me
+      conceal not who thou wast, ere death<br /> Had loos'd thee; but instruct
+      me: and instruct<br /> If rightly to the pass I tend; thy words<br /> The
+      way directing as a safe escort."<br /> <br />"I was of Lombardy, and Marco
+      call'd:<br /> Not inexperienc'd of the world, that worth<br /> I still
+      affected, from which all have turn'd<br /> The nerveless bow aside. &nbsp;Thy
+      course tends right<br /> Unto the summit:" and, replying thus,<br /> He
+      added, "I beseech thee pray for me,<br /> When thou shalt come aloft."
+      &nbsp;And I to him:<br /> "Accept my faith for pledge I will perform<br />
+      What thou requirest. &nbsp;Yet one doubt remains,<br /> That wrings me
+      sorely, if I solve it not,<br /> Singly before it urg'd me, doubled now<br />
+      By thine opinion, when I couple that<br /> With one elsewhere declar'd,
+      each strength'ning other.<br /> The world indeed is even so forlorn<br /> Of
+      all good as thou speak'st it and so swarms<br /> With every evil. &nbsp;Yet,
+      beseech thee, point<br /> The cause out to me, that myself may see,<br />
+      And unto others show it: for in heaven<br /> One places it, and one on
+      earth below."<br /> <br />Then heaving forth a deep and audible sigh,<br />
+      "Brother!" he thus began, "the world is blind;<br /> And thou in truth
+      com'st from it. &nbsp;Ye, who live,<br /> Do so each cause refer to heav'n
+      above,<br /> E'en as its motion of necessity<br /> Drew with it all that
+      moves. &nbsp;If this were so,<br /> Free choice in you were none; nor
+      justice would<br /> There should be joy for virtue, woe for ill.<br /> Your
+      movements have their primal bent from heaven;<br /> Not all; yet said I
+      all; what then ensues?<br /> Light have ye still to follow evil or good,<br />
+      And of the will free power, which, if it stand<br /> Firm and unwearied in
+      Heav'n's first assay,<br /> Conquers at last, so it be cherish'd well,<br />
+      Triumphant over all. &nbsp;To mightier force,<br /> To better nature
+      subject, ye abide<br /> Free, not constrain'd by that, which forms in you<br />
+      The reasoning mind uninfluenc'd of the stars.<br /> If then the present
+      race of mankind err,<br /> Seek in yourselves the cause, and find it there.<br />
+      Herein thou shalt confess me no false spy.<br /> <br />"Forth from his
+      plastic hand, who charm'd beholds<br /> Her image ere she yet exist, the
+      soul<br /> Comes like a babe, that wantons sportively<br /> Weeping and
+      laughing in its wayward moods,<br /> As artless and as ignorant of aught,<br />
+      Save that her Maker being one who dwells<br /> With gladness ever,
+      willingly she turns<br /> To whate'er yields her joy. &nbsp;Of some slight
+      good<br /> The flavour soon she tastes; and, snar'd by that,<br /> With
+      fondness she pursues it, if no guide<br /> Recall, no rein direct her
+      wand'ring course.<br /> Hence it behov'd, the law should be a curb;<br /> A
+      sovereign hence behov'd, whose piercing view<br /> Might mark at least the
+      fortress and main tower<br /> Of the true city. &nbsp;Laws indeed there
+      are:<br /> But who is he observes them? &nbsp;None; not he,<br /> Who goes
+      before, the shepherd of the flock,<br /> Who chews the cud but doth not
+      cleave the hoof.<br /> Therefore the multitude, who see their guide<br />
+      Strike at the very good they covet most,<br /> Feed there and look no
+      further. &nbsp;Thus the cause<br /> Is not corrupted nature in yourselves,<br />
+      But ill-conducting, that hath turn'd the world<br /> To evil. &nbsp;Rome,
+      that turn'd it unto good,<br /> Was wont to boast two suns, whose several
+      beams<br /> Cast light on either way, the world's and God's.<br /> One since
+      hath quench'd the other; and the sword<br /> Is grafted on the crook; and
+      so conjoin'd<br /> Each must perforce decline to worse, unaw'd<br /> By fear
+      of other. &nbsp;If thou doubt me, mark<br /> The blade: each herb is judg'd
+      of by its seed.<br /> That land, through which Adice and the Po<br /> Their
+      waters roll, was once the residence<br /> Of courtesy and velour, ere the
+      day,<br /> That frown'd on Frederick; now secure may pass<br /> Those
+      limits, whosoe'er hath left, for shame,<br /> To talk with good men, or
+      come near their haunts.<br /> Three aged ones are still found there, in
+      whom<br /> The old time chides the new: these deem it long<br /> Ere God
+      restore them to a better world:<br /> The good Gherardo, of Palazzo he<br />
+      Conrad, and Guido of Castello, nam'd<br /> In Gallic phrase more fitly the
+      plain Lombard.<br /> On this at last conclude. &nbsp;The church of Rome,<br />
+      Mixing two governments that ill assort,<br /> Hath miss'd her footing,
+      fall'n into the mire,<br /> And there herself and burden much defil'd."<br />
+      <br />"O Marco!" I replied, shine arguments<br /> Convince me: and the cause
+      I now discern<br /> Why of the heritage no portion came<br /> To Levi's
+      offspring. &nbsp;But resolve me this<br /> Who that Gherardo is, that as
+      thou sayst<br /> Is left a sample of the perish'd race,<br /> And for rebuke
+      to this untoward age?"<br /> <br />"Either thy words," said he, "deceive; or
+      else<br /> Are meant to try me; that thou, speaking Tuscan,<br /> Appear'st
+      not to have heard of good Gherado;<br /> The sole addition that, by which I
+      know him;<br /> Unless I borrow'd from his daughter Gaia<br /> Another name
+      to grace him. &nbsp;God be with you.<br /> I bear you company no more.
+      &nbsp;Behold<br /> The dawn with white ray glimm'ring through the mist.<br />
+      I must away--the angel comes--ere he<br /> Appear." &nbsp;He said, and
+      would not hear me more. <br /><br /> <a name="link17" id="link17"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XVII
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Call to remembrance, reader, if thou e'er<br /> Hast, on a mountain
+      top, been ta'en by cloud,<br /> Through which thou saw'st no better, than
+      the mole<br /> Doth through opacous membrane; then, whene'er<br /> The
+      wat'ry vapours dense began to melt<br /> Into thin air, how faintly the
+      sun's sphere<br /> Seem'd wading through them; so thy nimble thought<br />
+      May image, how at first I re-beheld<br /> The sun, that bedward now his
+      couch o'erhung.<br /> <br />Thus with my leader's feet still equaling pace<br />
+      From forth that cloud I came, when now expir'd<br /> The parting beams from
+      off the nether shores.<br /> <br />O quick and forgetive power! &nbsp;that
+      sometimes dost<br /> So rob us of ourselves, we take no mark<br /> Though
+      round about us thousand trumpets clang!<br /> What moves thee, if the
+      senses stir not? &nbsp;Light<br /> Kindled in heav'n, spontaneous,
+      self-inform'd,<br /> Or likelier gliding down with swift illapse<br /> By
+      will divine. &nbsp;Portray'd before me came<br /> The traces of her dire
+      impiety,<br /> Whose form was chang'd into the bird, that most<br />
+      Delights itself in song: and here my mind<br /> Was inwardly so wrapt, it
+      gave no place<br /> To aught that ask'd admittance from without.<br /> <br />Next
+      shower'd into my fantasy a shape<br /> As of one crucified, whose visage
+      spake<br /> Fell rancour, malice deep, wherein he died;<br /> And round him
+      Ahasuerus the great king,<br /> Esther his bride, and Mordecai the just,<br />
+      Blameless in word and deed. &nbsp;As of itself<br /> That unsubstantial
+      coinage of the brain<br /> Burst, like a bubble, Which the water fails<br />
+      That fed it; in my vision straight uprose<br /> A damsel weeping loud, and
+      cried, "O queen!<br /> O mother! &nbsp;wherefore has intemperate ire<br />
+      Driv'n thee to loath thy being? &nbsp;Not to lose<br /> Lavinia, desp'rate
+      thou hast slain thyself.<br /> Now hast thou lost me. &nbsp;I am she, whose
+      tears<br /> Mourn, ere I fall, a mother's timeless end."<br /> <br />E'en as
+      a sleep breaks off, if suddenly<br /> New radiance strike upon the closed
+      lids,<br /> The broken slumber quivering ere it dies;<br /> Thus from before
+      me sunk that imagery<br /> Vanishing, soon as on my face there struck<br />
+      The light, outshining far our earthly beam.<br /> As round I turn'd me to
+      survey what place<br /> I had arriv'd at, "Here ye mount," exclaim'd<br /> A
+      voice, that other purpose left me none,<br /> Save will so eager to behold
+      who spake,<br /> I could not choose but gaze. &nbsp;As 'fore the sun,<br />
+      That weighs our vision down, and veils his form<br /> In light
+      transcendent, thus my virtue fail'd<br /> Unequal. &nbsp;"This is Spirit
+      from above,<br /> Who marshals us our upward way, unsought;<br /> And in his
+      own light shrouds him. As a man<br /> Doth for himself, so now is done for
+      us.<br /> For whoso waits imploring, yet sees need<br /> Of his prompt
+      aidance, sets himself prepar'd<br /> For blunt denial, ere the suit be
+      made.<br /> Refuse we not to lend a ready foot<br /> At such inviting: haste
+      we to ascend,<br /> Before it darken: for we may not then,<br /> Till morn
+      again return." &nbsp;So spake my guide;<br /> And to one ladder both
+      address'd our steps;<br /> And the first stair approaching, I perceiv'd<br />
+      Near me as 'twere the waving of a wing,<br /> That fann'd my face and
+      whisper'd: "Blessed they<br /> The peacemakers: they know not evil wrath."<br />
+      <br />Now to such height above our heads were rais'd<br /> The last beams,
+      follow'd close by hooded night,<br /> That many a star on all sides through
+      the gloom<br /> Shone out. &nbsp;"Why partest from me, O my strength?"<br />
+      So with myself I commun'd; for I felt<br /> My o'ertoil'd sinews slacken.
+      &nbsp;We had reach'd<br /> The summit, and were fix'd like to a bark<br />
+      Arriv'd at land. &nbsp;And waiting a short space,<br /> If aught should
+      meet mine ear in that new round,<br /> Then to my guide I turn'd, and said:
+      "Lov'd sire!<br /> Declare what guilt is on this circle purg'd.<br /> If our
+      feet rest, no need thy speech should pause."<br /> <br />He thus to me: "The
+      love of good, whate'er<br /> Wanted of just proportion, here fulfils.<br />
+      Here plies afresh the oar, that loiter'd ill.<br /> But that thou mayst yet
+      clearlier understand,<br /> Give ear unto my words, and thou shalt cull<br />
+      Some fruit may please thee well, from this delay.<br /> <br />"Creator, nor
+      created being, ne'er,<br /> My son," he thus began, "was without love,<br />
+      Or natural, or the free spirit's growth.<br /> Thou hast not that to learn.
+      &nbsp;The natural still<br /> Is without error; but the other swerves,<br />
+      If on ill object bent, or through excess<br /> Of vigour, or defect. &nbsp;While
+      e'er it seeks<br /> The primal blessings, or with measure due<br /> Th'
+      inferior, no delight, that flows from it,<br /> Partakes of ill. &nbsp;But
+      let it warp to evil,<br /> Or with more ardour than behooves, or less.<br />
+      Pursue the good, the thing created then<br /> Works 'gainst its Maker.
+      &nbsp;Hence thou must infer<br /> That love is germin of each virtue in ye,<br />
+      And of each act no less, that merits pain.<br /> Now since it may not be,
+      but love intend<br /> The welfare mainly of the thing it loves,<br /> All
+      from self-hatred are secure; and since<br /> No being can be thought t'
+      exist apart<br /> And independent of the first, a bar<br /> Of equal force
+      restrains from hating that.<br /> <br />"Grant the distinction just; and it
+      remains<br /> The' evil must be another's, which is lov'd.<br /> Three ways
+      such love is gender'd in your clay.<br /> There is who hopes (his
+      neighbour's worth deprest,)<br /> Preeminence himself, and coverts hence<br />
+      For his own greatness that another fall.<br /> There is who so much fears
+      the loss of power,<br /> Fame, favour, glory (should his fellow mount<br />
+      Above him), and so sickens at the thought,<br /> He loves their opposite:
+      and there is he,<br /> Whom wrong or insult seems to gall and shame<br />
+      That he doth thirst for vengeance, and such needs<br /> Must doat on
+      other's evil. &nbsp;Here beneath<br /> This threefold love is mourn'd.
+      &nbsp;Of th' other sort<br /> Be now instructed, that which follows good<br />
+      But with disorder'd and irregular course.<br /> <br />"All indistinctly
+      apprehend a bliss<br /> On which the soul may rest, the hearts of all<br />
+      Yearn after it, and to that wished bourn<br /> All therefore strive to
+      tend. &nbsp;If ye behold<br /> Or seek it with a love remiss and lax,<br />
+      This cornice after just repenting lays<br /> Its penal torment on ye.
+      &nbsp;Other good<br /> There is, where man finds not his happiness:<br /> It
+      is not true fruition, not that blest<br /> Essence, of every good the
+      branch and root.<br /> The love too lavishly bestow'd on this,<br /> Along
+      three circles over us, is mourn'd.<br /> Account of that division
+      tripartite<br /> Expect not, fitter for thine own research." <br /><br />
+      <a name="link18" id="link18"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XVIII
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> The teacher ended, and his high discourse<br /> Concluding, earnest
+      in my looks inquir'd<br /> If I appear'd content; and I, whom still<br />
+      Unsated thirst to hear him urg'd, was mute,<br /> Mute outwardly, yet
+      inwardly I said:<br /> "Perchance my too much questioning offends."<br />
+      But he, true father, mark'd the secret wish<br /> By diffidence restrain'd,
+      and speaking, gave<br /> Me boldness thus to speak: "Master, my Sight<br />
+      Gathers so lively virtue from thy beams,<br /> That all, thy words convey,
+      distinct is seen.<br /> Wherefore I pray thee, father, whom this heart<br />
+      Holds dearest! &nbsp;thou wouldst deign by proof t' unfold<br /> That love,
+      from which as from their source thou bring'st<br /> All good deeds and
+      their opposite." &nbsp;He then:<br /> "To what I now disclose be thy clear
+      ken<br /> Directed, and thou plainly shalt behold<br /> How much those blind
+      have err'd, who make themselves<br /> The guides of men. &nbsp;The soul,
+      created apt<br /> To love, moves versatile which way soe'er<br /> Aught
+      pleasing prompts her, soon as she is wak'd<br /> By pleasure into act.
+      &nbsp;Of substance true<br /> Your apprehension forms its counterfeit,<br />
+      And in you the ideal shape presenting<br /> Attracts the soul's regard.
+      &nbsp;If she, thus drawn,<br /> incline toward it, love is that inclining,<br />
+      And a new nature knit by pleasure in ye.<br /> Then as the fire points up,
+      and mounting seeks<br /> His birth-place and his lasting seat, e'en thus<br />
+      Enters the captive soul into desire,<br /> Which is a spiritual motion,
+      that ne'er rests<br /> Before enjoyment of the thing it loves.<br /> Enough
+      to show thee, how the truth from those<br /> Is hidden, who aver all love a
+      thing<br /> Praise-worthy in itself: although perhaps<br /> Its substance
+      seem still good. &nbsp;Yet if the wax<br /> Be good, it follows not th'
+      impression must."<br /> "What love is," I return'd, "thy words, O guide!<br />
+      And my own docile mind, reveal. &nbsp;Yet thence<br /> New doubts have
+      sprung. &nbsp;For from without if love<br /> Be offer'd to us, and the
+      spirit knows<br /> No other footing, tend she right or wrong,<br /> Is no
+      desert of hers." &nbsp;He answering thus:<br /> "What reason here discovers
+      I have power<br /> To show thee: that which lies beyond, expect<br /> From
+      Beatrice, faith not reason's task.<br /> Spirit, substantial form, with
+      matter join'd<br /> Not in confusion mix'd, hath in itself<br /> Specific
+      virtue of that union born,<br /> Which is not felt except it work, nor
+      prov'd<br /> But through effect, as vegetable life<br /> By the green leaf.
+      &nbsp;From whence his intellect<br /> Deduced its primal notices of things,<br />
+      Man therefore knows not, or his appetites<br /> Their first affections;
+      such in you, as zeal<br /> In bees to gather honey; at the first,<br />
+      Volition, meriting nor blame nor praise.<br /> But o'er each lower faculty
+      supreme,<br /> That as she list are summon'd to her bar,<br /> Ye have that
+      virtue in you, whose just voice<br /> Uttereth counsel, and whose word
+      should keep<br /> The threshold of assent. &nbsp;Here is the source,<br />
+      Whence cause of merit in you is deriv'd,<br /> E'en as the affections good
+      or ill she takes,<br /> Or severs, winnow'd as the chaff. &nbsp;Those men<br />
+      Who reas'ning went to depth profoundest, mark'd<br /> That innate freedom,
+      and were thence induc'd<br /> To leave their moral teaching to the world.<br />
+      Grant then, that from necessity arise<br /> All love that glows within you;
+      to dismiss<br /> Or harbour it, the pow'r is in yourselves.<br /> Remember,
+      Beatrice, in her style,<br /> Denominates free choice by eminence<br /> The
+      noble virtue, if in talk with thee<br /> She touch upon that theme." &nbsp;The
+      moon, well nigh<br /> To midnight hour belated, made the stars<br /> Appear
+      to wink and fade; and her broad disk<br /> Seem'd like a crag on fire, as
+      up the vault<br /> That course she journey'd, which the sun then warms,<br />
+      When they of Rome behold him at his set.<br /> Betwixt Sardinia and the
+      Corsic isle.<br /> And now the weight, that hung upon my thought,<br /> Was
+      lighten'd by the aid of that clear spirit,<br /> Who raiseth Andes above
+      Mantua's name.<br /> I therefore, when my questions had obtain'd<br />
+      Solution plain and ample, stood as one<br /> Musing in dreary slumber; but
+      not long<br /> Slumber'd; for suddenly a multitude,<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/18-87.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="18-87th.jpg (39K)" src="images/18-87th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> The steep already turning, from behind,<br /> Rush'd
+      on. &nbsp;With fury and like random rout,<br /> As echoing on their shores
+      at midnight heard<br /> Ismenus and Asopus, for his Thebes<br /> If Bacchus'
+      help were needed; so came these<br /> Tumultuous, curving each his rapid
+      step,<br /> By eagerness impell'd of holy love.<br /> <br />Soon they
+      o'ertook us; with such swiftness mov'd<br /> The mighty crowd. &nbsp;Two
+      spirits at their head<br /> Cried weeping; "Blessed Mary sought with haste<br />
+      The hilly region. &nbsp;Caesar to subdue<br /> Ilerda, darted in Marseilles
+      his sting,<br /> And flew to Spain."--"Oh tarry not: away;"<br /> The others
+      shouted; "let not time be lost<br /> Through slackness of affection. &nbsp;Hearty
+      zeal<br /> To serve reanimates celestial grace."<br /> <br />"O ye, in whom
+      intenser fervency<br /> Haply supplies, where lukewarm erst ye fail'd,<br />
+      Slow or neglectful, to absolve your part<br /> Of good and virtuous, this
+      man, who yet lives,<br /> (Credit my tale, though strange) desires t'
+      ascend,<br /> So morning rise to light us. &nbsp;Therefore say<br /> Which
+      hand leads nearest to the rifted rock?"<br /> <br />So spake my guide, to
+      whom a shade return'd:<br /> "Come after us, and thou shalt find the cleft.<br />
+      We may not linger: such resistless will<br /> Speeds our unwearied course.
+      &nbsp;Vouchsafe us then<br /> Thy pardon, if our duty seem to thee<br />
+      Discourteous rudeness. &nbsp;In Verona I<br /> Was abbot of San Zeno, when
+      the hand<br /> Of Barbarossa grasp'd Imperial sway,<br /> That name, ne'er
+      utter'd without tears in Milan.<br /> And there is he, hath one foot in his
+      grave,<br /> Who for that monastery ere long shall weep,<br /> Ruing his
+      power misus'd: for that his son,<br /> Of body ill compact, and worse in
+      mind,<br /> And born in evil, he hath set in place<br /> Of its true
+      pastor." &nbsp;Whether more he spake,<br /> Or here was mute, I know not:
+      he had sped<br /> E'en now so far beyond us. &nbsp;Yet thus much<br /> I
+      heard, and in rememb'rance treasur'd it.<br /> <br />He then, who never
+      fail'd me at my need,<br /> Cried, "Hither turn. &nbsp;Lo! &nbsp;two with
+      sharp remorse<br /> Chiding their sin!" &nbsp;In rear of all the troop<br />
+      These shouted: "First they died, to whom the sea<br /> Open'd, or ever
+      Jordan saw his heirs:<br /> And they, who with Aeneas to the end<br />
+      Endur'd not suffering, for their portion chose<br /> Life without glory."
+      &nbsp;Soon as they had fled<br /> Past reach of sight, new thought within
+      me rose<br /> By others follow'd fast, and each unlike<br /> Its fellow:
+      till led on from thought to thought,<br /> And pleasur'd with the fleeting
+      train, mine eye<br /> Was clos'd, and meditation chang'd to dream. <br />
+      <br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /> <br /><br /> <a name="link19"
+      id="link19"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XIX
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> It was the hour, when of diurnal heat<br /> No reliques chafe the
+      cold beams of the moon,<br /> O'erpower'd by earth, or planetary sway<br />
+      Of Saturn; and the geomancer sees<br /> His Greater Fortune up the east
+      ascend,<br /> Where gray dawn checkers first the shadowy cone;<br /> When
+      'fore me in my dream a woman's shape<br /> There came, with lips that
+      stammer'd, eyes aslant,<br /> Distorted feet, hands maim'd, and colour
+      pale.<br /> <br />I look'd upon her; and as sunshine cheers<br /> Limbs
+      numb'd by nightly cold, e'en thus my look<br /> Unloos'd her tongue, next
+      in brief space her form<br /> Decrepit rais'd erect, and faded face<br />
+      With love's own hue illum'd. Recov'ring speech<br /> She forthwith warbling
+      such a strain began,<br /> That I, how loth soe'er, could scarce have held<br />
+      Attention from the song. &nbsp;"I," thus she sang,<br /> "I am the Siren,
+      she, whom mariners<br /> On the wide sea are wilder'd when they hear:<br />
+      Such fulness of delight the list'ner feels.<br /> I from his course Ulysses
+      by my lay<br /> Enchanted drew. &nbsp;Whoe'er frequents me once<br /> Parts
+      seldom; so I charm him, and his heart<br /> Contented knows no void."
+      &nbsp;Or ere her mouth<br /> Was clos'd, to shame her at her side appear'd<br />
+      A dame of semblance holy. &nbsp;With stern voice<br /> She utter'd; "Say, O
+      Virgil, who is this?"<br /> Which hearing, he approach'd, with eyes still
+      bent<br /> Toward that goodly presence: th' other seiz'd her,<br /> And, her
+      robes tearing, open'd her before,<br /> And show'd the belly to me, whence
+      a smell,<br /> Exhaling loathsome, wak'd me. &nbsp;Round I turn'd<br /> Mine
+      eyes, and thus the teacher: "At the least<br /> Three times my voice hath
+      call'd thee. &nbsp;Rise, begone.<br /> Let us the opening find where thou
+      mayst pass."<br /> <br />I straightway rose. &nbsp;Now day, pour'd down from
+      high,<br /> Fill'd all the circuits of the sacred mount;<br /> And, as we
+      journey'd, on our shoulder smote<br /> The early ray. &nbsp;I follow'd,
+      stooping low<br /> My forehead, as a man, o'ercharg'd with thought,<br />
+      Who bends him to the likeness of an arch,<br /> That midway spans the
+      flood; when thus I heard,<br /> "Come, enter here," in tone so soft and
+      mild,<br /> As never met the ear on mortal strand.<br /> <br />With swan-like
+      wings dispread and pointing up,<br /> Who thus had spoken marshal'd us
+      along,<br /> Where each side of the solid masonry<br /> The sloping, walls
+      retir'd; then mov'd his plumes,<br /> And fanning us, affirm'd that those,
+      who mourn,<br /> Are blessed, for that comfort shall be theirs.<br /> <br />"What
+      aileth thee, that still thou look'st to earth?"<br /> Began my leader;
+      while th' angelic shape<br /> A little over us his station took.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/19-51.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="19-51th.jpg (38K)" src="images/19-51th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />"New vision," I replied, "hath rais'd in me<br />
+      Surmizings strange and anxious doubts, whereon<br /> My soul intent allows
+      no other thought<br /> Or room or entrance."&mdash;"Hast thou seen," said
+      he,<br /> "That old enchantress, her, whose wiles alone<br /> The spirits
+      o'er us weep for? &nbsp;Hast thou seen<br /> How man may free him of her
+      bonds? &nbsp;Enough.<br /> Let thy heels spurn the earth, and thy rais'd
+      ken<br /> Fix on the lure, which heav'n's eternal King<br /> Whirls in the
+      rolling spheres." &nbsp;As on his feet<br /> The falcon first looks down,
+      then to the sky<br /> Turns, and forth stretches eager for the food,<br />
+      That woos him thither; so the call I heard,<br /> So onward, far as the
+      dividing rock<br /> Gave way, I journey'd, till the plain was reach'd.<br />
+      <br />On the fifth circle when I stood at large,<br /> A race appear'd
+      before me, on the ground<br /> All downward lying prone and weeping sore.<br />
+      "My soul hath cleaved to the dust," I heard<br /> With sighs so deep, they
+      well nigh choak'd the words.<br /> "O ye elect of God, whose penal woes<br />
+      Both hope and justice mitigate, direct<br /> Tow'rds the steep rising our
+      uncertain way."<br /> <br />"If ye approach secure from this our doom,<br />
+      Prostration&mdash;and would urge your course with speed,<br /> See that ye
+      still to rightward keep the brink."<br /> <br />So them the bard besought;
+      and such the words,<br /> Beyond us some short space, in answer came.<br />
+      <br />I noted what remain'd yet hidden from them:<br /> Thence to my liege's
+      eyes mine eyes I bent,<br /> And he, forthwith interpreting their suit,<br />
+      Beckon'd his glad assent. Free then to act,<br /> As pleas'd me, I drew
+      near, and took my stand<br /> O`er that shade, whose words I late had
+      mark'd.<br /> And, "Spirit!" &nbsp;I said, "in whom repentant tears<br />
+      Mature that blessed hour, when thou with God<br /> Shalt find acceptance,
+      for a while suspend<br /> For me that mightier care. &nbsp;Say who thou
+      wast,<br /> Why thus ye grovel on your bellies prone,<br /> And if in aught
+      ye wish my service there,<br /> Whence living I am come." &nbsp;He
+      answering spake<br /> "The cause why Heav'n our back toward his cope<br />
+      Reverses, shalt thou know: but me know first<br /> The successor of Peter,
+      and the name<br /> And title of my lineage from that stream,<br /> That'
+      twixt Chiaveri and Siestri draws<br /> His limpid waters through the lowly
+      glen.<br /> A month and little more by proof I learnt,<br /> With what a
+      weight that robe of sov'reignty<br /> Upon his shoulder rests, who from the
+      mire<br /> Would guard it: that each other fardel seems<br /> But feathers
+      in the balance. &nbsp;Late, alas!<br /> Was my conversion: but when I
+      became<br /> Rome's pastor, I discern'd at once the dream<br /> And cozenage
+      of life, saw that the heart<br /> Rested not there, and yet no prouder
+      height<br /> Lur'd on the climber: wherefore, of that life<br /> No more
+      enamour'd, in my bosom love<br /> Of purer being kindled. &nbsp;For till
+      then<br /> I was a soul in misery, alienate<br /> From God, and covetous of
+      all earthly things;<br /> Now, as thou seest, here punish'd for my doting.<br />
+      Such cleansing from the taint of avarice<br /> Do spirits converted need.
+      &nbsp;This mount inflicts<br /> No direr penalty. &nbsp;E'en as our eyes<br />
+      Fasten'd below, nor e'er to loftier clime<br /> Were lifted, thus hath
+      justice level'd us<br /> Here on the earth. &nbsp;As avarice quench'd our
+      love<br /> Of good, without which is no working, thus<br /> Here justice
+      holds us prison'd, hand and foot<br /> Chain'd down and bound, while
+      heaven's just Lord shall please.<br /> So long to tarry motionless
+      outstretch'd."<br /> <br />My knees I stoop'd, and would have spoke; but he,<br />
+      Ere my beginning, by his ear perceiv'd<br /> I did him reverence; and "What
+      cause," said he,<br /> "Hath bow'd thee thus!"&mdash;"Compunction," I
+      rejoin'd.<br /> "And inward awe of your high dignity."<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/19-131.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="19-131th.jpg (44K)" src="images/19-131th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />"Up," he exclaim'd, "brother! upon thy feet<br />
+      Arise: err not: thy fellow servant I,<br /> (Thine and all others') of one
+      Sovran Power.<br /> If thou hast ever mark'd those holy sounds<br /> Of
+      gospel truth, 'nor shall be given ill marriage,'<br /> Thou mayst discern
+      the reasons of my speech.<br /> Go thy ways now; and linger here no more.<br />
+      Thy tarrying is a let unto the tears,<br /> With which I hasten that
+      whereof thou spak'st.<br /> I have on earth a kinswoman; her name<br />
+      Alagia, worthy in herself, so ill<br /> Example of our house corrupt her
+      not:<br /> And she is all remaineth of me there." <br /><br /> <a
+      name="link20" id="link20"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XX
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Ill strives the will, 'gainst will more wise that strives<br /> His
+      pleasure therefore to mine own preferr'd,<br /> I drew the sponge yet
+      thirsty from the wave.<br /> <br />Onward I mov'd: he also onward mov'd,<br />
+      Who led me, coasting still, wherever place<br /> Along the rock was vacant,
+      as a man<br /> Walks near the battlements on narrow wall.<br /> For those on
+      th' other part, who drop by drop<br /> Wring out their all-infecting
+      malady,<br /> Too closely press the verge. &nbsp;Accurst be thou!<br />
+      Inveterate wolf! whose gorge ingluts more prey,<br /> Than every beast
+      beside, yet is not fill'd!<br /> So bottomless thy maw!&mdash;Ye spheres of
+      heaven!<br /> To whom there are, as seems, who attribute<br /> All change in
+      mortal state, when is the day<br /> Of his appearing, for whom fate
+      reserves<br /> To chase her hence? &nbsp;&mdash;With wary steps and slow<br />
+      We pass'd; and I attentive to the shades,<br /> Whom piteously I heard
+      lament and wail;<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/20-17.jpg">ENLARGE
+      TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="20-17th.jpg (38K)" src="images/20-17th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> And, 'midst the wailing, one before us heard<br /> Cry
+      out "O blessed Virgin!" &nbsp;as a dame<br /> In the sharp pangs of
+      childbed; and "How poor<br /> Thou wast," it added, "witness that low roof<br />
+      Where thou didst lay thy sacred burden down.<br /> O good Fabricius! thou
+      didst virtue choose<br /> With poverty, before great wealth with vice."<br />
+      <br />The words so pleas'd me, that desire to know<br /> The spirit, from
+      whose lip they seem'd to come,<br /> Did draw me onward. &nbsp;Yet it spake
+      the gift<br /> Of Nicholas, which on the maidens he<br /> Bounteous
+      bestow'd, to save their youthful prime<br /> Unblemish'd. &nbsp;"Spirit!
+      who dost speak of deeds<br /> So worthy, tell me who thou was," I said,<br />
+      "And why thou dost with single voice renew<br /> Memorial of such praise.
+      That boon vouchsaf'd<br /> Haply shall meet reward; if I return<br /> To
+      finish the Short pilgrimage of life,<br /> Still speeding to its close on
+      restless wing."<br /> <br />"I," answer'd he, "will tell thee, not for hell,<br />
+      Which thence I look for; but that in thyself<br /> Grace so exceeding
+      shines, before thy time<br /> Of mortal dissolution. &nbsp;I was root<br />
+      Of that ill plant, whose shade such poison sheds<br /> O'er all the
+      Christian land, that seldom thence<br /> Good fruit is gather'd. &nbsp;Vengeance
+      soon should come,<br /> Had Ghent and Douay, Lille and Bruges power;<br />
+      And vengeance I of heav'n's great Judge implore.<br /> Hugh Capet was I
+      high: from me descend<br /> The Philips and the Louis, of whom France<br />
+      Newly is govern'd; born of one, who ply'd<br /> The slaughterer's trade at
+      Paris. &nbsp;When the race<br /> Of ancient kings had vanish'd (all save
+      one<br /> Wrapt up in sable weeds) within my gripe<br /> I found the reins
+      of empire, and such powers<br /> Of new acquirement, with full store of
+      friends,<br /> That soon the widow'd circlet of the crown<br /> Was girt
+      upon the temples of my son,<br /> He, from whose bones th' anointed race
+      begins.<br /> Till the great dower of Provence had remov'd<br /> The stains,
+      that yet obscur'd our lowly blood,<br /> Its sway indeed was narrow, but
+      howe'er<br /> It wrought no evil: there, with force and lies,<br /> Began
+      its rapine; after, for amends,<br /> Poitou it seiz'd, Navarre and Gascony.<br />
+      To Italy came Charles, and for amends<br /> Young Conradine an innocent
+      victim slew,<br /> And sent th' angelic teacher back to heav'n,<br /> Still
+      for amends. &nbsp;I see the time at hand,<br /> That forth from France
+      invites another Charles<br /> To make himself and kindred better known.<br />
+      Unarm'd he issues, saving with that lance,<br /> Which the arch-traitor
+      tilted with; and that<br /> He carries with so home a thrust, as rives<br />
+      The bowels of poor Florence. &nbsp;No increase<br /> Of territory hence,
+      but sin and shame<br /> Shall be his guerdon, and so much the more<br /> As
+      he more lightly deems of such foul wrong.<br /> I see the other, who a
+      prisoner late<br /> Had steps on shore, exposing to the mart<br /> His
+      daughter, whom he bargains for, as do<br /> The Corsairs for their slaves.
+      &nbsp;O avarice!<br /> What canst thou more, who hast subdued our blood<br />
+      So wholly to thyself, they feel no care<br /> Of their own flesh? &nbsp;To
+      hide with direr guilt<br /> Past ill and future, &nbsp;lo! the
+      flower-de-luce<br /> Enters Alagna! in his Vicar Christ<br /> Himself a
+      captive, and his mockery<br /> Acted again! Lo! lo his holy lip<br /> The
+      vinegar and gall once more applied!<br /> And he 'twixt living robbers
+      doom'd to bleed!<br /> Lo! the new Pilate, of whose cruelty<br /> Such
+      violence cannot fill the measure up,<br /> With no degree to sanction,
+      pushes on<br /> Into the temple his yet eager sails!<br /> <br />"O sovran
+      Master! when shall I rejoice<br /> To see the vengeance, which thy wrath
+      well-pleas'd<br /> In secret silence broods?&mdash;While daylight lasts,<br />
+      So long what thou didst hear of her, sole spouse<br /> Of the Great Spirit,
+      and on which thou turn'dst<br /> To me for comment, is the general theme<br />
+      Of all our prayers: but when it darkens, then<br /> A different strain we
+      utter, then record<br /> Pygmalion, whom his gluttonous thirst of gold<br />
+      Made traitor, robber, parricide: the woes<br /> Of Midas, which his greedy
+      wish ensued,<br /> Mark'd for derision to all future times:<br /> And the
+      fond Achan, how he stole the prey,<br /> That yet he seems by Joshua's ire
+      pursued.<br /> Sapphira with her husband next, we blame;<br /> And praise
+      the forefeet, that with furious ramp<br /> Spurn'd Heliodorus. &nbsp;All
+      the mountain round<br /> Rings with the infamy of Thracia's king,<br /> Who
+      slew his Phrygian charge: and last a shout<br /> Ascends: "Declare, O
+      Crassus! for thou know'st,<br /> The flavour of thy gold." &nbsp;The voice
+      of each<br /> Now high now low, as each his impulse prompts,<br /> Is led
+      through many a pitch, acute or grave.<br /> Therefore, not singly, I
+      erewhile rehears'd<br /> That blessedness we tell of in the day:<br /> But
+      near me none beside his accent rais'd."<br /> <br />From him we now had
+      parted, and essay'd<br /> With utmost efforts to surmount the way,<br />
+      When I did feel, as nodding to its fall,<br /> The mountain tremble; whence
+      an icy chill<br /> Seiz'd on me, as on one to death convey'd.<br /> So shook
+      not Delos, when Latona there<br /> Couch'd to bring forth the twin-born
+      eyes of heaven.<br /> <br />Forthwith from every side a shout arose<br /> So
+      vehement, that suddenly my guide<br /> Drew near, and cried: "Doubt not,
+      while I conduct thee."<br /> "Glory!" all shouted (such the sounds mine ear<br />
+      Gather'd from those, who near me swell'd the sounds)<br /> "Glory in the
+      highest be to God." &nbsp;We stood<br /> Immovably suspended, like to
+      those,<br /> The shepherds, who first heard in Bethlehem's field<br /> That
+      song: till ceas'd the trembling, and the song<br /> Was ended: then our
+      hallow'd path resum'd,<br /> Eying the prostrate shadows, who renew'd<br />
+      Their custom'd mourning. &nbsp;Never in my breast<br /> Did ignorance so
+      struggle with desire<br /> Of knowledge, if my memory do not err,<br /> As
+      in that moment; nor through haste dar'd I<br /> To question, nor myself
+      could aught discern,<br /> So on I far'd in thoughtfulness and dread. <br /><br />
+      <a name="link21" id="link21"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXI
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> The natural thirst, ne'er quench'd but from the well,<br /> Whereof
+      the woman of Samaria crav'd,<br /> Excited: haste along the cumber'd path,<br />
+      After my guide, impell'd; and pity mov'd<br /> My bosom for the 'vengeful
+      deed, though just.<br /> When lo! even as Luke relates, that Christ<br />
+      Appear'd unto the two upon their way,<br /> New-risen from his vaulted
+      grave; to us<br /> A shade appear'd, and after us approach'd,<br />
+      Contemplating the crowd beneath its feet.<br /> We were not ware of it; so
+      first it spake,<br /> Saying, "God give you peace, my brethren!" then<br />
+      Sudden we turn'd: and Virgil such salute,<br /> As fitted that kind
+      greeting, gave, and cried:<br /> "Peace in the blessed council be thy lot<br />
+      Awarded by that righteous court, which me<br /> To everlasting banishment
+      exiles!"<br /> <br />"How!" he exclaim'd, nor from his speed meanwhile<br />
+      Desisting, "If that ye be spirits, whom God<br /> Vouchsafes not room
+      above, who up the height<br /> Has been thus far your guide?" &nbsp;To whom
+      the bard:<br /> "If thou observe the tokens, which this man<br /> Trac'd by
+      the finger of the angel bears,<br /> 'Tis plain that in the kingdom of the
+      just<br /> He needs must share. &nbsp;But sithence she, whose wheel<br />
+      Spins day and night, for him not yet had drawn<br /> That yarn, which, on
+      the fatal distaff pil'd,<br /> Clotho apportions to each wight that
+      breathes,<br /> His soul, that sister is to mine and thine,<br /> Not of
+      herself could mount, for not like ours<br /> Her ken: whence I, from forth
+      the ample gulf<br /> Of hell was ta'en, to lead him, and will lead<br /> Far
+      as my lore avails. &nbsp;But, if thou know,<br /> Instruct us for what
+      cause, the mount erewhile<br /> Thus shook and trembled: wherefore all at
+      once<br /> Seem'd shouting, even from his wave-wash'd foot."<br /> <br />That
+      questioning so tallied with my wish,<br /> The thirst did feel abatement of
+      its edge<br /> E'en from expectance. &nbsp;He forthwith replied,<br /> "In
+      its devotion nought irregular<br /> This mount can witness, or by punctual
+      rule<br /> Unsanction'd; here from every change exempt.<br /> Other than
+      that, which heaven in itself<br /> Doth of itself receive, no influence<br />
+      Can reach us. &nbsp;Tempest none, shower, hail or snow,<br /> Hoar frost or
+      dewy moistness, higher falls<br /> Than that brief scale of threefold
+      steps: thick clouds<br /> Nor scudding rack are ever seen: swift glance<br />
+      Ne'er lightens, nor Thaumantian Iris gleams,<br /> That yonder often shift
+      on each side heav'n.<br /> Vapour adust doth never mount above<br /> The
+      highest of the trinal stairs, whereon<br /> Peter's vicegerent stands.
+      &nbsp;Lower perchance,<br /> With various motion rock'd, trembles the soil:<br />
+      But here, through wind in earth's deep hollow pent,<br /> I know not how,
+      yet never trembled: then<br /> Trembles, when any spirit feels itself<br />
+      So purified, that it may rise, or move<br /> For rising, and such loud
+      acclaim ensues.<br /> Purification by the will alone<br /> Is prov'd, that
+      free to change society<br /> Seizes the soul rejoicing in her will.<br />
+      Desire of bliss is present from the first;<br /> But strong propension
+      hinders, to that wish<br /> By the just ordinance of heav'n oppos'd;<br />
+      Propension now as eager to fulfil<br /> Th' allotted torment, as erewhile
+      to sin.<br /> And I who in this punishment had lain<br /> Five hundred years
+      and more, but now have felt<br /> Free wish for happier clime. &nbsp;Therefore
+      thou felt'st<br /> The mountain tremble, and the spirits devout<br />
+      Heard'st, over all his limits, utter praise<br /> To that liege Lord, whom
+      I entreat their joy<br /> To hasten." &nbsp;Thus he spake: and since the
+      draught<br /> Is grateful ever as the thirst is keen,<br /> No words may
+      speak my fullness of content.<br /> <br />"Now," said the instructor sage,
+      "I see the net<br /> That takes ye here, and how the toils are loos'd,<br />
+      Why rocks the mountain and why ye rejoice.<br /> Vouchsafe, that from thy
+      lips I next may learn,<br /> Who on the earth thou wast, and wherefore here<br />
+      So many an age wert prostrate."&mdash;"In that time,<br /> When the good
+      Titus, with Heav'n's King to help,<br /> Aveng'd those piteous gashes,
+      whence the blood<br /> By Judas sold did issue, with the name<br /> Most
+      lasting and most honour'd there was I<br /> Abundantly renown'd," the shade
+      reply'd,<br /> "Not yet with faith endued. &nbsp;So passing sweet<br /> My
+      vocal Spirit, from Tolosa, Rome<br /> To herself drew me, where I merited<br />
+      A myrtle garland to inwreathe my brow.<br /> Statius they name me still.
+      &nbsp;Of Thebes I sang,<br /> And next of great Achilles: but i' th' way<br />
+      Fell with the second burthen. &nbsp;Of my flame<br /> Those sparkles were
+      the seeds, which I deriv'd<br /> From the bright fountain of celestial fire<br />
+      That feeds unnumber'd lamps, the song I mean<br /> Which sounds Aeneas'
+      wand'rings: that the breast<br /> I hung at, that the nurse, from whom my
+      veins<br /> Drank inspiration: whose authority<br /> Was ever sacred with
+      me. &nbsp;To have liv'd<br /> Coeval with the Mantuan, I would bide<br />
+      The revolution of another sun<br /> Beyond my stated years in banishment."<br />
+      <br />The Mantuan, when he heard him, turn'd to me,<br /> And holding
+      silence: by his countenance<br /> Enjoin'd me silence but the power which
+      wills,<br /> Bears not supreme control: laughter and tears<br /> Follow so
+      closely on the passion prompts them,<br /> They wait not for the motions of
+      the will<br /> In natures most sincere. &nbsp;I did but smile,<br /> As one
+      who winks; and thereupon the shade<br /> Broke off, and peer'd into mine
+      eyes, where best<br /> Our looks interpret. "So to good event<br /> Mayst
+      thou conduct such great emprize," he cried,<br /> "Say, why across thy
+      visage beam'd, but now,<br /> The lightning of a smile!" &nbsp;On either
+      part<br /> Now am I straiten'd; one conjures me speak,<br /> Th' other to
+      silence binds me: whence a sigh<br /> I utter, and the sigh is heard.
+      &nbsp;"Speak on;"<br /> The teacher cried; "and do not fear to speak,<br />
+      But tell him what so earnestly he asks."<br /> Whereon I thus: "Perchance,
+      O ancient spirit!<br /> Thou marvel'st at my smiling. There is room<br />
+      For yet more wonder. &nbsp;He who guides my ken<br /> On high, he is that
+      Mantuan, led by whom<br /> Thou didst presume of men and gods to sing.<br />
+      If other cause thou deem'dst for which I smil'd,<br /> Leave it as not the
+      true one; and believe<br /> Those words, thou spak'st of him, indeed the
+      cause."<br /> <br />Now down he bent t' embrace my teacher's feet;<br /> But
+      he forbade him: "Brother! do it not:<br /> Thou art a shadow, and behold'st
+      a shade."<br /> He rising answer'd thus: "Now hast thou prov'd<br /> The
+      force and ardour of the love I bear thee,<br /> When I forget we are but
+      things of air,<br /> And as a substance treat an empty shade." <br /><br />
+      <a name="link22" id="link22"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXII
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Now we had left the angel, who had turn'd<br /> To the sixth circle
+      our ascending step,<br /> One gash from off my forehead raz'd: while they,<br />
+      Whose wishes tend to justice, shouted forth:<br /> "Blessed!" &nbsp;and
+      ended with, "I thirst:" and I,<br /> More nimble than along the other
+      straits,<br /> So journey'd, that, without the sense of toil,<br /> I
+      follow'd upward the swift-footed shades;<br /> When Virgil thus began: "Let
+      its pure flame<br /> From virtue flow, and love can never fail<br /> To warm
+      another's bosom' so the light<br /> Shine manifestly forth. &nbsp;Hence
+      from that hour,<br /> When 'mongst us in the purlieus of the deep,<br />
+      Came down the spirit of Aquinum's hard,<br /> Who told of thine affection,
+      my good will<br /> Hath been for thee of quality as strong<br /> As ever
+      link'd itself to one not seen.<br /> Therefore these stairs will now seem
+      short to me.<br /> But tell me: and if too secure I loose<br /> The rein
+      with a friend's license, as a friend<br /> Forgive me, and speak now as
+      with a friend:<br /> How chanc'd it covetous desire could find<br /> Place
+      in that bosom, 'midst such ample store<br /> Of wisdom, as thy zeal had
+      treasur'd there?"<br /> <br />First somewhat mov'd to laughter by his words,<br />
+      Statius replied: "Each syllable of thine<br /> Is a dear pledge of love.
+      &nbsp;Things oft appear<br /> That minister false matters to our doubts,<br />
+      When their true causes are remov'd from sight.<br /> Thy question doth
+      assure me, thou believ'st<br /> I was on earth a covetous man, perhaps<br />
+      Because thou found'st me in that circle plac'd.<br /> Know then I was too
+      wide of avarice:<br /> And e'en for that excess, thousands of moons<br />
+      Have wax'd and wan'd upon my sufferings.<br /> And were it not that I with
+      heedful care<br /> Noted where thou exclaim'st as if in ire<br /> With human
+      nature, 'Why, thou cursed thirst<br /> Of gold! dost not with juster
+      measure guide<br /> The appetite of mortals?' &nbsp;I had met<br /> The
+      fierce encounter of the voluble rock.<br /> Then was I ware that with too
+      ample wing<br /> The hands may haste to lavishment, and turn'd,<br /> As
+      from my other evil, so from this<br /> In penitence. &nbsp;How many from
+      their grave<br /> Shall with shorn locks arise, who living, aye<br /> And at
+      life's last extreme, of this offence,<br /> Through ignorance, did not
+      repent. &nbsp;And know,<br /> The fault which lies direct from any sin<br />
+      In level opposition, here With that<br /> Wastes its green rankness on one
+      common heap.<br /> Therefore if I have been with those, who wail<br /> Their
+      avarice, to cleanse me, through reverse<br /> Of their transgression, such
+      hath been my lot."<br /> <br />To whom the sovran of the pastoral song:<br />
+      "While thou didst sing that cruel warfare wag'd<br /> By the twin sorrow of
+      Jocasta's womb,<br /> From thy discourse with Clio there, it seems<br /> As
+      faith had not been shine: without the which<br /> Good deeds suffice not.
+      &nbsp;And if so, what sun<br /> Rose on thee, or what candle pierc'd the
+      dark<br /> That thou didst after see to hoist the sail,<br /> And follow,
+      where the fisherman had led?"<br /> <br />He answering thus: "By thee
+      conducted first,<br /> I enter'd the Parnassian grots, and quaff'd<br /> Of
+      the clear spring; illumin'd first by thee<br /> Open'd mine eyes to God.
+      &nbsp;Thou didst, as one,<br /> Who, journeying through the darkness, hears
+      a light<br /> Behind, that profits not himself, but makes<br /> His
+      followers wise, when thou exclaimedst, 'Lo!<br /> A renovated world! &nbsp;Justice
+      return'd!<br /> Times of primeval innocence restor'd!<br /> And a new race
+      descended from above!'<br /> Poet and Christian both to thee I owed.<br />
+      That thou mayst mark more clearly what I trace,<br /> My hand shall stretch
+      forth to inform the lines<br /> With livelier colouring. &nbsp;Soon o'er
+      all the world,<br /> By messengers from heav'n, the true belief<br /> Teem'd
+      now prolific, and that word of thine<br /> Accordant, to the new
+      instructors chim'd.<br /> Induc'd by which agreement, I was wont<br />
+      Resort to them; and soon their sanctity<br /> So won upon me, that,
+      Domitian's rage<br /> Pursuing them, I mix'd my tears with theirs,<br />
+      And, while on earth I stay'd, still succour'd them;<br /> And their most
+      righteous customs made me scorn<br /> All sects besides. &nbsp;Before I led
+      the Greeks<br /> In tuneful fiction, to the streams of Thebes,<br /> I was
+      baptiz'd; but secretly, through fear,<br /> Remain'd a Christian, and
+      conform'd long time<br /> To Pagan rites. &nbsp;Five centuries and more,<br />
+      T for that lukewarmness was fain to pace<br /> Round the fourth circle.
+      &nbsp;Thou then, who hast rais'd<br /> The covering, which did hide such
+      blessing from me,<br /> Whilst much of this ascent is yet to climb,<br />
+      Say, if thou know, where our old Terence bides,<br /> Caecilius, Plautus,
+      Varro: if condemn'd<br /> They dwell, and in what province of the deep."<br />
+      "These," said my guide, "with Persius and myself,<br /> And others many
+      more, are with that Greek,<br /> Of mortals, the most cherish'd by the
+      Nine,<br /> In the first ward of darkness. &nbsp;There ofttimes<br /> We of
+      that mount hold converse, on whose top<br /> For aye our nurses live.
+      &nbsp;We have the bard<br /> Of Pella, and the Teian, Agatho,<br />
+      Simonides, and many a Grecian else<br /> Ingarlanded with laurel. &nbsp;Of
+      thy train<br /> Antigone is there, Deiphile,<br /> Argia, and as sorrowful
+      as erst<br /> Ismene, and who show'd Langia's wave:<br /> Deidamia with her
+      sisters there,<br /> And blind Tiresias' daughter, and the bride<br />
+      Sea-born of Peleus." &nbsp;Either poet now<br /> Was silent, and no longer
+      by th' ascent<br /> Or the steep walls obstructed, round them cast<br />
+      Inquiring eyes. &nbsp;Four handmaids of the day<br /> Had finish'd now
+      their office, and the fifth<br /> Was at the chariot-beam, directing still<br />
+      Its balmy point aloof, when thus my guide:<br /> "Methinks, it well
+      behooves us to the brink<br /> Bend the right shoulder' circuiting the
+      mount,<br /> As we have ever us'd." &nbsp;So custom there<br /> Was usher to
+      the road, the which we chose<br /> Less doubtful, as that worthy shade
+      complied.<br /> <br />They on before me went; I sole pursued,<br /> List'ning
+      their speech, that to my thoughts convey'd<br /> Mysterious lessons of
+      sweet poesy.<br /> But soon they ceas'd; for midway of the road<br /> A tree
+      we found, with goodly fruitage hung,<br /> And pleasant to the smell: and
+      as a fir<br /> Upward from bough to bough less ample spreads,<br /> So
+      downward this less ample spread, that none.<br /> Methinks, aloft may
+      climb. &nbsp;Upon the side,<br /> That clos'd our path, a liquid crystal
+      fell<br /> From the steep rock, and through the sprays above<br /> Stream'd
+      showering. &nbsp;With associate step the bards<br /> Drew near the plant;
+      and from amidst the leaves<br /> A voice was heard: "Ye shall be chary of
+      me;"<br /> And after added: "Mary took more thought<br /> For joy and honour
+      of the nuptial feast,<br /> Than for herself who answers now for you.<br />
+      The women of old Rome were satisfied<br /> With water for their beverage.
+      &nbsp;Daniel fed<br /> On pulse, and wisdom gain'd. &nbsp;The primal age<br />
+      Was beautiful as gold; and hunger then<br /> Made acorns tasteful, thirst
+      each rivulet<br /> Run nectar. &nbsp;Honey and locusts were the food,<br />
+      Whereon the Baptist in the wilderness<br /> Fed, and that eminence of glory
+      reach'd<br /> And greatness, which the' Evangelist records." <br /><br />
+      <a name="link23" id="link23"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXIII
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> On the green leaf mine eyes were fix'd, like his<br /> Who throws
+      away his days in idle chase<br /> Of the diminutive, when thus I heard<br />
+      The more than father warn me: "Son! our time<br /> Asks thriftier using.
+      &nbsp;Linger not: away."<br /> <br />Thereat my face and steps at once I
+      turn'd<br /> Toward the sages, by whose converse cheer'd<br /> I journey'd
+      on, and felt no toil: and lo!<br /> A sound of weeping and a song: "My
+      lips,<br /> O Lord!" and these so mingled, it gave birth<br /> To pleasure
+      and to pain. &nbsp;"O Sire, belov'd!<br /> Say what is this I hear?" &nbsp;Thus
+      I inquir'd.<br /> <br />"Spirits," said he, "who as they go, perchance,<br />
+      Their debt of duty pay." &nbsp;As on their road<br /> The thoughtful
+      pilgrims, overtaking some<br /> Not known unto them, turn to them, and
+      look,<br /> But stay not; thus, approaching from behind<br /> With speedier
+      motion, eyed us, as they pass'd,<br /> A crowd of spirits, silent and
+      devout.<br /> The eyes of each were dark and hollow: pale<br /> Their
+      visage, and so lean withal, the bones<br /> Stood staring thro' the skin.
+      &nbsp;I do not think<br /> Thus dry and meagre Erisicthon show'd,<br /> When
+      pinc'ed by sharp-set famine to the quick.<br /> <br />"Lo!" to myself I
+      mus'd, "the race, who lost<br /> Jerusalem, when Mary with dire beak<br />
+      Prey'd on her child." &nbsp;The sockets seem'd as rings,<br /> From which
+      the gems were drops. &nbsp;Who reads the name<br /> Of man upon his
+      forehead, there the M<br /> Had trac'd most plainly. &nbsp;Who would deem,
+      that scent<br /> Of water and an apple, could have prov'd<br /> Powerful to
+      generate such pining want,<br /> Not knowing how it wrought? &nbsp;While
+      now I stood<br /> Wond'ring what thus could waste them (for the cause<br />
+      Of their gaunt hollowness and scaly rind<br /> Appear'd not) lo! a spirit
+      turn'd his eyes<br /> In their deep-sunken cell, and fasten'd then<br /> On
+      me, then cried with vehemence aloud:<br /> "What grace is this vouchsaf'd
+      me?" &nbsp;By his looks<br /> I ne'er had recogniz'd him: but the voice<br />
+      Brought to my knowledge what his cheer conceal'd.<br /> Remembrance of his
+      alter'd lineaments<br /> Was kindled from that spark; and I agniz'd<br />
+      The visage of Forese. &nbsp;"Ah! respect<br /> This wan and leprous
+      wither'd skin," thus he<br /> Suppliant implor'd, "this macerated flesh.<br />
+      Speak to me truly of thyself. &nbsp;And who<br /> Are those twain spirits,
+      that escort thee there?<br /> Be it not said thou Scorn'st to talk with
+      me."<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/23-47.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL
+      SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="23-47th.jpg (46K)" src="images/23-47th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />"That face of thine," I answer'd him, "which
+      dead<br /> I once bewail'd, disposes me not less<br /> For weeping, when I
+      see It thus transform'd.<br /> Say then, by Heav'n, what blasts ye thus?
+      &nbsp;The whilst<br /> I wonder, ask not Speech from me: unapt<br /> Is he
+      to speak, whom other will employs."<br /> <br />He thus: "The water and tee
+      plant we pass'd,<br /> Virtue possesses, by th' eternal will<br /> Infus'd,
+      the which so pines me. &nbsp;Every spirit,<br /> Whose song bewails his
+      gluttony indulg'd<br /> Too grossly, here in hunger and in thirst<br /> Is
+      purified. &nbsp;The odour, which the fruit,<br /> And spray, that showers
+      upon the verdure, breathe,<br /> Inflames us with desire to feed and drink.<br />
+      Nor once alone encompassing our route<br /> We come to add fresh fuel to
+      the pain:<br /> Pain, said I? &nbsp;solace rather: for that will<br /> To
+      the tree leads us, by which Christ was led<br /> To call Elias, joyful when
+      he paid<br /> Our ransom from his vein." &nbsp;I answering thus:<br />
+      "Forese! from that day, in which the world<br /> For better life thou
+      changedst, not five years<br /> Have circled. &nbsp;If the power of sinning
+      more<br /> Were first concluded in thee, ere thou knew'st<br /> That kindly
+      grief, which re-espouses us<br /> To God, how hither art thou come so soon?<br />
+      I thought to find thee lower, there, where time<br /> Is recompense for
+      time." &nbsp;He straight replied:<br /> "To drink up the sweet wormwood of
+      affliction<br /> I have been brought thus early by the tears<br /> Stream'd
+      down my Nella's cheeks. &nbsp;Her prayers devout,<br /> Her sighs have
+      drawn me from the coast, where oft<br /> Expectance lingers, and have set
+      me free<br /> From th' other circles. &nbsp;In the sight of God<br /> So
+      much the dearer is my widow priz'd,<br /> She whom I lov'd so fondly, as
+      she ranks<br /> More singly eminent for virtuous deeds.<br /> The tract most
+      barb'rous of Sardinia's isle,<br /> Hath dames more chaste and modester by
+      far<br /> Than that wherein I left her. &nbsp;O sweet brother!<br /> What
+      wouldst thou have me say? &nbsp;A time to come<br /> Stands full within my
+      view, to which this hour<br /> Shall not be counted of an ancient date,<br />
+      When from the pulpit shall be loudly warn'd<br /> Th' unblushing dames of
+      Florence, lest they bare<br /> Unkerchief'd bosoms to the common gaze.<br />
+      What savage women hath the world e'er seen,<br /> What Saracens, for whom
+      there needed scourge<br /> Of spiritual or other discipline,<br /> To force
+      them walk with cov'ring on their limbs!<br /> But did they see, the
+      shameless ones, that Heav'n<br /> Wafts on swift wing toward them, while I
+      speak,<br /> Their mouths were op'd for howling: they shall taste<br /> Of
+      Borrow (unless foresight cheat me here)<br /> Or ere the cheek of him be
+      cloth'd with down<br /> Who is now rock'd with lullaby asleep.<br /> Ah!
+      now, my brother, hide thyself no more,<br /> Thou seest how not I alone but
+      all<br /> Gaze, where thou veil'st the intercepted sun."<br /> <br />Whence I
+      replied: "If thou recall to mind<br /> What we were once together, even yet<br />
+      Remembrance of those days may grieve thee sore.<br /> That I forsook that
+      life, was due to him<br /> Who there precedes me, some few evenings past,<br />
+      When she was round, who shines with sister lamp<br /> To his, that glisters
+      yonder," and I show'd<br /> The sun. &nbsp;"Tis he, who through profoundest
+      night<br /> Of he true dead has brought me, with this flesh<br /> As true,
+      that follows. &nbsp;From that gloom the aid<br /> Of his sure comfort drew
+      me on to climb,<br /> And climbing wind along this mountain-steep,<br />
+      Which rectifies in you whate'er the world<br /> Made crooked and deprav'd I
+      have his word,<br /> That he will bear me company as far<br /> As till I
+      come where Beatrice dwells:<br /> But there must leave me. &nbsp;Virgil is
+      that spirit,<br /> Who thus hath promis'd," &nbsp;and I pointed to him;<br />
+      "The other is that shade, for whom so late<br /> Your realm, as he arose,
+      exulting shook<br /> Through every pendent cliff and rocky bound." <br /><br />
+      <a name="link24" id="link24"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXIV
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Our journey was not slacken'd by our talk,<br /> Nor yet our talk by
+      journeying. &nbsp;Still we spake,<br /> And urg'd our travel stoutly, like
+      a ship<br /> When the wind sits astern. &nbsp;The shadowy forms,<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/24-4.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="24-4th.jpg (38K)" src="images/24-4th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> That seem'd things dead and dead again, drew in<br />
+      At their deep-delved orbs rare wonder of me,<br /> Perceiving I had life;
+      and I my words<br /> Continued, and thus spake; "He journeys up<br />
+      Perhaps more tardily then else he would,<br /> For others' sake. &nbsp;But
+      tell me, if thou know'st,<br /> Where is Piccarda? &nbsp;Tell me, if I see<br />
+      Any of mark, among this multitude,<br /> Who eye me thus."&mdash;"My sister
+      (she for whom,<br /> 'Twixt beautiful and good I cannot say<br /> Which name
+      was fitter ) wears e'en now her crown,<br /> And triumphs in Olympus."
+      &nbsp;Saying this,<br /> He added: "Since spare diet hath so worn<br /> Our
+      semblance out, 't is lawful here to name<br /> Each one. &nbsp;This," and
+      his finger then he rais'd,<br /> "Is Buonaggiuna,&mdash;Buonaggiuna, he<br />
+      Of Lucca: and that face beyond him, pierc'd<br /> Unto a leaner fineness
+      than the rest,<br /> Had keeping of the church: he was of Tours,<br /> And
+      purges by wan abstinence away<br /> Bolsena's eels and cups of muscadel."<br />
+      <br />He show'd me many others, one by one,<br /> And all, as they were
+      nam'd, seem'd well content;<br /> For no dark gesture I discern'd in any.<br />
+      I saw through hunger Ubaldino grind<br /> His teeth on emptiness; and
+      Boniface,<br /> That wav'd the crozier o'er a num'rous flock.<br /> I saw
+      the Marquis, who tad time erewhile<br /> To swill at Forli with less
+      drought, yet so<br /> Was one ne'er sated. &nbsp;I howe'er, like him,<br />
+      That gazing 'midst a crowd, singles out one,<br /> So singled him of Lucca;
+      for methought<br /> Was none amongst them took such note of me.<br />
+      Somewhat I heard him whisper of Gentucca:<br /> The sound was indistinct,
+      and murmur'd there,<br /> Where justice, that so strips them, fix'd her
+      sting.<br /> <br />"Spirit!" said I, "it seems as thou wouldst fain<br />
+      Speak with me. &nbsp;Let me hear thee. &nbsp;Mutual wish<br /> To converse
+      prompts, which let us both indulge."<br /> <br />He, answ'ring, straight
+      began: "Woman is born,<br /> Whose brow no wimple shades yet, that shall
+      make<br /> My city please thee, blame it as they may.<br /> Go then with
+      this forewarning. &nbsp;If aught false<br /> My whisper too implied, th'
+      event shall tell<br /> But say, if of a &nbsp;truth I see the man<br /> Of
+      that new lay th' inventor, which begins<br /> With 'Ladies, ye that con the
+      lore of love'."<br /> <br />To whom I thus: "Count of me but as one<br /> Who
+      am the scribe of love; that, when he breathes,<br /> Take up my pen, and,
+      as he dictates, write."<br /> <br />"Brother!" said he, "the hind'rance
+      which once held<br /> The notary with Guittone and myself,<br /> Short of
+      that new and sweeter style I hear,<br /> Is now disclos'd. &nbsp;I see how
+      ye your plumes<br /> Stretch, as th' inditer guides them; which, no
+      question,<br /> Ours did not. &nbsp;He that seeks a grace beyond,<br /> Sees
+      not the distance parts one style from other."<br /> And, as contented, here
+      he held his peace.<br /> <br />Like as the bird, that winter near the Nile,<br />
+      In squared regiment direct their course,<br /> Then stretch themselves in
+      file for speedier flight;<br /> Thus all the tribe of spirits, as they
+      turn'd<br /> Their visage, faster deaf, nimble alike<br /> Through leanness
+      and desire. &nbsp;And as a man,<br /> Tir'd With the motion of a trotting
+      steed,<br /> Slacks pace, and stays behind his company,<br /> Till his
+      o'erbreathed lungs keep temperate time;<br /> E'en so Forese let that holy
+      crew<br /> Proceed, behind them lingering at my side,<br /> And saying:
+      "When shall I again behold thee?"<br /> <br />"How long my life may last,"
+      said I, "I know not;<br /> This know, how soon soever I return,<br /> My
+      wishes will before me have arriv'd.<br /> Sithence the place, where I am
+      set to live,<br /> Is, day by day, more scoop'd of all its good,<br /> And
+      dismal ruin seems to threaten it."<br /> <br />"Go now," he cried: "lo! he,
+      whose guilt is most,<br /> Passes before my vision, dragg'd at heels<br />
+      Of an infuriate beast. &nbsp;Toward the vale,<br /> Where guilt hath no
+      redemption, on it speeds,<br /> Each step increasing swiftness on the last;<br />
+      Until a blow it strikes, that leaveth him<br /> A corse most vilely
+      shatter'd. &nbsp;No long space<br /> Those wheels have yet to roll" &nbsp;(therewith
+      his eyes<br /> Look'd up to heav'n) "ere thou shalt plainly see<br /> That
+      which my words may not more plainly tell.<br /> I quit thee: time is
+      precious here: I lose<br /> Too much, thus measuring my pace with shine."<br />
+      <br />As from a troop of well-rank'd chivalry<br /> One knight, more
+      enterprising than the rest,<br /> Pricks forth at gallop, eager to display<br />
+      His prowess in the first encounter prov'd<br /> So parted he from us with
+      lengthen'd strides,<br /> And left me on the way with those twain spirits,<br />
+      Who were such mighty marshals of the world.<br /> <br />When he beyond us
+      had so fled mine eyes<br /> No nearer reach'd him, than my thought his
+      words,<br /> The branches of another fruit, thick hung,<br /> And blooming
+      fresh, appear'd. &nbsp;E'en as our steps<br /> Turn'd thither, not far off
+      it rose to view.<br /> Beneath it were a multitude, that rais'd<br /> Their
+      hands, and shouted forth I know not What<br /> Unto the boughs; like greedy
+      and fond brats,<br /> That beg, and answer none obtain from him,<br /> Of
+      whom they beg; but more to draw them on,<br /> He at arm's length the
+      object of their wish<br /> Above them holds aloft, and hides it not.<br />
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/24-112.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="24-112th.jpg (43K)" src="images/24-112th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />At length, as undeceiv'd they went their way:<br />
+      And we approach the tree, who vows and tears<br /> Sue to in vain, the
+      mighty tree. &nbsp;"Pass on,<br /> And come not near. &nbsp;Stands higher
+      up the wood,<br /> Whereof Eve tasted, and from it was ta'en<br /> 'this
+      plant." Such sounds from midst the thickets came.<br /> Whence I, with
+      either bard, close to the side<br /> That rose, pass'd forth beyond. &nbsp;"Remember,"
+      next<br /> We heard, "those noblest creatures of the clouds,<br /> How they
+      their twofold bosoms overgorg'd<br /> Oppos'd in fight to Theseus: call to
+      mind<br /> The Hebrews, how effeminate they stoop'd<br /> To ease their
+      thirst; whence Gideon's ranks were thinn'd,<br /> As he to Midian march'd
+      adown the hills."<br /> <br />Thus near one border coasting, still we heard<br />
+      The sins of gluttony, with woe erewhile<br /> Reguerdon'd. &nbsp;Then along
+      the lonely path,<br /> Once more at large, full thousand paces on<br /> We
+      travel'd, each contemplative and mute.<br /> <br />"Why pensive journey thus
+      ye three alone?"<br /> Thus suddenly a voice exclaim'd: whereat<br /> I
+      shook, as doth a scar'd and paltry beast;<br /> Then rais'd my head to look
+      from whence it came.<br /> <br />Was ne'er, in furnace, glass, or metal seen<br />
+      So bright and glowing red, as was the shape<br /> I now beheld. &nbsp;"If
+      ye desire to mount,"<br /> He cried, "here must ye turn. &nbsp;This way he
+      goes,<br /> Who goes in quest of peace." &nbsp;His countenance<br /> Had
+      dazzled me; and to my guides I fac'd<br /> Backward, like one who walks, as
+      sound directs.<br /> <br />As when, to harbinger the dawn, springs up<br />
+      On freshen'd wing the air of May, and breathes<br /> Of fragrance, all
+      impregn'd with herb and flowers,<br /> E'en such a wind I felt upon my
+      front<br /> Blow gently, and the moving of a wing<br /> Perceiv'd, that
+      moving shed ambrosial smell;<br /> And then a voice: "Blessed are they,
+      whom grace<br /> Doth so illume, that appetite in them<br /> Exhaleth no
+      inordinate desire,<br /> Still hung'ring as the rule of temperance wills."
+      <br /><br /> <a name="link25" id="link25"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXV
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> It was an hour, when he who climbs, had need<br /> To walk
+      uncrippled: for the sun had now<br /> To Taurus the meridian circle left,<br />
+      And to the Scorpion left the night. &nbsp;As one<br /> That makes no pause,
+      but presses on his road,<br /> Whate'er betide him, if some urgent need<br />
+      Impel: so enter'd we upon our way,<br /> One before other; for, but singly,
+      none<br /> That steep and narrow scale admits to climb.<br /> <br />E'en as
+      the young stork lifteth up his wing<br /> Through wish to fly, yet ventures
+      not to quit<br /> The nest, and drops it; so in me desire<br /> Of
+      questioning my guide arose, and fell,<br /> Arriving even to the act, that
+      marks<br /> A man prepar'd for speech. &nbsp;Him all our haste<br />
+      Restrain'd not, but thus spake the sire belov'd:<br /> "Fear not to speed
+      the shaft, that on thy lip<br /> Stands trembling for its flight." &nbsp;Encourag'd
+      thus<br /> I straight began: "How there can leanness come,<br /> Where is no
+      want of nourishment to feed?"<br /> <br />"If thou," he answer'd, "hadst
+      remember'd thee,<br /> How Meleager with the wasting brand<br /> Wasted
+      alike, by equal fires consum'd,<br /> This would not trouble thee: and
+      hadst thou thought,<br /> How in the mirror your reflected form<br /> With
+      mimic motion vibrates, what now seems<br /> Hard, had appear'd no harder
+      than the pulp<br /> Of summer fruit mature. &nbsp;But that thy will<br /> In
+      certainty may find its full repose,<br /> Lo Statius here! on him I call,
+      and pray<br /> That he would now be healer of thy wound."<br /> <br />"If in
+      thy presence I unfold to him<br /> The secrets of heaven's vengeance, let
+      me plead<br /> Thine own injunction, to exculpate me."<br /> So Statius
+      answer'd, and forthwith began:<br /> "Attend my words, O son, and in thy
+      mind<br /> Receive them: so shall they be light to clear<br /> The doubt
+      thou offer'st. Blood, concocted well,<br /> Which by the thirsty veins is
+      ne'er imbib'd,<br /> And rests as food superfluous, to be ta'en<br /> From
+      the replenish'd table, in the heart<br /> Derives effectual virtue, that
+      informs<br /> The several human limbs, as being that,<br /> Which passes
+      through the veins itself to make them.<br /> Yet more concocted it
+      descends, where shame<br /> Forbids to mention: and from thence distils<br />
+      In natural vessel on another's blood.<br /> Then each unite together, one
+      dispos'd<br /> T' endure, to act the other, through meet frame<br /> Of its
+      recipient mould: that being reach'd,<br /> It 'gins to work, coagulating
+      first;<br /> Then vivifies what its own substance caus'd<br /> To bear.
+      &nbsp;With animation now indued,<br /> The active virtue (differing from a
+      plant<br /> No further, than that this is on the way<br /> And at its limit
+      that) continues yet<br /> To operate, that now it moves, and feels,<br /> As
+      sea sponge clinging to the rock: and there<br /> Assumes th' organic powers
+      its seed convey'd.<br /> 'This is the period, son! at which the virtue,<br />
+      That from the generating heart proceeds,<br /> Is pliant and expansive; for
+      each limb<br /> Is in the heart by forgeful nature plann'd.<br /> How babe
+      of animal becomes, remains<br /> For thy consid'ring. &nbsp;At this point,
+      more wise,<br /> Than thou hast err'd, making the soul disjoin'd<br /> From
+      passive intellect, because he saw<br /> No organ for the latter's use
+      assign'd.<br /> <br />"Open thy bosom to the truth that comes.<br /> Know
+      soon as in the embryo, to the brain,<br /> Articulation is complete, then
+      turns<br /> The primal Mover with a smile of joy<br /> On such great work of
+      nature, and imbreathes<br /> New spirit replete with virtue, that what here<br />
+      Active it finds, to its own substance draws,<br /> And forms an individual
+      soul, that lives,<br /> And feels, and bends reflective on itself.<br /> And
+      that thou less mayst marvel at the word,<br /> Mark the sun's heat, how
+      that to wine doth change,<br /> Mix'd with the moisture filter'd through
+      the vine.<br /> <br />"When Lachesis hath spun the thread, the soul<br />
+      Takes with her both the human and divine,<br /> Memory, intelligence, and
+      will, in act<br /> Far keener than before, the other powers<br /> Inactive
+      all and mute. &nbsp;No pause allow'd,<br /> In wond'rous sort self-moving,
+      to one strand<br /> Of those, where the departed roam, she falls,<br /> Here
+      learns her destin'd path. &nbsp;Soon as the place<br /> Receives her, round
+      the plastic virtue beams,<br /> Distinct as in the living limbs before:<br />
+      And as the air, when saturate with showers,<br /> The casual beam
+      refracting, decks itself<br /> With many a hue; so here the ambient air<br />
+      Weareth that form, which influence of the soul<br /> Imprints on it; and
+      like the flame, that where<br /> The fire moves, thither follows, so
+      henceforth<br /> The new form on the spirit follows still:<br /> Hence hath
+      it semblance, and is shadow call'd,<br /> With each sense even to the sight
+      endued:<br /> Hence speech is ours, hence laughter, tears, and sighs<br />
+      Which thou mayst oft have witness'd on the mount<br /> Th' obedient shadow
+      fails not to present<br /> Whatever varying passion moves within us.<br />
+      And this the cause of what thou marvel'st at."<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/25-107.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="25-107th.jpg (38K)" src="images/25-107th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />Now the last flexure of our way we reach'd,<br />
+      And to the right hand turning, other care<br /> Awaits us. &nbsp;Here the
+      rocky precipice<br /> Hurls forth redundant flames, and from the rim<br /> A
+      blast upblown, with forcible rebuff<br /> Driveth them back, sequester'd
+      from its bound.<br /> <br />Behoov'd us, one by one, along the side,<br />
+      That border'd on the void, to pass; and I<br /> Fear'd on one hand the
+      fire, on th' other fear'd<br /> Headlong to fall: when thus th' instructor
+      warn'd:<br /> "Strict rein must in this place direct the eyes.<br /> A
+      little swerving and the way is lost."<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a
+      href="images/25-117.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="25-117th.jpg (38K)" src="images/25-117th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />Then from the bosom of the burning mass,<br /> "O
+      God of mercy!" heard I sung; and felt<br /> No less desire to turn. &nbsp;And
+      when I saw<br /> Spirits along the flame proceeding, I<br /> Between their
+      footsteps and mine own was fain<br /> To share by turns my view. &nbsp;At
+      the hymn's close<br /> They shouted loud, "I do not know a man;"<br /> Then
+      in low voice again took up the strain,<br /> Which once more ended, "To the
+      wood," they cried,<br /> "Ran Dian, and drave forth Callisto, stung<br />
+      With Cytherea's poison:" then return'd<br /> Unto their song; then marry a
+      pair extoll'd,<br /> Who liv'd in virtue chastely, and the bands<br /> Of
+      wedded love. &nbsp;Nor from that task, I ween,<br /> Surcease they;
+      whilesoe'er the scorching fire<br /> Enclasps them. &nbsp;Of such skill
+      appliance needs<br /> To medicine the wound, that healeth last. <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/25-119.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="25-119th.jpg (33K)" src="images/25-119th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /><br /> <a
+      name="link26" id="link26"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXVI
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> While singly thus along the rim we walk'd,<br /> Oft the good master
+      warn'd me: "Look thou well.<br /> Avail it that I caution thee." &nbsp;The
+      sun<br /> Now all the western clime irradiate chang'd<br /> From azure tinct
+      to white; and, as I pass'd,<br /> My passing shadow made the umber'd flame<br />
+      Burn ruddier. &nbsp;At so strange a sight I mark'd<br /> That many a spirit
+      marvel'd on his way.<br /> <br />This bred occasion first to speak of me,<br />
+      "He seems," said they, "no insubstantial frame:"<br /> Then to obtain what
+      certainty they might,<br /> Stretch'd towards me, careful not to overpass<br />
+      The burning pale. &nbsp;"O thou, who followest<br /> The others, haply not
+      more slow than they,<br /> But mov'd by rev'rence, answer me, who burn<br />
+      In thirst and fire: nor I alone, but these<br /> All for thine answer do
+      more thirst, than doth<br /> Indian or Aethiop for the cooling stream.<br />
+      Tell us, how is it that thou mak'st thyself<br /> A wall against the sun,
+      as thou not yet<br /> Into th' inextricable toils of death<br /> Hadst
+      enter'd?" &nbsp;Thus spake one, and I had straight<br /> Declar'd me, if
+      attention had not turn'd<br /> To new appearance. &nbsp;Meeting these,
+      there came,<br /> Midway the burning path, a crowd, on whom<br /> Earnestly
+      gazing, from each part I view<br /> The shadows all press forward,
+      sev'rally<br /> Each snatch a hasty kiss, and then away.<br /> E'en so the
+      emmets, 'mid their dusky troops,<br /> Peer closely one at other, to spy
+      out<br /> Their mutual road perchance, and how they thrive.<br /> <br />That
+      friendly greeting parted, ere dispatch<br /> Of the first onward step, from
+      either tribe<br /> Loud clamour rises: those, who newly come,<br /> Shout
+      &nbsp;"Sodom and Gomorrah!" these, "The cow<br /> Pasiphae enter'd, that
+      the beast she woo'd<br /> Might rush unto her luxury." &nbsp;Then as
+      cranes,<br /> That part towards the Riphaean mountains fly,<br /> Part
+      towards the Lybic sands, these to avoid<br /> The ice, and those the sun;
+      so hasteth off<br /> One crowd, advances th' other; and resume<br /> Their
+      first song weeping, and their several shout.<br /> <br />Again drew near my
+      side the very same,<br /> Who had erewhile besought me, and their looks<br />
+      Mark'd eagerness to listen. &nbsp;I, who twice<br /> Their will had noted,
+      spake: "O spirits secure,<br /> Whene'er the time may be, of peaceful end!<br />
+      My limbs, nor crude, nor in mature old age,<br /> Have I left yonder: here
+      they bear me, fed<br /> With blood, and sinew-strung. &nbsp;That I no more<br />
+      May live in blindness, hence I tend aloft.<br /> There is a dame on high,
+      who wind for us<br /> This grace, by which my mortal through your realm<br />
+      I bear. &nbsp;But may your utmost wish soon meet<br /> Such full fruition,
+      that the orb of heaven,<br /> Fullest of love, and of most ample space,<br />
+      Receive you, as ye tell (upon my page<br /> Henceforth to stand recorded)
+      who ye are,<br /> And what this multitude, that at your backs<br /> Have
+      past behind us." &nbsp;As one, mountain-bred,<br /> Rugged and clownish, if
+      some city's walls<br /> He chance to enter, round him stares agape,<br />
+      Confounded and struck dumb; e'en such appear'd<br /> Each spirit. &nbsp;But
+      when rid of that amaze,<br /> (Not long the inmate of a noble heart)<br />
+      He, who before had question'd, thus resum'd:<br /> "O blessed, who, for
+      death preparing, tak'st<br /> Experience of our limits, in thy bark!<br />
+      Their crime, who not with us proceed, was that,<br /> For which, as he did
+      triumph, Caesar heard<br /> The snout of 'queen,' to taunt him. &nbsp;Hence
+      their cry<br /> Of 'Sodom,' as they parted, to rebuke<br /> Themselves, and
+      aid the burning by their shame.<br /> Our sinning was Hermaphrodite: but
+      we,<br /> Because the law of human kind we broke,<br /> Following like
+      beasts our vile concupiscence,<br /> Hence parting from them, to our own
+      disgrace<br /> Record the name of her, by whom the beast<br /> In bestial
+      tire was acted. &nbsp;Now our deeds<br /> Thou know'st, and how we sinn'd.
+      &nbsp;If thou by name<br /> Wouldst haply know us, time permits not now<br />
+      To tell so much, nor can I. &nbsp;Of myself<br /> Learn what thou wishest.
+      &nbsp;Guinicelli I,<br /> Who having truly sorrow'd ere my last,<br />
+      Already cleanse me." &nbsp;With such pious joy,<br /> As the two sons upon
+      their mother gaz'd<br /> From sad Lycurgus rescu'd, such my joy<br /> (Save
+      that I more represt it) when I heard<br /> From his own lips the name of
+      him pronounc'd,<br /> Who was a father to me, and to those<br /> My betters,
+      who have ever us'd the sweet<br /> And pleasant rhymes of love. &nbsp;So
+      nought I heard<br /> Nor spake, but long time thoughtfully I went,<br />
+      Gazing on him; and, only for the fire,<br /> Approach'd not nearer. &nbsp;When
+      my eyes were fed<br /> By looking on him, with such solemn pledge,<br /> As
+      forces credence, I devoted me<br /> Unto his service wholly. &nbsp;In reply<br />
+      He thus bespake me: "What from thee I hear<br /> Is grav'd so deeply on my
+      mind, the waves<br /> Of Lethe shall not wash it off, nor make<br /> A whit
+      less lively. &nbsp;But as now thy oath<br /> Has seal'd the truth, declare
+      what cause impels<br /> That love, which both thy looks and speech bewray."<br />
+      <br />"Those dulcet lays," I answer'd, "which, as long<br /> As of our
+      tongue the beauty does not fade,<br /> Shall make us love the very ink that
+      trac'd them."<br /> <br />"Brother!" &nbsp;he cried, and pointed at a shade<br />
+      Before him, "there is one, whose mother speech<br /> Doth owe to him a
+      fairer ornament.<br /> He in love ditties and the tales of prose<br />
+      Without a rival stands, and lets the fools<br /> Talk on, who think the
+      songster of Limoges<br /> O'ertops him. &nbsp;Rumour and the popular voice<br />
+      They look to more than truth, and so confirm<br /> Opinion, ere by art or
+      reason taught.<br /> Thus many of the elder time cried up<br /> Guittone,
+      giving him the prize, till truth<br /> By strength of numbers vanquish'd.
+      &nbsp;If thou own<br /> So ample privilege, as to have gain'd<br /> Free
+      entrance to the cloister, whereof Christ<br /> Is Abbot of the college, say
+      to him<br /> One paternoster for me, far as needs<br /> For dwellers in this
+      world, where power to sin<br /> No longer tempts us." &nbsp;Haply to make
+      way<br /> For one, that follow'd next, when that was said,<br /> He vanish'd
+      through the fire, as through the wave<br /> A fish, that glances diving to
+      the deep.<br /> <br />I, to the spirit he had shown me, drew<br /> A little
+      onward, and besought his name,<br /> For which my heart, I said, kept
+      gracious room.<br /> He frankly thus began: "Thy courtesy<br /> So wins on
+      me, I have nor power nor will<br /> To hide me. &nbsp;I am Arnault; and
+      with songs,<br /> Sorely lamenting for my folly past,<br /> Thorough this
+      ford of fire I wade, and see<br /> The day, I hope for, smiling in my view.<br />
+      I pray ye by the worth that guides ye up<br /> Unto the summit of the
+      scale, in time<br /> Remember ye my suff'rings." &nbsp;With such words<br />
+      He disappear'd in the refining flame. <br /><br /> <a name="link27"
+      id="link27"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXVII
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Now was the sun so station'd, as when first<br /> His early radiance
+      quivers on the heights,<br /> Where stream'd his Maker's blood, while Libra
+      hangs<br /> Above Hesperian Ebro, and new fires<br /> Meridian flash on
+      Ganges' yellow tide.<br /> <br />So day was sinking, when the' angel of God<br />
+      Appear'd before us. &nbsp;Joy was in his mien.<br /> Forth of the flame he
+      stood upon the brink,<br /> And with a voice, whose lively clearness far<br />
+      Surpass'd our human, "Blessed are the pure<br /> In heart," he Sang: then
+      near him as we came,<br /> "Go ye not further, holy spirits!" &nbsp;he
+      cried,<br /> "Ere the fire pierce you: enter in; and list<br /> Attentive to
+      the song ye hear from thence."<br /> <br />I, when I heard his saying, was
+      as one<br /> Laid in the grave. &nbsp;My hands together clasp'd,<br /> And
+      upward stretching, on the fire I look'd,<br /> And busy fancy conjur'd up
+      the forms<br /> Erewhile beheld alive consum'd in flames.<br /> <br />Th'
+      escorting spirits turn'd with gentle looks<br /> Toward me, and the Mantuan
+      spake: "My son,<br /> Here torment thou mayst feel, but canst not death.<br />
+      Remember thee, remember thee, if I<br /> Safe e'en on Geryon brought thee:
+      now I come<br /> More near to God, wilt thou not trust me now?<br /> Of this
+      be sure: though in its womb that flame<br /> A thousand years contain'd
+      thee, from thy head<br /> No hair should perish. &nbsp;If thou doubt my
+      truth,<br /> Approach, and with thy hands thy vesture's hem<br /> Stretch
+      forth, and for thyself confirm belief.<br /> Lay now all fear, O lay all
+      fear aside.<br /> Turn hither, and come onward undismay'd."<br /> I still,
+      though conscience urg'd' no step advanc'd.<br /> <br />When still he saw me
+      fix'd and obstinate,<br /> Somewhat disturb'd he cried: "Mark now, my son,<br />
+      From Beatrice thou art by this wall<br /> Divided." &nbsp;As at Thisbe's
+      name the eye<br /> Of Pyramus was open'd (when life ebb'd<br /> Fast from
+      his veins), and took one parting glance,<br /> While vermeil dyed the
+      mulberry; thus I turn'd<br /> To my sage guide, relenting, when I heard<br />
+      The name, that springs forever in my breast.<br /> <br />He shook his
+      forehead; and, "How long," he said,<br /> "Linger we now?" &nbsp;then
+      smil'd, as one would smile<br /> Upon a child, that eyes the fruit and
+      yields.<br /> Into the fire before me then he walk'd;<br /> And Statius, who
+      erewhile no little space<br /> Had parted us, he pray'd to come behind.<br />
+      <br />I would have cast me into molten glass<br /> To cool me, when I
+      enter'd; so intense<br /> Rag'd the conflagrant mass. &nbsp;The sire
+      belov'd,<br /> To comfort me, as he proceeded, still<br /> Of Beatrice
+      talk'd. &nbsp;"Her eyes," saith he,<br /> "E'en now I seem to view." &nbsp;From
+      the other side<br /> A voice, that sang, did guide us, and the voice<br />
+      Following, with heedful ear, we issued forth,<br /> There where the path
+      led upward. &nbsp;"Come," we heard,<br /> "Come, blessed of my Father."
+      &nbsp;Such the sounds,<br /> That hail'd us from within a light, which
+      shone<br /> So radiant, I could not endure the view.<br /> "The sun," it
+      added, "hastes: and evening comes.<br /> Delay not: ere the western sky is
+      hung<br /> With blackness, strive ye for the pass." &nbsp;Our way<br />
+      Upright within the rock arose, and fac'd<br /> Such part of heav'n, that
+      from before my steps<br /> The beams were shrouded of the sinking sun.<br />
+      <br />Nor many stairs were overpass, when now<br /> By fading of the shadow
+      we perceiv'd<br /> The sun behind us couch'd: and ere one face<br /> Of
+      darkness o'er its measureless expanse<br /> Involv'd th' horizon, and the
+      night her lot<br /> Held individual, each of us had made<br /> A stair his
+      pallet: not that will, but power,<br /> Had fail'd us, by the nature of
+      that mount<br /> Forbidden further travel. &nbsp;As the goats,<br /> That
+      late have skipp'd and wanton'd rapidly<br /> Upon the craggy cliffs, ere
+      they had ta'en<br /> Their supper on the herb, now silent lie<br /> And
+      ruminate beneath the umbrage brown,<br /> While noonday rages; and the
+      goatherd leans<br /> Upon his staff, and leaning watches them:<br /> And as
+      the swain, that lodges out all night<br /> In quiet by his flock, lest
+      beast of prey<br /> Disperse them; even so all three abode,<br /> I as a
+      goat and as the shepherds they,<br /> Close pent on either side by shelving
+      rock.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/27-97.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL
+      SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="27-97th.jpg (40K)" src="images/27-97th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />A little glimpse of sky was seen above;<br /> Yet
+      by that little I beheld the stars<br /> In magnitude and rustle shining
+      forth<br /> With more than wonted glory. &nbsp;As I lay,<br /> Gazing on
+      them, and in that fit of musing,<br /> Sleep overcame me, sleep, that
+      bringeth oft<br /> Tidings of future hap. &nbsp;About the hour,<br /> As I
+      believe, when Venus from the east<br /> First lighten'd on the mountain,
+      she whose orb<br /> Seems always glowing with the fire of love,<br /> A lady
+      young and beautiful, I dream'd,<br /> Was passing o'er a lea; and, as she
+      came,<br /> Methought I saw her ever and anon<br /> Bending to cull the
+      flowers; and thus she sang:<br /> "Know ye, whoever of my name would ask,<br />
+      That I am Leah: for my brow to weave<br /> A garland, these fair hands
+      unwearied ply.<br /> To please me at the crystal mirror, here<br /> I deck
+      me. &nbsp;But my sister Rachel, she<br /> Before her glass abides the
+      livelong day,<br /> Her radiant eyes beholding, charm'd no less,<br /> Than
+      I with this delightful task. &nbsp;Her joy<br /> In contemplation, as in
+      labour mine."<br /> <br />And now as glimm'ring dawn appear'd, that breaks<br />
+      More welcome to the pilgrim still, as he<br /> Sojourns less distant on his
+      homeward way,<br /> Darkness from all sides fled, and with it fled<br /> My
+      slumber; whence I rose and saw my guide<br /> Already risen. &nbsp;"That
+      delicious fruit,<br /> Which through so many a branch the zealous care<br />
+      Of mortals roams in quest of, shall this day<br /> Appease thy hunger."
+      &nbsp;Such the words I heard<br /> From Virgil's lip; and never greeting
+      heard<br /> So pleasant as the sounds. &nbsp;Within me straight<br /> Desire
+      so grew upon desire to mount,<br /> Thenceforward at each step I felt the
+      wings<br /> Increasing for my flight. &nbsp;When we had run<br /> O'er all
+      the ladder to its topmost round,<br /> As there we stood, on me the Mantuan
+      fix'd<br /> His eyes, and thus he spake: "Both fires, my son,<br /> The
+      temporal and eternal, thou hast seen,<br /> And art arriv'd, where of
+      itself my ken<br /> No further reaches. &nbsp;I with skill and art<br />
+      Thus far have drawn thee. &nbsp;Now thy pleasure take<br /> For guide.
+      &nbsp;Thou hast o'ercome the steeper way,<br /> O'ercome the straighter.
+      &nbsp;Lo! the sun, that darts<br /> His beam upon thy forehead! lo! the
+      herb,<br /> The arboreta and flowers, which of itself<br /> This land pours
+      forth profuse! Till those bright eyes<br /> With gladness come, which,
+      weeping, made me haste<br /> To succour thee, thou mayst or seat thee down,<br />
+      Or wander where thou wilt. &nbsp;Expect no more<br /> Sanction of warning
+      voice or sign from me,<br /> Free of thy own arbitrement to choose,<br />
+      Discreet, judicious. &nbsp;To distrust thy sense<br /> Were henceforth
+      error. &nbsp;I invest thee then<br /> With crown and mitre, sovereign o'er
+      thyself." <br /><br /> <a name="link28" id="link28"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXVIII
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Through that celestial forest, whose thick shade<br /> With lively
+      greenness the new-springing day<br /> Attemper'd, eager now to roam, and
+      search<br /> Its limits round, forthwith I left the bank,<br /> Along the
+      champain leisurely my way<br /> Pursuing, o'er the ground, that on all
+      sides<br /> Delicious odour breath'd. &nbsp;A pleasant air,<br /> That
+      intermitted never, never veer'd,<br /> Smote on my temples, gently, as a
+      wind<br /> Of softest influence: at which the sprays,<br /> Obedient all,
+      lean'd trembling to that part<br /> Where first the holy mountain casts his
+      shade,<br /> Yet were not so disorder'd, but that still<br /> Upon their top
+      the feather'd quiristers<br /> Applied their wonted art, and with full joy<br />
+      Welcom'd those hours of prime, and warbled shrill<br /> Amid the leaves,
+      that to their jocund lays<br /> inept tenor; even as from branch to branch,<br />
+      Along the piney forests on the shore<br /> Of Chiassi, rolls the gath'ring
+      melody,<br /> When Eolus hath from his cavern loos'd<br /> The dripping
+      south. &nbsp;Already had my steps,<br /> Though slow, so far into that
+      ancient wood<br /> Transported me, I could not ken the place<br /> Where I
+      had enter'd, when behold! my path<br /> Was bounded by a rill, which to the
+      left<br /> With little rippling waters bent the grass,<br /> That issued
+      from its brink. &nbsp;On earth no wave<br /> How clean soe'er, that would
+      not seem to have<br /> Some mixture in itself, compar'd with this,<br />
+      Transpicuous, clear; yet darkly on it roll'd,<br /> Darkly beneath
+      perpetual gloom, which ne'er<br /> Admits or sun or moon light there to
+      shine.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/28-22.jpg">ENLARGE TO
+      FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="28-22th.jpg (30K)" src="images/28-22th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />My feet advanc'd not; but my wond'ring eyes<br />
+      Pass'd onward, o'er the streamlet, to survey<br /> The tender May-bloom,
+      flush'd through many a hue,<br /> In prodigal variety: and there,<br /> As
+      object, rising suddenly to view,<br /> That from our bosom every thought
+      beside<br /> With the rare marvel chases, I beheld<br /> A lady all alone,
+      who, singing, went,<br /> And culling flower from flower, wherewith her way<br />
+      Was all o'er painted. &nbsp;"Lady beautiful!<br /> Thou, who (if looks,
+      that use to speak the heart,<br /> Are worthy of our trust), with love's
+      own beam<br /> Dost warm thee," thus to her my speech I fram'd:<br /> "Ah!
+      please thee hither towards the streamlet bend<br /> Thy steps so near, that
+      I may list thy song.<br /> Beholding thee and this fair place, methinks,<br />
+      I call to mind where wander'd and how look'd<br /> Proserpine, in that
+      season, when her child<br /> The mother lost, and she the bloomy spring."<br />
+      <br />As when a lady, turning in the dance,<br /> Doth foot it featly, and
+      advances scarce<br /> One step before the other to the ground;<br /> Over
+      the yellow and vermilion flowers<br /> Thus turn'd she at my suit, most
+      maiden-like,<br /> Valing her sober eyes, and came so near,<br /> That I
+      distinctly caught the dulcet sound.<br /> Arriving where the limped waters
+      now<br /> Lav'd the green sward, her eyes she deign'd to raise,<br /> That
+      shot such splendour on me, as I ween<br /> Ne'er glanced from Cytherea's,
+      when her son<br /> Had sped his keenest weapon to her heart.<br /> Upon the
+      opposite bank she stood and smil'd<br /> through her graceful fingers
+      shifted still<br /> The intermingling dyes, which without seed<br /> That
+      lofty land unbosoms. &nbsp;By the stream<br /> Three paces only were we
+      sunder'd: yet<br /> The Hellespont, where Xerxes pass'd it o'er,<br /> (A
+      curb for ever to the pride of man)<br /> Was by Leander not more hateful
+      held<br /> For floating, with inhospitable wave<br /> 'Twixt Sestus and
+      Abydos, than by me<br /> That flood, because it gave no passage thence.<br />
+      <br />"Strangers ye come, and haply in this place,<br /> That cradled human
+      nature in its birth,<br /> Wond'ring, ye not without suspicion view<br /> My
+      smiles: but that sweet strain of psalmody,<br /> 'Thou, Lord! hast made me
+      glad,' will give ye light,<br /> Which may uncloud your minds. &nbsp;And
+      thou, who stand'st<br /> The foremost, and didst make thy suit to me,<br />
+      Say if aught else thou wish to hear: for I<br /> Came prompt to answer
+      every doubt of thine."<br /> <br />She spake; and I replied: "I know not how<br />
+      To reconcile this wave and rustling sound<br /> Of forest leaves, with what
+      I late have heard<br /> Of opposite report." &nbsp;She answering thus:<br />
+      "I will unfold the cause, whence that proceeds,<br /> Which makes thee
+      wonder; and so purge the cloud<br /> That hath enwraps thee. &nbsp;The
+      First Good, whose joy<br /> Is only in himself, created man<br /> For
+      happiness, and gave this goodly place,<br /> His pledge and earnest of
+      eternal peace.<br /> Favour'd thus highly, through his own defect<br /> He
+      fell, and here made short sojourn; he fell,<br /> And, for the bitterness
+      of sorrow, chang'd<br /> Laughter unblam'd and ever-new delight.<br /> That
+      vapours none, exhal'd from earth beneath,<br /> Or from the waters (which,
+      wherever heat<br /> Attracts them, follow), might ascend thus far<br /> To
+      vex man's peaceful state, this mountain rose<br /> So high toward the
+      heav'n, nor fears the rage<br /> Of elements contending, from that part<br />
+      Exempted, where the gate his limit bars.<br /> Because the circumambient
+      air throughout<br /> With its first impulse circles still, unless<br />
+      Aught interpose to cheek or thwart its course;<br /> Upon the summit, which
+      on every side<br /> To visitation of th' impassive air<br /> Is open, doth
+      that motion strike, and makes<br /> Beneath its sway th' umbrageous wood
+      resound:<br /> And in the shaken plant such power resides,<br /> That it
+      impregnates with its efficacy<br /> The voyaging breeze, upon whose subtle
+      plume<br /> That wafted flies abroad; and th' other land<br /> Receiving (as
+      't is worthy in itself,<br /> Or in the clime, that warms it), doth
+      conceive,<br /> And from its womb produces many a tree<br /> Of various
+      virtue. &nbsp;This when thou hast heard,<br /> The marvel ceases, if in
+      yonder earth<br /> Some plant without apparent seed be found<br /> To fix
+      its fibrous stem. &nbsp;And further learn,<br /> That with prolific foison
+      of all seeds,<br /> This holy plain is fill'd, and in itself<br /> Bears
+      fruit that ne'er was pluck'd on other soil.<br /> &nbsp;The water, thou
+      behold'st, springs not from vein,<br /> As stream, that intermittently
+      repairs<br /> And spends his pulse of life, but issues forth<br /> From
+      fountain, solid, undecaying, sure;<br /> And by the will omnific, full
+      supply<br /> Feeds whatsoe'er On either side it pours;<br /> On this
+      devolv'd with power to take away<br /> Remembrance of offence, on that to
+      bring<br /> Remembrance back of every good deed done.<br /> From whence its
+      name of Lethe on this part;<br /> On th' other Eunoe: both of which must
+      first<br /> Be tasted ere it work; the last exceeding<br /> All flavours
+      else. &nbsp;Albeit thy thirst may now<br /> Be well contented, if I here
+      break off,<br /> No more revealing: yet a corollary<br /> I freely give
+      beside: nor deem my words<br /> Less grateful to thee, if they somewhat
+      pass<br /> The stretch of promise. &nbsp;They, whose verse of yore<br /> The
+      golden age recorded and its bliss,<br /> On the Parnassian mountain, of
+      this place<br /> Perhaps had dream'd. &nbsp;Here was man guiltless, here<br />
+      Perpetual spring and every fruit, and this<br /> The far-fam'd nectar."
+      &nbsp;Turning to the bards,<br /> When she had ceas'd, I noted in their
+      looks<br /> A smile at her conclusion; then my face<br /> Again directed to
+      the lovely dame. <br /><br /> <a name="link29" id="link29"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXIX
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Singing, as if enamour'd, she resum'd<br /> And clos'd the song, with
+      "Blessed they whose sins<br /> Are cover'd." &nbsp;Like the wood-nymphs
+      then, that tripp'd<br /> Singly across the sylvan shadows, one<br /> Eager
+      to view and one to 'scape the sun,<br /> So mov'd she on, against the
+      current, up<br /> The verdant rivage. &nbsp;I, her mincing step<br />
+      Observing, with as tardy step pursued.<br /> <br />Between us not an hundred
+      paces trod,<br /> The bank, on each side bending equally,<br /> Gave me to
+      face the orient. &nbsp;Nor our way<br /> Far onward brought us, when to me
+      at once<br /> She turn'd, and cried: "My brother! look and hearken."<br />
+      And lo! a sudden lustre ran across<br /> Through the great forest on all
+      parts, so bright<br /> I doubted whether lightning were abroad;<br /> But
+      that expiring ever in the spleen,<br /> That doth unfold it, and this
+      during still<br /> And waxing still in splendor, made me question<br /> What
+      it might be: and a sweet melody<br /> Ran through the luminous air. &nbsp;Then
+      did I chide<br /> With warrantable zeal the hardihood<br /> Of our first
+      parent, for that there were earth<br /> Stood in obedience to the heav'ns,
+      she only,<br /> Woman, the creature of an hour, endur'd not<br /> Restraint
+      of any veil: which had she borne<br /> Devoutly, joys, ineffable as these,<br />
+      Had from the first, and long time since, been mine.<br /> <br />While
+      through that wilderness of primy sweets<br /> That never fade, suspense I
+      walk'd, and yet<br /> Expectant of beatitude more high,<br /> Before us,
+      like a blazing fire, the air<br /> Under the green boughs glow'd; and, for
+      a song,<br /> Distinct the sound of melody was heard.<br /> <br />O ye thrice
+      holy virgins! for your sakes<br /> If e'er I suffer'd hunger, cold and
+      watching,<br /> Occasion calls on me to crave your bounty.<br /> Now through
+      my breast let Helicon his stream<br /> Pour copious; and Urania with her
+      choir<br /> Arise to aid me: while the verse unfolds<br /> Things that do
+      almost mock the grasp of thought.<br /> <br />Onward a space, what seem'd
+      seven trees of gold,<br /> The intervening distance to mine eye<br />
+      Falsely presented; but when I was come<br /> So near them, that no
+      lineament was lost<br /> Of those, with which a doubtful object, seen<br />
+      Remotely, plays on the misdeeming sense,<br /> Then did the faculty, that
+      ministers<br /> Discourse to reason, these for tapers of gold<br />
+      Distinguish, and it th' singing trace the sound<br /> "Hosanna." &nbsp;Above,
+      their beauteous garniture<br /> Flam'd with more ample lustre, than the
+      moon<br /> Through cloudless sky at midnight in her full.<br /> <br />I
+      turn'd me full of wonder to my guide;<br /> And he did answer with a
+      countenance<br /> Charg'd with no less amazement: whence my view<br />
+      Reverted to those lofty things, which came<br /> So slowly moving towards
+      us, that the bride<br /> Would have outstript them on her bridal day.<br />
+      <br />The lady called aloud: "Why thus yet burns<br /> Affection in thee for
+      these living, lights,<br /> And dost not look on that which follows them?"<br />
+      <br />I straightway mark'd a tribe behind them walk,<br /> As if attendant
+      on their leaders, cloth'd<br /> With raiment of such whiteness, as on earth<br />
+      Was never. &nbsp;On my left, the wat'ry gleam<br /> Borrow'd, and gave me
+      back, when there I look'd.<br /> As in a mirror, my left side portray'd.<br />
+      <br />When I had chosen on the river's edge<br /> Such station, that the
+      distance of the stream<br /> Alone did separate me; there I stay'd<br /> My
+      steps for clearer prospect, and beheld<br /> The flames go onward, leaving,
+      as they went,<br /> The air behind them painted as with trail<br /> Of
+      liveliest pencils! so distinct were mark'd<br /> All those sev'n listed
+      colours, whence the sun<br /> Maketh his bow, and Cynthia her zone.<br />
+      These streaming gonfalons did flow beyond<br /> My vision; and ten paces,
+      as I guess,<br /> Parted the outermost. &nbsp;Beneath a sky<br /> So
+      beautiful, came foul and-twenty elders,<br /> By two and two, with
+      flower-de-luces crown'd.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a
+      href="images/29-80.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="29-80th.jpg (36K)" src="images/29-80th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> All sang one song: "Blessed be thou among<br /> The
+      daughters of Adam! and thy loveliness<br /> Blessed for ever!" &nbsp;After
+      that the flowers,<br /> And the fresh herblets, on the opposite brink,<br />
+      Were free from that elected race; as light<br /> In heav'n doth second
+      light, came after them<br /> Four animals, each crown'd with verdurous
+      leaf.<br /> With six wings each was plum'd, the plumage full<br /> Of eyes,
+      and th' eyes of Argus would be such,<br /> Were they endued with life.
+      &nbsp;Reader, more rhymes<br /> Will not waste in shadowing forth their
+      form:<br /> For other need no straitens, that in this<br /> I may not give
+      my bounty room. &nbsp;But read<br /> Ezekiel; for he paints them, from the
+      north<br /> How he beheld them come by Chebar's flood,<br /> In whirlwind,
+      cloud and fire; and even such<br /> As thou shalt find them character'd by
+      him,<br /> Here were they; save as to the pennons; there,<br /> From him
+      departing, John accords with me.<br /> <br />The space, surrounded by the
+      four, enclos'd<br /> A car triumphal: on two wheels it came<br /> Drawn at a
+      Gryphon's neck; and he above<br /> Stretch'd either wing uplifted, 'tween
+      the midst<br /> And the three listed hues, on each side three;<br /> So that
+      the wings did cleave or injure none;<br /> And out of sight they rose.
+      &nbsp;The members, far<br /> As he was bird, were golden; white the rest<br />
+      With vermeil intervein'd. &nbsp;So beautiful<br /> A car in Rome ne'er
+      grac'd Augustus pomp,<br /> Or Africanus': e'en the sun's itself<br /> Were
+      poor to this, that chariot of the sun<br /> Erroneous, which in blazing
+      ruin fell<br /> At Tellus' pray'r devout, by the just doom<br /> Mysterious
+      of all-seeing Jove. &nbsp;Three nymphs<br /> at the right wheel, came
+      circling in smooth dance;<br /> The one so ruddy, that her form had scarce<br />
+      Been known within a furnace of clear flame:<br /> The next did look, as if
+      the flesh and bones<br /> Were emerald: snow new-fallen seem'd the third.<br />
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/29-118.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="29-118th.jpg (39K)" src="images/29-118th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> Now seem'd the white to lead, the ruddy now;<br /> And
+      from her song who led, the others took<br /> Their treasure, swift or slow.
+      &nbsp;At th' other wheel,<br /> A band quaternion, each in purple clad,<br />
+      Advanc'd with festal step, as of them one<br /> The rest conducted, one,
+      upon whose front<br /> Three eyes were seen. &nbsp;In rear of all this
+      group,<br /> Two old men I beheld, dissimilar<br /> In raiment, but in port
+      and gesture like,<br /> Solid and mainly grave; of whom the one<br /> Did
+      show himself some favour'd counsellor<br /> Of the great Coan, him, whom
+      nature made<br /> To serve the costliest creature of her tribe.<br /> His
+      fellow mark'd an opposite intent,<br /> Bearing a sword, whose glitterance
+      and keen edge,<br /> E'en as I view'd it with the flood between,<br />
+      Appall'd me. &nbsp;Next four others I beheld,<br /> Of humble seeming: and,
+      behind them all,<br /> One single old man, sleeping, as he came,<br /> With
+      a shrewd visage. &nbsp;And these seven, each<br /> Like the first troop
+      were habited, but wore<br /> No braid of lilies on their temples wreath'd.<br />
+      Rather with roses and each vermeil flower,<br /> A sight, but little
+      distant, might have sworn,<br /> That they were all on fire above their
+      brow.<br /> <br />Whenas the car was o'er against me, straight.<br /> Was
+      heard a thund'ring, at whose voice it seem'd<br /> The chosen multitude
+      were stay'd; for there,<br /> With the first ensigns, made they solemn
+      halt. <br /><br /> <a name="link30" id="link30"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXX
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Soon as the polar light, which never knows<br /> Setting nor rising,
+      nor the shadowy veil<br /> Of other cloud than sin, fair ornament<br /> Of
+      the first heav'n, to duty each one there<br /> Safely convoying, as that
+      lower doth<br /> The steersman to his port, stood firmly fix'd;<br />
+      Forthwith the saintly tribe, who in the van<br /> Between the Gryphon and
+      its radiance came,<br /> Did turn them to the car, as to their rest:<br />
+      And one, as if commission'd from above,<br /> In holy chant thrice shorted
+      forth aloud:<br /> "Come, spouse, from Libanus!" and all the rest<br /> Took
+      up the song&mdash;At the last audit so<br /> The blest shall rise, from
+      forth his cavern each<br /> Uplifting lightly his new-vested flesh,<br />
+      As, on the sacred litter, at the voice<br /> Authoritative of that elder,
+      sprang<br /> A hundred ministers and messengers<br /> Of life eternal.
+      &nbsp;"Blessed thou! who com'st!"<br /> And, "O," they cried, "from full
+      hands scatter ye<br /> Unwith'ring lilies;" and, so saying, cast<br />
+      Flowers over head and round them on all sides.<br /> <br />I have beheld,
+      ere now, at break of day,<br /> The eastern clime all roseate, and the sky<br />
+      Oppos'd, one deep and beautiful serene,<br /> And the sun's face so shaded,
+      and with mists<br /> Attemper'd at lids rising, that the eye<br /> Long
+      while endur'd the sight: thus in a cloud<br /> Of flowers, that from those
+      hands angelic rose,<br /> And down, within and outside of the car,<br />
+      Fell showering, in white veil with olive wreath'd,<br /> A virgin in my
+      view appear'd, beneath<br /> Green mantle, rob'd in hue of living flame:<br />
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/30-32.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="30-32th.jpg (34K)" src="images/30-32th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> And o'er my Spirit, that in former days<br /> Within
+      her presence had abode so long,<br /> No shudd'ring terror crept. &nbsp;Mine
+      eyes no more<br /> Had knowledge of her; yet there mov'd from her<br /> A
+      hidden virtue, at whose touch awak'd,<br /> The power of ancient love was
+      strong within me.<br /> <br />No sooner on my vision streaming, smote<br />
+      The heav'nly influence, which years past, and e'en<br /> In childhood,
+      thrill'd me, than towards Virgil I<br /> Turn'd me to leftward, panting,
+      like a babe,<br /> That flees for refuge to his mother's breast,<br /> If
+      aught have terrified or work'd him woe:<br /> And would have cried: "There
+      is no dram of blood,<br /> That doth not quiver in me. &nbsp;The old flame<br />
+      Throws out clear tokens of reviving fire:"<br /> But Virgil had bereav'd us
+      of himself,<br /> Virgil, my best-lov'd father; Virgil, he<br /> To whom I
+      gave me up for safety: nor,<br /> All, our prime mother lost, avail'd to
+      save<br /> My undew'd cheeks from blur of soiling tears.<br /> <br />"Dante,
+      weep not, that Virgil leaves thee: nay,<br /> Weep thou not yet: behooves
+      thee feel the edge<br /> Of other sword, and thou shalt weep for that."<br />
+      <br />As to the prow or stern, some admiral<br /> Paces the deck,
+      inspiriting his crew,<br /> When 'mid the sail-yards all hands ply aloof;<br />
+      Thus on the left side of the car I saw,<br /> (Turning me at the sound of
+      mine own name,<br /> Which here I am compell'd to register)<br /> The virgin
+      station'd, who before appeared<br /> Veil'd in that festive shower
+      angelical.<br /> <br />Towards me, across the stream, she bent her eyes;<br />
+      Though from her brow the veil descending, bound<br /> With foliage of
+      Minerva, suffer'd not<br /> That I beheld her clearly; then with act<br />
+      Full royal, still insulting o'er her thrall,<br /> Added, as one, who
+      speaking keepeth back<br /> The bitterest saying, to conclude the speech:<br />
+      "Observe me well. &nbsp;I am, in sooth, I am<br /> Beatrice. &nbsp;What!
+      and hast thou deign'd at last<br /> Approach the mountain? &nbsp;knewest
+      not, O man!<br /> Thy happiness is whole?" &nbsp;Down fell mine eyes<br />
+      On the clear fount, but there, myself espying,<br /> Recoil'd, and sought
+      the greensward: such a weight<br /> Of shame was on my forehead. &nbsp;With
+      a mien<br /> Of that stern majesty, which doth surround<br /> mother's
+      presence to her awe-struck child,<br /> She look'd; a flavour of such
+      bitterness<br /> Was mingled in her pity. &nbsp;There her words<br /> Brake
+      off, and suddenly the angels sang:<br /> "In thee, O gracious Lord, my hope
+      hath been:"<br /> But went no farther than, "Thou Lord, hast set<br /> My
+      feet in ample room." &nbsp;As snow, that lies<br /> Amidst the living
+      rafters on the back<br /> Of Italy congeal'd when drifted high<br /> And
+      closely pil'd by rough Sclavonian blasts,<br /> Breathe but the land
+      whereon no shadow falls,<br /> And straightway melting it distils away,<br />
+      Like a fire-wasted taper: thus was I,<br /> Without a sigh or tear, or ever
+      these<br /> Did sing, that with the chiming of heav'n's sphere,<br /> Still
+      in their warbling chime: but when the strain<br /> Of dulcet symphony,
+      express'd for me<br /> Their soft compassion, more than could the words<br />
+      "Virgin, why so consum'st him?" &nbsp;then the ice,<br /> Congeal'd about
+      my bosom, turn'd itself<br /> To spirit and water, and with anguish forth<br />
+      Gush'd through the lips and eyelids from the heart.<br /> <br />Upon the
+      chariot's right edge still she stood,<br /> Immovable, and thus address'd
+      her words<br /> To those bright semblances with pity touch'd:<br /> "Ye in
+      th' eternal day your vigils keep,<br /> So that nor night nor slumber, with
+      close stealth,<br /> Conveys from you a single step in all<br /> The goings
+      on of life: thence with more heed<br /> I shape mine answer, for his ear
+      intended,<br /> Who there stands weeping, that the sorrow now<br /> May
+      equal the transgression. &nbsp;Not alone<br /> Through operation of the
+      mighty orbs,<br /> That mark each seed to some predestin'd aim,<br /> As
+      with aspect or fortunate or ill<br /> The constellations meet, but through
+      benign<br /> Largess of heav'nly graces, which rain down<br /> From such a
+      height, as mocks our vision, this man<br /> Was in the freshness of his
+      being, such,<br /> So gifted virtually, that in him<br /> All better habits
+      wond'rously had thriv'd.<br /> The more of kindly strength is in the soil,<br />
+      So much doth evil seed and lack of culture<br /> Mar it the more, and make
+      it run to wildness.<br /> These looks sometime upheld him; for I show'd<br />
+      My youthful eyes, and led him by their light<br /> In upright walking.
+      &nbsp;Soon as I had reach'd<br /> The threshold of my second age, and
+      chang'd<br /> My mortal for immortal, then he left me,<br /> And gave
+      himself to others. &nbsp;When from flesh<br /> To spirit I had risen, and
+      increase<br /> Of beauty and of virtue circled me,<br /> I was less dear to
+      him, and valued less.<br /> His steps were turn'd into deceitful ways,<br />
+      Following false images of good, that make<br /> No promise perfect. &nbsp;Nor
+      avail'd me aught<br /> To sue for inspirations, with the which,<br /> I,
+      both in dreams of night, and otherwise,<br /> Did call him back; of them so
+      little reck'd him,<br /> Such depth he fell, that all device was short<br />
+      Of his preserving, save that he should view<br /> The children of
+      perdition. &nbsp;To this end<br /> I visited the purlieus of the dead:<br />
+      And one, who hath conducted him thus high,<br /> Receiv'd my supplications
+      urg'd with weeping.<br /> It were a breaking of God's high decree,<br /> If
+      Lethe should be past, and such food tasted<br /> Without the cost of some
+      repentant tear." <br /><br /> <a name="link31" id="link31"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXXI
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> "O Thou!" &nbsp;her words she thus without delay<br /> Resuming,
+      turn'd their point on me, to whom<br /> They but with lateral edge seem'd
+      harsh before,<br /> "Say thou, who stand'st beyond the holy stream,<br /> If
+      this be true. &nbsp;A charge so grievous needs<br /> Thine own avowal."
+      &nbsp;On my faculty<br /> Such strange amazement hung, the voice expir'd<br />
+      Imperfect, ere its organs gave it birth.<br /> <br />A little space
+      refraining, then she spake:<br /> "What dost thou muse on? &nbsp;Answer me.
+      &nbsp;The wave<br /> On thy remembrances of evil yet<br /> Hath done no
+      injury." &nbsp;A mingled sense<br /> Of fear and of confusion, from my lips<br />
+      Did such a "Yea" produce, as needed help<br /> Of vision to interpret.
+      &nbsp;As when breaks<br /> In act to be discharg'd, a cross-bow bent<br />
+      Beyond its pitch, both nerve and bow o'erstretch'd,<br /> The flagging
+      weapon feebly hits the mark;<br /> Thus, tears and sighs forth gushing, did
+      I burst<br /> Beneath the heavy load, and thus my voice<br /> Was slacken'd
+      on its way. &nbsp;She straight began:<br /> "When my desire invited thee to
+      love<br /> The good, which sets a bound to our aspirings,<br /> What bar of
+      thwarting foss or linked chain<br /> Did meet thee, that thou so should'st
+      quit the hope<br /> Of further progress, or what bait of ease<br /> Or
+      promise of allurement led thee on<br /> Elsewhere, that thou elsewhere
+      should'st rather wait?"<br /> <br />A bitter sigh I drew, then scarce found
+      voice<br /> To answer, hardly to these sounds my lips<br /> Gave utterance,
+      wailing: "Thy fair looks withdrawn,<br /> Things present, with deceitful
+      pleasures, turn'd<br /> My steps aside." &nbsp;She answering spake: "Hadst
+      thou<br /> Been silent, or denied what thou avow'st,<br /> Thou hadst not
+      hid thy sin the more: such eye<br /> Observes it. &nbsp;But whene'er the
+      sinner's cheek<br /> Breaks forth into the precious-streaming tears<br /> Of
+      self-accusing, in our court the wheel<br /> Of justice doth run counter to
+      the edge.<br /> Howe'er that thou may'st profit by thy shame<br /> For
+      errors past, and that henceforth more strength<br /> May arm thee, when
+      thou hear'st the Siren-voice,<br /> Lay thou aside the motive to this
+      grief,<br /> And lend attentive ear, while I unfold<br /> How opposite a way
+      my buried flesh<br /> Should have impell'd thee. &nbsp;Never didst thou spy<br />
+      In art or nature aught so passing sweet,<br /> As were the limbs, that in
+      their beauteous frame<br /> Enclos'd me, and are scatter'd now in dust.<br />
+      If sweetest thing thus fail'd thee with my death,<br /> What, afterward, of
+      mortal should thy wish<br /> Have tempted? &nbsp;When thou first hadst felt
+      the dart<br /> Of perishable things, in my departing<br /> For better
+      realms, thy wing thou should'st have prun'd<br /> To follow me, and never
+      stoop'd again<br /> To 'bide a second blow for a slight girl,<br /> Or other
+      gaud as transient and as vain.<br /> The new and inexperienc'd bird awaits,<br />
+      Twice it may be, or thrice, the fowler's aim;<br /> But in the sight of
+      one, whose plumes are full,<br /> In vain the net is spread, the arrow
+      wing'd."<br /> <br />I stood, as children silent and asham'd<br /> Stand,
+      list'ning, with their eyes upon the earth,<br /> Acknowledging their fault
+      and self-condemn'd.<br /> And she resum'd: "If, but to hear thus pains
+      thee,<br /> Raise thou thy beard, and lo! what sight shall do!"<br /> <br />With
+      less reluctance yields a sturdy holm,<br /> Rent from its fibers by a
+      blast, that blows<br /> From off the pole, or from Iarbas' land,<br /> Than
+      I at her behest my visage rais'd:<br /> And thus the face denoting by the
+      beard,<br /> I mark'd the secret sting her words convey'd.<br /> <br />No
+      sooner lifted I mine aspect up,<br /> Than downward sunk that vision I
+      beheld<br /> Of goodly creatures vanish; and mine eyes<br /> Yet unassur'd
+      and wavering, bent their light<br /> On Beatrice. &nbsp;Towards the animal,<br />
+      Who joins two natures in one form, she turn'd,<br /> And, even under shadow
+      of her veil,<br /> And parted by the verdant rill, that flow'd<br />
+      Between, in loveliness appear'd as much<br /> Her former self surpassing,
+      as on earth<br /> All others she surpass'd. &nbsp;Remorseful goads<br />
+      Shot sudden through me. &nbsp;Each thing else, the more<br /> Its love had
+      late beguil'd me, now the more<br /> I Was loathsome. &nbsp;On my heart so
+      keenly smote<br /> The bitter consciousness, that on the ground<br />
+      O'erpower'd I fell: and what my state was then,<br /> She knows who was the
+      cause. &nbsp;When now my strength<br /> Flow'd back, returning outward from
+      the heart,<br /> The lady, whom alone I first had seen,<br /> I found above
+      me. &nbsp;"Loose me not," she cried:<br /> "Loose not thy hold;" and lo!
+      had dragg'd me high<br /> As to my neck into the stream, while she,<br />
+      Still as she drew me after, swept along,<br /> Swift as a shuttle, bounding
+      o'er the wave.<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/31-100.jpg">ENLARGE
+      TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="31-100th.jpg (39K)" src="images/31-100th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br />The blessed shore approaching then was heard<br />
+      So sweetly, "Tu asperges me," that I<br /> May not remember, much less tell
+      the sound.<br /> The beauteous dame, her arms expanding, clasp'd<br /> My
+      temples, and immerg'd me, where 't was fit<br /> The wave should drench me:
+      and thence raising up,<br /> Within the fourfold dance of lovely nymphs<br />
+      Presented me so lav'd, and with their arm<br /> They each did cover me.
+      &nbsp;"Here are we nymphs,<br /> And in the heav'n are stars. &nbsp;Or ever
+      earth<br /> Was visited of Beatrice, we<br /> Appointed for her handmaids,
+      tended on her.<br /> We to her eyes will lead thee; but the light<br /> Of
+      gladness that is in them, well to scan,<br /> Those yonder three, of deeper
+      ken than ours,<br /> Thy sight shall quicken." &nbsp;Thus began their song;<br />
+      And then they led me to the Gryphon's breast,<br /> While, turn'd toward
+      us, Beatrice stood.<br /> "Spare not thy vision. &nbsp;We have stationed
+      thee<br /> Before the emeralds, whence love erewhile<br /> Hath drawn his
+      weapons on thee." &nbsp;As they spake,<br /> A thousand fervent wishes
+      riveted<br /> Mine eyes upon her beaming eyes, that stood<br /> Still fix'd
+      toward the Gryphon motionless.<br /> As the sun strikes a mirror, even thus<br />
+      Within those orbs the twofold being, shone,<br /> For ever varying, in one
+      figure now<br /> Reflected, now in other. &nbsp;Reader! muse<br /> How
+      wond'rous in my sight it seem'd to mark<br /> A thing, albeit steadfast in
+      itself,<br /> Yet in its imag'd semblance mutable.<br /> <br />Full of amaze,
+      and joyous, while my soul<br /> Fed on the viand, whereof still desire<br />
+      Grows with satiety, the other three<br /> With gesture, that declar'd a
+      loftier line,<br /> Advanc'd: to their own carol on they came<br /> Dancing
+      in festive ring angelical.<br /> <br />"Turn, Beatrice!" was their song: "O
+      turn<br /> Thy saintly sight on this thy faithful one,<br /> Who to behold
+      thee many a wearisome pace<br /> Hath measur'd. &nbsp;Gracious at our
+      pray'r vouchsafe<br /> Unveil to him thy cheeks: that he may mark<br /> Thy
+      second beauty, now conceal'd." &nbsp;O splendour!<br /> O sacred light
+      eternal! who is he<br /> So pale with musing in Pierian shades,<br /> Or
+      with that fount so lavishly imbued,<br /> Whose spirit should not fail him
+      in th' essay<br /> To represent thee such as thou didst seem,<br /> When
+      under cope of the still-chiming heaven<br /> Thou gav'st to open air thy
+      charms reveal'd. <br /><br /> <a name="link32" id="link32"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXXII
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> Mine eyes with such an eager coveting,<br /> Were bent to rid them of
+      their ten years' thirst,<br /> No other sense was waking: and e'en they<br />
+      Were fenc'd on either side from heed of aught;<br /> So tangled in its
+      custom'd toils that smile<br /> Of saintly brightness drew me to itself,<br />
+      When forcibly toward the left my sight<br /> The sacred virgins turn'd; for
+      from their lips<br /> I heard the warning sounds: "Too fix'd a gaze!"<br />
+      <br />Awhile my vision labor'd; as when late<br /> Upon the' o'erstrained
+      eyes the sun hath smote:<br /> But soon to lesser object, as the view<br />
+      Was now recover'd (lesser in respect<br /> To that excess of sensible,
+      whence late<br /> I had perforce been sunder'd) on their right<br /> I
+      mark'd that glorious army wheel, and turn,<br /> Against the sun and
+      sev'nfold lights, their front.<br /> As when, their bucklers for protection
+      rais'd,<br /> A well-rang'd troop, with portly banners curl'd,<br /> Wheel
+      circling, ere the whole can change their ground:<br /> E'en thus the goodly
+      regiment of heav'n<br /> Proceeding, all did pass us, ere the car<br /> Had
+      slop'd his beam. &nbsp;Attendant at the wheels<br /> The damsels turn'd;
+      and on the Gryphon mov'd<br /> The sacred burden, with a pace so smooth,<br />
+      No feather on him trembled. &nbsp;The fair dame<br /> Who through the wave
+      had drawn me, companied<br /> By Statius and myself, pursued the wheel,<br />
+      Whose orbit, rolling, mark'd a lesser arch.<br /> <br />Through the high
+      wood, now void (the more her blame,<br /> Who by the serpent was beguil'd)
+      I past<br /> With step in cadence to the harmony<br /> Angelic. &nbsp;Onward
+      had we mov'd, as far<br /> Perchance as arrow at three several flights<br />
+      Full wing'd had sped, when from her station down<br /> Descended Beatrice.
+      &nbsp;With one voice<br /> All murmur'd &nbsp;"Adam," circling next a plant<br />
+      Despoil'd of flowers and leaf on every bough.<br /> Its tresses, spreading
+      more as more they rose,<br /> Were such, as 'midst their forest wilds for
+      height<br /> The Indians might have gaz'd at. &nbsp;"Blessed thou!<br />
+      Gryphon, whose beak hath never pluck'd that tree<br /> Pleasant to taste:
+      for hence the appetite<br /> Was warp'd to evil." &nbsp;Round the stately
+      trunk<br /> Thus shouted forth the rest, to whom return'd<br /> The animal
+      twice-gender'd: "Yea: for so<br /> The generation of the just are sav'd."<br />
+      And turning to the chariot-pole, to foot<br /> He drew it of the widow'd
+      branch, and bound<br /> There left unto the stock whereon it grew.<br />
+      <br />As when large floods of radiance from above<br /> Stream, with that
+      radiance mingled, which ascends<br /> Next after setting of the scaly sign,<br />
+      Our plants then burgeon, and each wears anew<br /> His wonted colours, ere
+      the sun have yok'd<br /> Beneath another star his flamy steeds;<br /> Thus
+      putting forth a hue, more faint than rose,<br /> And deeper than the
+      violet, was renew'd<br /> The plant, erewhile in all its branches bare.<br />
+      <br />Unearthly was the hymn, which then arose.<br /> I understood it not,
+      nor to the end<br /> Endur'd the harmony. &nbsp;Had I the skill<br /> To
+      pencil forth, how clos'd th' unpitying eyes<br /> Slumb'ring, when Syrinx
+      warbled, (eyes that paid<br /> So dearly for their watching,) then like
+      painter,<br /> That with a model paints, I might design<br /> The manner of
+      my falling into sleep.<br /> But feign who will the slumber cunningly;<br />
+      I pass it by to when I wak'd, and tell<br /> How suddenly a flash of
+      splendour rent<br /> The curtain of my sleep, and one cries out:<br />
+      "Arise, what dost thou?" &nbsp;As the chosen three,<br /> On Tabor's mount,
+      admitted to behold<br /> The blossoming of that fair tree, whose fruit<br />
+      Is coveted of angels, and doth make<br /> Perpetual feast in heaven, to
+      themselves<br /> Returning at the word, whence deeper sleeps<br /> Were
+      broken, that they their tribe diminish'd saw,<br /> Both Moses and Elias
+      gone, and chang'd<br /> The stole their master wore: thus to myself<br />
+      Returning, over me beheld I stand<br /> The piteous one, who cross the
+      stream had brought<br /> My steps. &nbsp;"And where," all doubting, I
+      exclaim'd,<br /> "Is Beatrice?"&mdash;"See her," she replied,<br /> "Beneath
+      the fresh leaf seated on its root.<br /> Behold th' associate choir that
+      circles her.<br /> The others, with a melody more sweet<br /> And more
+      profound, journeying to higher realms,<br /> Upon the Gryphon tend." &nbsp;If
+      there her words<br /> Were clos'd, I know not; but mine eyes had now<br />
+      Ta'en view of her, by whom all other thoughts<br /> Were barr'd admittance.
+      &nbsp;On the very ground<br /> Alone she sat, as she had there been left<br />
+      A guard upon the wain, which I beheld<br /> Bound to the twyform beast.
+      &nbsp;The seven nymphs<br /> Did make themselves a cloister round about
+      her,<br /> And in their hands upheld those lights secure<br /> From blast
+      septentrion and the gusty south.<br /> <br />"A little while thou shalt be
+      forester here:<br /> And citizen shalt be forever with me,<br /> Of that
+      true Rome, wherein Christ dwells a Roman<br /> To profit the misguided
+      world, keep now<br /> Thine eyes upon the car; and what thou seest,<br />
+      Take heed thou write, returning to that place."<br /> <br />Thus Beatrice:
+      at whose feet inclin'd<br /> Devout, at her behest, my thought and eyes,<br />
+      I, as she bade, directed. &nbsp;Never fire,<br /> With so swift motion,
+      forth a stormy cloud<br /> Leap'd downward from the welkin's farthest
+      bound,<br /> As I beheld the bird of Jove descending<br /> Pounce on the
+      tree, and, as he rush'd, the rind,<br /> Disparting crush beneath him, buds
+      much more<br /> And leaflets. &nbsp;On the car with all his might<br /> He
+      struck, whence, staggering like a ship, it reel'd,<br /> At random driv'n,
+      to starboard now, o'ercome,<br /> And now to larboard, by the vaulting
+      waves.<br /> <br />Next springing up into the chariot's womb<br /> A fox I
+      saw, with hunger seeming pin'd<br /> Of all good food. &nbsp;But, for his
+      ugly sins<br /> The saintly maid rebuking him, away<br /> Scamp'ring he
+      turn'd, fast as his hide-bound corpse<br /> Would bear him. &nbsp;Next,
+      from whence before he came,<br /> I saw the eagle dart into the hull<br />
+      O' th' car, and leave it with his feathers lin'd;<br /> And then a voice,
+      like that which issues forth<br /> From heart with sorrow riv'd, did issue
+      forth<br /> From heav'n, and, "O poor bark of mine!" it cried,<br /> "How
+      badly art thou freighted!" &nbsp;Then, it seem'd,<br /> That the earth
+      open'd between either wheel,<br /> And I beheld a dragon issue thence,<br />
+      That through the chariot fix'd his forked train;<br /> And like a wasp that
+      draggeth back the sting,<br /> So drawing forth his baleful train, he
+      dragg'd<br /> Part of the bottom forth, and went his way<br /> Exulting.
+      &nbsp;What remain'd, as lively turf<br /> With green herb, so did clothe
+      itself with plumes,<br /> Which haply had with purpose chaste and kind<br />
+      Been offer'd; and therewith were cloth'd the wheels,<br /> Both one and
+      other, and the beam, so quickly<br /> A sigh were not breath'd sooner.
+      &nbsp;Thus transform'd,<br /> The holy structure, through its several
+      parts,<br /> Did put forth heads, three on the beam, and one<br /> On every
+      side; the first like oxen horn'd,<br /> But with a single horn upon their
+      front<br /> The four. &nbsp;Like monster sight hath never seen.<br /> O'er
+      it methought there sat, secure as rock<br /> On mountain's lofty top, a
+      shameless whore,<br /> Whose ken rov'd loosely round her. &nbsp;At her
+      side,<br /> As 't were that none might bear her off, I saw<br /> A giant
+      stand; and ever, and anon<br /> They mingled kisses. &nbsp;But, her lustful
+      eyes<br /> Chancing on me to wander, that fell minion<br /> Scourg'd her
+      from head to foot all o'er; then full<br /> Of jealousy, and fierce with
+      rage, unloos'd<br /> The monster, and dragg'd on, so far across<br /> The
+      forest, that from me its shades alone<br /> Shielded the harlot and the
+      new-form'd brute. <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a href="images/32-148.jpg">ENLARGE
+      TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="32-148th.jpg (47K)" src="images/32-148th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <a name="link33" id="link33"></a> <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      CANTO XXXIII
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /> "The heathen, Lord! are come!" responsive thus,<br /> The trinal now,
+      and now the virgin band<br /> Quaternion, their sweet psalmody began,<br />
+      Weeping; and Beatrice listen'd, sad<br /> And sighing, to the song', in
+      such a mood,<br /> That Mary, as she stood beside the cross,<br /> Was
+      scarce more chang'd. &nbsp;But when they gave her place<br /> To speak,
+      then, risen upright on her feet,<br /> She, with a colour glowing bright as
+      fire,<br /> Did answer: "Yet a little while, and ye<br /> Shall see me not;
+      and, my beloved sisters,<br /> Again a little while, and ye shall see me."<br />
+      <br />Before her then she marshall'd all the seven,<br /> And, beck'ning
+      only motion'd me, the dame,<br /> And that remaining sage, to follow her.<br />
+      <br />So on she pass'd; and had not set, I ween,<br /> Her tenth step to the
+      ground, when with mine eyes<br /> Her eyes encounter'd; and, with visage
+      mild,<br /> "So mend thy pace," she cried, "that if my words<br /> Address
+      thee, thou mayst still be aptly plac'd<br /> To hear them." &nbsp;Soon as
+      duly to her side<br /> I now had hasten'd: "Brother!" she began,<br /> "Why
+      mak'st thou no attempt at questioning,<br /> As thus we walk together?"
+      &nbsp;Like to those<br /> Who, speaking with too reverent an awe<br />
+      Before their betters, draw not forth the voice<br /> Alive unto their lips,
+      befell me shell<br /> That I in sounds imperfect thus began:<br /> "Lady!
+      what I have need of, that thou know'st,<br /> And what will suit my need."
+      &nbsp;She answering thus:<br /> "Of fearfulness and shame, I will, that
+      thou<br /> Henceforth do rid thee: that thou speak no more,<br /> As one who
+      dreams. &nbsp;Thus far be taught of me:<br /> The vessel, which thou saw'st
+      the serpent break,<br /> Was and is not: let him, who hath the blame,<br />
+      Hope not to scare God's vengeance with a sop.<br /> Without an heir for
+      ever shall not be<br /> That eagle, he, who left the chariot plum'd,<br />
+      Which monster made it first and next a prey.<br /> Plainly I view, and
+      therefore speak, the stars<br /> E'en now approaching, whose conjunction,
+      free<br /> From all impediment and bar, brings on<br /> A season, in the
+      which, one sent from God,<br /> (Five hundred, five, and ten, do mark him
+      out)<br /> That foul one, and th' accomplice of her guilt,<br /> The giant,
+      both shall slay. &nbsp;And if perchance<br /> My saying, dark as Themis or
+      as Sphinx,<br /> Fail to persuade thee, (since like them it foils<br /> The
+      intellect with blindness) yet ere long<br /> Events shall be the Naiads,
+      that will solve<br /> This knotty riddle, and no damage light<br /> On flock
+      or field. &nbsp;Take heed; and as these words<br /> By me are utter'd,
+      teach them even so<br /> To those who live that life, which is a race<br />
+      To death: and when thou writ'st them, keep in mind<br /> Not to conceal how
+      thou hast seen the plant,<br /> That twice hath now been spoil'd. &nbsp;This
+      whoso robs,<br /> This whoso plucks, with blasphemy of deed<br /> Sins
+      against God, who for his use alone<br /> Creating hallow'd it. &nbsp;For
+      taste of this,<br /> In pain and in desire, five thousand years<br /> And
+      upward, the first soul did yearn for him,<br /> Who punish'd in himself the
+      fatal gust.<br /> <br />"Thy reason slumbers, if it deem this height<br />
+      And summit thus inverted of the plant,<br /> Without due cause: and were
+      not vainer thoughts,<br /> As Elsa's numbing waters, to thy soul,<br /> And
+      their fond pleasures had not dyed it dark<br /> As Pyramus the mulberry,
+      thou hadst seen,<br /> In such momentous circumstance alone,<br /> God's
+      equal justice morally implied<br /> In the forbidden tree. &nbsp;But since
+      I mark thee<br /> In understanding harden'd into stone,<br /> And, to that
+      hardness, spotted too and stain'd,<br /> So that thine eye is dazzled at my
+      word,<br /> I will, that, if not written, yet at least<br /> Painted thou
+      take it in thee, for the cause,<br /> That one brings home his staff
+      inwreath'd with palm.<br /> <br />I thus: "As wax by seal, that changeth not<br />
+      Its impress, now is stamp'd my brain by thee.<br /> But wherefore soars thy
+      wish'd-for speech so high<br /> Beyond my sight, that loses it the more,<br />
+      The more it strains to reach it?"&mdash;"To the end<br /> That thou mayst
+      know," she answer'd straight, "the school,<br /> That thou hast follow'd;
+      and how far behind,<br /> When following my discourse, its learning halts:<br />
+      And mayst behold your art, from the divine<br /> As distant, as the
+      disagreement is<br /> 'Twixt earth and heaven's most high and rapturous
+      orb."<br /> <br />"I not remember," I replied, "that e'er<br /> I was
+      estrang'd from thee, nor for such fault<br /> Doth conscience chide me."
+      &nbsp;Smiling she return'd:<br /> "If thou canst, not remember, call to
+      mind<br /> How lately thou hast drunk of Lethe's wave;<br /> And, sure as
+      smoke doth indicate a flame,<br /> In that forgetfulness itself conclude<br />
+      Blame from thy alienated will incurr'd.<br /> From henceforth verily my
+      words shall be<br /> As naked as will suit them to appear<br /> In thy
+      unpractis'd view." &nbsp;More sparkling now,<br /> And with retarded course
+      the sun possess'd<br /> The circle of mid-day, that varies still<br /> As
+      th' aspect varies of each several clime,<br /> When, as one, sent in vaward
+      of a troop<br /> For escort, pauses, if perchance he spy<br /> Vestige of
+      somewhat strange and rare: so paus'd<br /> The sev'nfold band, arriving at
+      the verge<br /> Of a dun umbrage hoar, such as is seen,<br /> Beneath green
+      leaves and gloomy branches, oft<br /> To overbrow a bleak and alpine cliff.<br />
+      And, where they stood, before them, as it seem'd,<br /> Tigris and
+      Euphrates both beheld,<br /> Forth from one fountain issue; and, like
+      friends,<br /> Linger at parting. "O enlight'ning beam!<br /> O glory of our
+      kind! beseech thee say<br /> What water this, which from one source deriv'd<br />
+      Itself removes to distance from itself?"<br /> <br />To such entreaty answer
+      thus was made:<br /> "Entreat Matilda, that she teach thee this."<br />
+      <br />And here, as one, who clears himself of blame<br /> Imputed, the fair
+      dame return'd: "Of me<br /> He this and more hath learnt; and I am safe<br />
+      That Lethe's water hath not hid it from him."<br /> <br />And Beatrice:
+      "Some more pressing care<br /> That oft the memory 'reeves, perchance hath
+      made<br /> His mind's eye dark. &nbsp;But lo! where Eunoe cows!<br /> Lead
+      thither; and, as thou art wont, revive<br /> His fainting virtue." &nbsp;As
+      a courteous spirit,<br /> That proffers no excuses, but as soon<br /> As he
+      hath token of another's will,<br /> Makes it his own; when she had ta'en
+      me, thus<br /> The lovely maiden mov'd her on, and call'd<br /> To Statius
+      with an air most lady-like:<br /> "Come thou with him." &nbsp;Were further
+      space allow'd,<br /> Then, Reader, might I sing, though but in part,<br />
+      That beverage, with whose sweetness I had ne'er<br /> Been sated. &nbsp;But,
+      since all the leaves are full,<br /> Appointed for this second strain, mine
+      art<br /> With warning bridle checks me. &nbsp;I return'd<br /> From the
+      most holy wave, regenerate,<br /> If 'en as new plants renew'd with foliage
+      new,<br /> Pure and made apt for mounting to the stars. <br /><br /><br /><br />
+      <a href="images/33-134.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a>
+    </p>
+    <div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
+      <img alt="33-134th.jpg (36K)" src="images/33-134th.jpg" width="100%" /><br />
+    </div>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /> <br />
+    </p>
+<pre xml:space="preserve">
+
+
+
+
+
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+by Dante Alighieri
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+</pre>
+  </body>
+</html>
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+<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN">
+<html>
+<head>
+<title>Dante's Purgatory, Complete</title>
+<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1">
+
+<style type="text/css">
+    <!--
+		body {background:#faebd7; margin:15%; text-align:justify}
+    P { text-indent:   1em;
+        margin-top:    .75em;
+        margin-bottom: .75em; }
+    H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; }
+    HR  { width: 33%; text-align: center; }
+		table {font-size: 120%;}
+		blockquote {font-size: 97%; }
+		table {font-size: 120%;}
+		.figleft   {float: left;}
+    .figright  {float: right;}
+    .toc       { margin-left: 15%; margin-bottom: 0em;}
+    CENTER { padding: 10px;}
+		PRE    { font-family: Times; font-size: 97%; margin-left: 15%;}
+    // -->
+</style>
+
+</head>
+<body>
+
+
+
+<h2>THE VISION OF PURGATORY, Complete
+<br>By Dante Alighieri, <br>Illustrated by Dore</h2>
+
+
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=6 border=4>
+<tr><td>
+
+&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="#contents"><b>List of Cantos</b></a>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>
+&nbsp;<a href="p1.htm"><b>Begin Part One</b></a>&nbsp;
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+<pre>
+
+Project Gutenberg's The Vision of Purgatory, Complete, by Dante Alighieri
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.net
+
+
+Title: The Vision of Purgatory, Complete
+
+Author: Dante Alighieri
+
+Release Date: August 5, 2004 [EBook #8795]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE VISION OF PURGATORY, COMPLETE ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Widger
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+
+
+<br><br><br>
+
+<center>
+<h1>THE VISION</h1><br>
+<h2>OF</h2><br>
+<h1>HELL, PURGATORY, AND PARADISE</h1><br>
+<h2>BY</h2><br>
+<h1>DANTE ALIGHIERI</h1>
+
+<br><br>
+
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=6 border=4>
+<tr><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gutenberg.net/8/7/8/8789/8789-h/8789-h.htm"><b>HELL</b></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gutenberg.net/8/7/9/8799/8799-h/8799-h.htm"><b>PARADISE</b></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+
+
+<br><br><br><br><br><br>
+<h2>PURGATORY</h2>
+<h3>Complete</h3>
+<br><br><br>
+<h3>TRANSLATED BY</h3><br>
+<h2>THE REV. H. F. CARY, M.A.</h2>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/cover.jpg"><img alt="coverth.jpg (42K)" src="images/coverth.jpg" height="478" width="553"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/frontispiece.jpg"><img alt="front2.jpg (41K)" src="images/front2.jpg" height="477" width="431"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/titlepage.jpg"><img alt="title2.jpg (21K)" src="images/title2.jpg" height="535" width="416"></a>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<h1>PURGATORY</h1>
+</center>
+<br><br>
+
+<a name="contents"></a>
+
+<br><br>
+
+
+<center>
+<h2>LIST OF CANTOS</h2>
+</center>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="Contents">
+<tr><td>
+
+<a href="p1.htm#1">Canto 1</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>
+<a href="p1.htm#2">Canto 2</a><br>
+<a href="p1.htm#3">Canto 3</a><br>
+<a href="p1.htm#4">Canto 4</a><br>
+<a href="p2.htm#5">Canto 5</a><br>
+<a href="p2.htm#6">Canto 6</a><br>
+<a href="p2.htm#7">Canto 7</a><br>
+<a href="p2.htm#8">Canto 8</a><br>
+<a href="p2.htm#9">Canto 9</a><br>
+<a href="p2.htm#10">Canto 10</a><br>
+<a href="p3.htm#11">Canto 11</a><br>
+</td>
+<td>
+<a href="p3.htm#12">Canto 12</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>
+<a href="p3.htm#13">Canto 13</a><br>
+<a href="p3.htm#14">Canto 14</a><br>
+<a href="p3.htm#15">Canto 15</a><br>
+<a href="p3.htm#16">Canto 16</a><br>
+<a href="p3.htm#17">Canto 17</a><br>
+<a href="p3.htm#18">Canto 18</a><br>
+<a href="p4.htm#19">Canto 19</a><br>
+<a href="p4.htm#20">Canto 20</a><br>
+<a href="p4.htm#21">Canto 21</a><br>
+<a href="p4.htm#22">Canto 22</a><br>
+</td>
+<td>
+<a href="p4.htm#23">Canto 23</a><br>
+<a href="p4.htm#24">Canto 24</a><br>
+<a href="p4.htm#25">Canto 25</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#26">Canto 26</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#27">Canto 27</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#28">Canto 28</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#29">Canto 29</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#30">Canto 30</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#31">Canto 31</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#32">Canto 32</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#33">Canto 33</a><br>
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=6 border=4>
+<tr><td>
+
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p1.htm"><b>Begin Part One</b></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Vision of Purgatory, Complete
+by Dante Alighieri
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+</pre>
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+</body>
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+
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+<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN">
+<html>
+<head>
+<title>Dante's Purgatory, Complete</title>
+<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1">
+
+<style type="text/css">
+    <!--
+		body {background:#faebd7; margin:15%; text-align:justify}
+    P { text-indent:   1em;
+        margin-top:    .75em;
+        margin-bottom: .75em; }
+    H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; }
+    HR  { width: 33%; text-align: center; }
+		table {font-size: 120%;}
+		blockquote {font-size: 97%; }
+		table {font-size: 120%;}
+		.figleft   {float: left;}
+    .figright  {float: right;}
+    .toc       { margin-left: 15%; margin-bottom: 0em;}
+    CENTER { padding: 10px;}
+		PRE    { font-family: Times; font-size: 97%; margin-left: 15%;}
+    // -->
+</style>
+
+</head>
+<body>
+
+
+
+<h2>THE VISION OF PURGATORY, Complete
+<br>By Dante Alighieri, <br>Illustrated by Dore</h2>
+
+
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=6 border=4>
+<tr><td>
+
+&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="#contents"><b>List of Cantos</b></a>&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>
+&nbsp;<a href="p1.htm"><b>Begin Part One</b></a>&nbsp;
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+<pre>
+
+Project Gutenberg's The Vision of Purgatory, Complete, by Dante Alighieri
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.net
+
+
+Title: The Vision of Purgatory, Complete
+
+Author: Dante Alighieri
+
+Release Date: August 5, 2004 [EBook #8795]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE VISION OF PURGATORY, COMPLETE ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Widger
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+
+
+<br><br><br>
+
+<center>
+<h1>THE VISION</h1><br>
+<h2>OF</h2><br>
+<h1>HELL, PURGATORY, AND PARADISE</h1><br>
+<h2>BY</h2><br>
+<h1>DANTE ALIGHIERI</h1>
+
+<br><br>
+
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=6 border=4>
+<tr><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gutenberg.net/8/7/8/8789/8789-h/8789-h.htm"><b>HELL</b></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td></tr><tr><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gutenberg.net/8/7/9/8799/8799-h/8799-h.htm"><b>PARADISE</b></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+
+
+<br><br><br><br><br><br>
+<h2>PURGATORY</h2>
+<h3>Complete</h3>
+<br><br><br>
+<h3>TRANSLATED BY</h3><br>
+<h2>THE REV. H. F. CARY, M.A.</h2>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/cover.jpg"><img alt="coverth.jpg (42K)" src="images/coverth.jpg" height="478" width="553"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/frontispiece.jpg"><img alt="front2.jpg (41K)" src="images/front2.jpg" height="477" width="431"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/titlepage.jpg"><img alt="title2.jpg (21K)" src="images/title2.jpg" height="535" width="416"></a>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<h1>PURGATORY</h1>
+</center>
+<br><br>
+
+<a name="contents"></a>
+
+<br><br>
+
+
+<center>
+<h2>LIST OF CANTOS</h2>
+</center>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="Contents">
+<tr><td>
+
+<a href="p1.htm#1">Canto 1</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>
+<a href="p1.htm#2">Canto 2</a><br>
+<a href="p1.htm#3">Canto 3</a><br>
+<a href="p1.htm#4">Canto 4</a><br>
+<a href="p2.htm#5">Canto 5</a><br>
+<a href="p2.htm#6">Canto 6</a><br>
+<a href="p2.htm#7">Canto 7</a><br>
+<a href="p2.htm#8">Canto 8</a><br>
+<a href="p2.htm#9">Canto 9</a><br>
+<a href="p2.htm#10">Canto 10</a><br>
+<a href="p3.htm#11">Canto 11</a><br>
+</td>
+<td>
+<a href="p3.htm#12">Canto 12</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>
+<a href="p3.htm#13">Canto 13</a><br>
+<a href="p3.htm#14">Canto 14</a><br>
+<a href="p3.htm#15">Canto 15</a><br>
+<a href="p3.htm#16">Canto 16</a><br>
+<a href="p3.htm#17">Canto 17</a><br>
+<a href="p3.htm#18">Canto 18</a><br>
+<a href="p4.htm#19">Canto 19</a><br>
+<a href="p4.htm#20">Canto 20</a><br>
+<a href="p4.htm#21">Canto 21</a><br>
+<a href="p4.htm#22">Canto 22</a><br>
+</td>
+<td>
+<a href="p4.htm#23">Canto 23</a><br>
+<a href="p4.htm#24">Canto 24</a><br>
+<a href="p4.htm#25">Canto 25</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#26">Canto 26</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#27">Canto 27</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#28">Canto 28</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#29">Canto 29</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#30">Canto 30</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#31">Canto 31</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#32">Canto 32</a><br>
+<a href="p5.htm#33">Canto 33</a><br>
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=6 border=4>
+<tr><td>
+
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p1.htm"><b>Begin Part One</b></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Vision of Purgatory, Complete
+by Dante Alighieri
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+</pre>
+
+</body>
+</html>
+
diff --git a/old/orig8795-h/p1.htm b/old/orig8795-h/p1.htm
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..08e8c2b
--- /dev/null
+++ b/old/orig8795-h/p1.htm
@@ -0,0 +1,748 @@
+<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN">
+<html>
+<head>
+<title>Dante's Purgatory, Part 1.</title>
+<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1">
+
+<style type="text/css">
+    <!--
+		body {background:#faebd7; margin:15%; text-align:justify}
+    P { text-indent:   1em;
+        margin-top:    .75em;
+        margin-bottom: .75em; }
+    H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; }
+    HR  { width: 33%; text-align: center; }
+		blockquote {font-size: 97%; }
+		table {font-size: 120%}
+		.figleft   {float: left;}
+    .figright  {float: right;}
+    .toc       { margin-left: 15%; margin-bottom: 0em;}
+    CENTER { padding: 10px;}
+		PRE    { font-family: Times; font-size: 97%; margin-left: 15%;}
+    // -->
+</style>
+
+</head>
+<body>
+<h2>THE VISION OF PURGATORY, Part 1.</h2>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=4 border=3>
+<tr><td>
+ &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p2.htm">Next Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="8795-h.htm">Main Index</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+ </td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+
+<center>
+<h1>THE VISION</h1><br>
+<h2>OF</h2><br>
+<h1>HELL, PURGATORY, AND PARADISE</h1><br>
+<h2>BY</h2><br>
+<h1>DANTE ALIGHIERI</h1>
+
+<br><br><br>
+<br><br><br>
+<h2>PURGATORY</h2>
+<h3>Part 1</h3>
+<br><br><br>
+<h3>TRANSLATED BY</h3><br>
+<h2>THE REV. H. F. CARY, M.A.</h2>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/cover.jpg"><img alt="coverth.jpg (42K)" src="images/coverth.jpg" height="478" width="553"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/frontispiece.jpg"><img alt="front2.jpg (41K)" src="images/front2.jpg" height="477" width="431"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/titlepage.jpg"><img alt="title2.jpg (21K)" src="images/title2.jpg" height="535" width="416"></a>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<h1>PURGATORY</h1>
+</center>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<center>
+<h2>LIST OF CANTOS</h2>
+</center>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="Contents">
+<tr><td>
+
+
+
+<a href="#1">Canto 1</a><br>
+<a href="#2">Canto 2</a><br>
+<a href="#3">Canto 3</a><br>
+<a href="#4">Canto 4</a><br>
+
+
+
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<center>
+<table summary="Purgatory">
+<tr><td>
+<br><br>
+
+
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="1"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO I</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>
+O'er better waves to speed her rapid course<br>
+The light bark of my genius lifts the sail,<br>
+Well pleas'd to leave so cruel sea behind;<br>
+And of that second region will I sing,<br>
+In which the human spirit from sinful blot<br>
+Is purg'd, and for ascent to Heaven prepares.<br>
+<br>Here, O ye hallow'd Nine! for in your train<br>
+I follow, here the deadened strain revive;<br>
+Nor let Calliope refuse to sound<br>
+A somewhat higher song, of that loud tone,<br>
+Which when the wretched birds of chattering note<br>
+Had heard, they of forgiveness lost all hope.<br>
+<br>Sweet hue of eastern sapphire, that was spread<br>
+O'er the serene aspect of the pure air,<br>
+High up as the first circle, to mine eyes<br>
+Unwonted joy renew'd, soon as I 'scap'd<br>
+Forth from the atmosphere of deadly gloom,<br>
+That had mine eyes and bosom fill'd with grief.<br>
+The radiant planet, that to love invites,<br>
+Made all the orient laugh, and veil'd beneath<br>
+The Pisces' light, that in his escort came.<br>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/01-19.jpg"><img alt="01-19th.jpg (38K)" src="images/01-19th.jpg" height="477" width="432"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+<br>To the right hand I turn'd, and fix'd my mind<br>
+On the' other pole attentive, where I saw<br>
+Four stars ne'er seen before save by the ken<br>
+Of our first parents. &nbsp;Heaven of their rays<br>
+Seem'd joyous. &nbsp;O thou northern site, bereft<br>
+Indeed, and widow'd, since of these depriv'd!<br>
+<br>As from this view I had desisted, straight<br>
+Turning a little tow'rds the other pole,<br>
+There from whence now the wain had disappear'd,<br>
+I saw an old man standing by my side<br>
+Alone, so worthy of rev'rence in his look,<br>
+That ne'er from son to father more was ow'd.<br>
+Low down his beard and mix'd with hoary white<br>
+Descended, like his locks, which parting fell<br>
+Upon his breast in double fold. &nbsp;The beams<br>
+Of those four luminaries on his face<br>
+So brightly shone, and with such radiance clear<br>
+Deck'd it, that I beheld him as the sun.<br>
+<br>"Say who are ye, that stemming the blind stream,<br>
+Forth from th' eternal prison-house have fled?"<br>
+He spoke and moved those venerable plumes.<br>
+"Who hath conducted, or with lantern sure<br>
+Lights you emerging from the depth of night,<br>
+That makes the infernal valley ever black?<br>
+Are the firm statutes of the dread abyss<br>
+Broken, or in high heaven new laws ordain'd,<br>
+That thus, condemn'd, ye to my caves approach?"<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/01-49.jpg"><img alt="01-49th.jpg (35K)" src="images/01-49th.jpg" height="477" width="430"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>My guide, then laying hold on me, by words<br>
+And intimations given with hand and head,<br>
+Made my bent knees and eye submissive pay<br>
+Due reverence; then thus to him replied.<br>
+<br>"Not of myself I come; a Dame from heaven<br>
+Descending, had besought me in my charge<br>
+To bring. &nbsp;But since thy will implies, that more<br>
+Our true condition I unfold at large,<br>
+Mine is not to deny thee thy request.<br>
+This mortal ne'er hath seen the farthest gloom.<br>
+But erring by his folly had approach'd<br>
+So near, that little space was left to turn.<br>
+Then, as before I told, I was dispatch'd<br>
+To work his rescue, and no way remain'd<br>
+Save this which I have ta'en. &nbsp;I have display'd<br>
+Before him all the regions of the bad;<br>
+And purpose now those spirits to display,<br>
+That under thy command are purg'd from sin.<br>
+How I have brought him would be long to say.<br>
+From high descends the virtue, by whose aid<br>
+I to thy sight and hearing him have led.<br>
+Now may our coming please thee. &nbsp;In the search<br>
+Of liberty he journeys: that how dear<br>
+They know, who for her sake have life refus'd.<br>
+Thou knowest, to whom death for her was sweet<br>
+In Utica, where thou didst leave those weeds,<br>
+That in the last great day will shine so bright.<br>
+For us the' eternal edicts are unmov'd:<br>
+He breathes, and I am free of Minos' power,<br>
+Abiding in that circle where the eyes<br>
+Of thy chaste Marcia beam, who still in look<br>
+Prays thee, O hallow'd spirit! to own her shine.<br>
+Then by her love we' implore thee, let us pass<br>
+Through thy sev'n regions; for which best thanks<br>
+I for thy favour will to her return,<br>
+If mention there below thou not disdain."<br>
+<br>"Marcia so pleasing in my sight was found,"<br>
+He then to him rejoin'd, "while I was there,<br>
+That all she ask'd me I was fain to grant.<br>
+Now that beyond the' accursed stream she dwells,<br>
+She may no longer move me, by that law,<br>
+Which was ordain'd me, when I issued thence.<br>
+Not so, if Dame from heaven, as thou sayst,<br>
+Moves and directs thee; then no flattery needs.<br>
+Enough for me that in her name thou ask.<br>
+Go therefore now: and with a slender reed<br>
+See that thou duly gird him, and his face<br>
+Lave, till all sordid stain thou wipe from thence.<br>
+For not with eye, by any cloud obscur'd,<br>
+Would it be seemly before him to come,<br>
+Who stands the foremost minister in heaven.<br>
+This islet all around, there far beneath,<br>
+Where the wave beats it, on the oozy bed<br>
+Produces store of reeds. No other plant,<br>
+Cover'd with leaves, or harden'd in its stalk,<br>
+There lives, not bending to the water's sway.<br>
+After, this way return not; but the sun<br>
+Will show you, that now rises, where to take<br>
+The mountain in its easiest ascent."<br>
+<br>He disappear'd; and I myself uprais'd<br>
+Speechless, and to my guide retiring close,<br>
+Toward him turn'd mine eyes. &nbsp;He thus began;<br>
+"My son! observant thou my steps pursue.<br>
+We must retreat to rearward, for that way<br>
+The champain to its low extreme declines."<br>
+<br>The dawn had chas'd the matin hour of prime,<br>
+Which deaf before it, so that from afar<br>
+I spy'd the trembling of the ocean stream.<br>
+<br>We travers'd the deserted plain, as one<br>
+Who, wander'd from his track, thinks every step<br>
+Trodden in vain till he regain the path.<br>
+<br>When we had come, where yet the tender dew<br>
+Strove with the sun, and in a place, where fresh<br>
+The wind breath'd o'er it, while it slowly dried;<br>
+Both hands extended on the watery grass<br>
+My master plac'd, in graceful act and kind.<br>
+Whence I of his intent before appriz'd,<br>
+Stretch'd out to him my cheeks suffus'd with tears.<br>
+There to my visage he anew restor'd<br>
+That hue, which the dun shades of hell conceal'd.<br>
+<br>Then on the solitary shore arriv'd,<br>
+That never sailing on its waters saw<br>
+Man, that could after measure back his course,<br>
+He girt me in such manner as had pleas'd<br>
+Him who instructed, and O, strange to tell!<br>
+As he selected every humble plant,<br>
+Wherever one was pluck'd, another there<br>
+Resembling, straightway in its place arose.</p>
+
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="2"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO II</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Now had the sun to that horizon reach'd,<br>
+That covers, with the most exalted point<br>
+Of its meridian circle, Salem's walls,<br>
+And night, that opposite to him her orb<br>
+Sounds, from the stream of Ganges issued forth,<br>
+Holding the scales, that from her hands are dropp'd<br>
+When she reigns highest: so that where I was,<br>
+Aurora's white and vermeil-tinctur'd cheek<br>
+To orange turn'd as she in age increas'd.<br>
+<br>Meanwhile we linger'd by the water's brink,<br>
+Like men, who, musing on their road, in thought<br>
+Journey, while motionless the body rests.<br>
+When lo! as near upon the hour of dawn,<br>
+Through the thick vapours Mars with fiery beam<br>
+Glares down in west, over the ocean floor;<br>
+So seem'd, what once again I hope to view,<br>
+A light so swiftly coming through the sea,<br>
+No winged course might equal its career.<br>
+From which when for a space I had withdrawn<br>
+Thine eyes, to make inquiry of my guide,<br>
+Again I look'd and saw it grown in size<br>
+And brightness: thou on either side appear'd<br>
+Something, but what I knew not of bright hue,<br>
+And by degrees from underneath it came<br>
+Another. &nbsp;My preceptor silent yet<br>
+Stood, while the brightness, that we first discern'd,<br>
+Open'd the form of wings: then when he knew<br>
+The pilot, cried aloud, "Down, down; bend low<br>
+Thy knees; behold God's angel: fold thy hands:<br>
+Now shalt thou see true Ministers indeed."<br>
+
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/02-27.jpg"><img alt="02-27th.jpg (33K)" src="images/02-27th.jpg" height="476" width="436"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+Lo how all human means he sets at naught!<br>
+So that nor oar he needs, nor other sail<br>
+Except his wings, between such distant shores.<br>
+Lo how straight up to heaven he holds them rear'd,<br>
+Winnowing the air with those eternal plumes,<br>
+That not like mortal hairs fall off or change!"<br>
+<br>As more and more toward us came, more bright<br>
+Appear'd the bird of God, nor could the eye<br>
+Endure his splendor near: I mine bent down.<br>
+He drove ashore in a small bark so swift<br>
+And light, that in its course no wave it drank.<br>
+The heav'nly steersman at the prow was seen,<br>
+Visibly written blessed in his looks.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/02-42.jpg"><img alt="02-42th.jpg (31K)" src="images/02-42th.jpg" height="477" width="427"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+Within a hundred spirits and more there sat.<br>
+"In Exitu Israel de Aegypto;"<br>
+All with one voice together sang, with what<br>
+In the remainder of that hymn is writ.<br>
+Then soon as with the sign of holy cross<br>
+He bless'd them, they at once leap'd out on land,<br>
+The swiftly as he came return'd. The crew,<br>
+There left, appear'd astounded with the place,<br>
+Gazing around as one who sees new sights.<br>
+<br>From every side the sun darted his beams,<br>
+And with his arrowy radiance from mid heav'n<br>
+Had chas'd the Capricorn, when that strange tribe<br>
+Lifting their eyes towards us: "If ye know,<br>
+Declare what path will Lead us to the mount."<br>
+<br>Them Virgil answer'd. &nbsp;"Ye suppose perchance<br>
+Us well acquainted with this place: but here,<br>
+We, as yourselves, are strangers. &nbsp;Not long erst<br>
+We came, before you but a little space,<br>
+By other road so rough and hard, that now<br>
+The' ascent will seem to us as play." &nbsp;The spirits,<br>
+Who from my breathing had perceiv'd I liv'd,<br>
+Grew pale with wonder. &nbsp;As the multitude<br>
+Flock round a herald, sent with olive branch,<br>
+To hear what news he brings, and in their haste<br>
+Tread one another down, e'en so at sight<br>
+Of me those happy spirits were fix'd, each one<br>
+Forgetful of its errand, to depart,<br>
+Where cleans'd from sin, it might be made all fair.<br>
+<br>Then one I saw darting before the rest<br>
+With such fond ardour to embrace me, I<br>
+To do the like was mov'd. &nbsp;O shadows vain<br>
+Except in outward semblance! thrice my hands<br>
+I clasp'd behind it, they as oft return'd<br>
+Empty into my breast again. &nbsp;Surprise<br>
+I needs must think was painted in my looks,<br>
+For that the shadow smil'd and backward drew.<br>
+To follow it I hasten'd, but with voice<br>
+Of sweetness it enjoin'd me to desist.<br>
+Then who it was I knew, and pray'd of it,<br>
+To talk with me, it would a little pause.<br>
+It answered: "Thee as in my mortal frame<br>
+I lov'd, so loos'd forth it I love thee still,<br>
+And therefore pause; but why walkest thou here?"<br>
+<br>"Not without purpose once more to return,<br>
+Thou find'st me, my Casella, where I am<br>
+Journeying this way;" I said, "but how of thee<br>
+Hath so much time been lost?" &nbsp;He answer'd straight:<br>
+"No outrage hath been done to me, if he<br>
+Who when and whom he chooses takes, me oft<br>
+This passage hath denied, since of just will<br>
+His will he makes. &nbsp;These three months past indeed,<br>
+He, whose chose to enter, with free leave<br>
+Hath taken; whence I wand'ring by the shore<br>
+Where Tyber's wave grows salt, of him gain'd kind<br>
+Admittance, at that river's mouth, tow'rd which<br>
+His wings are pointed, for there always throng<br>
+All such as not to Archeron descend."<br>
+<br>Then I: "If new laws have not quite destroy'd<br>
+Memory and use of that sweet song of love,<br>
+That while all my cares had power to 'swage;<br>
+Please thee with it a little to console<br>
+My spirit, that incumber'd with its frame,<br>
+Travelling so far, of pain is overcome."<br>
+<br>"Love that discourses in my thoughts." &nbsp;He then<br>
+Began in such soft accents, that within<br>
+The sweetness thrills me yet. &nbsp;My gentle guide<br>
+And all who came with him, so well were pleas'd,<br>
+That seem'd naught else might in their thoughts have room.<br>
+<br>Fast fix'd in mute attention to his notes<br>
+We stood, when lo! that old man venerable<br>
+Exclaiming, "How is this, ye tardy spirits?<br>
+What negligence detains you loit'ring here?<br>
+Run to the mountain to cast off those scales,<br>
+That from your eyes the sight of God conceal."<br>
+<br>As a wild flock of pigeons, to their food<br>
+Collected, blade or tares, without their pride<br>
+Accustom'd, and in still and quiet sort,<br>
+If aught alarm them, suddenly desert<br>
+Their meal, assail'd by more important care;<br>
+So I that new-come troop beheld, the song<br>
+Deserting, hasten to the mountain's side,<br>
+As one who goes yet where he tends knows not.<br>
+<br>Nor with less hurried step did we depart.</p>
+
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="3"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO III</h2>
+<br>
+
+
+<p>Them sudden flight had scatter'd over the plain,<br>
+Turn'd tow'rds the mountain, whither reason's voice<br>
+Drives us; I to my faithful company<br>
+Adhering, left it not. &nbsp;For how of him<br>
+Depriv'd, might I have sped, or who beside<br>
+Would o'er the mountainous tract have led my steps<br>
+He with the bitter pang of self-remorse<br>
+Seem'd smitten. &nbsp;O clear conscience and upright<br>
+How doth a little fling wound thee sore!<br>
+<br>Soon as his feet desisted (slack'ning pace),<br>
+From haste, that mars all decency of act,<br>
+My mind, that in itself before was wrapt,<br>
+Its thoughts expanded, as with joy restor'd:<br>
+And full against the steep ascent I set<br>
+My face, where highest to heav'n its top o'erflows.<br>
+<br>The sun, that flar'd behind, with ruddy beam<br>
+Before my form was broken; for in me<br>
+His rays resistance met. &nbsp;I turn'd aside<br>
+With fear of being left, when I beheld<br>
+Only before myself the ground obscur'd.<br>
+When thus my solace, turning him around,<br>
+Bespake me kindly: "Why distrustest thou?<br>
+Believ'st not I am with thee, thy sure guide?<br>
+It now is evening there, where buried lies<br>
+The body, in which I cast a shade, remov'd<br>
+To Naples from Brundusium's wall. &nbsp;Nor thou<br>
+Marvel, if before me no shadow fall,<br>
+More than that in the sky element<br>
+One ray obstructs not other. &nbsp;To endure<br>
+Torments of heat and cold extreme, like frames<br>
+That virtue hath dispos'd, which how it works<br>
+Wills not to us should be reveal'd. &nbsp;Insane<br>
+Who hopes, our reason may that space explore,<br>
+Which holds three persons in one substance knit.<br>
+Seek not the wherefore, race of human kind;<br>
+Could ye have seen the whole, no need had been<br>
+For Mary to bring forth. &nbsp;Moreover ye<br>
+Have seen such men desiring fruitlessly;<br>
+To whose desires repose would have been giv'n,<br>
+That now but serve them for eternal grief.<br>
+I speak of Plato, and the Stagyrite,<br>
+And others many more." &nbsp;And then he bent<br>
+Downwards his forehead, and in troubled mood<br>
+Broke off his speech. &nbsp;Meanwhile we had arriv'd<br>
+Far as the mountain's foot, and there the rock<br>
+Found of so steep ascent, that nimblest steps<br>
+To climb it had been vain. &nbsp;The most remote<br>
+Most wild untrodden path, in all the tract<br>
+'Twixt Lerice and Turbia were to this<br>
+A ladder easy' and open of access.<br>
+<br>"Who knows on which hand now the steep declines?"<br>
+My master said and paus'd, "so that he may<br>
+Ascend, who journeys without aid of wine?"<br>
+And while with looks directed to the ground<br>
+The meaning of the pathway he explor'd,<br>
+And I gaz'd upward round the stony height,<br>
+Of spirits, that toward us mov'd their steps,<br>
+Yet moving seem'd not, they so slow approach'd.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/03-50.jpg"><img alt="03-50th.jpg (35K)" src="images/03-50th.jpg" height="476" width="428"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>I thus my guide address'd: "Upraise thine eyes,<br>
+Lo that way some, of whom thou may'st obtain<br>
+Counsel, if of thyself thou find'st it not!"<br>
+<br>Straightway he look'd, and with free speech replied:<br>
+"Let us tend thither: they but softly come.<br>
+And thou be firm in hope, my son belov'd."<br>
+<br>Now was that people distant far in space<br>
+A thousand paces behind ours, as much<br>
+As at a throw the nervous arm could fling,<br>
+When all drew backward on the messy crags<br>
+Of the steep bank, and firmly stood unmov'd<br>
+As one who walks in doubt might stand to look.<br>
+<br>"O spirits perfect!  O already chosen!"<br>
+Virgil to them began, "by that blest peace,<br>
+Which, as I deem, is for you all prepar'd,<br>
+Instruct us where the mountain low declines,<br>
+So that attempt to mount it be not vain.<br>
+For who knows most, him loss of time most grieves."<br>
+<br>As sheep, that step from forth their fold, by one,<br>
+Or pairs, or three at once; meanwhile the rest<br>
+Stand fearfully, bending the eye and nose<br>
+To ground, and what the foremost does, that do<br>
+The others, gath'ring round her, if she stops,<br>
+Simple and quiet, nor the cause discern;<br>
+So saw I moving to advance the first,<br>
+Who of that fortunate crew were at the head,<br>
+Of modest mien and graceful in their gait.<br>
+When they before me had beheld the light<br>
+From my right side fall broken on the ground,<br>
+So that the shadow reach'd the cave, they stopp'd<br>
+And somewhat back retir'd: the same did all,<br>
+Who follow'd, though unweeting of the cause.<br>
+<br>"Unask'd of you, yet freely I confess,<br>
+This is a human body which ye see.<br>
+That the sun's light is broken on the ground,<br>
+Marvel not: but believe, that not without<br>
+Virtue deriv'd from Heaven, we to climb<br>
+Over this wall aspire." &nbsp;So them bespake<br>
+My master; and that virtuous tribe rejoin'd;<br>
+"Turn, and before you there the entrance lies,"<br>
+Making a signal to us with bent hands.<br>
+<br>Then of them one began. &nbsp;"Whoe'er thou art,<br>
+Who journey'st thus this way, thy visage turn,<br>
+Think if me elsewhere thou hast ever seen."<br>
+<br>I tow'rds him turn'd, and with fix'd eye beheld.<br>
+Comely, and fair, and gentle of aspect,<br>
+He seem'd, but on one brow a gash was mark'd.<br>
+<br>When humbly I disclaim'd to have beheld<br>
+Him ever: "Now behold!" &nbsp;he said, and show'd<br>
+High on his breast a wound: then smiling spake.<br>
+<br>"I am Manfredi, grandson to the Queen<br>
+Costanza: whence I pray thee, when return'd,<br>
+To my fair daughter go, the parent glad<br>
+Of Aragonia and Sicilia's pride;<br>
+And of the truth inform her, if of me<br>
+Aught else be told. &nbsp;When by two mortal blows<br>
+My frame was shatter'd, I betook myself<br>
+Weeping to him, who of free will forgives.<br>
+My sins were horrible; but so wide arms<br>
+Hath goodness infinite, that it receives<br>
+All who turn to it. &nbsp;Had this text divine<br>
+Been of Cosenza's shepherd better scann'd,<br>
+Who then by Clement on my hunt was set,<br>
+Yet at the bridge's head my bones had lain,<br>
+Near Benevento, by the heavy mole<br>
+Protected; but the rain now drenches them,<br>
+And the wind drives, out of the kingdom's bounds,<br>
+Far as the stream of Verde, where, with lights<br>
+Extinguish'd, he remov'd them from their bed.<br>
+Yet by their curse we are not so destroy'd,<br>
+But that the eternal love may turn, while hope<br>
+Retains her verdant blossoms. &nbsp;True it is,<br>
+That such one as in contumacy dies<br>
+Against the holy church, though he repent,<br>
+Must wander thirty-fold for all the time<br>
+In his presumption past; if such decree<br>
+Be not by prayers of good men shorter made<br>
+Look therefore if thou canst advance my bliss;<br>
+Revealing to my good Costanza, how<br>
+Thou hast beheld me, and beside the terms<br>
+Laid on me of that interdict; for here<br>
+By means of those below much profit comes."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="4"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO IV</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>When by sensations of delight or pain,<br>
+That any of our faculties hath seiz'd,<br>
+Entire the soul collects herself, it seems<br>
+She is intent upon that power alone,<br>
+And thus the error is disprov'd which holds<br>
+The soul not singly lighted in the breast.<br>
+And therefore when as aught is heard or seen,<br>
+That firmly keeps the soul toward it turn'd,<br>
+Time passes, and a man perceives it not.<br>
+For that, whereby he hearken, is one power,<br>
+Another that, which the whole spirit hash;<br>
+This is as it were bound, while that is free.<br>
+<br>This found I true by proof, hearing that spirit<br>
+And wond'ring; for full fifty steps aloft<br>
+The sun had measur'd unobserv'd of me,<br>
+When we arriv'd where all with one accord<br>
+The spirits shouted, "Here is what ye ask."<br>
+<br>A larger aperture ofttimes is stopp'd<br>
+With forked stake of thorn by villager,<br>
+When the ripe grape imbrowns, than was the path,<br>
+By which my guide, and I behind him close,<br>
+Ascended solitary, when that troop<br>
+Departing left us. &nbsp;On Sanleo's road<br>
+Who journeys, or to Noli low descends,<br>
+Or mounts Bismantua's height, must use his feet;<br>
+But here a man had need to fly, I mean<br>
+With the swift wing and plumes of high desire,<br>
+Conducted by his aid, who gave me hope,<br>
+And with light furnish'd to direct my way.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/04-31.jpg"><img alt="04-31th.jpg (44K)" src="images/04-31th.jpg" height="476" width="434"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>We through the broken rock ascended, close<br>
+Pent on each side, while underneath the ground<br>
+Ask'd help of hands and feet. &nbsp;When we arriv'd<br>
+Near on the highest ridge of the steep bank,<br>
+Where the plain level open'd I exclaim'd,<br>
+"O master! say which way can we proceed?"<br>
+<br>He answer'd, "Let no step of thine recede.<br>
+Behind me gain the mountain, till to us<br>
+Some practis'd guide appear." &nbsp;That eminence<br>
+Was lofty that no eye might reach its point,<br>
+And the side proudly rising, more than line<br>
+From the mid quadrant to the centre drawn.<br>
+I wearied thus began: "Parent belov'd!<br>
+Turn, and behold how I remain alone,<br>
+If thou stay not."&mdash;"My son!" &nbsp;He straight reply'd,<br>
+"Thus far put forth thy strength;" and to a track<br>
+Pointed, that, on this side projecting, round<br>
+Circles the hill. &nbsp;His words so spurr'd me on,<br>
+That I behind him clamb'ring, forc'd myself,<br>
+Till my feet press'd the circuit plain beneath.<br>
+There both together seated, turn'd we round<br>
+To eastward, whence was our ascent: and oft<br>
+Many beside have with delight look'd back.<br>
+<br>First on the nether shores I turn'd my eyes,<br>
+Then rais'd them to the sun, and wond'ring mark'd<br>
+That from the left it smote us. &nbsp;Soon perceiv'd<br>
+That Poet sage now at the car of light<br>
+Amaz'd I stood, where 'twixt us and the north<br>
+Its course it enter'd. &nbsp;Whence he thus to me:<br>
+"Were Leda's offspring now in company<br>
+Of that broad mirror, that high up and low<br>
+Imparts his light beneath, thou might'st behold<br>
+The ruddy zodiac nearer to the bears<br>
+Wheel, if its ancient course it not forsook.<br>
+How that may be if thou would'st think; within<br>
+Pond'ring, imagine Sion with this mount<br>
+Plac'd on the earth, so that to both be one<br>
+Horizon, and two hemispheres apart,<br>
+Where lies the path that Phaeton ill knew<br>
+To guide his erring chariot: thou wilt see<br>
+How of necessity by this on one<br>
+He passes, while by that on the' other side,<br>
+If with clear view shine intellect attend."<br>
+<br>"Of truth, kind teacher!" &nbsp;I exclaim'd, "so clear<br>
+Aught saw I never, as I now discern<br>
+Where seem'd my ken to fail, that the mid orb<br>
+Of the supernal motion (which in terms<br>
+Of art is called the Equator, and remains<br>
+Ever between the sun and winter) for the cause<br>
+Thou hast assign'd, from hence toward the north<br>
+Departs, when those who in the Hebrew land<br>
+Inhabit, see it tow'rds the warmer part.<br>
+But if it please thee, I would gladly know,<br>
+How far we have to journey: for the hill<br>
+Mounts higher, than this sight of mine can mount."<br>
+<br>He thus to me: "Such is this steep ascent,<br>
+That it is ever difficult at first,<br>
+But, more a man proceeds, less evil grows.<br>
+When pleasant it shall seem to thee, so much<br>
+That upward going shall be easy to thee.<br>
+As in a vessel to go down the tide,<br>
+Then of this path thou wilt have reach'd the end.<br>
+There hope to rest thee from thy toil. &nbsp;No more<br>
+I answer, and thus far for certain know."<br>
+As he his words had spoken, near to us<br>
+A voice there sounded: "Yet ye first perchance<br>
+May to repose you by constraint be led."<br>
+At sound thereof each turn'd, and on the left<br>
+A huge stone we beheld, of which nor I<br>
+Nor he before was ware. &nbsp;Thither we drew,<br>
+find there were some, who in the shady place<br>
+Behind the rock were standing, as a man<br>
+Thru' idleness might stand. &nbsp;Among them one,<br>
+Who seem'd to me much wearied, sat him down,<br>
+And with his arms did fold his knees about,<br>
+Holding his face between them downward bent.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/04-100.jpg"><img alt="04-100th.jpg (63K)" src="images/04-100th.jpg" height="547" width="430"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>"Sweet Sir!" &nbsp;I cry'd, "behold that man, who shows<br>
+Himself more idle, than if laziness<br>
+Were sister to him." &nbsp;Straight he turn'd to us,<br>
+And, o'er the thigh lifting his face, observ'd,<br>
+Then in these accents spake: "Up then, proceed<br>
+Thou valiant one." &nbsp;Straight who it was I knew;<br>
+Nor could the pain I felt (for want of breath<br>
+Still somewhat urg'd me) hinder my approach.<br>
+And when I came to him, he scarce his head<br>
+Uplifted, saying "Well hast thou discern'd,<br>
+How from the left the sun his chariot leads."<br>
+<br>His lazy acts and broken words my lips<br>
+To laughter somewhat mov'd; when I began:<br>
+"Belacqua, now for thee I grieve no more.<br>
+But tell, why thou art seated upright there?<br>
+Waitest thou escort to conduct thee hence?<br>
+Or blame I only shine accustom'd ways?"<br>
+Then he: "My brother, of what use to mount,<br>
+When to my suffering would not let me pass<br>
+The bird of God, who at the portal sits?<br>
+Behooves so long that heav'n first bear me round<br>
+Without its limits, as in life it bore,<br>
+Because I to the end repentant Sighs<br>
+Delay'd, if prayer do not aid me first,<br>
+That riseth up from heart which lives in grace.<br>
+What other kind avails, not heard in heaven?"'<br>
+<br>Before me now the Poet up the mount<br>
+Ascending, cried: "Haste thee, for see the sun<br>
+Has touch'd the point meridian, and the night<br>
+Now covers with her foot Marocco's shore."</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+
+
+<br>
+<br>
+
+
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=4 border=3>
+<tr><td>
+ &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p2.htm">Next Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="8795-h.htm">Main Index</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+ </td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+</body>
+</html>
+
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+<html>
+<head>
+<title>Dante's Purgatory, Part 2.</title>
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+    <!--
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+<body>
+<h2>THE VISION OF PURGATORY, Part 2.</h2>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=4 border=3>
+<tr><td>
+ &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p1.htm">Previous Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="8795-h.htm">Main Index</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p3.htm">Next Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+ </td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+<br><br>
+
+<br><br>
+
+
+
+<center>
+<h1>THE VISION</h1><br>
+<h2>OF</h2><br>
+<h1>HELL, PURGATORY, AND PARADISE</h1><br>
+<h2>BY</h2><br>
+<h1>DANTE ALIGHIERI</h1>
+
+<br><br><br>
+<br><br><br>
+<h2>PURGATORY</h2>
+<h3>Part 2</h3>
+<br><br><br>
+<h3>TRANSLATED BY</h3><br>
+<h2>THE REV. H. F. CARY, M.A.</h2>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/cover.jpg"><img alt="coverth.jpg (42K)" src="images/coverth.jpg" height="478" width="553"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/frontispiece.jpg"><img alt="front2.jpg (41K)" src="images/front2.jpg" height="477" width="431"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/titlepage.jpg"><img alt="title2.jpg (21K)" src="images/title2.jpg" height="535" width="416"></a>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<h1>PURGATORY</h1>
+</center>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<center>
+<h2>LIST OF CANTOS</h2>
+</center>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="Contents">
+<tr><td>
+
+
+<a href="#5">Canto 5</a><br>
+<a href="#6">Canto 6</a><br>
+<a href="#7">Canto 7</a><br>
+<a href="#8">Canto 8</a><br>
+<a href="#9">Canto 9</a><br>
+<a href="#10">Canto 10</a><br>
+
+
+
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<center>
+<table summary="Purgatory">
+<tr><td>
+<br><br>
+
+
+
+
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="5"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO V</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Now had I left those spirits, and pursued<br>
+The steps of my Conductor, when beheld<br>
+Pointing the finger at me one exclaim'd:<br>
+"See how it seems as if the light not shone<br>
+From the left hand of him beneath, and he,<br>
+As living, seems to be led on." &nbsp;Mine eyes<br>
+I at that sound reverting, saw them gaze<br>
+Through wonder first at me, and then at me<br>
+And the light broken underneath, by turns.<br>
+"Why are thy thoughts thus riveted?" &nbsp;my guide<br>
+Exclaim'd, "that thou hast slack'd thy pace? &nbsp;or how<br>
+Imports it thee, what thing is whisper'd here?<br>
+Come after me, and to their babblings leave<br>
+The crowd. Be as a tower, that, firmly set,<br>
+Shakes not its top for any blast that blows!<br>
+He, in whose bosom thought on thought shoots out,<br>
+Still of his aim is wide, in that the one<br>
+Sicklies and wastes to nought the other's strength."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What other could I answer save "I come?"<br>
+I said it, somewhat with that colour ting'd<br>
+Which ofttimes pardon meriteth for man.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile traverse along the hill there came,<br>
+A little way before us, some who sang<br>
+The "Miserere" in responsive Strains.<br>
+When they perceiv'd that through my body I<br>
+Gave way not for the rays to pass, their song<br>
+Straight to a long and hoarse exclaim they chang'd;<br>
+And two of them, in guise of messengers,<br>
+Ran on to meet us, and inquiring ask'd:<br>
+"Of your condition we would gladly learn."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To them my guide. &nbsp;"Ye may return, and bear<br>
+Tidings to them who sent you, that his frame<br>
+Is real flesh. &nbsp;If, as I deem, to view<br>
+His shade they paus'd, enough is answer'd them.<br>
+Him let them honour, they may prize him well."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ne'er saw I fiery vapours with such speed<br>
+Cut through the serene air at fall of night,<br>
+Nor August's clouds athwart the setting sun,<br>
+That upward these did not in shorter space<br>
+Return; and, there arriving, with the rest<br>
+Wheel back on us, as with loose rein a troop.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/05-42.jpg"><img alt="05-42th.jpg (38K)" src="images/05-42th.jpg" height="477" width="428"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Many," exclaim'd the bard, "are these, who throng<br>
+Around us: to petition thee they come.<br>
+Go therefore on, and listen as thou go'st."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"O spirit! who go'st on to blessedness<br>
+With the same limbs, that clad thee at thy birth."<br>
+Shouting they came, "a little rest thy step.<br>
+Look if thou any one amongst our tribe<br>
+Hast e'er beheld, that tidings of him there<br>
+Thou mayst report. &nbsp;Ah, wherefore go'st thou on?<br>
+Ah wherefore tarriest thou not? &nbsp;We all<br>
+By violence died, and to our latest hour<br>
+Were sinners, but then warn'd by light from heav'n,<br>
+So that, repenting and forgiving, we<br>
+Did issue out of life at peace with God,<br>
+Who with desire to see him fills our heart."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then I: "The visages of all I scan<br>
+Yet none of ye remember. &nbsp;But if aught,<br>
+That I can do, may please you, gentle spirits!<br>
+Speak; and I will perform it, by that peace,<br>
+Which on the steps of guide so excellent<br>
+Following from world to world intent I seek."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In answer he began: "None here distrusts<br>
+Thy kindness, though not promis'd with an oath;<br>
+So as the will fail not for want of power.<br>
+Whence I, who sole before the others speak,<br>
+Entreat thee, if thou ever see that land,<br>
+Which lies between Romagna and the realm<br>
+Of Charles, that of thy courtesy thou pray<br>
+Those who inhabit Fano, that for me<br>
+Their adorations duly be put up,<br>
+By which I may purge off my grievous sins.<br>
+From thence I came. &nbsp;But the deep passages,<br>
+Whence issued out the blood wherein I dwelt,<br>
+Upon my bosom in Antenor's land<br>
+Were made, where to be more secure I thought.<br>
+The author of the deed was Este's prince,<br>
+Who, more than right could warrant, with his wrath<br>
+Pursued me. &nbsp;Had I towards Mira fled,<br>
+When overta'en at Oriaco, still<br>
+Might I have breath'd. But to the marsh I sped,<br>
+And in the mire and rushes tangled there<br>
+Fell, and beheld my life-blood float the plain."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then said another: "Ah! so may the wish,<br>
+That takes thee o'er the mountain, be fulfill'd,<br>
+As thou shalt graciously give aid to mine.<br>
+Of Montefeltro I; Buonconte I:<br>
+Giovanna nor none else have care for me,<br>
+Sorrowing with these I therefore go." &nbsp;I thus:<br>
+"From Campaldino's field what force or chance<br>
+Drew thee, that ne'er thy sepulture was known?"<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Oh!" &nbsp;answer'd he, "at Casentino's foot<br>
+A stream there courseth, nam'd Archiano, sprung<br>
+In Apennine above the Hermit's seat.<br>
+E'en where its name is cancel'd, there came I,<br>
+Pierc'd in the heart, fleeing away on foot,<br>
+And bloodying the plain. &nbsp;Here sight and speech<br>
+Fail'd me, and finishing with Mary's name<br>
+I fell, and tenantless my flesh remain'd.<br>
+I will report the truth; which thou again<br>
+Tell to the living. &nbsp;Me God's angel took,<br>
+Whilst he of hell exclaim'd: "O thou from heav'n!<br>
+Say wherefore hast thou robb'd me? &nbsp;Thou of him<br>
+Th' eternal portion bear'st with thee away<br>
+For one poor tear that he deprives me of.<br>
+But of the other, other rule I make."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Thou knowest how in the atmosphere collects<br>
+That vapour dank, returning into water,<br>
+Soon as it mounts where cold condenses it.<br>
+That evil will, which in his intellect<br>
+Still follows evil, came, and rais'd the wind<br>
+And smoky mist, by virtue of the power<br>
+Given by his nature. &nbsp;Thence the valley, soon<br>
+As day was spent, he cover'd o'er with cloud<br>
+From Pratomagno to the mountain range,<br>
+And stretch'd the sky above, so that the air<br>
+Impregnate chang'd to water. &nbsp;Fell the rain,<br>
+And to the fosses came all that the land<br>
+Contain'd not; and, as mightiest streams are wont,<br>
+To the great river with such headlong sweep<br>
+Rush'd, that nought stay'd its course. &nbsp;My stiffen'd frame<br>
+Laid at his mouth the fell Archiano found,<br>
+And dash'd it into Arno, from my breast<br>
+Loos'ning the cross, that of myself I made<br>
+When overcome with pain. &nbsp;He hurl'd me on,<br>
+Along the banks and bottom of his course;<br>
+Then in his muddy spoils encircling wrapt."<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/05-123.jpg"><img alt="05-123th.jpg (44K)" src="images/05-123th.jpg" height="549" width="432"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Ah! when thou to the world shalt be return'd,<br>
+And rested after thy long road," so spake<br>
+Next the third spirit; "then remember me.<br>
+I once was Pia. &nbsp;Sienna gave me life,<br>
+Maremma took it from me. &nbsp;That he knows,<br>
+Who me with jewell'd ring had first espous'd."</p>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/05-130.jpg"><img alt="05-130th.jpg (44K)" src="images/05-130th.jpg" height="461" width="432"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<a name="6"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO VI</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>When from their game of dice men separate,<br>
+He, who hath lost, remains in sadness fix'd,<br>
+Revolving in his mind, what luckless throws<br>
+He cast: but meanwhile all the company<br>
+Go with the other; one before him runs,<br>
+And one behind his mantle twitches, one<br>
+Fast by his side bids him remember him.<br>
+He stops not; and each one, to whom his hand<br>
+Is stretch'd, well knows he bids him stand aside;<br>
+And thus he from the press defends himself.<br>
+E'en such was I in that close-crowding throng;<br>
+And turning so my face around to all,<br>
+And promising, I 'scap'd from it with pains.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Here of Arezzo him I saw, who fell<br>
+By Ghino's cruel arm; and him beside,<br>
+Who in his chase was swallow'd by the stream.<br>
+Here Frederic Novello, with his hand<br>
+Stretch'd forth, entreated; and of Pisa he,<br>
+Who put the good Marzuco to such proof<br>
+Of constancy. &nbsp;Count Orso I beheld;<br>
+And from its frame a soul dismiss'd for spite<br>
+And envy, as it said, but for no crime:<br>
+I speak of Peter de la Brosse; and here,<br>
+While she yet lives, that Lady of Brabant<br>
+Let her beware; lest for so false a deed<br>
+She herd with worse than these. When I was freed<br>
+From all those spirits, who pray'd for others' prayers<br>
+To hasten on their state of blessedness;<br>
+Straight I began: "O thou, my luminary!<br>
+It seems expressly in thy text denied,<br>
+That heaven's supreme decree can never bend<br>
+To supplication; yet with this design<br>
+Do these entreat. &nbsp;Can then their hope be vain,<br>
+Or is thy saying not to me reveal'd?"<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He thus to me: "Both what I write is plain,<br>
+And these deceiv'd not in their hope, if well<br>
+Thy mind consider, that the sacred height<br>
+Of judgment doth not stoop, because love's flame<br>
+In a short moment all fulfils, which he<br>
+Who sojourns here, in right should satisfy.<br>
+Besides, when I this point concluded thus,<br>
+By praying no defect could be supplied;<br>
+Because the pray'r had none access to God.<br>
+Yet in this deep suspicion rest thou not<br>
+Contented unless she assure thee so,<br>
+Who betwixt truth and mind infuses light.<br>
+I know not if thou take me right; I mean<br>
+Beatrice. &nbsp;Her thou shalt behold above,<br>
+Upon this mountain's crown, fair seat of joy."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then I: "Sir! let us mend our speed; for now<br>
+I tire not as before; and lo! the hill<br>
+Stretches its shadow far." &nbsp;He answer'd thus:<br>
+"Our progress with this day shall be as much<br>
+As we may now dispatch; but otherwise<br>
+Than thou supposest is the truth. &nbsp;For there<br>
+Thou canst not be, ere thou once more behold<br>
+Him back returning, who behind the steep<br>
+Is now so hidden, that as erst his beam<br>
+Thou dost not break. &nbsp;But lo! a spirit there<br>
+Stands solitary, and toward us looks:<br>
+It will instruct us in the speediest way."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We soon approach'd it. &nbsp;O thou Lombard spirit!<br>
+How didst thou stand, in high abstracted mood,<br>
+Scarce moving with slow dignity thine eyes!<br>
+It spoke not aught, but let us onward pass,<br>
+Eyeing us as a lion on his watch.<br>
+But Virgil with entreaty mild advanc'd,<br>
+Requesting it to show the best ascent.<br>
+It answer to his question none return'd,<br>
+But of our country and our kind of life<br>
+Demanded. &nbsp;When my courteous guide began,<br>
+"Mantua," the solitary shadow quick<br>
+Rose towards us from the place in which it stood,<br>
+And cry'd, "Mantuan! I am thy countryman<br>
+Sordello." &nbsp;Each the other then embrac'd.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ah slavish Italy! thou inn of grief,<br>
+Vessel without a pilot in loud storm,<br>
+Lady no longer of fair provinces,<br>
+But brothel-house impure! this gentle spirit,<br>
+Ev'n from the Pleasant sound of his dear land<br>
+Was prompt to greet a fellow citizen<br>
+With such glad cheer; while now thy living ones<br>
+In thee abide not without war; and one<br>
+Malicious gnaws another, ay of those<br>
+Whom the same wall and the same moat contains,<br>
+Seek, wretched one! around thy sea-coasts wide;<br>
+Then homeward to thy bosom turn, and mark<br>
+If any part of the sweet peace enjoy.<br>
+What boots it, that thy reins Justinian's hand<br>
+Befitted, if thy saddle be unpress'd?<br>
+Nought doth he now but aggravate thy shame.<br>
+Ah people! thou obedient still shouldst live,<br>
+And in the saddle let thy Caesar sit,<br>
+If well thou marked'st that which God commands.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Look how that beast to felness hath relaps'd<br>
+From having lost correction of the spur,<br>
+Since to the bridle thou hast set thine hand,<br>
+O German Albert! who abandon'st her,<br>
+That is grown savage and unmanageable,<br>
+When thou should'st clasp her flanks with forked heels.<br>
+Just judgment from the stars fall on thy blood!<br>
+And be it strange and manifest to all!<br>
+Such as may strike thy successor with dread!<br>
+For that thy sire and thou have suffer'd thus,<br>
+Through greediness of yonder realms detain'd,<br>
+The garden of the empire to run waste.<br>
+Come see the Capulets and Montagues,<br>
+The Philippeschi and Monaldi! man<br>
+Who car'st for nought! those sunk in grief, and these<br>
+With dire suspicion rack'd. Come, cruel one!<br>
+Come and behold the' oppression of the nobles,<br>
+And mark their injuries: and thou mayst see.<br>
+What safety Santafiore can supply.<br>
+Come and behold thy Rome, who calls on thee,<br>
+Desolate widow! day and night with moans:<br>
+"My Caesar, why dost thou desert my side?"<br>
+Come and behold what love among thy people:<br>
+And if no pity touches thee for us,<br>
+Come and blush for thine own report. &nbsp;For me,<br>
+If it be lawful, O Almighty Power,<br>
+Who wast in earth for our sakes crucified!<br>
+Are thy just eyes turn'd elsewhere? &nbsp;or is this<br>
+A preparation in the wond'rous depth<br>
+Of thy sage counsel made, for some good end,<br>
+Entirely from our reach of thought cut off?<br>
+So are the' Italian cities all o'erthrong'd<br>
+With tyrants, and a great Marcellus made<br>
+Of every petty factious villager.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My Florence! thou mayst well remain unmov'd<br>
+At this digression, which affects not thee:<br>
+Thanks to thy people, who so wisely speed.<br>
+Many have justice in their heart, that long<br>
+Waiteth for counsel to direct the bow,<br>
+Or ere it dart unto its aim: but shine<br>
+Have it on their lip's edge. &nbsp;Many refuse<br>
+To bear the common burdens: readier thine<br>
+Answer uneall'd, and cry, "Behold I stoop!"<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Make thyself glad, for thou hast reason now,<br>
+Thou wealthy! thou at peace! thou wisdom-fraught!<br>
+Facts best witness if I speak the truth.<br>
+Athens and Lacedaemon, who of old<br>
+Enacted laws, for civil arts renown'd,<br>
+Made little progress in improving life<br>
+Tow'rds thee, who usest such nice subtlety,<br>
+That to the middle of November scarce<br>
+Reaches the thread thou in October weav'st.<br>
+How many times, within thy memory,<br>
+Customs, and laws, and coins, and offices<br>
+Have been by thee renew'd, and people chang'd!<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If thou remember'st well and can'st see clear,<br>
+Thou wilt perceive thyself like a sick wretch,<br>
+Who finds no rest upon her down, but oft<br>
+Shifting her side, short respite seeks from pain.</p>
+
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="7"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO VII</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>After their courteous greetings joyfully<br>
+Sev'n times exchang'd, Sordello backward drew<br>
+Exclaiming, "Who are ye?" &nbsp;"Before this mount<br>
+By spirits worthy of ascent to God<br>
+Was sought, my bones had by Octavius' care<br>
+Been buried. &nbsp;I am Virgil, for no sin<br>
+Depriv'd of heav'n, except for lack of faith."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;So answer'd him in few my gentle guide.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As one, who aught before him suddenly<br>
+Beholding, whence his wonder riseth, cries<br>
+"It is yet is not," wav'ring in belief;<br>
+Such he appear'd; then downward bent his eyes,<br>
+And drawing near with reverential step,<br>
+Caught him, where of mean estate might clasp<br>
+His lord. &nbsp;"Glory of Latium!" he exclaim'd,<br>
+"In whom our tongue its utmost power display'd!<br>
+Boast of my honor'd birth-place! what desert<br>
+Of mine, what favour rather undeserv'd,<br>
+Shows thee to me? &nbsp;If I to hear that voice<br>
+Am worthy, say if from below thou com'st<br>
+And from what cloister's pale?"&mdash;"Through every orb<br>
+Of that sad region," he reply'd, "thus far<br>
+Am I arriv'd, by heav'nly influence led<br>
+And with such aid I come. &nbsp;There is a place<br>
+There underneath, not made by torments sad,<br>
+But by dun shades alone; where mourning's voice<br>
+Sounds not of anguish sharp, but breathes in sighs."<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/07-21.jpg"><img alt="07-21th.jpg (40K)" src="images/07-21th.jpg" height="477" width="433"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+There I with little innocents abide,<br>
+Who by death's fangs were bitten, ere exempt<br>
+From human taint. &nbsp;There I with those abide,<br>
+Who the three holy virtues put not on,<br>
+But understood the rest, and without blame<br>
+Follow'd them all. &nbsp;But if thou know'st and canst,<br>
+Direct us, how we soonest may arrive,<br>
+Where Purgatory its true beginning takes."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He answer'd thus: "We have no certain place<br>
+Assign'd us: upwards I may go or round,<br>
+Far as I can, I join thee for thy guide.<br>
+But thou beholdest now how day declines:<br>
+And upwards to proceed by night, our power<br>
+Excels: therefore it may be well to choose<br>
+A place of pleasant sojourn. &nbsp;To the right<br>
+Some spirits sit apart retir'd. &nbsp;If thou<br>
+Consentest, I to these will lead thy steps:<br>
+And thou wilt know them, not without delight."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"How chances this?" &nbsp;was answer'd; "who so wish'd<br>
+To ascend by night, would he be thence debarr'd<br>
+By other, or through his own weakness fail?"<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The good Sordello then, along the ground<br>
+Trailing his finger, spoke: "Only this line<br>
+Thou shalt not overpass, soon as the sun<br>
+Hath disappear'd; not that aught else impedes<br>
+Thy going upwards, save the shades of night.<br>
+These with the wont of power perplex the will.<br>
+With them thou haply mightst return beneath,<br>
+Or to and fro around the mountain's side<br>
+Wander, while day is in the horizon shut."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;My master straight, as wond'ring at his speech,<br>
+Exclaim'd: "Then lead us quickly, where thou sayst,<br>
+That, while we stay, we may enjoy delight."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A little space we were remov'd from thence,<br>
+When I perceiv'd the mountain hollow'd out.<br>
+Ev'n as large valleys hollow'd out on earth,<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"That way," the' escorting spirit cried, "we go,<br>
+Where in a bosom the high bank recedes:<br>
+And thou await renewal of the day."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Betwixt the steep and plain a crooked path<br>
+Led us traverse into the ridge's side,<br>
+Where more than half the sloping edge expires.<br>
+Refulgent gold, and silver thrice refin'd,<br>
+And scarlet grain and ceruse, Indian wood<br>
+Of lucid dye serene, fresh emeralds<br>
+But newly broken, by the herbs and flowers<br>
+Plac'd in that fair recess, in color all<br>
+Had been surpass'd, as great surpasses less.<br>
+Nor nature only there lavish'd her hues,<br>
+But of the sweetness of a thousand smells<br>
+A rare and undistinguish'd fragrance made.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/07-82.jpg"><img alt="07-82th.jpg (43K)" src="images/07-82th.jpg" height="477" width="433"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Salve Regina," on the grass and flowers<br>
+Here chanting I beheld those spirits sit<br>
+Who not beyond the valley could be seen.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Before the west'ring sun sink to his bed,"<br>
+Began the Mantuan, who our steps had turn'd,<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"'Mid those desires not that I lead ye on.<br>
+For from this eminence ye shall discern<br>
+Better the acts and visages of all,<br>
+Than in the nether vale among them mix'd.<br>
+He, who sits high above the rest, and seems<br>
+To have neglected that he should have done,<br>
+And to the others' song moves not his lip,<br>
+The Emperor Rodolph call, who might have heal'd<br>
+The wounds whereof fair Italy hath died,<br>
+So that by others she revives but slowly,<br>
+He, who with kindly visage comforts him,<br>
+Sway'd in that country, where the water springs,<br>
+That Moldaw's river to the Elbe, and Elbe<br>
+Rolls to the ocean: Ottocar his name:<br>
+Who in his swaddling clothes was of more worth<br>
+Than Winceslaus his son, a bearded man,<br>
+Pamper'd with rank luxuriousness and ease.<br>
+And that one with the nose depress, who close<br>
+In counsel seems with him of gentle look,<br>
+Flying expir'd, with'ring the lily's flower.<br>
+Look there how he doth knock against his breast!<br>
+The other ye behold, who for his cheek<br>
+Makes of one hand a couch, with frequent sighs.<br>
+They are the father and the father-in-law<br>
+Of Gallia's bane: his vicious life they know<br>
+And foul; thence comes the grief that rends them thus.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"He, so robust of limb, who measure keeps<br>
+In song, with him of feature prominent,<br>
+With ev'ry virtue bore his girdle brac'd.<br>
+And if that stripling who behinds him sits,<br>
+King after him had liv'd, his virtue then<br>
+From vessel to like vessel had been pour'd;<br>
+Which may not of the other heirs be said.<br>
+By James and Frederick his realms are held;<br>
+Neither the better heritage obtains.<br>
+Rarely into the branches of the tree<br>
+Doth human worth mount up; and so ordains<br>
+He who bestows it, that as his free gift<br>
+It may be call'd. &nbsp;To Charles my words apply<br>
+No less than to his brother in the song;<br>
+Which Pouille and Provence now with grief confess.<br>
+So much that plant degenerates from its seed,<br>
+As more than Beatrice and Margaret<br>
+Costanza still boasts of her valorous spouse.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Behold the king of simple life and plain,<br>
+Harry of England, sitting there alone:<br>
+He through his branches better issue spreads.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"That one, who on the ground beneath the rest<br>
+Sits lowest, yet his gaze directs aloft,<br>
+Us William, that brave Marquis, for whose cause<br>
+The deed of Alexandria and his war<br>
+Makes Conferrat and Canavese weep."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="8"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO VIII</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Now was the hour that wakens fond desire<br>
+In men at sea, and melts their thoughtful heart,<br>
+Who in the morn have bid sweet friends farewell,<br>
+And pilgrim newly on his road with love<br>
+Thrills, if he hear the vesper bell from far,<br>
+That seems to mourn for the expiring day:<br>
+When I, no longer taking heed to hear<br>
+Began, with wonder, from those spirits to mark<br>
+One risen from its seat, which with its hand<br>
+Audience implor'd. Both palms it join'd and rais'd,<br>
+Fixing its steadfast gaze towards the east,<br>
+As telling God, "I care for naught beside."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Te Lucis Ante," so devoutly then<br>
+Came from its lip, and in so soft a strain,<br>
+That all my sense in ravishment was lost.<br>
+And the rest after, softly and devout,<br>
+Follow'd through all the hymn, with upward gaze<br>
+Directed to the bright supernal wheels.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Here, reader! for the truth makes thine eyes keen:<br>
+For of so subtle texture is this veil,<br>
+That thou with ease mayst pass it through unmark'd.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I saw that gentle band silently next<br>
+Look up, as if in expectation held,<br>
+Pale and in lowly guise; and from on high<br>
+I saw forth issuing descend beneath<br>
+Two angels with two flame-illumin'd swords,<br>
+Broken and mutilated at their points.<br>
+Green as the tender leaves but newly born,<br>
+Their vesture was, the which by wings as green<br>
+Beaten, they drew behind them, fann'd in air.<br>
+A little over us one took his stand,<br>
+The other lighted on the' Opposing hill,<br>
+So that the troop were in the midst contain'd.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Well I descried the whiteness on their heads;<br>
+But in their visages the dazzled eye<br>
+Was lost, as faculty that by too much<br>
+Is overpower'd. &nbsp;"From Mary's bosom both<br>
+Are come," exclaim'd Sordello, "as a guard<br>
+Over the vale, ganst him, who hither tends,<br>
+The serpent." &nbsp;Whence, not knowing by which path<br>
+He came, I turn'd me round, and closely press'd,<br>
+All frozen, to my leader's trusted side.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sordello paus'd not: "To the valley now<br>
+(For it is time) let us descend; and hold<br>
+Converse with those great shadows: haply much<br>
+Their sight may please ye." &nbsp;Only three steps down<br>
+Methinks I measur'd, ere I was beneath,<br>
+And noted one who look'd as with desire<br>
+To know me. &nbsp;Time was now that air arrow dim;<br>
+Yet not so dim, that 'twixt his eyes and mine<br>
+It clear'd not up what was conceal'd before.<br>
+Mutually tow'rds each other we advanc'd.<br>
+Nino, thou courteous judge! what joy I felt,<br>
+When I perceiv'd thou wert not with the bad!<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;No salutation kind on either part<br>
+Was left unsaid. &nbsp;He then inquir'd: "How long<br>
+Since thou arrived'st at the mountain's foot,<br>
+Over the distant waves?"&mdash;"O!" answer'd I,<br>
+"Through the sad seats of woe this morn I came,<br>
+And still in my first life, thus journeying on,<br>
+The other strive to gain." &nbsp;Soon as they heard<br>
+My words, he and Sordello backward drew,<br>
+As suddenly amaz'd. &nbsp;To Virgil one,<br>
+The other to a spirit turn'd, who near<br>
+Was seated, crying: "Conrad! up with speed:<br>
+Come, see what of his grace high God hath will'd."<br>
+Then turning round to me: "By that rare mark<br>
+Of honour which thou ow'st to him, who hides<br>
+So deeply his first cause, it hath no ford,<br>
+When thou shalt be beyond the vast of waves.<br>
+Tell my Giovanna, that for me she call<br>
+There, where reply to innocence is made.<br>
+Her mother, I believe, loves me no more;<br>
+Since she has chang'd the white and wimpled folds,<br>
+Which she is doom'd once more with grief to wish.<br>
+By her it easily may be perceiv'd,<br>
+How long in women lasts the flame of love,<br>
+If sight and touch do not relume it oft.<br>
+For her so fair a burial will not make<br>
+The viper which calls Milan to the field,<br>
+As had been made by shrill Gallura's bird."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He spoke, and in his visage took the stamp<br>
+Of that right seal, which with due temperature<br>
+Glows in the bosom. &nbsp;My insatiate eyes<br>
+Meanwhile to heav'n had travel'd, even there<br>
+Where the bright stars are slowest, as a wheel<br>
+Nearest the axle; when my guide inquir'd:<br>
+"What there aloft, my son, has caught thy gaze?"<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I answer'd: "The three torches, with which here<br>
+The pole is all on fire." &nbsp;He then to me:<br>
+"The four resplendent stars, thou saw'st this morn<br>
+Are there beneath, and these ris'n in their stead."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;While yet he spoke. &nbsp;Sordello to himself<br>
+Drew him, and cry'd: "Lo there our enemy!"<br>
+And with his hand pointed that way to look.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Along the side, where barrier none arose<br>
+Around the little vale, a serpent lay,<br>
+Such haply as gave Eve the bitter food.<br>
+Between the grass and flowers, the evil snake<br>
+Came on, reverting oft his lifted head;<br>
+And, as a beast that smoothes its polish'd coat,<br>
+Licking his hack. &nbsp;I saw not, nor can tell,<br>
+How those celestial falcons from their seat<br>
+Mov'd, but in motion each one well descried,<br>
+Hearing the air cut by their verdant plumes.<br>
+The serpent fled; and to their stations back<br>
+The angels up return'd with equal flight.<br>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/frontispiece.jpg"><img alt="front2.jpg (41K)" src="images/front2.jpg" height="477" width="431"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Spirit (who to Nino, when he call'd,<br>
+Had come), from viewing me with fixed ken,<br>
+Through all that conflict, loosen'd not his sight.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"So may the lamp, which leads thee up on high,<br>
+Find, in thy destin'd lot, of wax so much,<br>
+As may suffice thee to the enamel's height."<br>
+It thus began: "If any certain news<br>
+Of Valdimagra and the neighbour part<br>
+Thou know'st, tell me, who once was mighty there<br>
+They call'd me Conrad Malaspina, not<br>
+That old one, but from him I sprang. &nbsp;The love<br>
+I bore my people is now here refin'd."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"In your dominions," I answer'd, "ne'er was I.<br>
+But through all Europe where do those men dwell,<br>
+To whom their glory is not manifest?<br>
+The fame, that honours your illustrious house,<br>
+Proclaims the nobles and proclaims the land;<br>
+So that he knows it who was never there.<br>
+I swear to you, so may my upward route<br>
+Prosper! your honour'd nation not impairs<br>
+The value of her coffer and her sword.<br>
+Nature and use give her such privilege,<br>
+That while the world is twisted from his course<br>
+By a bad head, she only walks aright,<br>
+And has the evil way in scorn." &nbsp;He then:<br>
+"Now pass thee on: sev'n times the tired sun<br>
+Revisits not the couch, which with four feet<br>
+The forked Aries covers, ere that kind<br>
+Opinion shall be nail'd into thy brain<br>
+With stronger nails than other's speech can drive,<br>
+If the sure course of judgment be not stay'd."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="9"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO IX</h2>
+
+<br><br>
+<a href="images/09-1.jpg"><img alt="09-1th.jpg (28K)" src="images/09-1th.jpg" height="458" width="428"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<p>Now the fair consort of Tithonus old,<br>
+Arisen from her mate's beloved arms,<br>
+Look'd palely o'er the eastern cliff: her brow,<br>
+Lucent with jewels, glitter'd, set in sign<br>
+Of that chill animal, who with his train<br>
+Smites fearful nations: and where then we were,<br>
+Two steps of her ascent the night had past,<br>
+And now the third was closing up its wing,<br>
+When I, who had so much of Adam with me,<br>
+Sank down upon the grass, o'ercome with sleep,<br>
+There where all five were seated. &nbsp;In that hour,<br>
+When near the dawn the swallow her sad lay,<br>
+Rememb'ring haply ancient grief, renews,<br>
+And with our minds more wand'rers from the flesh,<br>
+And less by thought restrain'd are, as 't were, full<br>
+Of holy divination in their dreams,<br>
+Then in a vision did I seem to view<br>
+A golden-feather'd eagle in the sky,<br>
+With open wings, and hov'ring for descent,<br>
+And I was in that place, methought, from whence<br>
+Young Ganymede, from his associates 'reft,<br>
+Was snatch'd aloft to the high consistory.<br>
+"Perhaps," thought I within me, "here alone<br>
+He strikes his quarry, and elsewhere disdains<br>
+To pounce upon the prey." &nbsp;Therewith, it seem'd,<br>
+A little wheeling in his airy tour<br>
+Terrible as the lightning rush'd he down,<br>
+And snatch'd me upward even to the fire.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/09-29.jpg"><img alt="09-29th.jpg (42K)" src="images/09-29th.jpg" height="477" width="438"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+There both, I thought, the eagle and myself<br>
+Did burn; and so intense th' imagin'd flames,<br>
+That needs my sleep was broken off. &nbsp;As erst<br>
+Achilles shook himself, and round him roll'd<br>
+His waken'd eyeballs wond'ring where he was,<br>
+Whenas his mother had from Chiron fled<br>
+To Scyros, with him sleeping in her arms;<br>
+E'en thus I shook me, soon as from my face<br>
+The slumber parted, turning deadly pale,<br>
+Like one ice-struck with dread. &nbsp;Solo at my side<br>
+My comfort stood: and the bright sun was now<br>
+More than two hours aloft: and to the sea<br>
+My looks were turn'd. &nbsp;"Fear not," my master cried,<br>
+"Assur'd we are at happy point. &nbsp;Thy strength<br>
+Shrink not, but rise dilated. &nbsp;Thou art come<br>
+To Purgatory now. &nbsp;Lo! there the cliff<br>
+That circling bounds it! &nbsp;Lo! the entrance there,<br>
+Where it doth seem disparted!  Ere the dawn<br>
+Usher'd the daylight, when thy wearied soul<br>
+Slept in thee, o'er the flowery vale beneath<br>
+A lady came, and thus bespake me: I<br>
+Am Lucia. &nbsp;Suffer me to take this man,<br>
+Who slumbers. &nbsp;Easier so his way shall speed."<br>
+Sordello and the other gentle shapes<br>
+Tarrying, she bare thee up: and, as day shone,<br>
+This summit reach'd: and I pursued her steps.<br>
+Here did she place thee. &nbsp;First her lovely eyes<br>
+That open entrance show'd me; then at once<br>
+She vanish'd with thy sleep." &nbsp;Like one, whose doubts<br>
+Are chas'd by certainty, and terror turn'd<br>
+To comfort on discovery of the truth,<br>
+Such was the change in me: and as my guide<br>
+Beheld me fearless, up along the cliff<br>
+He mov'd, and I behind him, towards the height.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Reader! thou markest how my theme doth rise,<br>
+Nor wonder therefore, if more artfully<br>
+I prop the structure!  Nearer now we drew,<br>
+Arriv'd' whence in that part, where first a breach<br>
+As of a wall appear'd, I could descry<br>
+A portal, and three steps beneath, that led<br>
+For inlet there, of different colour each,<br>
+And one who watch'd, but spake not yet a word.<br>
+As more and more mine eye did stretch its view,<br>
+I mark'd him seated on the highest step,<br>
+In visage such, as past my power to bear.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/09-74.jpg"><img alt="09-74th.jpg (41K)" src="images/09-74th.jpg" height="541" width="429"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+Grasp'd in his hand a naked sword, glanc'd back<br>
+The rays so toward me, that I oft in vain<br>
+My sight directed. &nbsp;"Speak from whence ye stand:"<br>
+He cried: "What would ye? &nbsp;Where is your escort?<br>
+Take heed your coming upward harm ye not."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"A heavenly dame, not skilless of these things,"<br>
+Replied the' instructor, "told us, even now,<br>
+'Pass that way: here the gate is."&mdash;"And may she<br>
+Befriending prosper your ascent," resum'd<br>
+The courteous keeper of the gate: "Come then<br>
+Before our steps." &nbsp;We straightway thither came.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The lowest stair was marble white so smooth<br>
+And polish'd, that therein my mirror'd form<br>
+Distinct I saw. &nbsp;The next of hue more dark<br>
+Than sablest grain, a rough and singed block,<br>
+Crack'd lengthwise and across. &nbsp;The third, that lay<br>
+Massy above, seem'd porphyry, that flam'd<br>
+Red as the life-blood spouting from a vein.<br>
+On this God's angel either foot sustain'd,<br>
+Upon the threshold seated, which appear'd<br>
+A rock of diamond. &nbsp;Up the trinal steps<br>
+My leader cheerily drew me. &nbsp;"Ask," said he,<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"With humble heart, that he unbar the bolt."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Piously at his holy feet devolv'd<br>
+I cast me, praying him for pity's sake<br>
+That he would open to me: but first fell<br>
+Thrice on my bosom prostrate. &nbsp;Seven times<br>
+The letter, that denotes the inward stain,<br>
+He on my forehead with the blunted point<br>
+Of his drawn sword inscrib'd. &nbsp;And "Look," he cried,<br>
+"When enter'd, that thou wash these scars away."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ashes, or earth ta'en dry out of the ground,<br>
+Were of one colour with the robe he wore.<br>
+From underneath that vestment forth he drew<br>
+Two keys of metal twain: the one was gold,<br>
+Its fellow silver. &nbsp;With the pallid first,<br>
+And next the burnish'd, he so ply'd the gate,<br>
+As to content me well. &nbsp;"Whenever one<br>
+Faileth of these, that in the keyhole straight<br>
+It turn not, to this alley then expect<br>
+Access in vain." &nbsp;Such were the words he spake.<br>
+"One is more precious: but the other needs<br>
+Skill and sagacity, large share of each,<br>
+Ere its good task to disengage the knot<br>
+Be worthily perform'd. &nbsp;From Peter these<br>
+I hold, of him instructed, that I err<br>
+Rather in opening than in keeping fast;<br>
+So but the suppliant at my feet implore."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then of that hallow'd gate he thrust the door,<br>
+Exclaiming, "Enter, but this warning hear:<br>
+He forth again departs who looks behind."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As in the hinges of that sacred ward<br>
+The swivels turn'd, sonorous metal strong,<br>
+Harsh was the grating; nor so surlily<br>
+Roar'd the Tarpeian, when by force bereft<br>
+Of good Metellus, thenceforth from his loss<br>
+To leanness doom'd. &nbsp;Attentively I turn'd,<br>
+List'ning the thunder, that first issued forth;<br>
+And "We praise thee, O God," methought I heard<br>
+In accents blended with sweet melody.<br>
+The strains came o'er mine ear, e'en as the sound<br>
+Of choral voices, that in solemn chant<br>
+With organ mingle, and, now high and clear,<br>
+Come swelling, now float indistinct away.</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="10"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO X</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>When we had passed the threshold of the gate<br>
+(Which the soul's ill affection doth disuse,<br>
+Making the crooked seem the straighter path),<br>
+I heard its closing sound. &nbsp;Had mine eyes turn'd,<br>
+For that offence what plea might have avail'd?<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We mounted up the riven rock, that wound<br>
+On either side alternate, as the wave<br>
+Flies and advances. &nbsp;"Here some little art<br>
+Behooves us," said my leader, "that our steps<br>
+Observe the varying flexure of the path."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Thus we so slowly sped, that with cleft orb<br>
+The moon once more o'erhangs her wat'ry couch,<br>
+Ere we that strait have threaded. &nbsp;But when free<br>
+We came and open, where the mount above<br>
+One solid mass retires, I spent, with toil,<br>
+And both, uncertain of the way, we stood,<br>
+Upon a plain more lonesome, than the roads<br>
+That traverse desert wilds. &nbsp;From whence the brink<br>
+Borders upon vacuity, to foot<br>
+Of the steep bank, that rises still, the space<br>
+Had measur'd thrice the stature of a man:<br>
+And, distant as mine eye could wing its flight,<br>
+To leftward now and now to right dispatch'd,<br>
+That cornice equal in extent appear'd.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not yet our feet had on that summit mov'd,<br>
+When I discover'd that the bank around,<br>
+Whose proud uprising all ascent denied,<br>
+Was marble white, and so exactly wrought<br>
+With quaintest sculpture, that not there alone<br>
+Had Polycletus, but e'en nature's self<br>
+Been sham'd. &nbsp;The angel who came down to earth<br>
+With tidings of the peace so many years<br>
+Wept for in vain, that op'd the heavenly gates<br>
+From their long interdict before us seem'd,<br>
+In a sweet act, so sculptur'd to the life,<br>
+He look'd no silent image. One had sworn<br>
+He had said, "Hail!" for she was imag'd there,<br>
+By whom the key did open to God's love,<br>
+And in her act as sensibly impress<br>
+That word, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord,"<br>
+As figure seal'd on wax. &nbsp;"Fix not thy mind<br>
+On one place only," said the guide belov'd,<br>
+Who had me near him on that part where lies<br>
+The heart of man. &nbsp;My sight forthwith I turn'd<br>
+And mark'd, behind the virgin mother's form,<br>
+Upon that side, where he, that mov'd me, stood,<br>
+Another story graven on the rock.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I passed athwart the bard, and drew me near,<br>
+That it might stand more aptly for my view.<br>
+There in the self-same marble were engrav'd<br>
+The cart and kine, drawing the sacred ark,<br>
+That from unbidden office awes mankind.<br>
+Before it came much people; and the whole<br>
+Parted in seven quires. &nbsp;One sense cried, "Nay,"<br>
+Another, "Yes, they sing." &nbsp;Like doubt arose<br>
+Betwixt the eye and smell, from the curl'd fume<br>
+Of incense breathing up the well-wrought toil.<br>
+Preceding the blest vessel, onward came<br>
+With light dance leaping, girt in humble guise,<br>
+Sweet Israel's harper: in that hap he seem'd<br>
+Less and yet more than kingly. &nbsp;Opposite,<br>
+At a great palace, from the lattice forth<br>
+Look'd Michol, like a lady full of scorn<br>
+And sorrow. &nbsp;To behold the tablet next,<br>
+Which at the hack of Michol whitely shone,<br>
+I mov'd me. &nbsp;There was storied on the rock<br>
+The' exalted glory of the Roman prince,<br>
+Whose mighty worth mov'd Gregory to earn<br>
+His mighty conquest, Trajan th' Emperor.<br>
+A widow at his bridle stood, attir'd<br>
+In tears and mourning. &nbsp;Round about them troop'd<br>
+Full throng of knights, and overhead in gold<br>
+The eagles floated, struggling with the wind.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/10-74.jpg"><img alt="10-74th.jpg (40K)" src="images/10-74th.jpg" height="476" width="433"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+The wretch appear'd amid all these to say:<br>
+"Grant vengeance, sire! for, woe beshrew this heart<br>
+My son is murder'd." &nbsp;He replying seem'd;<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Wait now till I return." And she, as one<br>
+Made hasty by her grief; "O sire, if thou<br>
+Dost not return?"&mdash;"Where I am, who then is,<br>
+May right thee."&mdash;"What to thee is other's good,<br>
+If thou neglect thy own?"&mdash;"Now comfort thee,"<br>
+At length he answers. &nbsp;"It beseemeth well<br>
+My duty be perform'd, ere I move hence:<br>
+So justice wills; and pity bids me stay."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He, whose ken nothing new surveys, produc'd<br>
+That visible speaking, new to us and strange<br>
+The like not found on earth. &nbsp;Fondly I gaz'd<br>
+Upon those patterns of meek humbleness,<br>
+Shapes yet more precious for their artist's sake,<br>
+When "Lo," the poet whisper'd, "where this way<br>
+(But slack their pace), a multitude advance.<br>
+These to the lofty steps shall guide us on."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mine eyes, though bent on view of novel sights<br>
+Their lov'd allurement, were not slow to turn.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Reader! I would not that amaz'd thou miss<br>
+Of thy good purpose, hearing how just God<br>
+Decrees our debts be cancel'd. &nbsp;Ponder not<br>
+The form of suff'ring. &nbsp;Think on what succeeds,<br>
+Think that at worst beyond the mighty doom<br>
+It cannot pass. &nbsp;"Instructor," I began,<br>
+"What I see hither tending, bears no trace<br>
+Of human semblance, nor of aught beside<br>
+That my foil'd sight can guess." &nbsp;He answering thus:<br>
+"So courb'd to earth, beneath their heavy teems<br>
+Of torment stoop they, that mine eye at first<br>
+Struggled as thine. &nbsp;But look intently thither,<br>
+An disentangle with thy lab'ring view,<br>
+What underneath those stones approacheth: now,<br>
+E'en now, mayst thou discern the pangs of each."<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Christians and proud!  O poor and wretched ones!<br>
+That feeble in the mind's eye, lean your trust<br>
+Upon unstaid perverseness!  Know ye not<br>
+That we are worms, yet made at last to form<br>
+The winged insect, imp'd with angel plumes<br>
+That to heaven's justice unobstructed soars?<br>
+Why buoy ye up aloft your unfleg'd souls?<br>
+Abortive then and shapeless ye remain,<br>
+Like the untimely embryon of a worm!<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As, to support incumbent floor or roof,<br>
+For corbel is a figure sometimes seen,<br>
+That crumples up its knees unto its breast,<br>
+With the feign'd posture stirring ruth unfeign'd<br>
+In the beholder's fancy; so I saw<br>
+These fashion'd, when I noted well their guise.<br>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Each, as his back was laden, came indeed<br>
+Or more or less contract; but it appear'd<br>
+As he, who show'd most patience in his look,<br>
+Wailing exclaim'd: "I can endure no more."</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+
+
+<br>
+<br>
+
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=4 border=3>
+<tr><td>
+ &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p1.htm">Previous Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="8795-h.htm">Main Index</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p3.htm">Next Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
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+</table>
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+<br><br>
+
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+</html>
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+<title>Dante's Purgatory, Part 3.</title>
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+<body>
+<h2>THE VISION OF PURGATORY, Part 3.</h2>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=4 border=3>
+<tr><td>
+ &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p2.htm">Previous Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="8795-h.htm">Main Index</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p4.htm">Next Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+ </td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+
+<center>
+<h1>THE VISION</h1><br>
+<h2>OF</h2><br>
+<h1>HELL, PURGATORY, AND PARADISE</h1><br>
+<h2>BY</h2><br>
+<h1>DANTE ALIGHIERI</h1>
+
+<br><br><br>
+<br><br><br>
+<h2>PURGATORY</h2>
+<h3>Part 3</h3>
+<br><br><br>
+<h3>TRANSLATED BY</h3><br>
+<h2>THE REV. H. F. CARY, M.A.</h2>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/cover.jpg"><img alt="coverth.jpg (42K)" src="images/coverth.jpg" height="478" width="553"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/frontispiece.jpg"><img alt="front2.jpg (41K)" src="images/front2.jpg" height="477" width="431"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/titlepage.jpg"><img alt="title2.jpg (21K)" src="images/title2.jpg" height="535" width="416"></a>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<h1>PURGATORY</h1>
+</center>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<center>
+<h2>LIST OF CANTOS</h2>
+</center>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="Contents">
+<tr><td>
+
+
+<a href="#11">Canto 11</a><br>
+<a href="#12">Canto 12</a><br>
+<a href="#13">Canto 13</a><br>
+<a href="#14">Canto 14</a><br>
+<a href="#15">Canto 15</a><br>
+<a href="#16">Canto 16</a><br>
+<a href="#17">Canto 17</a><br>
+<a href="#18">Canto 18</a><br>
+
+
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<center>
+<table summary="Purgatory">
+<tr><td>
+<br><br>
+
+
+
+
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="11"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XI</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>"O thou Almighty Father, who dost make<br>
+The heavens thy dwelling, not in bounds confin'd,<br>
+But that with love intenser there thou view'st<br>
+Thy primal effluence, hallow'd be thy name:<br>
+Join each created being to extol<br>
+Thy might, for worthy humblest thanks and praise<br>
+Is thy blest Spirit. &nbsp;May thy kingdom's peace<br>
+Come unto us; for we, unless it come,<br>
+With all our striving thither tend in vain.<br>
+As of their will the angels unto thee<br>
+Tender meet sacrifice, circling thy throne<br>
+With loud hosannas, so of theirs be done<br>
+By saintly men on earth. &nbsp;Grant us this day<br>
+Our daily manna, without which he roams<br>
+Through this rough desert retrograde, who most<br>
+Toils to advance his steps. &nbsp;As we to each<br>
+Pardon the evil done us, pardon thou<br>
+Benign, and of our merit take no count.<br>
+'Gainst the old adversary prove thou not<br>
+Our virtue easily subdu'd; but free<br>
+From his incitements and defeat his wiles.<br>
+This last petition, dearest Lord! is made<br>
+Not for ourselves, since that were needless now,<br>
+But for their sakes who after us remain."<br>
+<br>Thus for themselves and us good speed imploring,<br>
+Those spirits went beneath a weight like that<br>
+We sometimes feel in dreams, all, sore beset,<br>
+But with unequal anguish, wearied all,<br>
+Round the first circuit, purging as they go,<br>
+The world's gross darkness off: In our behalf<br>
+If there vows still be offer'd, what can here<br>
+For them be vow'd and done by such, whose wills<br>
+Have root of goodness in them? &nbsp;Well beseems<br>
+That we should help them wash away the stains<br>
+They carried hence, that so made pure and light,<br>
+They may spring upward to the starry spheres.<br>
+<br>"Ah! &nbsp;so may mercy-temper'd justice rid<br>
+Your burdens speedily, that ye have power<br>
+To stretch your wing, which e'en to your desire<br>
+Shall lift you, as ye show us on which hand<br>
+Toward the ladder leads the shortest way.<br>
+And if there be more passages than one,<br>
+Instruct us of that easiest to ascend;<br>
+For this man who comes with me, and bears yet<br>
+The charge of fleshly raiment Adam left him,<br>
+Despite his better will but slowly mounts."<br>
+From whom the answer came unto these words,<br>
+Which my guide spake, appear'd not; but 'twas said.<br>
+<br>"Along the bank to rightward come with us,<br>
+And ye shall find a pass that mocks not toil<br>
+Of living man to climb: and were it not<br>
+That I am hinder'd by the rock, wherewith<br>
+This arrogant neck is tam'd, whence needs I stoop<br>
+My visage to the ground, him, who yet lives,<br>
+Whose name thou speak'st not him I fain would view.<br>
+To mark if e'er I knew him? &nbsp;and to crave<br>
+His pity for the fardel that I bear.<br>
+I was of Latiun, &nbsp;of a Tuscan horn<br>
+A mighty one: Aldobranlesco's name<br>
+My sire's, I know not if ye e'er have heard.<br>
+My old blood and forefathers' gallant deeds<br>
+Made me so haughty, that I clean forgot<br>
+The common mother, and to such excess,<br>
+Wax'd in my scorn of all men, that I fell,<br>
+Fell therefore; by what fate Sienna's sons,<br>
+Each child in Campagnatico, can tell.<br>
+I am Omberto; not me only pride<br>
+Hath injur'd, but my kindred all involv'd<br>
+In mischief with her. &nbsp;Here my lot ordains<br>
+Under this weight to groan, till I appease<br>
+God's angry justice, since I did it not<br>
+Amongst the living, here amongst the dead."<br>
+<br>List'ning I bent my visage down: and one<br>
+(Not he who spake) twisted beneath the weight<br>
+That urg'd him, saw me, knew me straight, and call'd,<br>
+Holding his eyes With difficulty fix'd<br>
+Intent upon me, stooping as I went<br>
+Companion of their way. &nbsp;"O!" &nbsp;I exclaim'd,<br>
+<br>"Art thou not Oderigi, art not thou<br>
+Agobbio's glory, glory of that art<br>
+Which they of Paris call the limmer's skill?"<br>
+<br>"Brother!" said he, "with tints that gayer smile,<br>
+Bolognian Franco's pencil lines the leaves.<br>
+His all the honour now; mine borrow'd light.<br>
+In truth I had not been thus courteous to him,<br>
+The whilst I liv'd, through eagerness of zeal<br>
+For that pre-eminence my heart was bent on.<br>
+Here of such pride the forfeiture is paid.<br>
+Nor were I even here; if, able still<br>
+To sin, I had not turn'd me unto God.<br>
+O powers of man! &nbsp;how vain your glory, nipp'd<br>
+E'en in its height of verdure, if an age<br>
+Less bright succeed not! &nbsp;Cimabue thought<br>
+To lord it over painting's field; and now<br>
+The cry is Giotto's, and his name eclips'd.<br>
+Thus hath one Guido from the other snatch'd<br>
+The letter'd prize: and he perhaps is born,<br>
+Who shall drive either from their nest. &nbsp;The noise<br>
+Of worldly fame is but a blast of wind,<br>
+That blows from divers points, and shifts its name<br>
+Shifting the point it blows from. &nbsp;Shalt thou more<br>
+Live in the mouths of mankind, if thy flesh<br>
+Part shrivel'd from thee, than if thou hadst died,<br>
+Before the coral and the pap were left,<br>
+Or ere some thousand years have passed? and that<br>
+Is, to eternity compar'd, a space,<br>
+Briefer than is the twinkling of an eye<br>
+To the heaven's slowest orb. &nbsp;He there who treads<br>
+So leisurely before me, far and wide<br>
+Through Tuscany resounded once; and now<br>
+Is in Sienna scarce with whispers nam'd:<br>
+There was he sov'reign, when destruction caught<br>
+The madd'ning rage of Florence, in that day<br>
+Proud as she now is loathsome. &nbsp;Your renown<br>
+Is as the herb, whose hue doth come and go,<br>
+And his might withers it, by whom it sprang<br>
+Crude from the lap of earth." &nbsp;I thus to him:<br>
+"True are thy sayings: to my heart they breathe<br>
+The kindly spirit of meekness, and allay<br>
+What tumours rankle there. &nbsp;But who is he<br>
+Of whom thou spak'st but now?"--"This," he replied,<br>
+"Is Provenzano. &nbsp;He is here, because<br>
+He reach'd, with grasp presumptuous, at the sway<br>
+Of all Sienna. &nbsp;Thus he still hath gone,<br>
+Thus goeth never-resting, since he died.<br>
+Such is th' acquittance render'd back of him,<br>
+Who, beyond measure, dar'd on earth." &nbsp;I then:<br>
+"If soul that to the verge of life delays<br>
+Repentance, linger in that lower space,<br>
+Nor hither mount, unless good prayers befriend,<br>
+How chanc'd admittance was vouchsaf'd to him?"<br>
+<br>"When at his glory's topmost height," said he,<br>
+"Respect of dignity all cast aside,<br>
+Freely He fix'd him on Sienna's plain,<br>
+A suitor to &nbsp;redeem his suff'ring friend,<br>
+Who languish'd in the prison-house of Charles,<br>
+Nor for his sake refus'd through every vein<br>
+To tremble. &nbsp;More I will not say; and dark,<br>
+I know, my words are, but thy neighbours soon<br>
+Shall help thee to a comment on the text.<br>
+This is the work, that from these limits freed him."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="12"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XII</h2>
+
+<br><br>
+<a href="images/12-1.jpg"><img alt="12-1th.jpg (60K)" src="images/12-1th.jpg" height="544" width="435"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<p>With equal pace as oxen in the yoke,<br>
+I with that laden spirit journey'd on<br>
+Long as the mild instructor suffer'd me;<br>
+But when he bade me quit him, and proceed<br>
+(For "here," said he, "behooves with sail and oars<br>
+Each man, as best he may, push on his bark"),<br>
+Upright, as one dispos'd for speed, I rais'd<br>
+My body, still in thought submissive bow'd.<br>
+<br>I now my leader's track not loth pursued;<br>
+And each had shown how light we far'd along<br>
+When thus he warn'd me: "Bend thine eyesight down:<br>
+For thou to ease the way shall find it good<br>
+To ruminate the bed beneath thy feet."<br>
+<br>As in memorial of the buried, drawn<br>
+Upon earth-level tombs, the sculptur'd form<br>
+Of what was once, appears (at sight whereof<br>
+Tears often stream forth by remembrance wak'd,<br>
+Whose sacred stings the piteous only feel),<br>
+So saw I there, but with more curious skill<br>
+Of portraiture o'erwrought, whate'er of space<br>
+From forth the mountain stretches. &nbsp;On one part<br>
+Him I beheld, above all creatures erst<br>
+Created noblest, light'ning fall from heaven:<br>
+On th' other side with bolt celestial pierc'd<br>
+Briareus: cumb'ring earth he lay through dint<br>
+Of mortal ice-stroke. &nbsp;The Thymbraean god<br>
+With Mars, I saw, and Pallas, round their sire,<br>
+Arm'd still, and gazing on the giant's limbs<br>
+Strewn o'er th' ethereal field. &nbsp;Nimrod I saw:<br>
+At foot of the stupendous work he stood,<br>
+As if bewilder'd, looking on the crowd<br>
+Leagued in his proud attempt on Sennaar's plain.<br>
+<br>O Niobe! &nbsp;in what a trance of woe<br>
+Thee I beheld, upon that highway drawn,<br>
+Sev'n sons on either side thee slain! &nbsp;O Saul!<br>
+How ghastly didst thou look! &nbsp;on thine own sword<br>
+Expiring in Gilboa, from that hour<br>
+Ne'er visited with rain from heav'n or dew!<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/12-39.jpg"><img alt="12-39th.jpg (40K)" src="images/12-39th.jpg" height="465" width="434"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>O fond Arachne! &nbsp;thee I also saw<br>
+Half spider now in anguish crawling up<br>
+Th' unfinish'd web thou weaved'st to thy bane!<br>
+<br>O Rehoboam! &nbsp;here thy shape doth seem<br>
+Louring no more defiance! but fear-smote<br>
+With none to chase him in his chariot whirl'd.<br>
+<br>Was shown beside upon the solid floor<br>
+How dear Alcmaeon forc'd his mother rate<br>
+That ornament in evil hour receiv'd:<br>
+How in the temple on Sennacherib fell<br>
+His sons, and how a corpse they left him there.<br>
+Was shown the scath and cruel mangling made<br>
+By Tomyris on Cyrus, when she cried:<br>
+"Blood thou didst thirst for, take thy fill of blood!"<br>
+Was shown how routed in the battle fled<br>
+Th' Assyrians, Holofernes slain, and e'en<br>
+The relics of the carnage. &nbsp;Troy I mark'd<br>
+In ashes and in caverns. &nbsp;Oh! &nbsp;how fall'n,<br>
+How abject, Ilion, was thy semblance there!<br>
+<br>What master of the pencil or the style<br>
+Had trac'd the shades and lines, that might have made<br>
+The subtlest workman wonder? &nbsp;Dead the dead,<br>
+The living seem'd alive; with clearer view<br>
+His eye beheld not who beheld the truth,<br>
+Than mine what I did tread on, while I went<br>
+Low bending. &nbsp;Now swell out; and with stiff necks<br>
+Pass on, ye sons of Eve! &nbsp;veil not your looks,<br>
+Lest they descry the evil of your path!<br>
+<br>I noted not (so busied was my thought)<br>
+How much we now had circled of the mount,<br>
+And of his course yet more the sun had spent,<br>
+When he, who with still wakeful caution went,<br>
+Admonish'd: "Raise thou up thy head: for know<br>
+Time is not now for slow suspense. &nbsp;Behold<br>
+That way an angel hasting towards us! &nbsp;Lo<br>
+Where duly the sixth handmaid doth return<br>
+From service on the day. &nbsp;Wear thou in look<br>
+And gesture seemly grace of reverent awe,<br>
+That gladly he may forward us aloft.<br>
+Consider that this day ne'er dawns again."<br>
+<br>Time's loss he had so often warn'd me 'gainst,<br>
+I could not miss the scope at which he aim'd.<br>
+<br>The goodly shape approach'd us, snowy white<br>
+In vesture, and with visage casting streams<br>
+Of tremulous lustre like the matin star.<br>
+His arms he open'd, then his wings; and spake:<br>
+"Onward: the steps, behold! &nbsp;are near; and now<br>
+Th' ascent is without difficulty gain'd."<br>
+<br>A scanty few are they, who when they hear<br>
+Such tidings, hasten. &nbsp;O ye race of men<br>
+Though born to soar, why suffer ye a wind<br>
+So slight to baffle ye? &nbsp;He led us on<br>
+Where the rock parted; here against my front<br>
+Did beat his wings, then promis'd I should fare<br>
+In safety on my way. &nbsp;As to ascend<br>
+That steep, upon whose brow the chapel stands<br>
+(O'er Rubaconte, looking lordly down<br>
+On the well-guided city,) up the right<br>
+Th' impetuous rise is broken by the steps<br>
+Carv'd in that old and simple age, when still<br>
+The registry and label rested safe;<br>
+Thus is th' acclivity reliev'd, which here<br>
+Precipitous from the other circuit falls:<br>
+But on each hand the tall cliff presses close.<br>
+<br>As ent'ring there we turn'd, voices, in strain<br>
+Ineffable, sang: "Blessed are the poor<br>
+In spirit." &nbsp;Ah how far unlike to these<br>
+The straits of hell; here songs to usher us,<br>
+There shrieks of woe! &nbsp;We climb the holy stairs:<br>
+And lighter to myself by far I seem'd<br>
+Than on the plain before, whence thus I spake:<br>
+"Say, master, of what heavy thing have I<br>
+Been lighten'd, that scarce aught the sense of toil<br>
+Affects me journeying?" &nbsp;He in few replied:<br>
+"When sin's broad characters, that yet remain<br>
+Upon thy temples, though well nigh effac'd,<br>
+Shall be, as one is, all clean razed out,<br>
+Then shall thy feet by heartiness of will<br>
+Be so o'ercome, they not alone shall feel<br>
+No sense of labour, but delight much more<br>
+Shall wait them urg'd along their upward way."<br>
+<br>Then like to one, upon whose head is plac'd<br>
+Somewhat he deems not of but from the becks<br>
+Of others as they pass him by; his hand<br>
+Lends therefore help to' assure him, searches, finds,<br>
+And well performs such office as the eye<br>
+Wants power to execute: so stretching forth<br>
+The fingers of my right hand, did I find<br>
+Six only of the letters, which his sword<br>
+Who bare the keys had trac'd upon my brow.<br>
+The leader, as he mark'd mine action, smil'd.</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="13"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XIII</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>We reach'd the summit of the scale, and stood<br>
+Upon the second buttress of that mount<br>
+Which healeth him who climbs. &nbsp;A cornice there,<br>
+Like to the former, girdles round the hill;<br>
+Save that its arch with sweep less ample bends.<br>
+<br>Shadow nor image there is seen; all smooth<br>
+The rampart and the path, reflecting nought<br>
+But the rock's sullen hue. &nbsp;"If here we wait<br>
+For some to question," said the bard, "I fear<br>
+Our choice may haply meet too long delay."<br>
+<br>Then fixedly upon the sun his eyes<br>
+He fastn'd, made his right the central point<br>
+From whence to move, and turn'd the left aside.<br>
+"O pleasant light, my confidence and hope,<br>
+Conduct us thou," he cried, "on this new way,<br>
+Where now I venture, leading to the bourn<br>
+We seek. &nbsp;The universal world to thee<br>
+Owes warmth and lustre. &nbsp;If no other cause<br>
+Forbid, thy beams should ever be our guide."<br>
+<br>Far, as is measur'd for a mile on earth,<br>
+In brief space had we journey'd; such prompt will<br>
+Impell'd; and towards us flying, now were heard<br>
+Spirits invisible, who courteously<br>
+Unto love's table bade the welcome guest.<br>
+The voice, that first? &nbsp;flew by, call'd forth aloud,<br>
+"They have no wine;" so on behind us past,<br>
+Those sounds reiterating, nor yet lost<br>
+In the faint distance, when another came<br>
+Crying, "I am Orestes," and alike<br>
+Wing'd its fleet way. &nbsp;"Oh father!" &nbsp;I exclaim'd,<br>
+"What tongues are these?" &nbsp;and as I question'd, lo!<br>
+A third exclaiming, "Love ye those have wrong'd you."<br>
+<br>"This circuit," said my teacher, "knots the scourge<br>
+For envy, and the cords are therefore drawn<br>
+By charity's correcting hand. &nbsp;The curb<br>
+Is of a harsher sound, as thou shalt hear<br>
+(If I deem rightly), ere thou reach the pass,<br>
+Where pardon sets them free. &nbsp;But fix thine eyes<br>
+Intently through the air, and thou shalt see<br>
+A multitude before thee seated, each<br>
+Along the shelving grot." &nbsp;Then more than erst<br>
+I op'd my eyes, before me view'd, and saw<br>
+Shadows with garments dark as was the rock;<br>
+And when we pass'd a little forth, I heard<br>
+A crying, "Blessed Mary! pray for us,<br>
+Michael and Peter! &nbsp;all ye saintly host!"<br>
+<br>I do not think there walks on earth this day<br>
+Man so remorseless, that he hath not yearn'd<br>
+With pity at the sight that next I saw.<br>
+Mine eyes a load of sorrow teemed, when now<br>
+I stood so near them, that their semblances<br>
+Came clearly to my view. &nbsp;Of sackcloth vile<br>
+Their cov'ring seem'd; and on his shoulder one<br>
+Did stay another, leaning, and all lean'd<br>
+Against the cliff. &nbsp;E'en thus the blind and poor,<br>
+Near the confessionals, to crave an alms,<br>
+Stand, each his head upon his fellow's sunk,<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/13-55.jpg"><img alt="13-55th.jpg (47K)" src="images/13-55th.jpg" height="553" width="439"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+So most to stir compassion, not by sound<br>
+Of words alone, but that, which moves not less,<br>
+The sight of mis'ry. &nbsp;And as never beam<br>
+Of noonday visiteth the eyeless man,<br>
+E'en so was heav'n a niggard unto these<br>
+Of his fair light; for, through the orbs of all,<br>
+A thread of wire, impiercing, knits them up,<br>
+As for the taming of a haggard hawk.<br>
+<br>It were a wrong, methought, to pass and look<br>
+On others, yet myself the while unseen.<br>
+To my sage counsel therefore did I turn.<br>
+He knew the meaning of the mute appeal,<br>
+Nor waited for my questioning, but said:<br>
+"Speak; and be brief, be subtle in thy words."<br>
+<br>On that part of the cornice, whence no rim<br>
+Engarlands its steep fall, did Virgil come;<br>
+On the' other side me were the spirits, their cheeks<br>
+Bathing devout with penitential tears,<br>
+That through the dread impalement forc'd a way.<br>
+<br>I turn'd me to them, and "O shades!" said I,<br>
+<br>"Assur'd that to your eyes unveil'd shall shine<br>
+The lofty light, sole object of your wish,<br>
+So may heaven's grace clear whatsoe'er of foam<br>
+Floats turbid on the conscience, that thenceforth<br>
+The stream of mind roll limpid from its source,<br>
+As ye declare (for so shall ye impart<br>
+A boon I dearly prize) if any soul<br>
+Of Latium dwell among ye; and perchance<br>
+That soul may profit, if I learn so much."<br>
+<br>"My brother, we are each one citizens<br>
+Of one true city. &nbsp;Any thou wouldst say,<br>
+Who lived a stranger in Italia's land."<br>
+<br>So heard I answering, as appeal'd, a voice<br>
+That onward came some space from whence I stood.<br>
+<br>A spirit I noted, in whose look was mark'd<br>
+Expectance. &nbsp;Ask ye how? &nbsp;The chin was rais'd<br>
+As in one reft of sight. &nbsp;"Spirit," said I,<br>
+"Who for thy rise are tutoring (if thou be<br>
+That which didst answer to me,) or by place<br>
+Or name, disclose thyself, that I may know thee."<br>
+<br>"I was," it answer'd, "of Sienna: here<br>
+I cleanse away with these the evil life,<br>
+Soliciting with tears that He, who is,<br>
+Vouchsafe him to us. &nbsp;Though Sapia nam'd<br>
+In sapience I excell'd not, gladder far<br>
+Of others' hurt, than of the good befell me.<br>
+That thou mayst own I now deceive thee not,<br>
+Hear, if my folly were not as I speak it.<br>
+When now my years slop'd waning down the arch,<br>
+It so bechanc'd, my fellow citizens<br>
+Near Colle met their enemies in the field,<br>
+And I pray'd God to grant what He had will'd.<br>
+There were they vanquish'd, and betook themselves<br>
+Unto the bitter passages of flight.<br>
+I mark'd the hunt, and waxing out of bounds<br>
+In gladness, lifted up my shameless brow,<br>
+And like the merlin cheated by a gleam,<br>
+Cried, "It is over. &nbsp;Heav'n! I fear thee not."<br>
+Upon my verge of life I wish'd for peace<br>
+With God; nor repentance had supplied<br>
+What I did lack of duty, were it not<br>
+The hermit Piero, touch'd with charity,<br>
+In his devout orisons thought on me.<br>
+"But who art thou that question'st of our state,<br>
+Who go'st to my belief, with lids unclos'd,<br>
+And breathest in thy talk?"--"Mine eyes," said I,<br>
+"May yet be here ta'en from me; but not long;<br>
+For they have not offended grievously<br>
+With envious glances. &nbsp;But the woe beneath<br>
+Urges my soul with more exceeding dread.<br>
+That nether load already weighs me down."<br>
+<br>She thus: "Who then amongst us here aloft<br>
+Hath brought thee, if thou weenest to return?"<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/13-129.jpg"><img alt="13-129th.jpg (49K)" src="images/13-129th.jpg" height="545" width="433"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>"He," answer'd I, "who standeth mute beside me.<br>
+I live: of me ask therefore, chosen spirit,<br>
+If thou desire I yonder yet should move<br>
+For thee my mortal feet."--"Oh!" she replied,<br>
+"This is so strange a thing, it is great sign<br>
+That God doth love thee. &nbsp;Therefore with thy prayer<br>
+Sometime assist me: and by that I crave,<br>
+Which most thou covetest, that if thy feet<br>
+E'er tread on Tuscan soil, thou save my fame<br>
+Amongst my kindred. &nbsp;Them shalt thou behold<br>
+With that vain multitude, who set their hope<br>
+On Telamone's haven, there to fail<br>
+Confounded, more shall when the fancied stream<br>
+They sought of Dian call'd: but they who lead<br>
+Their navies, more than ruin'd hopes shall mourn."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="14"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XIV</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>"Say who is he around our mountain winds,<br>
+Or ever death has prun'd his wing for flight,<br>
+That opes his eyes and covers them at will?"<br>
+<br>"I know not who he is, but know thus much<br>
+He comes not singly. &nbsp;Do thou ask of him,<br>
+For thou art nearer to him, and take heed<br>
+Accost him gently, so that he may speak."<br>
+<br>Thus on the right two Spirits bending each<br>
+Toward the other, talk'd of me, then both<br>
+Addressing me, their faces backward lean'd,<br>
+And thus the one began: "O soul, who yet<br>
+Pent in the body, tendest towards the sky!<br>
+For charity, we pray thee' comfort us,<br>
+Recounting whence thou com'st, and who thou art:<br>
+For thou dost make us at the favour shown thee<br>
+Marvel, as at a thing that ne'er hath been."<br>
+<br>"There stretches through the midst of Tuscany,"<br>
+I straight began: "a brooklet, whose well-head<br>
+Springs up in Falterona, with his race<br>
+Not satisfied, when he some hundred miles<br>
+Hath measur'd. &nbsp;From his banks bring, I this frame.<br>
+To tell you who I am were words misspent:<br>
+For yet my name scarce sounds on rumour's lip."<br>
+<br>"If well I do incorp'rate with my thought<br>
+The meaning of thy speech," said he, who first<br>
+Addrest me, "thou dost speak of Arno's wave."<br>
+<br>To whom the other: "Why hath he conceal'd<br>
+The title of that river, as a man<br>
+Doth of some horrible thing?" &nbsp;The spirit, who<br>
+Thereof was question'd, did acquit him thus:<br>
+"I know not: but 'tis fitting well the name<br>
+Should perish of that vale; for from the source<br>
+Where teems so plenteously the Alpine steep<br>
+Maim'd of Pelorus, (that doth scarcely pass<br>
+Beyond that limit,) even to the point<br>
+Whereunto ocean is restor'd, what heaven<br>
+Drains from th' exhaustless store for all earth's streams,<br>
+Throughout the space is virtue worried down,<br>
+As 'twere a snake, by all, for mortal foe,<br>
+Or through disastrous influence on the place,<br>
+Or else distortion of misguided wills,<br>
+That custom goads to evil: whence in those,<br>
+The dwellers in that miserable vale,<br>
+Nature is so transform'd, it seems as they<br>
+Had shar'd of Circe's feeding. &nbsp;'Midst brute swine,<br>
+Worthier of acorns than of other food<br>
+Created for man's use, he shapeth first<br>
+His obscure way; then, sloping onward, finds<br>
+Curs, snarlers more in spite than power, from whom<br>
+He turns with scorn aside: still journeying down,<br>
+By how much more the curst and luckless foss<br>
+Swells out to largeness, e'en so much it finds<br>
+Dogs turning into wolves. &nbsp;Descending still<br>
+Through yet more hollow eddies, next he meets<br>
+A race of foxes, so replete with craft,<br>
+They do not fear that skill can master it.<br>
+Nor will I cease because my words are heard<br>
+By other ears than thine. &nbsp;It shall be well<br>
+For this man, if he keep in memory<br>
+What from no erring Spirit I reveal.<br>
+Lo! &nbsp;I behold thy grandson, that becomes<br>
+A hunter of those wolves, upon the shore<br>
+Of the fierce stream, and cows them all with dread:<br>
+Their flesh yet living sets he up to sale,<br>
+Then like an aged beast to slaughter dooms.<br>
+Many of life he reaves, himself of worth<br>
+And goodly estimation. &nbsp;Smear'd with gore<br>
+Mark how he issues from the rueful wood,<br>
+Leaving such havoc, that in thousand years<br>
+It spreads not to prime lustihood again."<br>
+<br>As one, who tidings hears of woe to come,<br>
+Changes his looks perturb'd, from whate'er part<br>
+The peril grasp him, so beheld I change<br>
+That spirit, who had turn'd to listen, struck<br>
+With sadness, soon as he had caught the word.<br>
+<br>His visage and the other's speech did raise<br>
+Desire in me to know the names of both,<br>
+whereof with meek entreaty I inquir'd.<br>
+<br>The shade, who late addrest me, thus resum'd:<br>
+"Thy wish imports that I vouchsafe to do<br>
+For thy sake what thou wilt not do for mine.<br>
+But since God's will is that so largely shine<br>
+His grace in thee, I will be liberal too.<br>
+Guido of Duca know then that I am.<br>
+Envy so parch'd my blood, that had I seen<br>
+A fellow man made joyous, thou hadst mark'd<br>
+A livid paleness overspread my cheek.<br>
+Such harvest reap I of the seed I sow'd.<br>
+O man, why place thy heart where there doth need<br>
+Exclusion of participants in good?<br>
+This is Rinieri's spirit, this the boast<br>
+And honour of the house of Calboli,<br>
+Where of his worth no heritage remains.<br>
+Nor his the only blood, that hath been stript<br>
+('twixt Po, the mount, the Reno, and the shore,)<br>
+Of all that truth or fancy asks for bliss;<br>
+But in those limits such a growth has sprung<br>
+Of rank and venom'd roots, as long would mock<br>
+Slow culture's toil. &nbsp;Where is good Lizio? &nbsp;where<br>
+Manardi, Traversalo, and Carpigna?<br>
+O bastard slips of old Romagna's line!<br>
+When in Bologna the low artisan,<br>
+And in Faenza yon Bernardin sprouts,<br>
+A gentle cyon from ignoble stem.<br>
+Wonder not, Tuscan, if thou see me weep,<br>
+When I recall to mind those once lov'd names,<br>
+Guido of Prata, and of Azzo him<br>
+That dwelt with you; Tignoso and his troop,<br>
+With Traversaro's house and Anastagio's,<br>
+(Each race disherited) and beside these,<br>
+The ladies and the knights, the toils and ease,<br>
+That witch'd us into love and courtesy;<br>
+Where now such malice reigns in recreant hearts.<br>
+O Brettinoro! &nbsp;wherefore tarriest still,<br>
+Since forth of thee thy family hath gone,<br>
+And many, hating evil, join'd their steps?<br>
+Well doeth he, that bids his lineage cease,<br>
+Bagnacavallo; Castracaro ill,<br>
+And Conio worse, who care to propagate<br>
+A race of Counties from such blood as theirs.<br>
+Well shall ye also do, Pagani, then<br>
+When from amongst you tries your demon child.<br>
+Not so, howe'er, that henceforth there remain<br>
+True proof of what ye were. &nbsp;O Hugolin!<br>
+Thou sprung of Fantolini's line! &nbsp;thy name<br>
+Is safe, since none is look'd for after thee<br>
+To cloud its lustre, warping from thy stock.<br>
+But, Tuscan, go thy ways; for now I take<br>
+Far more delight in weeping than in words.<br>
+Such pity for your sakes hath wrung my heart."<br>
+<br>We knew those gentle spirits at parting heard<br>
+Our steps. &nbsp;Their silence therefore of our way<br>
+Assur'd us. &nbsp;Soon as we had quitted them,<br>
+Advancing onward, lo! &nbsp;a voice that seem'd<br>
+Like vollied light'ning, when it rives the air,<br>
+Met us, and shouted, "Whosoever finds<br>
+Will slay me," then fled from us, as the bolt<br>
+Lanc'd sudden from a downward-rushing cloud.<br>
+When it had giv'n short truce unto our hearing,<br>
+Behold the other with a crash as loud<br>
+As the quick-following thunder: "Mark in me<br>
+Aglauros turn'd to rock." &nbsp;I at the sound<br>
+Retreating drew more closely to my guide.<br>
+<br>Now in mute stillness rested all the air:<br>
+And thus he spake: "There was the galling bit.<br>
+But your old enemy so baits his hook,<br>
+He drags you eager to him. &nbsp;Hence nor curb<br>
+Avails you, nor reclaiming call. &nbsp;Heav'n calls<br>
+And round about you wheeling courts your gaze<br>
+With everlasting beauties. &nbsp;Yet your eye<br>
+Turns with fond doting still upon the earth.<br>
+Therefore He smites you who discerneth all."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="15"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XV</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>As much as 'twixt the third hour's close and dawn,<br>
+Appeareth of heav'n's sphere, that ever whirls<br>
+As restless as an infant in his play,<br>
+So much appear'd remaining to the sun<br>
+Of his slope journey towards the western goal.<br>
+<br>Evening was there, and here the noon of night;<br>
+and full upon our forehead smote the beams.<br>
+For &nbsp;round the mountain, circling, so our path<br>
+Had led us, that toward the sun-set now<br>
+Direct we journey'd: when I felt a weight<br>
+Of more exceeding splendour, than before,<br>
+Press on my front. &nbsp;The cause unknown, amaze<br>
+Possess'd me, and both hands against my brow<br>
+Lifting, I interpos'd them, as a screen,<br>
+That of its gorgeous superflux of light<br>
+Clipp'd the diminish'd orb. As when the ray,<br>
+Striking On water or the surface clear<br>
+Of mirror, leaps unto the opposite part,<br>
+Ascending at a glance, e'en as it fell,<br>
+(And so much differs from the stone, that falls)<br>
+Through equal space, as practice skill hath shown;<br>
+Thus with refracted light before me seemed<br>
+The ground there smitten; whence in sudden haste<br>
+My sight recoil'd. &nbsp;"What is this, sire belov'd!<br>
+'Gainst which I strive to shield the sight in vain?"<br>
+Cried I, "and which towards us moving seems?"<br>
+<br>"Marvel not, if the family of heav'n,"<br>
+He answer'd, "yet with dazzling radiance dim<br>
+Thy sense it is a messenger who comes,<br>
+Inviting man's ascent. &nbsp;Such sights ere long,<br>
+Not grievous, shall impart to thee delight,<br>
+As thy perception is by nature wrought<br>
+Up to their pitch." &nbsp;The blessed angel, soon<br>
+As we had reach'd him, hail'd us with glad voice:<br>
+"Here enter on a ladder far less steep<br>
+Than ye have yet encounter'd." &nbsp;We forthwith<br>
+Ascending, heard behind us chanted sweet,<br>
+"Blessed the merciful," and "happy thou!<br>
+That conquer'st." &nbsp;Lonely each, my guide and I<br>
+Pursued our upward way; and as we went,<br>
+Some profit from his words I hop'd to win,<br>
+And thus of him inquiring, fram'd my speech:<br>
+<br>"What meant Romagna's spirit, when he spake<br>
+Of bliss exclusive with no partner shar'd?"<br>
+<br>He straight replied: "No wonder, since he knows,<br>
+What sorrow waits on his own worst defect,<br>
+If he chide others, that they less may mourn.<br>
+Because ye point your wishes at a mark,<br>
+Where, by communion of possessors, part<br>
+Is lessen'd, envy bloweth up the sighs of men.<br>
+No fear of that might touch ye, if the love<br>
+Of higher sphere exalted your desire.<br>
+For there, by how much more they call it ours,<br>
+So much propriety of each in good<br>
+Increases more, and heighten'd charity<br>
+Wraps that fair cloister in a brighter flame."<br>
+<br>"Now lack I satisfaction more," said I,<br>
+"Than if thou hadst been silent at the first,<br>
+And doubt more gathers on my lab'ring thought.<br>
+How can it chance, that good distributed,<br>
+The many, that possess it, makes more rich,<br>
+Than if 't were shar'd by few?" &nbsp;He answering thus:<br>
+"Thy mind, reverting still to things of earth,<br>
+Strikes darkness from true light. &nbsp;The highest good<br>
+Unlimited, ineffable, doth so speed<br>
+To love, as beam to lucid body darts,<br>
+Giving as much of ardour as it finds.<br>
+The sempiternal effluence streams abroad<br>
+Spreading, wherever charity extends.<br>
+So that the more aspirants to that bliss<br>
+Are multiplied, more good is there to love,<br>
+And more is lov'd; as mirrors, that reflect,<br>
+Each unto other, propagated light.<br>
+If these my words avail not to allay<br>
+Thy thirsting, Beatrice thou shalt see,<br>
+Who of this want, and of all else thou hast,<br>
+Shall rid thee to the full. &nbsp;Provide but thou<br>
+That from thy temples may be soon eras'd,<br>
+E'en as the two already, those five scars,<br>
+That when they pain thee worst, then kindliest heal,"<br>
+<br>"Thou," I had said, "content'st me," when I saw<br>
+The other round was gain'd, and wond'ring eyes<br>
+Did keep me mute. &nbsp;There suddenly I seem'd<br>
+By an ecstatic vision wrapt away;<br>
+And in a temple saw, methought, a crowd<br>
+Of many persons; and at th' entrance stood<br>
+A dame, whose sweet demeanour did express<br>
+A mother's love, who said, "Child! &nbsp;why hast thou<br>
+Dealt with us thus? &nbsp;Behold thy sire and I<br>
+Sorrowing have sought thee;" and so held her peace,<br>
+And straight the vision fled. &nbsp;A female next<br>
+Appear'd before me, down whose visage cours'd<br>
+Those waters, that grief forces out from one<br>
+By deep resentment stung, who seem'd to say:<br>
+"If thou, Pisistratus, be lord indeed<br>
+Over this city, nam'd with such debate<br>
+Of adverse gods, and whence each science sparkles,<br>
+Avenge thee of those arms, whose bold embrace<br>
+Hath clasp'd our daughter; "and to fuel, meseem'd,<br>
+Benign and meek, with visage undisturb'd,<br>
+Her sovran spake: "How shall we those requite,<br>
+Who wish us evil, if we thus condemn<br>
+The man that loves us?" &nbsp;After that I saw<br>
+A multitude, in fury burning, slay<br>
+With stones a stripling youth, and shout amain<br>
+"Destroy, destroy!" and him I saw, who bow'd<br>
+Heavy with death unto the ground, yet made<br>
+His eyes, unfolded upward, gates to heav'n,<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/15-103.jpg"><img alt="15-103th.jpg (38K)" src="images/15-103th.jpg" height="445" width="432"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+Praying forgiveness of th' Almighty Sire,<br>
+Amidst that cruel conflict, on his foes,<br>
+With looks, that With compassion to their aim.<br>
+<br>Soon as my spirit, from her airy flight<br>
+Returning, sought again the things, whose truth<br>
+Depends not on her shaping, I observ'd<br>
+How she had rov'd to no unreal scenes<br>
+<br>Meanwhile the leader, who might see I mov'd,<br>
+As one, who struggles to shake off his sleep,<br>
+Exclaim'd: "What ails thee, that thou canst not hold<br>
+Thy footing firm, but more than half a league<br>
+Hast travel'd with clos'd eyes and tott'ring gait,<br>
+Like to a man by wine or sleep o'ercharg'd?"<br>
+<br>"Beloved father! &nbsp;so thou deign," said I,<br>
+"To listen, I will tell thee what appear'd<br>
+Before me, when so fail'd my sinking steps."<br>
+<br>He thus: "Not if thy Countenance were mask'd<br>
+With hundred vizards, could a thought of thine<br>
+How small soe'er, elude me. &nbsp;What thou saw'st<br>
+Was shown, that freely thou mightst ope thy heart<br>
+To the waters of peace, that flow diffus'd<br>
+From their eternal fountain. &nbsp;I not ask'd,<br>
+What ails thee? &nbsp;for such cause as he doth, who<br>
+Looks only with that eye which sees no more,<br>
+When spiritless the body lies; but ask'd,<br>
+To give fresh vigour to thy foot. &nbsp;Such goads<br>
+The slow and loit'ring need; that they be found<br>
+Not wanting, when their hour of watch returns."<br>
+<br>So on we journey'd through the evening sky<br>
+Gazing intent, far onward, as our eyes<br>
+With level view could stretch against the bright<br>
+Vespertine ray: and lo! &nbsp;by slow degrees<br>
+Gath'ring, a fog made tow'rds us, dark as night.<br>
+There was no room for 'scaping; and that mist<br>
+Bereft us, both of sight and the pure air.</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="16"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XVI</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Hell's dunnest gloom, or night unlustrous, dark,<br>
+Of every planes 'reft, and pall'd in clouds,<br>
+Did never spread before the sight a veil<br>
+In thickness like that fog, nor to the sense<br>
+So palpable and gross. &nbsp;Ent'ring its shade,<br>
+Mine eye endured not with unclosed lids;<br>
+Which marking, near me drew the faithful guide,<br>
+Offering me his shoulder for a stay.<br>
+<br>As the blind man behind his leader walks,<br>
+Lest he should err, or stumble unawares<br>
+On what might harm him, or perhaps destroy,<br>
+I journey'd through that bitter air and foul,<br>
+Still list'ning to my escort's warning voice,<br>
+"Look that from me thou part not." &nbsp;Straight I heard<br>
+Voices, and each one seem'd to pray for peace,<br>
+And for compassion, to the Lamb of God<br>
+That taketh sins away. &nbsp;Their prelude still<br>
+Was "Agnus Dei," and through all the choir,<br>
+One voice, one measure ran, that perfect seem'd<br>
+The concord of their song. &nbsp;"Are these I hear<br>
+Spirits, O master?" &nbsp;I exclaim'd; and he:<br>
+"Thou aim'st aright: these loose the bonds of wrath."<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/16-23.jpg"><img alt="16-23th.jpg (42K)" src="images/16-23th.jpg" height="477" width="435"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>"Now who art thou, that through our smoke dost cleave?<br>
+And speak'st of us, as thou thyself e'en yet<br>
+Dividest time by calends?" &nbsp;So one voice<br>
+Bespake me; whence my master said: "Reply;<br>
+And ask, if upward hence the passage lead."<br>
+<br>"O being! &nbsp;who dost make thee pure, to stand<br>
+Beautiful once more in thy Maker's sight!<br>
+Along with me: and thou shalt hear and wonder."<br>
+Thus I, whereto the spirit answering spake:<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/16-32.jpg"><img alt="16-32th.jpg (37K)" src="images/16-32th.jpg" height="455" width="434"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+"Long as 't is lawful for me, shall my steps<br>
+Follow on thine; and since the cloudy smoke<br>
+Forbids the seeing, hearing in its stead<br>
+Shall keep us join'd." &nbsp;I then forthwith began<br>
+"Yet in my mortal swathing, I ascend<br>
+To higher regions, and am hither come<br>
+Through the fearful agony of hell.<br>
+And, if so largely God hath doled his grace,<br>
+That, clean beside all modern precedent,<br>
+He wills me to behold his kingly state,<br>
+From me conceal not who thou wast, ere death<br>
+Had loos'd thee; but instruct me: and instruct<br>
+If rightly to the pass I tend; thy words<br>
+The way directing as a safe escort."<br>
+<br>"I was of Lombardy, and Marco call'd:<br>
+Not inexperienc'd of the world, that worth<br>
+I still affected, from which all have turn'd<br>
+The nerveless bow aside. &nbsp;Thy course tends right<br>
+Unto the summit:" and, replying thus,<br>
+He added, "I beseech thee pray for me,<br>
+When thou shalt come aloft." &nbsp;And I to him:<br>
+"Accept my faith for pledge I will perform<br>
+What thou requirest. &nbsp;Yet one doubt remains,<br>
+That wrings me sorely, if I solve it not,<br>
+Singly before it urg'd me, doubled now<br>
+By thine opinion, when I couple that<br>
+With one elsewhere declar'd, each strength'ning other.<br>
+The world indeed is even so forlorn<br>
+Of all good as thou speak'st it and so swarms<br>
+With every evil. &nbsp;Yet, beseech thee, point<br>
+The cause out to me, that myself may see,<br>
+And unto others show it: for in heaven<br>
+One places it, and one on earth below."<br>
+<br>Then heaving forth a deep and audible sigh,<br>
+"Brother!" he thus began, "the world is blind;<br>
+And thou in truth com'st from it. &nbsp;Ye, who live,<br>
+Do so each cause refer to heav'n above,<br>
+E'en as its motion of necessity<br>
+Drew with it all that moves. &nbsp;If this were so,<br>
+Free choice in you were none; nor justice would<br>
+There should be joy for virtue, woe for ill.<br>
+Your movements have their primal bent from heaven;<br>
+Not all; yet said I all; what then ensues?<br>
+Light have ye still to follow evil or good,<br>
+And of the will free power, which, if it stand<br>
+Firm and unwearied in Heav'n's first assay,<br>
+Conquers at last, so it be cherish'd well,<br>
+Triumphant over all. &nbsp;To mightier force,<br>
+To better nature subject, ye abide<br>
+Free, not constrain'd by that, which forms in you<br>
+The reasoning mind uninfluenc'd of the stars.<br>
+If then the present race of mankind err,<br>
+Seek in yourselves the cause, and find it there.<br>
+Herein thou shalt confess me no false spy.<br>
+<br>"Forth from his plastic hand, who charm'd beholds<br>
+Her image ere she yet exist, the soul<br>
+Comes like a babe, that wantons sportively<br>
+Weeping and laughing in its wayward moods,<br>
+As artless and as ignorant of aught,<br>
+Save that her Maker being one who dwells<br>
+With gladness ever, willingly she turns<br>
+To whate'er yields her joy. &nbsp;Of some slight good<br>
+The flavour soon she tastes; and, snar'd by that,<br>
+With fondness she pursues it, if no guide<br>
+Recall, no rein direct her wand'ring course.<br>
+Hence it behov'd, the law should be a curb;<br>
+A sovereign hence behov'd, whose piercing view<br>
+Might mark at least the fortress and main tower<br>
+Of the true city. &nbsp;Laws indeed there are:<br>
+But who is he observes them? &nbsp;None; not he,<br>
+Who goes before, the shepherd of the flock,<br>
+Who chews the cud but doth not cleave the hoof.<br>
+Therefore the multitude, who see their guide<br>
+Strike at the very good they covet most,<br>
+Feed there and look no further. &nbsp;Thus the cause<br>
+Is not corrupted nature in yourselves,<br>
+But ill-conducting, that hath turn'd the world<br>
+To evil. &nbsp;Rome, that turn'd it unto good,<br>
+Was wont to boast two suns, whose several beams<br>
+Cast light on either way, the world's and God's.<br>
+One since hath quench'd the other; and the sword<br>
+Is grafted on the crook; and so conjoin'd<br>
+Each must perforce decline to worse, unaw'd<br>
+By fear of other. &nbsp;If thou doubt me, mark<br>
+The blade: each herb is judg'd of by its seed.<br>
+That land, through which Adice and the Po<br>
+Their waters roll, was once the residence<br>
+Of courtesy and velour, ere the day,<br>
+That frown'd on Frederick; now secure may pass<br>
+Those limits, whosoe'er hath left, for shame,<br>
+To talk with good men, or come near their haunts.<br>
+Three aged ones are still found there, in whom<br>
+The old time chides the new: these deem it long<br>
+Ere God restore them to a better world:<br>
+The good Gherardo, of Palazzo he<br>
+Conrad, and Guido of Castello, nam'd<br>
+In Gallic phrase more fitly the plain Lombard.<br>
+On this at last conclude. &nbsp;The church of Rome,<br>
+Mixing two governments that ill assort,<br>
+Hath miss'd her footing, fall'n into the mire,<br>
+And there herself and burden much defil'd."<br>
+<br>"O Marco!" I replied, shine arguments<br>
+Convince me: and the cause I now discern<br>
+Why of the heritage no portion came<br>
+To Levi's offspring. &nbsp;But resolve me this<br>
+Who that Gherardo is, that as thou sayst<br>
+Is left a sample of the perish'd race,<br>
+And for rebuke to this untoward age?"<br>
+<br>"Either thy words," said he, "deceive; or else<br>
+Are meant to try me; that thou, speaking Tuscan,<br>
+Appear'st not to have heard of good Gherado;<br>
+The sole addition that, by which I know him;<br>
+Unless I borrow'd from his daughter Gaia<br>
+Another name to grace him. &nbsp;God be with you.<br>
+I bear you company no more. &nbsp;Behold<br>
+The dawn with white ray glimm'ring through the mist.<br>
+I must away--the angel comes--ere he<br>
+Appear." &nbsp;He said, and would not hear me more.</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="17"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XVII</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Call to remembrance, reader, if thou e'er<br>
+Hast, on a mountain top, been ta'en by cloud,<br>
+Through which thou saw'st no better, than the mole<br>
+Doth through opacous membrane; then, whene'er<br>
+The wat'ry vapours dense began to melt<br>
+Into thin air, how faintly the sun's sphere<br>
+Seem'd wading through them; so thy nimble thought<br>
+May image, how at first I re-beheld<br>
+The sun, that bedward now his couch o'erhung.<br>
+<br>Thus with my leader's feet still equaling pace<br>
+From forth that cloud I came, when now expir'd<br>
+The parting beams from off the nether shores.<br>
+<br>O quick and forgetive power! &nbsp;that sometimes dost<br>
+So rob us of ourselves, we take no mark<br>
+Though round about us thousand trumpets clang!<br>
+What moves thee, if the senses stir not? &nbsp;Light<br>
+Kindled in heav'n, spontaneous, self-inform'd,<br>
+Or likelier gliding down with swift illapse<br>
+By will divine. &nbsp;Portray'd before me came<br>
+The traces of her dire impiety,<br>
+Whose form was chang'd into the bird, that most<br>
+Delights itself in song: and here my mind<br>
+Was inwardly so wrapt, it gave no place<br>
+To aught that ask'd admittance from without.<br>
+<br>Next shower'd into my fantasy a shape<br>
+As of one crucified, whose visage spake<br>
+Fell rancour, malice deep, wherein he died;<br>
+And round him Ahasuerus the great king,<br>
+Esther his bride, and Mordecai the just,<br>
+Blameless in word and deed. &nbsp;As of itself<br>
+That unsubstantial coinage of the brain<br>
+Burst, like a bubble, Which the water fails<br>
+That fed it; in my vision straight uprose<br>
+A damsel weeping loud, and cried, "O queen!<br>
+O mother! &nbsp;wherefore has intemperate ire<br>
+Driv'n thee to loath thy being? &nbsp;Not to lose<br>
+Lavinia, desp'rate thou hast slain thyself.<br>
+Now hast thou lost me. &nbsp;I am she, whose tears<br>
+Mourn, ere I fall, a mother's timeless end."<br>
+<br>E'en as a sleep breaks off, if suddenly<br>
+New radiance strike upon the closed lids,<br>
+The broken slumber quivering ere it dies;<br>
+Thus from before me sunk that imagery<br>
+Vanishing, soon as on my face there struck<br>
+The light, outshining far our earthly beam.<br>
+As round I turn'd me to survey what place<br>
+I had arriv'd at, "Here ye mount," exclaim'd<br>
+A voice, that other purpose left me none,<br>
+Save will so eager to behold who spake,<br>
+I could not choose but gaze. &nbsp;As 'fore the sun,<br>
+That weighs our vision down, and veils his form<br>
+In light transcendent, thus my virtue fail'd<br>
+Unequal. &nbsp;"This is Spirit from above,<br>
+Who marshals us our upward way, unsought;<br>
+And in his own light shrouds him. As a man<br>
+Doth for himself, so now is done for us.<br>
+For whoso waits imploring, yet sees need<br>
+Of his prompt aidance, sets himself prepar'd<br>
+For blunt denial, ere the suit be made.<br>
+Refuse we not to lend a ready foot<br>
+At such inviting: haste we to ascend,<br>
+Before it darken: for we may not then,<br>
+Till morn again return." &nbsp;So spake my guide;<br>
+And to one ladder both address'd our steps;<br>
+And the first stair approaching, I perceiv'd<br>
+Near me as 'twere the waving of a wing,<br>
+That fann'd my face and whisper'd: "Blessed they<br>
+The peacemakers: they know not evil wrath."<br>
+<br>Now to such height above our heads were rais'd<br>
+The last beams, follow'd close by hooded night,<br>
+That many a star on all sides through the gloom<br>
+Shone out. &nbsp;"Why partest from me, O my strength?"<br>
+So with myself I commun'd; for I felt<br>
+My o'ertoil'd sinews slacken. &nbsp;We had reach'd<br>
+The summit, and were fix'd like to a bark<br>
+Arriv'd at land. &nbsp;And waiting a short space,<br>
+If aught should meet mine ear in that new round,<br>
+Then to my guide I turn'd, and said: "Lov'd sire!<br>
+Declare what guilt is on this circle purg'd.<br>
+If our feet rest, no need thy speech should pause."<br>
+<br>He thus to me: "The love of good, whate'er<br>
+Wanted of just proportion, here fulfils.<br>
+Here plies afresh the oar, that loiter'd ill.<br>
+But that thou mayst yet clearlier understand,<br>
+Give ear unto my words, and thou shalt cull<br>
+Some fruit may please thee well, from this delay.<br>
+<br>"Creator, nor created being, ne'er,<br>
+My son," he thus began, "was without love,<br>
+Or natural, or the free spirit's growth.<br>
+Thou hast not that to learn. &nbsp;The natural still<br>
+Is without error; but the other swerves,<br>
+If on ill object bent, or through excess<br>
+Of vigour, or defect. &nbsp;While e'er it seeks<br>
+The primal blessings, or with measure due<br>
+Th' inferior, no delight, that flows from it,<br>
+Partakes of ill. &nbsp;But let it warp to evil,<br>
+Or with more ardour than behooves, or less.<br>
+Pursue the good, the thing created then<br>
+Works 'gainst its Maker. &nbsp;Hence thou must infer<br>
+That love is germin of each virtue in ye,<br>
+And of each act no less, that merits pain.<br>
+Now since it may not be, but love intend<br>
+The welfare mainly of the thing it loves,<br>
+All from self-hatred are secure; and since<br>
+No being can be thought t' exist apart<br>
+And independent of the first, a bar<br>
+Of equal force restrains from hating that.<br>
+<br>"Grant the distinction just; and it remains<br>
+The' evil must be another's, which is lov'd.<br>
+Three ways such love is gender'd in your clay.<br>
+There is who hopes (his neighbour's worth deprest,)<br>
+Preeminence himself, and coverts hence<br>
+For his own greatness that another fall.<br>
+There is who so much fears the loss of power,<br>
+Fame, favour, glory (should his fellow mount<br>
+Above him), and so sickens at the thought,<br>
+He loves their opposite: and there is he,<br>
+Whom wrong or insult seems to gall and shame<br>
+That he doth thirst for vengeance, and such needs<br>
+Must doat on other's evil. &nbsp;Here beneath<br>
+This threefold love is mourn'd. &nbsp;Of th' other sort<br>
+Be now instructed, that which follows good<br>
+But with disorder'd and irregular course.<br>
+<br>"All indistinctly apprehend a bliss<br>
+On which the soul may rest, the hearts of all<br>
+Yearn after it, and to that wished bourn<br>
+All therefore strive to tend. &nbsp;If ye behold<br>
+Or seek it with a love remiss and lax,<br>
+This cornice after just repenting lays<br>
+Its penal torment on ye. &nbsp;Other good<br>
+There is, where man finds not his happiness:<br>
+It is not true fruition, not that blest<br>
+Essence, of every good the branch and root.<br>
+The love too lavishly bestow'd on this,<br>
+Along three circles over us, is mourn'd.<br>
+Account of that division tripartite<br>
+Expect not, fitter for thine own research."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="18"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XVIII</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>The teacher ended, and his high discourse<br>
+Concluding, earnest in my looks inquir'd<br>
+If I appear'd content; and I, whom still<br>
+Unsated thirst to hear him urg'd, was mute,<br>
+Mute outwardly, yet inwardly I said:<br>
+"Perchance my too much questioning offends."<br>
+But he, true father, mark'd the secret wish<br>
+By diffidence restrain'd, and speaking, gave<br>
+Me boldness thus to speak: "Master, my Sight<br>
+Gathers so lively virtue from thy beams,<br>
+That all, thy words convey, distinct is seen.<br>
+Wherefore I pray thee, father, whom this heart<br>
+Holds dearest! &nbsp;thou wouldst deign by proof t' unfold<br>
+That love, from which as from their source thou bring'st<br>
+All good deeds and their opposite." &nbsp;He then:<br>
+"To what I now disclose be thy clear ken<br>
+Directed, and thou plainly shalt behold<br>
+How much those blind have err'd, who make themselves<br>
+The guides of men. &nbsp;The soul, created apt<br>
+To love, moves versatile which way soe'er<br>
+Aught pleasing prompts her, soon as she is wak'd<br>
+By pleasure into act. &nbsp;Of substance true<br>
+Your apprehension forms its counterfeit,<br>
+And in you the ideal shape presenting<br>
+Attracts the soul's regard. &nbsp;If she, thus drawn,<br>
+incline toward it, love is that inclining,<br>
+And a new nature knit by pleasure in ye.<br>
+Then as the fire points up, and mounting seeks<br>
+His birth-place and his lasting seat, e'en thus<br>
+Enters the captive soul into desire,<br>
+Which is a spiritual motion, that ne'er rests<br>
+Before enjoyment of the thing it loves.<br>
+Enough to show thee, how the truth from those<br>
+Is hidden, who aver all love a thing<br>
+Praise-worthy in itself: although perhaps<br>
+Its substance seem still good. &nbsp;Yet if the wax<br>
+Be good, it follows not th' impression must."<br>
+"What love is," I return'd, "thy words, O guide!<br>
+And my own docile mind, reveal. &nbsp;Yet thence<br>
+New doubts have sprung. &nbsp;For from without if love<br>
+Be offer'd to us, and the spirit knows<br>
+No other footing, tend she right or wrong,<br>
+Is no desert of hers." &nbsp;He answering thus:<br>
+"What reason here discovers I have power<br>
+To show thee: that which lies beyond, expect<br>
+From Beatrice, faith not reason's task.<br>
+Spirit, substantial form, with matter join'd<br>
+Not in confusion mix'd, hath in itself<br>
+Specific virtue of that union born,<br>
+Which is not felt except it work, nor prov'd<br>
+But through effect, as vegetable life<br>
+By the green leaf. &nbsp;From whence his intellect<br>
+Deduced its primal notices of things,<br>
+Man therefore knows not, or his appetites<br>
+Their first affections; such in you, as zeal<br>
+In bees to gather honey; at the first,<br>
+Volition, meriting nor blame nor praise.<br>
+But o'er each lower faculty supreme,<br>
+That as she list are summon'd to her bar,<br>
+Ye have that virtue in you, whose just voice<br>
+Uttereth counsel, and whose word should keep<br>
+The threshold of assent. &nbsp;Here is the source,<br>
+Whence cause of merit in you is deriv'd,<br>
+E'en as the affections good or ill she takes,<br>
+Or severs, winnow'd as the chaff. &nbsp;Those men<br>
+Who reas'ning went to depth profoundest, mark'd<br>
+That innate freedom, and were thence induc'd<br>
+To leave their moral teaching to the world.<br>
+Grant then, that from necessity arise<br>
+All love that glows within you; to dismiss<br>
+Or harbour it, the pow'r is in yourselves.<br>
+Remember, Beatrice, in her style,<br>
+Denominates free choice by eminence<br>
+The noble virtue, if in talk with thee<br>
+She touch upon that theme." &nbsp;The moon, well nigh<br>
+To midnight hour belated, made the stars<br>
+Appear to wink and fade; and her broad disk<br>
+Seem'd like a crag on fire, as up the vault<br>
+That course she journey'd, which the sun then warms,<br>
+When they of Rome behold him at his set.<br>
+Betwixt Sardinia and the Corsic isle.<br>
+And now the weight, that hung upon my thought,<br>
+Was lighten'd by the aid of that clear spirit,<br>
+Who raiseth Andes above Mantua's name.<br>
+I therefore, when my questions had obtain'd<br>
+Solution plain and ample, stood as one<br>
+Musing in dreary slumber; but not long<br>
+Slumber'd; for suddenly a multitude,<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/18-87.jpg"><img alt="18-87th.jpg (39K)" src="images/18-87th.jpg" height="472" width="435"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+The steep already turning, from behind,<br>
+Rush'd on. &nbsp;With fury and like random rout,<br>
+As echoing on their shores at midnight heard<br>
+Ismenus and Asopus, for his Thebes<br>
+If Bacchus' help were needed; so came these<br>
+Tumultuous, curving each his rapid step,<br>
+By eagerness impell'd of holy love.<br>
+<br>Soon they o'ertook us; with such swiftness mov'd<br>
+The mighty crowd. &nbsp;Two spirits at their head<br>
+Cried weeping; "Blessed Mary sought with haste<br>
+The hilly region. &nbsp;Caesar to subdue<br>
+Ilerda, darted in Marseilles his sting,<br>
+And flew to Spain."--"Oh tarry not: away;"<br>
+The others shouted; "let not time be lost<br>
+Through slackness of affection. &nbsp;Hearty zeal<br>
+To serve reanimates celestial grace."<br>
+<br>"O ye, in whom intenser fervency<br>
+Haply supplies, where lukewarm erst ye fail'd,<br>
+Slow or neglectful, to absolve your part<br>
+Of good and virtuous, this man, who yet lives,<br>
+(Credit my tale, though strange) desires t' ascend,<br>
+So morning rise to light us. &nbsp;Therefore say<br>
+Which hand leads nearest to the rifted rock?"<br>
+<br>So spake my guide, to whom a shade return'd:<br>
+"Come after us, and thou shalt find the cleft.<br>
+We may not linger: such resistless will<br>
+Speeds our unwearied course. &nbsp;Vouchsafe us then<br>
+Thy pardon, if our duty seem to thee<br>
+Discourteous rudeness. &nbsp;In Verona I<br>
+Was abbot of San Zeno, when the hand<br>
+Of Barbarossa grasp'd Imperial sway,<br>
+That name, ne'er utter'd without tears in Milan.<br>
+And there is he, hath one foot in his grave,<br>
+Who for that monastery ere long shall weep,<br>
+Ruing his power misus'd: for that his son,<br>
+Of body ill compact, and worse in mind,<br>
+And born in evil, he hath set in place<br>
+Of its true pastor." &nbsp;Whether more he spake,<br>
+Or here was mute, I know not: he had sped<br>
+E'en now so far beyond us. &nbsp;Yet thus much<br>
+I heard, and in rememb'rance treasur'd it.<br>
+<br>He then, who never fail'd me at my need,<br>
+Cried, "Hither turn. &nbsp;Lo! &nbsp;two with sharp remorse<br>
+Chiding their sin!" &nbsp;In rear of all the troop<br>
+These shouted: "First they died, to whom the sea<br>
+Open'd, or ever Jordan saw his heirs:<br>
+And they, who with Aeneas to the end<br>
+Endur'd not suffering, for their portion chose<br>
+Life without glory." &nbsp;Soon as they had fled<br>
+Past reach of sight, new thought within me rose<br>
+By others follow'd fast, and each unlike<br>
+Its fellow: till led on from thought to thought,<br>
+And pleasur'd with the fleeting train, mine eye<br>
+Was clos'd, and meditation chang'd to dream.</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+
+
+<br>
+<br>
+
+
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=4 border=3>
+<tr><td>
+ &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p2.htm">Previous Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="8795-h.htm">Main Index</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p4.htm">Next Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
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+
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+<title>Dante's Purgatory, Part 4.</title>
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+<body>
+<h2>THE VISION OF PURGATORY, Part 4.</h2>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=4 border=3>
+<tr><td>
+ &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p3.htm">Previous Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="8795-h.htm">Main Index</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p5.htm">Next Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+ </td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<center>
+<h1>THE VISION</h1><br>
+<h2>OF</h2><br>
+<h1>HELL, PURGATORY, AND PARADISE</h1><br>
+<h2>BY</h2><br>
+<h1>DANTE ALIGHIERI</h1>
+
+
+
+<br><br><br>
+<br><br><br>
+<h2>PURGATORY</h2>
+<h3>Part 4</h3>
+<br><br><br>
+<h3>TRANSLATED BY</h3><br>
+<h2>THE REV. H. F. CARY, M.A.</h2>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/cover.jpg"><img alt="coverth.jpg (42K)" src="images/coverth.jpg" height="478" width="553"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/frontispiece.jpg"><img alt="front2.jpg (41K)" src="images/front2.jpg" height="477" width="431"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/titlepage.jpg"><img alt="title2.jpg (21K)" src="images/title2.jpg" height="535" width="416"></a>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<h1>PURGATORY</h1>
+</center>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<center>
+<h2>LIST OF CANTOS</h2>
+</center>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="Contents">
+<tr><td>
+
+
+<a href="#19">Canto 19</a><br>
+<a href="#20">Canto 20</a><br>
+<a href="#21">Canto 21</a><br>
+<a href="#22">Canto 22</a><br>
+<a href="#23">Canto 23</a><br>
+<a href="#24">Canto 24</a><br>
+<a href="#25">Canto 25</a><br>
+
+
+
+
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<center>
+<table summary="Purgatory">
+<tr><td>
+<br><br>
+
+
+
+
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="19"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XIX</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>It was the hour, when of diurnal heat<br>
+No reliques chafe the cold beams of the moon,<br>
+O'erpower'd by earth, or planetary sway<br>
+Of Saturn; and the geomancer sees<br>
+His Greater Fortune up the east ascend,<br>
+Where gray dawn checkers first the shadowy cone;<br>
+When 'fore me in my dream a woman's shape<br>
+There came, with lips that stammer'd, eyes aslant,<br>
+Distorted feet, hands maim'd, and colour pale.<br>
+<br>I look'd upon her; and as sunshine cheers<br>
+Limbs numb'd by nightly cold, e'en thus my look<br>
+Unloos'd her tongue, next in brief space her form<br>
+Decrepit rais'd erect, and faded face<br>
+With love's own hue illum'd. Recov'ring speech<br>
+She forthwith warbling such a strain began,<br>
+That I, how loth soe'er, could scarce have held<br>
+Attention from the song. &nbsp;"I," thus she sang,<br>
+"I am the Siren, she, whom mariners<br>
+On the wide sea are wilder'd when they hear:<br>
+Such fulness of delight the list'ner feels.<br>
+I from his course Ulysses by my lay<br>
+Enchanted drew. &nbsp;Whoe'er frequents me once<br>
+Parts seldom; so I charm him, and his heart<br>
+Contented knows no void." &nbsp;Or ere her mouth<br>
+Was clos'd, to shame her at her side appear'd<br>
+A dame of semblance holy. &nbsp;With stern voice<br>
+She utter'd; "Say, O Virgil, who is this?"<br>
+Which hearing, he approach'd, with eyes still bent<br>
+Toward that goodly presence: th' other seiz'd her,<br>
+And, her robes tearing, open'd her before,<br>
+And show'd the belly to me, whence a smell,<br>
+Exhaling loathsome, wak'd me. &nbsp;Round I turn'd<br>
+Mine eyes, and thus the teacher: "At the least<br>
+Three times my voice hath call'd thee. &nbsp;Rise, begone.<br>
+Let us the opening find where thou mayst pass."<br>
+<br>I straightway rose. &nbsp;Now day, pour'd down from high,<br>
+Fill'd all the circuits of the sacred mount;<br>
+And, as we journey'd, on our shoulder smote<br>
+The early ray. &nbsp;I follow'd, stooping low<br>
+My forehead, as a man, o'ercharg'd with thought,<br>
+Who bends him to the likeness of an arch,<br>
+That midway spans the flood; when thus I heard,<br>
+"Come, enter here," in tone so soft and mild,<br>
+As never met the ear on mortal strand.<br>
+<br>With swan-like wings dispread and pointing up,<br>
+Who thus had spoken marshal'd us along,<br>
+Where each side of the solid masonry<br>
+The sloping, walls retir'd; then mov'd his plumes,<br>
+And fanning us, affirm'd that those, who mourn,<br>
+Are blessed, for that comfort shall be theirs.<br>
+<br>"What aileth thee, that still thou look'st to earth?"<br>
+Began my leader; while th' angelic shape<br>
+A little over us his station took.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/19-51.jpg"><img alt="19-51th.jpg (38K)" src="images/19-51th.jpg" height="476" width="436"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>"New vision," I replied, "hath rais'd in me<br>
+Surmizings strange and anxious doubts, whereon<br>
+My soul intent allows no other thought<br>
+Or room or entrance."&mdash;"Hast thou seen," said he,<br>
+"That old enchantress, her, whose wiles alone<br>
+The spirits o'er us weep for? &nbsp;Hast thou seen<br>
+How man may free him of her bonds? &nbsp;Enough.<br>
+Let thy heels spurn the earth, and thy rais'd ken<br>
+Fix on the lure, which heav'n's eternal King<br>
+Whirls in the rolling spheres." &nbsp;As on his feet<br>
+The falcon first looks down, then to the sky<br>
+Turns, and forth stretches eager for the food,<br>
+That woos him thither; so the call I heard,<br>
+So onward, far as the dividing rock<br>
+Gave way, I journey'd, till the plain was reach'd.<br>
+<br>On the fifth circle when I stood at large,<br>
+A race appear'd before me, on the ground<br>
+All downward lying prone and weeping sore.<br>
+"My soul hath cleaved to the dust," I heard<br>
+With sighs so deep, they well nigh choak'd the words.<br>
+"O ye elect of God, whose penal woes<br>
+Both hope and justice mitigate, direct<br>
+Tow'rds the steep rising our uncertain way."<br>
+<br>"If ye approach secure from this our doom,<br>
+Prostration&mdash;and would urge your course with speed,<br>
+See that ye still to rightward keep the brink."<br>
+<br>So them the bard besought; and such the words,<br>
+Beyond us some short space, in answer came.<br>
+<br>I noted what remain'd yet hidden from them:<br>
+Thence to my liege's eyes mine eyes I bent,<br>
+And he, forthwith interpreting their suit,<br>
+Beckon'd his glad assent. Free then to act,<br>
+As pleas'd me, I drew near, and took my stand<br>
+O`er that shade, whose words I late had mark'd.<br>
+And, "Spirit!" &nbsp;I said, "in whom repentant tears<br>
+Mature that blessed hour, when thou with God<br>
+Shalt find acceptance, for a while suspend<br>
+For me that mightier care. &nbsp;Say who thou wast,<br>
+Why thus ye grovel on your bellies prone,<br>
+And if in aught ye wish my service there,<br>
+Whence living I am come." &nbsp;He answering spake<br>
+"The cause why Heav'n our back toward his cope<br>
+Reverses, shalt thou know: but me know first<br>
+The successor of Peter, and the name<br>
+And title of my lineage from that stream,<br>
+That' twixt Chiaveri and Siestri draws<br>
+His limpid waters through the lowly glen.<br>
+A month and little more by proof I learnt,<br>
+With what a weight that robe of sov'reignty<br>
+Upon his shoulder rests, who from the mire<br>
+Would guard it: that each other fardel seems<br>
+But feathers in the balance. &nbsp;Late, alas!<br>
+Was my conversion: but when I became<br>
+Rome's pastor, I discern'd at once the dream<br>
+And cozenage of life, saw that the heart<br>
+Rested not there, and yet no prouder height<br>
+Lur'd on the climber: wherefore, of that life<br>
+No more enamour'd, in my bosom love<br>
+Of purer being kindled. &nbsp;For till then<br>
+I was a soul in misery, alienate<br>
+From God, and covetous of all earthly things;<br>
+Now, as thou seest, here punish'd for my doting.<br>
+Such cleansing from the taint of avarice<br>
+Do spirits converted need. &nbsp;This mount inflicts<br>
+No direr penalty. &nbsp;E'en as our eyes<br>
+Fasten'd below, nor e'er to loftier clime<br>
+Were lifted, thus hath justice level'd us<br>
+Here on the earth. &nbsp;As avarice quench'd our love<br>
+Of good, without which is no working, thus<br>
+Here justice holds us prison'd, hand and foot<br>
+Chain'd down and bound, while heaven's just Lord shall please.<br>
+So long to tarry motionless outstretch'd."<br>
+<br>My knees I stoop'd, and would have spoke; but he,<br>
+Ere my beginning, by his ear perceiv'd<br>
+I did him reverence; and "What cause," said he,<br>
+"Hath bow'd thee thus!"&mdash;"Compunction," I rejoin'd.<br>
+"And inward awe of your high dignity."<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/19-131.jpg"><img alt="19-131th.jpg (44K)" src="images/19-131th.jpg" height="465" width="425"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>"Up," he exclaim'd, "brother! upon thy feet<br>
+Arise: err not: thy fellow servant I,<br>
+(Thine and all others') of one Sovran Power.<br>
+If thou hast ever mark'd those holy sounds<br>
+Of gospel truth, 'nor shall be given ill marriage,'<br>
+Thou mayst discern the reasons of my speech.<br>
+Go thy ways now; and linger here no more.<br>
+Thy tarrying is a let unto the tears,<br>
+With which I hasten that whereof thou spak'st.<br>
+I have on earth a kinswoman; her name<br>
+Alagia, worthy in herself, so ill<br>
+Example of our house corrupt her not:<br>
+And she is all remaineth of me there."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="20"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XX</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Ill strives the will, 'gainst will more wise that strives<br>
+His pleasure therefore to mine own preferr'd,<br>
+I drew the sponge yet thirsty from the wave.<br>
+<br>Onward I mov'd: he also onward mov'd,<br>
+Who led me, coasting still, wherever place<br>
+Along the rock was vacant, as a man<br>
+Walks near the battlements on narrow wall.<br>
+For those on th' other part, who drop by drop<br>
+Wring out their all-infecting malady,<br>
+Too closely press the verge. &nbsp;Accurst be thou!<br>
+Inveterate wolf! whose gorge ingluts more prey,<br>
+Than every beast beside, yet is not fill'd!<br>
+So bottomless thy maw!&mdash;Ye spheres of heaven!<br>
+To whom there are, as seems, who attribute<br>
+All change in mortal state, when is the day<br>
+Of his appearing, for whom fate reserves<br>
+To chase her hence? &nbsp;&mdash;With wary steps and slow<br>
+We pass'd; and I attentive to the shades,<br>
+Whom piteously I heard lament and wail;<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/20-17.jpg"><img alt="20-17th.jpg (38K)" src="images/20-17th.jpg" height="477" width="440"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+And, 'midst the wailing, one before us heard<br>
+Cry out "O blessed Virgin!" &nbsp;as a dame<br>
+In the sharp pangs of childbed; and "How poor<br>
+Thou wast," it added, "witness that low roof<br>
+Where thou didst lay thy sacred burden down.<br>
+O good Fabricius! thou didst virtue choose<br>
+With poverty, before great wealth with vice."<br>
+<br>The words so pleas'd me, that desire to know<br>
+The spirit, from whose lip they seem'd to come,<br>
+Did draw me onward. &nbsp;Yet it spake the gift<br>
+Of Nicholas, which on the maidens he<br>
+Bounteous bestow'd, to save their youthful prime<br>
+Unblemish'd. &nbsp;"Spirit! who dost speak of deeds<br>
+So worthy, tell me who thou was," I said,<br>
+"And why thou dost with single voice renew<br>
+Memorial of such praise. That boon vouchsaf'd<br>
+Haply shall meet reward; if I return<br>
+To finish the Short pilgrimage of life,<br>
+Still speeding to its close on restless wing."<br>
+<br>"I," answer'd he, "will tell thee, not for hell,<br>
+Which thence I look for; but that in thyself<br>
+Grace so exceeding shines, before thy time<br>
+Of mortal dissolution. &nbsp;I was root<br>
+Of that ill plant, whose shade such poison sheds<br>
+O'er all the Christian land, that seldom thence<br>
+Good fruit is gather'd. &nbsp;Vengeance soon should come,<br>
+Had Ghent and Douay, Lille and Bruges power;<br>
+And vengeance I of heav'n's great Judge implore.<br>
+Hugh Capet was I high: from me descend<br>
+The Philips and the Louis, of whom France<br>
+Newly is govern'd; born of one, who ply'd<br>
+The slaughterer's trade at Paris. &nbsp;When the race<br>
+Of ancient kings had vanish'd (all save one<br>
+Wrapt up in sable weeds) within my gripe<br>
+I found the reins of empire, and such powers<br>
+Of new acquirement, with full store of friends,<br>
+That soon the widow'd circlet of the crown<br>
+Was girt upon the temples of my son,<br>
+He, from whose bones th' anointed race begins.<br>
+Till the great dower of Provence had remov'd<br>
+The stains, that yet obscur'd our lowly blood,<br>
+Its sway indeed was narrow, but howe'er<br>
+It wrought no evil: there, with force and lies,<br>
+Began its rapine; after, for amends,<br>
+Poitou it seiz'd, Navarre and Gascony.<br>
+To Italy came Charles, and for amends<br>
+Young Conradine an innocent victim slew,<br>
+And sent th' angelic teacher back to heav'n,<br>
+Still for amends. &nbsp;I see the time at hand,<br>
+That forth from France invites another Charles<br>
+To make himself and kindred better known.<br>
+Unarm'd he issues, saving with that lance,<br>
+Which the arch-traitor tilted with; and that<br>
+He carries with so home a thrust, as rives<br>
+The bowels of poor Florence. &nbsp;No increase<br>
+Of territory hence, but sin and shame<br>
+Shall be his guerdon, and so much the more<br>
+As he more lightly deems of such foul wrong.<br>
+I see the other, who a prisoner late<br>
+Had steps on shore, exposing to the mart<br>
+His daughter, whom he bargains for, as do<br>
+The Corsairs for their slaves. &nbsp;O avarice!<br>
+What canst thou more, who hast subdued our blood<br>
+So wholly to thyself, they feel no care<br>
+Of their own flesh? &nbsp;To hide with direr guilt<br>
+Past ill and future, &nbsp;lo!  the flower-de-luce<br>
+Enters Alagna! in his Vicar Christ<br>
+Himself a captive, and his mockery<br>
+Acted again! Lo! lo his holy lip<br>
+The vinegar and gall once more applied!<br>
+And he 'twixt living robbers doom'd to bleed!<br>
+Lo! the new Pilate, of whose cruelty<br>
+Such violence cannot fill the measure up,<br>
+With no degree to sanction, pushes on<br>
+Into the temple his yet eager sails!<br>
+<br>"O sovran Master! when shall I rejoice<br>
+To see the vengeance, which thy wrath well-pleas'd<br>
+In secret silence broods?&mdash;While daylight lasts,<br>
+So long what thou didst hear of her, sole spouse<br>
+Of the Great Spirit, and on which thou turn'dst<br>
+To me for comment, is the general theme<br>
+Of all our prayers: but when it darkens, then<br>
+A different strain we utter, then record<br>
+Pygmalion, whom his gluttonous thirst of gold<br>
+Made traitor, robber, parricide: the woes<br>
+Of Midas, which his greedy wish ensued,<br>
+Mark'd for derision to all future times:<br>
+And the fond Achan, how he stole the prey,<br>
+That yet he seems by Joshua's ire pursued.<br>
+Sapphira with her husband next, we blame;<br>
+And praise the forefeet, that with furious ramp<br>
+Spurn'd Heliodorus. &nbsp;All the mountain round<br>
+Rings with the infamy of Thracia's king,<br>
+Who slew his Phrygian charge: and last a shout<br>
+Ascends: "Declare, O Crassus! for thou know'st,<br>
+The flavour of thy gold." &nbsp;The voice of each<br>
+Now high now low, as each his impulse prompts,<br>
+Is led through many a pitch, acute or grave.<br>
+Therefore, not singly, I erewhile rehears'd<br>
+That blessedness we tell of in the day:<br>
+But near me none beside his accent rais'd."<br>
+<br>From him we now had parted, and essay'd<br>
+With utmost efforts to surmount the way,<br>
+When I did feel, as nodding to its fall,<br>
+The mountain tremble; whence an icy chill<br>
+Seiz'd on me, as on one to death convey'd.<br>
+So shook not Delos, when Latona there<br>
+Couch'd to bring forth the twin-born eyes of heaven.<br>
+<br>Forthwith from every side a shout arose<br>
+So vehement, that suddenly my guide<br>
+Drew near, and cried: "Doubt not, while I conduct thee."<br>
+"Glory!" all shouted (such the sounds mine ear<br>
+Gather'd from those, who near me swell'd the sounds)<br>
+"Glory in the highest be to God." &nbsp;We stood<br>
+Immovably suspended, like to those,<br>
+The shepherds, who first heard in Bethlehem's field<br>
+That song: till ceas'd the trembling, and the song<br>
+Was ended: then our hallow'd path resum'd,<br>
+Eying the prostrate shadows, who renew'd<br>
+Their custom'd mourning. &nbsp;Never in my breast<br>
+Did ignorance so struggle with desire<br>
+Of knowledge, if my memory do not err,<br>
+As in that moment; nor through haste dar'd I<br>
+To question, nor myself could aught discern,<br>
+So on I far'd in thoughtfulness and dread.</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="21"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXI</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>The natural thirst, ne'er quench'd but from the well,<br>
+Whereof the woman of Samaria crav'd,<br>
+Excited: haste along the cumber'd path,<br>
+After my guide, impell'd; and pity mov'd<br>
+My bosom for the 'vengeful deed, though just.<br>
+When lo! even as Luke relates, that Christ<br>
+Appear'd unto the two upon their way,<br>
+New-risen from his vaulted grave; to us<br>
+A shade appear'd, and after us approach'd,<br>
+Contemplating the crowd beneath its feet.<br>
+We were not ware of it; so first it spake,<br>
+Saying, "God give you peace, my brethren!" then<br>
+Sudden we turn'd: and Virgil such salute,<br>
+As fitted that kind greeting, gave, and cried:<br>
+"Peace in the blessed council be thy lot<br>
+Awarded by that righteous court, which me<br>
+To everlasting banishment exiles!"<br>
+<br>"How!" he exclaim'd, nor from his speed meanwhile<br>
+Desisting, "If that ye be spirits, whom God<br>
+Vouchsafes not room above, who up the height<br>
+Has been thus far your guide?" &nbsp;To whom the bard:<br>
+"If thou observe the tokens, which this man<br>
+Trac'd by the finger of the angel bears,<br>
+'Tis plain that in the kingdom of the just<br>
+He needs must share. &nbsp;But sithence she, whose wheel<br>
+Spins day and night, for him not yet had drawn<br>
+That yarn, which, on the fatal distaff pil'd,<br>
+Clotho apportions to each wight that breathes,<br>
+His soul, that sister is to mine and thine,<br>
+Not of herself could mount, for not like ours<br>
+Her ken: whence I, from forth the ample gulf<br>
+Of hell was ta'en, to lead him, and will lead<br>
+Far as my lore avails. &nbsp;But, if thou know,<br>
+Instruct us for what cause, the mount erewhile<br>
+Thus shook and trembled: wherefore all at once<br>
+Seem'd shouting, even from his wave-wash'd foot."<br>
+<br>That questioning so tallied with my wish,<br>
+The thirst did feel abatement of its edge<br>
+E'en from expectance. &nbsp;He forthwith replied,<br>
+"In its devotion nought irregular<br>
+This mount can witness, or by punctual rule<br>
+Unsanction'd; here from every change exempt.<br>
+Other than that, which heaven in itself<br>
+Doth of itself receive, no influence<br>
+Can reach us. &nbsp;Tempest none, shower, hail or snow,<br>
+Hoar frost or dewy moistness, higher falls<br>
+Than that brief scale of threefold steps: thick clouds<br>
+Nor scudding rack are ever seen: swift glance<br>
+Ne'er lightens, nor Thaumantian Iris gleams,<br>
+That yonder often shift on each side heav'n.<br>
+Vapour adust doth never mount above<br>
+The highest of the trinal stairs, whereon<br>
+Peter's vicegerent stands. &nbsp;Lower perchance,<br>
+With various motion rock'd, trembles the soil:<br>
+But here, through wind in earth's deep hollow pent,<br>
+I know not how, yet never trembled: then<br>
+Trembles, when any spirit feels itself<br>
+So purified, that it may rise, or move<br>
+For rising, and such loud acclaim ensues.<br>
+Purification by the will alone<br>
+Is prov'd, that free to change society<br>
+Seizes the soul rejoicing in her will.<br>
+Desire of bliss is present from the first;<br>
+But strong propension hinders, to that wish<br>
+By the just ordinance of heav'n oppos'd;<br>
+Propension now as eager to fulfil<br>
+Th' allotted torment, as erewhile to sin.<br>
+And I who in this punishment had lain<br>
+Five hundred years and more, but now have felt<br>
+Free wish for happier clime. &nbsp;Therefore thou felt'st<br>
+The mountain tremble, and the spirits devout<br>
+Heard'st, over all his limits, utter praise<br>
+To that liege Lord, whom I entreat their joy<br>
+To hasten." &nbsp;Thus he spake: and since the draught<br>
+Is grateful ever as the thirst is keen,<br>
+No words may speak my fullness of content.<br>
+<br>"Now," said the instructor sage, "I see the net<br>
+That takes ye here, and how the toils are loos'd,<br>
+Why rocks the mountain and why ye rejoice.<br>
+Vouchsafe, that from thy lips I next may learn,<br>
+Who on the earth thou wast, and wherefore here<br>
+So many an age wert prostrate."&mdash;"In that time,<br>
+When the good Titus, with Heav'n's King to help,<br>
+Aveng'd those piteous gashes, whence the blood<br>
+By Judas sold did issue, with the name<br>
+Most lasting and most honour'd there was I<br>
+Abundantly renown'd," the shade reply'd,<br>
+"Not yet with faith endued. &nbsp;So passing sweet<br>
+My vocal Spirit, from Tolosa, Rome<br>
+To herself drew me, where I merited<br>
+A myrtle garland to inwreathe my brow.<br>
+Statius they name me still. &nbsp;Of Thebes I sang,<br>
+And next of great Achilles: but i' th' way<br>
+Fell with the second burthen. &nbsp;Of my flame<br>
+Those sparkles were the seeds, which I deriv'd<br>
+From the bright fountain of celestial fire<br>
+That feeds unnumber'd lamps, the song I mean<br>
+Which sounds Aeneas' wand'rings: that the breast<br>
+I hung at, that the nurse, from whom my veins<br>
+Drank inspiration: whose authority<br>
+Was ever sacred with me. &nbsp;To have liv'd<br>
+Coeval with the Mantuan, I would bide<br>
+The revolution of another sun<br>
+Beyond my stated years in banishment."<br>
+<br>The Mantuan, when he heard him, turn'd to me,<br>
+And holding silence: by his countenance<br>
+Enjoin'd me silence but the power which wills,<br>
+Bears not supreme control: laughter and tears<br>
+Follow so closely on the passion prompts them,<br>
+They wait not for the motions of the will<br>
+In natures most sincere. &nbsp;I did but smile,<br>
+As one who winks; and thereupon the shade<br>
+Broke off, and peer'd into mine eyes, where best<br>
+Our looks interpret. "So to good event<br>
+Mayst thou conduct such great emprize," he cried,<br>
+"Say, why across thy visage beam'd, but now,<br>
+The lightning of a smile!" &nbsp;On either part<br>
+Now am I straiten'd; one conjures me speak,<br>
+Th' other to silence binds me: whence a sigh<br>
+I utter, and the sigh is heard. &nbsp;"Speak on;"<br>
+The teacher cried; "and do not fear to speak,<br>
+But tell him what so earnestly he asks."<br>
+Whereon I thus: "Perchance, O ancient spirit!<br>
+Thou marvel'st at my smiling. There is room<br>
+For yet more wonder. &nbsp;He who guides my ken<br>
+On high, he is that Mantuan, led by whom<br>
+Thou didst presume of men and gods to sing.<br>
+If other cause thou deem'dst for which I smil'd,<br>
+Leave it as not the true one; and believe<br>
+Those words, thou spak'st of him, indeed the cause."<br>
+<br>Now down he bent t' embrace my teacher's feet;<br>
+But he forbade him: "Brother! do it not:<br>
+Thou art a shadow, and behold'st a shade."<br>
+He rising answer'd thus: "Now hast thou prov'd<br>
+The force and ardour of the love I bear thee,<br>
+When I forget we are but things of air,<br>
+And as a substance treat an empty shade."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="22"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXII</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Now we had left the angel, who had turn'd<br>
+To the sixth circle our ascending step,<br>
+One gash from off my forehead raz'd: while they,<br>
+Whose wishes tend to justice, shouted forth:<br>
+"Blessed!" &nbsp;and ended with, "I thirst:" and I,<br>
+More nimble than along the other straits,<br>
+So journey'd, that, without the sense of toil,<br>
+I follow'd upward the swift-footed shades;<br>
+When Virgil thus began: "Let its pure flame<br>
+From virtue flow, and love can never fail<br>
+To warm another's bosom' so the light<br>
+Shine manifestly forth. &nbsp;Hence from that hour,<br>
+When 'mongst us in the purlieus of the deep,<br>
+Came down the spirit of Aquinum's hard,<br>
+Who told of thine affection, my good will<br>
+Hath been for thee of quality as strong<br>
+As ever link'd itself to one not seen.<br>
+Therefore these stairs will now seem short to me.<br>
+But tell me: and if too secure I loose<br>
+The rein with a friend's license, as a friend<br>
+Forgive me, and speak now as with a friend:<br>
+How chanc'd it covetous desire could find<br>
+Place in that bosom, 'midst such ample store<br>
+Of wisdom, as thy zeal had treasur'd there?"<br>
+<br>First somewhat mov'd to laughter by his words,<br>
+Statius replied: "Each syllable of thine<br>
+Is a dear pledge of love. &nbsp;Things oft appear<br>
+That minister false matters to our doubts,<br>
+When their true causes are remov'd from sight.<br>
+Thy question doth assure me, thou believ'st<br>
+I was on earth a covetous man, perhaps<br>
+Because thou found'st me in that circle plac'd.<br>
+Know then I was too wide of avarice:<br>
+And e'en for that excess, thousands of moons<br>
+Have wax'd and wan'd upon my sufferings.<br>
+And were it not that I with heedful care<br>
+Noted where thou exclaim'st as if in ire<br>
+With human nature, 'Why, thou cursed thirst<br>
+Of gold! dost not with juster measure guide<br>
+The appetite of mortals?' &nbsp;I had met<br>
+The fierce encounter of the voluble rock.<br>
+Then was I ware that with too ample wing<br>
+The hands may haste to lavishment, and turn'd,<br>
+As from my other evil, so from this<br>
+In penitence. &nbsp;How many from their grave<br>
+Shall with shorn locks arise, who living, aye<br>
+And at life's last extreme, of this offence,<br>
+Through ignorance, did not repent. &nbsp;And know,<br>
+The fault which lies direct from any sin<br>
+In level opposition, here With that<br>
+Wastes its green rankness on one common heap.<br>
+Therefore if I have been with those, who wail<br>
+Their avarice, to cleanse me, through reverse<br>
+Of their transgression, such hath been my lot."<br>
+<br>To whom the sovran of the pastoral song:<br>
+"While thou didst sing that cruel warfare wag'd<br>
+By the twin sorrow of Jocasta's womb,<br>
+From thy discourse with Clio there, it seems<br>
+As faith had not been shine: without the which<br>
+Good deeds suffice not. &nbsp;And if so, what sun<br>
+Rose on thee, or what candle pierc'd the dark<br>
+That thou didst after see to hoist the sail,<br>
+And follow, where the fisherman had led?"<br>
+<br>He answering thus: "By thee conducted first,<br>
+I enter'd the Parnassian grots, and quaff'd<br>
+Of the clear spring; illumin'd first by thee<br>
+Open'd mine eyes to God. &nbsp;Thou didst, as one,<br>
+Who, journeying through the darkness, hears a light<br>
+Behind, that profits not himself, but makes<br>
+His followers wise, when thou exclaimedst, 'Lo!<br>
+A renovated world! &nbsp;Justice return'd!<br>
+Times of primeval innocence restor'd!<br>
+And a new race descended from above!'<br>
+Poet and Christian both to thee I owed.<br>
+That thou mayst mark more clearly what I trace,<br>
+My hand shall stretch forth to inform the lines<br>
+With livelier colouring. &nbsp;Soon o'er all the world,<br>
+By messengers from heav'n, the true belief<br>
+Teem'd now prolific, and that word of thine<br>
+Accordant, to the new instructors chim'd.<br>
+Induc'd by which agreement, I was wont<br>
+Resort to them; and soon their sanctity<br>
+So won upon me, that, Domitian's rage<br>
+Pursuing them, I mix'd my tears with theirs,<br>
+And, while on earth I stay'd, still succour'd them;<br>
+And their most righteous customs made me scorn<br>
+All sects besides. &nbsp;Before I led the Greeks<br>
+In tuneful fiction, to the streams of Thebes,<br>
+I was baptiz'd; but secretly, through fear,<br>
+Remain'd a Christian, and conform'd long time<br>
+To Pagan rites. &nbsp;Five centuries and more,<br>
+T for that lukewarmness was fain to pace<br>
+Round the fourth circle. &nbsp;Thou then, who hast rais'd<br>
+The covering, which did hide such blessing from me,<br>
+Whilst much of this ascent is yet to climb,<br>
+Say, if thou know, where our old Terence bides,<br>
+Caecilius, Plautus, Varro: if condemn'd<br>
+They dwell, and in what province of the deep."<br>
+"These," said my guide, "with Persius and myself,<br>
+And others many more, are with that Greek,<br>
+Of mortals, the most cherish'd by the Nine,<br>
+In the first ward of darkness. &nbsp;There ofttimes<br>
+We of that mount hold converse, on whose top<br>
+For aye our nurses live. &nbsp;We have the bard<br>
+Of Pella, and the Teian, Agatho,<br>
+Simonides, and many a Grecian else<br>
+Ingarlanded with laurel. &nbsp;Of thy train<br>
+Antigone is there, Deiphile,<br>
+Argia, and as sorrowful as erst<br>
+Ismene, and who show'd Langia's wave:<br>
+Deidamia with her sisters there,<br>
+And blind Tiresias' daughter, and the bride<br>
+Sea-born of Peleus." &nbsp;Either poet now<br>
+Was silent, and no longer by th' ascent<br>
+Or the steep walls obstructed, round them cast<br>
+Inquiring eyes. &nbsp;Four handmaids of the day<br>
+Had finish'd now their office, and the fifth<br>
+Was at the chariot-beam, directing still<br>
+Its balmy point aloof, when thus my guide:<br>
+"Methinks, it well behooves us to the brink<br>
+Bend the right shoulder' circuiting the mount,<br>
+As we have ever us'd." &nbsp;So custom there<br>
+Was usher to the road, the which we chose<br>
+Less doubtful, as that worthy shade complied.<br>
+<br>They on before me went; I sole pursued,<br>
+List'ning their speech, that to my thoughts convey'd<br>
+Mysterious lessons of sweet poesy.<br>
+But soon they ceas'd; for midway of the road<br>
+A tree we found, with goodly fruitage hung,<br>
+And pleasant to the smell: and as a fir<br>
+Upward from bough to bough less ample spreads,<br>
+So downward this less ample spread, that none.<br>
+Methinks, aloft may climb. &nbsp;Upon the side,<br>
+That clos'd our path, a liquid crystal fell<br>
+From the steep rock, and through the sprays above<br>
+Stream'd showering. &nbsp;With associate step the bards<br>
+Drew near the plant; and from amidst the leaves<br>
+A voice was heard: "Ye shall be chary of me;"<br>
+And after added: "Mary took more thought<br>
+For joy and honour of the nuptial feast,<br>
+Than for herself who answers now for you.<br>
+The women of old Rome were satisfied<br>
+With water for their beverage. &nbsp;Daniel fed<br>
+On pulse, and wisdom gain'd. &nbsp;The primal age<br>
+Was beautiful as gold; and hunger then<br>
+Made acorns tasteful, thirst each rivulet<br>
+Run nectar. &nbsp;Honey and locusts were the food,<br>
+Whereon the Baptist in the wilderness<br>
+Fed, and that eminence of glory reach'd<br>
+And greatness, which the' Evangelist records."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="23"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXIII</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>On the green leaf mine eyes were fix'd, like his<br>
+Who throws away his days in idle chase<br>
+Of the diminutive, when thus I heard<br>
+The more than father warn me: "Son! our time<br>
+Asks thriftier using. &nbsp;Linger not: away."<br>
+<br>Thereat my face and steps at once I turn'd<br>
+Toward the sages, by whose converse cheer'd<br>
+I journey'd on, and felt no toil: and lo!<br>
+A sound of weeping and a song: "My lips,<br>
+O Lord!" and these so mingled, it gave birth<br>
+To pleasure and to pain. &nbsp;"O Sire, belov'd!<br>
+Say what is this I hear?" &nbsp;Thus I inquir'd.<br>
+<br>"Spirits," said he, "who as they go, perchance,<br>
+Their debt of duty pay." &nbsp;As on their road<br>
+The thoughtful pilgrims, overtaking some<br>
+Not known unto them, turn to them, and look,<br>
+But stay not; thus, approaching from behind<br>
+With speedier motion, eyed us, as they pass'd,<br>
+A crowd of spirits, silent and devout.<br>
+The eyes of each were dark and hollow: pale<br>
+Their visage, and so lean withal, the bones<br>
+Stood staring thro' the skin. &nbsp;I do not think<br>
+Thus dry and meagre Erisicthon show'd,<br>
+When pinc'ed by sharp-set famine to the quick.<br>
+<br>"Lo!" to myself I mus'd, "the race, who lost<br>
+Jerusalem, when Mary with dire beak<br>
+Prey'd on her child." &nbsp;The sockets seem'd as rings,<br>
+From which the gems were drops. &nbsp;Who reads the name<br>
+Of man upon his forehead, there the M<br>
+Had trac'd most plainly. &nbsp;Who would deem, that scent<br>
+Of water and an apple, could have prov'd<br>
+Powerful to generate such pining want,<br>
+Not knowing how it wrought? &nbsp;While now I stood<br>
+Wond'ring what thus could waste them (for the cause<br>
+Of their gaunt hollowness and scaly rind<br>
+Appear'd not) lo! a spirit turn'd his eyes<br>
+In their deep-sunken cell, and fasten'd then<br>
+On me, then cried with vehemence aloud:<br>
+"What grace is this vouchsaf'd me?" &nbsp;By his looks<br>
+I ne'er had recogniz'd him: but the voice<br>
+Brought to my knowledge what his cheer conceal'd.<br>
+Remembrance of his alter'd lineaments<br>
+Was kindled from that spark; and I agniz'd<br>
+The visage of Forese. &nbsp;"Ah! respect<br>
+This wan and leprous wither'd skin," thus he<br>
+Suppliant implor'd, "this macerated flesh.<br>
+Speak to me truly of thyself. &nbsp;And who<br>
+Are those twain spirits, that escort thee there?<br>
+Be it not said thou Scorn'st to talk with me."<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/23-47.jpg"><img alt="23-47th.jpg (46K)" src="images/23-47th.jpg" height="471" width="430"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>"That face of thine," I answer'd him, "which dead<br>
+I once bewail'd, disposes me not less<br>
+For weeping, when I see It thus transform'd.<br>
+Say then, by Heav'n, what blasts ye thus? &nbsp;The whilst<br>
+I wonder, ask not Speech from me: unapt<br>
+Is he to speak, whom other will employs."<br>
+<br>He thus: "The water and tee plant we pass'd,<br>
+Virtue possesses, by th' eternal will<br>
+Infus'd, the which so pines me. &nbsp;Every spirit,<br>
+Whose song bewails his gluttony indulg'd<br>
+Too grossly, here in hunger and in thirst<br>
+Is purified. &nbsp;The odour, which the fruit,<br>
+And spray, that showers upon the verdure, breathe,<br>
+Inflames us with desire to feed and drink.<br>
+Nor once alone encompassing our route<br>
+We come to add fresh fuel to the pain:<br>
+Pain, said I? &nbsp;solace rather: for that will<br>
+To the tree leads us, by which Christ was led<br>
+To call Elias, joyful when he paid<br>
+Our ransom from his vein." &nbsp;I answering thus:<br>
+"Forese! from that day, in which the world<br>
+For better life thou changedst, not five years<br>
+Have circled. &nbsp;If the power of sinning more<br>
+Were first concluded in thee, ere thou knew'st<br>
+That kindly grief, which re-espouses us<br>
+To God, how hither art thou come so soon?<br>
+I thought to find thee lower, there, where time<br>
+Is recompense for time." &nbsp;He straight replied:<br>
+"To drink up the sweet wormwood of affliction<br>
+I have been brought thus early by the tears<br>
+Stream'd down my Nella's cheeks. &nbsp;Her prayers devout,<br>
+Her sighs have drawn me from the coast, where oft<br>
+Expectance lingers, and have set me free<br>
+From th' other circles. &nbsp;In the sight of God<br>
+So much the dearer is my widow priz'd,<br>
+She whom I lov'd so fondly, as she ranks<br>
+More singly eminent for virtuous deeds.<br>
+The tract most barb'rous of Sardinia's isle,<br>
+Hath dames more chaste and modester by far<br>
+Than that wherein I left her. &nbsp;O sweet brother!<br>
+What wouldst thou have me say? &nbsp;A time to come<br>
+Stands full within my view, to which this hour<br>
+Shall not be counted of an ancient date,<br>
+When from the pulpit shall be loudly warn'd<br>
+Th' unblushing dames of Florence, lest they bare<br>
+Unkerchief'd bosoms to the common gaze.<br>
+What savage women hath the world e'er seen,<br>
+What Saracens, for whom there needed scourge<br>
+Of spiritual or other discipline,<br>
+To force them walk with cov'ring on their limbs!<br>
+But did they see, the shameless ones, that Heav'n<br>
+Wafts on swift wing toward them, while I speak,<br>
+Their mouths were op'd for howling: they shall taste<br>
+Of Borrow (unless foresight cheat me here)<br>
+Or ere the cheek of him be cloth'd with down<br>
+Who is now rock'd with lullaby asleep.<br>
+Ah! now, my brother, hide thyself no more,<br>
+Thou seest how not I alone but all<br>
+Gaze, where thou veil'st the intercepted sun."<br>
+<br>Whence I replied: "If thou recall to mind<br>
+What we were once together, even yet<br>
+Remembrance of those days may grieve thee sore.<br>
+That I forsook that life, was due to him<br>
+Who there precedes me, some few evenings past,<br>
+When she was round, who shines with sister lamp<br>
+To his, that glisters yonder," and I show'd<br>
+The sun. &nbsp;"Tis he, who through profoundest night<br>
+Of he true dead has brought me, with this flesh<br>
+As true, that follows. &nbsp;From that gloom the aid<br>
+Of his sure comfort drew me on to climb,<br>
+And climbing wind along this mountain-steep,<br>
+Which rectifies in you whate'er the world<br>
+Made crooked and deprav'd I have his word,<br>
+That he will bear me company as far<br>
+As till I come where Beatrice dwells:<br>
+But there must leave me. &nbsp;Virgil is that spirit,<br>
+Who thus hath promis'd," &nbsp;and I pointed to him;<br>
+"The other is that shade, for whom so late<br>
+Your realm, as he arose, exulting shook<br>
+Through every pendent cliff and rocky bound."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="24"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXIV</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Our journey was not slacken'd by our talk,<br>
+Nor yet our talk by journeying. &nbsp;Still we spake,<br>
+And urg'd our travel stoutly, like a ship<br>
+When the wind sits astern. &nbsp;The shadowy forms,<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/24-4.jpg"><img alt="24-4th.jpg (38K)" src="images/24-4th.jpg" height="464" width="434"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+That seem'd things dead and dead again, drew in<br>
+At their deep-delved orbs rare wonder of me,<br>
+Perceiving I had life; and I my words<br>
+Continued, and thus spake; "He journeys up<br>
+Perhaps more tardily then else he would,<br>
+For others' sake. &nbsp;But tell me, if thou know'st,<br>
+Where is Piccarda? &nbsp;Tell me, if I see<br>
+Any of mark, among this multitude,<br>
+Who eye me thus."&mdash;"My sister (she for whom,<br>
+'Twixt beautiful and good I cannot say<br>
+Which name was fitter ) wears e'en now her crown,<br>
+And triumphs in Olympus." &nbsp;Saying this,<br>
+He added: "Since spare diet hath so worn<br>
+Our semblance out, 't is lawful here to name<br>
+Each one. &nbsp;This," and his finger then he rais'd,<br>
+"Is Buonaggiuna,&mdash;Buonaggiuna, he<br>
+Of Lucca: and that face beyond him, pierc'd<br>
+Unto a leaner fineness than the rest,<br>
+Had keeping of the church: he was of Tours,<br>
+And purges by wan abstinence away<br>
+Bolsena's eels and cups of muscadel."<br>
+<br>He show'd me many others, one by one,<br>
+And all, as they were nam'd, seem'd well content;<br>
+For no dark gesture I discern'd in any.<br>
+I saw through hunger Ubaldino grind<br>
+His teeth on emptiness; and Boniface,<br>
+That wav'd the crozier o'er a num'rous flock.<br>
+I saw the Marquis, who tad time erewhile<br>
+To swill at Forli with less drought, yet so<br>
+Was one ne'er sated. &nbsp;I howe'er, like him,<br>
+That gazing 'midst a crowd, singles out one,<br>
+So singled him of Lucca; for methought<br>
+Was none amongst them took such note of me.<br>
+Somewhat I heard him whisper of Gentucca:<br>
+The sound was indistinct, and murmur'd there,<br>
+Where justice, that so strips them, fix'd her sting.<br>
+<br>"Spirit!" said I, "it seems as thou wouldst fain<br>
+Speak with me. &nbsp;Let me hear thee. &nbsp;Mutual wish<br>
+To converse prompts, which let us both indulge."<br>
+<br>He, answ'ring, straight began: "Woman is born,<br>
+Whose brow no wimple shades yet, that shall make<br>
+My city please thee, blame it as they may.<br>
+Go then with this forewarning. &nbsp;If aught false<br>
+My whisper too implied, th' event shall tell<br>
+But say, if of a &nbsp;truth I see the man<br>
+Of that new lay th' inventor, which begins<br>
+With 'Ladies, ye that con the lore of love'."<br>
+<br>To whom I thus: "Count of me but as one<br>
+Who am the scribe of love; that, when he breathes,<br>
+Take up my pen, and, as he dictates, write."<br>
+<br>"Brother!" said he, "the hind'rance which once held<br>
+The notary with Guittone and myself,<br>
+Short of that new and sweeter style I hear,<br>
+Is now disclos'd. &nbsp;I see how ye your plumes<br>
+Stretch, as th' inditer guides them; which, no question,<br>
+Ours did not. &nbsp;He that seeks a grace beyond,<br>
+Sees not the distance parts one style from other."<br>
+And, as contented, here he held his peace.<br>
+<br>Like as the bird, that winter near the Nile,<br>
+In squared regiment direct their course,<br>
+Then stretch themselves in file for speedier flight;<br>
+Thus all the tribe of spirits, as they turn'd<br>
+Their visage, faster deaf, nimble alike<br>
+Through leanness and desire. &nbsp;And as a man,<br>
+Tir'd With the motion of a trotting steed,<br>
+Slacks pace, and stays behind his company,<br>
+Till his o'erbreathed lungs keep temperate time;<br>
+E'en so Forese let that holy crew<br>
+Proceed, behind them lingering at my side,<br>
+And saying: "When shall I again behold thee?"<br>
+<br>"How long my life may last," said I, "I know not;<br>
+This know, how soon soever I return,<br>
+My wishes will before me have arriv'd.<br>
+Sithence the place, where I am set to live,<br>
+Is, day by day, more scoop'd of all its good,<br>
+And dismal ruin seems to threaten it."<br>
+<br>"Go now," he cried: "lo! he, whose guilt is most,<br>
+Passes before my vision, dragg'd at heels<br>
+Of an infuriate beast. &nbsp;Toward the vale,<br>
+Where guilt hath no redemption, on it speeds,<br>
+Each step increasing swiftness on the last;<br>
+Until a blow it strikes, that leaveth him<br>
+A corse most vilely shatter'd. &nbsp;No long space<br>
+Those wheels have yet to roll" &nbsp;(therewith his eyes<br>
+Look'd up to heav'n) "ere thou shalt plainly see<br>
+That which my words may not more plainly tell.<br>
+I quit thee: time is precious here: I lose<br>
+Too much, thus measuring my pace with shine."<br>
+<br>As from a troop of well-rank'd chivalry<br>
+One knight, more enterprising than the rest,<br>
+Pricks forth at gallop, eager to display<br>
+His prowess in the first encounter prov'd<br>
+So parted he from us with lengthen'd strides,<br>
+And left me on the way with those twain spirits,<br>
+Who were such mighty marshals of the world.<br>
+<br>When he beyond us had so fled mine eyes<br>
+No nearer reach'd him, than my thought his words,<br>
+The branches of another fruit, thick hung,<br>
+And blooming fresh, appear'd. &nbsp;E'en as our steps<br>
+Turn'd thither, not far off it rose to view.<br>
+Beneath it were a multitude, that rais'd<br>
+Their hands, and shouted forth I know not What<br>
+Unto the boughs; like greedy and fond brats,<br>
+That beg, and answer none obtain from him,<br>
+Of whom they beg; but more to draw them on,<br>
+He at arm's length the object of their wish<br>
+Above them holds aloft, and hides it not.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/24-112.jpg"><img alt="24-112th.jpg (43K)" src="images/24-112th.jpg" height="476" width="434"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>At length, as undeceiv'd they went their way:<br>
+And we approach the tree, who vows and tears<br>
+Sue to in vain, the mighty tree. &nbsp;"Pass on,<br>
+And come not near. &nbsp;Stands higher up the wood,<br>
+Whereof Eve tasted, and from it was ta'en<br>
+'this plant." Such sounds from midst the thickets came.<br>
+Whence I, with either bard, close to the side<br>
+That rose, pass'd forth beyond. &nbsp;"Remember," next<br>
+We heard, "those noblest creatures of the clouds,<br>
+How they their twofold bosoms overgorg'd<br>
+Oppos'd in fight to Theseus: call to mind<br>
+The Hebrews, how effeminate they stoop'd<br>
+To ease their thirst; whence Gideon's ranks were thinn'd,<br>
+As he to Midian march'd adown the hills."<br>
+<br>Thus near one border coasting, still we heard<br>
+The sins of gluttony, with woe erewhile<br>
+Reguerdon'd. &nbsp;Then along the lonely path,<br>
+Once more at large, full thousand paces on<br>
+We travel'd, each contemplative and mute.<br>
+<br>"Why pensive journey thus ye three alone?"<br>
+Thus suddenly a voice exclaim'd: whereat<br>
+I shook, as doth a scar'd and paltry beast;<br>
+Then rais'd my head to look from whence it came.<br>
+<br>Was ne'er, in furnace, glass, or metal seen<br>
+So bright and glowing red, as was the shape<br>
+I now beheld. &nbsp;"If ye desire to mount,"<br>
+He cried, "here must ye turn. &nbsp;This way he goes,<br>
+Who goes in quest of peace." &nbsp;His countenance<br>
+Had dazzled me; and to my guides I fac'd<br>
+Backward, like one who walks, as sound directs.<br>
+<br>As when, to harbinger the dawn, springs up<br>
+On freshen'd wing the air of May, and breathes<br>
+Of fragrance, all impregn'd with herb and flowers,<br>
+E'en such a wind I felt upon my front<br>
+Blow gently, and the moving of a wing<br>
+Perceiv'd, that moving shed ambrosial smell;<br>
+And then a voice: "Blessed are they, whom grace<br>
+Doth so illume, that appetite in them<br>
+Exhaleth no inordinate desire,<br>
+Still hung'ring as the rule of temperance wills."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="25"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXV</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>It was an hour, when he who climbs, had need<br>
+To walk uncrippled: for the sun had now<br>
+To Taurus the meridian circle left,<br>
+And to the Scorpion left the night. &nbsp;As one<br>
+That makes no pause, but presses on his road,<br>
+Whate'er betide him, if some urgent need<br>
+Impel: so enter'd we upon our way,<br>
+One before other; for, but singly, none<br>
+That steep and narrow scale admits to climb.<br>
+<br>E'en as the young stork lifteth up his wing<br>
+Through wish to fly, yet ventures not to quit<br>
+The nest, and drops it; so in me desire<br>
+Of questioning my guide arose, and fell,<br>
+Arriving even to the act, that marks<br>
+A man prepar'd for speech. &nbsp;Him all our haste<br>
+Restrain'd not, but thus spake the sire belov'd:<br>
+"Fear not to speed the shaft, that on thy lip<br>
+Stands trembling for its flight." &nbsp;Encourag'd thus<br>
+I straight began: "How there can leanness come,<br>
+Where is no want of nourishment to feed?"<br>
+<br>"If thou," he answer'd, "hadst remember'd thee,<br>
+How Meleager with the wasting brand<br>
+Wasted alike, by equal fires consum'd,<br>
+This would not trouble thee: and hadst thou thought,<br>
+How in the mirror your reflected form<br>
+With mimic motion vibrates, what now seems<br>
+Hard, had appear'd no harder than the pulp<br>
+Of summer fruit mature. &nbsp;But that thy will<br>
+In certainty may find its full repose,<br>
+Lo Statius here! on him I call, and pray<br>
+That he would now be healer of thy wound."<br>
+<br>"If in thy presence I unfold to him<br>
+The secrets of heaven's vengeance, let me plead<br>
+Thine own injunction, to exculpate me."<br>
+So Statius answer'd, and forthwith began:<br>
+"Attend my words, O son, and in thy mind<br>
+Receive them: so shall they be light to clear<br>
+The doubt thou offer'st. Blood, concocted well,<br>
+Which by the thirsty veins is ne'er imbib'd,<br>
+And rests as food superfluous, to be ta'en<br>
+From the replenish'd table, in the heart<br>
+Derives effectual virtue, that informs<br>
+The several human limbs, as being that,<br>
+Which passes through the veins itself to make them.<br>
+Yet more concocted it descends, where shame<br>
+Forbids to mention: and from thence distils<br>
+In natural vessel on another's blood.<br>
+Then each unite together, one dispos'd<br>
+T' endure, to act the other, through meet frame<br>
+Of its recipient mould: that being reach'd,<br>
+It 'gins to work, coagulating first;<br>
+Then vivifies what its own substance caus'd<br>
+To bear. &nbsp;With animation now indued,<br>
+The active virtue (differing from a plant<br>
+No further, than that this is on the way<br>
+And at its limit that) continues yet<br>
+To operate, that now it moves, and feels,<br>
+As sea sponge clinging to the rock: and there<br>
+Assumes th' organic powers its seed convey'd.<br>
+'This is the period, son! at which the virtue,<br>
+That from the generating heart proceeds,<br>
+Is pliant and expansive; for each limb<br>
+Is in the heart by forgeful nature plann'd.<br>
+How babe of animal becomes, remains<br>
+For thy consid'ring. &nbsp;At this point, more wise,<br>
+Than thou hast err'd, making the soul disjoin'd<br>
+From passive intellect, because he saw<br>
+No organ for the latter's use assign'd.<br>
+<br>"Open thy bosom to the truth that comes.<br>
+Know soon as in the embryo, to the brain,<br>
+Articulation is complete, then turns<br>
+The primal Mover with a smile of joy<br>
+On such great work of nature, and imbreathes<br>
+New spirit replete with virtue, that what here<br>
+Active it finds, to its own substance draws,<br>
+And forms an individual soul, that lives,<br>
+And feels, and bends reflective on itself.<br>
+And that thou less mayst marvel at the word,<br>
+Mark the sun's heat, how that to wine doth change,<br>
+Mix'd with the moisture filter'd through the vine.<br>
+<br>"When Lachesis hath spun the thread, the soul<br>
+Takes with her both the human and divine,<br>
+Memory, intelligence, and will, in act<br>
+Far keener than before, the other powers<br>
+Inactive all and mute. &nbsp;No pause allow'd,<br>
+In wond'rous sort self-moving, to one strand<br>
+Of those, where the departed roam, she falls,<br>
+Here learns her destin'd path. &nbsp;Soon as the place<br>
+Receives her, round the plastic virtue beams,<br>
+Distinct as in the living limbs before:<br>
+And as the air, when saturate with showers,<br>
+The casual beam refracting, decks itself<br>
+With many a hue; so here the ambient air<br>
+Weareth that form, which influence of the soul<br>
+Imprints on it; and like the flame, that where<br>
+The fire moves, thither follows, so henceforth<br>
+The new form on the spirit follows still:<br>
+Hence hath it semblance, and is shadow call'd,<br>
+With each sense even to the sight endued:<br>
+Hence speech is ours, hence laughter, tears, and sighs<br>
+Which thou mayst oft have witness'd on the mount<br>
+Th' obedient shadow fails not to present<br>
+Whatever varying passion moves within us.<br>
+And this the cause of what thou marvel'st at."<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/25-107.jpg"><img alt="25-107th.jpg (38K)" src="images/25-107th.jpg" height="477" width="429"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>Now the last flexure of our way we reach'd,<br>
+And to the right hand turning, other care<br>
+Awaits us. &nbsp;Here the rocky precipice<br>
+Hurls forth redundant flames, and from the rim<br>
+A blast upblown, with forcible rebuff<br>
+Driveth them back, sequester'd from its bound.<br>
+<br>Behoov'd us, one by one, along the side,<br>
+That border'd on the void, to pass; and I<br>
+Fear'd on one hand the fire, on th' other fear'd<br>
+Headlong to fall: when thus th' instructor warn'd:<br>
+"Strict rein must in this place direct the eyes.<br>
+A little swerving and the way is lost."<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/25-117.jpg"><img alt="25-117th.jpg (38K)" src="images/25-117th.jpg" height="475" width="434"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>Then from the bosom of the burning mass,<br>
+"O God of mercy!" heard I sung; and felt<br>
+No less desire to turn. &nbsp;And when I saw<br>
+Spirits along the flame proceeding, I<br>
+Between their footsteps and mine own was fain<br>
+To share by turns my view. &nbsp;At the hymn's close<br>
+They shouted loud, "I do not know a man;"<br>
+Then in low voice again took up the strain,<br>
+Which once more ended, "To the wood," they cried,<br>
+"Ran Dian, and drave forth Callisto, stung<br>
+With Cytherea's poison:" then return'd<br>
+Unto their song; then marry a pair extoll'd,<br>
+Who liv'd in virtue chastely, and the bands<br>
+Of wedded love. &nbsp;Nor from that task, I ween,<br>
+Surcease they; whilesoe'er the scorching fire<br>
+Enclasps them. &nbsp;Of such skill appliance needs<br>
+To medicine the wound, that healeth last.</p>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/25-119.jpg"><img alt="25-119th.jpg (33K)" src="images/25-119th.jpg" height="473" width="440"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+
+
+<br>
+<br>
+
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=4 border=3>
+<tr><td>
+ &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p3.htm">Previous Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="8795-h.htm">Main Index</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p5.htm">Next Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
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+<title>Dante's Purgatory, Part 5.</title>
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+<h2>THE VISION OF PURGATORY, Part 5.</h2>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="" cellPadding=4 border=3>
+<tr><td>
+ &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="p4.htm">Previous Part</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+</td><td>
+&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="8795-h.htm">Main Index</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
+ </td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+
+<center>
+<h1>THE VISION</h1><br>
+<h2>OF</h2><br>
+<h1>HELL, PURGATORY, AND PARADISE</h1><br>
+<h2>BY</h2><br>
+<h1>DANTE ALIGHIERI</h1>
+
+<br><br><br>
+<br><br><br>
+<h2>PURGATORY</h2>
+<h3>Part 5</h3>
+<br><br><br>
+<h3>TRANSLATED BY</h3><br>
+<h2>THE REV. H. F. CARY, M.A.</h2>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/cover.jpg"><img alt="coverth.jpg (42K)" src="images/coverth.jpg" height="478" width="553"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/frontispiece.jpg"><img alt="front2.jpg (41K)" src="images/front2.jpg" height="477" width="431"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/titlepage.jpg"><img alt="title2.jpg (21K)" src="images/title2.jpg" height="535" width="416"></a>
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<h1>PURGATORY</h1>
+</center>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<center>
+<h2>LIST OF CANTOS</h2>
+</center>
+
+<center>
+<table summary="Contents">
+<tr><td>
+
+
+<a href="#26">Canto 26</a><br>
+<a href="#27">Canto 27</a><br>
+<a href="#28">Canto 28</a><br>
+<a href="#29">Canto 29</a><br>
+<a href="#30">Canto 30</a><br>
+<a href="#31">Canto 31</a><br>
+<a href="#32">Canto 32</a><br>
+<a href="#33">Canto 33</a><br>
+
+
+
+</td></tr>
+</table>
+</center>
+<br><br><br><br>
+<center>
+<table summary="Purgatory">
+<tr><td>
+<br><br>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<a name="26"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXVI</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>While singly thus along the rim we walk'd,<br>
+Oft the good master warn'd me: "Look thou well.<br>
+Avail it that I caution thee." &nbsp;The sun<br>
+Now all the western clime irradiate chang'd<br>
+From azure tinct to white; and, as I pass'd,<br>
+My passing shadow made the umber'd flame<br>
+Burn ruddier. &nbsp;At so strange a sight I mark'd<br>
+That many a spirit marvel'd on his way.<br>
+<br>This bred occasion first to speak of me,<br>
+"He seems," said they, "no insubstantial frame:"<br>
+Then to obtain what certainty they might,<br>
+Stretch'd towards me, careful not to overpass<br>
+The burning pale. &nbsp;"O thou, who followest<br>
+The others, haply not more slow than they,<br>
+But mov'd by rev'rence, answer me, who burn<br>
+In thirst and fire: nor I alone, but these<br>
+All for thine answer do more thirst, than doth<br>
+Indian or Aethiop for the cooling stream.<br>
+Tell us, how is it that thou mak'st thyself<br>
+A wall against the sun, as thou not yet<br>
+Into th' inextricable toils of death<br>
+Hadst enter'd?" &nbsp;Thus spake one, and I had straight<br>
+Declar'd me, if attention had not turn'd<br>
+To new appearance. &nbsp;Meeting these, there came,<br>
+Midway the burning path, a crowd, on whom<br>
+Earnestly gazing, from each part I view<br>
+The shadows all press forward, sev'rally<br>
+Each snatch a hasty kiss, and then away.<br>
+E'en so the emmets, 'mid their dusky troops,<br>
+Peer closely one at other, to spy out<br>
+Their mutual road perchance, and how they thrive.<br>
+<br>That friendly greeting parted, ere dispatch<br>
+Of the first onward step, from either tribe<br>
+Loud clamour rises: those, who newly come,<br>
+Shout &nbsp;"Sodom and Gomorrah!" these, "The cow<br>
+Pasiphae enter'd, that the beast she woo'd<br>
+Might rush unto her luxury." &nbsp;Then as cranes,<br>
+That part towards the Riphaean mountains fly,<br>
+Part towards the Lybic sands, these to avoid<br>
+The ice, and those the sun; so hasteth off<br>
+One crowd, advances th' other; and resume<br>
+Their first song weeping, and their several shout.<br>
+<br>Again drew near my side the very same,<br>
+Who had erewhile besought me, and their looks<br>
+Mark'd eagerness to listen. &nbsp;I, who twice<br>
+Their will had noted, spake: "O spirits secure,<br>
+Whene'er the time may be, of peaceful end!<br>
+My limbs, nor crude, nor in mature old age,<br>
+Have I left yonder: here they bear me, fed<br>
+With blood, and sinew-strung. &nbsp;That I no more<br>
+May live in blindness, hence I tend aloft.<br>
+There is a dame on high, who wind for us<br>
+This grace, by which my mortal through your realm<br>
+I bear. &nbsp;But may your utmost wish soon meet<br>
+Such full fruition, that the orb of heaven,<br>
+Fullest of love, and of most ample space,<br>
+Receive you, as ye tell (upon my page<br>
+Henceforth to stand recorded) who ye are,<br>
+And what this multitude, that at your backs<br>
+Have past behind us." &nbsp;As one, mountain-bred,<br>
+Rugged and clownish, if some city's walls<br>
+He chance to enter, round him stares agape,<br>
+Confounded and struck dumb; e'en such appear'd<br>
+Each spirit. &nbsp;But when rid of that amaze,<br>
+(Not long the inmate of a noble heart)<br>
+He, who before had question'd, thus resum'd:<br>
+"O blessed, who, for death preparing, tak'st<br>
+Experience of our limits, in thy bark!<br>
+Their crime, who not with us proceed, was that,<br>
+For which, as he did triumph, Caesar heard<br>
+The snout of 'queen,' to taunt him. &nbsp;Hence their cry<br>
+Of 'Sodom,' as they parted, to rebuke<br>
+Themselves, and aid the burning by their shame.<br>
+Our sinning was Hermaphrodite: but we,<br>
+Because the law of human kind we broke,<br>
+Following like beasts our vile concupiscence,<br>
+Hence parting from them, to our own disgrace<br>
+Record the name of her, by whom the beast<br>
+In bestial tire was acted. &nbsp;Now our deeds<br>
+Thou know'st, and how we sinn'd. &nbsp;If thou by name<br>
+Wouldst haply know us, time permits not now<br>
+To tell so much, nor can I. &nbsp;Of myself<br>
+Learn what thou wishest. &nbsp;Guinicelli I,<br>
+Who having truly sorrow'd ere my last,<br>
+Already cleanse me." &nbsp;With such pious joy,<br>
+As the two sons upon their mother gaz'd<br>
+From sad Lycurgus rescu'd, such my joy<br>
+(Save that I more represt it) when I heard<br>
+From his own lips the name of him pronounc'd,<br>
+Who was a father to me, and to those<br>
+My betters, who have ever us'd the sweet<br>
+And pleasant rhymes of love. &nbsp;So nought I heard<br>
+Nor spake, but long time thoughtfully I went,<br>
+Gazing on him; and, only for the fire,<br>
+Approach'd not nearer. &nbsp;When my eyes were fed<br>
+By looking on him, with such solemn pledge,<br>
+As forces credence, I devoted me<br>
+Unto his service wholly. &nbsp;In reply<br>
+He thus bespake me: "What from thee I hear<br>
+Is grav'd so deeply on my mind, the waves<br>
+Of Lethe shall not wash it off, nor make<br>
+A whit less lively. &nbsp;But as now thy oath<br>
+Has seal'd the truth, declare what cause impels<br>
+That love, which both thy looks and speech bewray."<br>
+<br>"Those dulcet lays," I answer'd, "which, as long<br>
+As of our tongue the beauty does not fade,<br>
+Shall make us love the very ink that trac'd them."<br>
+<br>"Brother!" &nbsp;he cried, and pointed at a shade<br>
+Before him, "there is one, whose mother speech<br>
+Doth owe to him a fairer ornament.<br>
+He in love ditties and the tales of prose<br>
+Without a rival stands, and lets the fools<br>
+Talk on, who think the songster of Limoges<br>
+O'ertops him. &nbsp;Rumour and the popular voice<br>
+They look to more than truth, and so confirm<br>
+Opinion, ere by art or reason taught.<br>
+Thus many of the elder time cried up<br>
+Guittone, giving him the prize, till truth<br>
+By strength of numbers vanquish'd. &nbsp;If thou own<br>
+So ample privilege, as to have gain'd<br>
+Free entrance to the cloister, whereof Christ<br>
+Is Abbot of the college, say to him<br>
+One paternoster for me, far as needs<br>
+For dwellers in this world, where power to sin<br>
+No longer tempts us." &nbsp;Haply to make way<br>
+For one, that follow'd next, when that was said,<br>
+He vanish'd through the fire, as through the wave<br>
+A fish, that glances diving to the deep.<br>
+<br>I, to the spirit he had shown me, drew<br>
+A little onward, and besought his name,<br>
+For which my heart, I said, kept gracious room.<br>
+He frankly thus began: "Thy courtesy<br>
+So wins on me, I have nor power nor will<br>
+To hide me. &nbsp;I am Arnault; and with songs,<br>
+Sorely lamenting for my folly past,<br>
+Thorough this ford of fire I wade, and see<br>
+The day, I hope for, smiling in my view.<br>
+I pray ye by the worth that guides ye up<br>
+Unto the summit of the scale, in time<br>
+Remember ye my suff'rings." &nbsp;With such words<br>
+He disappear'd in the refining flame.</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="27"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXVII</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Now was the sun so station'd, as when first<br>
+His early radiance quivers on the heights,<br>
+Where stream'd his Maker's blood, while Libra hangs<br>
+Above Hesperian Ebro, and new fires<br>
+Meridian flash on Ganges' yellow tide.<br>
+<br>So day was sinking, when the' angel of God<br>
+Appear'd before us. &nbsp;Joy was in his mien.<br>
+Forth of the flame he stood upon the brink,<br>
+And with a voice, whose lively clearness far<br>
+Surpass'd our human, "Blessed are the pure<br>
+In heart," he Sang: then near him as we came,<br>
+"Go ye not further, holy spirits!" &nbsp;he cried,<br>
+"Ere the fire pierce you: enter in; and list<br>
+Attentive to the song ye hear from thence."<br>
+<br>I, when I heard his saying, was as one<br>
+Laid in the grave. &nbsp;My hands together clasp'd,<br>
+And upward stretching, on the fire I look'd,<br>
+And busy fancy conjur'd up the forms<br>
+Erewhile beheld alive consum'd in flames.<br>
+<br>Th' escorting spirits turn'd with gentle looks<br>
+Toward me, and the Mantuan spake: "My son,<br>
+Here torment thou mayst feel, but canst not death.<br>
+Remember thee, remember thee, if I<br>
+Safe e'en on Geryon brought thee: now I come<br>
+More near to God, wilt thou not trust me now?<br>
+Of this be sure: though in its womb that flame<br>
+A thousand years contain'd thee, from thy head<br>
+No hair should perish. &nbsp;If thou doubt my truth,<br>
+Approach, and with thy hands thy vesture's hem<br>
+Stretch forth, and for thyself confirm belief.<br>
+Lay now all fear, O lay all fear aside.<br>
+Turn hither, and come onward undismay'd."<br>
+I still, though conscience urg'd' no step advanc'd.<br>
+<br>When still he saw me fix'd and obstinate,<br>
+Somewhat disturb'd he cried: "Mark now, my son,<br>
+From Beatrice thou art by this wall<br>
+Divided." &nbsp;As at Thisbe's name the eye<br>
+Of Pyramus was open'd (when life ebb'd<br>
+Fast from his veins), and took one parting glance,<br>
+While vermeil dyed the mulberry; thus I turn'd<br>
+To my sage guide, relenting, when I heard<br>
+The name, that springs forever in my breast.<br>
+<br>He shook his forehead; and, "How long," he said,<br>
+"Linger we now?" &nbsp;then smil'd, as one would smile<br>
+Upon a child, that eyes the fruit and yields.<br>
+Into the fire before me then he walk'd;<br>
+And Statius, who erewhile no little space<br>
+Had parted us, he pray'd to come behind.<br>
+<br>I would have cast me into molten glass<br>
+To cool me, when I enter'd; so intense<br>
+Rag'd the conflagrant mass. &nbsp;The sire belov'd,<br>
+To comfort me, as he proceeded, still<br>
+Of Beatrice talk'd. &nbsp;"Her eyes," saith he,<br>
+"E'en now I seem to view." &nbsp;From the other side<br>
+A voice, that sang, did guide us, and the voice<br>
+Following, with heedful ear, we issued forth,<br>
+There where the path led upward. &nbsp;"Come," we heard,<br>
+"Come, blessed of my Father." &nbsp;Such the sounds,<br>
+That hail'd us from within a light, which shone<br>
+So radiant, I could not endure the view.<br>
+"The sun," it added, "hastes: and evening comes.<br>
+Delay not: ere the western sky is hung<br>
+With blackness, strive ye for the pass." &nbsp;Our way<br>
+Upright within the rock arose, and fac'd<br>
+Such part of heav'n, that from before my steps<br>
+The beams were shrouded of the sinking sun.<br>
+<br>Nor many stairs were overpass, when now<br>
+By fading of the shadow we perceiv'd<br>
+The sun behind us couch'd: and ere one face<br>
+Of darkness o'er its measureless expanse<br>
+Involv'd th' horizon, and the night her lot<br>
+Held individual, each of us had made<br>
+A stair his pallet: not that will, but power,<br>
+Had fail'd us, by the nature of that mount<br>
+Forbidden further travel. &nbsp;As the goats,<br>
+That late have skipp'd and wanton'd rapidly<br>
+Upon the craggy cliffs, ere they had ta'en<br>
+Their supper on the herb, now silent lie<br>
+And ruminate beneath the umbrage brown,<br>
+While noonday rages; and the goatherd leans<br>
+Upon his staff, and leaning watches them:<br>
+And as the swain, that lodges out all night<br>
+In quiet by his flock, lest beast of prey<br>
+Disperse them; even so all three abode,<br>
+I as a goat and as the shepherds they,<br>
+Close pent on either side by shelving rock.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/27-97.jpg"><img alt="27-97th.jpg (40K)" src="images/27-97th.jpg" height="456" width="433"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>A little glimpse of sky was seen above;<br>
+Yet by that little I beheld the stars<br>
+In magnitude and rustle shining forth<br>
+With more than wonted glory. &nbsp;As I lay,<br>
+Gazing on them, and in that fit of musing,<br>
+Sleep overcame me, sleep, that bringeth oft<br>
+Tidings of future hap. &nbsp;About the hour,<br>
+As I believe, when Venus from the east<br>
+First lighten'd on the mountain, she whose orb<br>
+Seems always glowing with the fire of love,<br>
+A lady young and beautiful, I dream'd,<br>
+Was passing o'er a lea; and, as she came,<br>
+Methought I saw her ever and anon<br>
+Bending to cull the flowers; and thus she sang:<br>
+"Know ye, whoever of my name would ask,<br>
+That I am Leah: for my brow to weave<br>
+A garland, these fair hands unwearied ply.<br>
+To please me at the crystal mirror, here<br>
+I deck me. &nbsp;But my sister Rachel, she<br>
+Before her glass abides the livelong day,<br>
+Her radiant eyes beholding, charm'd no less,<br>
+Than I with this delightful task. &nbsp;Her joy<br>
+In contemplation, as in labour mine."<br>
+<br>And now as glimm'ring dawn appear'd, that breaks<br>
+More welcome to the pilgrim still, as he<br>
+Sojourns less distant on his homeward way,<br>
+Darkness from all sides fled, and with it fled<br>
+My slumber; whence I rose and saw my guide<br>
+Already risen. &nbsp;"That delicious fruit,<br>
+Which through so many a branch the zealous care<br>
+Of mortals roams in quest of, shall this day<br>
+Appease thy hunger." &nbsp;Such the words I heard<br>
+From Virgil's lip; and never greeting heard<br>
+So pleasant as the sounds. &nbsp;Within me straight<br>
+Desire so grew upon desire to mount,<br>
+Thenceforward at each step I felt the wings<br>
+Increasing for my flight. &nbsp;When we had run<br>
+O'er all the ladder to its topmost round,<br>
+As there we stood, on me the Mantuan fix'd<br>
+His eyes, and thus he spake: "Both fires, my son,<br>
+The temporal and eternal, thou hast seen,<br>
+And art arriv'd, where of itself my ken<br>
+No further reaches. &nbsp;I with skill and art<br>
+Thus far have drawn thee. &nbsp;Now thy pleasure take<br>
+For guide. &nbsp;Thou hast o'ercome the steeper way,<br>
+O'ercome the straighter. &nbsp;Lo! the sun, that darts<br>
+His beam upon thy forehead! lo! the herb,<br>
+The arboreta and flowers, which of itself<br>
+This land pours forth profuse!  Till those bright eyes<br>
+With gladness come, which, weeping, made me haste<br>
+To succour thee, thou mayst or seat thee down,<br>
+Or wander where thou wilt. &nbsp;Expect no more<br>
+Sanction of warning voice or sign from me,<br>
+Free of thy own arbitrement to choose,<br>
+Discreet, judicious. &nbsp;To distrust thy sense<br>
+Were henceforth error. &nbsp;I invest thee then<br>
+With crown and mitre, sovereign o'er thyself."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="28"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXVIII</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Through that celestial forest, whose thick shade<br>
+With lively greenness the new-springing day<br>
+Attemper'd, eager now to roam, and search<br>
+Its limits round, forthwith I left the bank,<br>
+Along the champain leisurely my way<br>
+Pursuing, o'er the ground, that on all sides<br>
+Delicious odour breath'd. &nbsp;A pleasant air,<br>
+That intermitted never, never veer'd,<br>
+Smote on my temples, gently, as a wind<br>
+Of softest influence: at which the sprays,<br>
+Obedient all, lean'd trembling to that part<br>
+Where first the holy mountain casts his shade,<br>
+Yet were not so disorder'd, but that still<br>
+Upon their top the feather'd quiristers<br>
+Applied their wonted art, and with full joy<br>
+Welcom'd those hours of prime, and warbled shrill<br>
+Amid the leaves, that to their jocund lays<br>
+inept tenor; even as from branch to branch,<br>
+Along the piney forests on the shore<br>
+Of Chiassi, rolls the gath'ring melody,<br>
+When Eolus hath from his cavern loos'd<br>
+The dripping south. &nbsp;Already had my steps,<br>
+Though slow, so far into that ancient wood<br>
+Transported me, I could not ken the place<br>
+Where I had enter'd, when behold! my path<br>
+Was bounded by a rill, which to the left<br>
+With little rippling waters bent the grass,<br>
+That issued from its brink. &nbsp;On earth no wave<br>
+How clean soe'er, that would not seem to have<br>
+Some mixture in itself, compar'd with this,<br>
+Transpicuous, clear; yet darkly on it roll'd,<br>
+Darkly beneath perpetual gloom, which ne'er<br>
+Admits or sun or moon light there to shine.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/28-22.jpg"><img alt="28-22th.jpg (30K)" src="images/28-22th.jpg" height="476" width="432"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>My feet advanc'd not; but my wond'ring eyes<br>
+Pass'd onward, o'er the streamlet, to survey<br>
+The tender May-bloom, flush'd through many a hue,<br>
+In prodigal variety: and there,<br>
+As object, rising suddenly to view,<br>
+That from our bosom every thought beside<br>
+With the rare marvel chases, I beheld<br>
+A lady all alone, who, singing, went,<br>
+And culling flower from flower, wherewith her way<br>
+Was all o'er painted. &nbsp;"Lady beautiful!<br>
+Thou, who (if looks, that use to speak the heart,<br>
+Are worthy of our trust), with love's own beam<br>
+Dost warm thee," thus to her my speech I fram'd:<br>
+"Ah! please thee hither towards the streamlet bend<br>
+Thy steps so near, that I may list thy song.<br>
+Beholding thee and this fair place, methinks,<br>
+I call to mind where wander'd and how look'd<br>
+Proserpine, in that season, when her child<br>
+The mother lost, and she the bloomy spring."<br>
+<br>As when a lady, turning in the dance,<br>
+Doth foot it featly, and advances scarce<br>
+One step before the other to the ground;<br>
+Over the yellow and vermilion flowers<br>
+Thus turn'd she at my suit, most maiden-like,<br>
+Valing her sober eyes, and came so near,<br>
+That I distinctly caught the dulcet sound.<br>
+Arriving where the limped waters now<br>
+Lav'd the green sward, her eyes she deign'd to raise,<br>
+That shot such splendour on me, as I ween<br>
+Ne'er glanced from Cytherea's, when her son<br>
+Had sped his keenest weapon to her heart.<br>
+Upon the opposite bank she stood and smil'd<br>
+through her graceful fingers shifted still<br>
+The intermingling dyes, which without seed<br>
+That lofty land unbosoms. &nbsp;By the stream<br>
+Three paces only were we sunder'd: yet<br>
+The Hellespont, where Xerxes pass'd it o'er,<br>
+(A curb for ever to the pride of man)<br>
+Was by Leander not more hateful held<br>
+For floating, with inhospitable wave<br>
+'Twixt Sestus and Abydos, than by me<br>
+That flood, because it gave no passage thence.<br>
+<br>"Strangers ye come, and haply in this place,<br>
+That cradled human nature in its birth,<br>
+Wond'ring, ye not without suspicion view<br>
+My smiles: but that sweet strain of psalmody,<br>
+'Thou, Lord! hast made me glad,' will give ye light,<br>
+Which may uncloud your minds. &nbsp;And thou, who stand'st<br>
+The foremost, and didst make thy suit to me,<br>
+Say if aught else thou wish to hear: for I<br>
+Came prompt to answer every doubt of thine."<br>
+<br>She spake; and I replied: "I know not how<br>
+To reconcile this wave and rustling sound<br>
+Of forest leaves, with what I late have heard<br>
+Of opposite report." &nbsp;She answering thus:<br>
+"I will unfold the cause, whence that proceeds,<br>
+Which makes thee wonder; and so purge the cloud<br>
+That hath enwraps thee. &nbsp;The First Good, whose joy<br>
+Is only in himself, created man<br>
+For happiness, and gave this goodly place,<br>
+His pledge and earnest of eternal peace.<br>
+Favour'd thus highly, through his own defect<br>
+He fell, and here made short sojourn; he fell,<br>
+And, for the bitterness of sorrow, chang'd<br>
+Laughter unblam'd and ever-new delight.<br>
+That vapours none, exhal'd from earth beneath,<br>
+Or from the waters (which, wherever heat<br>
+Attracts them, follow), might ascend thus far<br>
+To vex man's peaceful state, this mountain rose<br>
+So high toward the heav'n, nor fears the rage<br>
+Of elements contending, from that part<br>
+Exempted, where the gate his limit bars.<br>
+Because the circumambient air throughout<br>
+With its first impulse circles still, unless<br>
+Aught interpose to cheek or thwart its course;<br>
+Upon the summit, which on every side<br>
+To visitation of th' impassive air<br>
+Is open, doth that motion strike, and makes<br>
+Beneath its sway th' umbrageous wood resound:<br>
+And in the shaken plant such power resides,<br>
+That it impregnates with its efficacy<br>
+The voyaging breeze, upon whose subtle plume<br>
+That wafted flies abroad; and th' other land<br>
+Receiving (as 't is worthy in itself,<br>
+Or in the clime, that warms it), doth conceive,<br>
+And from its womb produces many a tree<br>
+Of various virtue. &nbsp;This when thou hast heard,<br>
+The marvel ceases, if in yonder earth<br>
+Some plant without apparent seed be found<br>
+To fix its fibrous stem. &nbsp;And further learn,<br>
+That with prolific foison of all seeds,<br>
+This holy plain is fill'd, and in itself<br>
+Bears fruit that ne'er was pluck'd on other soil.<br>
+&nbsp;The water, thou behold'st, springs not from vein,<br>
+As stream, that intermittently repairs<br>
+And spends his pulse of life, but issues forth<br>
+From fountain, solid, undecaying, sure;<br>
+And by the will omnific, full supply<br>
+Feeds whatsoe'er On either side it pours;<br>
+On this devolv'd with power to take away<br>
+Remembrance of offence, on that to bring<br>
+Remembrance back of every good deed done.<br>
+From whence its name of Lethe on this part;<br>
+On th' other Eunoe: both of which must first<br>
+Be tasted ere it work; the last exceeding<br>
+All flavours else. &nbsp;Albeit thy thirst may now<br>
+Be well contented, if I here break off,<br>
+No more revealing: yet a corollary<br>
+I freely give beside: nor deem my words<br>
+Less grateful to thee, if they somewhat pass<br>
+The stretch of promise. &nbsp;They, whose verse of yore<br>
+The golden age recorded and its bliss,<br>
+On the Parnassian mountain, of this place<br>
+Perhaps had dream'd. &nbsp;Here was man guiltless, here<br>
+Perpetual spring and every fruit, and this<br>
+The far-fam'd nectar." &nbsp;Turning to the bards,<br>
+When she had ceas'd, I noted in their looks<br>
+A smile at her conclusion; then my face<br>
+Again directed to the lovely dame.</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="29"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXIX</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Singing, as if enamour'd, she resum'd<br>
+And clos'd the song, with "Blessed they whose sins<br>
+Are cover'd." &nbsp;Like the wood-nymphs then, that tripp'd<br>
+Singly across the sylvan shadows, one<br>
+Eager to view and one to 'scape the sun,<br>
+So mov'd she on, against the current, up<br>
+The verdant rivage. &nbsp;I, her mincing step<br>
+Observing, with as tardy step pursued.<br>
+<br>Between us not an hundred paces trod,<br>
+The bank, on each side bending equally,<br>
+Gave me to face the orient. &nbsp;Nor our way<br>
+Far onward brought us, when to me at once<br>
+She turn'd, and cried: "My brother! look and hearken."<br>
+And lo! a sudden lustre ran across<br>
+Through the great forest on all parts, so bright<br>
+I doubted whether lightning were abroad;<br>
+But that expiring ever in the spleen,<br>
+That doth unfold it, and this during still<br>
+And waxing still in splendor, made me question<br>
+What it might be: and a sweet melody<br>
+Ran through the luminous air. &nbsp;Then did I chide<br>
+With warrantable zeal the hardihood<br>
+Of our first parent, for that there were earth<br>
+Stood in obedience to the heav'ns, she only,<br>
+Woman, the creature of an hour, endur'd not<br>
+Restraint of any veil: which had she borne<br>
+Devoutly, joys, ineffable as these,<br>
+Had from the first, and long time since, been mine.<br>
+<br>While through that wilderness of primy sweets<br>
+That never fade, suspense I walk'd, and yet<br>
+Expectant of beatitude more high,<br>
+Before us, like a blazing fire, the air<br>
+Under the green boughs glow'd; and, for a song,<br>
+Distinct the sound of melody was heard.<br>
+<br>O ye thrice holy virgins! for your sakes<br>
+If e'er I suffer'd hunger, cold and watching,<br>
+Occasion calls on me to crave your bounty.<br>
+Now through my breast let Helicon his stream<br>
+Pour copious; and Urania with her choir<br>
+Arise to aid me: while the verse unfolds<br>
+Things that do almost mock the grasp of thought.<br>
+<br>Onward a space, what seem'd seven trees of gold,<br>
+The intervening distance to mine eye<br>
+Falsely presented; but when I was come<br>
+So near them, that no lineament was lost<br>
+Of those, with which a doubtful object, seen<br>
+Remotely, plays on the misdeeming sense,<br>
+Then did the faculty, that ministers<br>
+Discourse to reason, these for tapers of gold<br>
+Distinguish, and it th' singing trace the sound<br>
+"Hosanna." &nbsp;Above, their beauteous garniture<br>
+Flam'd with more ample lustre, than the moon<br>
+Through cloudless sky at midnight in her full.<br>
+<br>I turn'd me full of wonder to my guide;<br>
+And he did answer with a countenance<br>
+Charg'd with no less amazement: whence my view<br>
+Reverted to those lofty things, which came<br>
+So slowly moving towards us, that the bride<br>
+Would have outstript them on her bridal day.<br>
+<br>The lady called aloud: "Why thus yet burns<br>
+Affection in thee for these living, lights,<br>
+And dost not look on that which follows them?"<br>
+<br>I straightway mark'd a tribe behind them walk,<br>
+As if attendant on their leaders, cloth'd<br>
+With raiment of such whiteness, as on earth<br>
+Was never. &nbsp;On my left, the wat'ry gleam<br>
+Borrow'd, and gave me back, when there I look'd.<br>
+As in a mirror, my left side portray'd.<br>
+<br>When I had chosen on the river's edge<br>
+Such station, that the distance of the stream<br>
+Alone did separate me; there I stay'd<br>
+My steps for clearer prospect, and beheld<br>
+The flames go onward, leaving, as they went,<br>
+The air behind them painted as with trail<br>
+Of liveliest pencils! so distinct were mark'd<br>
+All those sev'n listed colours, whence the sun<br>
+Maketh his bow, and Cynthia her zone.<br>
+These streaming gonfalons did flow beyond<br>
+My vision; and ten paces, as I guess,<br>
+Parted the outermost. &nbsp;Beneath a sky<br>
+So beautiful, came foul and-twenty elders,<br>
+By two and two, with flower-de-luces crown'd.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/29-80.jpg"><img alt="29-80th.jpg (36K)" src="images/29-80th.jpg" height="472" width="435"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+All sang one song: "Blessed be thou among<br>
+The daughters of Adam! and thy loveliness<br>
+Blessed for ever!" &nbsp;After that the flowers,<br>
+And the fresh herblets, on the opposite brink,<br>
+Were free from that elected race; as light<br>
+In heav'n doth second light, came after them<br>
+Four animals, each crown'd with verdurous leaf.<br>
+With six wings each was plum'd, the plumage full<br>
+Of eyes, and th' eyes of Argus would be such,<br>
+Were they endued with life. &nbsp;Reader, more rhymes<br>
+Will not waste in shadowing forth their form:<br>
+For other need no straitens, that in this<br>
+I may not give my bounty room. &nbsp;But read<br>
+Ezekiel; for he paints them, from the north<br>
+How he beheld them come by Chebar's flood,<br>
+In whirlwind, cloud and fire; and even such<br>
+As thou shalt find them character'd by him,<br>
+Here were they; save as to the pennons; there,<br>
+From him departing, John accords with me.<br>
+<br>The space, surrounded by the four, enclos'd<br>
+A car triumphal: on two wheels it came<br>
+Drawn at a Gryphon's neck; and he above<br>
+Stretch'd either wing uplifted, 'tween the midst<br>
+And the three listed hues, on each side three;<br>
+So that the wings did cleave or injure none;<br>
+And out of sight they rose. &nbsp;The members, far<br>
+As he was bird, were golden; white the rest<br>
+With vermeil intervein'd. &nbsp;So beautiful<br>
+A car in Rome ne'er grac'd Augustus pomp,<br>
+Or Africanus': e'en the sun's itself<br>
+Were poor to this, that chariot of the sun<br>
+Erroneous, which in blazing ruin fell<br>
+At Tellus' pray'r devout, by the just doom<br>
+Mysterious of all-seeing Jove. &nbsp;Three nymphs<br>
+at the right wheel, came circling in smooth dance;<br>
+The one so ruddy, that her form had scarce<br>
+Been known within a furnace of clear flame:<br>
+The next did look, as if the flesh and bones<br>
+Were emerald: snow new-fallen seem'd the third.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/29-118.jpg"><img alt="29-118th.jpg (39K)" src="images/29-118th.jpg" height="475" width="417"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+Now seem'd the white to lead, the ruddy now;<br>
+And from her song who led, the others took<br>
+Their treasure, swift or slow. &nbsp;At th' other wheel,<br>
+A band quaternion, each in purple clad,<br>
+Advanc'd with festal step, as of them one<br>
+The rest conducted, one, upon whose front<br>
+Three eyes were seen. &nbsp;In rear of all this group,<br>
+Two old men I beheld, dissimilar<br>
+In raiment, but in port and gesture like,<br>
+Solid and mainly grave; of whom the one<br>
+Did show himself some favour'd counsellor<br>
+Of the great Coan, him, whom nature made<br>
+To serve the costliest creature of her tribe.<br>
+His fellow mark'd an opposite intent,<br>
+Bearing a sword, whose glitterance and keen edge,<br>
+E'en as I view'd it with the flood between,<br>
+Appall'd me. &nbsp;Next four others I beheld,<br>
+Of humble seeming: and, behind them all,<br>
+One single old man, sleeping, as he came,<br>
+With a shrewd visage. &nbsp;And these seven, each<br>
+Like the first troop were habited, but wore<br>
+No braid of lilies on their temples wreath'd.<br>
+Rather with roses and each vermeil flower,<br>
+A sight, but little distant, might have sworn,<br>
+That they were all on fire above their brow.<br>
+<br>Whenas the car was o'er against me, straight.<br>
+Was heard a thund'ring, at whose voice it seem'd<br>
+The chosen multitude were stay'd; for there,<br>
+With the first ensigns, made they solemn halt.</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="30"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXX</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Soon as the polar light, which never knows<br>
+Setting nor rising, nor the shadowy veil<br>
+Of other cloud than sin, fair ornament<br>
+Of the first heav'n, to duty each one there<br>
+Safely convoying, as that lower doth<br>
+The steersman to his port, stood firmly fix'd;<br>
+Forthwith the saintly tribe, who in the van<br>
+Between the Gryphon and its radiance came,<br>
+Did turn them to the car, as to their rest:<br>
+And one, as if commission'd from above,<br>
+In holy chant thrice shorted forth aloud:<br>
+"Come, spouse, from Libanus!" and all the rest<br>
+Took up the song&mdash;At the last audit so<br>
+The blest shall rise, from forth his cavern each<br>
+Uplifting lightly his new-vested flesh,<br>
+As, on the sacred litter, at the voice<br>
+Authoritative of that elder, sprang<br>
+A hundred ministers and messengers<br>
+Of life eternal. &nbsp;"Blessed thou! who com'st!"<br>
+And, "O," they cried, "from full hands scatter ye<br>
+Unwith'ring lilies;" and, so saying, cast<br>
+Flowers over head and round them on all sides.<br>
+<br>I have beheld, ere now, at break of day,<br>
+The eastern clime all roseate, and the sky<br>
+Oppos'd, one deep and beautiful serene,<br>
+And the sun's face so shaded, and with mists<br>
+Attemper'd at lids rising, that the eye<br>
+Long while endur'd the sight: thus in a cloud<br>
+Of flowers, that from those hands angelic rose,<br>
+And down, within and outside of the car,<br>
+Fell showering, in white veil with olive wreath'd,<br>
+A virgin in my view appear'd, beneath<br>
+Green mantle, rob'd in hue of living flame:<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/30-32.jpg"><img alt="30-32th.jpg (34K)" src="images/30-32th.jpg" height="457" width="426"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+And o'er my Spirit, that in former days<br>
+Within her presence had abode so long,<br>
+No shudd'ring terror crept. &nbsp;Mine eyes no more<br>
+Had knowledge of her; yet there mov'd from her<br>
+A hidden virtue, at whose touch awak'd,<br>
+The power of ancient love was strong within me.<br>
+<br>No sooner on my vision streaming, smote<br>
+The heav'nly influence, which years past, and e'en<br>
+In childhood, thrill'd me, than towards Virgil I<br>
+Turn'd me to leftward, panting, like a babe,<br>
+That flees for refuge to his mother's breast,<br>
+If aught have terrified or work'd him woe:<br>
+And would have cried: "There is no dram of blood,<br>
+That doth not quiver in me. &nbsp;The old flame<br>
+Throws out clear tokens of reviving fire:"<br>
+But Virgil had bereav'd us of himself,<br>
+Virgil, my best-lov'd father; Virgil, he<br>
+To whom I gave me up for safety: nor,<br>
+All, our prime mother lost, avail'd to save<br>
+My undew'd cheeks from blur of soiling tears.<br>
+<br>"Dante, weep not, that Virgil leaves thee: nay,<br>
+Weep thou not yet: behooves thee feel the edge<br>
+Of other sword, and thou shalt weep for that."<br>
+<br>As to the prow or stern, some admiral<br>
+Paces the deck, inspiriting his crew,<br>
+When 'mid the sail-yards all hands ply aloof;<br>
+Thus on the left side of the car I saw,<br>
+(Turning me at the sound of mine own name,<br>
+Which here I am compell'd to register)<br>
+The virgin station'd, who before appeared<br>
+Veil'd in that festive shower angelical.<br>
+<br>Towards me, across the stream, she bent her eyes;<br>
+Though from her brow the veil descending, bound<br>
+With foliage of Minerva, suffer'd not<br>
+That I beheld her clearly; then with act<br>
+Full royal, still insulting o'er her thrall,<br>
+Added, as one, who speaking keepeth back<br>
+The bitterest saying, to conclude the speech:<br>
+"Observe me well. &nbsp;I am, in sooth, I am<br>
+Beatrice. &nbsp;What! and hast thou deign'd at last<br>
+Approach the mountain? &nbsp;knewest not, O man!<br>
+Thy happiness is whole?" &nbsp;Down fell mine eyes<br>
+On the clear fount, but there, myself espying,<br>
+Recoil'd, and sought the greensward: such a weight<br>
+Of shame was on my forehead. &nbsp;With a mien<br>
+Of that stern majesty, which doth surround<br>
+mother's presence to her awe-struck child,<br>
+She look'd; a flavour of such bitterness<br>
+Was mingled in her pity. &nbsp;There her words<br>
+Brake off, and suddenly the angels sang:<br>
+"In thee, O gracious Lord, my hope hath been:"<br>
+But went no farther than, "Thou Lord, hast set<br>
+My feet in ample room." &nbsp;As snow, that lies<br>
+Amidst the living rafters on the back<br>
+Of Italy congeal'd when drifted high<br>
+And closely pil'd by rough Sclavonian blasts,<br>
+Breathe but the land whereon no shadow falls,<br>
+And straightway melting it distils away,<br>
+Like a fire-wasted taper: thus was I,<br>
+Without a sigh or tear, or ever these<br>
+Did sing, that with the chiming of heav'n's sphere,<br>
+Still in their warbling chime: but when the strain<br>
+Of dulcet symphony, express'd for me<br>
+Their soft compassion, more than could the words<br>
+"Virgin, why so consum'st him?" &nbsp;then the ice,<br>
+Congeal'd about my bosom, turn'd itself<br>
+To spirit and water, and with anguish forth<br>
+Gush'd through the lips and eyelids from the heart.<br>
+<br>Upon the chariot's right edge still she stood,<br>
+Immovable, and thus address'd her words<br>
+To those bright semblances with pity touch'd:<br>
+"Ye in th' eternal day your vigils keep,<br>
+So that nor night nor slumber, with close stealth,<br>
+Conveys from you a single step in all<br>
+The goings on of life: thence with more heed<br>
+I shape mine answer, for his ear intended,<br>
+Who there stands weeping, that the sorrow now<br>
+May equal the transgression. &nbsp;Not alone<br>
+Through operation of the mighty orbs,<br>
+That mark each seed to some predestin'd aim,<br>
+As with aspect or fortunate or ill<br>
+The constellations meet, but through benign<br>
+Largess of heav'nly graces, which rain down<br>
+From such a height, as mocks our vision, this man<br>
+Was in the freshness of his being, such,<br>
+So gifted virtually, that in him<br>
+All better habits wond'rously had thriv'd.<br>
+The more of kindly strength is in the soil,<br>
+So much doth evil seed and lack of culture<br>
+Mar it the more, and make it run to wildness.<br>
+These looks sometime upheld him; for I show'd<br>
+My youthful eyes, and led him by their light<br>
+In upright walking. &nbsp;Soon as I had reach'd<br>
+The threshold of my second age, and chang'd<br>
+My mortal for immortal, then he left me,<br>
+And gave himself to others. &nbsp;When from flesh<br>
+To spirit I had risen, and increase<br>
+Of beauty and of virtue circled me,<br>
+I was less dear to him, and valued less.<br>
+His steps were turn'd into deceitful ways,<br>
+Following false images of good, that make<br>
+No promise perfect. &nbsp;Nor avail'd me aught<br>
+To sue for inspirations, with the which,<br>
+I, both in dreams of night, and otherwise,<br>
+Did call him back; of them so little reck'd him,<br>
+Such depth he fell, that all device was short<br>
+Of his preserving, save that he should view<br>
+The children of perdition. &nbsp;To this end<br>
+I visited the purlieus of the dead:<br>
+And one, who hath conducted him thus high,<br>
+Receiv'd my supplications urg'd with weeping.<br>
+It were a breaking of God's high decree,<br>
+If Lethe should be past, and such food tasted<br>
+Without the cost of some repentant tear."</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="31"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXXI</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>"O Thou!" &nbsp;her words she thus without delay<br>
+Resuming, turn'd their point on me, to whom<br>
+They but with lateral edge seem'd harsh before,<br>
+"Say thou, who stand'st beyond the holy stream,<br>
+If this be true. &nbsp;A charge so grievous needs<br>
+Thine own avowal." &nbsp;On my faculty<br>
+Such strange amazement hung, the voice expir'd<br>
+Imperfect, ere its organs gave it birth.<br>
+<br>A little space refraining, then she spake:<br>
+"What dost thou muse on? &nbsp;Answer me. &nbsp;The wave<br>
+On thy remembrances of evil yet<br>
+Hath done no injury." &nbsp;A mingled sense<br>
+Of fear and of confusion, from my lips<br>
+Did such a "Yea" produce, as needed help<br>
+Of vision to interpret. &nbsp;As when breaks<br>
+In act to be discharg'd, a cross-bow bent<br>
+Beyond its pitch, both nerve and bow o'erstretch'd,<br>
+The flagging weapon feebly hits the mark;<br>
+Thus, tears and sighs forth gushing, did I burst<br>
+Beneath the heavy load, and thus my voice<br>
+Was slacken'd on its way. &nbsp;She straight began:<br>
+"When my desire invited thee to love<br>
+The good, which sets a bound to our aspirings,<br>
+What bar of thwarting foss or linked chain<br>
+Did meet thee, that thou so should'st quit the hope<br>
+Of further progress, or what bait of ease<br>
+Or promise of allurement led thee on<br>
+Elsewhere, that thou elsewhere should'st rather wait?"<br>
+<br>A bitter sigh I drew, then scarce found voice<br>
+To answer, hardly to these sounds my lips<br>
+Gave utterance, wailing: "Thy fair looks withdrawn,<br>
+Things present, with deceitful pleasures, turn'd<br>
+My steps aside." &nbsp;She answering spake: "Hadst thou<br>
+Been silent, or denied what thou avow'st,<br>
+Thou hadst not hid thy sin the more: such eye<br>
+Observes it. &nbsp;But whene'er the sinner's cheek<br>
+Breaks forth into the precious-streaming tears<br>
+Of self-accusing, in our court the wheel<br>
+Of justice doth run counter to the edge.<br>
+Howe'er that thou may'st profit by thy shame<br>
+For errors past, and that henceforth more strength<br>
+May arm thee, when thou hear'st the Siren-voice,<br>
+Lay thou aside the motive to this grief,<br>
+And lend attentive ear, while I unfold<br>
+How opposite a way my buried flesh<br>
+Should have impell'd thee. &nbsp;Never didst thou spy<br>
+In art or nature aught so passing sweet,<br>
+As were the limbs, that in their beauteous frame<br>
+Enclos'd me, and are scatter'd now in dust.<br>
+If sweetest thing thus fail'd thee with my death,<br>
+What, afterward, of mortal should thy wish<br>
+Have tempted? &nbsp;When thou first hadst felt the dart<br>
+Of perishable things, in my departing<br>
+For better realms, thy wing thou should'st have prun'd<br>
+To follow me, and never stoop'd again<br>
+To 'bide a second blow for a slight girl,<br>
+Or other gaud as transient and as vain.<br>
+The new and inexperienc'd bird awaits,<br>
+Twice it may be, or thrice, the fowler's aim;<br>
+But in the sight of one, whose plumes are full,<br>
+In vain the net is spread, the arrow wing'd."<br>
+<br>I stood, as children silent and asham'd<br>
+Stand, list'ning, with their eyes upon the earth,<br>
+Acknowledging their fault and self-condemn'd.<br>
+And she resum'd: "If, but to hear thus pains thee,<br>
+Raise thou thy beard, and lo! what sight shall do!"<br>
+<br>With less reluctance yields a sturdy holm,<br>
+Rent from its fibers by a blast, that blows<br>
+From off the pole, or from Iarbas' land,<br>
+Than I at her behest my visage rais'd:<br>
+And thus the face denoting by the beard,<br>
+I mark'd the secret sting her words convey'd.<br>
+<br>No sooner lifted I mine aspect up,<br>
+Than downward sunk that vision I beheld<br>
+Of goodly creatures vanish; and mine eyes<br>
+Yet unassur'd and wavering, bent their light<br>
+On Beatrice. &nbsp;Towards the animal,<br>
+Who joins two natures in one form, she turn'd,<br>
+And, even under shadow of her veil,<br>
+And parted by the verdant rill, that flow'd<br>
+Between, in loveliness appear'd as much<br>
+Her former self surpassing, as on earth<br>
+All others she surpass'd. &nbsp;Remorseful goads<br>
+Shot sudden through me. &nbsp;Each thing else, the more<br>
+Its love had late beguil'd me, now the more<br>
+I Was loathsome. &nbsp;On my heart so keenly smote<br>
+The bitter consciousness, that on the ground<br>
+O'erpower'd I fell: and what my state was then,<br>
+She knows who was the cause. &nbsp;When now my strength<br>
+Flow'd back, returning outward from the heart,<br>
+The lady, whom alone I first had seen,<br>
+I found above me. &nbsp;"Loose me not," she cried:<br>
+"Loose not thy hold;" and lo! had dragg'd me high<br>
+As to my neck into the stream, while she,<br>
+Still as she drew me after, swept along,<br>
+Swift as a shuttle, bounding o'er the wave.<br>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/31-100.jpg"><img alt="31-100th.jpg (39K)" src="images/31-100th.jpg" height="474" width="427"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+
+<br>The blessed shore approaching then was heard<br>
+So sweetly, "Tu asperges me," that I<br>
+May not remember, much less tell the sound.<br>
+The beauteous dame, her arms expanding, clasp'd<br>
+My temples, and immerg'd me, where 't was fit<br>
+The wave should drench me: and thence raising up,<br>
+Within the fourfold dance of lovely nymphs<br>
+Presented me so lav'd, and with their arm<br>
+They each did cover me. &nbsp;"Here are we nymphs,<br>
+And in the heav'n are stars. &nbsp;Or ever earth<br>
+Was visited of Beatrice, we<br>
+Appointed for her handmaids, tended on her.<br>
+We to her eyes will lead thee; but the light<br>
+Of gladness that is in them, well to scan,<br>
+Those yonder three, of deeper ken than ours,<br>
+Thy sight shall quicken." &nbsp;Thus began their song;<br>
+And then they led me to the Gryphon's breast,<br>
+While, turn'd toward us, Beatrice stood.<br>
+"Spare not thy vision. &nbsp;We have stationed thee<br>
+Before the emeralds, whence love erewhile<br>
+Hath drawn his weapons on thee." &nbsp;As they spake,<br>
+A thousand fervent wishes riveted<br>
+Mine eyes upon her beaming eyes, that stood<br>
+Still fix'd toward the Gryphon motionless.<br>
+As the sun strikes a mirror, even thus<br>
+Within those orbs the twofold being, shone,<br>
+For ever varying, in one figure now<br>
+Reflected, now in other. &nbsp;Reader! muse<br>
+How wond'rous in my sight it seem'd to mark<br>
+A thing, albeit steadfast in itself,<br>
+Yet in its imag'd semblance mutable.<br>
+<br>Full of amaze, and joyous, while my soul<br>
+Fed on the viand, whereof still desire<br>
+Grows with satiety, the other three<br>
+With gesture, that declar'd a loftier line,<br>
+Advanc'd: to their own carol on they came<br>
+Dancing in festive ring angelical.<br>
+<br>"Turn, Beatrice!" was their song: "O turn<br>
+Thy saintly sight on this thy faithful one,<br>
+Who to behold thee many a wearisome pace<br>
+Hath measur'd. &nbsp;Gracious at our pray'r vouchsafe<br>
+Unveil to him thy cheeks: that he may mark<br>
+Thy second beauty, now conceal'd." &nbsp;O splendour!<br>
+O sacred light eternal! who is he<br>
+So pale with musing in Pierian shades,<br>
+Or with that fount so lavishly imbued,<br>
+Whose spirit should not fail him in th' essay<br>
+To represent thee such as thou didst seem,<br>
+When under cope of the still-chiming heaven<br>
+Thou gav'st to open air thy charms reveal'd.</p>
+
+<br><br>
+<a name="32"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXXII</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>Mine eyes with such an eager coveting,<br>
+Were bent to rid them of their ten years' thirst,<br>
+No other sense was waking: and e'en they<br>
+Were fenc'd on either side from heed of aught;<br>
+So tangled in its custom'd toils that smile<br>
+Of saintly brightness drew me to itself,<br>
+When forcibly toward the left my sight<br>
+The sacred virgins turn'd; for from their lips<br>
+I heard the warning sounds: "Too fix'd a gaze!"<br>
+<br>Awhile my vision labor'd; as when late<br>
+Upon the' o'erstrained eyes the sun hath smote:<br>
+But soon to lesser object, as the view<br>
+Was now recover'd (lesser in respect<br>
+To that excess of sensible, whence late<br>
+I had perforce been sunder'd) on their right<br>
+I mark'd that glorious army wheel, and turn,<br>
+Against the sun and sev'nfold lights, their front.<br>
+As when, their bucklers for protection rais'd,<br>
+A well-rang'd troop, with portly banners curl'd,<br>
+Wheel circling, ere the whole can change their ground:<br>
+E'en thus the goodly regiment of heav'n<br>
+Proceeding, all did pass us, ere the car<br>
+Had slop'd his beam. &nbsp;Attendant at the wheels<br>
+The damsels turn'd; and on the Gryphon mov'd<br>
+The sacred burden, with a pace so smooth,<br>
+No feather on him trembled. &nbsp;The fair dame<br>
+Who through the wave had drawn me, companied<br>
+By Statius and myself, pursued the wheel,<br>
+Whose orbit, rolling, mark'd a lesser arch.<br>
+<br>Through the high wood, now void (the more her blame,<br>
+Who by the serpent was beguil'd) I past<br>
+With step in cadence to the harmony<br>
+Angelic. &nbsp;Onward had we mov'd, as far<br>
+Perchance as arrow at three several flights<br>
+Full wing'd had sped, when from her station down<br>
+Descended Beatrice. &nbsp;With one voice<br>
+All murmur'd &nbsp;"Adam," circling next a plant<br>
+Despoil'd of flowers and leaf on every bough.<br>
+Its tresses, spreading more as more they rose,<br>
+Were such, as 'midst their forest wilds for height<br>
+The Indians might have gaz'd at. &nbsp;"Blessed thou!<br>
+Gryphon, whose beak hath never pluck'd that tree<br>
+Pleasant to taste: for hence the appetite<br>
+Was warp'd to evil." &nbsp;Round the stately trunk<br>
+Thus shouted forth the rest, to whom return'd<br>
+The animal twice-gender'd: "Yea: for so<br>
+The generation of the just are sav'd."<br>
+And turning to the chariot-pole, to foot<br>
+He drew it of the widow'd branch, and bound<br>
+There left unto the stock whereon it grew.<br>
+<br>As when large floods of radiance from above<br>
+Stream, with that radiance mingled, which ascends<br>
+Next after setting of the scaly sign,<br>
+Our plants then burgeon, and each wears anew<br>
+His wonted colours, ere the sun have yok'd<br>
+Beneath another star his flamy steeds;<br>
+Thus putting forth a hue, more faint than rose,<br>
+And deeper than the violet, was renew'd<br>
+The plant, erewhile in all its branches bare.<br>
+<br>Unearthly was the hymn, which then arose.<br>
+I understood it not, nor to the end<br>
+Endur'd the harmony. &nbsp;Had I the skill<br>
+To pencil forth, how clos'd th' unpitying eyes<br>
+Slumb'ring, when Syrinx warbled, (eyes that paid<br>
+So dearly for their watching,) then like painter,<br>
+That with a model paints, I might design<br>
+The manner of my falling into sleep.<br>
+But feign who will the slumber cunningly;<br>
+I pass it by to when I wak'd, and tell<br>
+How suddenly a flash of splendour rent<br>
+The curtain of my sleep, and one cries out:<br>
+"Arise, what dost thou?" &nbsp;As the chosen three,<br>
+On Tabor's mount, admitted to behold<br>
+The blossoming of that fair tree, whose fruit<br>
+Is coveted of angels, and doth make<br>
+Perpetual feast in heaven, to themselves<br>
+Returning at the word, whence deeper sleeps<br>
+Were broken, that they their tribe diminish'd saw,<br>
+Both Moses and Elias gone, and chang'd<br>
+The stole their master wore: thus to myself<br>
+Returning, over me beheld I stand<br>
+The piteous one, who cross the stream had brought<br>
+My steps. &nbsp;"And where," all doubting, I exclaim'd,<br>
+"Is Beatrice?"&mdash;"See her," she replied,<br>
+"Beneath the fresh leaf seated on its root.<br>
+Behold th' associate choir that circles her.<br>
+The others, with a melody more sweet<br>
+And more profound, journeying to higher realms,<br>
+Upon the Gryphon tend." &nbsp;If there her words<br>
+Were clos'd, I know not; but mine eyes had now<br>
+Ta'en view of her, by whom all other thoughts<br>
+Were barr'd admittance. &nbsp;On the very ground<br>
+Alone she sat, as she had there been left<br>
+A guard upon the wain, which I beheld<br>
+Bound to the twyform beast. &nbsp;The seven nymphs<br>
+Did make themselves a cloister round about her,<br>
+And in their hands upheld those lights secure<br>
+From blast septentrion and the gusty south.<br>
+<br>"A little while thou shalt be forester here:<br>
+And citizen shalt be forever with me,<br>
+Of that true Rome, wherein Christ dwells a Roman<br>
+To profit the misguided world, keep now<br>
+Thine eyes upon the car; and what thou seest,<br>
+Take heed thou write, returning to that place."<br>
+<br>Thus Beatrice: at whose feet inclin'd<br>
+Devout, at her behest, my thought and eyes,<br>
+I, as she bade, directed. &nbsp;Never fire,<br>
+With so swift motion, forth a stormy cloud<br>
+Leap'd downward from the welkin's farthest bound,<br>
+As I beheld the bird of Jove descending<br>
+Pounce on the tree, and, as he rush'd, the rind,<br>
+Disparting crush beneath him, buds much more<br>
+And leaflets. &nbsp;On the car with all his might<br>
+He struck, whence, staggering like a ship, it reel'd,<br>
+At random driv'n, to starboard now, o'ercome,<br>
+And now to larboard, by the vaulting waves.<br>
+<br>Next springing up into the chariot's womb<br>
+A fox I saw, with hunger seeming pin'd<br>
+Of all good food. &nbsp;But, for his ugly sins<br>
+The saintly maid rebuking him, away<br>
+Scamp'ring he turn'd, fast as his hide-bound corpse<br>
+Would bear him. &nbsp;Next, from whence before he came,<br>
+I saw the eagle dart into the hull<br>
+O' th' car, and leave it with his feathers lin'd;<br>
+And then a voice, like that which issues forth<br>
+From heart with sorrow riv'd, did issue forth<br>
+From heav'n, and, "O poor bark of mine!" it cried,<br>
+"How badly art thou freighted!" &nbsp;Then, it seem'd,<br>
+That the earth open'd between either wheel,<br>
+And I beheld a dragon issue thence,<br>
+That through the chariot fix'd his forked train;<br>
+And like a wasp that draggeth back the sting,<br>
+So drawing forth his baleful train, he dragg'd<br>
+Part of the bottom forth, and went his way<br>
+Exulting. &nbsp;What remain'd, as lively turf<br>
+With green herb, so did clothe itself with plumes,<br>
+Which haply had with purpose chaste and kind<br>
+Been offer'd; and therewith were cloth'd the wheels,<br>
+Both one and other, and the beam, so quickly<br>
+A sigh were not breath'd sooner. &nbsp;Thus transform'd,<br>
+The holy structure, through its several parts,<br>
+Did put forth heads, three on the beam, and one<br>
+On every side; the first like oxen horn'd,<br>
+But with a single horn upon their front<br>
+The four. &nbsp;Like monster sight hath never seen.<br>
+O'er it methought there sat, secure as rock<br>
+On mountain's lofty top, a shameless whore,<br>
+Whose ken rov'd loosely round her. &nbsp;At her side,<br>
+As 't were that none might bear her off, I saw<br>
+A giant stand; and ever, and anon<br>
+They mingled kisses. &nbsp;But, her lustful eyes<br>
+Chancing on me to wander, that fell minion<br>
+Scourg'd her from head to foot all o'er; then full<br>
+Of jealousy, and fierce with rage, unloos'd<br>
+The monster, and dragg'd on, so far across<br>
+The forest, that from me its shades alone<br>
+Shielded the harlot and the new-form'd brute.</p>
+
+
+<br><br><br><br>
+<a href="images/32-148.jpg"><img alt="32-148th.jpg (47K)" src="images/32-148th.jpg" height="458" width="429"></a>
+<br><br><br><br>
+
+<a name="33"></a>
+<br><br>
+<h2>CANTO XXXIII</h2>
+<br>
+
+<p>"The heathen, Lord! are come!" responsive thus,<br>
+The trinal now, and now the virgin band<br>
+Quaternion, their sweet psalmody began,<br>
+Weeping; and Beatrice listen'd, sad<br>
+And sighing, to the song', in such a mood,<br>
+That Mary, as she stood beside the cross,<br>
+Was scarce more chang'd. &nbsp;But when they gave her place<br>
+To speak, then, risen upright on her feet,<br>
+She, with a colour glowing bright as fire,<br>
+Did answer: "Yet a little while, and ye<br>
+Shall see me not; and, my beloved sisters,<br>
+Again a little while, and ye shall see me."<br>
+<br>Before her then she marshall'd all the seven,<br>
+And, beck'ning only motion'd me, the dame,<br>
+And that remaining sage, to follow her.<br>
+<br>So on she pass'd; and had not set, I ween,<br>
+Her tenth step to the ground, when with mine eyes<br>
+Her eyes encounter'd; and, with visage mild,<br>
+"So mend thy pace," she cried, "that if my words<br>
+Address thee, thou mayst still be aptly plac'd<br>
+To hear them." &nbsp;Soon as duly to her side<br>
+I now had hasten'd: "Brother!" she began,<br>
+"Why mak'st thou no attempt at questioning,<br>
+As thus we walk together?" &nbsp;Like to those<br>
+Who, speaking with too reverent an awe<br>
+Before their betters, draw not forth the voice<br>
+Alive unto their lips, befell me shell<br>
+That I in sounds imperfect thus began:<br>
+"Lady! what I have need of, that thou know'st,<br>
+And what will suit my need." &nbsp;She answering thus:<br>
+"Of fearfulness and shame, I will, that thou<br>
+Henceforth do rid thee: that thou speak no more,<br>
+As one who dreams. &nbsp;Thus far be taught of me:<br>
+The vessel, which thou saw'st the serpent break,<br>
+Was and is not: let him, who hath the blame,<br>
+Hope not to scare God's vengeance with a sop.<br>
+Without an heir for ever shall not be<br>
+That eagle, he, who left the chariot plum'd,<br>
+Which monster made it first and next a prey.<br>
+Plainly I view, and therefore speak, the stars<br>
+E'en now approaching, whose conjunction, free<br>
+From all impediment and bar, brings on<br>
+A season, in the which, one sent from God,<br>
+(Five hundred, five, and ten, do mark him out)<br>
+That foul one, and th' accomplice of her guilt,<br>
+The giant, both shall slay. &nbsp;And if perchance<br>
+My saying, dark as Themis or as Sphinx,<br>
+Fail to persuade thee, (since like them it foils<br>
+The intellect with blindness) yet ere long<br>
+Events shall be the Naiads, that will solve<br>
+This knotty riddle, and no damage light<br>
+On flock or field. &nbsp;Take heed; and as these words<br>
+By me are utter'd, teach them even so<br>
+To those who live that life, which is a race<br>
+To death: and when thou writ'st them, keep in mind<br>
+Not to conceal how thou hast seen the plant,<br>
+That twice hath now been spoil'd. &nbsp;This whoso robs,<br>
+This whoso plucks, with blasphemy of deed<br>
+Sins against God, who for his use alone<br>
+Creating hallow'd it. &nbsp;For taste of this,<br>
+In pain and in desire, five thousand years<br>
+And upward, the first soul did yearn for him,<br>
+Who punish'd in himself the fatal gust.<br>
+<br>"Thy reason slumbers, if it deem this height<br>
+And summit thus inverted of the plant,<br>
+Without due cause: and were not vainer thoughts,<br>
+As Elsa's numbing waters, to thy soul,<br>
+And their fond pleasures had not dyed it dark<br>
+As Pyramus the mulberry, thou hadst seen,<br>
+In such momentous circumstance alone,<br>
+God's equal justice morally implied<br>
+In the forbidden tree. &nbsp;But since I mark thee<br>
+In understanding harden'd into stone,<br>
+And, to that hardness, spotted too and stain'd,<br>
+So that thine eye is dazzled at my word,<br>
+I will, that, if not written, yet at least<br>
+Painted thou take it in thee, for the cause,<br>
+That one brings home his staff inwreath'd with palm.<br>
+<br>I thus: "As wax by seal, that changeth not<br>
+Its impress, now is stamp'd my brain by thee.<br>
+But wherefore soars thy wish'd-for speech so high<br>
+Beyond my sight, that loses it the more,<br>
+The more it strains to reach it?"&mdash;"To the end<br>
+That thou mayst know," she answer'd straight, "the school,<br>
+That thou hast follow'd; and how far behind,<br>
+When following my discourse, its learning halts:<br>
+And mayst behold your art, from the divine<br>
+As distant, as the disagreement is<br>
+'Twixt earth and heaven's most high and rapturous orb."<br>
+<br>"I not remember," I replied, "that e'er<br>
+I was estrang'd from thee, nor for such fault<br>
+Doth conscience chide me." &nbsp;Smiling she return'd:<br>
+"If thou canst, not remember, call to mind<br>
+How lately thou hast drunk of Lethe's wave;<br>
+And, sure as smoke doth indicate a flame,<br>
+In that forgetfulness itself conclude<br>
+Blame from thy alienated will incurr'd.<br>
+From henceforth verily my words shall be<br>
+As naked as will suit them to appear<br>
+In thy unpractis'd view." &nbsp;More sparkling now,<br>
+And with retarded course the sun possess'd<br>
+The circle of mid-day, that varies still<br>
+As th' aspect varies of each several clime,<br>
+When, as one, sent in vaward of a troop<br>
+For escort, pauses, if perchance he spy<br>
+Vestige of somewhat strange and rare: so paus'd<br>
+The sev'nfold band, arriving at the verge<br>
+Of a dun umbrage hoar, such as is seen,<br>
+Beneath green leaves and gloomy branches, oft<br>
+To overbrow a bleak and alpine cliff.<br>
+And, where they stood, before them, as it seem'd,<br>
+Tigris and Euphrates both beheld,<br>
+Forth from one fountain issue; and, like friends,<br>
+Linger at parting. "O enlight'ning beam!<br>
+O glory of our kind! beseech thee say<br>
+What water this, which from one source deriv'd<br>
+Itself removes to distance from itself?"<br>
+<br>To such entreaty answer thus was made:<br>
+"Entreat Matilda, that she teach thee this."<br>
+<br>And here, as one, who clears himself of blame<br>
+Imputed, the fair dame return'd: "Of me<br>
+He this and more hath learnt; and I am safe<br>
+That Lethe's water hath not hid it from him."<br>
+<br>And Beatrice: "Some more pressing care<br>
+That oft the memory 'reeves, perchance hath made<br>
+His mind's eye dark. &nbsp;But lo! where Eunoe cows!<br>
+Lead thither; and, as thou art wont, revive<br>
+His fainting virtue." &nbsp;As a courteous spirit,<br>
+That proffers no excuses, but as soon<br>
+As he hath token of another's will,<br>
+Makes it his own; when she had ta'en me, thus<br>
+The lovely maiden mov'd her on, and call'd<br>
+To Statius with an air most lady-like:<br>
+"Come thou with him." &nbsp;Were further space allow'd,<br>
+Then, Reader, might I sing, though but in part,<br>
+That beverage, with whose sweetness I had ne'er<br>
+Been sated. &nbsp;But, since all the leaves are full,<br>
+Appointed for this second strain, mine art<br>
+With warning bridle checks me. &nbsp;I return'd<br>
+From the most holy wave, regenerate,<br>
+If 'en as new plants renew'd with foliage new,<br>
+Pure and made apt for mounting to the stars.</p>
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