XXI.
This done, into the church she called the maid,
Where she had drawn a magic ring, as wide
As might contain the damsel, prostrate laid;
With the full measure of a palm beside.
And on her head, lest spirit should invade,
A pentacle for more assurance tied[3].
So bade her hold her peace, and stand and look,
Then read, and schooled the demons from her book.
XXII.
Lo! forth of that first cave what countless swarm
Presses upon the circle’s sacred round,
But, when they would the magic rampart storm,
Finds the way barred as if by fosse or mound;
Then back the rabble turns of various form;
And when it thrice with bending march has wound
About the circle, troops into the cave,
Where stands that beauteous urn, the wizard’s grave.
XXIII.
“To tell at large the puissant acts and worth,
“And name of each who, figured in a sprite,
“Is present to our eyes before his birth,”
Said sage Melissa to the damsel bright;
“To tell the deeds which they shall act on earth,
“Were labour not to finish with the night.
“Hence I shall call few worthies of thy line,
“As time and fair occasion shall combine.
