A versicle is a short two- or four-line verse that is sung or recited in the liturgy alternating between the celebrant, hebdomadarian or cantor and the congregation. It is usually a psalm verse in two parts. A series of versicles and responses forms the preces. The versicle is sung recitatively on a note with a simple cadence. The letter ℣ indicates the first part of the versicle in many liturgical books; ℟ indicates the answer of the congregation. In case the faithful prays in solitude, he sings or recites both parts of the versicle.