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THE TWO CITIES.
Twelve in number are its gateways, numbered by the Seer of old;
Every gate a pearl most lustrous, and its streets axe paved with gold.
Every gate a pearl most lustrous, and its streets axe paved with gold.
In the midst in dazzling whiteness lightens the Eternal Throne;
From it flows the Living water; round it gleams an emerald zone.
From it flows the Living water; round it gleams an emerald zone.
Luscious fruits and balmy odors, healing leaves and cooling shade,
Either side the Life-tree sheddeth by sweet storms of music swayed.
Either side the Life-tree sheddeth by sweet storms of music swayed.
O thou grand untempled City seen by John in visions bright,
Glory-flooded, needing neither sun by day nor moon by night;
Glory-flooded, needing neither sun by day nor moon by night;
Filled forever and forever by the shining light of Him
Who redeemed the world and sitteth throned between the Seraphim!
Who redeemed the world and sitteth throned between the Seraphim!
Through thy lovely gates the nations of the saved in triumph stream,
Chanting praise above all praises, love of love their holy theme.
Chanting praise above all praises, love of love their holy theme.
