ruby
would have the preference. However, the fact that the sapphire denotes
chastity and celestial purity has caused this stone to be chosen for
the adornment of the rings worn by those who, from their exalted
ecclesiastical rank, are more especially called upon to set a high
example to the priesthood. The shank of Cardinal Farley's ring is one
of the most beautiful examples of American goldsmithing in existence.
The chasing of the circlet shows on one side the ample facade and the
lofty spires of St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York, and on the other
side emblems of the cardinalate. It was the gift of a priest who has
known the Cardinal for many years.55
When
the Right Rev. David H. Greer was consecrated Bishop of New York, some
of his friends presented him with a very handsome amethyst signet, but
unfortunately this tribute was stolen from his home by burglars, two or
three years ago. When necessity arises of making an official signature
he uses a steel impression stamp of the seal of the diocese. He has a
fac-simile impression stamp of the seal which was stolen, but he seldom
or never uses this.56
The
amethyst seal of Bishop Greer bore for its motto, " Crux Mihi Grata
Quies " (The Cross is for me a grateful rest). This is the motto of
Mrs. Greer's family. On the shield is the monogram of the bishop's
initials, D. H. G. ; above are two keys in sal tir e ; on the lower
part of the shield' just beneath the monogram, is the coat-of-arms of
New Amsterdam; as crest is an
55 This ring is figured as frontispiece to the writer's " Curious Lore of Precious Stones," Philadelphia and London, 1913.
66 From a letter written by Bishop Greer to the author, September 22, 1916.
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