Chapter XXXIX: Predecessors

Faëry of Sheba, idol moulded in Onyx milk-white, moon-mailed and casqued with gems; Ye gold-swathed queens of Egypt, Isis' kin, With bright god-hawks and snakes for diadems; Serene masque-music of Greek girls that bear The sacred Veil to that Athenian feast; Hypatia, casting from thine ivory chair The gods' last challenge to the godless priest; Fantastic fine Provençals wistfully Hearkening Love, the mournful lute player; Diamond ladies of that Italy When Art and Wisdom Passion's angels were-- Ye give this grail (touch with no mad misprision!) Of Beauty's rose-red miracled tradition.