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
Which being untasted ne'er is comprehended,
Grateful 't will be to me, if thou content me
Both with thy name and with your destiny."
Whereat she promptly and with laughing eyes:
"Our charity doth never shut the doors
Against a just desire, except as she

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,
Rejoice at being of his order formed;
And this allotment, which appears so low,
Therefore is given us, because our vows
Have been neglected and in some part void."

Line 44. Against a just desire, except as one

55

Dante and Beatrice meet Piccarda and the Empress

Constance in the Heaven of the Moon