Then was the bishop of the people rejoiced anew, he who had turned with repentance through the Son of God.  Awe-struck he took the nails, and bore them unto the revered queen.  Cyriacus had 1130 fulfilled all the woman’s wish, even as his noble mistress bade him.  Then was there the sound of lamentation, and hot tears welling over their faces—­yet not at all for sorrow; her tears fell over the nails.  Wondrously was the desire of the queen fulfilled. 1135 With joyous faith she laid them upon her knees, and, rejoicing in her happiness, revered the gift that was brought unto her as a solace for her sadness.  She gave thanks unto God, the Lord of victories, that now she knew the truth which had oft 1140 been foretold long before from the beginning of the world as a comfort for the nations.  She was filled with the grace of wisdom, and the Holy Spirit of 1145 heaven held the dwelling of her body, and guarded her both heart and soul.  Thus the almighty, victorious Son of God had care for her thereafter.

18.  ELENE’S disposal of the nails.

Then she began zealously through the mysteries of the Holy Spirit to search out the truth and the way to glory.  Verily the Lord of hosts, King 1150 Almighty, gave aid that the queen might win her wish in the world.  From the beginning all the prophecy was chanted in times before by the seers of old, and thus it happened in every respect. 1155 Through the grace of the Holy Spirit the queen zealously began to search out with great care wherefor she might best and most fitly for the solace of men use the nails, and what was the will of the 1160 Lord.  Then bade she bring at once unto a secret council an exceeding wise man, who, learned in mind, by his wise power knew fully the rede of sages; and she began to inquire of him what he 1165 deemed best to be done about this.  And obediently she chose his advice.

Earnestly he answered her:—­’It is fitting that thou hold in thy heart the word of the Lord, His holy mystery, O best of queens, and zealously 1170 fulfil the bidding of the king, now that God, Redeemer of men, hath given unto thee good speed for thy soul, and the skill of wisdom.  Do thou bid that these nails be set upon the bridle, as a bit 1175 for the horse of the most noble among castle-ruling kings.  It shall become famed to many throughout the world when he shall overcome each of his enemies thereby in the contest, as with brave hearts and brandished swords they seek the battle on either 1180 side, and strive for the mastery there, foe against foe.  He shall have good speed in war, victory in battle, and peace everywhere, the calm following the strife, who holds the bridle before him upon a white 1185 steed when his trusty heroes, far-famed in the fight, bear shield and spear into the press of weapons.  For any