And each one with her arm did cover me. “We here are Nymphs, and in the Heaven are stars; 1140 Ere Beatrice descended to the world, We as her handmaids were appointed her. We’ll lead thee to her eyes; but for the pleasant Light that within them is, shall sharpen thine The three beyond, who more profoundly look.” 1141 Thus singing they began; and afterwards Unto the Griffin’s breast they led me with them, Where Beatrice was standing, turned towards us. 1142 “See that thou dost not spare thine eyes,” they said; “Before the emeralds have we stationed thee, 1143 Whence Love aforetime drew for thee his weapons.” A thousand longings, hotter than the flame, Fastened mine eyes upon those eyes relucent, That still upon the Griffin steadfast stayed. As in a glass the sun, not otherwise Within them was the twofold monster shining, 1144 Now with the one, now with the other nature.