XV.
Whether it be the native operation
Of certain stones, to shine like torch i’ the dark,
Or whether force of spell or fumigation,
(A guess that seems to come more near the mark)
Or sign made under mystic constellation,
The blaze that came from the sepulchral ark
Discovered sculpture, colour, gems, and gilding,
And whatsoever else adorned the building.
XVI.
Scarcely had Bradamant above the sill
Lifted her foot, and trod the secret cave,
When the live spirit, in clear tones that thrill,
Addressed the martial virgin from the grave;
“May Fortune, chaste and noble maid, fulfil
“Thine every wish!” exclaimed the wizard brave,
“Since from thy womb a princely race shall spring,
“Whose name through Italy and earth shall ring.
XVII.
“The noble blood derived from ancient Troy[2],
“Mingling in thee its two most glorious streams,
“Shall be the ornament, and flower, and joy,
“Of every lineage on which Phœbus beams,
“Where genial stars lend warmth, or cold annoy,
“Where Indus, Tagus, Nile, or Danube gleams;
“And in thy progeny and long drawn line
“Shall marquises, counts, dukes, and Cæsars shine.
