Here you straightway behold a black beast in the forest. “The Sage says That a wild beast is in the forest, Whose skin is of blackest dye. If any man cut off his head, His blackness will disappear, And give place to a snowy white. Understand well the meaning of this head: The blackness is called the head of the Raven; As soon as it disappears, A white colour is straightway manifested; It is given this name, despoiled of its head. When the Beast's black hue has vanished in a black smoke, The Sages rejoice From the bottom of their hearts; But they keep it a close secret, That no foolish man may know it. Yet unto their Sons, in kindness of heart, They partly reveal it in their writings; And therefore let those who receive the gif Enjoy it also in silence, Since God would have it concealed.”
- The Book of Lambspring. 1556