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Second Response
Secunda Responsio
Chapter Outline
The seven circles and the transformation of the speaking subject
Night, dawn and the birth of a new heaven and earth
The fraternity’s gift and the meeting on Christ’s day
SECOND RESPONSE. Of B[r?]. of R. C.
I. I step into the seven circles of heaven, comprehend the highest with my thoughts, and stand with my feet upon the lowest circle.
II. When moonlight dazzles my eyes and I stumble over it, fall and break a leg, I make myself a crutch and walk slowly. This is a balm to my inward salt, which heals me again. But when I sweat, a sweet and lovely water issues from my pores, like milk and honey. Then I burn my crutch entirely to ashes. When the ashes glow without smoke, the king’s fountain gives off golden flames. Three then fall into the fountain and bring darkness upon the world until the moonlight breaks through again and becomes bright.
III. The night has passed; the sun gives its light. The days of the Lord draw near. Heaven becomes pure fire and sets the whole world alight.
IV. All four elements melt, and a new heaven and earth are born.
V. These few words contain the treasure of the world, by which your desire will be fulfilled.
VI. Our brotherhood has imparted this to you without any payment. But present yourselves again in our order at St Peter’s on Christ’s day, and B. T. will also follow you. END.