the son of Amram witnesseth of thy bosom that it is above all. That rod bare almonds without being planted, and in like manner in thy bosom, O Mary, a Man was brought forth. Blessed art thou, since Isaiah praised thee, calling thee a Virgin, and thy Son, God. Blessed art thou, O fleece which was seen by Gideon, and through which fleece he learnt thy mystery. The dew which descended thereon descended upon no other place, and the rain which fell on every place did not let fall even a drop upon her. Blessed art thou, O city placed on high, and O dwelling-place for the Son of the Highest. Blessed art thou, O heaven, which art of the earth, and which the waters that are above the heavens envied. Blessed art thou, O bodily throne, which wast envied by the throne of light, and on which exalted throne the Invisible One was hid for a long time without appearing unto men. Blessed art thou, since through thee salvation from destruction has come to Adam and to his children. Blessed art thou, since through thee the curses against women have been removed. Blessed art thou, since through thee women cursed of old are blessed. Blessed art thou, O Virgin, who didst attain old age without losing thy virginity. Blessed art thou, O Child-bearing Virgin, who didst bring forth without being unloosed or corrupted. Blessed art thou, O Mother, whose Son is greater than Abraham His ancestor.' With words and praises like these did the heavenly choirs magnify her. As to myself, however, I have not spoken as they spoke, neither have I heard as they heard; but according to my ability my weak mouth has declared her story,—the story of her who is full of holiness. I myself am altogether vile, even as a fountain full of mire. Have pity, have pity upon me, Thou Who art full of compassion! Have pity on me, who have made known the story of Thy Mother. Forgive me, forgive me. Thou merciful One,—me who have offered to Thy Mother this sacrifice. Do thou bestow upon the author of these few words far more at the wedding [i.e. in heaven] of Thy super-excellent Mother. He has spoken imperfectly, do Thou, in Thy mercy, perfect him to higher and nobler tasks; and may the Virgin's prayers be a wall of defence to all the world which ever commemorates her festival with great rejoicings. And to Thee, O Christ, with Thy Father, and the
