Sonnets
SONNET XXXV
TO GUIDO ORLANDO
He explains the miracles of the Madonna of Or San Michele,
by telling whose image it is.
My Lady’s face it is they worship there,
At San Michele in Orto, Guido mine,
Near her fair semblance that is clear and holy,
Sinners take refuge and get consolation.
Whoso before her kneeleth reverently
No longer wasteth but is comforted;
The sick are healed and devils driven forth,
And those with crooked eyes see straightway straight.
Great ills she cureth in an open place,
With reverence the folk all kneel unto her,
And two lamps shed the glow about her form.
Her voice is borne out through far-lying ways
’Till brothers minor cry: “Idolatry,”
For envy of her precious neighbourhood.
85
