Till as she grew in age it now befell
That she must wed as other maidens use,
Nor might she through unwillingness refuse.

But God's high purpose had she to fulfil;
Through her and her sweet teaching was her mate,
Valerian, to knowledge brought, until
Baptised by holy Urban, recreate
Through Heaven's grace, he power had to see
A holy angel, sent by Heaven's decree.

The angel stood arrayed in shining light,
Bearing two wreaths, of rose and lilies made,
And said, "Though these are hid from all men's sight,
Yet on your heads these flowers shall never fade,
But shed their savour round you every hour.
Decay and death shall o'er them have no power."

Next, to their faith, Tiberius they won,
Valerian's brother, dearest to his heart.
In him also the works of faith were done,
Nor need they ever more asunder part,
But all the three, their minds and souls address
To do God's will in joyful business.

Not long from martyrs is the tyrant's hand
Withheld, not long in peace may virtue bide,
For false Almachius with an armed band
Had seized the brothers, dragged them to his side
That they might incense burn to idols there,