Classic Poem

Agnes the Roman maiden dared defy
The tyrant's fury, and her tender frame
The bitter torment and the bitterer shame,
Unmoved, unmoveable, made light to die;

Counting death sweetness sooner than deny
The blessed stigma of the blessed name
Which quenches flame without with inward flame.
Challenged to choose, Saint Agnes made reply:

My Lord has set His seal upon my face,
Engaging all my love to make me sure;
He set the ring of faith upon my hand,
Upon my neck the necklace of His grace.
Chaste in His love, and, having touched Him, pure,
Receiving Him, His virgin still I stand.