Then the Father, the Spirit of comfort, there as 1105 they were watching, caused a sign in the form of fire to rise up where the precious nails were cunningly hid in the earth by the devices of men. Forthwith there came a leaping flame brighter than 1110 the sun. The people beheld a miracle shown forth unto their queen, where, like unto the stars of heaven or gems set in gold, out of the darkness glittered the nails brightly, gleaming from their burial-place 1115 beneath the surface of the earth. The people rejoiced, the throng were glad of heart; and they said with one accord that the miracle was of God, although hitherto they had been long in heresy and turned from Christ, through the death-wielding power of the devil. Thus they spake:--'Now do 1120 we ourselves behold the sign of victory, the true miracle of God, whom we formerly withstood with falsehood. Now is the course of the mystery come into light and revealed. Wherefore may the God of the heavenly kingdom have glory in the highest.' 1125 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.