¹ [Here] begins the hymn [in honour] of Saint Patrick. Look! there shines the most illustrious celebration of St. Patrick! On which he, happy, having laid aside the flesh, passed beyond the stars. Who, full of Divine grace, even from boyhood, began to love the life of angelic dignity. He was born in Britain of a noble family, and having received baptism, he strove to aim at high things. But the Lord, conscious of the future, merciful, and ruler, directed this apostle to the people of Ireland. For this island was fruitful in the good things of the earth but by its idolatrous worship it was sinking to the lowest. The illustrious doctor, Patrick, coming to this [island], preached to the Gentiles that which he kept by his works. The nation flocked to his holy admonitions, and, rejecting the Devil, worshipped the King of all. And he rejoiced to return himselt to a free country, from where the guile of the serpent had been formerly expelled. And so, dearly beloved, in praise of this leader, Let us sing to Christ in alternate songs with hearts and voices. That, freed by his prayers trom vice, We may enjoy the angelic vision in glory. Praise be to the Father, and the Son, with the Spirit the Comforter, Who with the gift of his grace pitied Ireland. Amen.'