Four links of chain

Mary had three links of chain,

and on every link was Jesus' name

-- old person-of-color spiritual

Can we get a rosariform poem down to three links?

• 8 links: abca dced fegf hgbh
• 7 links: abca dced fegf bg
• 6 links: abca dced febf
• 5 links: abca dced be
• 4 links: abca dcbd
• 3 links: abca bc
• 2 links: abba
• 1 link: aa

Technically, the number of links can be whittled down all the way to one, but I think the scheme ceases to be interesting with fewer than four. I mean, the two- and three-link varieties are nothing but the components of a Petrarchan sonnet, and one link is obviously no chain at all.

Four links of chain it is, then, since one wants to start small before working all the way up to a full 54-link (108-line) mala.

And, having tasked myself with composing a prayer to be repeated, can it be any surprise to whom I should turn for inspiration?

Unconquer'd Joan, O maiden brave,

To thee be this petition pray'd,

That we may see, through mist and dark,

Thy lily-spangl'd banner wave,

And, rising from the dust, be men!

That from thy flaming soul a spark

Ignite our hearts. O blessed Maid

Of Heaven, pray for us! Amen.