Since on the truth it trusts not yet its foot, But turns thee, as 't is wont, on emptiness. True substances are these which thou beholdest, Here relegate for breaking of some vow. Therefore speak with them, listen and believe; For the true light, which giveth peace to them, Permits them not to turn from it their feet." And I unto the shade that seemed most wishful To speak directed me, and I began, As one whom too great eagerness bewilders : "O well-created spirit, who in the rays Of life eternal dost the sweetness taste Who wills that all her court be like herself. I was a virgin sister in the world; And if thy mind doth contemplate me well, 30 35 40 45 The being more fair will not conceal me from thee, But thou shalt recognize I am Piccarda, Who, stationed here among these other blessed, 50 Myself am blessed in the slowest sphere. All our affections, that alone inflamed Are in the pleasure of the Holy Ghost, Line 44. Against a just desire, except as one 55 |