After these words there came to his dark cell A sacred sign all-glorious from heaven, Like to the shining sun; then was it shown 90 That holy God was working aid for him. The voice of Heaven's Majesty was heard, The music of the glorious Lord's sweet words, Wondrous beneath the skies. To His true thane Brave in the fight, in dungeon harsh confined, He promised help and comfort with clear voice:-- "Matthew, My peace on earth I give to thee; Let not thy heart be troubled, neither mourn Too much in mind; I will abide with thee, And I will loose thee from these bonds that bind 100 Thy limbs, and loose all that great multitude That dwells with thee in strait captivity. To thee I open by My holy power The meadow radiant of Paradise, Brightest of splendors, dwelling-place most fair, That home most blessed, where thou mayst enjoy Glory and bliss to everlasting life. Suffer this people's cruelty; not long Can faithless men afflict thee sinfully With chains of torment by their crafty wiles. Straight will I send unto this heathen town 110 Andrew to be thy comfort and defense; He will release thee from thine enemies. Thou hast not long to wait; in very truth But seven and twenty days fulfil the time, When, sorrow-laden, thou shalt go from hence, Under God's care, with victory adorned." The Holy One, Defense of all mankind, The angels' Lord, departed to the land High in the heavens--He is the King by right, 120 Steadfast He rules supreme in all the world.