XXI.

Met in a point the circles twain Of temporal and eternal things Embrace, close linked. Redemption's chain Drops thence to earth its myriad rings.

In either circle, from of old, That point of meeting stood decreed;— Twin mysteries cast in one deep mould, "The Woman," and "the Woman's Seed."

Mary, long ages ere thy birth Resplendent with Salvation's Sign, In thee a stainless hand the earth Put forth, to meet the Hand Divine!

First trophy of all-conquering Grace, First victory of that Blood all pure, Of man's once fair but fallen race Thou stood'st, the monument secure.

The Word made Flesh! the Way! the Door! The link that dust with Godhead blends! Through Him the worlds their God adore:— Through thee that God to man descends.