And to fulfil the promise of the year.

Betwixt two seasons comes the auspicious heir,

This age to blossom, and the next to bear.

Last solemn Sabbath[290] saw the church attend,

The Paraclete in fiery pomp descend;

But when his wonderous octave[291] rolled again,

He brought a royal infant in his train:

So great a blessing to so good a king,

None but the Eternal Comforter could bring.

Or did the mighty Trinity conspire,