Paradise Lost and ParadiseRegained

JOHNMILTON

William Ralph Press

Omaha

www.williamralphpress.com

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by anyelectronic or mechanical means, including information storage andretrieval systems, without permission in writing from the publisher,except by a reviewer, who may quote brief passages in a review. Anyother request to reprint, copy or quote should be submitted in writing toWilliam Ralph Press.

ISBN: 978-1-932023-46-6

First E-Edition

Paradise Lost and Paradise Regained © William Ralph PressAll RightsReserved, except where otherwise noted

Contents

Introduction

PARADISELOST

BookI

BookII

BookIII

BookIV

BookV

BookVI

BookVII

BookVIII

BookIX

BookX

BookXI

BookXII

PARADISEREGAIN'D

BookI

BookII

BookIII

BookIV

AlsofromWilliamRalphPress

Introduction

IfirstreadParadiseLostasayoungundergraduatewiththatfeelingof panicthat inhabits onewhen one gets one’s first small inkling about just howmanybooksarereallyoutthere,andthencomparesthatnumberwiththenumberof booksonehasreadinone’slifeuptothatpoint.Iwascertainthatmyparticularnumberwasmodestlyimpressive.ThenIdidtheroughmath,andfelt—alittledesperately—thatIbetterpickupthepace.Whatsurprisedmeaboutthebook,thatIwassurewasgoingtobedifficultanddry,wasthatitwasneither.

I present hereParadise Lost as rendered in the 1674 edition whichexpanded the original printing from ten to twelve books, retaining the1668secondpressing’sprefatoryarguments,whichMiltonaddedafterthefirst pressing. I have retained Milton’s spelling from the original 1667edition because there is no getting around that the original ten bookversionhasasenseof livelinessthatonewantswithouthavingtosacrificethefullvisionheultimatelyhadforhismasterpiece.

Paradise Regained is reproduced as closely as possible to its original 1671edition,andrequiresnofurthereditorialelucidation.

IsincerelyhopeyouenjoythemasmuchasIhaveovertheyears.

—NeilAzevedo,10/10/14

PARADISE LOST

(1667-1671)

TheVerse

TheMeasure isEnglishHeroicVersewithoutRime, as that of Homer inGreek,andVirgil inLatin;RhimebeingnonecessaryAdjunctortrueOrnamentof PoemorgoodVerse, in longerWorksespecially,but theInventionof abarbarousAge, tosetoff

wretchedmatterandlameMeeter;grac’tindeedsincebytheuseof somefamousmodern

Poets,carriedawaybyCustom,butmuchtothirownvexation,hindrance,andconstraint

to express many things otherwise, and for the most part worse then else they would

haveexprestthem.NotwithoutcausethereforesomebothItalian,andSpanishPoetsofprimenotehaverejectedRhimebothinlongerandshorterWorks,ashavealsolongsince

ourbestEnglishTragedies,asathingof itself,toalljudiciousears,triveal,andof notruemusicaldelight;whichconsistsonelyinaptNumbers,fitquantityof Syllables,and

the sensevariouslydrawnout fromoneVerse intoanother,not in the jinglingsoundof

likeendings,afaultavoydedbythelearnedAncientsbothinPoetryandallgoodOratory.

This neglect then of Rhime so little is to be taken for a defect, though itmay seem so

perhaps to vulgar Readers, that it rather is to be esteem’d an example set, the first

inEnglish,ofancient libertyrecover’d toheroicPoemfrom the troublesomandmodernbondageofRimeing.

Book I

TheArgument

ThisfirstBookproposes,firstinbrief,thewholeSubject,Mansdisobedience,

and the loss thereupon of Paradise wherein he was plac’t:Then touchesthe primecauseof his fall, theSerpent,or ratherSatanin theSerpent;who revolting fromGod,anddrawingtohissidemanyLegionsof Angels,wasbythecommandof Goddrivenout

of Heaven with all his Crew into the great Deep.Which action past over, thePoemhastsintothemidstof things,presentingSatanwithhisAngelsnowfalleninto Hell,describ’d here, not in the Center(for Heaven and Earth may besuppos’d as yet not made, certainly not yet accurst)but in a place of utterdarkness,fitliestcall’dChaos:HereSatanwithhisAngelslyingontheburningLake,thunder-struckandastonisht,aftera certain space recovers,as fromconfusion, callsup

himwhonextinOrderandDignitylaybyhim;theyconferof thirmiserablefall.SatanawakensallhisLegions,who lay till then in the samemanner confounded;They rise,

thirNumbers, array of Battel, thir chief Leaders nam’d, according to the Idols known

afterwardsinCanaanandtheCountriesadjoyning.TotheseSatandirectshisSpeech,comfortsthemwithhopeyetof regainingHeaven,buttellsthemlastlyof anewWorld

andnewkind of Creature tobe created,according toanancientProphesie or report in

Heaven;for that Angels were long before this visible Creation, was theopinionofmanyancientFathers.Tofindoutthetruthof thisProphesie,andwhatto determin thereon he refers to a full Councel. What his Associates thence attempt.

PandemoniumthePalaceof Satanrises,suddenlybuiltoutof theDeep:TheinfernalPeerstheresitinCouncel.

OfMansFirstDisobedience,andtheFruitOfthatForbiddenTree,whosemortaltastBroughtDeathintotheWorld,andallourwoe,WithlossofEden,tillonegreaterManRestoreus,andregaintheblissfulSeat,SingHeav’nlyMuse,thatonthesecrettopOfOreb,orofSinai,didstinspireThatShepherd,whofirsttaughtthechosenSeed,IntheBeginninghowtheHeav’nsandEarthRoseoutofChaos:OrifSionHill(10)Delighttheemore,andSiloa’sBrookthatflow’dFastbytheOracleofGod;IthenceInvokethyaidtomyadventrousSong,ThatwithnomiddleflightintendstosoarAboveth’AonianMount,whileitpursuesThingsunattemptedyetinProseorRhime.AndchieflyThouOSpirit,thatdostpreferBeforeallTemplesth’uprightheartandpure,Instructme,forThouknow’st;ThoufromthefirstWastpresent,andwithmightywingsoutspread(20)Dove-likesatstbroodingonthevastAbyssAndmad’stitpregnant:WhatinmeisdarkIllumin,whatislowraiseandsupport;ThattothehighthofthisgreatArgumentImayassertth’EternalProvidence,AndjustifiethewayesofGodtomen.

Sayfirst,forHeav’nhidesnothingfromthyviewNorthedeepTractofHell,sayfirstwhatcauseMov’dourGrandParentsinthathappyState,Favour’dofHeav’nsohighly,tofalloff(30)FromtheirCreator,andtransgresshisWillForonerestraint,LordsoftheWorldbesides?Whofirstseduc’dthemtothatfowlrevolt?Th’infernalSerpent;heitwas,whoseguileStirdupwithEnvyandRevenge,deceiv’dTheMotherofMankinde,whattimehisPrideHadcasthimoutfromHeav’n,withallhisHostOfRebelAngels,bywhoseaidaspiringTosethimselfinGloryabovehisPeers,Hetrustedtohaveequal’dthemostHigh,(40)Ifheoppos’d;andwithambitiousaimAgainsttheThroneandMonarchyofGodRais’dimpiousWarinHeav’nandBattelproudWithvainattempt.HimtheAlmightyPowerHurldheadlongflamingfromth’EtherealSkieWithhideousruineandcombustiondownTobottomlessperdition,theretodwellInAdamantineChainsandpenalFire,Whodurstdefieth’OmnipotenttoArms.NinetimestheSpacethatmeasuresDayandNight(50)Tomortalmen,hewithhishorridcrewLayvanquisht,rowlinginthefieryGulfeConfoundedthoughimmortal:ButhisdoomReserv’dhimtomorewrath;fornowthethought

BothoflosthappinessandlastingpainTormentshim;roundhethrowshisbalefuleyesThatwitness’dhugeafflictionanddismayMixtwithobdurateprideandstedfasthate:AtonceasfarasAngelskennheviewsThedismalSituationwasteandwilde,(60)ADungeonhorrible,onallsidesroundAsonegreatFurnaceflam’d,yetfromthoseflamesNolight,butratherdarknessvisibleServ’donlytodiscoversightsofwoe,Regionsofsorrow,dolefulshades,wherepeaceAndrestcanneverdwell,hopenevercomesThatcomestoall;buttorturewithoutendStillurges,andafieryDeluge,fedWithever-burningSulphurunconsum’d:SuchplaceEternalJusticehadprepar’d(70)Forthoserebellious,heretheirPrisonordain’dInutterdarkness,andtheirportionsetAsfarremov’dfromGodandlightofHeav’nAsfromtheCenterthricetoth’utmostPole.Ohowunliketheplacefromwhencetheyfell!Therethecompanionsofhisfall,o’rewhelm’dWithFloodsandWhirlwindsoftempestuousfire,Hesoondiscerns,andweltringbyhissideOnenexthimselfinpower,andnextincrime,LongafterknowninPalestine,andnam’d(80)Bëëlzebub.Towhomth’Arch-Enemy,AndthenceinHeav’ncall’dSatan,withboldwords

Breakingthehorridsilencethusbegan.Ifthoubeesthe;ButOhowfall’n!howchang’dFromhim,whointhehappyRealmsofLightCloth’dwithtranscendentbrightnessdidstoutshineMyriadsthoughbright:Ifhewhommutualleague,Unitedthoughtsandcounsels,equalhopeAndhazardintheGloriousEnterprize,Joyndwithmeonce,nowmiseryhathjoynd(90)Inequalruin:intowhatPitthouseestFromwhathighthfal’n,somuchthestrongerprov’dHewithhisThunder:andtillthenwhoknewTheforceofthosedireArms?yetnotforthose,NorwhatthePotentVictorinhisrageCanelseinflictdoIrepentorchange,Thoughchang’dinoutwardlustre;thatfixtmindAndhighdisdain,fromsenceofinjur’dmerit,Thatwiththemightiestrais’dmetocontend,Andtothefiercecontentionbroughtalong(100)InnumerableforceofSpiritsarm’dThatdurstdislikehisreign,andmepreferring,Hisutmostpowerwithadversepoweroppos’dIndubiousBattelonthePlainsofHeav’n,Andshookhisthrone.Whatthoughthefieldbelost?Allisnotlost;theunconquerableWill,Andstudyofrevenge,immortalhate,Andcouragenevertosubmitoryield:Andwhatiselsenottobeovercome?

ThatGlorynevershallhiswrathormight(110)Extortfromme.TobowandsueforgraceWithsuppliantknee,anddeifiehispowerWhofromtheterrourofthisArmsolateDoubtedhisEmpire,thatwerelowindeed,ThatwereanignominyandshamebeneathThisdownfall;sincebyFatethestrengthofGodsAndthisEmpyrealsubstancecannotfail,SincethroughexperienceofthisgreateventInArmsnotworse,inforesightmuchadvanc’t,Wemaywithmoresuccessfulhoperesolve(120)TowagebyforceorguileeternalWarrIrreconcileable,toourgrandFoe,Whonowtriumphs,andinth’excessofjoySolereigningholdstheTyrannyofHeav’n.Sospaketh’ApostateAngel,thoughinpain,Vauntingaloud,butracktwithdeepdespare:Andhimthusanswer’dsoonhisboldCompeer.OPrince,OChiefofmanyThronedPowers,Thatledth’imbattelldSeraphimtoWarrUnderthyconduct,andindreadfuldeeds(130)Fearless,endanger’dHeav’nsperpetualKing;AndputtoproofhishighSupremacy,Whetherupheldbystrength,orChance,orFate,ToowellIseeandruethedireevent,ThatwithsadoverthrowandfouldefeatHathlostusHeav’n,andallthismightyHostInhorribledestructionlaidthuslow,

AsfarasGodsandHeav’nlyEssencesCanperish:forthemindandspiritremainsInvincible,andvigoursoonreturns,(140)ThoughallourGloryextinct,andhappystateHereswallow’dupinendlessmisery.ButwhatifheourConquerour,(whomInowOfforcebelieveAlmighty,sincenolessThensuchcouldhavorepow’rdsuchforceasours)HaveleftusthisourspiritandstrengthintireStronglytosufferandsupportourpains,Thatwemaysosufficehisvengefulire,OrdohimmightierserviceashisthrallsByrightofWarr,whate’rehisbusinessbe(150)HereintheheartofHelltoworkinFire,OrdohisErrandsinthegloomyDeep;WhatcanitthenavailthoughyetwefeelStrengthundiminisht,oreternalbeingToundergoeternalpunishment?Wheretowithspeedywordsth’Arch-fiendreply’d.Fall’nCherube,tobeweakismiserableDoingorSuffering:butofthisbesure,Todooughtgoodneverwillbeourtask,Butevertodoilloursoledelight,(160)AsbeingthecontrarytohishighwillWhomweresist.IfthenhisProvidenceOutofourevilseektobringforthgood,Ourlabourmustbetopervertthatend,Andoutofgoodstilltofindmeansofevil;

Whichofttimesmaysucceed,soasperhapsShallgrievehim,ifIfailnot,anddisturbHisinmostcounselsfromtheirdestindaim.ButseetheangryVictorhathrecall’dHisMinistersofvengeanceandpursuit(170)BacktotheGatesofHeav’n:TheSulphurousHailShotafterusinstorm,oreblownhathlaidThefierySurge,thatfromthePrecipiceOfHeav’nreceiv’dusfalling,andtheThunder,Wing’dwithredLightningandimpetuousrage,Perhapshathspenthisshafts,andceasesnowTobellowthroughthevastandboundlessDeep.Letusnotslipth’occasion,whetherscorn,OrsatiatefuryyielditfromourFoe.SeestthouyondrearyPlain,forlornandwilde,(180)Theseatofdesolation,voydoflight,SavewhattheglimmeringoftheselividflamesCastspaleanddreadful?ThitherletustendFromoffthetossingofthesefierywaves,Thererest,ifanyrestcanharbourthere,AndreassemblingourafflictedPowers,ConsulthowwemayhenceforthmostoffendOurEnemy,ourownlosshowrepair,HowovercomethisdireCalamity,WhatreinforcementwemaygainfromHope,(190)Ifnotwhatresolutionfromdespare.ThusSatantalkingtohisneerestMate

WithHeadup-liftabovethewave,andEyesThatsparklingblaz’d,hisotherPartsbesidesProneontheFlood,extendedlongandlargeLayfloatingmanyarood,inbulkashugeAswhomtheFablesnameofmonstroussize,Titanian,orEarth-born,thatwarr’donJove,BriariosorTyphon,whomtheDenByancientTarsusheld,orthatSea-beast(200)Leviathan,whichGodofallhisworksCreatedhugestthatswimth’Oceanstream:HimhaplyslumbringontheNorwayfoamThePilotofsomesmallnight-founder’dSkiff,DeemingsomeIsland,oft,asSea-mentell,WithfixedAnchorinhisskalyrindMoorsbyhissideundertheLee,whileNightInveststheSea,andwishedMorndelayes:SostretchtouthugeinlengththeArch-fiendlayChain’dontheburningLake,noreverthence(210)Hadris’norheav’dhishead,butthatthewillAndhighpermissionofall-rulingHeavenLefthimatlargetohisowndarkdesigns,ThatwithreiteratedcrimeshemightHeaponhimselfdamnation,whilehesoughtEviltoothers,andenrag’dmightseeHowallhismaliceserv’dbuttobringforthInfinitegoodness,graceandmercyshewnOnManbyhimseduc’t,butonhimselfTrebleconfusion,wrathandvengeancepour’d.(220)

ForthwithuprightherearsfromoffthePoolHismightyStature;oneachhandtheflamesDrivnbackwardslopetheirpointingspires,androwldInbillows,leavei’th’midstahorridVale.ThenwithexpandedwingshestearshisflightAloft,incumbentontheduskyAirThatfeltunusualweight,tillondryLandHelights,ifitwereLandthateverburn’dWithsolid,astheLakewithliquidfire;Andsuchappear’dinhue,aswhentheforce(230)OfsubterraneanwindtransportsaHillTornfromPelorus,ortheshatter’dsideOfthundringÆtna,whosecombustibleAndfewel’dentralsthenceconceivingFire,Sublim’dwithMineralfury,aidtheWinds,Andleaveasingedbottomallinvolv’dWithstenchandsmoak:SuchrestingfoundthesoleOfunblestfeet.HimfollowedhisnextMate,Bothgloryingtohavescap’ttheStygianfloodAsGods,andbytheirownrecover’dstrength,(240)NotbythesufferanceofsupernalPower.IsthistheRegion,thistheSoil,theClime,SaidthenthelostArch-Angel,thistheseatThatwemustchangeforHeav’n,thismournfulgloomForthatcelestiallight?Beitso,sinceheeWhonowisSovrancandisposeandbidWhatshallberight:fardestfromhimisbestWhomreasonhathequald,forcehathmadesupream

Abovehisequals.FarewelhappyFieldsWhereJoyforeverdwells:Hailhorrours,hail(250)Infernalworld,andthouprofoundestHellReceivethynewPossessor:OnewhobringsAmindnottobechang’dbyPlaceorTime.Themindisitsownplace,andinitselfCanmakeaHeav’nofHell,aHellofHeav’n.Whatmatterwhere,ifIbestillthesame,AndwhatIshouldbe,allbutlessthenheWhomThunderhathmadegreater?HereatleastWeshallbefree;th’AlmightyhathnotbuiltHereforhisenvy,willnotdriveushence:(260)Herewemayreignsecure,andinmychoyceToreignisworthambitionthoughinHell:BettertoreigninHell,thenserveinHeav’n.Butwhereforeletwethenourfaithfulfriends,Th’associatesandcopartnersofourlossLyethusastonishtonth’obliviousPool,AndcallthemnottosharewithustheirpartInthisunhappyMansion,oroncemoreWithralliedArmstotrywhatmaybeyetRegaindinHeav’n,orwhatmorelostinHell?(270)SoSatanspake,andhimBëëlzebubThusanswer’d.LeaderofthoseArmiesbright,Whichbutth’Onmipotentnonecouldhavefoyld,Ifoncetheyhearthatvoyce,theirliveliestpledgeOfhopeinfearsanddangers,heardsooft

Inworstextreams,andontheperilousedgeOfbattelwhenitrag’d,inallassaultsTheirsurestsignal,theywillsoonresumeNewcourageandrevive,thoughnowtheylyeGrovelingandprostrateonyonLakeofFire,(280)Asweerewhile,astoundedandamaz’d,Nowonder,fall’nsuchapernicioushighth.Hescarcehadceas’twhenthesuperiourFiendWasmovingtowardtheshoar;hisponderousshieldEtherealtemper,massy,largeandround,Behindhimcast;thebroadcircumferenceHungonhisshouldersliketheMoon,whoseOrbThroughOpticGlasstheTuscanArtistviewsAtEv’ningfromthetopofFesole,OrinValdarno,todescrynewLands,(290)RiversorMountainsinherspottyGlobe.HisSpear,toequalwhichthetallestPineHewnonNorwegianhills,tobetheMastOfsomegreatAmmiral,werebutawand,HewalktwithtosupportuneasiestepsOvertheburningMarle,notlikethosestepsOnHeavensAzure,andthetorridClimeSmoteonhimsorebesides,vaultedwithFire;Nathlesshesoendur’d,tillontheBeachOfthatinflamedSea,hestoodandcall’d(300)HisLegions,AngelForms,wholayintrans’tThickasAutumnalLeavesthatstrowtheBrooksInVallombrosa,whereth’Etrurianshades

Highoverarch’timbowr;orscatterdsedgeAfloat,whenwithfierceWindsOrionarm’dHathvexttheRed-SeaCoast,whosewavesorethrewBusirisandhisMemphianChivalrie,Whilewithperfidioushatredtheypursu’dTheSojournersofGoshen,whobeheldFromthesafeshoretheirfloatingCarkases(310)AndbrokenChariotWheels,sothickbestrownAbjectandlostlaythese,coveringtheFlood,Underamazementoftheirhideouschange.Hecall’dsoloud,thatallthehollowDeepOfHellresounded.Princes,Potentates,Warriers,theFlowrofHeav’n,onceyours,nowlost,IfsuchastonishmentasthiscansiezeEternalspirits;orhaveyechos’nthisplaceAfterthetoylofBatteltoreposeYourweariedvertue,fortheeaseyoufind(320)Toslumberhere,asintheValesofHeav’n?OrinthisabjectposturehaveyeswornToadoretheConquerour?whonowbeholdsCherubeandSeraphrowlingintheFloodWithscatter’dArmsandEnsigns,tillanonHisswiftpursuersfromHeav’nGatesdiscernTh’advantage,anddescendingtreadusdownThusdrooping,orwithlinkedThunderboltsTransfixustothebottomofthisGulfe.Awake,arise,orbeforeverfall’n.(330)Theyheard,andwereabasht,anduptheysprung

Uponthewing,aswhenmenwonttowatchOnduty,sleepingfoundbywhomtheydread,Rouseandbestirthemselveserewellawake.NordidtheynotperceavetheevilplightInwhichtheywere,orthefiercepainsnotfeel;YettotheirGeneralsVoycetheysoonobeydInnumerable.AswhenthepotentRodOfAmramsSoninEgyptsevilldayWav’droundtheCoast,upcall’dapitchycloud(340)OfLocusts,warpingontheEasternWind,ThatoretheRealmofimpiousPharaohhungLikeNight,anddarken’dalltheLandofNile:SonumberlesswerethosebadAngelsseenHoveringonwingundertheCopeofHell‘Twixtupper,nether,andsurroundingFires;Till,asasignalgiv’n,th’upliftedSpearOftheirgreatSultanwavingtodirectThircourse,inevenballancedowntheylightOnthefirmbrimstone,andfillallthePlain;(350)Amultitude,likewhichthepopulousNorthPour’dneverfromherfrozenloyns,topassRheneortheDanaw,whenherbarbarousSonsCamelikeaDelugeontheSouth,andspreadBeneathGibraltertotheLybiansands.ForthwithfromeverySquadronandeachBandTheHeadsandLeadersthitherhastwherestoodTheirgreatCommander;Godlikeshapesandforms

Excellinghuman,PrincelyDignities,AndPowersthatearstinHeavensatonThrones;(360)ThoughoftheirNamesinheav’nlyRecordsnowBenomemorialblottedoutandras’dBythirRebellion,fromtheBooksofLife.NorhadtheyyetamongtheSonsofEveGotthemnewNames,tillwandringoretheEarth,ThroughGodshighsufferanceforthetryalofman,ByfalsitiesandlyesthegreatestpartOfMankindtheycorruptedtoforsakeGodtheirCreator,andth’invisibleGloryofhimthatmadethem,totransform(370)OfttotheImageofaBrute,adorn’dWithgayReligionsfullofPompandGold,AndDevilstoadoreforDeities:ThenweretheyknowntomenbyvariousNames,AndvariousIdolsthroughtheHeathenWorld.Say,Muse,theirNamesthenknown,whofirst,wholast,Rous’dfromtheslumber,onthatfieryCouch,AtthirgreatEmperorscall,asnextinworthCamesinglywherehestoodonthebarestrand,Whilethepromiscuouscroudstoodyetaloof?(380)ThechiefwerethosewhofromthePitofHellRoamingtoseektheirpreyonearth,durstfixTheirSeatslongafternexttheSeatofGod,TheirAltarsbyhisAltar,Godsador’dAmongtheNationsround,anddurstabideJehovahthundringoutofSion,thron’d

BetweentheCherubim;yea,oftenplac’dWithinhisSanctuaryitselftheirShrines,Abominations;andwithcursedthingsHisholyRites,andsolemnFeastsprofan’d,(390)Andwiththeirdarknessdurstaffronthislight.FirstMoloch,horridKingbesmear’dwithbloodOfhumansacrifice,andparentstears,ThoughforthenoyseofDrumsandTimbrelsloudTheirchildrenscriesunheard,thatpastthroughfireTohisgrimIdol.HimtheAmmoniteWorshiptinRabbaandherwatryPlain,InArgobandinBasan,tothestreamOfutmostArnon.NorcontentwithsuchAudaciousneighbourhood,thewisestheart(400)OfSolomonheledbyfraudtobuildHisTemplerightagainsttheTempleofGodOnthatopprobriousHill,andmadehisGroveThepleasantVallyofHinnom,TophetthenceAndblackGehennacall’d,theTypeofHell.NextChemos,th’obscenedreadofMoabsSons,FromAroartoNebo,andthewildOfSouthmostAbarim;inHesebonAndHoronaim,SeonsRealm,beyondTheflowryDaleofSibmacladwithVines,(410)AndElealetoth’AsphaltickPool.PeorhisotherName,whenheentic’dIsraelinSittimontheirmarchfromNileTodohimwantonrites,whichcostthemwoe.

YetthencehislustfulOrgiesheenlarg’dEventothatHillofscandal,bytheGroveOfMolochhomicide,lusthardbyhate;TillgoodJosiahdrovethemthencetoHell.Withthesecamethey,whofromthebordringfloodOfoldEuphratestotheBrookthatparts(420)EgyptfromSyrianground,hadgeneralNamesOfBaalimandAshtaroth,thosemale,TheseFeminine.ForSpiritswhentheypleaseCaneitherSexassume,orboth;sosoftAnduncompoundedistheirEssencepure,Notti’dormanacl’dwithjoyntorlimb,Norfoundedonthebrittlestrengthofbones,Likecumbrousflesh;butinwhatshapetheychooseDilatedorcondens’t,brightorobscure,Canexecutetheiraeriepurposes,(430)Andworksofloveorenmityfulfill.ForthosetheRaceofIsraeloftforsookTheirlivingstrength,andunfrequentedleftHisrighteousAltar,bowinglowlydownTobestialGods;forwhichtheirheadsaslowBow’ddowninBattel,sunkbeforetheSpearOfdespicablefoes.WiththeseintroopCameAstoreth,whomthePhœnicianscall’dAstarte,QueenofHeav’n,withcrescentHorns;TowhosebrightImagenightlybytheMoon(440)SidonianVirginspaidtheirVowsandSongs,

InSionalsonotunsung,wherestoodHerTempleonth’offensiveMountain,builtBythatuxoriousKing,whoseheartthoughlarge,Beguil’dbyfairIdolatresses,fellToIdolsfoul.Thammuzcamenextbehind,WhoseannualwoundinLebanonallur’dTheSyrianDamselstolamenthisfateInamorousdittyesallaSummersday,WhilesmoothAdonisfromhisnativeRock(450)RanpurpletotheSea,suppos’dwithbloodOfThammuzyearlywounded:theLove-taleInfectedSionsdaughterswithlikeheat,WhosewantonpassionsinthesacredPorchEzekielsaw,whenbytheVisionledHiseyesurvay’dthedarkIdolatriesOfalienatedJudah.NextcameoneWhomourn’dinearnest,whentheCaptiveArkMaim’dhisbruteImage,headandhandsloptoffInhisownTemple,onthegrunseledge,(460)Wherehefellflat,andsham’dhisWorshipers:DagonhisName,SeaMonster,upwardManAnddownwardFish:yethadhisTemplehighRear’dinAzotus,dreadedthroughtheCoastOfPalestine,inGathandAscalonAndAccaronandGaza’sfrontierbounds.Himfollow’dRimmon,whosedelightfulSeatWasfairDamascus,onthefertilBanksOfAbbanaandPharphar,lucidstreams.

HealsoagainstthehouseofGodwasbold:(470)ALeperoncehelostandgain’daKing,AhazhissottishConquerour,whomhedrewGodsAltartodisparageanddisplaceForoneofSyrianmode,whereontoburnHisodiousoffrings,andadoretheGodsWhomhehadvanquisht.Aftertheseappear’dAcrewwhounderNamesofoldRenown,Osiris,Isis,OrusandtheirTrainWithmonstrousshapesandsorceriesabus’dFanaticEgyptandherPriests,toseek(480)ThirwandringGodsdisguis’dinbrutishformsRatherthenhuman.NordidIsraelscapeTh’infectionwhentheirborrow’dGoldcompos’dTheCalfinOreb:andtheRebelKingDoubl’dthatsininBethelandinDan,Lik’ninghisMakertotheGrazedOx,Jehovah,whoinoneNightwhenhepass’dFromEgyptmarching,equal’dwithonestrokeBothherfirstbornandallherbleatingGods.Belialcamelast,thenwhomaSpiritmorelewd(490)FellnotfromHeaven,ormoregrosstoloveViceforitself:TohimnoTemplestoodOrAltarsmoak’d;yetwhomoreoftthenheeInTemplesandatAltars,whenthePriestTurnsAtheist,asdidEly’sSons,whofill’dWithlustandviolencethehouseofGod.InCourtsandPalaceshealsoReigns

AndinluxuriousCities,wherethenoyseOfriotascendsabovethirloftiestTowrs,Andinjuryandoutrage:AndwhenNight(500)DarkenstheStreets,thenwanderforththeSonsOfBelial,flownwithinsolenceandwine.WitnesstheStreetsofSodom,andthatnightInGibeah,whenthehospitableDoresYieldedthirMatronstopreventworserape.Theseweretheprimeinorderandinmight;Therestwerelongtotell,thoughfarrenown’d,Th’IonianGods,ofJavansIssueheldGods,yetconfestlaterthenHeav’nandEarthThirboastedParents;TitanHeav’nsfirstborn(510)Withhisenormousbrood,andbirthrightseis’dByyoungerSaturn,hefrommightierJoveHisownandRhea’sSonlikemeasurefound;SoJoveusurpingreign’d:thesefirstinCreetAndIdaknown,thenceontheSnowytopOfcoldOlympusrul’dthemiddleAirThirhighestHeav’n;orontheDelphianCliff,OrinDodona,andthroughalltheboundsOfDoricLand;orwhowithSaturnoldFledoverAdriatoth’HesperianFields,(520)AndoretheCelticroam’dtheutmostIsles.Alltheseandmorecameflocking;butwithlooksDowncastanddamp,yetsuchwhereinappear’dObscuresomglimpsofjoy,tohavefoundthirchief

Notindespair,tohavefoundthemselvesnotlostInlossitself;whichonhiscount’nancecastLikedoubtfulhue:buthehiswontedprideSoonrecollecting,withhighwords,thatboreSemblanceofworthnotsubstance,gentlyrais’dTheirfaintedcourage,anddispel’dtheirfears.(530)ThenstraitcommandsthatatthewarlikesoundOfTrumpetsloudandClarionsbeupreardHismightyStandard;thatproudhonourclaim’dAzazelashisright,aCherubetall:WhoforthwithfromtheglitteringStaffunfurldTh’ImperialEnsign,whichfullhighadvanc’tShonlikeaMeteorstreamingtotheWindWithGemmsandGoldenlustrerichimblaz’d,SeraphicarmsandTrophies:allthewhileSonorousmettalblowingMartialsounds:(540)AtwhichtheuniversalHostupsentAshoutthattoreHellsConcave,andbeyondFrightedtheReignofChaosandoldNight.AllinamomentthroughthegloomwereseenTenthousandBannersriseintotheAirWithOrientColourswaving:withthemroseAForresthugeofSpears:andthrongingHelmsAppear’d,andserriedShieldsinthickarrayOfdepthimmeasurable:AnontheymoveInperfectPhalanxtotheDorianmood(550)OfFlutesandsoftRecorders;suchasrais’dTohighthofnoblesttemperHero’sold

ArmingtoBattel,andinsteadofrageDeliberatevalourbreath’d,firmandunmov’dWithdreadofdeathtoflightorfoulretreat,NorwantingpowertomitigateandswageWithsolemntouches,troubl’dthoughts,andchaseAnguishanddoubtandfearandsorrowandpainFrommortalorimmortalminds.ThustheyBreathingunitedforcewithfixedthought(560)Mov’doninsilencetosoftPipesthatcharm’dThirpainfulstepso’retheburntsoyle;andnowAdvanc’tinview,theystand,ahorridFrontOfdreadfullengthanddazlingArms,inguiseOfWarriersoldwithorder’dSpearandShield,AwaitingwhatcommandthirmightyChiefHadtoimpose:HethroughthearmedFilesDartshisexperienc’teye,andsoontraverseThewholeBattalionviews,thirorderdue,ThirvisagesandstatureasofGods,(570)Thirnumberlasthesumms.AndnowhisheartDistendswithpride,andhardninginhisstrengthGlories:Forneversincecreatedman,Metsuchimbodiedforce,asnam’dwiththeseCouldmeritmorethenthatsmallinfantryWarr’donbyCranes:thoughalltheGiantbroodOfPhlegrawithth’HeroicRacewerejoyn’dThatfoughtatTheb’sandIlium,oneachsideMixtwithauxiliarGods;andwhatresoundsInFableorRomanceofUthersSon(580)

BegirtwithBritishandArmoricKnights;Andallwhosince,Baptiz’dorInfidelJoustedinAspramontorMontalban,

Damasco,orMarocco,orTrebisond,OrwhomBisertasentfromAfricshoreWhenCharlemainwithallhisPeeragefellByFontarabbia.ThusfarthesebeyondCompareofmortalprowess,yetobserv’dThirdreadcommander:heabovetherestInshapeandgestureproudlyeminent(590)StoodlikeaTowr;hisformhadyetnotlostAllherOriginalbrightness,norappear’dLessthenArchAngelruind,andth’excessOfGloryobscur’d:AswhentheSunnewris’nLooksthroughtheHorizontalmistyAirShornofhisBeams,orfrombehindtheMoonIndimEclipsdisastroustwilightshedsOnhalftheNations,andwithfearofchangePerplexesMonarchs.Dark’n’dso,yetshonAbovethemallth’ArchAngel:buthisface(600)DeepscarsofThunderhadintrencht,andcareSatonhisfadedcheek,butunderBrowesOfdauntlesscourage,andconsideratePrideWaitingrevenge:cruelhiseye,butcastSignsofremorseandpassiontobeholdThefellowsofhiscrime,thefollowersrather(Farotheroncebeheldinbliss)condemn’d

Forevernowtohavetheirlotinpain,MillionsofSpiritsforhisfaultamerc’tOfHeav’n,andfromEternalSplendorsflung(610)Forhisrevolt,yetfaithfullhowtheystood,ThirGlorywitherd.AswhenHeavensFireHathscath’dtheForrestOaks,orMountainPines,WithsingedtoptheirstatelygrowththoughbareStandsontheblastedHeath.Henowprepar’dTospeak;whereattheirdoubl’dRankstheybendFromWingtoWing,andhalfenclosehimroundWithallhisPeers:attentionheldthemmute.Thriceheassayd,andthriceinspightofscorn,TearssuchasAngelsweep,burstforth:atlast(620)Wordsinterwovewithsighsfoundouttheirway.OMyriadsofimmortalSpirits,OPowersMatchless,butwithth’Almighty,andthatstrifeWasnotinglorious,thoughth’eventwasdire,Asthisplacetestifies,andthisdirechangeHatefultoutter:butwhatpowerofmindForeseeingorpresaging,fromtheDepthOfknowledgepastorpresent,couldhavefear’d,HowsuchunitedforceofGods,howsuchAsstoodlikethese,couldeverknowrepulse?(630)Forwhocanyetbeleeve,thoughafterloss,ThatallthesepuissantLegions,whoseexileHathemptiedHeav’n,shallfailtore-ascendSelf-rais’d,andrepossesstheirnativeseat.Forme,bewitnessalltheHostofHeav’n,

Ifcounselsdifferent,ordangershun’dByme,havelostourhopes.ButhewhoreignsMonarchinHeav’n,tillthenasonesecureSatonhisThrone,upheldbyoldrepute,Consentorcustome,andhisRegalState(640)Putforthatfull,butstillhisstrengthconceal’d,Whichtemptedourattempt,andwroughtourfall.Henceforthhismightweknow,andknowourownSoasnoteithertoprovoke,ordreadNewwarr,provok’t;ourbetterpartremainsToworkinclosedesign,byfraudorguileWhatforceeffectednot:thathenolessAtlengthfromusmayfind,whoovercomesByforce,hathovercomebuthalfhisfoe.SpacemayproducenewWorlds;whereofsorife(650)TherewentafameinHeav’nthatheerelongIntendedtocreate,andthereinplantAgeneration,whomhischoiceregardShouldfavourequaltotheSonsofHeaven:Thither,ifbuttoprie,shallbeperhapsOurfirsteruption,thitherorelsewhere:ForthisInfernalPitshallneverholdCælestialSpiritsinBondage,north’AbyssLongunderdarknesscover.ButthesethoughtsFullCounselmustmature:Peaceisdespaird,(660)ForwhocanthinkSubmission?Warrthen,WarrOpenorunderstoodmustberesolv’d.Hespake:andtoconfirmhiswords,out-flew

Millionsofflamingswords,drawnfromthethighsOfmightyCherubim;thesuddenblazeFarroundillumin’dhell:highlytheyrag’dAgainsttheHighest,andfiercewithgraspedarmsClash’dontheirsoundingShieldsthedinofwar,HurlingdefiancetowardthevaultofHeav’n.TherestoodaHillnotfarwhosegrieslytop(670)Belch’dfireandrowlingsmoak;therestentireShonwithaglossiescurff,undoubtedsignThatinhiswombwashidmetallicOre,TheworkofSulphur.Thitherwing’dwithspeedAnumerousBrigadhasten’d.AswhenbandsOfPionerswithSpadeandPickaxearm’dForeruntheRoyalCamp,totrenchaField,OrcastaRampart.Mammonledthemon,Mammon,theleasterectedSpiritthatfellFromheav’n,forev’ninheav’nhislooksandthoughts(680)Werealwaysdownwardbent,admiringmoreTherichesofHeav’nspavement,trod’nGold,Thenaughtdivineorholyelseenjoy’dInvisionbeatific:byhimfirstMenalso,andbyhissuggestiontaught,Ransack’dtheCenter,andwithimpioushandsRifl’dthebowelsofthirmotherEarthForTreasuresbetterhid.SoonhadhiscrewOp’ndintotheHillaspaciouswoundAnddig’doutribsofGold.Letnoneadmire(690)

ThatrichesgrowinHell;thatsoylemaybestDeservethepreciousbane.AndhereletthoseWhoboastinmortalthings,andwond’ringtellOfBabel,andtheworksofMemphianKingsLearnhowthirgreatestMonumentsofFame,AndStrengthandArtareeasilyoutdoneBySpiritsreprobate,andinanhourWhatinanagetheywithincessanttoyleAndhandsinnumerablescarceperform.NighonthePlaininmanycellsprepar’d,(700)ThatunderneathhadveinsofliquidfireSluc’dfromtheLake,asecondmultitudeWithwondrousArtfoundedthemassieOre,Severingeachkinde,andscum’dtheBulliondross:Athirdassoonhadform’dwithinthegroundAvariousmould,andfromtheboylingcellsBystrangeconveyancefill’deachhollownook,AsinanOrganfromoneblastofwindTomanyarowofPipesthesound-boardbreaths.AnonoutoftheearthaFabrickhuge(710)RoselikeanExhalation,withthesoundOfDulcetSymphoniesandvoicessweet,BuiltlikeaTemple,wherePilastersroundWereset,andDoricpillarsoverlaidWithGoldenArchitrave;nordidtherewantCorniceorFreeze,withbossySculpturesgrav’n,TheRoofwasfrettedGold.NotBabilon,NorgreatAlcairosuchmagnificence

Equal’dinallthirglories,toinshrineBelusorSerapisthirGods,orseat(720)ThirKings,whenÆgyptwithAssyriastroveInwealthandluxurie.Th’ascendingpileStoodfixtherstatelyhighth,andstraitthedoresOp’ningthirbrazenfouldsdiscoverwideWithin,heramplespaces,o’rethesmoothAndlevelpavement:fromthearchedroofPendantbysuttleMagicmanyarowOfStarryLampsandblazingCressetsfedWithNaphthaandAsphaltusyeildedlightAsfromasky.Thehastymultitude(730)Admiringenter’d,andtheworksomepraiseAndsometheArchitect:hishandwasknownInHeav’nbymanyaTowredstructurehigh,WhereScepter’dAngelsheldthirresidence,AndsatasPrinces,whomthesupremeKingExaltedtosuchpower,andgavetorule,EachinhisHierarchie,theOrdersbright.Norwashisnameunheardorunador’dInancientGreece;andinAusonianlandMencall’dhimMulciber;andhowhefell(740)FromHeav’n,theyfabl’d,thrownbyangryJoveSheero’retheChrystalBattlements:fromMornToNoonhefell,fromNoontodewyEve,ASummersday;andwiththesettingSunDroptfromtheZenithlikeafallingStar,OnLemnosth’ÆgeanIle:thustheyrelate,

Erring;forhewiththisrebelliousroutFelllongbefore;noraughtavail’dhimnowTohavebuiltinHeav’nhighTowrs;nordidhescapeByallhisEngins,butwasheadlongsent(750)Withhisindustriouscrewtobuildinhell.MeanwhilethewingedHaraldsbycommandOfSovranpower,withawfulCeremonyAndTrumpetssoundthroughouttheHostproclaimAsolemnCouncelforthwithtobeheldAtPandæmonium,thehighCapitalOfSatanandhisPeers:thirsummonscall’dFromeveryBandandsquaredRegimentByplaceorchoicetheworthiest;theyanonWithhundredsandwiththousandstroopingcame(760)Attended:allaccesswasthrong’d,theGatesAndPorcheswide,butchiefthespaciousHall(Thoughlikeacover’dfield,whereChampionsboldWontrideinarm’d,andattheSoldanschairDefi’dthebestofPanimchivalryTomortalcombatorcarreerwithLance)Thickswarm’d,bothonthegroundandintheair,Brushtwiththehissofrusslingwings.AsBeesInspringtime,whentheSunwithTaurusrides,PoureforththirpopulousyouthabouttheHive(770)Inclusters;theyamongfreshdewsandflowersFlietoandfro,oronthesmoothedPlank,ThesuburbofthirStraw-builtCittadel,

Newrub’dwithBaume,expatiateandconferThirStateaffairs.SothicktheaeriecrowdSwarm’dandwerestraitn’d;tilltheSignalgiv’n.Beholdawonder!theybutnowwhoseemdInbignesstosurpassEarthsGiantSonsNowlessthensmallestDwarfs,innarrowroomThrongnumberless,likethatPigmeanRace(780)BeyondtheIndianMount,orFaerieElves,WhosemidnightRevels,byaForrestsideOrFountainsomebelatedPeasantsees,Ordreamshesees,whileoverheadtheMoonSitsArbitress,andneerertotheEarthWheelsherpalecourse,theyonthirmirthanddanceIntent,withjocondMusiccharmhisear;Atoncewithjoyandfearhisheartrebounds.ThusincorporealSpiritstosmallestformsReduc’dthirshapesimmense,andwereatlarge,(790)ThoughwithoutnumberstillamidsttheHallOfthatinfernalCourt.ButfarwithinAndinthirowndimensionslikethemselvesThegreatSeraphicLordsandCherubimIncloserecessandsecretconclavesatAthousandDemy-Godsongoldenseats,Frequentandfull.AftershortsilencethenAndsummonsread,thegreatconsultbegan.

TheEndoftheFirstBook.

Book II

TheArgument

TheConsultationbegun,SatandebateswhetheranotherBattelbetobehazardedfortherecoveryof Heaven:someadviseit,othersdissuade:Athirdproposalisprefer’d,mention’d

beforebySatan,tosearchthetruthof thatProphesieorTraditioninHeavenconcerninganotherworld, and another kind of creature equal or notmuchinferiour to themselves,

aboutthistimetobecreated:Thirdoubtwhoshallbesentonthisdifficultsearch:Satanthir chief undertakes alone the voyage, is honourd and applauded. The Councel thus

ended,therestbetakethemseveralwayesandtoseveralimployments,asthirinclinations

lead them, to entertain the time tillSatanreturn.He passes on his journey toHellGates, finds them shut, andwho sat there to guard them, bywhomat length they are

op’nd,anddiscovertohimthegreatGulf betweenHellandHeaven;withwhatdifficulty

hepasses through,directedbyChaos,thePowerof thatplace, to the sightof thisnewWorldwhichhesought.

HighonaThroneofRoyalState,whichfarOutshonthewealthofOrmusandofInd,OrwherethegorgeousEastwithrichesthandShowrsonherKingsBarbaricPearlandGold,Satanexaltedsat,bymeritrais’dTothatbademinence;andfromdespairThushighupliftedbeyondhope,aspires

Beyondthushigh,insatiatetopursueVainWarrwithHeav’n,andbysuccessuntaughtHisproudimaginationsthusdisplaid.(10)PowersandDominions,DeitiesofHeav’n,ForsincenodeepwithinhergulfcanholdImmortalvigor,thoughopprestandfall’n,IgivenotHeav’nforlost.FromthisdescentCelestialvertuesrising,willappearMoregloriousandmoredreadthenfromnofall,Andtrustthemselvestofearnosecondfate:Meethoughjustright,andthefixtLawsofHeav’nDidfirstcreateyourLeader,nextfreechoice,Withwhatbesides,inCounselorinFight,(20)Hathbinachievdofmerit,yetthislossThusfarratleastrecover’d,hathmuchmoreEstablishtinasafeunenviedThroneYieldedwithfullconsent.ThehappierstateInHeav’n,whichfollowsdignity,mightdrawEnvyfromeachinferior;butwhohereWillenvywhomthehighestplaceexposesFormosttostandagainsttheThunderersaimeYourbulwark,andcondemnstogreatestshareOfendlesspain?wherethereisthennogood(30)Forwhichtostrive,nostrifecangrowupthereFromFaction;fornonesurewillclaiminHellPrecedence,none,whoseportionissosmallOfpresentpain,thatwithambitiousmindWillcovetmore.Withthisadvantagethen

Tounion,andfirmFaith,andfirmaccord,MorethencanbeinHeav’n,wenowreturnToclaimourjustinheritanceofold,SurertoprosperthenprosperityCouldhaveassur’dus;andbywhatbestway,(40)WhetherofopenWarrorcovertguile,Wenowdebate;whocanadvise,mayspeak.Heceas’d,andnexthimMoloc,Scepter’dKingStoodup,thestrongestandthefiercestSpiritThatfoughtinHeav’n;nowfiercerbydespair:Histrustwaswithth’Eternaltobedeem’dEqualinstrength,andratherthenbelessCar’dnottobeatall;withthatcarelostWentallhisfear:ofGod,orHell,orworseHereck’dnot,andthesewordsthereafterspake.(50)MysentenceisforopenWarr:OfWiles,Moreunexpert,Iboastnot:themletthoseContrivewhoneed,orwhentheyneed,notnow.Forwhiletheysitcontriving,shalltherest,MillionsthatstandinArms,andlongingwaitTheSignaltoascend,sitlingringhereHeav’nsfugitives,andforthirdwellingplaceAcceptthisdarkopprobriousDenofshame,ThePrisonofhisTyrannywhoReignsByourdelay?no,letusratherchoose(60)Arm’dwithHellflamesandfuryallatonceO’reHeav’nshighTowrstoforceresistlessway,TurningourTorturesintohorridArms

AgainsttheTorturer;whentomeetthenoiseOfhisAlmightyEnginheshallhearInfernalThunder,andforLightningseeBlackfireandhorrorshotwithequalrageAmonghisAngels;andhisThroneitselfMixtwithTartareanSulphur,andstrangefire,HisowninventedTorments.Butperhaps(70)ThewayseemsdifficultandsteeptoscaleWithuprightwingagainstahigherfoe.Letsuchbethinkthem,ifthesleepydrenchOfthatforgetfulLakebenummnotstill,ThatinourpropermotionweascendUptoournativeseat:descentandfallTousisadverse.WhobutfeltoflateWhenthefierceFoehungonourbrok’nRearInsulting,andpursu’dusthroughtheDeep,Withwhatcompulsionandlaboriousflight(80)Wesunkthuslow?Th’ascentiseasiethen;Th’eventisfear’d;shouldweagainprovokeOurstronger,someworsewayhiswrathmayfindToourdestruction:iftherebeinHellFeartobeworsedestroy’d:whatcanbeworseThentodwellhere,driv’noutfrombliss,condemn’dInthisabhorreddeeptoutterwoe;WherepainofunextinguishablefireMustexerciseuswithouthopeofendTheVassalsofhisanger,whentheScourge(90)

Inexorably,andthetorturinghoureCallsustoPenance?Moredestroy’dthenthusWeshouldbequiteabolishtandexpire.Whatfearwethen?whatdoubtwetoincenseHisutmostire?whichtothehighthenrag’d,Willeitherquiteconsumeus,andreduceTonothingthisessential,happierfarrThenmiserabletohaveeternalbeing:OrifoursubstancebeindeedDivine,Andcannotceasetobe,weareatworst(100)Onthissidenothing;andbyproofwefeelOurpowersufficienttodisturbhisHeav’n,AndwithperpetualinrodestoAllarme,Thoughinaccessible,hisfatalThrone:WhichifnotVictoryisyetRevenge.Heendedfrowning,andhislookdenounc’dDesperaterevenge,andBatteldangerousTolessthenGods.Onth’othersideuproseBelial,inactmoregracefulandhumane;AfairerpersonlostnotHeav’n;heseemd(110)Fordignitycompos’dandhighexploit:Butallwasfalseandhollow;thoughhisTongueDroptManna,andcouldmaketheworseappearThebetterreason,toperplexanddashMaturestCounsels:forhisthoughtswerelow;Toviceindustrious,buttoNoblerdeedsTimorousandslothful:yethepleas’dtheear,Andwithperswasiveaccentthusbegan.

IshouldbemuchforopenWarr,OPeers,Asnotbehindinhate;ifwhatwasurg’d(120)MainreasontopersuadeimmediateWarr,Didnotdisswadememost,andseemtocastOminousconjectureonthewholesuccess:WhenhewhomostexcelsinfactofArms,InwhathecounselsandinwhatexcelsMistrustful,groundshiscourageondespairAndutterdissolution,asthescopeOfallhisaim,aftersomedirerevenge.First,whatRevenge?theTowrsofHeav’narefill’dWithArmedwatch,thatrenderallaccess(130)Impregnable;oftontheborderingDeepEncampthirLegions,orwithobscurewingScoutfarrandwideintotheRealmofnight,Scorningsurprize.OrcouldwebreakourwayByforce,andatourheelsallHellshouldriseWithblackestInsurrection,toconfoundHeav’nspurestLight,yetourgreatEnemieAllincorruptiblewouldonhisThroneSitunpolluted,andth’EtherealmouldIncapableofstainwouldsoonexpel(140)Hermischief,andpurgeoffthebaserfireVictorious.Thusrepuls’d,ourfinalhopeIsflatdespair:wemustexasperateTh’AlmightyVictortospendallhisrage,Andthatmustendus,thatmustbeourcure,Tobenomore;sadcure;forwhowouldloose,

Thoughfullofpain,thisintellectualbeing,ThosethoughtsthatwanderthroughEternity,Toperishrather,swallowdupandlostInthewidewombofuncreatednight,(150)Devoidofsenseandmotion?andwhoknows,Letthisbegood,whetherourangryFoeCangiveit,orwillever?howhecanIsdoubtful;thatheneverwillissure.Willhe,sowise,letlooseatoncehisire,Belikethroughimpotence,orunaware,TogivehisEnemiesthirwish,andendTheminhisanger,whomhisangersavesTopunishendless?whereforeceasewethen?SaytheywhocounselWarr,wearedecreed,(160)Reserv’danddestin’dtoEternalwoe;Whateverdoing,whatcanwesuffermore,Whatcanwesufferworse?isthisthenworst,Thussitting,thusconsulting,thusinArms?Whatwhenwefledamain,pursu’dandstrookWithHeav’nsafflictingThunder,andbesoughtTheDeeptoshelterus?thisHellthenseem’dArefugefromthosewounds:orwhenwelayChain’dontheburningLake?thatsurewasworse.Whatifthebreaththatkindl’dthosegrimfires(170)Awak’dshouldblowthemintosevenfoldrageAndplungeusintheflames?orfromaboveShouldintermittedvengeanceArmeagain

Hisredrighthandtoplagueus?whatifallHerstoreswereopen’d,andthisFirmamentOfHellshouldspoutherCataractsofFire,Impendenthorrors,threatninghideousfallOnedayuponourheads;whileweperhapsDesigningorexhortinggloriousWarr,CaughtinafierieTempestshallbehurl’d(180)Eachonhisrocktransfixt,thesportandpreyOfrackingwhirlwinds,orforeversunkUnderyonboylingOcean,wraptinChains;Theretoconversewitheverlastinggroans,Unrespited,unpitied,unrepreevd,Agesofhopelessend;thiswouldbeworse.Warrtherefore,openorconceal’d,alikeMyvoicedisswades;forwhatcanforceorguileWithhim,orwhodeceivehismind,whoseeyeViewsallthingsatoneview?hefromheav’nshighth(190)Alltheseourmotionsvain,seesandderides;NotmoreAlmightytoresistourmightThenwisetofrustrateallourplotsandwiles.Shallwethenlivethusvile,theraceofHeav’nThustrampl’d,thusexpell’dtosufferhereChainsandtheseTorments?betterthesethenworseBymyadvice;sincefateinevitableSubduesus,andOmnipotentDecreeTheVictorswill.Tosuffer,astodoe,Ourstrengthisequal,northeLawunjust(200)Thatsoordains:thiswasatfirstresolv’d,

Ifwewerewise,againstsogreatafoeContending,andsodoubtfulwhatmightfall.Ilaugh,whenthosewhoattheSpearareboldAndvent’rous,ifthatfailthem,shrinkandfearWhatyettheyknowmustfollow,toendureExile,orignominy,orbonds,orpain,ThesentenceofthirConquerour:ThisisnowOurdoom;whichifwecansustainandbear,OurSupreamFoeintimemaymuchremit(210)Hisanger,andperhapsthusfarrremov’dNotmindusnotoffending,satisfi’dWithwhatispunish’t;whencetheseragingfiresWillslack’n,ifhisbreathstirnotthirflames.OurpureressencethenwillovercomeThirnoxiousvapour,orenur’dnotfeel,Orchang’datlength,andtotheplaceconformdIntemperandinnature,willreceiveFamiliarthefierceheat,andvoidofpain;Thishorrorwillgrowmilde,thisdarknesslight,(220)Besideswhathopethenever-endingflightOffuturedaysmaybring,whatchance,whatchangeWorthwaiting,sinceourpresentlotappeersForhappythoughbutill,forillnotworst,Ifweprocurenottoourselvesmorewoe.ThusBelialwithwordscloath’dinreasonsgarbCounsell’dignobleease,andpeacefulsloath,Notpeace:andafterhimthusMammonspake.EithertodisinthronetheKingofHeav’n

Wewarr,ifwarrbebest,ortoregain(230)Ourownrightlost:himtounthronewethenMayhopewheneverlastingFateshallyeildTofickleChance,andChaosjudgethestrife:TheformervaintohopearguesasvainThelatter:forwhatplacecanbeforusWithinHeav’nsbound,unlessHeav’nsLordsupreamWeoverpower?SupposeheshouldrelentAndpublishGracetoall,onpromisemadeOfnewSubjection;withwhateyescouldweStandinhispresencehumble,andreceive(240)StrictLawsimpos’d,tocelebratehisThroneWithwarbl’dHymns,andtohisGodheadsingForc’tHalleluiah’s;whileheLordlysitsOurenviedSovran,andhisAltarbreathesAmbrosialOdoursandAmbrosialFlowers,Ourservileofferings.ThismustbeourtaskInHeav’n,thisourdelight;howwearisomEternitysospentinworshippaidTowhomwehate.LetusnotthenpursueByforceimpossible,byleaveobtain’d(250)Unacceptable,thoughinHeav’n,ourstateOfsplendidvassalage,butratherseekOurowngoodfromourselves,andfromourownLivetoourselves,thoughinthisvastrecess,Free,andtononeaccountable,preferringHardlibertybeforetheeasieyoke

OfservilePomp.OurgreatnesswillappearThenmostconspicuous,whengreatthingsofsmall,Usefulofhurtful,prosperousofadverseWecancreate,andinwhatplacesoe’re(260)Thriveunderevil,andworkeaseoutofpainThroughlabourandendurance.ThisdeepworldOfdarknessdowedread?HowoftamidstThickcloudsanddarkdothHeav’nsall-rulingSireChoosetoreside,hisGloryunobscur’d,AndwiththeMajestyofdarknessroundCovershisThrone;fromwhencedeepthundersroarMust’ringthirrage,andHeav’nresemblesHell?Asheourdarkness,cannotwehisLightImitatewhenweplease?ThisDesartsoile(270)Wantsnotherhiddenlustre,GemmsandGold;Norwantweskillorart,fromwhencetoraiseMagnificence;andwhatcanHeav’nshewmore?OurtormentsalsomayinlengthoftimeBecomeourElements,thesepiercingFiresAssoftasnowsevere,ourtemperchang’dIntotheirtemper;whichmustneedsremoveThesensibleofpain.AllthingsinviteTopeacefulCounsels,andthesettl’dStateOforder,howinsafetybestwemay(280)Composeourpresentevils,withregardOfwhatweareandwhere,dismissingquiteAllthoughtsofWarr:yehavewhatIadvise.Hescarcehadfinisht,whensuchmurmurfilld

Th’Assembly,aswhenhollowRocksretainThesoundofblustringwinds,whichallnightlongHadrous’dtheSea,nowwithhoarsecadencelullSea-faringmenorewatcht,whoseBarkbychanceOrPinnaceanchorsinacraggyBayAftertheTempest:Suchapplausewasheard(290)AsMammonended,andhisSentencepleas’d,Advisingpeace:forsuchanotherFieldTheydreadedworsethenHell:somuchthefearOfThunderandtheSwordofMichael

Wroughtstillwithinthem;andnolessdesireTofoundthisnetherEmpire,whichmightriseBypollicy,andlongprocessoftime,InemulationoppositetoHeav’n.WhichwhenBëëlzebubperceiv’d,thenwhom,Satanexcept,nonehighersat,withgrave(300)Aspectherose,andinhisrisingseem’dAPillarofState;deeponhisFrontengravenDeliberationsatandpublickcare;AndPrincelycounselinhisfaceyetshon,Majestickthoughinruin:sagehestoodWithAtlanteanshouldersfittobearTheweightofmightiestMonarchies;hislookDrewaudienceandattentionstillasNightOrSummersNoon-tideair,whilethushespake.ThronesandImperialPowers,off-springofheav’n(310)EtherealVertues;ortheseTitlesnowMustwerenounce,andchangingstilebecall’d

PrincesofHell?forsothepopularvoteInclines,heretocontinue,andbuilduphereAgrowingEmpire;doubtless;whilewedream,AndknownotthattheKingofHeav’nhathdoom’dThisplaceourdungeon,notoursaferetreatBeyondhisPotentarm,toliveexemptFromHeav’nshighjurisdiction,innewLeagueBandedagainsthisThrone,buttoremaine(320)Instrictestbondage,thoughthusfarremov’d,Underth’inevitablecurb,reserv’dHiscaptivemultitude:Forhe,besureInheighthordepth,stillfirstandlastwillReignSoleKing,andofhisKingdomloosenopartByourrevolt,butoverHellextendHisEmpire,andwithIronScepterruleUshere,aswithhisGoldenthoseinHeav’n.WhatsitwethenprojectingpeaceandWarr?Warrhathdetermin’dus,andfoildwithloss(330)Irreparable;tearmsofpeaceyetnoneVoutsaf’torsought;forwhatpeacewillbegiv’nTousenslav’d,butcustodysevere,Andstripes,andarbitrarypunishmentInflicted?andwhatpeacecanwereturn,Buttoourpowerhostilityandhate,Untam’dreluctance,andrevengethoughslow,YeteverplottinghowtheConquerorleastMayreaphisconquest,andmayleastrejoyce

Indoingwhatwemostinsufferingfeel?(340)Norwilloccasionwant,norshallweneedWithdangerousexpeditiontoinvadeHeav’n,whosehighwallsfearnoassaultorSiege,OrambushfromtheDeep.WhatifwefindSomeeasierenterprize?Thereisaplace(IfancientandpropheticfameinHeav’nErrnot)anotherWorld,thehappyseatOfsomnewRacecall’dMan,aboutthistimeTobecreatedliketous,thoughlessInpowerandexcellence,butfavour’dmore(350)Ofhimwhorulesabove;sowashiswillPronounc’damongtheGods,andbyanOath,ThatshookHeav’nswholcircumference,confirm’d.Thitherletusbendallourthoughts,tolearnWhatcreaturesthereinhabit,ofwhatmould,Orsubstance,howendu’d,andwhatthirPower,Andwherethirweakness,howattemptedbest,Byforceorsuttlety:ThoughHeav’nbeshut,AndHeav’nshighArbitratorsitsecureInhisownstrength,thisplacemaylyeexpos’d(360)TheutmostborderofhisKingdom,leftTotheirdefencewhoholdit:hereperhapsSomadvantagiousactmaybeachiev’dBysuddenonset,eitherwithHellfireTowastehiswholeCreation,orpossessAllasourown,anddriveasweweredriven,Thepuniehabitants,orifnotdrive,

SeducethemtoourParty,thatthirGodMayprovethirfoe,andwithrepentinghandAbolishhisownworks.Thiswouldsurpass(370)Commonrevenge,andinterrupthisjoyInourConfusion,andourJoyupraiseInhisdisturbance;whenhisdarlingSonsHurl’dheadlongtopartakewithus,shallcurseThirfrailOriginals,andfadedbliss,Fadedsosoon.AdviseifthisbeworthAttempting,ortositindarknesshereHatchingvainEmpires.ThusBëëlzebubPleadedhisdevilishCounsel,firstdevis’dBySatan,andinpartpropos’d:forwhence,(380)ButfromtheAuthorofallillcouldSpringSodeepamalice,toconfoundtheraceOfmankindinoneroot,andEarthwithHellTomingleandinvolve,donealltospiteThegreatCreatour?ButthirspitestillservesHisglorytoaugment.ThebolddesignPleas’dhighlythoseinfernalStates,andjoySparkl’dinallthireyes;withfullassentTheyvote:whereathisspeechhethusrenews.Wellhaveyejudg’d,wellendedlongdebate,(390)SynodofGods,andliketowhatyeare,Greatthingsresolv’d;whichfromthelowestdeepWilloncemoreliftusup,inspightofFate,NeererourancientSeat;perhapsinviewOfthosebrightconfines,whencewithneighbouringArms

AndopportuneexcursionwemaychanceRe-enterHeav’n;orelseinsomemildeZoneDwellnotunvisitedofHeav’nsfairLightSecure,andatthebrightningOrientbeamPurgeoffthisgloom;thesoftdeliciousAir,(400)TohealthescarrofthesecorrosiveFiresShallbreathherbalme.ButfirstwhomshallwesendInsearchofthisnewworld,whomshallwefindSufficient?whoshalltemptwithwandringfeetThedarkunbottom’dinfiniteAbyssAndthroughthepalpableobscurefindoutHisuncouthway,orspreadhisaerieflightUpbornwithindefatigablewingsOverthevastabrupt,erehearriveThehappyIle;whatstrength,whatartcanthen(410)Suffice,orwhatevasionbearhimsafeThroughthestrictSenteriesandStationsthickOfAngelswatchinground?HerehehadneedAllcircumspection,andwenownolessChoiceinoursuffrage;foronwhomwesend,Theweightofallandourlasthoperelies.Thissaid,hesat;andexpectationheldHislooksuspence,awaitingwhoappeer’dTosecond,oroppose,orundertakeTheperilousattempt;butallsatmute,(420)Ponderingthedangerwithdeepthoughts;andeachInotherscount’nancereadhisowndismay

Astonisht:noneamongthechoiceandprimeOfthoseHeav’n-warringChampionscouldbefoundSohardieastoprofferoracceptAlonethedreadfulvoyage;tillatlastSatan,whomnowtranscendentgloryrais’dAbovehisfellows,withMonarchalprideConsciousofhighestworth,unmov’dthusspake.OProgenyofHeav’n,EmpyrealThrones,(430)WithreasonhathdeepsilenceanddemurrSeis’dus,thoughundismaid:longisthewayAndhard,thatoutofHellleadsuptolight;Ourprisonstrong,thishugeconvexofFire,Outrageoustodevour,immuresusroundNinefold,andgatesofburningAdamantBarr’doverusprohibitallegress.Thesepast,ifanypass,thevoidprofoundOfunessentialNightreceiveshimnextWidegaping,andwithutterlossofbeing(440)Threatenshim,plung’dinthatabortivegulf.Ifthencehescapeintowhateverworld,OrunknownRegion,whatremainshimlessThenunknowndangersandashardescape.ButIshouldillbecomethisThrone,OPeers,AndthisImperialSov’ranty,adorn’dWithsplendor,arm’dwithpower,ifaughtpropos’dAndjudg’dofpublicmoment,intheshapeOfdifficultyordangercoulddeterreMefromattempting.WhereforedoIassume(450)

TheseRoyalties,andnotrefusetoReign,RefusingtoacceptasgreatashareOfhazardasofhonour,duealikeTohimwhoReigns,andsomuchtohimdueOfhazardmore,asheabovetherestHighhonourdsits?GothereforemightyPowers,TerrorofHeav’n,thoughfall’n;intendathome,Whilehereshallbeourhome,whatbestmayeaseThepresentmisery,andrenderHellMoretollerable;iftherebecureorcharm(460)Torespiteordeceive,orslackthepainOfthisillMansion:intermitnowatchAgainstawakefulFoe,whileIabroadThroughalltheCoastsofdarkdestructionseekDeliveranceforusall:thisenterprizeNoneshallpartakewithme.ThussayingroseTheMonarch,andpreventedallreply,Prudent,leastfromhisresolutionrais’dOthersamongthechiefmightoffernow(Certaintoberefus’d)whatersttheyfeard;(470)Andsorefus’dmightinopinionstandHisRivals,winningcheapthehighreputeWhichhethroughhazardhugemustearn.ButtheyDreadednotmoreth’adventurethenhisvoiceForbidding;andatoncewithhimtheyrose;ThirrisingallatoncewasasthesoundOfThunderheardremote.TowardshimtheybendWithawfulreverenceprone;andasaGod

ExtollhimequaltothehighestinHeav’n:Norfail’dtheytoexpresshowmuchtheyprais’d,(480)Thatforthegeneralsafetyhedespis’dHisown:forneitherdotheSpiritsdamn’dLooseallthirvertue;leastbadmenshouldboastThirspeciousdeedsonearth,whichgloryexcites,Orcloseambitionvarnishto’rewithzeal.ThustheythirdoubtfulconsultationsdarkEndedrejoycinginthirmatchlessChief:AswhenfrommountaintopstheduskycloudsAscending,whiletheNorthwindsleeps,o’respreadHeav’nschearfulface,thelowringElement(490)Scowlsorethedark’ndlantskipSnow,orshowre;IfchancetheradiantSunwithfarewellsweetExtendhisev’ningbeam,thefieldsrevive,Thebirdsthirnotesrenew,andbleatingherdsAttestthirjoy,thathillandvalleyrings.Oshametomen!DevilwithDevildamn’dFirmconcordholds,menonelydisagreeOfCreaturesrational,thoughunderhopeOfheavenlyGrace;andGodproclaimingpeace,Yetliveinhatred,enmitie,andstrife(500)Amongthemselves,andleviecruelwarres,WastingtheEarth,eachothertodestroy:Asif(whichmightinduceustoaccord)Manhadnothellishfoesanowbesides,Thatdayandnightforhisdestructionwaite.

TheStygianCounselthusdissolv’d;andforthInordercamethegrandinfernalPeers:MidstcamethirmightyParamount,andseemdAloneth’AntagonistofHeav’n,norlessThenHellsdreadEmperourwithpompSupream,(510)AndGod-likeimitatedState;himroundAGlobeoffierieSeraphiminclos’dWithbrightimblazonrie,andhorrentArms.ThenofthirSessionendedtheybidcryWithTrumpetsregalsoundthegreatresult:TowardthefourwindsfourspeedyCherubimPuttothirmouthsthesoundingAlchymieByHaraldsvoiceexplain’d:thehollowAbyssHeardfarrandwide,andallthehostofHellWithdeafningshout,return’dthemloudacclaim.(520)Thencemoreateasethirmindsandsomwhatrais’dByfalsepresumptuoushope,therangedpowersDisband,andwandring,eachhisseveralwayPursues,asinclinationorsadchoiceLeadshimperplext,wherehemaylikeliestfindTrucetohisrestlessthoughts,andentertainTheirksomhours,tillhisgreatChiefreturn.PartonthePlain,orintheAirsublimeUponthewing,orinswiftRacecontend,Asatth’OlympianGamesorPythianfields;(530)PartcurbthirfierieSteeds,orshuntheGoalWithrapidwheels,orfrontedBrigadsform.AswhentowarnproudCitieswarrappears

Wag’dinthetroubl’dSkie,andArmiesrushToBattelintheClouds,beforeeachVanPricforththeAerieKnights,andcouchthirSpearsTillthickestLegionsclose;withfeatsofArmsFromeitherendofHeav’nthewelkinburns.OtherswithvastTyphœanragemorefellRendupbothRocksandHills,andridetheAir(540)Inwhirlwind;Hellscarceholdsthewildeuproar.AswhenAlcidesfromOeliaCrown’dWithconquest,feltth’envenom’drobe,andtoreThroughpainupbytherootsThessalianPines,AndLichasfromthetopofOetathrewIntoth’EuboicSea.Othersmoremilde,Retreatedinasilentvalley,singWithnotesAngelicaltomanyaHarpThirownHeroicdeedsandhaplessfallBydoomofBattel;andcomplainthatFate(550)FreeVertueshouldenthralltoForceorChance.ThirSongwaspartial,buttheharmony(WhatcoulditlesswhenSpiritsimmortalsing?)SuspendedHell,andtookwithravishmentThethrongingaudience.Indiscoursemoresweet(ForEloquencetheSoul,SongcharmstheSense,)OthersapartsatonaHillretir’d,Inthoughtsmoreelevate,andreason’dhighOfProvidence,Foreknowledge,Will,andFate,FixtFate,freewill,foreknowledgeabsolute,(560)Andfoundnoend,inwandringmazeslost.

Ofgoodandevilmuchtheyargu’dthen,Ofhappinessandfinalmisery,PassionandApathie,andgloryandshame,Vainwisdomall,andfalsePhilosophie:YetwithapleasingsorceriecouldcharmPainforawhileoranguish,andexciteFallacioushope,orarmth’obduredbrestWithstubbornpatienceaswithtriplesteel.AnotherpartinSquadronsandgrossBands,(570)OnboldadventuretodiscoverwideThatdismalworld,ifanyClimeperhapsMightyieldthemeasierhabitation,bendFourwaysthirflyingMarch,alongtheBanksOffourinfernalRiversthatdisgorgeIntotheburningLakethirbalefulstreams;AbhorredStyxthefloodofdeadlyhate,SadAcheronofsorrow,blackanddeep;Cocytus,nam’doflamentationloudHeardontherufulstream;fiercePhlegeton(580)Whosewavesoftorrentfireinflamewithrage.Farrofffromtheseaslowandsilentstream,LethetheRiverofOblivionroulesHerwatrieLabyrinth,whereofwhodrinks,Forthwithhisformerstateandbeingforgets,Forgetsbothjoyandgrief,pleasureandpain.BeyondthisfloodafrozenContinentLiesdarkandwilde,beatwithperpetualstorms

OfWhirlwindanddireHail,whichonfirmlandThawsnot,butgathersheap,andruinseems(590)Ofancientpile;allelsedeepsnowandice,AgulfprofoundasthatSerbonianBogBetwixtDamiataandMountCasiusold,WhereArmieswholehavesunk:theparchingAirBurnsfrore,andcoldperformsth’effectofFire.Thitherbyharpy-footedFurieshail’d,Atcertainrevolutionsallthedamn’dArebrought:andfeelbyturnsthebitterchangeOffierceextreams,extreamsbychangemorefierce,FromBedsofragingFiretostarveinIce(600)ThirsoftEtherealwarmth,andtheretopineImmovable,infixt,andfrozenround,Periodsoftime,thencehurriedbacktofire.TheyferryoverthisLetheanSoundBothtoandfro,thirsorrowtoaugment,Andwishandstruggle,astheypass,toreachThetemptingstream,withonesmalldroptolooseInsweetforgetfulnessallpainandwoe,Allinonemoment,andsoneerthebrink;Butfatewithstands,andtoopposeth’attempt(610)MedusawithGorgonianterrorguardsTheFord,andofitselfthewaterfliesAlltasteoflivingwight,asonceitfledThelipofTantalus.ThusrovingonInconfus’dmarchforlorn,th’adventrousBandsWithshuddringhorrorpale,andeyesagast

View’dfirstthirlamentablelot,andfoundNorest:throughmanyadarkanddrearieVaileTheypass’d,andmanyaRegiondolorous,O’ermanyaFrozen,manyaFierieAlpe,(620)Rocks,Caves,Lakes,Fens,Bogs,Dens,andshadesofdeath,AUniverseofdeath,whichGodbycurseCreatedevil,forevilonlygood,Wherealllifedies,deathlives,andNaturebreeds,Perverse,allmonstrous,allprodigiousthings,Abominable,inutterable,andworseThenFablesyethavefeign’d,orfearconceiv’d,GorgonsandHydra’s,andChimera’sdire.MeanwhiletheAdversaryofGodandMan,Satanwiththoughtsinflam’dofhighestdesign,(630)Putsonswiftwings,andtowardtheGatesofHellExploreshissolitaryflight;somtimesHescourstherighthandcoast,somtimestheleft,NowshaveswithlevelwingtheDeep,thensoaresUptothefieryConcavetouringhigh.AswhenfarroffatSeaaFleetdescri’dHangsintheClouds,byÆquinoctialWindsClosesailingfromBengala,ortheIlesOfTernateandTidore,whenceMerchantsbringThirspicieDrugs:theyonthetradingFlood(640)ThroughthewideEthiopiantotheCapePlystemmingnightlytowardthePole.Soseem’dFarrofftheflyingFiend:atlastappeerHellboundshighreachingtothehorridRoof,

AndthricethreefoldtheGates;threefoldswereBrass,ThreeIron,threeofAdamantineRock,Impenitrable,impal’dwithcirclingfire,Yetunconsum’d.BeforetheGatestheresatOneithersideaformidableshape;Theoneseem’dWomantothewaste,andfair,(650)ButendedfoulinmanyascalyfouldVoluminousandvast,aSerpentarm’dWithmortalsting:abouthermiddleroundAcryofHellHoundsneverceasingbark’dWithwideCerberianmouthsfullloud,andrungAhideousPeal:yet,whentheylist,wouldcreep,Ifaughtdisturb’dthirnoyse,intoherwoomb,Andkennelthere,yettherestillbark’dandhowl’dWithinunseen.FarrlessabhorrdthantheseVex’dScyllabathingintheSeathatparts(660)CalabriafromthehoarseTrinacrianshore:NoruglierfollowtheNight-Hag,whencall’dInsecret,ridingthroughtheAirshecomesLur’dwiththesmellofinfantblood,todanceWithLaplandWitches,whilethelabouringMoonEclipsesatthircharms.Theothershape,Ifshapeitmightbecall’dthatshapehadnoneDistinguishableinmember,joynt,orlimb,Orsubstancemightbecall’dthatshadowseem’d,Foreachseem’deither;blackitstoodasNight,(670)FierceastenFuries,terribleasHell,

AndshookadreadfulDart;whatseem’dhisheadThelikenessofaKinglyCrownhadon.Satanwasnowathand,andfromhisseatTheMonstermovingonwardcameasfastWithhorridstrides,Helltrembledashestrode.Th’undauntedFiendwhatthismightbeadmir’d,Admir’d,notfear’d;GodandhisSonexcept,Createdthingnaughtvalu’dhenorshun’dAndwithdisdainfullookthusfirstbegan.(680)Whenceandwhatartthou,execrableshape,Thatdar’st,thoughgrimandterrible,advanceThymiscreatedFrontathwartmywayToyonderGates?throughthemImeantopass,Thatbeassur’d,withoutleaveasktofthee:Retire,ortastethyfolly,andlearnbyproof,Hell-born,nottocontendwithSpiritsofHeav’n.TowhomtheGoblinfullofwrauthreply’d,ArtthouthatTraitorAngel,artthouhee,WhofirstbrokepeaceinHeav’nandFaith,tillthen(690)Unbrok’n,andinproudrebelliousArmsDrewafterhimthethirdpartofHeav’nsSonsConjur’dagainstthehighest,forwhichbothThouAndtheyoutcastfromGod,areherecondemn’dTowasteEternaldaiesinwoeandpain?Andreck’n’stthouthyselfwithSpiritsofHeav’n,Hell-doomd,andbreath’stdefiancehereandscornWhereIreignKing,andtoenragetheemore,ThyKingandLord?Backtothypunishment,

Falsefugitive,andtothyspeedaddwings,(700)LeastwithawhipofScorpionsIpursueThylingring,orwithonestrokeofthisDartStrangehorrorseisethee,andpangsunfeltbefore.Sospakethegrieslieterrour,andinshape,Sospeakingandsothreatning,grewtenfoldMoredreadfulanddeform:onth’othersideIncenc’twithindignationSatanstoodUnterrifi’d,andlikeaCometburn’d,ThatfiresthelengthofOphiucushugeInth’ArtickSky,andfromhishorridhair(710)ShakesPestilenceandWarr.EachattheHeadLevel’dhisdeadlyaime;thirfatallhandsNosecondstrokeintend,andsuchafrownEachcastatth’other,aswhentwoblackCloudsWithHeav’nsArtilleryfraught,comerattlingonOvertheCaspian,thenstandfronttofrontHov’ringaspace,tillWindsthesignalblowTojointhirdarkEncounterinmidair:SofrowndthemightyCombatants,thatHellGrewdarkeratthirfrown,somatchttheystood;(720)ForneverbutoncemorewaseitherlikeTomeetsogreatafoe:andnowgreatdeedsHadbeenachiev’d,whereofallHellhadrung,HadnottheSnakieSorceressthatsatFastbyHellGate,andkeptthefatalKey,Ris’n,andwithhideousoutcryrush’dbetween.OFather,whatintendsthyhand,shecry’d,

AgainstthyonlySon?WhatfuryOSon,PossessestheetobendthatmortalDartAgainstthyFathershead?andknow’stforwhom;(730)ForhimwhositsaboveandlaughsthewhileAttheeordain’dhisdrudge,toexecuteWhate’rehiswrath,whichhecallsJustice,bids,Hiswrathwhichonedaywilldestroyyeboth.Shespake,andatherwordsthehellishPestForbore,thenthesetoherSatanreturn’d:Sostrangethyoutcry,andthywordssostrangeThouinterposest,thatmysuddenhandPreventedsparestotelltheeyetbydeedsWhatitintends;tillfirstIknowofthee,(740)Whatthingthouart,thusdouble-form’d,andwhyInthisinfernalVailefirstmetthoucall’stMeFather,andthatFantasmcall’stmySon?Iknowtheenot,noreversawtillnowSightmoredetestablethenhimandthee.T’whomthusthePortressofHellGatereply’d;Hastthouforgotmethen,anddoIseemNowinthineeyesofoul,oncedeemdsofairInHeav’n,whenatth’Assembly,andinsightOfalltheSeraphimwiththeecombin’d(750)InboldconspiracyagainstHeav’nsKing,AllonasuddenmiserablepainSurpris’dthee,dimthineeyes,anddizzieswummIndarkness,whilethyheadflamesthickandfast

Threwforth,tillontheleftsideop’ningwide,Likesttotheeinshapeandcount’nancebright,ThenshiningHeav’nlyfair,aGoddessarm’dOutofthyheadIsprung;amazementseis’dAllth’HostofHeav’n;backtheyrecoildaffraidAtfirst,andcall’dmeSin,andforaSign(760)Portentousheldme;butfamiliargrown,Ipleas’d,andwithattractivegraceswonThemostaverse,theechiefly,whofulloftThyselfinmethyperfectimageviewingBecam’stenamour’d,andsuchjoythoutook’stWithmeinsecret,thatmywombconceiv’dAgrowingburden.MeanwhileWarrarose,AndfieldswerefoughtinHeav’n;whereinremaind(Forwhatcouldelse)toourAlmightyFoeCleerVictory,toourpartlossandrout(770)ThroughalltheEmpyrean:downtheyfellDriv’nheadlongfromthePitchofHeaven,downIntothisDeep,andinthegeneralfallIalso;atwhichtimethispowerfulKeyIntomyhandwasgiv’n,withchargetokeepTheseGatesforevershut,whichnonecanpassWithoutmyop’ning.PensivehereIsatAlone,butlongIsatnot,tillmywombPregnantbythee,andnowexcessivegrownProdigiousmotionfeltandruefulthroes.(780)AtlastthisodiousoffspringwhomthouseestThineownbegotten,breakingviolentway

Torethroughmyentrails,thatwithfearandpainDistorted,allmynethershapethusgrewTransform’d:buthemyinbredenemieForthissu’d,brandishinghisfatalDartMadetodestroy:Ifled,andcry’doutDeath;Helltrembl’datthehideousName,andsigh’dFromallherCaves,andbackresoundedDeath.Ifled,buthepursu’d(thoughmore,itseems,(790)Inflam’dwithlustthenrage)andswifterfar,Meovertookhismotheralldismaid,AndinembracesforcibleandfouleIngendringwithme,ofthatrapebegotTheseyellingMonstersthatwithceaslesscrySurroundme,asthousawst,hourlyconceiv’dAndhourlyborn,withsorrowinfiniteTome,forwhentheylistintothewombThatbredthemtheyreturn,andhowleandgnawMyBowels,theirrepast;thenburstingforth(800)Afreshwithconsciousterroursvexmeround,ThatrestorintermissionnoneIfind.BeforemineeyesinoppositionsitsGrimDeathmySonandfoe,whosetsthemon,AndmehisParentwouldfullsoondevourForwantofotherprey,butthatheknowsHisendwithmineinvolvd;andknowsthatIShouldproveabitterMorsel,andhisbane,Wheneverthatshallbe;soFatepronounc’d.ButthouOFather,Iforewarnthee,shun(810)

Hisdeadlyarrow;neithervainlyhopeTobeinvulnerableinthosebrightArms,Thoughtemper’dheav’nly,forthatmortaldint,Savehewhoreignsabove,nonecanresist.Shefinish’d,andthesuttleFiendhisloreSoonlearnd,nowmilder,andthusanswerdsmooth.DearDaughter,sincethouclaim’stmeforthySire,AndmyfairSonhereshowstme,thedearpledgeOfdalliancehadwiththeeinHeav’n,andjoysThensweet,nowsadtomention,throughdirechange(820)Befallnusunforeseen,unthoughtof,knowIcomenoenemie,buttosetfreeFromoutthisdarkanddismalhouseofpain,Bothhimandthee,andalltheheav’nlyHostOfSpiritsthatinourjustpretensesarm’dFellwithusfromonhigh:fromthemIgoThisuncoutherrandsole,andoneforallMyselfexpose,withlonelystepstotreadTh’unfoundeddeep,andthroughthevoidimmenseTosearchwithwandringquestaplaceforetold(830)Shouldbe,and,byconcurringsigns,erenowCreatedvastandround,aplaceofblissInthePourlieuesofHeav’n,andthereinplac’tAraceofupstartCreatures,tosupplyPerhapsourvacantroom,thoughmoreremov’d,LeastHeav’nsurcharg’dwithpotentmultitudeMighthaptomovenewbroiles:Bethisoraught

Thenthismoresecretnowdesign’d,IhasteToknow,andthisonceknown,shallsoonreturn,AndbringyetotheplacewhereThouandDeath(840)Shalldwellatease,andupanddownunseenWingsilentlythebuxomAir,imbalm’dWithodours;thereyeshallbefedandfill’dImmeasurably,allthingsshallbeyourprey.Heceas’d,forbothseem’dhighlypleasd,andDeathGrinndhorribleagastlysmile,tohearHisfamineshouldbefill’d,andblesthismaweDestin’dtothatgoodhour:nolessrejoyc’dHismotherbad,andthusbespakeherSire.ThekeyofthisinfernalPitbydue,(850)AndbycommandofHeav’nsall-powerfulKingIkeep,byhimforbiddentounlockTheseAdamantineGates;againstallforceDeathreadystandstointerposehisdart,Fearlesstobeo’rematchtbylivingmight.ButwhatowItohiscommandsaboveWhohatesme,andhathhitherthrustmedownIntothisgloomofTartarusprofound,TositinhatefulOfficehereconfin’d,InhabitantofHeav’n,andheav’nlie-born,(860)Hereinperpetualagonieandpain,WithterrorsandwithclamorscompasstroundOfmineownbrood,thatonmybowelsfeed:ThouartmyFather,thoumyAuthor,thouMybeinggav’stme;whomshouldIobey

Butthee,whomfollow?thouwiltbringmesoonTothatnewworldoflightandbliss,amongTheGodswholiveatease,whereIshallReignAtthyrighthandvoluptuous,asbeseemsThydaughterandthydarling,withoutend.(870)Thussaying,fromhersidethefatalKey,Sadinstrumentofallourwoe,shetook;AndtowardstheGateroulingherbestialtrain,ForthwiththehugePorcullishighupdrew,WhichbutherselfnotalltheStygianpowersCouldoncehavemov’d;theninthekey-holeturnsTh’intricatewards,andeveryBoltandBarOfmassieIronorsollidRockwitheaseUnfast’ns:onasuddenop’nflieWithimpetuousrecoileandjarringsound(880)Th’infernaldores,andonthirhingesgreatHarshThunder,thatthelowestbottomshookOfErebus.Sheop’nd,buttoshutExcel’dherpower;theGateswideop’nstood,ThatwithextendedwingsaBannerdHostUnderspreadEnsignsmarchingmightpassthroughWithHorseandChariotsranktinloosearray;Sowidetheystood,andlikeaFurnacemouthCastforthredoundingsmoakandruddyflame.Beforethireyesinsuddenviewappear(890)Thesecretsofthehoariedeep,adarkIllimitableOceanwithoutbound,Withoutdimension,wherelength,breadth,andhighth,

Andtimeandplacearelost;whereeldestNightAndChaos,AncestorsofNature,holdEternalAnarchie,amidstthenoiseOfendlesswarrs,andbyconfusionstand.Forhot,cold,moist,anddry,fourChampionsfierceStrivehereforMaistrie,andtoBattelbringThirembryonAtoms;theyaroundtheflag(900)Ofeachhisfaction,inthirseveralClanns,Light-arm’dorheavy,sharp,smooth,swiftorslow,Swarmpopulous,unnumber’dastheSandsOfBarcaorCyrene’storridsoil,LeviedtosidewithwarringWinds,andpoiseThirlighterwings.Towhomthesemostadhere,Heerulesamoment;ChaosUmpiresits,AndbydecisionmoreimbroilesthefrayBywhichheReigns:nexthimhighArbiterChancegovernsall.IntothiswildeAbyss,(910)TheWombofnatureandperhapsherGrave,OfneitherSea,norShore,norAir,norFire,ButalltheseinthirpregnantcausesmixtConfus’dly,andwhichthusmusteverfight,Unlessth’AlmightyMakerthemordainHisdarkmaterialstocreatemoreWorlds,IntothiswildAbyssthewariefiendStoodonthebrinkofHellandlook’dawhile,PonderinghisVoyage:fornonarrowfrithHehadtocross.Norwashisearelesspeal’d(920)

Withnoisesloudandruinous(tocompareGreatthingswithsmall)thenwhenBellonastorms,WithallherbatteringEnginesbenttoraseSomCapitalCity;orlessthenifthisframeOfHeav’nwerefalling,andtheseElementsInmutiniehadfromherAxletornThestedfastEarth.AtlasthisSail-broadVannesHespreadsforflight,andinthesurgingsmoakUpliftedspurnstheground,thencemanyaLeagueAsinacloudyChairascendingrides(930)Audacious,butthatseatsoonfailing,meetsAvastvacuitie:allunawaresFluttringhispennonsvainplumbdownhedropsTenthousandfadomdeep,andtothishourDownhadbeenfalling,hadnotbyillchanceThestrongrebuffofsomtumultuouscloudInstinctwithFireandNitrehurriedhimAsmanymilesaloft:thatfuriestay’d,QuenchtinaBoggySyrtis,neitherSea,NorgooddryLand:nighfounderdonhefares,(940)Treadingthecrudeconsistence,halfonfoot,Halfflying;behoveshimnowbothOareandSaile.AswhenaGryfonthroughtheWildernessWithwingedcourseoreHillormoarieDale,PursuestheArimaspian,whobystelthHadfromhiswakefulcustodypurloindTheguardedGold:SoeagerlythefiendOrebogorsteep,throughstrait,rough,dense,orrare,

Withhead,hands,wings,orfeetpursueshisway,Andswimsorsinks,orwades,orcreeps,orflyes:(950)AtlengthauniversalhubbubwildeOfstunningsoundsandvoicesallconfus’dBornethroughthehollowdarkassaultshiseareWithloudestvehemence:thitherheplyes,UndauntedtomeettherewhateverpowerOrSpiritofthenethermostAbyssMightinthatnoisereside,ofwhomtoaskWhichwaytheneerestcoastofdarknesslyesBorderingonlight;whenstraitbeholdtheThroneOfChaos,andhisdarkPavilionspread(960)WideonthewastefulDeep;withhimEnthron’dSatSable-vestedNight,eldestofthings,TheConsortofhisReign;andbythemstoodOrcusandAdes,andthedreadednameOfDemogorgon;RumornextandChance,AndTumultandConfusionallimbroild,AndDiscordwithathousandvariousmouths.T’whomSatanturningboldly,thus.YePowersAndSpiritsofthisnethermostAbyss,ChaosandancientNight,IcomenoSpie,(970)WithpurposetoexploreortodisturbThesecretsofyourRealm,butbyconstraintWandringthisdarksomeDesart,asmywayLiesthroughyourspaciousEmpireuptolight,Alone,andwithoutguide,halflost,IseekWhatreadiestpathleadswhereyourgloomiebounds

ConfinewithHeav’n;orifsomotherplaceFromyourDominionwon,th’EtherealKingPossesseslately,thithertoarriveItravelthisprofound,directmycourse;(980)Directed,nomeanrecompenceitbringsToyourbehoof,ifIthatRegionlost,Allusurpationthenceexpell’d,reduceToheroriginaldarknessandyoursway(Whichismypresentjourney)andoncemoreErecttheStandardthereofancientNight;Yoursbeth’advantageall,minetherevenge.ThusSatan;andhimthustheAnarcholdWithfaultringspeechandvisageincompos’dAnswer’d.Iknowthee,stranger,whothouart,(990)ThatmightyleadingAngel,whooflateMadeheadagainstHeav’nsKing,thoughoverthrown.Isawandheard,forsuchanumeroushostFlednotinsilencethroughthefrighteddeepWithruinuponruin,routonrout,Confusionworseconfounded;andHeav’nGatesPourdoutbymillionshervictoriousBandsPursuing.IuponmyFrontiereshereKeepresidence;ifallIcanwillserve,Thatlittlewhichisleftsotodefend(1000)EncroachtonstillthroughourintestinebroilesWeakningtheScepterofoldNight:firstHellYourdungeonstretchingfarandwidebeneath;

NowlatelyHeavenandEarth,anotherWorldHungoremyRealm,link’dinagoldenChainTothatsideHeav’nfromwhenceyourLegionsfell:Ifthatwaybeyourwalk,youhavenotfarr;Somuchtheneererdanger;goandspeed;Havockandspoilandruinaremygain.Heceas’d;andSatanstaidnottoreply,(1010)ButgladthatnowhisSeashouldfindashore,Withfreshalacritieandforcerenew’dSpringsupwardlikeaPyramidoffireIntothewildeexpanse,andthroughtheshockOffightingElements,onallsidesroundEnviron’dwinshisway;harderbesetAndmoreendanger’d,thenwhenArgopass’dThroughBosporusbetwixtthejustlingRocks:OrwhenUlyssesontheLarbordshunndCharybdis,andbyth’otherwhirlpoolsteard.(1020)SohewithdifficultyandlabourhardMov’don,withdifficultyandlabourhee;Butheeoncepast,soonafterwhenmanfell,Strangealteration!SinandDeathamainFollowinghistrack,suchwasthewillofHeav’n,Pav’dafterhimabroadandbeat’nwayOverthedarkAbyss,whoseboilingGulfTamelyendur’daBridgeofwondrouslengthFromHellcontinu’dreachingth’utmostOrbeOfthisfrailWorld;bywhichtheSpiritsperverse(1030)Witheasieintercoursepasstoandfro

Totemptorpunishmortals,exceptwhomGodandgoodAngelsguardbyspecialgrace.ButnowatlastthesacredinfluenceOflightappears,andfromthewallsofHeav’nShootsfarrintothebosomofdimNightAglimmeringdawn;hereNaturefirstbeginsHerfardestverge,andChaostoretireAsfromheroutmostworksabrok’nfoeWithtumultlessandwithlesshostiledin,(1040)ThatSatanwithlesstoil,andnowwitheaseWaftsonthecalmerwavebydubiouslightAndlikeaweather-beatenVesselholdsGladlythePort,thoughShroudsandTackletorn;Orintheemptierwaste,resemblingAir,Weighshisspreadwings,atleasuretobeholdFarroffth’EmpyrealHeav’n,extendedwideIncircuit,undetermindsquareorround,WithOpalTowrsandBattlementsadorn’dOflivingSaphire,oncehisnativeSeat;(1050)AndfastbyhanginginagoldenChainThispendantworld,inbignessasaStarrOfsmallestMagnitudeclosebytheMoon.Thitherfullfraughtwithmischievousrevenge,Accurst,andinacursedhourhehies.

TheEndoftheSecondBook.

Book III

TheArgument

God sitting on his Throne seesSatan flying towards this world, then newly created;shewshimtotheSonwhosatathisrighthand;foretellsthesuccessof Sataninperverting

mankind;clearshisownJusticeandWisdomfromallimputation,havingcreatedMan

free and able enough to have withstood his Tempter; yet declares his purpose of grace

towardshim,inregardhefellnotof hisownmalice,asdidSatan,butbyhimseduc’t.

TheSonof GodrenderspraisestohisFatherforthemanifestationof hisgraciouspurpose

towardsMan; but God again declares, that Grace cannot be extended towardsMan

without the satisfaction of divine justice; Man hath offended the majesty of God by

aspiring toGod-head , and therefore with all his Progeny devoted to death must dye,unless some one can be found sufficient to answer for his offence, and undergo his

Punishment.TheSonofGodfreelyoffershimselfaRansomeforMan:theFatheraccepts

him,ordainshisincarnation,pronounceshisexaltationaboveallNamesinHeavenand

Earth;commandsalltheAngelstoadorehim;theyobey,andhymningtothirHarpsin

fullQuire, celebrate theFather and theSon.MeanwhileSatanalights upon the bare

Convexof thisWorldsoutermostOrb;wherewandringhefirstfindsaplacesincecall’d

TheLymboof Vanity;whatpersonsandthingsflyupthither;thencecomestotheGateof

Heaven, describ’d ascending by staires, and thewaters above theFirmament that flow

aboutit:HispassagethencetotheOrbof theSun;hefindsthereUrieltheRegentof thatOrb,butfirstchangeshimself intotheshapeof ameanerAngel;andpretendingazealous

desiretobeholdthenewCreationandManwhomGodhadplac’there,inquiresof him

theplaceofhishabitation,andisdirected;alightsfirstonMountNiphates.

Hailholylight,ofspringofHeav’nfirst-born,Orofth’EternalCoeternalbeamMayIexpresstheeunblam’d?sinceGodislight,AndneverbutinunapproachedlightDweltfromEternitie,dwelttheninthee,Brighteffluenceofbrightessenceincreate.Orhear’stthouratherpureEtherealstream,WhoseFountainwhoshalltell?beforetheSun,BeforetheHeavensthouwert,andatthevoiceOfGod,aswithaMantledidstinvest(10)Therisingworldofwatersdarkanddeep,Wonfromthevoidandformlessinfinite.TheeIre-visitnowwithbolderwing,Escap’ttheStygianPool,thoughlongdetain’dInthatobscuresojourn,whileinmyflightThroughutterandthroughmiddledarknessborneWithothernotesthentoth’OrpheanLyreIsungofChaosandEternalNight,Taughtbytheheav’nlyMusetoventuredownThedarkdescent,anduptoreascend,(20)Thoughhardandrare:theeIrevisitsafe,AndfeelthysovranvitalLamp;butthouRevisit’stnottheseeyes,thatrowleinvainTofindthypiercingray,andfindnodawn;SothickadropserenehathquenchtthirOrbs,Ordimsuffusionveild.Yetnotthemore

CeaseItowanderwheretheMuseshauntCleerSpring,orshadieGrove,orSunnieHill,Smitwiththeloveofsacredsong;butchiefTheeSionandtheflowrieBrooksbeneath(30)Thatwashthyhallowdfeet,andwarblingflow,NightlyIvisit:norsomtimesforgetThoseothertwoequal’dwithmeinFate,SowereIequal’dwiththeminrenown,BlindThamyrisandblindMæonides,

AndTiresiasandPhineusProphetsold.Thenfeedonthoughts,thatvoluntariemoveHarmoniousnumbers;asthewakefulBirdSingsdarkling,andinshadiestCoverthidTuneshernocturnalNote.ThuswiththeYear(40)Seasonsreturn,butnottomereturnsDay,orthesweetapproachofEv’norMorn,Orsightofvernalbloom,orSummersRose,Orflocks,orherds,orhumanfacedivine;Butcloudinstead,andever-duringdarkSurroundsme,fromthechearfulwaiesofmenCutoff,andfortheBookofknowledgfairPresentedwithaUniversalblancOfNaturesworkstomeeexpung’dandras’d,Andwisdomeatoneentrancequiteshutout.(50)SomuchtheratherthouCelestiallightShineinward,andthemindthroughallherpowersIrradiate,thereplanteyes,allmistfromthencePurgeanddisperse,thatImayseeandtell

Ofthingsinvisibletomortalsight.NowhadtheAlmightyFatherfromabove,FromthepureEmpyreanwherehesitsHighThron’daboveallhighth,bentdownhiseye,Hisownworksandtheirworksatoncetoview:AbouthimalltheSanctitiesofHeaven(60)StoodthickasStarrs,andfromhissightreceiv’dBeatitudepastutterance;onhisrightTheradiantimageofhisGlorysat,HisonelySon;OnEarthhefirstbeheldOurtwofirstParents,yettheonelytwoOfmankind,inthehappieGardenplac’t,Reapingimmortalfruitsofjoyandlove,Uninterruptedjoy,unrivaldloveInblissfulsolitude;hethensurvey’dHellandtheGulfbetween,andSatanthere(70)CoastingthewallofHeav’nonthissideNightInthedunAirsublime,andreadynowTostoopwithweariedwings,andwillingfeetOnthebareoutsideofthisWorld,thatseem’dFirmlandimbosom’dwithoutFirmament,Uncertainwhich,inOceanorinAir.HimGodbeholdingfromhisprospecthigh,Whereinpast,present,futurehebeholds,ThustohisonelySonforeseeingspake.OnelybegottenSon,seestthouwhatrage(80)Transportsouradversarie,whomnoboundsPrescrib’d,nobarrsofHell,norallthechains

Heaptonhimthere,noryetthemainAbyssWideinterruptcanhold;sobentheseemsOndesparaterevenge,thatshallredoundUponhisownrebellioushead.AndnowThroughallrestraintbrokeloosehewingshiswayNotfarroffHeav’n,inthePrecinctsoflight,DirectlytowardsthenewcreatedWorld,AndManthereplac’t,withpurposetoassay(90)Ifhimbyforcehecandestroy,orworse,Bysomefalseguilepervert;andshallpervert;Formanwillheark’ntohisglozinglyes,AndeasilytransgressthesoleCommand,Solepledgeofhisobedience:SowillfallHeeandhisfaithlessProgenie:whosefault?Whosebuthisown?ingrate,hehadofmeeAllhecouldhave;Imadehimjustandright,Sufficienttohavestood,thoughfreetofall.SuchIcreatedallth’EtherealPowers(100)AndSpirits,boththemwhostoodandthemwhofaild;Freelytheystoodwhostood,andfellwhofell.Notfree,whatproofcouldtheyhavegivnsincereOftrueallegiance,constantFaithorLove,Whereonelywhattheyneedsmustdo,appeard,Notwhattheywould?whatpraisecouldtheyreceive?WhatpleasureIfromsuchobediencepaid,WhenWillandReason(Reasonalsoischoice)Uselessandvain,offreedombothdespoild,

Madepassiveboth,hadservdnecessitie,(110)Notmee.Theythereforeastorightbelongd,Sowerecreated,norcanjustlyaccuseThirmaker,orthirmaking,orthirFate;AsifPredestinationover-rul’dThirwill,dispos’dbyabsoluteDecreeOrhighforeknowledge;theythemselvesdecreedThirownrevolt,notI:ifIforeknew,Foreknowledgehadnoinfluenceontheirfault,Whichhadnolessprov’dcertainunforeknown.SowithoutleastimpulseorshadowofFate,(120)Oraughtbymeimmutablieforeseen,Theytrespass,AuthorstothemselvesinallBothwhattheyjudgeandwhattheychoose;forsoIformdthemfree,andfreetheymustremain,Tilltheyenthrallthemselves:IelsemustchangeThirnature,andrevokethehighDecreeUnchangeable,Eternal,whichordain’dThirfreedom,theythemselvesordain’dthirfall.Thefirstsortbythirownsuggestionfell,Self-tempted,self-deprav’d:Manfallsdeceiv’d(130)Bytheotherfirst:Manthereforeshallfindgrace,Theothernone:inMercyandJusticeboth,ThroughHeav’nandEarth,soshallmyglorieexcel,ButMercyfirstandlastshallbrightestshine.ThuswhileGodspake,ambrosialfragrancefill’dAllHeav’n,andintheblessedSpiritselectSenseofnewjoyineffablediffus’d:

BeyondcomparetheSonofGodwasseenMostglorious,inhimallhisFathershonSubstantiallyexpress’d,andinhisface(140)Divinecompassionvisiblyappeerd,Lovewithoutend,andwithoutmeasureGrace,WhichutteringthushetohisFatherspake.OFather,graciouswasthatwordwhichclos’dThysovransentence,thatManshouldfindgrace;ForwhichbothHeav’nandEarthshallhighextollThypraises,withth’innumerablesoundOfHymnsandsacredSongs,wherewiththyThroneEncompass’dshallresoundtheeeverblest.ForshouldManfinallybelost,shouldMan(150)Thycreaturelatesolov’d,thyyoungestSonFallcircumventedthusbyfraud,thoughjoyndWithhisownfolly?thatbefromtheefarr,Thatfarrbefromthee,Father,whoartJudgeOfallthingsmade,andjudgestonelyright.OrshalltheAdversariethusobtainHisend,andfrustratethine,shallhefulfillHismalice,andthygoodnessbringtonaught,Orproudreturnthoughtohisheavierdoom,Yetwithrevengeaccomplish’tandtoHell(160)DrawafterhimthewholeRaceofmankind,Byhimcorrupted?orwiltthouthyselfAbolishthyCreation,andunmake,Forhim,whatforthygloriethouhastmade?Soshouldthygoodnessandthygreatnessboth

Bequestiondandblaspheam’dwithoutdefence.TowhomthegreatCreatourthusreply’d.OSon,inwhommySoulhathchiefdelight,Sonofmybosom,SonwhoartaloneMyword,mywisdom,andeffectualmight,(170)Allhastthouspok’nasmythoughtsare,allAsmyEternalpurposehathdecreed:Manshallnotquitebelost,butsav’dwhowill,Yetnotofwillinhim,butgraceinmeFreelyvoutsaft;oncemoreIwillrenewHislapsedpowers,thoughforfeitandenthrall’dBysintofoulexorbitantdesires;Upheldbyme,yetoncemoreheshallstandOnevengroundagainsthismortalfoe,Bymeupheld,thathemayknowhowfrail(180)Hisfall’nconditionis,andtomeowAllhisdeliv’rance,andtononebutme.SomeIhavechosenofpeculiargraceElectabovetherest;soismywill:Therestshallhearmecall,andoftbewarndThirsinfulstate,andtoappeasebetimesTh’incensedDeitie,whileofferdgraceInvites;forIwillcleerthirsensesdark,Whatmaysuffice,andsoft’nstonieheartsTopray,repent,andbringobediencedue.(190)ToPrayer,repentance,andobediencedue,Thoughbutendevordwithsincereintent,

Mineearshallnotbeslow,mineeyenotshut.AndIwillplacewithinthemasaguideMyUmpireConscience,whomiftheywillhear,Lightafterlightwellus’dtheyshallattain,Andtotheendpersisting,safearrive.ThismylongsufferanceandmydayofgraceTheywhoneglectandscorn,shallnevertaste;Buthardbehard’nd,blindbeblindedmore,(200)Thattheymaystumbleon,anddeeperfall;AndnonebutsuchfrommercyIexclude.Butyetallisnotdon;Mandisobeying,Disloyalbreakshisfealtie,andsinnsAgainstthehighSupremacieofHeav’n,AffectingGod-head,andsoloosingall,ToexpiatehisTreasonhathnaughtleft,Buttodestructionsacredanddevote,Hewithhiswholeposteritiemustdye,DieheeorJusticemust;unlessforhim(210)Somotherable,andaswilling,payTherigidsatisfaction,deathfordeath.SayHeav’nlyPowers,whereshallwefindsuchlove,WhichofyewillbemortaltoredeemMansmortalcrime,andjustth’unjusttosave,DwelsinallHeavencharitiesodeare?Heask’d,butalltheHeav’nlyQuirestoodmute,AndsilencewasinHeav’n:onmansbehalfPatronorIntercessornoneappeerd,Muchlessthatdurstuponhisownheaddraw(220)

Thedeadlyforfeiture,andransomset.AndnowwithoutredemptionallmankindMusthavebinlost,adjudg’dtoDeathandHellBydoomsevere,hadnottheSonofGod,Inwhomthefulnessdwelsoflovedivine,Hisdearestmediationthusrenewd.Father,thywordispast,manshallfindgrace;Andshallgracenotfindmeans,thatfindsherway,Thespeediestofthywingedmessengers,Tovisitallthycreatures,andtoall(230)Comesunprevented,unimplor’d,unsought,Happieforman,socoming;heheraideCanneverseek,oncedeadinsinsandlost;Attonementforhimselforofferingmeet,Indebtedandundon,hathnonetobring:Beholdmeethen,meeforhim,lifeforlifeIoffer,onmeeletthineangerfall;Accountmeeman;IforhissakewillleaveThybosom,andthisglorienexttotheeFreelyputoff,andforhimlastlydie(240)Wellpleas’d,onmeletDeathwreckallhisrage;UnderhisgloomiepowerIshallnotlongLievanquisht;thouhastgivnmetopossessLifeinmyselfforever,bytheeIlive,ThoughnowtoDeathIyield,andamhisdueAllthatofmecandie,yetthatdebtpaid,ThouwiltnotleavemeintheloathsomgraveHisprey,norsuffermyunspottedSoule

Foreverwithcorruptiontheretodwell;ButIshallriseVictorious,andsubdue(250)MyVanquisher,spoildofhisvantedspoile;Deathhisdeathswoundshallthenreceive,andstoopInglorious,ofhismortallstingdisarm’d.IthroughtheampleAirinTriumphhighShallleadHellCaptivemaugreHell,andshowThepowersofdarknessbound.ThouatthesightPleas’d,outofHeavenshaltlookdownandsmile,Whilebytheerais’dIruinallmyFoes,Deathlast,andwithhisCarcassgluttheGrave:Thenwiththemultitudeofmyredeemd(260)ShallenterHeavenlongabsent,andreturne,Father,toseethyface,whereinnocloudOfangershallremain,butpeaceassur’d,Andreconcilement;wrauthshallbenomoreThenceforth,butinthypresenceJoyentire.Hiswordshereended,buthismeekaspectSilentyetspake,andbreath’dimmortalloveTomortalmen,abovewhichonlyshonFilialobedience:asasacrificeGladtobeoffer’d,heattendsthewill(270)OfhisgreatFather.Admirationseis’dAllHeav’n,whatthismightmean,andwhithertendWondring;butsoonth’Almightythusreply’d:OthouinHeav’nandEarththeonlypeaceFoundoutformankindunderwrauth,Othou

Mysolecomplacence!wellthouknow’sthowdear,Tomeareallmyworks,norMantheleastThoughlastcreated,thatforhimIspareTheefrommybosomandrighthand,tosave,Byloosingtheeawhile,thewholeRacelost.(280)Thouthereforewhomthouonlycanstredeeme,ThirNaturealsotothyNaturejoyn;AndbethyselfManamongmenonEarth,Madeflesh,whentimeshallbe,ofVirginseed,Bywondrousbirth:BethouinAdamsroomTheHeadofallmankind,thoughAdamsSon.Asinhimperishallmen,sointheeAsfromasecondrootshallberestor’d,Asmanyasarerestor’d,withouttheenone.HiscrimemakesguiltieallhisSons,thymerit(290)ImputedshallabsolvethemwhorenounceThirownbothrighteousandunrighteousdeeds,Andliveintheetransplanted,andfromtheeReceivenewlife.SoMan,asismostjust,ShallsatisfieforMan,bejudg’danddie,Anddyingrise,andrisingwithhimraiseHisBrethren,ransomdwithhisowndearlife.SoHeav’nlyloveshalloutdooHellishhate,Givingtodeath,anddyingtoredeeme,SodearlytoredeemwhatHellishhate(300)Soeasilydestroy’d,andstilldestroyesInthosewho,whentheymay,acceptnotgrace.Norshaltthoubydescendingtoassume

MansNature,less’nordegradethineowne.Becausethouhast,thoughThron’dinhighestblissEqualtoGod,andequallyenjoyingGod-likefruition,quittedalltosaveAWorldfromutterloss,andhastbeenfoundByMeritmorethenBirthrightSonofGod,FoundworthiesttobesobybeingGood,(310)FarrmorethenGreatorHigh;becauseintheeLovehathaboundedmorethenGloryabounds,ThereforethyHumiliationshallexaltWiththeethyManhoodalsotothisThrone;Hereshaltthousitincarnate,hereshaltReigneBothGodandMan,SonbothofGodandMan,AnointeduniversalKing,allPowerIgivethee,reignforever,andassumeThyMerits;undertheeasHeadSupreamThrones,Princedoms,Powers,DominionsIreduce:(320)Allkneestotheeshallbow,ofthemthatbideInHeaven,orEarth,orunderEarthinHell;WhenthouattendedgloriouslyfromHeav’nShaltintheSkieappeer,andfromtheesendThesummoningArch-AngelstoproclaimeThydreadTribunal:forthwithfromallWindesTheliving,andforthwiththeciteddeadOfallpastAgestothegeneralDoomShallhast’n,suchapealshallrousethirsleep.ThenallthySaintsassembl’d,thoushaltjudge(330)BadmenandAngels,theyarraigndshallsink

BeneaththySentence;Hell,hernumbersfull,Thenceforthshallbeforevershut.MeanwhileTheWorldshallburn,andfromherashesspringNewHeav’nandEarth,whereinthejustshalldwellAndafterallthirtribulationslongSeegoldendays,fruitfulofgoldendeeds,WithJoyandLovetriumphing,andfairTruth.ThenthouthyregalSceptershaltlayby,ForregalScepterthennomoreshallneed,(340)GodshallbeAllinAll.ButallyeGods,Adorehim,whotocompassallthisdies,AdoretheSon,andhonourhimasmee.Nosoonerhadth’Almightyceas’t,butallThemultitudeofAngelswithashoutLoudasfromnumberswithoutnumber,sweetAsfromblestvoices,utteringjoy,Heav’nrungWithJubilee,andloudHosanna’sfill’dTh’eternalRegions:lowlyreverentTowardseitherThronetheybow,andtotheground(350)WithsolemnadorationdowntheycastThirCrownsinwovewithAmarantandGold,ImmortalAmarant,aFlourwhichonceInParadise,fastbytheTreeofLifeBegantobloom,butsoonformansoffenceToHeav’nremov’dwherefirstitgrew,theregrows,AndfloursaloftshadingtheFountofLife,AndwheretheriverofBlissthroughmidstofHeavn

Rowlso’reElisianFloursherAmberstream;WiththesethatneverfadetheSpiritsElect(360)Bindthirresplendentlocksinwreath’dwithbeams,NowinlooseGarlandsthickthrownoff,thebrightPavementthatlikeaSeaofJaspershonImpurpl’dwithCelestialRosessmil’d.ThenCrown’dagainthirgold’nHarpstheytook,Harpsevertun’d,thatglitteringbytheirsideLikeQuivershung,andwithPræamblesweetOfcharmingsymphonietheyintroduceThirsacredSong,andwakenraptureshigh;Novoiceexempt,novoicebutwellcouldjoine(370)Melodiouspart,suchconcordisinHeav’n.TheeFatherfirsttheysungOmnipotent,Immutable,Immortal,Infinite,EternalKing;theeAuthorofallbeing,FountainofLight,thyselfinvisibleAmidstthegloriousbrightnesswherethousit’stThron’dinaccessible,butwhenthoushad’stThefullblazeofthybeams,andthroughacloudDrawnroundabouttheelikearadiantShrine,Darkwithexcessivebrightthyskirtsappeer,(380)YetdazleHeav’n,thatbrightestSeraphimApproachnot,butwithbothwingsveilthireyes,TheenexttheysangofallCreationfirst,BegottenSon,DivineSimilitude,Inwhoseconspicuouscount’nance,withoutcloudMadevisible,th’AlmightyFathershines,

WhomelsenoCreaturecanbehold;ontheeImpressttheeffulgenceofhisGlorieabides,Transfus’dontheehisampleSpiritrests.HeeHeav’nofHeavensandallthePowerstherein(390)Bytheecreated,andbytheethrewdownTh’AspiringDominations:thouthatdayThyFathersdreadfulThunderdidstnotspare,NorstopthyflamingChariotwheels,thatshookHeav’nseverlastingFrame,whileo’rethenecksThoudrov’stofwarringAngelsdisarraid.BackfrompursuitthyPowerswithloudacclaimeTheeonlyextold,SonofthyFathersmight,Toexecutefiercevengeanceonhisfoes,NotsoonMan;himthroughtheirmalicefall’n,(400)FatherofMercieandGrace,thoudidstnotdoomeSostrictly,butmuchmoretopitieencline:NosoonerdidthydearandonelySonPerceivetheepurpos’dnottodoomfrailManSostrictly,butmuchmoretopitieenclin’d,Hetoappeasethywrauth,andendthestrifeOfMercyandJusticeinthyfacediscern’d,RegardlessoftheBlisswhereinheesatSecondtothee,offerdhimselftodieFormansoffence.Ounexampl’dlove,(410)LovenowheretobefoundlessthenDivine!HailSonofGod,SaviourofMen,thyNameShallbethecopiousmatterofmySongHenceforth,andnevershallmyHarpthypraise

Forget,norfromthyFatherspraisedisjoine.ThustheyinHeav’n,abovethestarrySphear,Thirhappiehoursinjoyandhymningspent.MeanwhileuponthefirmopacousGlobeOfthisroundWorld,whosefirstconvexdividesTheluminousinferiorOrbs,enclos’d(420)FromChaosandth’inroadofDarknessold,Satanalightedwalks:aGlobefarroffItseem’d,nowseemsaboundlessContinentDark,waste,andwild,underthefrownofNightStarlessexpos’d,andever-threatningstormsOfChaosblustringround,inclementskie;SaveonthatsidewhichfromthewallofHeav’nThoughdistantfarrsomsmallreflectiongainesOfglimmeringairlessvextwithtempestloud:Herewalk’dtheFiendatlargeinspaciousfield.(430)AswhenaVulturonImausbred,WhosesnowieridgetherovingTartarbounds,DislodgingfromaRegionscarceofpreyTogorgethefleshofLambsoryeanlingKidsOnHillswhereFlocksarefed,fliestowardtheSpringsOfGangesorHydaspes,Indianstreams;ButinhiswaylightsonthebarrenplainesOfSericana,whereChinesesdriveWithSailsandWindthircanieWaggonslight:SoonthiswindieSeaofLand,theFiend(440)Walk’dupanddownalonebentonhisprey,

Alone,forotherCreatureinthisplaceLivingorlivelesstobefoundwasnone,Noneyet,butstorehereafterfromtheearthUphitherlikeAerealvapoursflewOfallthingstransitorieandvain,whenSinWithvanityhadfilldtheworksofmen:Bothallthingsvain,andallwhoinvainthingsBuiltthirfondhopesofGlorieorlastingfame,Orhappinessinthisorth’otherlife;(450)AllwhohavethirrewardonEarth,thefruitsOfpainfulSuperstitionandblindZeal,Naughtseekingbutthepraiseofmen,herefindFitretribution,emptieasthirdeeds;Allth’unaccomplishtworksofNatureshand,Abortive,monstrous,orunkindlymixt,Dissolvdonearth,fleethither,andinvain,Tillfinaldissolution,wanderhere,NotintheneighbouringMoon,assomehavedreamd;ThoseargentFieldsmorelikelyhabitants,(460)TranslatedSaints,ormiddleSpiritsholdBetwixtth’AngelicalandHumankinde:Hitherofill-joyndSonsandDaughtersbornFirstfromtheancientWorldthoseGiantscameWithmanyavainexploit,thoughthenrenownd:ThebuildersnextofBabelonthePlainOfSennaar,andstillwithvaindesigneNewBabels,hadtheywherewithall,wouldbuild:Otherscamesingle;heewhotobedeemd

AGod,leap’dfondlyintoÆtnaflames(470)Empedocles,andheewhotoenjoyPlato’sElysium,leap’dintotheSea,Cleombrotus,andmanymoretoolong,Embryo’sandIdiots,EremitsandFriersWhite,BlackandGrey,withallthirtrumperie.HerePilgrimsroam,thatstray’dsofarrtoseekInGolgothahimdead,wholivesinHeav’n;AndtheywhotobesureofParadiseDyingputontheweedsofDominic,OrinFranciscanthinktopassdisguis’d;(480)TheypassthePlanetsseven,andpassthefixt,AndthatCrystallineSphearwhoseballanceweighsTheTrepidationtalkt,andthatfirstmov’d;AndnowSaintPeteratHeav’nsWicketseemsTowaitthemwithhisKeys,andnowatfootOfHeav’nsascenttheyliftthirFeet,whenloeAviolentcrosswindfromeitherCoastBlowsthemtransversetenthousandLeaguesawryIntothedeviousAir;thenmightyeseeCowles,HoodsandHabitswiththirwearerstost(490)AndflutterdintoRaggs,thenReliques,Beads,Indulgences,Dispenses,Pardons,Bulls,ThesportofWinds:alltheseupwhirldaloftFlyo’rethebacksideoftheWorldfarroffIntoaLimbolargeandbroad,sincecalldTheParadiseofFools,tofewunknownLongafter,nowunpeopl’d,anduntrod;

AllthisdarkGlobetheFiendfoundashepass’d,Andlonghewanderd,tillatlastagleameOfdawninglightturndthither-wardinhaste(500)Histravell’dsteps;farrdistantheedescriesAscendingbydegreesmagnificentUptothewallofHeavenaStructurehigh,Attopwhereof,butfarrmorerichappeerdTheworkasofaKinglyPalaceGateWithFrontispiceofDiamondandGoldImbellisht,thickwithsparklingorientGemmesThePortalshon,inimitableonEarthByModel,orbyshadingPencildrawn.TheStairsweresuchaswhereonJacobsaw(510)Angelsascendinganddescending,bandsOfGuardiansbright,whenhefromEsaufledToPadan-AraminthefieldofLuz,DreamingbynightundertheopenSkie,Andwakingcri’d,ThisistheGateofHeav’nEachStairmysteriouslywasmeant,norstoodTherealwaies,butdrawnuptoHeav’nsomtimesViewless,andunderneathabrightSeaflow’dOfJasper,orofliquidPearle,whereonWhoaftercamefromEarth,saylingarriv’d,(520)WaftedbyAngels,orflewo’retheLakeRaptinaChariotdrawnbyfierySteeds.TheStairswerethenletdown,whethertodareTheFiendbyeasieascent,oraggravate

HissadexclusionfromthedoresofBliss.Directagainstwhichopn’dfrombeneath,Justo’retheblissfulseatofParadise,Apassagedowntoth’Earth,apassagewide,Widerbyfarrthenthatofafter-timesOverMountSion,and,thoughthatwerelarge,(530)OverthePromis’dLandtoGodsodear,Bywhich,tovisitoftthosehappyTribes,OnhighbehestshisAngelstoandfroPass’dfrequent,andhiseyewithchoiceregardFromPaneasthefountofJordansfloodToBëersaba,wheretheHolyLandBordersonÆgyptandtheArabianshoareSowidetheop’ningseemd,whereboundsweresetTodarkness,suchasboundtheOceanwave.Satanfromhencenowonthelowerstair(540)Thatscal’dbystepsofGoldtoHeav’nGateLooksdownwithwonderatthesuddenviewOfallthisWorldatonce.AswhenaScoutThroughdarkanddesartwayeswithperilgoneAllnight;atlastbybreakofchearfuldawneObtainsthebrowofsomehigh-climbingHill,WhichtohiseyediscoversunawareThegoodlyprospectofsomeforeinlandFirstseen,orsomerenowndMetropolisWithglisteringSpiresandPinnaclesadornd,(550)WhichnowtheRisingSunguildswithhisbeams.Suchwonderseis’d,thoughafterHeavenseen,

TheSpiritmaligne,butmuchmoreenvyseis’dAtsightofallthisWorldbeheldsofaire.Roundhesurveys,andwellmight,wherehestoodSohighabovethecirclingCanopieOfNightsextendedshade;fromEasternPointOfLibratothefleecieStarrthatbearsAndromedafarroffAtlantickSeasBeyondth’Horizon;thenfromPoletoPole(560)Heviewsinbredth,andwithoutlongerpauseDownrightintotheWorldsfirstRegionthrowsHisflightprecipitant,andwindeswitheaseThroughthepuremarbleAirhisobliquewayAmongstinnumerableStarrs,thatshonStarsdistant,butnighhandseemdotherWorlds,OrotherWorldstheyseemd,orhappyIles,LikethoseHesperianGardensfam’dofold,FortunateFields,andGrovesandflourieVales,ThricehappyIles,butwhodwelthappythere(570)Hestaydnottoenquire:abovethemallThegoldenSuninsplendorlikestHeavenAllur’dhiseye:ThitherhiscoursehebendsThroughthecalmFirmament;butupordowneBycenter,oreccentric,hardtotell,OrLongitude,wherethegreatLuminarieAlooffthevulgarConstellationsthick,ThatfromhisLordlyeyekeepdistancedue,DispensesLightfromfarr;theyastheymoveThirStarrydanceinnumbersthatcompute(580)

Days,months,andyears,towardshisall-chearingLampTurnswifttheirvariousmotions,orareturndByhisMagneticbeam,thatgentlywarmsTheUnivers,andtoeachinwardpartWithgentlepenetration,thoughunseen,Shootsinvisiblevertueeventothedeep:SowondrouslywassethisStationbright.TherelandstheFiend,aspotlikewhichperhapsAstronomerintheSun’slucentOrbeThroughhisglaz’dOpticTubeyetneversaw.(590)Theplacehefoundbeyondexpressionbright,Compar’dwithaughtonEarth,MedalorStone;Notallpartslike,butallalikeinformdWithradiantlight,asglowingIronwithfire;Ifmettal,partseemdGold,partSilvercleer;Ifstone,CarbunclemostorChrysolite,RubieorTopaz,totheTwelvethatshonInAaronsBrest-plate,andastonebesidesImagindratheroftthenelsewhereseen,Thatstone,orliketothatwhichherebelow(600)Philosophersinvainsolonghavesought,Invain,thoughbythirpowerfulArttheybindeVolatilHermes,andcallupunboundInvariousshapesoldProteusfromtheSea,DraindthroughaLimbectohisNativeforme.WhatwondertheniffieldsandregionshereBreatheforthElixirpure,andRiversrun

PotableGold,whenwithonevertuoustouchTh’Arch-chimicSunsofarrfromusremoteProduceswithTerrestrialHumormixt(610)HereinthedarksomanypreciousthingsOfcolourgloriousandeffectsorare?HerematternewtogazetheDevilmetUndazl’d,farrandwidehiseyecommands,Forsightnoobstaclefoundhere,norshade,ButallSun-shine,aswhenhisBeamsatNoonCulminatefromth’Æquator,astheynowShotupwardstilldirect,whencenowayroundShadowfrombodyopaquecanfall,andtheAire,Nowheresocleer,sharp’ndhisvisualray(620)Toobjectsdistantfarr,wherebyhesoonSawwithinkennagloriousAngelstand,ThesamewhomJohnsawalsointheSun:Hisbackwasturnd,butnothisbrightnesshid;OfbeamingsunnieRaies,agoldentiarCircl’dhisHead,norlesshisLocksbehindIllustriousonhisShouldersfledgewithwingsLaywavinground;onsomgreatchargeimploy’dHeeseemd,orfixtincogitationdeep.GladwastheSpiritimpureasnowinhope(630)TofindwhomightdirecthiswandringflightToParadisethehappieseatofMan,Hisjourniesendandourbeginningwoe.Butfirsthecaststochangehispropershape,Whichelsemightworkhimdangerordelay:

AndnowastriplingCherubeheappeers,Notoftheprime,yetsuchasinhisfaceYouthsmil’dCelestial,andtoeveryLimbSutablegracediffus’d,sowellhefeign’d;UnderaCoronethisflowinghaire(640)Incurlesoneithercheekplaid,wingsheworeOfmanyacolourdplumesprinkl’dwithGold,Hishabitfitforspeedsuccinct,andheldBeforehisdecentstepsaSilverwand.Hedrewnotnighunheard,theAngelbright,Erehedrewnigh,hisradiantvisageturnd,Admonishtbyhiseare,andstraitwasknownTh’Arch-AngelUriel,oneoftheseav’nWhoinGodspresence,neeresttohisThroneStandreadyatcommand,andarehisEyes(650)ThatrunthroughalltheHeav’ns,ordowntoth’EarthBearhisswifterrandsovermoistanddry,O’reSeaandLand:himSatanthusaccostes.Uriel,forthouofthoseseav’nSpiritsthatstandInsightofGod’shighThrone,gloriouslybright,ThefirstartwonthisgreatauthenticwillInterpreterthroughhighestHeav’ntobring,WhereallhisSonsthyEmbassieattend;AndhereartlikeliestbysupreamdecreeLikehonortoobtain,andashisEye(660)TovisitoftthisnewCreationround;Unspeakabledesiretosee,andknowAllthesehiswondrousworks,butchieflyMan,

Hischiefdelightandfavour,himforwhomAllthesehisworkssowondrousheordaind,HathbroughtmefromtheQuiresofCherubimAlonethuswandring.BrightestSeraphtellInwhichofalltheseshiningOrbeshathManHisfixedseat,orfixedseathathnone,ButalltheseshiningOrbeshischoicetodwell;(670)ThatImayfindhim,andwithsecretgaze,OropenadmirationhimbeholdOnwhomthegreatCreatorhathbestowdWorlds,andonwhomhathallthesegracespowrd;Thatbothinhimandallthings,asismeet,TheUniversalMakerwemaypraise;WhojustlyhathdrivnouthisRebellFoesTodeepestHell,andtorepairthatlossCreatedthisnewhappieRaceofMenToservehimbetter:wiseareallhiswayes.(680)Sospakethefalsedissemblerunperceivd;ForneitherMannorAngelcandiscernHypocrisie,theonelyevilthatwalksInvisible,excepttoGodalone,Byhispermissivewill,throughHeav’nandEarth:Andoftthoughwisdomwake,suspicionsleepsAtwisdomsGate,andtosimplicitieResignshercharge,whilegoodnessthinksnoillWherenoillseems:Whichnowforoncebeguil’dUriel,thoughRegentoftheSun,andheld(690)

ThesharpestsightedSpiritofallinHeav’n;WhotothefraudulentImpostorfouleInhisuprightnessanswerthusreturnd.FaireAngel,thydesirewhichtendstoknowTheworksofGod,therebytoglorifieThegreatWork-Maister,leadstonoexcessThatreachesblame,butrathermeritspraiseThemoreitseemsexcess,thatledtheehitherFromthyEmpyrealMansionthusalone,Towitnesswiththineeyeswhatsomeperhaps(700)Contentedwithreportheareonelyinheav’n:Forwonderfulindeedareallhisworks,Pleasanttoknow,andworthiesttobeallHadinremembrancealwayeswithdelight;ButwhatcreatedmindcancomprehendThirnumber,orthewisdominfiniteThatbroughtthemforth,buthidthircausesdeep.IsawwhenathisWordtheformlessMass,Thisworldsmaterialmould,cametoaheap:Confusionheardhisvoice,andwildeuproar(710)Stoodrul’d,stoodvastinfinitudeconfin’d;Tillathissecondbiddingdarknessfled,Lightshon,andorderfromdisordersprung:SwifttothirseveralQuartershastedthenThecumbrousElements,Earth,Flood,Aire,Fire,AndthisEtherealquintessenceofHeav’nFlewupward,spiritedwithvariousforms,Thatrowldorbicular,andturndtoStarrs

Numberless,asthouseest,andhowtheymove;Eachhadhisplaceappointed,eachhiscourse,(720)TherestincircuitwallesthisUniverse.LookdownwardonthatGlobewhosehithersideWithlightfromhence,thoughbutreflected,shines;ThatplaceisEarththeseatofMan,thatlightHisday,whichelseasth’otherHemisphereNightwouldinvade,buttheretheneighbouringMoon(SocallthatoppositefairStarr)heraideTimelyinterposes,andhermonthlyroundStillending,stillrenewing,throughmidHeav’n,Withborrowdlighthercountenancetriform(730)HencefillsandemptiestoenlightentheEarth,Andinherpaledominionchecksthenight.ThatspottowhichIpointisParadise,Adamsabode,thoseloftieshadeshisBowre.Thywaythoucanstnotmiss,meminerequires.Thussaid,heturnd,andSatanbowinglow,AstosuperiorSpiritsiswontinHeaven,Wherehonourdueandreverencenoneneglects,Tookleave,andtowardthecoastofEarthbeneath,Downfromth’Ecliptic,spedwithhop’dsuccess,(740)ThrowshissteepflightinmanyanAeriewheele,Norstaid,tillonNiphatestophelights.

TheEndoftheThirdBook.

Book IV

TheArgument

Satannowinprospectof Eden,andnightheplacewherehemustnowattempttheboldenterprizewhichheundertookaloneagainstGodandMan,fallsintomanydoubtswith

himself,andmanypassions, fear, envy,anddespare;butat length confirmshimself in

evil, journeys on to Paradise, whose outward prospect and scituation is discribed,

overleapsthebounds,sitsintheshapeof aCormorantontheTreeof life,ashighestinthe

Gardentolookabouthim.TheGardendescrib’d;SatansfirstsightofAdamandEve;hiswonderatthirexcellentformandhappystate,butwithresolutiontoworkthirfall;

overhearsthirdiscourse,thencegathersthattheTreeof knowledgewasforbiddenthemto

eatof,underpenaltyof death;andthereonintendstofoundhisTemptation,byseducing

themtotransgress:thenleavesthemawhile,toknowfurtherof thirstatebysomeother

means. Mean whileUrieldescending on a Sun-beam warnsGabriel, who had inchargetheGateof Paradise,thatsomeevilspirithadescap’dtheDeep,andpastatNoon

by his Sphere in the shape of a good Angel down to Paradise, discovered after by his

furiousgesturesintheMount.Gabrielpromises tofindhimeremorning.Nightcomingon,AdamandEvediscourse of going to thir rest: thirBowerdescrib’d; thirEveningworship.Gabrieldrawing forth his Bands of Night-watch to walk the round ofParadise,appoints two strongAngels toAdamsBower, least the evill spirit shouldbetheredoingsomeharmtoAdamorEvesleeping;theretheyfindhimattheearof Eve,tempting her in a dream, and bring him, though unwilling, toGabriel; by whomquestion’d he scornfully answers, prepares resistance, but hinder’d by a Sign from

Heaven,fliesoutofParadise.

Oforthatwarningvoice,whichhewhosawTh’Apocalyps,heardcryinHeavenaloud,ThenwhentheDragon,puttosecondrout,Camefuriousdowntobereveng’donmen,WototheinhabitantsonEarth!thatnow,Whiletimewas,ourfirstParentshadbinwarndThecomingofthirsecretfoe,andscap’dHaplysoscap’dhismortalsnare;fornowSatan,nowfirstinflam’dwithrage,camedown,TheTempterereth’Accuserofman-kind,(10)TowreckoninnocentfrailmanhislossOfthatfirstBattel,andhisflighttoHell:Yetnotrejoycinginhisspeed,thoughbold,Faroffandfearless,norwithcausetoboast,Beginshisdireattempt,whichnighthebirthNowrowling,boilesinhistumultuousbrest,AndlikeadevillishEnginebackrecoilesUponhimself;horroranddoubtdistractHistroubl’dthoughts,andfromthebottomstirrTheHellwithinhim,forwithinhimHell(20)Hebrings,androundabouthim,norfromHellOnestepnomorethenfromhimselfcanflyBychangeofplace:NowconsciencewakesdespairThatslumberd,wakesthebittermemorieOfwhathewas,whatis,andwhatmustbeWorse;ofworsedeedsworsesufferingsmustensue.

SometimestowardsEdenwhichnowinhisviewLaypleasant,hisgrievdlookhefixessad,SometimestowardsHeav’nandthefull-blazingSun,WhichnowsathighinhisMeridianTowre:(30)Thenmuchrevolving,thusinsighsbegan.OthouthatwithsurpassingGlorycrownd,Look’stfromthysoleDominionliketheGodOfthisnewWorld;atwhosesightalltheStarrsHidethirdiminishtheads;totheeIcall,Butwithnofriendlyvoice,andaddthynameOSun,totelltheehowIhatethybeamsThatbringtomyremembrancefromwhatstateIfell,howgloriousonceabovethySpheare;TillPrideandworseAmbitionthrewmedown(40)WarringinHeav’nagainstHeav’nsmatchlessKing:Ahwherefore!hedeservdnosuchreturnFromme,whomhecreatedwhatIwasInthatbrighteminence,andwithhisgoodUpbraidednone;norwashisservicehard.Whatcouldbelessthentoaffordhimpraise,Theeasiestrecompence,andpayhimthanks,Howdue!yetallhisgoodprov’dillinme,Andwroughtbutmalice;liftedupsohighIsdeindsubjection,andthoughtonestephigher(50)Wouldsetmehighest,andinamomentquitThedebtimmenseofendlessgratitude,Soburthensome,stillpaying,stilltoow;ForgetfulwhatfromhimIstillreceivd,

AndunderstoodnotthatagratefulmindByowingowesnot,butstillpays,atonceIndebtedanddischargd;whatburdenthen?OhadhispowerfulDestinyordaindMesomeinferiourAngel,IhadstoodThenhappie;nounboundedhopehadrais’d(60)Ambition.Yetwhynot?somotherPowerAsgreatmighthaveaspir’d,andmethoughmeanDrawntohispart;butotherPowersasgreatFellnot,butstandunshak’n,fromwithinOrfromwithout,toalltemptationsarm’d.HadstthouthesamefreeWillandPowertostand?Thouhadst:whomhastthouthenorwhattoaccuse,ButHeav’nsfreeLovedealtequallytoall?BethenhisLoveaccurst,sinceloveorhate,Tomealike,itdealseternalwoe.(70)Naycurs’dbethou;sinceagainsthisthywillChosefreelywhatitnowsojustlyrues.Memiserable!whichwayshallIflieInfinitewrauth,andinfinitedespaire?WhichwayIflieisHell;myselfamHell;AndinthelowestdeepalowerdeepStillthreatningtodevourmeopenswide,TowhichtheHellIsufferseemsaHeav’n.Othenatlastrelent:istherenoplaceLeftforRepentance,noneforPardonleft?(80)Noneleftbutbysubmission;andthatwordDisdainforbidsme,andmydreadofshame

AmongtheSpiritsbeneath,whomIseduc’dWithotherpromisesandothervauntsThentosubmit,boastingIcouldsubdueTh’Omnipotent.Ayme,theylittleknowHowdearlyIabidethatboastsovaine,UnderwhattormentsinwardlyIgroane;WhiletheyadoremeontheThroneofHell,WithDiademandScepterhighadvanc’d(90)ThelowerstillIfall,onelySupreamInmiserie;suchjoyAmbitionfindes.ButsayIcouldrepentandcouldobtaineByActofGracemyformerstate;howsoonWouldhigthrecallhighthoughts,howsoonunsayWhatfeign’dsubmissionswore:easewouldrecantVowsmadeinpain,asviolentandvoid.FornevercantruereconcilementgrowWherewoundsofdeadlyhatehavepeirc’dsodeep:Whichwouldbutleadmetoaworserelapse,(100)Andheavierfall:soshouldIpurchasedeareShortintermissionboughtwithdoublesmart.Thisknowsmypunisher;thereforeasfarrFromgrantinghee,asIfrombeggingpeace:Allhopeexcludedthus,beholdinsteadOfusout-cast,exil’d,hisnewdelight,Mankindcreated,andforhimthisWorld.SofarewelHope,andwithHopefarewelFear,FarewelRemorse:allGoodtomeislost;

EvilbethoumyGood;bytheeatleast(110)DividedEmpirewithHeav’nsKingIholdBythee,andmorethenhalfperhapswillreigne;AsManerelong,andthisnewWorldshallknow.Thuswhilehespake,eachpassiondimm’dhisfaceThricechang’dwithpale,ire,envieanddespair,Whichmarrdhisborrow’dvisage,andbetraidHimcounterfet,ifanyeyebeheld.Forheav’nlymindesfromsuchdistempersfouleAreevercleer.Whereofheesoonaware,Eachperturbationsmooth’dwithoutwardcalme,(120)Artificeroffraud;andwasthefirstThatpractisdfalshoodundersaintlyshew,Deepmalicetoconceale,couch’twithrevenge:YetnotanoughhadpractisdtodeceiveUrieloncewarnd;whoseeyepursu’dhimdownThewayhewent,andonth’AssyrianmountSawhimdisfigur’d,morethencouldbefallSpiritofhappiesort:hisgesturesfierceHemarkdandmaddemeanour,thenalone,Ashesuppos’d,allunobserv’d,unseen.(130)Soonhefares,andtothebordercomesOfEden,wheredeliciousParadise,Nownearer,Crownswithherenclosuregreen,AswitharuralmoundthechampainheadOfasteepwilderness,whosehairiesidesWiththicketovergrown,grottesqueandwilde,Accessdeni’d;andoverheadupgrew

Insuperablehighthofloftiestshade,Cedar,andPine,andFirr,andbranchingPalm,ASilvanScene,andastheranksascend(140)Shadeaboveshade,awoodieTheatreOfstateliestview.YethigherthenthirtopsTheverdurouswallofParadiseupsprung:WhichtoourgeneralSiregaveprospectlargeIntohisneatherEmpireneighbouringround.AndhigherthenthatWallacirclingrowOfgoodliestTreesloadenwithfairestFruit,BlossomsandFruitsatonceofgoldenhueAppeerd,withgayenameldcoloursmixt:OnwhichtheSunmoregladimpress’dhisbeams(150)TheninfairEveningCloud,orhumidBow,WhenGodhathshowrdtheearth;solovelyseemdThatLantskip:AndofpurenowpureraireMeetshisapproach,andtotheheartinspiresVernaldelightandjoy,abletodriveAllsadnessbutdespair:nowgentlegalesFanningthirodoriferouswingsdispenseNativeperfumes,andwhisperwhencetheystoleThosebalmiespoiles.AswhentothemwhosaileBeyondtheCapeofHope,andnowarepast(160)Mozambic,offatSeaNorth-EastwindesblowSabeanOdoursfromthespicieshoareOfArabietheblest,withsuchdelayWellpleas’dtheyslackthircourse,andmanyaLeagueChear’dwiththegratefulsmelloldOceansmiles.

SoentertaindthoseodoroussweetstheFiendWhocamethirbane,thoughwiththembetterpleas’dThenAsmodeuswiththefishiefume,Thatdrovehim,thoughenamourd,fromtheSpouseOfTobitsSon,andwithavengeancesent(170)FromMediaposttoÆgypt,therefastbound.Nowtoth’ascentofthatsteepsavageHillSatanhadjourniedon,pensiveandslow;Butfurtherwayfoundnone,sothickentwin’d,Asonecontinu’dbrake,theundergrowthOfshrubsandtanglingbusheshadperplextAllpathofManorBeastthatpastthatway:OneGatethereonelywas,andthatlook’dEastOnth’otherside:whichwhenth’arch-fellonsawDueentrancehedisdaind,andincontempt,(180)Atoneslightboundhighoverleap’dallboundOfHillorhighestWall,andsheerwithinLightsonhisfeet.AswhenaprowlingWolfe,Whomhungerdrivestoseeknewhauntforprey,WatchingwhereShepherdspenthirFlocksateeveInhurdl’dCotesamidthefieldsecure,Leapso’rethefencewitheaseintotheFould:OrasaThiefbenttounhoordthecashOfsomerichBurgher,whosesubstantialdores,Cross-barrdandboltedfast,fearnoassault,(190)Inatthewindowclimbes,oro’rethetiles;SoclombthisfirstgrandThiefintoGodsFould:

SosinceintohisChurchlewdHirelingsclimbe.Thenceupheflew,andontheTreeofLife,ThemiddleTreeandhighesttherethatgrew,SatlikeaCormorant;yetnottrueLifeTherebyregaind,butsatdevisingDeathTothemwholiv’d;noronthevertuethoughtOfthatlife-givingPlant,butonlyus’dForprospect,whatwellus’dhadbinthepledge(200)Ofimmortalitie.SolittleknowsAny,butGodalone,tovaluerightThegoodbeforehim,butpervertsbestthingsToworstabuse,ortothirmeanestuse.BeneathhimwithnewwondernowheviewsToalldelightofhumansenseexpos’dInnarrowroomNatureswholewealth,yeamore,AHeavenonEarth,forblissfulParadiseOfGodtheGardenwas,byhimintheEastOfEdenplanted;EdenstretchdherLine(210)FromAuranEastwardtotheRoyalTowrsOfGreatSeleucia,builtbyGrecianKings,OrwheretheSonsofEdenlongbeforeDweltinTelassar:inthispleasantsoileHisfarrmorepleasantGardenGodordaind;Outofthefertilgroundhecaus’dtogrowAllTreesofnoblestkindforsight,smell,taste;AndallamidthemstoodtheTreeofLife,Higheminent,bloomingAmbrosialFruitOfvegetableGold;andnexttoLife(220)

OurDeaththeTreeofKnowledgegrewfastby,KnowledgeofGoodboughtdearbyknowingill.SouthwardthroughEdenwentaRiverlarge,Norchang’dhiscourse,butthroughtheshaggiehillPass’dunderneathingulft,forGodhadthrownThatMountainashisGardenmouldhighrais’dUpontherapidcurrent,whichthroughveinsOfporousEarthwithkindlythirstupdrawn,RoseafreshFountain,andwithmanyarillWaterdtheGarden;thenceunitedfell(230)Downthesteepglade,andmettheneatherFlood,Whichfromhisdarksompassagenowappeers,AndnowdividedintofourmainStreams,Runsdivers,wandringmanyafamousRealmeAndCountrywhereofhereneedsnoaccount,Butrathertotellhow,ifArtcouldtell,HowfromthatSaphireFountthecrispedBrooks,RowlingonOrientPearlandsandsofGold,WithmazieerrorunderpendantshadesRanNectar,visitingeachplant,andfed(240)FloursworthyofParadisewhichnotniceArtInBedsandcuriousKnots,butNatureboonPowrdforthprofuseonHillandDaleandPlaine,BothwherethemorningSunfirstwarmlysmoteTheopenfield,andwheretheunpierc’tshadeImbroundthenoontideBowrs:Thuswasthisplace,Ahappyruralseatofvariousview;GroveswhoserichTreesweptodorousGummsandBalme,

OtherswhosefruitburnishtwithGoldenRindeHungamiable,HesperianFablestrue,(250)Iftrue,hereonely,andofdelicioustaste:BetwixtthemLawns,orlevelDowns,andFlocksGrasingthetenderherb,wereinterpos’d,Orpalmiehilloc,ortheflourielapOfsomirriguousValleyspreadherstore,Floursofallhue,andwithoutThorntheRose:Anotherside,umbrageousGrotsandCavesOfcoolerecess,o’rewhichthemantlingVineLayesforthherpurpleGrape,andgentlycreepsLuxuriant;meanwhilemurmuringwatersfall(260)Downtheslopehills,disperst,orinaLake,ThattothefringedBankwithMyrtlecrownd,Herchrystallmirrorholds,unitethirstreams.TheBirdsthirquireapply;aires,vernalaires,Breathingthesmelloffieldandgrove,attuneThetremblingleaves,whileUniversalPanKnitwiththeGracesandtheHoursindanceLedonth’EternalSpring.NotthatfairefieldOfEnna,whereProserpingathringfloursHerselfafairerFlourebygloomieDis(270)Wasgatherd,whichcostCeresallthatpainToseekherthroughtheworld;northatsweetGroveOfDaphnebyOrontes,andth’inspir’dCastalianSpringmightwiththisParadiseOfEdenstrive;northatNyseianIle

GirtwiththeRiverTriton,whereoldCham,WhomGentilesAmmoncallandLybianJove,HidAmaltheaandherFloridSonYoungBacchusfromhisStepdameRhea’seye;NorwhereAbassinKingsthirissueGuard,(280)MountAmara,thoughthisbysomsuppos’dTrueParadiseundertheEthiopLineByNilushead,enclos’dwithshiningRock,Awholedayesjourneyhigh,butwideremoteFromthisAssyrianGarden,wheretheFiendSawundelightedalldelight,allkindOflivingCreaturesnewtosightandstrange:Twooffarnoblershapeerectandtall,Godlikeerect,withnativeHonourcladInnakedMajestieseemdLordsofall,(290)Andworthieseemd,forinthirlooksDivineTheimageofthirgloriousMakershon,Truth,Wisdome,Sanctitudesevereandpure,Severe,butintruefilialfreedomplac’t;Whencetrueautoritieinmen;thoughbothNotequal,asthirsexnotequalseemd;Forcontemplationheeandvalourformd,ForsoftnesssheeandsweetattractiveGrace,HeeforGodonly,sheeforGodinhim:HisfairlargeFrontandEyesublimedeclar’d(300)Absoluterule;andHyacinthinLocksRoundfromhispartedforelockmanlyhungClustring,butnotbeneathhisshouldersbroad:

SheeasavaildowntotheslenderwasteHerunadornedgoldentressesworeDisheveld,butinwantonringletswav’dAstheVinecurleshertendrils,whichimpli’dSubjection,butrequir’dwithgentlesway,Andbyheryielded,byhimbestreceivd,Yieldedwithcoysubmission,modestpride,(310)Andsweetreluctantamorousdelay.Northosemysteriouspartswerethenconceald,Thenwasnotguiltieshame,dishonestshameOfnaturesworks,honordishonorable,Sin-bred,howhaveyetroubl’dallmankindWithshewsinstead,meershewsofseemingpure,Andbanishtfrommanslifehishappiestlife,Simplicitieandspotlessinnocence.Sopassdtheynakedon,norshundthesightOfGodorAngel,fortheythoughtnoill:(320)Sohandinhandtheypassd,thelovliestpairThateversinceinlovesimbracesmet,AdamthegoodliestmanofmensinceborneHisSons,thefairestofherDaughtersEve.UnderatuftofshadethatonagreenStoodwhisperingsoft,byafreshFountainsideTheysatthemdown,andafternomoretoilOfthirsweetGardninglabourthensuffic’dTorecommendcooleZephyr,andmadeeaseMoreeasie,wholsomthirstandappetite(330)Moregrateful,tothirSupperFruitstheyfell,

NectarineFruitswhichthecompliantboughesYieldedthem,side-longastheysatreclineOnthesoftdownieBankdamasktwithflours:Thesavouriepulptheychew,andintherindeStillastheythirstedscoopthebrimmingstream;Norgentlepurpose,norendearingsmilesWanted,noryouthfuldallianceasbeseemsFaircouple,linktinhappienuptialLeague,Aloneasthey.Aboutthemfriskingplayd(340)AllBeastsofth’Earth,sincewilde,andofallchaseInWoodorWilderness,ForrestorDen;SportingtheLionrampd,andinhispawDandl’dtheKid;Bears,Tygers,Ounces,PardsGamboldbeforethem,th’unwieldyElephantTomakethemmirthus’dallhismight,andwreathdHisLitheProboscis;closetheSerpentslyInsinuating,wovewithGordiantwineHisbreadedtrain,andofhisfatalguileGaveproofunheeded;othersonthegrass(350)Coucht,andnowfildwithpasturegazingsat,OrBedwardruminating:fortheSunDeclin’dwashastingnowwithpronecarreerToth’OceanIles,andinth’ascendingScaleOfHeav’ntheStarrsthatusherEveningrose:WhenSatanstillingaze,asfirsthestood,Scarcethusatlengthfaildspeechrecoverdsad.OHell!whatdoemineeyeswithgriefbehold,

Intoourroomofblissthushighadvanc’tCreaturesofothermould,earth-bornperhaps,(360)NotSpirits,yettoheav’nlySpiritsbrightLittleinferior;whommythoughtspursueWithwonder,andcouldlove,solivelyshinesInthemDivineresemblance,andsuchgraceThehandthatformdthemonthirshapehathpourd.Ahgentlepair,yeelittlethinkhownighYourchangeapproaches,whenallthesedelightsWillvanishanddeliveryetowoe,Morewoe,themoreyourtasteisnowofjoy;Happie,butforsohappieillsecur’d(370)Longtocontinue,andthishighseatyourHeav’nIllfenc’tforHeav’ntokeepoutsuchafoeAsnowisenterd;yetnopurpos’dfoeToyouwhomIcouldpittiethusforlorneThoughIunpittied:LeaguewithyouIseek,Andmutualamitiesostreight,soclose,ThatIwithyoumustdwell,oryouwithmeHenceforth;mydwellinghaplymaynotpleaseLikethisfairParadise,yoursense,yetsuchAcceptyourMakerswork;hegaveitme,(380)WhichIasfreelygive;Hellshallunfould,Toentertainyoutwo,herwidestGates,AndsendforthallherKings;therewillberoom,Notlikethesenarrowlimits,toreceiveYournumerousofspring;ifnobetterplace,Thankhimwhoputsmeloathtothisrevenge

Onyouwhowrongmenotforhimwhowrongd.AndshouldIatyourharmlessinnocenceMelt,asIdoe,yetpublicreasonjust,HonourandEmpirewithrevengeenlarg’d,(390)ByconqueringthisnewWorld,compelsmenowTodowhatelsethoughdamndIshouldabhorre.SospaketheFiend,andwithnecessitie,TheTyrantsplea,excus’dhisdevilishdeeds.ThenfromhisloftiestandonthathighTreeDownhealightsamongthesportfulHerdOfthosefourfootedkindes,himselfnowone,Nowother,asthirshapeservdbesthisendNeerertoviewhisprey,andunespi’dTomarkwhatofthirstatehemoremightlearn(400)Bywordoractionmarkt:aboutthemroundALionnowhestalkeswithfierieglare,ThenasaTiger,whobychancehathspi’dInsomePurlieutwogentleFawnesatplay,Straitcouchesclose,thenrisingchangesoftHiscouchantwatch,asonewhochosehisgroundWhencerushinghemightsurestseisethembothGriptineachpaw:whenAdamfirstofmenTofirstofwomenEvethusmovingspeech,Turndhimallearetohearenewutteranceflow.(410)Solepartnerandsolepartofallthesejoyes,Dearerthyselfthenall;needsmustthePowerThatmadeus,andforusthisampleWorldBeinfinitlygood,andofhisgood

Asliberalandfreeasinfinite,Thatrais’dusfromthedustandplac’tushereInallthishappiness,whoathishandHavenothingmerited,norcanperformeAughtwhereofheehathneed,heewhorequiresFromusnootherservicethentokeep(420)Thisone,thiseasiecharge,ofalltheTreesInParadisethatbearedeliciousfruitSovarious,nottotastethatonelyTreeOfknowledge,plantedbytheTreeofLife,SoneergrowsDeathtoLife,whatereDeathis,Somdreadfulthingnodoubt;forwellthouknowstGodhathpronounc’titdeathtotastethatTree,TheonlysignofourobedienceleftAmongsomanysignesofpowerandruleConferrduponus,andDominiongiv’n(430)OverallotherCreaturesthatpossessEarth,Aire,andSea.ThenletusnotthinkhardOneeasieprohibition,whoenjoyFreeleavesolargetoallthingselse,andchoiceUnlimitedofmanifolddelights:Butletuseverpraisehim,andextollHisbountie,followingourdelightfultaskToprunethesegrowingPlants,andtendtheseFlours,Whichwereittoilsom,yetwiththeeweresweet.TowhomthusEverepli’d.Othouforwhom(440)AndfromwhomIwasformdfleshofthyflesh,

Andwithoutwhomamtonoend,myGuideAndHead,whatthouhastsaidisjustandright.Forweetohimindeedallpraisesowe,Anddailythanks,IchieflywhoenjoySofarrthehappierLot,enjoyingtheePreëminentbysomuchodds,whilethouLikeconsorttothyselfcanstnowherefind.ThatdayIoftremember,whenfromsleepIfirstawak’t,andfoundmyselfrepos’d(450)Underashadeonflours,muchwondringwhereAndwhatIwas,whencethitherbrought,andhow.NotdistantfarfromthenceamurmuringsoundOfwatersissu’dfromaCaveandspreadIntoaliquidPlain,thenstoodunmov’dPureasth’expanseofHeav’n;IthitherwentWithunexperienc’tthought,andlaidmedowneOnthegreenbank,tolookintothecleerSmoothLake,thattomeseemdanotherSkie.AsIbentdowntolook,justopposite,(460)AShapewithinthewatrygleamappeardBendingtolookonme,Istartedback,Itstartedback,butpleasdIsoonreturnd,Pleas’ditreturndassoonwithansweringlooksOfsympathieandlove;thereIhadfixtMineeyestillnow,andpin’dwithvaindesire,Hadnotavoicethuswarndme,Whatthouseest,WhattherethouseestfairCreatureisthyself,Withtheeitcameandgoes:butfollowme,

AndIwillbringtheewherenoshadowstaies(470)Thycoming,andthysoftimbraces,heeWhoseimagethouart,himthoushallenjoyInseparabliethine,tohimshaltbeareMultitudeslikethyself,andthencebecall’dMotherofhumanRace:whatcouldIdoe,Butfollowstrait,invisiblythusled?TillIespi’dthee,fairindeedandtall,UnderaPlatan,yetmethoughtlessfaire,Lesswinningsoft,lessamiabliemilde,Thenthatsmoothwatryimage;backIturnd,(480)Thoufollowingcryd’staloud,ReturnfaireEve,Whomfli’stthou?whomthoufli’st,ofhimthouart,Hisflesh,hisbone;togivetheebeingIlentOutofmysidetothee,neerestmyheartSubstantialLife,tohavetheebymysideHenceforthanindividualsolacedear;PartofmySoulIseekthee,andtheeclaimMyotherhalf:withthatthygentlehandSeisdmine,Iyielded,andfromthattimeseeHowbeautyisexcelldbymanlygrace(490)Andwisdom,whichaloneistrulyfair.SospakeourgeneralMother,andwitheyesOfconjugalattractionunreprov’d,Andmeeksurrender,halfimbracingleandOnourfirstFather,halfherswellingBreastNakedmethisundertheflowingGoldOfherloosetresseshid:heindelight

BothofherBeautyandsubmissiveCharmsSmil’dwithsuperiorLove,asJupiterOnJunosmiles,whenheimpregnstheClouds(500)ThatshedMayFlowers;andpress’dherMatronlipWithkissespure:asidetheDevilturndForenvie,yetwithjealousleermaligneEy’dthemaskance,andtohimselfthusplaind.Sighthateful,sighttormenting!thusthesetwoImparadis’tinoneanothersarmsThehappierEden,shallenjoythirfillOfblissonbliss,whileItoHellamthrust,Whereneitherjoynorlove,butfiercedesire,Amongourothertormentsnottheleast,(510)Stillunfulfill’dwithpainoflongingpines;YetletmenotforgetwhatIhavegain’dFromthirownmouths;allisnottheirsitseems:OnefatalTreetherestandsofKnowledgecall’d,Forbiddenthemtotaste:Knowledgeforbidd’n?Suspicious,reasonless.WhyshouldthirLordEnviethemthat?canitbesintoknow,Canitbedeath?anddotheyonelystandByIgnorance,isthatthirhappiestate,Theproofofthirobedienceandthirfaith?(520)OfairfoundationlaidwhereontobuildThirruine!HenceIwillexcitethirmindsWithmoredesiretoknow,andtorejectEnviouscommands,inventedwithdesigne

TokeepthemlowwhomknowledgemightexaltEqualwithGods;aspiringtobesuch,Theytasteanddie:whatlikeliercanensue?ButfirstwithnarrowsearchImustwalkroundThisGarden,andnocornerleaveunspi’d;AchancebutchancemayleadwhereImaymeet(530)SomewandringSpiritofHeav’n,byFountainside,Orinthickshaderetir’d,fromhimtodrawWhatfurtherwouldbelearnt.Livewhileyemay,Yethappiepair;enjoy,tillIreturn,Shortpleasures,forlongwoesaretosucceed.Sosaying,hisproudstephescornfulturn’d,Butwithslycircumspection,andbeganThroughwood,throughwaste,o’rehill,o’redalehisroam.MeanwhileinutmostLongitude,whereHeav’nWithEarthandOceanmeets,thesettingSun(540)Slowlydescended,andwithrightaspectAgainsttheeasternGateofParadiseLeveldhiseevningRayes:itwasaRockOfAlablaster,pil’duptotheClouds,Conspicuousfarr,windingwithoneascentAccessiblefromEarth,oneentrancehigh;Therestwascraggiecliff,thatoverhungStillasitrose,impossibletoclimbe.BetwixttheserockiePillarsGabrielsatChiefofth’AngelicGuards,awaitingnight;(550)Abouthimexercis’dHeroicGamesTh’unarmedYouthofHeav’n,butnighathand

CelestialArmourie,Shields,Helmes,andSpearesHunghighwithDiamondflaming,andwithGold.ThithercameUriel,glidingthroughtheEevenOnaSunbeam,swiftasashootingStarrInAutumnthwartsthenight,whenvaporsfir’dImpresstheAir,andshewstheMarinerFromwhatpointofhisCompasstobewareImpetuouswinds:hethusbeganinhaste.(560)Gabriel,totheethycoursebyLothathgiv’nChargeandstrictwatchthattothishappieplaceNoevilthingapproachorenterin;ThisdayathighthofNooncametomySpheareASpirit,zealous,asheseem’d,toknowMoreofth’Almightiesworks,andchieflyManGodslatestImage:Idescrib’dhiswayBentallonspeed,andmarkthisAerieGate;ButintheMountthatliesfromEdenNorth,Wherehefirstlighted,soondiscerndhislooks(570)AlienfromHeav’n,withpassionsfoulobscur’d:Mineeyepursu’dhimstill,butundershadeLostsightofhim;oneofthebanishtcrewIfear,hathventur’dfromtheDeep,toraiseNewtroubles;himthycaremustbetofind.TowhomthewingedWarriourthusreturnd:Uriel,nowonderifthyperfetsight,AmidtheSunsbrightcirclewherethousitst,Seefarrandwide:inatthisGatenonepassThevigilancehereplac’t,butsuchascome(580)

WellknownfromHeav’n;andsinceMeridianhourNoCreaturethence:ifSpiritofothersort,Sominded,haveoreleapttheseearthieboundsOnpurpose,hardthouknowstittoexcludeSpiritualsubstancewithcorporealbarr.Butifwithinthecircuitofthesewalks,Inwhatsoevershapehelurk,ofwhomThoutellst,bymorrowdawningIshallknow.Sopromis’dhee,andUrieltohischargeReturndonthatbrightbeam,whosepointnowrais’d(590)BorehimslopedownwardtotheSunnowfall’nBeneathth’Azores;whithertheprimeOrb,Incrediblehowswift,hadthitherrowl’dDiurnal,orthislessvolubilEarthByshorterflighttoth’East,hadlefthimthereArrayingwithreflectedPurpleandGoldTheCloudsthatonhisWesternThroneattend:NowcamestillEevningon,andTwilightgrayHadinhersoberLiverieallthingsclad;Silenceaccompanied,forBeastandBird,(600)TheytothirgrassieCouch,thesetothirNestsWereslunk,allbutthewakefulNightingale;Sheallnightlongheramorousdescantsung;Silencewaspleas’d:nowglow’dtheFirmamentWithlivingSaphirs:HesperusthatledThestarrieHost,rodebrightest,tilltheMoonRisingincloudedMajestie,atlength

ApparentQueenunvaildherpeerlesslight,Ando’rethedarkherSilverMantlethrew.WhenAdamthustoEve:FairConsort,th’hour(610)Ofnight,andallthingsnowretir’dtorestMindusoflikerepose,sinceGodhathsetLabourandrest,asdayandnighttomenSuccessive,andthetimelydewofsleepNowfallingwithsoftslumbrousweightinclinesOureye-lids;otherCreaturesalldaylongRoveidleunimploid,andlessneedrest;ManhathhisdailyworkofbodyormindAppointed,whichdeclareshisDignitie,AndtheregardofHeav’nonallhiswaies;(620)WhileotherAnimalsunactiverange,AndofthirdoingsGodtakesnoaccount.TomorrowerefreshMorningstreaktheEastWithfirstapproachoflight,wemustberis’n,Andatourpleasantlabour,toreformYonflourieArbors,yonderAlliesgreen,Ourwalksatnoon,withbranchesovergrown,Thatmockourscantmanuring,andrequireMorehandsthenourstolopthirwantongrowth:ThoseBlossomsalso,andthosedroppingGumms,(630)Thatliebestrowneunsightlyandunsmooth,Askriddance,ifwemeantotreadwithease;Meanwhile,asNaturewills,Nightbidsusrest.TowhomthusEvewithperfetbeautyadornd.MyAuthorandDisposer,whatthoubidst

Unargu’dIobey;soGodordains,GodisthyLaw,thoumine:toknownomoreIswomanshappiestknowledgeandherpraise.WiththeeconversingIforgetalltime,Allseasonsandthirchange,allpleasealike.(640)Sweetisthebreathofmorn,herrisingsweet,WithcharmofearliestBirds;pleasanttheSunWhenfirstonthisdelightfulLandhespreadsHisorientBeams,onherb,tree,fruit,andflour,Glistringwithdew;fragrantthefertilearthAftersoftshowers;andsweetthecomingonOfgratefulEveningmilde,thensilentNightWiththishersolemnBirdandthisfairMoon,AndthesetheGemmsofHeav’n,herstarrietrain:ButneitherbreathofMornwhensheascends(650)WithcharmofearliestBirds,norrisingSunOnthisdelightfulland,norherb,fruit,floure,Glistringwithdew,norfragranceaftershowers,NorgratefulEevningmild,norsilentNightWiththishersolemnBird,norwalkbyMoon,OrglitteringStarr-lightwithouttheeissweet.Butwherforeallnightlongshinethese,forwhomThisglorioussight,whensleephathshutalleyes?TowhomourgeneralAncestorrepli’d.DaughterofGodandMan,accomplishtEve,(660)Thosehavethircoursetofinish,roundtheEarth,BymorrowEevning,andfromLandtoLandInorder,thoughtoNationsyetunborn,

Ministringlightprepar’d,theysetandrise;LeasttotaldarknessshouldbyNightregaineHeroldpossession,andextinguishlifeInNatureandallthings,whichthesesoftfiresNotonlyenlighten,butwithkindlyheateOfvariousinfluencefomentandwarme,Temperornourish,orinpartsheddown(670)ThirstellarvertueonallkindsthatgrowOnEarth,madeherebyaptertoreceivePerfectionfromtheSunsmorepotentRay.Thesethen,thoughunbeheldindeepofnight,Shinenotinvain,northink,thoughmenwerenone,Thatheav’nwouldwantspectators,Godwantpraise;MillionsofspiritualCreatureswalktheEarthUnseen,bothwhenwewake,andwhenwesleep:AllthesewithceaslesspraisehisworksbeholdBothdayandnight:howoftenfromthesteep(680)OfechoingHillorThickethaveweheardCelestialvoicestothemidnightair,Sole,orresponsiveeachtoothersnoteSingingthirgreatCreator:oftinbandsWhiletheykeepwatch,ornightlyroundingwalkWithHeav’nlytouchofinstrumentalsoundsInfullharmonicnumberjoind,thirsongsDividethenight,andliftourthoughtstoHeaven.Thustalkinghandinhandalonetheypass’dOntothirblissfulBower;itwasaplace(690)

Chos’nbythesovranPlanter,whenhefram’dAllthingstomansdelightfuluse;theroofeOfthickestcovertwasinwovenshadeLaurelandMirtle,andwhathighergrewOffirmandfragrantleaf;oneithersideAcanthus,andeachodorousbushieshrubFenc’duptheverdantwall;eachbeauteousflour,Irisallhues,Roses,andGessaminRear’dhighthirflourishtheadsbetween,andwroughtMosaic;underfoottheViolet,(700)Crocus,andHyacinthwithrichinlayBroiderdtheground,morecolour’dthenwithstoneOfcostliestEmblem:otherCreaturehereBeast,Bird,Insect,orWormdurstenternone;SuchwasthiraweofMan.InshadierBowerMoresacredandsequesterd,thoughbutfeignd,PanorSilvanusneverslept,norNymph,NorFaunushaunted.HereincloserecessWithFlowers,Garlands,andsweet-smellingHerbsEspousedEvedecktfirstherNuptialBed,(710)Andheav’nlyQuirestheHymenæansung,WhatdaythegenialAngeltoourSireBroughtherinnakedbeautymoreadorn’dMorelovelythenPandora,whomtheGodsEndowdwithallthirgifts,andOtoolikeInsadevent,whentotheunwiserSonOfJaphetbroughtbyHermes,sheensnar’dMankindwithherfairelooks,tobeaveng’d

OnhimwhohadstoleJovesauthenticfire.ThusatthirshadieLodgearriv’d,bothstood,(720)Bothturnd,andunderop’nSkieador’dTheGodthatmadebothSkie,Air,EarthandHeav’nWhichtheybeheld,theMoonsresplendentGlobeAndstarriePole:Thoualsomad’sttheNight,MakerOmnipotent,andthoutheDay,WhichweinourappointedworkimploydHavefinishthappieinourmutualhelpAndmutuallove,theCrownofallourblissOrdain’dbythee,andthisdeliciousplaceForustoolarge,wherethyabundancewants(730)Partakers,anduncroptfallstotheground.Butthouhastpromis’dfromustwoaRaceTofilltheEarth,whoshallwithusextollThygoodnessinfinite,bothwhenwewake,Andwhenweseek,asnow,thygiftofsleep.Thissaidunanimous,andotherRitesObservingnone,butadorationpureWhichGodlikesbest,intothirinmostbowerHandedtheywent;andeas’dtheputtingoffThesetroublesomdisguiseswhichweewear,(740)Straitsidebysidewerelaid,norturndIweeneAdamfromhisfairSpouse,norEvetheRitesMysteriousofconnubialLoverefus’d:WhateverHypocritesausterelytalkOfpuritieandplaceandinnocence,DefamingasimpurewhatGoddeclares

Pure,andcommandstosom,leavesfreetoall.OurMakerbidsincrease,whobidsabstainButourDestroyer,foetoGodandMan?HaileweddedLove,mysteriousLaw,truesource(750)Ofhumanofspring,soleproprietie,InParadiseofallthingscommonelse.Bytheeadulterouslustwasdriv’nfrommenAmongthebestialherdstoraunge,bytheeFoundedinReason,Loyal,Just,andPure,Relationsdear,andalltheCharitiesOfFather,Son,andBrotherfirstwereknown.Farrbeit,thatIshouldwritetheesinorblame,Orthinktheeunbefittingholiestplace,PerpetualFountainofDomesticsweets,(760)Whosebedisundefil’dandchastpronounc’t,Present,orpast,asSaintsandPatriarchsus’d.HereLovehisgoldenshaftsimploies,herelightsHisconstantLamp,andwaveshispurplewings,Reignshereandrevels;notintheboughtsmileOfHarlots,loveless,joyless,unindeard,Casualfruition,norinCourtAmoursMixtDance,orwantonMask,orMidnightBal,OrSerenate,whichthestarv’dLoversingsTohisproudfair,bestquittedwithdisdain.(770)TheselulldbyNightingalesimbraceingslept,AndonthirnakedlimbstheflourieroofShowrdRoses,whichtheMornrepair’d.Sleepon

Blestpair;andOyethappiestifyeseekNohappierstate,andknowtoknownomore.Nowhadnightmeasur’dwithhershaddowieConeHalfwayupHillthisvastSublunarVault,AndfromthirIvoriePorttheCherubimForthissuingatth’accustomdhourstoodarmdTothirnightwatchesinwarlikeParade,(780)WhenGabrieltohisnextinpowerthusspake.Uzziel,halfthesedrawoff,andcoasttheSouthWithstrictestwatch;theseotherwheeltheNorth,OurcircuitmeetsfullWest.AsflametheypartHalfwheelingtotheShield,halftotheSpear.Fromthese,twostrongandsuttleSpiritshecalldThatneerhimstood,andgavethemthusincharge.IthurielandZephon,withwingdspeedSearchthroughthisGarden,leaveunsearchtnonook,ButchieflywherethosetwofairCreaturesLodge,(790)Nowlaidperhapsasleepsecureofharme.ThisEevningfromtheSun’sdeclinearriv’dWhotellsofsominfernalSpiritseenHitherwardbent(whocouldhavethought?)escap’dThebarrsofHell,onerrandbadnodoubt:Suchwhereyefind,seisefast,andhitherbring.Sosaying,onheledhisradiantFiles,Daz’lingtheMoon;thesetotheBowerdirectInsearchofwhomtheysought:himtheretheyfoundSquatlikeaToad,closeattheeareofEve;(800)AssayingbyhisDevilisharttoreach

TheOrgansofherFancie,andwiththemforgeIllusionsashelist,PhantasmsandDreams,Orif,inspiringvenom,hemighttaintTh’animalSpiritsthatfrompurebloodariseLikegentlebreathsfromRiverspure,thenceraiseAtleastdistemperd,discontentedthoughts,Vainhopes,vainaimes,inordinatedesiresBlownupwithhighconceitsingendringpride.HimthusintentIthurielwithhisSpear(810)Touch’dlightly;fornofalshoodcanendureTouchofCelestialtemper,butreturnsOfforcetoitsownlikeness:uphestartsDiscoverdandsurpriz’d.AswhenasparkLightsonaheapofnitrousPowder,laidFitfortheTunsomMagazintostoreAgainstarumordWarr,theSmuttiegraineWithsuddenblazediffus’d,inflamestheAire:SostartedupinhisownshapetheFiend.BacksteptthosetwofairAngelshalfamaz’d(820)SosuddentobeholdthegrieslieKing;Yetthus,unmovdwithfear,accosthimsoon.WhichofthoserebellSpiritsadjudg’dtoHellCom’stthou,escap’dthyprison,andtransform’d,WhysatstthoulikeanenemieinwaiteHerewatchingattheheadofthesethatsleep?KnowyenotthensaidSatan,fill’dwithscornKnowyenotme?yeknewmeoncenomateForyou,theresittingwhereyedurstnotsoare;

Nottoknowmeearguesyourselvesunknown,(830)Thelowestofyourthrong;orifyeknow,Whyaskye,andsuperfluousbeginYourmessage,liketoendasmuchinvain?TowhomthusZephon,answeringscornwithscorn.Thinknot,revoltedSpirit,thyshapethesame,Orundiminishtbrightness,tobeknownAswhenthoustoodstinHeav’nuprightandpure;ThatGloriethen,whenthounomorewastgood,Departedfromthee,andthouresembl’stnowThysinandplaceofdoomobscureandfoule.(840)Butcome,forthou,besure,shaltgiveaccountTohimwhosentus,whosechargeistokeepThisplaceinviolable,andthesefromharm.SospaketheCherube,andhisgraverebukeSevereinyouthfulbeautie,addedgraceInvincible:abashttheDevilstood,Andfelthowawfulgoodnessis,andsawVertueinhershapehowlovly,saw,andpin’dHisloss;butchieflytofindhereobservdHislustrevisiblyimpair’d;yetseemd(850)Undaunted.IfImustcontend,saidhe,Bestwiththebest,theSendernotthesent,Orallatonce;moregloriewillbewonn,Orlessbelost.Thyfear,saidZephonbold,WillsaveustrialwhattheleastcandoeSingleagainsttheewicked,andthenceweak.

TheFiendrepli’dnot,overcomewithrage;ButlikeaproudSteedreind,wenthautieon,Chaumpinghisironcurb:tostriveorflieHehelditvain;awefromabovehadquelld(860)Hisheart,notelsedismai’d.NowdrewtheynighThewesternpoint,wherethosehalf-roundingguardsJustmet,andclosingstoodinsquadronjoindAwaitingnextcommand.TowhomthirChiefGabrielfromtheFrontthuscalldaloud.Ofriends,IhearthetreadofnimblefeetHastingthisway,andnowbyglimpsdiscerneIthurielandZephonthroughtheshade,AndwiththemcomesathirdofRegalport,Butfadedsplendorwan;whobyhisgate(870)AndfiercedemeanourseemsthePrinceofHell,Notlikelytoparthencewithoutcontest;Standfirm,forinhislookdefiancelours.Hescarcehadended,whenthosetwoapproachdAndbriefrelatedwhomtheybrought,wherfound,Howbusied,inwhatformandposturecoucht.TowhomwithsternregardthusGabrielspake.Whyhastthou,Satan,broketheboundsprescrib’dTothytransgressions,anddisturbdthechargeOfothers,whoapprovenottotransgress(880)Bythyexample,buthavepowerandrightToquestionthyboldentranceonthisplace;Imploi’ditseemstoviolatesleep,andthoseWhosedwellingGodhathplantedhereinbliss?

TowhomthusSatanwithcontemptuousbrow.Gabriel,thouhadstinHeav’nth’esteemofwise,AndsuchIheldthee;butthisquestionasktPutsmeindoubt.Livestherwholoveshispain?Whowouldnot,findingway,breakloosefromHell,Thoughthitherdoomd?Thouwouldstthyself,nodoubt,(890)AndboldlyventuretowhateverplaceFarthestfrompain,wherethoumightsthopetochangeTormentwithease,andsoonestrecompenceDolewithdelight,whichinthisplaceIsought;Totheenoreason;whoknowstonlygood,Butevilhastnottri’d:andwiltobjectHiswillwhoboundus?lethimsurerbarrHisIronGates,ifheintendsourstayInthatdarkdurance:thusmuchwhatwasaskt.Therestistrue,theyfoundmewheretheysay;(900)Butthatimpliesnotviolenceorharme.Thusheinscorn.ThewarlikeAngelmov’d,Disdainfullyhalfsmilingthusrepli’d.OlossofoneinHeav’ntojudgeofwise,SinceSatanfell,whomfollieoverthrew,Andnowreturnshimfromhisprisonscap’t,GravelyindoubtwhethertoholdthemwiseOrnot,whoaskwhatboldnessbroughthimhitherUnlicenc’tfromhisboundsinHellprescrib’d;Sowisehejudgesittoflyfrompain(910)However,andtoscapehispunishment.Sojudgethoustill,presumptuous,tillthewrauth,

Whichthouincurr’stbyflying,meetthyflightSeavenfold,andscourgethatwisdombacktoHell,Whichtaughttheeyetnobetter,thatnopainCanequalangerinfiniteprovok’t.Butwhereforethoualone?whereforewiththeeCamenotallHellbrokeloose?ispaintothemLesspain,lesstobefled,orthouthentheyLesshardietoendure?courageousChief,(920)Thefirstinflightfrompain,hadstthoualleg’dTothydesertedhostthiscauseofflight,Thousurelyhadstnotcomesolefugitive.TowhichtheFiendthusanswerdfrowningstern.NotthatIlessendure,orshrinkfrompain,InsultingAngel,wellthouknowstIstoodThyfiercest,wheninBatteltothyaideTheblastingvoliedThundermadeallspeedAndsecondedthyelsenotdreadedSpear.Butstillthywordsatrandom,asbefore,(930)ArguethyinexperiencewhatbehoovesFromhardassaiesandillsuccessespastAfaithfulLeader,nottohazardallThroughwayesofdangerbyhimselfuntri’d.Itherefore,IalonefirstundertookTowingthedesolateAbyss,andspieThisnewcreatedWorld,whereofinHellFameisnotsilent,hereinhopetofindBetterabode,andmyafflictedPowers

TosettlehereonEarth,orinmidAire;(940)ThoughforpossessionputtotryoncemoreWhatthouandthygayLegionsdareagainst;WhoseeasierbusinessweretoservethirLordHighupinHeav’n,withsongstohymnehisThrone,Andpractis’ddistancestocringe,notfight.TowhomthewarriourAngelsoonrepli’d.Tosayandstraitunsay,pretendingfirstWisetofliepain,professingnexttheSpie,ArguesnoLeader,butalyartrac’t,Satan,andcouldstthoufaithfuladd?Oname,(950)Osacrednameoffaithfulnessprofan’d!Faithfultowhom?tothyrebelliouscrew?ArmieofFiends,fitbodytofithead;Wasthisyourdisciplineandfaithingag’d,Yourmilitaryobedience,todissolveAllegeancetoth’acknowledg’dPowersupream?Andthouslyhypocrite,whonowwouldstseemPatronofliberty,whomorethenthouOncefawn’d,andcring’d,andservillyador’dHeav’nsawfulMonarch?whereforebutinhope(960)Todispossesshim,andthyselftoreigne?ButmarkwhatIarreedetheenow,avant;Fliethitherwhencethoufledst:iffromthishoureWithinthesehallowdlimitsthouappeer,Backtoth’infernalpitIdragtheechaind,AndSealetheeso,ashenceforthnottoscorneThefacilgatesofhelltooslightlybarrd.

Sothreatn’dhee,butSatantonothreatsGaveheed,butwaxingmoreinragerepli’d.ThenwhenIamthycaptivetalkofchaines,(970)ProudlimitarieCherube,buterethenFarrheavierloadthyselfexpecttofeelFrommyprevailingarme,thoughHeavensKingRideonthywings,andthouwiththyCompeers,Us’dtotheyoak,draw’sthistriumphantwheelsInprogressthroughtherodeofHeav’nStar-pav’d.Whilethushespake,th’AngelicSquadronbrightTurndfieriered,sharpninginmoonedhornesThirPhalanx,andbegantohemmhimroundWithportedSpears,asthickaswhenafield(980)OfCeresripeforharvestwavingbendsHerbeardedGroveofears,whichwaythewindSwayesthem;thecarefulPlowmandoubtingstandsLeastonthethreshingfloorehishopefulsheavesProvechaff.Onth’othersideSatanallarm’dCollectingallhismightdilatedstood,LikeTenerifforAtlasunremov’d:HisstaturereachttheSkie,andonhisCrestSathorrorPlum’d;norwantedinhisgraspeWhatseemdbothSpearandShield:nowdreadfuldeeds(990)Mighthaveensu’d,noronelyParadiseInthiscommotion,buttheStarrieCopeOfHeav’nperhaps,oralltheElementsAtleasthadgontorack,disturbdandtorneWithviolenceofthisconflict,hadnotsoon

Th’EternaltopreventsuchhorridfrayHungforthinHeav’nhisgoldenScales,yetseenBetwixtAstreaandtheScorpionsigne,Whereinallthingscreatedfirstheweighd,ThependulousroundEarthwithbalanc’tAire(1000)Incounterpoise,nowpondersallevents,BattelsandRealms:intheseheputtwoweightsThesequeleachofpartingandoffight;Thelatterquickupflew,andkicktthebeam;WhichGabrielspying,thusbespaketheFiend.Satan,Iknowthystrength,andthouknow’stmine,Neitherourownbutgiv’n;whatfolliethenToboastwhatArmscandoe,sincethinenomoreThenHeav’npermits,normine,thoughdoubldnowTotrampletheeasmire:forprooflookup,(1010)AndreadthyLotinyoncelestialSignWherethouartweigh’d,andshownhowlight,howweak,Ifthouresist.TheFiendlooktupandknewHismountedscalealoft:normore;butfledMurmuring,andwithhimfledtheshadesofnight.

TheEndoftheFourthBook.

Book V

TheArgument

Morning approacht,Everelates toAdamher troublesome dream; he likes it not, yetcomfortsher:Theycomeforthtothirdaylabours:ThirMorningHymnattheDoorof

thir Bower. God to renderMan inexcusable sendsRaphaelto admonish him of hisobedience,of his freeestate,of hisenemynearathand;whohe is,andwhyhisenemy,

andwhatever else may availAdamto know.Raphaelcomes down to Paradise, hisappearance describ’d, his coming discern’d byAdamafar off sitting at the door of hisBower;hegoesouttomeethim,bringshimtohislodge,entertainshimwiththechoycest

fruits of Paradise got together byEve; thir discourse atTable:Raphaelperformshismessage,mindsAdamof hisstateandof hisenemy;relatesatAdamsrequestwhothatenemyis,andhowhecametobeso,beginningfromhisfirstrevoltinHeaven,andthe

occasionthereof;howhedrewhisLegionsafterhimtothepartsof theNorth,andthere

incited them to rebel with him, perswading all but onlyAbdiela Seraph, who inArgumentdiswadesandopposeshim,thenforsakeshim.

NowMornherrosiestepsinth’EasternClimeAdvancing,sow’dtheearthwithOrientPearle,WhenAdamwak’t,socustomd,forhissleepWasAerielight,frompuredigestionbred,Andtemperatvaporsbland,whichth’onlysoundOfleavesandfumingrills,Aurora’sfan,

Lightlydispers’d,andtheshrillMatinSongOfBirdsoneverybough;somuchthemoreHiswonderwastofindunwak’ndEveWithTressesdiscompos’d,andglowingCheek,(10)Asthroughunquietrest:heonhissideLeaninghalf-rais’d,withlooksofcordialLoveHungoverherenamour’d,andbeheldBeautie,whichwhetherwakingorasleep,Shotforthpeculiargraces;thenwithvoiceMilde,aswhenZephyrusonFlorabreathes,Herhandsofttouching,whisperdthus.AwakeMyfairest,myespous’d,mylatestfound,Heav’nslastbestgift,myevernewdelight,Awake,themorningshines,andthefreshfield(20)Callsus,welosetheprime,tomarkhowspringOurtendedPlants,howblowstheCitronGrove,WhatdropstheMyrrhe,andwhatthebalmieReed,HowNaturepaintshercolours,howtheBeeSitsontheBloomextractingliquidsweet.Suchwhisperingwak’dher,butwithstartl’deyeOnAdam,whomimbracing,thusshespake.OSoleinwhommythoughtsfindallrepose,MyGlorie,myPerfection,gladIseeThyface,andMornreturn’d,forIthisNight,(30)SuchnighttillthisIneverpass’d,havedream’d,Ifdream’d,notasIoftamwont,ofthee,Worksofdaypass’t,ormorrowsnextdesigne,Butofoffenceandtrouble,whichmymind

Knewnevertillthisirksomnight;methoughtCloseatmineearonecall’dmeforthtowalkWithgentlevoice,Ithoughtitthine;itsaid,WhysleepstthouEve?nowisthepleasanttime,Thecool,thesilent,savewheresilenceyieldsTothenight-warblingBird,thatnowawake(40)Tunessweetesthislove-labor’dsong;nowreignesFullOrb’dtheMoon,andwithmorepleasinglightShadowiesetsoffthefaceofthings;invain,Ifnoneregard;Heav’nwakeswithallhiseyes,Whomtobeholdbutthee,Naturesdesire,Inwhosesightallthingsjoy,withravishmentAttractedbythybeautystilltogaze.Iroseasatthycall,butfoundtheenot;TofindtheeIdirectedthenmywalk;Andon,methought,aloneIpass’dthroughways(50)ThatbroughtmeonasuddentotheTreeOfinterdictedKnowledge:fairitseem’d,MuchfairertomyFanciethenbyday:AndasIwondringlookt,besideitstoodOneshap’dandwing’dlikeoneofthosefromHeav’nByusoftseen;hisdewielocksdistill’dAmbrosiaonthatTreehealsogaz’d;AndOfairPlant,saidhe,withfruitsurcharg’d,Deignsnonetoeasethyloadandtastethysweet,NorGod,norMan;isKnowledgesodespis’d?(60)Orenvie,orwhatreserveforbidstotaste?Forbidwhowill,noneshallfrommewithhold

Longerthyofferdgood,whyelsesethere?Thissaidhepaus’dnot,butwithventrousArmeHepluckt,hetasted;meedamphorrorchil’dAtsuchboldwordsvouchtwithadeedsobold:Buthethusoverjoy’d,OFruitDivine,Sweetofthyself,butmuchmoresweetthuscropt,Forbidd’nhere,itseems,asonelyfitForGods,yetabletomakeGodsofMen:(70)AndwhynotGodsofMen,sincegood,themoreCommunicated,moreabundantgrowes,TheAuthornotimpair’d,buthonourdmore?Here,happieCreature,fairAngelicEve,Partakethoualso;happiethoughthouart,Happierthoumaystbe,worthiercanstnotbe:Tastethis,andbehenceforthamongtheGodsThyselfaGoddess,nottoEarthconfind,ButsomtimesintheAir,aswee,somtimesAscendtoHeav’n,bymeritthine,andsee(80)WhatlifetheGodslivethere,andsuchlivethou.Sosaying,hedrewnigh,andtomeheld,EventomymouthofthatsamefruitheldpartWhichhehadpluckt;thepleasantsavouriesmellSoquick’ndappetite,thatI,methought,Couldnotbuttaste.ForthwithuptotheCloudsWithhimIflew,andunderneathbeheldTheEarthoutstretchtimmense,aprospectwideAndvarious:wondringatmyflightandchange

Tothishighexaltation;suddenly(90)MyGuidewasgon,andI,methought,sunkdown,Andfellasleep;butOhowgladIwak’dTofindthisbutadream!ThusEveherNightRelated,andthusAdamanswerdsad.BestImageofmyselfanddearerhalf,ThetroubleofthythoughtsthisnightinsleepAffectsmeequally;norcanIlikeThisuncouthdream,ofevilsprungIfear;Yetevilwhence?intheecanharbournone,Createdpure.ButknowthatintheSoule(100)AremanylesserFacultiesthatserveReasonaschief;amongtheseFansienextHerofficeholds;ofallexternalthings,WhichthefivewatchfulSensesrepresent,SheformsImaginations,Aerieshapes,WhichReasonjoyningordisjoyning,framesAllwhatweaffirmorwhatdeny,andcallOurknowledgeoropinion;thenretiresIntoherprivateCellwhenNaturerests.OftinherabsencemimicFansiewakes(110)Toimitateher;butmisjoyningshapes,Wildeworkproducesoft,andmostindreams,Illmatchingwordsanddeedslongpastorlate.SomsuchresemblancesmethinksIfindOfourlastEevningstalk,inthisthydream,Butwithadditionstrange;yetbenotsad.EvilintothemindofGodorMan

Maycomeandgo,sounapprov’d,andleaveNospotorblamebehind:WhichgivesmehopeThatwhatinsleepthoudidstabhorrtodream,(120)Wakingthouneverwiltconsenttodo.Benotdisheart’ndthen,norcloudthoselooksThatwonttobemorechearfulandsereneThenwhenfairMorningfirstsmilesontheWorld,AndletustoourfreshimploymentsriseAmongtheGroves,theFountains,andtheFloursThatopennowthirchoicestbosom’dsmellsReservdfromnight,andkeptfortheeinstore.SocheardhehisfairSpouse,andshewascheard,Butsilentlyagentletearletfall(130)Fromeithereye,andwip’dthemwithherhaire;Twootherpreciousdropsthatreadystood,EachinthirChrystalsluce,heeeretheyfellKiss’dasthegracioussignsofsweetremorseAndpiousawe,thatfeardtohaveoffended.Soallwascleard,andtotheFieldtheyhaste.Butfirstfromundershadiearborousroof,SoonastheyforthwerecometoopensightOfday-spring,andtheSun,whoscarceuprisenWithwheelsyethov’ringo’retheOceanbrim,(140)Shotparaleltotheearthhisdewieray,DiscoveringinwideLantskipalltheEastOfParadiseandEdenshappiePlains,Lowlytheybow’dadoring,andbeganThirOrisons,eachMorningdulypaid

Invariousstyle,forneithervariousstyleNorholyrapturewantedtheytopraiseThirMaker,infitstrainspronounc’torsungUnmeditated,suchprompteloquenceFlowdfromthirlips,inProseornumerousVerse,(150)MoretuneablethenneededLuteorHarpToaddmoresweetness,andtheythusbegan.Thesearethygloriousworks,Parentofgood,Almightie,thinethisuniversalFrame,Thuswondrousfair;thyselfhowwondrousthen!Unspeakable,whositstabovetheseHeavensTousinvisibleordimlyseenInthesethylowestworks,yetthesedeclareThygoodnessbeyondthought,andPowerDivine:Speakyeewhobestcantell,yeSonsofLight,(160)Angels,foryeebeholdhim,andwithsongsAndchoralsymphonies,DaywithoutNight,CirclehisThronerejoycing,yeeinHeav’n,OnEarthjoynallyeCreaturestoextollHimfirst,himlast,himmidst,andwithoutend.FairestofStarrs,lastinthetrainofNight,Ifbetterthoubelongnottothedawn,Surepledgeofday,thatcrownstthesmilingMornWiththybrightCirclet,praisehiminthySpheareWhiledayarises,thatsweethourofPrime.(170)ThouSun,ofthisgreatWorldbothEyeandSoule,AcknowledgehimthyGreater,soundhispraise

Inthyeternalcourse,bothwhenthouclimb’st,AndwhenhighNoonhastgaind,andwhenthoufallst.Moon,thatnowmeetsttheorientSun,nowfli’stWiththefixtStarrs,fixtinthirOrbthatflies,AndyeefiveotherwandringFiresthatmoveInmysticDancenotwithoutSong,resoundHispraise,whooutofDarknesscall’dupLight.Aire,andyeElementstheeldestbirth(180)OfNaturesWomb,thatinquaternionrunPerpetualCircle,multiform;andmixAndnourishallthings,letyourceaslesschangeVarietoourgreatMakerstillnewpraise.YeMistsandExhalationsthatnowriseFromHillorsteamingLake,duskieorgrey,TilltheSunpaintyourfleecieskirtswithGold,InhonourtotheWorldsgreatAuthorrise,WhethertodeckwithCloudstheuncolourdskie,OrwetthethirstieEarthwithfallingshowers,(190)Risingorfallingstilladvancehispraise.HispraiseyeWinds,thatfromfourQuartersblow,Breathesoftorloud;andwaveyourtops,yePines,WitheveryPlant,insignofWorshipwave.Fountainsandyee,thatwarble,asyeflow,Melodiousmurmurs,warblingtunehispraise.JoynvoicesallyelivingSouls;yeBirds,ThatsinginguptoHeavenGateascend,Bearonyourwingsandinyournoteshispraise;YeethatinWatersglide,andyeethatwalk(200)

TheEarth,andstatelytread,orlowlycreep;WitnessifIbesilent,MornorEeven,ToHill,orValley,Fountain,orfreshshadeMadevocalbymySong,andtaughthispraise.HailuniversalLord,bebounteousstillTogiveusonelygood;andifthenightHavegatheredaughtofevilorconceald,Disperseit,asnowlightdispelsthedark.Sopray’dtheyinnocent,andtothirthoughtsFirmpeacerecoverdsoonandwontedcalm.(210)OntothirmorningsruralworktheyhasteAmongsweetdewesandflours;whereanyrowOfFruit-treesoverwoodiereachdtoofarrThirpamperdboughes,andneededhandstocheckFruitlessimbraces:ortheyledtheVineTowedherElm;shespous’dabouthimtwinesHermarriageablearms,andwithherbringsHerdowrth’adoptedClusters,toadornHisbarrenleaves.ThemthusimploidbeheldWithpittieHeav’nshighKing,andtohimcall’d(220)Raphael,thesociableSpirit,thatdeign’dTotravelwithTobias,andsecur’dHismarriagewiththeseaventimes-weddedMaid.Raphael,saidhee,thouhear’stwhatstironEarthSatanfromHellscap’tthroughthedarksomGulfHathraisdinParadise,andhowdisturbdThisnightthehumanpair,howhedesignesInthematoncetoruinallmankind.

Gotherefore,halfthisdayasfriendwithfriendConversewithAdam,inwhatBowreorshade(230)Thoufind’sthimfromtheheatofNoonretir’d,Torespithisday-labourwithrepast,Orwithrepose;andsuchdiscoursebringon,Asmayadvisehimofhishappiestate,Happinessinhispowerleftfreetowill,LefttohisownfreeWill,hisWillthoughfree,Yetmutable;whencewarnehimtobewareHeswervenottoosecure:tellhimwithallHisdanger,andfromwhom,whatenemieLatefallnhimselffromHeav’n,isplottingnow(240)Thefallofothersfromlikestateofbliss;Byviolence,no,forthatshallbewithstood,Butbydeceitandlies;thislethimknow,LestwilfullytransgressinghepretendSurprisal,unadmonisht,unforewarnd.Sospaketh’EternalFather,andfulfilldAllJustice:nordelaidthewingedSaintAfterhischargereceivd;butfromamongThousandCelestialArdors,wherehestoodVaildwithhisgorgeouswings,upspringinglight(250)FlewthroughthemidstofHeav’n;th’angelicQuiresOneachhandparting,tohisspeedgavewayThroughallth’Empyrealroad;tillattheGateOfHeav’narriv’d,thegateself-opendwideOngoldenHingesturning,asbywork

Divinethesov’ranArchitecthadfram’d.Fromhence,nocloud,or,toobstructhissight,Starrinterpos’d,howeversmallhesees,NotunconformtoothershiningGlobes,EarthandtheGard’nofGod,withCedarscrownd(260)AboveallHills.AswhenbynighttheGlassOfGalileo,lessassur’d,observesImagindLandsandRegionsintheMoon:OrPilotfromamidsttheCycladesDelosorSamosfirstappeeringkennsAcloudyspot.DownthitherproneinflightHespeeds,andthroughthevastEtherealSkieSailesbetweenworldsandworlds,withsteddiewingNowonthepolarwindes,thenwithquickFannWinnowsthebuxomAir;tillwithinsoare(270)OfTowringEagles,toalltheFowlesheseemsAPhœnix,gaz’dbyall,asthatsoleBirdWhentoenshrinehisreliquesintheSun’sBrightTemple,toÆgyptianTheb’sheflies.Atonceonth’EasterncliffofParadiseHelights,andtohispropershapereturnsASeraphwingd;sixwingshewore,toshadeHislineamentsDivine;thepairthatcladEachshoulderbroad,camemantlingo’rehisbrestWithregalOrnament;themiddlepair(280)GirtlikeaStarrieZonehiswaste,androundSkirtedhisloinesandthigheswithdownieGoldAndcoloursdiptinHeav’n;thethirdhisfeet

ShaddowdfromeitherheelewithfeatherdmaileSkie-tinctur’dgrain.LikeMaia’ssonhestood,AndshookhisPlumes,thatHeav’nlyfragrancefill’dThecircuitwide.StraitknewhimalltheBandsOfAngelsunderwatch;andtohisstate,Andtohismessagehighinhonourrise;Foronsommessagehightheyguessdhimbound.(290)ThirglitteringTentshepassd,andnowiscomeIntotheblissfulfield,throughGrovesofMyrrhe,AndflouringOdours,Cassia,Nard,andBalme;AWildernessofsweets;forNaturehereWantondasinherprime,andplaidatwillHerVirginFancies,pouringforthmoresweet,WildeaboveRuleorArt;enormousbliss.HimthroughthespicieForrestonwardcomAdamdiscernd,asinthedorehesatOfhiscooleBowre,whilenowthemountedSun(300)ShotdowndirecthisfervidRaies,towarmeEarthsinmostwomb,morewarmththenAdamneed;AndEvewithin,dueatherhourprepar’dFordinnersavouriefruits,oftastetopleaseTrueappetite,andnotdisrelishthirstOfnectarousdraughtsbetween,frommilkiestream,BerrieorGrape:towhomthusAdamcall’d.HastehitherEve,andworththysightbeholdEastwardamongthoseTrees,whatgloriousshapeComesthiswaymoving;seemsanotherMorn(310)Ris’nonmid-noon;somgreatbehestfromHeav’n

Tousperhapshebrings,andwillvoutsafeThisdaytobeourGuest.Butgoewithspeed,Andwhatthystorescontain,bringforthandpoureAbundance,fittohonourandreceiveOurHeav’nlystranger;wellwemayaffordOurgiversthirowngifts,andlargebestowFromlargebestowd,whereNaturemultipliesHerfertilgrowth,andbydisburd’ninggrowsMorefruitful,whichinstructsusnottospare.(320)TowhomthusEve.Adam,earthshallowdmould,OfGodinspir’d,smallstorewillserve,wherestore,Allseasons,ripeforusehangsonthestalk;SavewhatbyfrugalstoringfirmnessgainsTonourish,andsuperfluousmoistconsumes:ButIwillhasteandfromeachboughandbreak,EachPlantandjuiciestGourdwillplucksuchchoiceToentertainourAngelguest,asheeBeholdingshallconfessthathereonEarthGodhathdispensthisbountiesasinHeav’n.(330)Sosaying,withdispatchfullooksinhasteSheturns,onhospitablethoughtsintentWhatchoicetochusefordelicaciebest,Whatorder,socontriv’dasnottomixTastes,notwelljoynd,inelegant,butbringTasteaftertasteupheldwithkindliestchange,Bestirsherthen,andfromeachtenderstalkWhateverEarthall-bearingMotheryields

InIndiaEastorWest,ormiddleshoareInPontusorthePunicCoast,orwhere(340)Alcinousreign’d,fruitofallkindes,incoate,Rough,orsmoothrin’d,orbeardedhusk,orshellShegathers,Tributelarge,andontheboardHeapswithunsparinghand;fordrinktheGrapeShecrushes,inoffensivemoust,andmeathesFrommanyaberrie,andfromsweetkernelsprestShetempersdulcetcreams,northesetoholdWantsherfitvesselspure,thenstrewsthegroundWithRoseandOdoursfromtheshrubunfum’d.MeanwhileourPrimitivegreatSire,tomeet(350)Hisgod-likeGuest,walksforth,withoutmoretrainAccompani’dthenwithhisowncompleatPerfections;inhimselfwasallhisstate,MoresolemnthenthetediouspompthatwaitsOnPrinces,whenthirrichRetinuelongOfHorsesled,andGroomsbesmeardwithGoldDazlesthecroud,andsetsthemallagape.NeererhispresenceAdamthoughnotawd,Yetwithsubmissapproachandreverencemeek,AstoasuperiorNature,bowinglow,(360)Thussaid.NativeofHeav’n,forotherplaceNonecanthenHeav’nsuchgloriousshapecontain;SincebydescendingfromtheThronesabove,ThosehappieplacesthouhastdeigndawhileTowant,andhonourthese,voutsafewithusTwoonely,whoyetbysov’rangiftpossess

Thisspaciousground,inyondershadieBowreTorest,andwhattheGardenchoicestbearsTositandtaste,tillthismeridianheatBeover,andtheSunmorecooledecline.(370)WhomthustheAngelicVertueanswerdmilde.Adam,Ithereforecame,norartthousuchCreated,orsuchplacehastheretodwell,Asmaynotoftinvite,thoughSpiritsofHeav’nTovisitthee;leadonthenwherethyBowreOreshades;forthesemid-hours,tillEevningriseIhaveatwill.SototheSilvanLodgeTheycame,thatlikePomona’sArboursmil’dWithflouretsdeck’tandfragrantsmells;butEveUndeckt,savewithherselfmorelovelyfair(380)ThenWood-Nymph,orthefairestGoddessfeign’dOfthreethatinMountIdanakedstrove,StoodtoentertainherguestfromHeav’n;novaileSheeneeded,Vertue-proof,nothoughtinfirmeAlterdhercheek.OnwhomtheAngelHaileBestowd,theholysalutationus’dLongaftertoblestMarie,secondEve.HaileMotherofMankind,whosefruitfulWombShallfilltheWorldmorenumerouswiththySonsThenwiththesevariousfruitstheTreesofGod(390)Haveheap’dthisTable.Rais’dofgrassieterfThirTablewas,andmossieseatshadround,AndonherampleSquarefromsidetosideAllAutumnpil’d,thoughSpringandAutumnhere

Danc’dhandinhand.Awhilediscoursetheyhold;NofearlestDinnercoole;whenthusbeganOurAuthour.Heav’nlystranger,pleasetotasteThesebountieswhichourNourisher,fromwhomAllperfetgoodunmeasur’dout,descends,Tousforfoodandfordelighthathcaus’d(400)TheEarthtoyeild;unsavouriefoodperhapsTospiritualNatures;onlythisIknow,ThatoneCelestialFathergivestoall.TowhomtheAngel.Thereforewhathegives(Whosepraisebeeversung)tomaninpartSpiritual,mayofpurestSpiritsbefoundNoingratefulfood:andfoodalikethosepureIntelligentialsubstancesrequireAsdothyourRational;andbothcontainWithinthemeverylowerfacultie(410)Ofsense,wherebytheyhear,see,smell,touch,taste,Tastingconcoct,digest,assimilate,Andcorporealtoincorporealturn.Forknow,whateverwascreated,needsTobesustaindandfed;ofElementsThegrosserfeedsthepurer,earththesea,EarthandtheSeafeedAir,theAirthoseFiresEthereal,andaslowestfirsttheMoon;Whenceinhervisageroundthosespots,unpurg’dVapoursnotyetintohersubstanceturnd.(420)NordoththeMoonnonourishmentexhale

FromhermoistContinenttohigherOrbes.TheSunthatlightimpartstoall,receivesFromallhisalimentalrecompenceInhumidexhalations,andatEvenSupswiththeOcean:thoughinHeav’ntheTreesOflifeambrosialfrutagebear,andvinesYieldNectar,thoughfromofftheboughseachMornWebrushmellifluousDewes,andfindthegroundCover’dwithpearlygrain:yetGodhathhere(430)Variedhisbountysowithnewdelights,AsmaycomparewithHeaven;andtotasteThinknotIshallbenice.Sodowntheysat,Andtothirviandsfell,norseeminglyTheAngel,norinmist,thecommonglossOfTheologians,butwithkeendispatchOfrealhunger,andconcoctiveheateTotransubstantiate;whatredounds,transpiresThroughSpiritswithease;norwonder;ifbyfireOfsootycoaltheEmpiricAlchimist(440)Canturn,orholdsitpossibletoturnMetalsofdrossiestOretoperfetGoldAsfromtheMine.MeanwhileatTableEveMinisterdnaked,andthirflowingcupsWithpleasantliquorscrown’d:OinnocenceDeservingParadise!ifever,then,ThenhadtheSonsofGodexcusetohavebinEnamour’datthatsight;butinthoseheartsLoveunlibidinousreign’d,norjealousie

Wasunderstood,theinjur’dLoversHell.(450)Thuswhenwithmeatsanddrinkstheyhadsuffic’dNotburd’ndNature,suddenmindaroseInAdam,nottoletth’occasionpassGivenhimbythisgreatConferencetoknowOfthingsabovehisWorld,andofthirbeingWhodwellinHeav’n,whoseexcellencehesawTranscendhisownsofarr,whoseradiantformsDivineeffulgence,whosehighPowersofarExceededhuman,andhiswaryspeechThustoth’EmpyrealMinisterhefram’d.(460)InhabitantwithGod,nowknowIwellThyfavour,inthishonourdonetoman,Underwhoselowlyroofthouhastvoutsaf’tToenter,andtheseearthlyfruitstotaste,FoodnotofAngels,yetacceptedso,AsthatmorewillinglythoucouldstnotseemAtHeav’n’shighfeaststohavefed:yetwhatcompare?TowhomthewingedHierarchrepli’d.OAdam,oneAlmightieis,fromwhomAllthingsproceed,anduptohimreturn,(470)Ifnotdeprav’dfromgood,createdallSuchtoperfection,onefirstmatterall,Indu’dwithvariousforms,variousdegreesOfsubstance,andinthingsthatlive,oflife;Butmorerefin’d,morespiritous,andpure,Asneerertohimplac’torneerertendingEachinthirseveralactiveSphearsassignd,

Tillbodyuptospiritwork,inboundsProportiondtoeachkind.SofromtherootSpringslighterthegreenstalk,fromthencetheleaves(480)Moreaerie,lastthebrightconsummatefloureSpiritsodorousbreathes:floursandthirfruitMansnourishment,bygradualscalesublim’dTovitalSpiritsaspire,toanimal,Tointellectual,givebothlifeandsense,Fansieandunderstanding,whencethesouleReasonreceives,andreasonisherbeing,Discursive,orIntuitive;discourseIsoftestyours,thelattermostisours,Differingbutindegree,ofkindthesame.(490)Wondernotthen,whatGodforyousawgoodIfIrefusenot,butconvert,asyou,Topropersubstance;timemaycomewhenmenWithAngelsmayparticipate,andfindNoinconvenientDiet,nortoolightFare:AndfromthesecorporalnutrimentsperhapsYourbodiesmayatlastturnalltoSpirit,Improv’dbytractoftime,andwingdascendEthereal,aswee,ormayatchoiceHereorinHeav’nlyParadisesdwell;(500)Ifyebefoundobedient,andretainUnalterablyfirmhisloveentireWhoseprogenieyouare.MeanwhileenjoyYourfillwhathappinessthishappiestate

Cancomprehend,incapableofmore.TowhomthePatriarchofmankindrepli’d.Ofavourablespirit,propitiousguest,WellhastthoutaughtthewaythatmightdirectOurknowledge,andthescaleofNaturesetFromcentertocircumference,whereon(510)IncontemplationofcreatedthingsBystepswemayascendtoGod.Butsay,Whatmeantthatcautionjoind,ifyebefoundObedient?canweewantobediencethenTohim,orpossiblyhislovedesertWhoformdusfromthedust,andplac’dushereFulltotheutmostmeasureofwhatblissHumandesirescanseekorapprehend?TowhomtheAngel.SonofHeav’nandEarth,Attend:Thatthouarthappie,owetoGod;(520)Thatthoucontinu’stsuch,owetothyself,Thatis,tothyobedience;thereinstand.Thiswasthatcautiongiv’nthee;beadvis’d.Godmadetheeperfet,notimmutable;Andgoodhemadethee,buttopersevereHeleftitinthypower,ordaindthywillBynaturefree,notover-rul’dbyFateInextricable,orstrictnecessity;Ourvoluntarieserviceherequires,Notournecessitated,suchwithhim(530)Findesnoacceptance,norcanfind,forhowCanhearts,notfree,betri’dwhethertheyserve

Willingorno,whowillbutwhattheymustByDestinie,andcannootherchoose?Myselfandallth’AngelicHostthatstandInsightofGodenthron’d,ourhappiestateHold,asyouyours,whileourobedienceholds;Onothersuretynone;freelyweserve.Becausewefreelylove,asinourwillToloveornot;inthiswestandorfall:(540)Andsomarefall’n,todisobediencefall’n,AndsofromHeav’ntodeepestHell;OfallFromwhathighstateofblissintowhatwoe!TowhomourgreatProgenitor.ThywordsAttentive,andwithmoredelightedeareDivineinstructer,Ihaveheard,thenwhenCherubicSongsbynightfromneighbouringHillsAerealMusicsend:norknewInotTobebothwillanddeedcreatedfree;Yetthatwenevershallforgettolove(550)Ourmaker,andobeyhimwhosecommandSingle,isyetsojust,myconstantthoughtsAssur’dmeandstillassure:thoughwhatthoutellstHathpastinHeav’n,somdoubtwithinmemove,Butmoredesiretohear,ifthouconsent,Thefullrelation,whichmustneedsbestrange,WorthyofSacredsilencetobeheard;Andwehaveyetlargeday,forscarcetheSunHathfinishthalfhisjourney,andscarcebeginsHisotherhalfinthegreatZoneofHeav’n.(560)

ThusAdammaderequest,andRaphaelAftershortpauseassenting,thusbegan.Highmatterthouinjoinstme,Oprimeofmen,Sadtaskandhard,forhowshallIrelateTohumansenseth’invisibleexploitsOfwarringSpirits;howwithoutremorseTheruinofsomanygloriousonceAndperfetwhiletheystood;howlastunfouldThesecretsofanotherworld,perhapsNotlawfultoreveal?yetforthygood(570)Thisisdispenc’t,andwhatsurmountsthereachOfhumansense,Ishalldelineateso,Bylik’ningspiritualtocorporalforms,Asmayexpressthembest,thoughwhatifEarthBebuttheshaddowofHeav’n,andthingsthereinEachtootherlike,morethenonearthisthought?AsyetthisWorldwasnot,andChaoswildeReigndwheretheseHeav’nsnowrowl,whereEarthnowrestsUponherCenterpois’d,whenonaday(ForTime,thoughinEternitie,appli’d(580)Tomotion,measuresallthingsdurableBypresent,past,andfuture)onsuchdayAsHeav’nsgreatYearbringsforth,th’EmpyrealHostOfAngelsbyImperialsummonscall’d,Innumerablebeforeth’AlmightiesThroneForthwithfromalltheendsofHeav’nappeerdUnderthirHierarchsinordersbright

TenthousandthousandEnsigneshighadvanc’d,StandardsandGonfalonstwixtVanandReareStreameintheAire,andfordistinctionserve(590)OfHierarchies,ofOrders,andDegrees;OrinthirglitteringTissuesbearimblaz’dHolyMemorials,actsofZealeandLoveRecordedeminent.ThuswheninOrbesOfcircuitinexpressibletheystood,OrbwithinOrb,theFatherinfinite,Bywhominblissimbosom’dsattheSon,AmidstasfromaflamingMount,whoseopBrightnesshadmadeinvisible,thusspake.HearallyeAngels,ProgenieofLight,(600)Thrones,Dominations,Princedoms,Vertues,Powers,HearmyDecree,whichunrevok’tshallstand.ThisdayIhavebegotwhomIdeclareMyonelySon,andonthisholyHillHimhaveanointed,whomyenowbeholdAtmyrighthand;yourHeadIhimappoint;AndbymySelfhavesworntohimshallbowAllkneesinHeav’n,andshallconfesshimLord:UnderhisgreatVice-gerentReignabideUnitedasoneindividualSoule(610)Foreverhappie:himwhodisobeyesMeedisobeyes,breaksunion,andthatdayCastoutfromGodandblessedvision,fallsIntoutterdarkness,deepingulft,hisplaceOrdaindwithoutredemption,withoutend.

Sospaketh’Omnipotent,andwithhiswordsAllseemdwellpleas’d,allseem’d,butwerenotall.Thatday,asothersolemdayes,theyspentInsonganddanceaboutthesacredHill,Mysticaldance,whichyonderstarrieSpheare(620)OfPlanetsandoffixtinallherWheelesResemblesnearest,mazesintricate,Eccentric,intervolv’d,yetregularThenmost,whenmostirregulartheyseem,AndinthirmotionsharmonieDivineSosmoothshercharmingtones,thatGodsownearListensdelighted.Eevningnowapproachd(ForwehavealsoourEevningandourMorn,Weoursforchangedelectable,notneed)Forthwithfromdancetosweetrepasttheyturn(630)Desirous,allinCirclesastheystood,Tablesareset,andonasuddenpil’dWithAngelsFood,andrubiedNectarflows:InPearl,inDiamond,andmassieGold,FruitofdeliciousVines,thegrowthofHeav’n.Onfloursrepos’d,andwithfreshflouretscrownd,Theyeate,theydrink,andincommunionsweetQuaffimmortalitieandjoy,secureOfsurfetwherefullmeasureonelyboundsExcess,beforeth’allbounteousKing,whoshowrd(640)Withcopioushand,rejoycinginthirjoy.NowwhenambrosialNightwithCloudsexhal’dFromthathighmountofGod,whencelight&shade

Springboth,thefaceofbrightestHeav’nhadchangdTogratefulTwilight(forNightcomesnotthereIndarkerveile)androseatDewsdispos’dAllbuttheunsleepingeyesofGodtorest,WideoverallthePlain,andwiderfarrThenallthisglobousEarthinPlainoutspred,(SucharetheCourtsofGod)Th’Angelicthrong(650)DisperstinBandsandFilesthirCampextendBylivingStreamsamongtheTreesofLife,Pavilionsnumberless,andsuddenreard,CelestialTabernacles,wheretheysleptFanndwithcooleWinds,savethosewhointhircourseMelodiousHymnsaboutthesovranThroneAlternateallnightlong:butnotsowak’dSatan,socallhimnow,hisformernameIsheardnomoreinHeav’n;heofthefirst,IfnotthefirstArch-Angel,greatinPower,(660)Infavourandpræeminence,yetfraughtWithenvieagainsttheSonofGod,thatdayHonourdbyhisgreatFather,andproclaimdMessiahKinganointed,couldnotbeareThroughpridethatsight,andthoughthimselfimpaird.Deepmalicethenceconceivinganddisdain,SoonasmidnightbroughtontheduskiehoureFriendliesttosleepandsilence,heresolv’dWithallhisLegionstodislodge,andleaveUnworshipt,unobey’dtheThronesupream(670)

Contemptuous,andhisnextsubordinateAwak’ning,thustohiminsecretspake.Sleepstthou,Companiondear,whatsleepcancloseThyeye-lids?andremembrestwhatDecreeOfyesterday,solatehathpastthelipsOfHeav’nsAlmightie.ThoutomethythoughtsWastwont,Iminetotheewaswonttoimpart;Bothwakingwewereone;howthencannowThysleepdissent?newLawsthouseestimpos’d;NewLawsfromhimwhoreigns,newmindsmayraise(680)Inuswhoserve,newCounsels,todebateWhatdoubtfulmayensue;moreinthisplaceToutterisnotsafe.AssemblethouOfallthoseMyriadswhichweleadthechief;Tellthemthatbycommand,ereyetdimNightHershadowieCloudwithdraws,Iamtohaste,AndallwhoundermethirBannerswave,HomewardwithflyingmarchwherewepossessTheQuartersoftheNorth,theretoprepareFitentertainmenttoreceiveourKing(690)ThegreatMessiah,andhisnewcommands,WhospeedilythroughalltheHierarchiesIntendstopasstriumphant,andgiveLaws.SospakethefalseArch-Angel,andinfus’dBadinfluenceintoth’unwariebrestOfhisAssociate;heetogethercalls,Orseveralonebyone,theRegentPowers,UnderhimRegent,tells,ashewastaught,

ThatthemostHighcommanding,nowereNight,NoweredimNighthaddisincumberdHeav’n,(700)ThegreatHierarchalStandardwastomove;Tellsthesuggestedcause,andcastsbetweenAmbiguouswordsandjealousies,tosoundOrtaintintegritie;butallobey’dThewontedsignal,andsuperiorvoiceOfthirgreatPotentate;forgreatindeedHisname,andhighwashisdegreeinHeav’n;Hiscount’nance,astheMorningStarrthatguidesThestarrieflock,allur’dthem,andwithlyesDrewafterhimthethirdpartofHeav’nsHost:(710)Meanwhileth’Eternaleye,whosesightdiscernesAbstrusestthoughts,fromforthhisholyMountAndfromwithinthegoldenLampsthatburneNightlybeforehim,sawwithoutthirlightRebellionrising,sawinwhom,howspredAmongthesonsofMorn,whatmultitudesWerebandedtoopposehishighDecree;AndsmilingtohisonelySonthussaid.Son,thouinwhommygloryIbeholdInfullresplendence,Heirofallmymight,(720)NeerlyitnowconcernesustobesureOfourOmnipotence,andwithwhatArmsWemeantoholdwhatancientlyweclaimOfDeitieorEmpire,suchafoeIsrising,whointendstoerecthisThroneEqualtoours,throughoutthespaciousNorth;

Norsocontent,hathinhisthoughttotrieInbattel,whatourPoweris,orourright.Letusadvise,andtothishazarddrawWithspeedwhatforceisleft,andallimploy(730)Inourdefense,lestunawaresweloseThisourhighplace,ourSanctuarie,ourHill.TowhomtheSonwithcalmaspectandcleerLight’ningDivine,ineffable,serene,Madeanswer.MightieFather,thouthyfoesJustlyhastinderision,andsecureLaugh’statthirvaindesignesandtumultsvain,MattertomeeofGlory,whomthirhateIllustrates,whentheyseeallRegalPowerGiv’nmetoquellthirpride,andinevent(740)KnowwhetherIbedextroustosubdueThyRebels,orbefoundtheworstinHeav’n.SospaketheSon,butSatanwithhisPowersFarrwasadvanc’tonwingedspeed,anHostInnumerableastheStarrsofNight,OrStarrsofMorning,Dew-drops,whichtheSunImpearlsoneveryleafandeveryflouer.Regionstheypass’d,themightieRegenciesOfSeraphimandPotentatesandThronesInthirtripleDegrees,Regionstowhich(750)AllthyDominion,Adam,isnomoreThenwhatthisGardenistoalltheEarth,AndalltheSea,fromoneentireglobose

StretchtintoLongitude;whichhavingpass’dAtlengthintothelimitsoftheNorthTheycame,andSatantohisRoyalseatHighonaHill,farblazing,asaMountRais’donaMount,withPyramidsandTowrsFromDiamondQuarrieshew’n,andRocksofGold,ThePalaceofgreatLucifer,(socall(760)ThatStructureintheDialectofmenInterpreted)whichnotlongafter,heeAffectingallequalitywithGod,InimitationofthatMountwhereonMessiahwasdeclar’dinsightofHeav’n,TheMountainoftheCongregationcall’d;Forthitherheassembl’dallhisTrain,PretendingsocommandedtoconsultAboutthegreatreceptionofthirKing,Thithertocome,andwithcalumniousArt(770)Ofcounterfetedtruththusheldthirears.Thrones,Dominations,Princedoms,Vertues,Powers,IfthesemagnificTitlesyetremainNotmeerlytitular,sincebyDecreeAnothernowhathtohimselfingross’tAllPower,anduseclipstunderthenameOfKinganointed,forwhomallthishasteOfmidnightmarch,andhurriedmeetinghere,ThisonelytoconsulthowwemaybestWithwhatmaybedevis’dofhonoursnew(780)Receivehimcomingtoreceivefromus

Knee-tributeyetunpaid,prostrationvile,Toomuchtoone,butdoublehowendur’d,Tooneandtohisimagenowproclaim’d?ButwhatifbettercounselsmighterectOurmindsandteachustocastoffthisYoke?Willyesubmityournecks,andchusetobendThesuppleknee?yewillnot,ifItrustToknowyeright,orifyeknowyourselvesNativesandSonsofHeav’npossestbefore(790)Bynone,andifnotequalall,yetfree,Equallyfree;forOrdersandDegreesJarrnotwithliberty,butwellconsist.WhocaninreasonthenorrightassumeMonarchieoversuchaslivebyrightHisequals,ifinpowerandsplendorless,Infreedomeequal?orcanintroduceLawandEdictonus,whowithoutlawErrenot,muchlessforthistobeourLord,Andlookforadorationtoth’abuse(800)OfthoseImperialTitleswhichassertOurbeingordain’dtogovern,nottoserve?ThusfarrhisbolddiscoursewithoutcontrouleHadaudience,whenamongtheSeraphimAbdiel,thenwhomnonewithmorezealeador’dTheDeitie,anddivinecommandsobei’d,Stoodup,andinaflameofzealesevereThecurrentofhisfurythusoppos’d.Oargumentblasphemous,falseandproud!

WordswhichnoeareevertohearinHeav’n(810)Expected,leastofallfromthee,ingrateInplacethyselfsohighabovethyPeeres.CanstthouwithimpiousobloquiecondemneThejustDecreeofGod,pronounc’tandsworn,ThattohisonlySonbyrightendu’dWithRegalScepter,everySouleinHeav’nShallbendtheknee,andinthathonourdueConfesshimrightfulKing?unjustthousaistFlatlyunjust,tobindewithLawsthefree,AndequaloverequalstoletReigne,(820)Oneoverallwithunsucceededpower.ShaltthougiveLawtoGod,shaltthoudisputeWithhimthepointsoflibertie,whomadeTheewhatthouart,andformdthePow’rsofHeav’nSuchashepleasd,andcircumscrib’dthirbeing?Yetbyexperiencetaughtweknowhowgood,Andofourgood,andofourdignitieHowprovidentheis,howfarrfromthoughtTomakeusless,bentrathertoexaltOurhappiestateunderoneHeadmoreneer(830)United.Buttograntittheeunjust,ThatequaloverequalsMonarchReigne:Thyselfthoughgreatandgloriousdostthoucount,OrallAngelicNaturejoindinone,EqualtohimbegottenSon,bywhomAsbyhisWordthemightyFathermade

Allthings,ev’nthee,andalltheSpiritsofHeav’nByhimcreatedinthirbrightdegrees,CrowndthemwithGlory,andtothirGlorynam’dThrones,Dominations,Princedoms,Vertues,Powers,(840)EssentialPowers,norbyhisReignobscur’d,Butmoreillustriousmade,sincehetheHeadOneofournumberthusreduc’tbecomes,HisLawsourLaws,allhonourtohimdoneReturnsourown.Ceasethenthisimpiousrage,Andtemptnotthese;buthast’ntoappeaseTh’incensedFather,andth’incensedSon,WhilePardonmaybefoundintimebesought.SospaketheferventAngel,buthiszealeNoneseconded,asoutofseasonjudg’d,(850)Orsingularandrash,whereatrejoic’dTh’Apostat,andmorehaughtythusrepli’d.Thatwewereformdthensaistthou?andtheworkOfsecondariehands,bytasktransferdFromFathertohisSon?strangepointandnew!Doctrinwhichwewouldknowwhencelearnt:whosawWhenthiscreationwas?rememberstthouThymaking,whiletheMakergavetheebeing?Weknownotimewhenwewerenotasnow;Knownonebeforeus,self-begot,self-rais’d(860)Byourownquick’ningpower,whenfatalcourseHadcircl’dhisfullOrbe,thebirthmatureOfthisournativeHeav’n,EtherealSons.Ourpuissanceisourown,ourownrighthand

Shallteachushighestdeeds,byprooftotryWhoisourequal:thenthoushaltbeholdWhetherbysupplicationweintendAddress,andtobegirtth’AlmightyThroneBeseechingorbesieging.Thisreport,Thesetidingscarrietoth’anointedKing;(870)Andfly,ereevilinterceptthyflight.Hesaid,andasthesoundofwatersdeepHoarcemurmurecho’dtohiswordsapplauseThroughtheinfiniteHost,norlessforthatTheflamingSeraphfearless,thoughaloneEncompass’droundwithfoes,thusanswerdbold.OalienatefromGod,Ospiritaccurst,Forsak’nofallgood;IseethyfallDetermind,andthyhaplesscrewinvolv’dInthisperfidiousfraud,contagionspred(880)Bothofthycrimeandpunishment:henceforthNomorebetroubl’dhowtoquittheyokeOfGodsMessiah;thoseindulgentLawsWillnotnowbevoutsaf’t,otherDecreesAgainsttheearegonforthwithoutrecall;ThatGoldenScepterwhichthoudidstrejectIsnowanIronRodtobruiseandbreakeThydisobedience.Wellthoudidstadvise,YetnotforthyadviseorthreatsIflyThesewickedTentsdevoted,leastthewrauth(890)Impendent,ragingintosuddenflameDistinguishnot:forsoonexpecttofeel

HisThunderonthyhead,devouringfire.Thenwhocreatedtheelamentinglearne,Whenwhocanuncreatetheethoushaltknow.SospaketheSeraphAbdielfaithfulfound,Amongthefaithless,faithfulonlyhee;Amonginnumerablefalse,unmov’d,Unshak’n,unseduc’d,unterrifi’dHisLoyaltiehekept,hisLove,hisZeale;(900)Nornumber,norexamplewithhimwroughtToswervefromtruth,orchangehisconstantmindThoughsingle.Fromamidstthemforthhepassd,Longwaythroughhostilescorn,whichhesusteindSuperior,norofviolencefear’daught;Andwithretortedscornhisbackheturn’dOnthoseproudTowrstoswiftdestructiondoom’d.

TheEndoftheFifthBook.

Book VI

TheArgument

Raphaelcontinues to relate howMichaelandGabrielwere sent forth to battelagainstSatanand hisAngels.The firstFight describ’d:SatanandhisPowers retireunder Night:He calls aCouncel, invents devilishEngines,which in the second dayes

Fight putMichaeland his Angels to some disorder; But, they at length pulling upMountains overwhelm’dboth the forceandMachins of Satan:Yet theTumultnot soending,GodonthethirddaysendsMessiahhisSon,forwhomhehadreserv’dthegloryof thatVictory:HeeinthePowerof hisFathercomingtotheplace,andcausingallhis

Legionstostandstilloneitherside,withhisChariotandThunderdrivingintothemidst

of his Enemies, pursues them unable to resist towards the wall of Heaven; which

opening,theyleapdownwithhorrourandconfusionintotheplaceofpunishmentprepar’d

forthemintheDeep:MessiahreturnswithtriumphtohisFather.

AllnightthedreadlessAngelunpursu’dThroughHeav’nswideChampainheldhisway,tillMorn,Wak’tbythecirclingHours,withrosiehandUnbarr’dthegatesofLight.ThereisaCaveWithintheMountofGod,fastbyhisThrone,WherelightanddarknessinperpetualroundLodgeanddislodgebyturns,whichmakesthroughHeav’nGratefulvicissitude,likeDayandNight;

Lightissuesforth,andattheotherdoreObsequiousdarknessenters,tillherhoure(10)ToveiletheHeav’n,thoughdarknesstheremightwellSeemtwilighthere;andnowwentforththeMornSuchasinhighestHeav’n,arraydinGoldEmpyreal,frombeforehervanishtNight,ShotthroughwithorientBeams:whenallthePlainCoverdwiththickembatteldSquadronsbright,ChariotsandflamingArmes,andfierieSteedsReflectingblazeonblaze,firstmethisview:Warrheperceav’d,warrinprocinct,andfoundAlreadyknownwhathefornewshadthought(20)Tohavereported:gladlythenhemixtAmongthosefriendlyPowerswhohimreceav’dWithjoyandacclamationsloud,thatoneThatofsomanyMyriadsfall’n,yetoneReturndnotlost:OntothesacredhillTheyledhimhighapplauded,andpresentBeforetheseatsupream;fromwhenceavoiceFrommidstaGoldenCloudthusmildewasheard.ServantofGod,welldone,wellhastthoufoughtThebetterfight,whosinglehastmaintaind(30)AgainstrevoltedmultitudestheCauseOfTruth,inwordmightierthentheyinArmes;AndforthetestimonieofTruthhastbornUniversalreproach,farworsetobeareThenviolence:forthiswasallthycareTostandapprov’dinsightofGod,thoughWorlds

Judg’dtheeperverse:theeasierconquestnowRemainsthee,aidedbythishostoffriends,BackonthyfoesmoreglorioustoreturnThenscorndthoudidstdepart,andtosubdue(40)Byforce,whoreasonforthirLawrefuse,RightreasonforthirLaw,andforthirKingMessiah,whobyrightofmeritReigns.GoeMichaelofCelestialArmiesPrince,AndthouinMilitaryprowessnextGabriel,leadforthtoBattelthesemySonsInvincible,leadforthmyarmedSaintsByThousandsandbyMillionsrang’dforfight;EqualinnumbertothatGodlesscrewRebellious,themwithFireandhostileArms(50)Fearlessassault,andtothebrowofHeav’nPursuingdrivethemoutfromGodandbliss,Intothirplaceofpunishment,theGulfOfTartarus,whichreadyopenswideHisfieryChaostoreceavethirfall.SospaketheSovranvoice,andCloudsbeganTodarkenalltheHill,andsmoaktorowlInduskiewreathes,reluctantflames,thesigneOfwrauthawak’t:norwithlessdreadtheloudEtherealTrumpetfromonhighganblow:(60)AtwhichcommandthePowersMilitant,ThatstoodforHeav’n,inmightyQuadratejoyn’dOfUnionirresistible,mov’donInsilencethirbrightLegions,tothesound

OfinstrumentalHarmoniethatbreath’dHeroicArdortoadvent’rousdeedsUnderthirGod-likeLeaders,intheCauseOfGodandhisMessiah.OntheymoveIndissolublyfirm;norobviousHillNorstreit’ningVale,norWood,norStreamdivides(70)Thirperfetranks;forhighabovethegroundThirmarchwas,andthepassiveAirupboreThirnimbletread,aswhenthetotalkindOfBirdsinorderlyarrayonwingCamesummondoverEdentoreceiveThirnamesofthee;soovermanyatractOfHeav’ntheymarch’d,andmanyaProvincewideTenfoldthelengthofthisterrene:atlastFarrinth’HorizontotheNorthappeer’dFromskirttoskirtafierieRegion,stretcht(80)Inbattailousaspect,andneererviewBristl’dwithuprightbeamsinnumerableOfrigidSpears,andHelmetsthrong’d,andShieldsVarious,withboastfulArgumentportraid,ThebandedPowersofSatanhastingonWithfuriousexpedition;fortheyweendThatselfsamedaybyfight,orbysurprizeTowintheMountofGod,andonhisThroneTosettheenvierofhisState,theproudAspirer,butthirthoughtsprov’dfondandvain(90)Inthemidway:thoughstrangetousitseemd

Atfirst,thatAngelshouldwithAngelwarr,Andinfiercehostingmeet,whowonttomeetSooftinFestivalsofjoyandloveUnanimous,assonsofonegreatSireHymningth’EternalFather:buttheshoutOfBattelnowbegan,andrushingsoundOfonsetendedsooneachmilderthought.HighinthemidstexaltedasaGodTh’ApostatinhisSun-brightChariotsate(100)IdolofMajestieDivine,enclos’dWithFlamingCherubim,andgoldenShields;ThenlightedfromhisgorgeousThrone,fornow‘TwixtHostandHostbutnarrowspacewasleft,Adreadfulinterval,andFronttoFrontPresentedstoodinterriblearrayOfhideouslength:beforethecloudieVan,Ontheroughedgeofbattelereitjoyn’d,Satanwithvastandhaughtiestridesadvanc’t,Cametowring,armdinAdamantandGold;(110)Abdielthatsightendur’dnot,wherehestoodAmongthemightiest,bentonhighestdeeds,Andthushisownundauntedheartexplores.OHeav’n!thatsuchresemblanceoftheHighestShouldyetremain,wherefaithandrealtieRemainnot;wherforeshouldnotstrengthandmightTherefailwhereVertuefails,orweakestproveWhereboldest;thoughtosightunconquerable?Hispuissance,trustinginth’Almightie’saide,

Imeantotry,whoseReasonIhavetri’d(120)Unsoundandfalse;norisitaughtbutjust,ThathewhoindebateofTruthhathwon,ShouldwininArms,inbothdisputesalikeVictor;thoughbrutishthatcontestandfoule,WhenReasonhathtodealwithforce,yetsoMostreasonisthatReasonovercome.Sopondering,andfromhisarmedPeersForthsteppingopposite,halfwayhemetHisdaringfoe,atthispreventionmoreIncens’t,andthussecurelyhimdefi’d.(130)Proud,artthoumet?thyhopewastohavereachtThehighthofthyaspiringunoppos’d,TheThroneofGodunguarded,andhissideAbandondattheterrorofthyPowerOrpotenttongue;fool,nottothinkhowvainAgainstth’OmnipotenttoriseinArms;WhooutofsmallestthingscouldwithoutendHaverais’dincessantArmiestodefeatThyfolly;orwithsolitariehandReachingbeyondalllimit,atoneblow(140)Unaidedcouldhavefinishtthee,andwhelmdThyLegionsunderdarkness;butthouseestAllarenotofthyTrain;therebewhoFaithPrefer,andPietietoGod,thoughthenTotheenotvisible,whenIaloneSeemdinthyWorlderroneoustodissentFromall:mySectthouseest,nowlearntoolate

Howfewsomtimesmayknow,whenthousandserr.WhomthegrandfoewithscornfuleyeaskanceThusanswerd.Illforthee,butinwishthoure(150)Ofmyrevenge,firstsoughtforthoureturnstFromflight,seditiousAngel,toreceaveThymeritedreward,thefirstassayOfthisrighthandprovok’t,sincefirstthattongueInspir’dwithcontradictiondurstopposeAthirdpartoftheGods,inSynodmetThirDeitiestoassert,whowhiletheyfeelVigourDivinewithinthem,canallowOmnipotencetonone.ButwellthoucomstBeforethyfellows,ambitioustowin(160)FrommesomPlume,thatthysuccessmayshowDestructiontotherest:thispausebetween(Unanswerdleastthouboast)tolettheeknow;AtfirstIthoughtthatLibertieandHeav’nToheav’nlySouleshadbinallone;butnowIseethatmostthroughslothhadratherserve,MinistringSpirits,traindupinFeastandSong;Suchhastthouarm’d,theMinstrelsieofHeav’n,Servilitiewithfreedomtocontend,Asboththirdeedscompar’dthisdayshallprove.(170)TowhominbriefthusAbdielsternrepli’d.Apostat,stillthouerrst,norendwiltfindOferring,fromthepathoftruthremote:Unjustlythoudeprav’stitwiththename

OfServitudetoservewhomGodordains,OrNature;GodandNaturebidthesame,Whenhewhorulesisworthiest,andexcellsThemwhomhegoverns.Thisisservitude,Toserveth’unwise,orhimwhohathrebelldAgainsthisworthier,asthinenowservethee,(180)Thyselfnotfree,buttothyselfenthrall’d;Yetleudlydar’stourministringupbraid.ReignthouinHellthyKingdom,letmeeserveInHeav’nGodeverblessed,andhisDivineBehestsobey,worthiesttobeobey’d,YetChainsinHell,notRealmsexpect:meanwhileFrommeereturnd,aserstthousaidst,fromflight,ThisgreetingonthyimpiousCrestreceive.Sosaying,anoblestrokeheliftedhigh,Whichhungnot,butsoswiftwithtempestfell(190)OntheproudCrestofSatan,thatnosight,Normotionofswiftthought,lesscouldhisShieldSuchruinintercept:tenpaceshugeHebackrecoild;thetenthonbendedkneeHismassieSpearupstaid;asifonEarthWindsundergroundorwatersforcingwaySidelong,hadpush’taMountainfromhisseatHalfsunkwithallhisPines.Amazementseis’dTheRebelThrones,butgreaterragetoseeThusfoil’dthirmightiest,oursjoyfilld,andshout,(200)PresageofVictorieandfiercedesireOfBattel:whereatMichaelbidsound

Th’Arch-angeltrumpet;throughthevastofHeavenItsounded,andthefaithfulArmiesrungHosannatotheHighest:norstoodatgazeTheadverseLegions,norlesshideousjoyn’dThehorridshock:nowstormingfurierose,AndclamoursuchasheardinHeav’ntillnowWasnever,ArmsonArmourclashingbray’dHorriblediscord,andthemaddingWheeles(210)OfbrazenChariotsrag’d;direwasthenoiseOfconflict;overheadthedismalhissOffieryDartsinflamingvoliesflew,AndflyingvaultedeitherHostwithfire.SounderfierieCopetogetherrush’dBothBattelsmaine,withruinousassaultAndinextinguishablerage;allHeav’nResounded,andhadEarthbinthen,allEarthHadtoherCentershook.Whatwonder?whenMillionsoffierceencountringAngelsfought(220)Oneitherside,theleastofwhomcouldweildTheseElements,andarmhimwiththeforceOfallthirRegions:howmuchmoreofPowerArmieagainstArmienumberlesstoraiseDreadfulcombustionwarring,anddisturb,Thoughnotdestroy,thirhappieNativeseat;Hadnotth’EternalKingOmnipotentFromhisstrongholdofHeav’nhighover-rul’dAndlimitedthirmight;thoughnumberdsuchAseachdividedLegionmighthaveseemd(230)

AnumerousHost,instrengtheacharmedhandALegion;ledinfight,yetLeaderseemdEachWarrioursingleasinChief,expertWhentoadvance,orstand,orturntheswayOfBattel,openwhen,andwhentocloseTheridgesofgrimWarr;nothoughtofflight,Noneofretreat,nounbecomingdeedThatargu’dfear;eachonhimselfreli’d,AsonelyinhisarmthemomentlayOfvictorie;deedsofeternalfame(240)Weredon,butinfinite:forwidewasspredThatWarrandvarious;somtimesonfirmgroundAstandingfight,thensoaringonmainwingTormentedalltheAir;allAirseemdthenConflictingFire:longtimeineevenscaleTheBattelhung;tillSatan,whothatdayProdigiouspowerhadshewn,andmetinArmesNoequal,raungingthroughthedireattackOffightingSeraphimconfus’d,atlengthSawwheretheSwordofMichaelsmote,andfell’d(250)Squadronsatonce,withhugetwo-handedswayBrandishtaloftthehorridedgecamedownWidewasting;suchdestructiontowithstandHehasted,andoppos’dtherockieOrbOftenfoldAdamant,hisampleShieldAvastcircumference:AthisapproachThegreatArch-Angelfromhiswarliketoile

Surceas’d,andgladashopingheretoendIntestineWarinHeav’n,thearchfoesubdu’dOrCaptivedrag’dinChains,withhostilefrown(260)Andvisageallenflam’dfirstthusbegan.Authorofevil,unknowntillthyrevolt,Unnam’dinHeav’n,nowplenteous,asthouseestTheseActsofhatefulstrife,hatefultoall,ThoughheaviestbyjustmeasureonthyselfAndthyadherents:howhastthoudisturb’dHeav’nsblessedpeace,andintoNaturebroughtMiserie,uncreatedtillthecrimeOfthyRebellion?howhastthouinstill’dThymaliceintothousands,onceupright(270)Andfaithful,nowprov’dfalse.ButthinknothereTotroubleHolyRest;Heav’ncaststheeoutFromallherConfines.Heav’ntheseatofblissBrooksnottheworksofviolenceandWarr.Hencethen,andevilgowiththeealongThyofspring,totheplaceofevil,Hell,Thouandthywickedcrew;thereminglebroiles,ErethisavengingSwordbeginthydoome,Orsommoresuddenvengeancewing’dfromGodPrecipitatetheewithaugmentedpaine.(280)SospakethePrinceofAngels;towhomthusTheAdversarie.NorthinkthouwithwindOfairiethreatstoawwhomyetwithdeedsThoucanstnot.HastthouturndtheleastoftheseToflight,oriftofall,butthattheyrise

Unvanquisht,easiertotransactwithmeeThatthoushouldsthope,imperious,andwiththreatsTochasemehence?errenotthatsoshallendThestrifewhichthoucall’stevil,butweestyleThestrifeofGlorie:whichwemeantowin,(290)OrturnthisHeav’nitselfintotheHellThoufablest,herehowevertodwellfree,Ifnottoreign:meanwhilethyutmostforce,Andjoinhimnam’dAlmightietothyaid,Iflienot,buthavesoughttheefarrandnigh.Theyendedparle,andbothaddresstforfightUnspeakable;forwho,thoughwiththetongueOfAngels,canrelate,ortowhatthingsLikenonEarthconspicuous,thatmayliftHumanimaginationtosuchhighth(300)OfGodlikePower:forlikestGodstheyseemd,Stoodtheyormov’d,instature,motion,armsFittodecidetheEmpireofgreatHeav’n.Nowwav’dthirfierieSwords,andintheAireMadehorridCircles;twobroadSunsthirShieldsBlaz’dopposite,whileexpectationstoodInhorror;fromeachhandwithspeedretir’dWhereerstwasthickestfight,th’Angelicthrong,Andleftlargefield,unsafewithinthewindOfsuchcommotion,suchastosetforth(310)Greatthingsbysmall,IfNaturesconcordbroke,AmongtheConstellationswarrweresprung,TwoPlanetsrushingfromaspectmaligne

OffiercestoppositioninmidSkie,Shouldcombat,andthirjarringSphearsconfound.TogetherbothwithnexttoAlmightieArme,Upliftedimminentonestroketheyaim’dThatmightdetermine,andnotneedrepeate,Asnotofpower,atonce;noroddsappeerdInmightorswiftprevention;butthesword(320)OfMichaelfromtheArmorieofGodWasgiv’nhimtemperdso,thatneitherkeenNorsolidmightresistthatedge:itmetTheswordofSatanwithsteepforcetosmiteDescending,andinhalfcutsheere,norstaid,Butwithswiftwheelereverse,deepentringshar’dAllhisrightside;thenSatanfirstknewpain,Andwrith’dhimtoandfroconvolv’d;sosoreThegridingswordwithdiscontinuouswoundPass’dthroughhim,butth’Etherealsubstanceclos’d(330)Notlongdivisible,andfromthegashAstreamofNectaroushumorissuingflow’dSanguin,suchasCelestialSpiritsmaybleed,AndallhisArmourstainderewhilesobright.ForthwithonallsidestohisaidewasrunByAngelsmanyandstrong,whointerpos’dDefence,whileothersborehimonthirShieldsBacktohisChariot;whereitstoodretir’dFromoffthefilesofwarr;theretheyhimlaidGnashingforanguishanddespiteandshame(340)

Tofindhimselfnotmatchless,andhisprideHumbl’dbysuchrebuke,sofarrbeneathHisconfidencetoequalGodinpower.Yetsoonheheal’d;forSpiritsthatlivethroughoutVitalineverypart,notasfrailmanInEntrailes,HeartorHead,LiverorReines;Cannotbutbyannihilatingdie;NorinthirliquidtexturemortalwoundReceive,nomorethencanthefluidAire:AllHearttheylive,allHead,allEye,allEare,(350)AllIntellect,allSense,andastheyplease,TheyLimbthemselves,andcolour,shapeorsizeAssume,aslikesthembest,condenseorrare.MeanwhileinotherpartslikedeedsdeservdMemorial,wherethemightofGabrielfought,AndwithfierceEnsignespierc’dthedeeparrayOfMolocfuriousKing,whohimdefi’dAndathisChariotwheelestodraghimboundThreatn’d,norfromtheHolieOneofHeav’nRefrein’dhistongueblasphemous;butanon(360)Downclov’ntothewaste,withshatterdArmesAnduncouthpainefledbellowing.OneachwingUrielandRaphaelhisvauntingfoe,Thoughhuge,andinaRockofDiamondArmd,Vanquish’dAdramelec,andAsmadai,TwopotentThrones,thattobelessthenGodsDisdain’d,butmeanerthoughtslearndinthirflight,Mangl’dwithgastlywoundsthroughPlateandMaile.

NorstoodunmindfulAbdieltoannoyTheAtheistcrew,butwithredoubl’dblow(370)ArielandArioc,andtheviolenceOfRamielscorchtandblastedoverthrew.Imightrelateofthousands,andthirnamesEternizehereonEarth;butthoseelectAngelscontentedwiththirfameinHeav’nSeeknotthepraiseofmen:theothersortInmightthoughwondrousandinActsofWarr,NorofRenownlesseager,yetbydoomeCanceldfromHeav’nandsacredmemorie,Namelessindarkoblivionletthemdwell.(380)ForstrengthfromTruthdividedandfromJust,Illaudable,naughtmeritsbutdispraiseAndignominie,yettoglorieaspiresVainglorious,andthroughinfamieseeksfame:TherforeEternalsilencebethirdoome.Andnowthirmightiestquelld,thebattelswerv’d,Withmanyaninrodegor’d;deformedroutEnter’d,andfouldisorder;allthegroundWithshiverdarmourstrow’n,andonaheapChariotandCharioterlayoverturnd(390)AndfieriefoamingSteeds;whatstood,recoyldOrewearied,throughthefaintSatanicHostDefensivescarse,orwithpalefearsurpris’d,Thenfirstwithfearsurpris’dandsenseofpaineFledignominious,tosuchevilbroughtBysinneofdisobedience,tillthathour

Notliabletofearorflightorpaine.Farotherwiseth’inviolableSaintsInCubicPhalanxfirmadvanc’tentire,Invulnerable,impenitrablyarm’d:(400)SuchhighadvantagesthirinnocenceGavethemabovethirfoes,nottohavesinnd,Nottohavedisobei’d;infighttheystoodUnwearied,unobnoxioustobepain’dBywound,thoughfromthirplacebyviolencemov’d.NowNighthercoursebegan,andoverHeav’nInducingdarkness,gratefultruceimpos’d,AndsilenceontheodiousdinnofWarr:UnderherCloudiecovertbothretir’d,VictorandVanquisht:onthefoughtenfield(410)MichaelandhisAngelsprevalentEncamping,plac’dinGuardthirWatchesround,Cherubicwavingfires:onth’otherpartSatanwithhisrebelliousdisappeerd,Farinthedarkdislodg’d,andvoidofrest,HisPotentatestoCouncelcall’dbynight;Andinthemidstthusundismai’dbegan.Onowindangertri’d,nowknowninArmesNottobeoverpowerd,Companionsdeare,FoundworthynotofLibertiealone,(420)Toomeanpretense,butwhatwemoreaffect,Honour,Dominion,Glorie,andrenowne,Whohavesustaindonedayindoubtfulfight

(Andifoneday,whynotEternaldayes?)WhatHeavensLordhadpowerfullesttosendAgainstusfromabouthisThrone,andjudg’dSufficienttosubdueustohiswill,Butprovesnotso:thenfallible,itseems,Offuturewemaydeemhim,thoughtillnowOmniscientthought.Trueis,lessfirmlyarm’d,(430)Somedisadvantageweendur’dandpaine,Tillnownotknown,butknownassooncontemnd,SincenowwefindthisourEmpyrealformIncapableofmortalinjurieImperishable,andthoughpierc’dwithwound,Soonclosing,andbynativevigourheal’d.OfevilthensosmallaseasiethinkTheremedie;perhapsmorevalidArmes,Weaponsmoreviolent,whennextwemeet,Mayservetobetterus,andworseourfoes,(440)Orequalwhatbetweenusmadetheodds,InNaturenone:ifotherhiddencauseLeftthemSuperiour,whilewecanpreserveUnhurtourmindes,andunderstandingsound,Duesearchandconsultationwilldisclose.Hesat;andinth’assemblynextupstoodNisroc,ofPrincipalitiestheprime;Asonehestoodescap’tfromcruelfight,Soretoild,hisriv’nArmestohavochewn,Andcloudieinaspectthusansweringspake.(450)DelivererfromnewLords,leadertofree

EnjoymentofourrightasGods;yethardForGods,andtoounequalworkwefindAgainstunequalarmestofightinpaine,Againstunpaind,impassive;fromwhichevilRuinmustneedsensue;forwhatavailesValourorstrength,thoughmatchless,quelldwithpainWhichallsubdues,andmakesremissthehandsOfMightiest.SenseofpleasurewemaywellSpareoutoflifeperhaps,andnotrepine,(460)Butlivecontent,whichisthecalmestlife:Butpainisperfetmiserie,theworstOfevils,andexcessive,overturnesAllpatience.HewhothereforecaninventWithwhatmoreforciblewemayoffendOuryetunwoundedEnemies,orarmeOurselveswithlikedefence,tomeedeservesNolessthenfordeliverancewhatweowe.Wheretowithlookcompos’dSatanrepli’d.Notuninventedthat,whichthouaright(470)Believstsomaintooursuccess,Ibring;WhichofuswhobeholdsthebrightsurfaceOfthisEthereousmouldwhereonwestand,ThiscontinentofspaciousHeav’n,adorndWithPlant,Fruit,FlourAmbrosial,GemmsandGold,WhoseEyesosuperficiallysurveyesThesethings,asnottomindfromwhencetheygrowDeepunderground,materialsdarkandcrude,Ofspiritousandfieriespume,tilltoucht

WithHeav’nsray,andtemperdtheyshootforth(480)Sobeauteous,op’ningtotheambientlight.TheseinthirdarkNativitietheDeepShallyieldus,pregnantwithinfernalflame,WhichintohallowEnginslongandroundThick-rammd,atth’otherborewithtouchoffireDilatedandinfuriateshallsendforthFromfarwiththundringnoiseamongourfoesSuchimplementsofmischiefasshalldashTopieces,andorewhelmwhateverstandsAdverse,thattheyshallfearwehavedisarmd(490)TheThundererofhisonlydreadedbolt.Norlongshallbeourlabour,yeteredawne,Effectshallendourwish.Meanwhilerevive;Abandonfear;tostrengthandcounseljoindThinknothinghard,muchlesstobedespaird.Heended,andhiswordsthirdroopingchereEnlightn’d,andthirlanguishthopereviv’d.Th’inventionalladmir’d,andeach,howheeTobeth’inventormiss’d,soeasieitseemdOncefound,whichyetunfoundmostwouldhavethought(500)Impossible:yethaplyofthyRaceInfuturedayes,ifMaliceshouldabound,Someoneintentonmischief,orinspir’dWithdev’lishmachinationmightdeviseLikeinstrumenttoplaguetheSonsofmenForsin,onwarrandmutualslaughterbent.

ForthwithfromCounceltotheworktheyflew,Nonearguingstood,innumerablehandsWereready,inamomentuptheyturndWidetheCelestialsoile,andsawbeneath(510)Th’originalsofNatureinthircrudeConception;SulphurousandNitrousFoameTheyfound,theymingl’d,andwithsuttleArt,Concoctedandadustedtheyreduc’dToblackestgrain,andintostoreconveydParthidd’nveinsdiggdup(norhaththisEarthEntrailsunlike)ofMineralandStone,WhereoftofoundthirEnginsandthirBallsOfmissiveruin;partincentivereedProvide,perniciouswithonetouchtofire.(520)Soallereday-spring,underconsciousNightSecrettheyfinish’d,andinorderset,Withsilentcircumspectionunespi’d.NowwhenfairMornOrientinHeav’nappeerdUprosetheVictorAngels,andtoArmsThematinTrumpetSung:inArmstheystoodOfGoldenPanoplie,refulgentHost,Soonbanded;othersfromthedawningHillsLookdround,andScoutseachCoastlight-armedscoure,Eachquarter,todescriethedistantfoe,(530)Wherelodg’d,orwhitherfled,orifforfight,Inmotionorinalt:himsoontheymetUnderspredEnsignesmovingnigh,inslowButfirmBattalion;backwithspeediestSail

Zophiel,ofCherubimtheswiftestwing,Cameflying,andinmidAirealoudthuscri’d.Arme,Warriours,Armeforfight,thefoeathand,Whomfledwethought,willsaveuslongpursuitThisday,fearnothisflight;sothickaCloudHecomes,andsettl’dinhisfaceIsee(540)Sadresolutionandsecure:leteachHisAdamantinecoatgirdwell,andeachFitwellhisHelme,gripefasthisorbedShield,Borneevnorhigh,forthisdaywillpourdown,IfIconjectureaught,nodrizlingshowr,ButratlingstormofArrowsbarbdwithfire.Sowarndhethemawarethemselves,andsoonInorder,quitofallimpediment;InstantwithoutdisturbtheytookAllarm,AndonwardmoveEmbattelld;whenbehold(550)NotdistantfarwithheaviepacetheFoeApproachinggrossandhuge;inhollowCubeTraininghisdevilishEnginrie,impal’dOneverysidewithshaddowingSquadronsDeep,Tohidethefraud.AtinterviewbothstoodAwhile,butsuddenlyatheadappeerdSatan:AndthuswasheardCommandingloud.Vanguard,toRightandLefttheFrontunfould;Thatallmayseewhohateus,howweseekPeaceandcomposure,andwithopenbrest(560)Standreadietoreceivethem,iftheylikeOuroverture,andturnnotbackperverse;

ButthatIdoubt,howeverwitnessHeaven,Heav’nwitnessthouanon,whilewedischargeFreelyourpart;yeewhoappointedstandDoasyouhaveincharge,andbrieflytouchWhatwepropound,andloudthatallmayhear.Soscoffinginambiguouswords,hescarceHadended;whentoRightandLefttheFrontDivided,andtoeitherFlankretir’d.(570)Whichtooureyesdiscoverdnewandstrange,Atriple-mountedrowofPillarslaidOnWheels(forliketoPillarsmosttheyseem’dOrhollow’dbodiesmadeofOakorFirrWithbrancheslopt,inWoodorMountainfell’d)Brass,Iron,Stoniemould,hadnotthirmouthesWithhideousorificegap’tonuswide,Portendinghollowtruce;ateachbehindASeraphstood,andinhishandaReedStoodwavingtiptwithfire;whilewesuspense,(580)Collectedstoodwithinourthoughtsamus’d,Notlong,forsuddenallatoncethirReedsPutforth,andtoanarrowventappli’dWithnicesttouch.Immediateinaflame,Butsoonobscur’dwithsmoak,allHeav’nappeerd,FromthosedeepthroatedEnginsbelcht,whoseroarEmboweldwithoutragiousnoisetheAir,Andallherentrailstore,disgorgingfouleThirdevillishglut,chaindThunderboltsandHail

OfIronGlobes,whichontheVictorHost(590)Level’d,withsuchimpetuousfuriesmote,Thatwhomtheyhit,noneonthirfeetmightstand,ThoughstandingelseasRocks,butdowntheyfellBythousands,AngelonArch-Angelrowl’d;ThesoonerforthirArms,unarm’dtheymightHaveeasilyasSpiritsevadedswiftByquickcontractionorremove;butnowFouledissipationfollow’dandforc’trout;Norserv’dittorelaxthirserriedfiles.(600)Whatshouldtheydo?ifontheyrusht,repulseRepeated,andindecentoverthrowDoubl’d,wouldrenderthemyetmoredespis’d,Andtothirfoesalaughter;forinviewStoodranktofSeraphimanotherrowInposturetodisplodethirsecondtireOfThunder:backdefeatedtoreturnTheyworseabhorr’d.Satanbeheldthirplight,AndtohisMatesthusinderisioncall’d.OFriends,whycomenotontheseVictorsproud?Erewhiletheyfiercewerecoming,andwhenwee,(610)ToentertainthemfairwithopenFrontAndBrest,(whatcouldwemore?)propoundedtermsOfcomposition,straittheychang’dthirminds,Flewoff,andintostrangevagariesfell,Astheywoulddance,yetforadancetheyseemdSomwhatextravagantandwilde,perhapsForjoyofofferdpeace:butIsuppose

IfourproposalsonceagainwereheardWeshouldcompelthemtoaquickresult.TowhomthusBelialinlikegamesommood,(620)Leader,thetermswesentweretermsofweight,Ofhardcontents,andfullofforceurg’dhome,Suchaswemightperceiveamus’dthemall,Andstumbl’dmany,whoreceivesthemright,Hadneedfromheadtofootwellunderstand;Notunderstood,thisgifttheyhavebesides,Theyshewuswhenourfoeswalknotupright.SotheyamongthemselvesinpleasantveineStoodscoffing,highthn’dinthirthoughtsbeyondAlldoubtofVictorie,eternalmight(630)Tomatchwiththirinventionstheypresum’dSoeasie,andofhisThundermadeascorn,AndallhisHostderided,whiletheystoodAwhileintrouble;buttheystoodnotlong,Ragepromptedthematlength,andfoundthemarmsAgainstsuchhellishmischieffittooppose.Forthwith(beholdtheexcellence,thepowerWhichGodhathinhismightyAngelsplac’d)ThirArmsawaytheythrew,andtotheHills(ForEarthhaththisvarietyfromHeav’n(640)OfpleasuresituateinHillandDale)LightastheLightningglimpstheyran,theyflew,FromthirfoundationsloosningtoandfroTheypluckttheseatedHillswithallthirload,Rocks,Waters,Woods,andbytheshaggietops

Upliftingboretheminthirhands:Amaze,Besure,andterrourseis’dtherebelHost,WhencomingtowardsthemsodreadtheysawThebottomoftheMountainsupwardturn’d,TillonthosecursedEnginstriple-row(650)Theysawthemwhelmd,andallthirconfidenceUndertheweightofMountainsburieddeep,Themselvesinvadednext,andonthirheadsMainPromontoriesflung,whichintheAirCameshadowing,andopprestwholeLegionsarm’d,Thirarmorhelp’dthirharm,crush’tinandbruis’dIntothirsubstancepent,whichwroughtthempainImplacable,andmanyadolorousgroan,Longstruglingunderneath,eretheycouldwindOutofsuchprison,thoughSpiritsofpurestlight,(660)Purestatfirst,nowgrossbysinninggrown.TherestinimitationtolikeArmesBetookthem,andtheneighbouringHillsuptore;SoHillsamidtheAirencounterdHillsHurl’dtoandfrowithjaculationdire,Thatundergroundtheyfoughtindismalshade;Infernalnoise;Warrseem’dacivilGameTothisuproar;horridconfusionheaptUponconfusionrose:andnowallHeav’nHadgonetowrack,withruinoverspred,(670)Hadnotth’AlmightieFatherwherehesitsShrin’dinhisSanctuarieofHeav’nsecure,

Consultingonthesumofthings,foreseenThistumult,andpermittedall,advis’d:Thathisgreatpurposehemightsofulfill,TohonourhisAnointedSonaveng’dUponhisenemies,andtodeclareAllpoweronhimtransferr’d:whencetohisSonTh’AssessorofhisThronehethusbegan.EffulgenceofmyGlorie,Sonbelov’d,(680)SoninwhosefaceinvisibleisbeheldVisibly,whatbyDeitieIam,AndinwhosehandwhatbyDecreeIdoe,SecondOmnipotence,twodayesarepast,Twodayes,aswecomputethedayesofHeav’n,SinceMichaelandhisPowerswentforthtotameThesedisobedient;sorehathbeenthirfight,Aslikeliestwas,whentwosuchFoesmetarm’d;FortothemselvesIleftthem,andthouknowst,EqualintheirCreationtheywereform’d,(690)Savewhatsinhathimpaird,whichyethathwroughtInsensibly,forIsuspendthirdoom;WhenceinperpetualfighttheyneedsmustlastEndless,andnosolutionwillbefound:Warrweariedhathperform’dwhatWarrcando,Andtodisorder’drageletloosethereines,WithMountainsaswithWeaponsarm’d,whichmakesWildworkinHeav’n,anddangeroustothemaine.Twodayesarethereforepast,thethirdisthine;FortheeIhaveordain’dit,andthusfarr(700)

Havesufferd,thattheGloriemaybethineOfendingthisgreatWarr,sincenonebutThouCanendit.IntotheesuchVertueandGraceImmenseIhavetransfus’d,thatallmayknowInHeav’nandHellthyPowerabovecompare,AndthisperverseCommotiongoverndthus,TomanifesttheeworthiesttobeHeirOfallthings,tobeHeirandtobeKingBySacredUnction,thydeservedright.GothenthouMightiestinthyFathersmight,(710)AscendmyChariot,guidetherapidWheelesThatshakeHeav’nsbasis,bringforthallmyWarr,MyBowandThunder,myAlmightieArmsGirdon,andSworduponthypuissantThigh;PursuethesesonsofDarkness,drivethemoutFromallHeav’nsboundsintotheutterDeep:Thereletthemlearn,aslikesthem,todespiseGodandMessiahhisanointedKing.Hesaid,andonhisSonwithRayesdirectShonfull,heallhisFatherfullexprest(720)Ineffablyintohisfacereceiv’d,AndthusthefilialGodheadansweringspake.OFather,OSupreamofheav’nlyThrones,First,Highest,Holiest,Best,thoualwayesseekstToglorifiethySon,Ialwayesthee,Asismostjust;thisImyGlorieaccount,Myexaltation,andmywholedelight,Thatthouinmewellpleas’d,declarstthywill

Fulfill’d,whichtofulfilisallmybliss.ScepterandPower,thygiving,Iassume,(730)Andgladliershallresign,whenintheendThoushaltbeAllinAll,andIintheeForever,andinmeeallwhomthoulov’st:Butwhomthouhat’st,Ihate,andcanputonThyterrors,asIputthymildnesson,Imageoftheeinallthings;andshallsoon,Armdwiththymight,ridheav’noftheserebell’d,Tothirprepar’dillMansiondrivendownTochainsofdarkness,andth’undyingWorm,Thatfromthyjustobediencecouldrevolt,(740)Whomtoobeyishappinessentire.ThenshallthySaintsunmixt,andfromth’impureFarrseparate,circlingthyholyMountUnfainedHalleluiahstotheesing,Hymnsofhighpraise,andIamongthemchief.Sosaid,heo’rehisScepterbowing,roseFromtherighthandofGloriewherehesate,AndthethirdsacredMornbegantoshineDawningthroughHeav’n:forthrush’dwithwhirl-windsoundTheChariotofPaternalDeitie,(750)Flashingthickflames,WheelewithinWheeleundrawn,ItselfinstinctwithSpirit,butconvoydByfourCherubicshapes,fourFaceseachHadwondrous,aswithStarrsthirbodiesallAndWingsweresetwithEyes,withEyestheWheels

OfBeril,andcareeringFiresbetween;OverthirheadsachrystalFirmament,WhereonaSaphirThrone,inlaidwithpureAmber,andcoloursoftheshowrieArch.HeeinCelestialPanoplieallarmd(760)OfradiantUrim,workdivinelywrought,Ascended,athisrighthandVictorieSateEagle-wing’d,besidehimhunghisBowAndQuiverwiththree-boltedThunderstor’d,AndfromabouthimfierceEffusionrowldOfsmoakandbickeringflame,andsparklesdire;AttendedwithtenthousandthousandSaints,Heonwardcame,farroffhiscomingshon,Andtwentiethousand(Ithirnumberheard)ChariotsofGod,halfoneachhandwereseen:(770)HeeonthewingsofCherubrodesublimeOntheChrystallinSkie,inSaphirThron’d.Illustriousfarrandwide,butbyhisownFirstseen,themunexpectedjoysurpriz’d,WhenthegreatEnsignofMessiahblaz’dAloftbyAngelsborn,hisSigninHeav’n:UnderwhoseConductMichaelsoonreduc’dHisArmie,circumfus’doneitherWing,UnderthirHeadimbodiedallinone.BeforehimPowerDivinehiswayprepar’d;(780)AthiscommandtheuprootedHillsretir’dEachtohisplace,theyheardhisvoiceandwentObsequious,Heav’nhiswontedfacerenewd,

AndwithfreshFlouretsHillandValleysmil’d.ThissawhishaplessFoes,butstoodobdur’d,AndtorebelliousfightralliedthirPowersInsensate,hopeconceivingfromdespair.Inheav’nlySpiritscouldsuchperversenessdwell?ButtoconvincetheproudwhatSignsavaile,OrWondersmoveth’obduratetorelent?(790)Theyhard’ndmorebywhatmightmostreclame,GrievingtoseehisGlorie,atthesightTookenvie,andaspiringtohishighth,Stoodreimbattell’dfierce,byforceorfraudWeeningtoprosper,andatlengthprevaileAgainstGodandMessiah,ortofallInuniversalruinlast,andnowTofinalBatteldrew,disdainingflight,Orfaintretreat;whenthegreatSonofGodToallhisHostoneitherhandthusspake.(800)StandstillinbrightarrayyeSaints,herestandYeAngelsarm’d,thisdayfromBattelrest;FaithfulhathbeenyourWarfare,andofGodAccepted,fearlessinhisrighteousCause,Andasyehavereceivd,sohaveyedonInvincibly;butofthiscursedcrewThepunishmenttootherhandbelongs,Vengeanceishis,orwhosehesoleappoints;Numbertothisdayesworkisnotordain’dNormultitude,standonelyandbehold(810)GodsindignationontheseGodlesspourd

Bymee,notyoubutmeetheyhavedespis’d,Yetenvied;againstmeeisallthirrage,BecausetheFather,t’whominHeav’nsupreamKingdomandPowerandGlorieappertains,Hathhonourdmeaccordingtohiswill.Thereforetomeethirdoomhehathassig’n’d;Thattheymayhavethirwish,totriewithmeeInBattelwhichthestrongerproves,theyall,OrIaloneagainstthem,sincebystrength(820)Theymeasureall,ofotherexcellenceNotemulous,norcarewhothemexcells;NorotherstrifewiththemdoIvoutsafe.SospaketheSon,andintoterrourchang’dHiscount’nancetooseveretobebeheldAndfullofwrauthbentonhisEnemies.AtoncetheFourspredoutthirStarriewingsWithdreadfulshadecontiguous,andtheOrbesOfhisfierceChariotrowld,aswiththesoundOftorrentFloods,orofanumerousHost.(830)HeeonhisimpiousFoesrightonwarddrove,GloomieasNight;underhisburningWheelesThestedfastEmpyreanshookthroughout,AllbuttheThroneitselfofGod.FullsoonAmongthemhearriv’d;inhisrighthandGraspingtenthousandThunders,whichhesentBeforehim,suchasinthirSoulesinfix’dPlagues;theyastonishtallresistancelost,

Allcourage;downthiridleweaponsdrop’d;O’reShieldsandHelmes,andhelmedheadsherode(840)OfThronesandmightySeraphimprostrate,Thatwish’dtheMountainsnowmightbeagainThrownonthemasashelterfromhisire.NorlessoneithersidetempestuousfellHisarrows,fromthefourfold-visag’dFoure,Distinctwitheyes,andfromthelivingWheels,Distinctalikewithmultitudeofeyes,OneSpiritinthemrul’d,andeveryeyeGlar’dlightning,andshotforthperniciousfireAmongth’accurst,thatwitherdallthirstrength,(850)Andofthirwontedvigourleftthemdraind,Exhausted,spiritless,afflicted,fall’n.Yethalfhisstrengthheputnotforth,butcheck’dHisThunderinmidVolie,forhemeantNottodestroy,butrootthemoutofHeav’n:Theoverthrownherais’d,andasaHeardOfGoatsortimerousflocktogetherthrongdDrovethembeforehimThunder-struck,pursu’dWithterrorsandwithfuriestotheboundsAndChrystallwallofHeav’n,whichop’ningwide,(860)Rowldinward,andaspaciousGapdisclos’dIntothewastfulDeep;themonstroussightStrookthemwithhorrorbackward,butfarworseUrg’dthembehind;headlongthemselvestheythrewDownfromthevergeofHeav’n,EternalwrauthBurntafterthemtothebottomlesspit.

Hellheardth’unsufferablenoise,HellsawHeav’nruiningfromHeav’nandwouldhavefledAffrighted;butstrictFatehadcasttoodeepHerdarkfoundations,andtoofasthadbound.(870)Ninedayestheyfell;confoundedChaosroard,AndfelttenfoldconfusioninthirfallThroughhiswildeAnarchie,sohugearoutIncumberdhimwithruin:HellatlastYawningreceavdthemwhole,andonthemclos’d,HellthirfithabitationfraughtwithfireUnquenchable,thehouseofwoeandpaine.Disburd’ndHeav’nrejoic’d,andsoonrepairdHermuralbreach,returningwhenceitrowld.SoleVictorfromth’expulsionofhisFoes(880)MessiahhistriumphalChariotturnd:TomeethimallhisSaints,whosilentstoodEyewitnessesofhisAlmightieActs,WithJubilieadvanc’d;andastheywent,ShadedwithbranchingPalme,eachorderbright,SungTriumph,andhimsungVictoriousKing,Son,Heire,andLord,tohimDominiongiv’n,WorthiesttoReign:hecelebratedrodeTriumphantthroughmidHeav’n,intotheCourtsAndTempleofhismightieFatherThron’d(890)Onhigh:whointoGloriehimreceav’d,Wherenowhesitsattherighthandofbliss.ThusmeasuringthingsinHeav’nbythingsonEarthAtthyrequest,andthatthoumaistbeware

Bywhatispast,totheeIhavereveal’dWhatmighthaveelsetohumanRacebinhid;Thediscordwhichbefel,andWarrinHeav’nAmongth’AngelicPowers,andthedeepfallOfthosetoohighaspiring,whorebelldWithSatan,heewhoenviesnowthystate,(900)WhonowisplottinghowhemayseduceTheealsofromobedience,thatwithhimBereavdofhappinessthoumaistpartakeHispunishment,Eternalmiserie;Whichwouldbeallhissolaceandrevenge,AsadespitedonagainstthemostHigh,TheeoncetogaineCompanionofhiswoe.Butlist’nnottohisTemptations,warneThyweaker;letitprofittheetohaveheardByterribleExamplethereward(910)Ofdisobedience;firmtheymighthavestood,Yetfell;remember,andfeartotransgress.

TheEndoftheSixthBook.

Book VII

TheArgument

RaphaelattherequestofAdamrelateshowandwhereforethisworldwasfirstcreated;thatGod,aftertheexpellingofSatanandhisAngelsoutofHeaven,declar’dhispleasuretocreateanotherWorldandotherCreaturestodwelltherein;sendshisSonwithGlory

and attendance of Angels to perform the work of Creation in six dayes: the Angels

celebratewithHymnstheperformancethereof,andhisreascentionintoHeaven.

DescendfromHeav’nUrania,bythatnameIfrightlythouartcall’d,whoseVoicedivineFollowing,aboveth’OlympianHillIsoare,AbovetheflightofPegaseanwing.Themeaning,nottheNameIcall:forthouNoroftheMusesnine,noronthetopOfoldOlympusdwell’st,butHeav’nlieborne,BeforetheHillsappeerd,orFountainflow’d,ThouwithEternalWisdomdidstconverse,WisdomthySister,andwithherdidstplay(10)Inpresenceofth’AlmightieFather,pleas’dWiththyCelestialSong.UpledbytheeIntotheHeav’nofHeav’nsIhavepresum’d,AnEarthlieGuest,anddrawnEmpyrealAire,

Thytempring;withlikesafetieguideddownReturnmetomyNativeElement:LeastfromthisflyingSteedunrein’d,(asonceBellerophon,thoughfromalowerClime)Dismounted,onth’AleianFieldIfallErroneous,theretowanderandforlorne.(20)Halfyetremainesunsung,butnarrowerboundWithinthevisibleDiurnalSpheare;StandingonEarth,notraptabovethePole,MoresafeISingwithmortalvoice,unchang’dTohoarceormute,thoughfall’nonevildayes,Onevildayesthoughfall’n,andeviltongues;Indarkness,andwithdangerscompastrouud,Andsolitude;yetnotalone,whilethouVisit’stmyslumbersNightly,orwhenMornPurplestheEast:stillgovernthoumySong,(30)Urania,andfitaudiencefind,thoughfew.ButdrivefarroffthebarbarousdissonanceOfBacchusandhisRevellers,theRaceOfthatwildeRoutthattoretheThracianBardInRhodope,whereWoodsandRockshadEaresTorapture,tillthesavageclamordroundBothHarpandVoice;norcouldtheMusedefendHerSon.Sofailnotthou,whotheeimplores:ForthouartHeav’nlie,sheeanemptydreame.SayGoddess,whatensu’dwhenRaphael,(40)TheaffableArch-angel,hadforewarn’dAdambydireexampletobeware

Apostasie,bywhatbefellinHeavenTothoseApostates,leastthelikebefallInParadisetoAdamorhisRace,Charg’dnottotouchtheinterdictedTree,Iftheytransgress,andslightthatsolecommand,SoeasilyobeydamidthechoiceOfalltastselsetopleasethirappetite,Thoughwandring.HewithhisconsortedEve(50)Thestorieheardattentive,andwasfill’dWithadmiration,anddeepMusetoheareOfthingssohighandstrange,thingstothirthoughtSounimaginableashateinHeav’n,AndWarrsoneerthePeaceofGodinblissWithsuchconfusion:buttheevilsoonDriv’nbackredoundedasafloodonthoseFromwhomitsprung,impossibletomixWithBlessedness.WhenceAdamsoonrepeal’dThedoubtsthatinhisheartarose:andnow(60)Ledon,yetsinless,withdesiretoknowWhatneerermightconcernhim,howthisWorldOfHeav’nandEarthconspicuousfirstbegan,When,andwhereofcreated,forwhatcause,WhatwithinEdenorwithoutwasdoneBeforehismemorie,asonewhosedrouthYetscarceallay’dstilleyesthecurrentstreame,Whoseliquidmurmurheardnewthirstexcites,ProceededthustoaskhisHeav’nlyGuest.Greatthings,andfullofwonderinoureares,(70)

FarrdifferingfromthisWorld,thouhastreveal’dDivineInterpreter,byfavoursentDownfromtheEmpyreantoforewarneUstimelyofwhatmightelsehavebinourloss,Unknown,whichhumanknowledgcouldnotreach:ForwhichtotheinfinitlyGoodweoweImmortalthanks,andhisadmonishmentReceavewithsolemnepurposetoobserveImmutablyhissovranwill,theendOfwhatweare.Butsincethouhastvoutsaf’t(80)GentlyforourinstructiontoimpartThingsaboveEarthlythought,whichyetconcerndOurknowing,astohighestwisdomseemd,Deigntodescendnowlower,andrelateWhatmaynolessperhapsavaileusknown,HowfirstbeganthisHeav’nwhichwebeholdDistantsohigh,withmovingFiresadorndInnumerable,andthiswhichyeeldsorfillsAllspace,theambientAire,wideinterfus’dImbracingroundthisfloridEarth,whatcause(90)Mov’dtheCreatorinhisholyRestThroughallEternitiesolatetobuildInChaos,andtheworkbegun,howsoonAbsolv’d,ifunforbidthoumaistunfouldWhatwee,nottoexplorethesecretsaskeOfhisEternalEmpire,butthemoreTomagnifiehisworks,themoreweknow.

AndthegreatLightofDayyetwantstorunMuchofhisRacethoughsteep,suspensinHeav’nHeldbythyvoice,thypotentvoiceheheares,(100)AndlongerwilldelaytohearetheetellHisGeneration,andtherisingBirthOfNaturefromtheunapparentDeep:OriftheStarrofEevningandtheMoonHastetothyaudience,NightwithherwillbringSilence,andSleeplistningtotheewillwatch,Orwecanbidhisabsence,tillthySongEnd,anddismisstheeeretheMorningshine.ThusAdamhisillustriousGuestbesought:AndthustheGodlikeAngelanswerdmilde.(110)ThisalsothyrequestwithcautionasktObtaine:thoughtorecountAlmightieworksWhatwordsortongueofSeraphcansuffice,Orheartofmansufficetocomprehend?Yetwhatthoucanstattain,whichbestmayserveToglorifietheMaker,andinferrTheealsohappier,shallnotbewithheldThyhearing,suchCommissionfromaboveIhavereceav’d,toanswerthydesireOfknowledgewithinbounds;beyondabstain(120)Toask,norletthineowninventionshopeThingsnotreveal’d,whichth’invisibleKing,OnelyOmniscient,hathsupprestinNight,TononecommunicableinEarthorHeaven:Anoughisleftbesidestosearchandknow.

ButKnowledgeisasfood,andneedsnolessHerTemperanceoverAppetite,toknowInmeasurewhatthemindmaywellcontain,OppresseselsewithSurfet,andsoonturnsWisdomtoFolly,asNourishmenttoWinde.(130)Knowthen,thatafterLuciferfromHeav’n(Socallhim,brighteronceamidsttheHostOfAngels,thenthatStarrtheStarrsamong)FellwithhisflamingLegionsthroughtheDeepIntohisplace,andthegreatSonreturndVictoriouswithhisSaints,th’OmnipotentEternalFatherfromhisThronebeheldThirmultitude,andtohisSonthusspake.AtleastourenviousFoehathfail’d,whothoughtAlllikehimselfrebellious,bywhoseaid(140)Thisinaccessiblehighstrength,theseatOfDeitiesupream,usdispossest,Hetrustedtohaveseis’d,andintofraudDrewmany,whomthirplaceknowsherenomore;Yetfarrthegreaterparthavekept,Isee,Thirstation,Heav’nyetpopulousretainesNumbersufficienttopossessherRealmesThoughwide,andthishighTempletofrequentWithMinisteriesdueandsolemnRites:Butleasthisheartexalthimintheharme(150)Alreadydone,tohavedispeopl’dHeav’n,Mydamagefondlydeem’d,IcanrepaireThatdetriment,ifsuchitbetolose

Self-lost,andinamomentwillcreateAnotherWorld,outofonemanaRaceOfmeninnumerable,theretodwell,Nothere,tillbydegreesofmeritrais’dTheyopentothemselvesatlengththewayUphither,underlongobediencetri’d,AndEarthbechang’dtoHeav’n,andHeav’ntoEarth,(160)OneKingdom,JoyandUnionwithoutend.Meanwhileinhabitlaxe,yePowersofHeav’n,AndbymyWord,begottenSon,bytheeThisIperform,speakthou,andbeitdon:MyovershadowingSpiritandmightwiththeeIsendalong,rideforth,andbidtheDeepWithinappointedboundsbeHeav’nandEarth,BoundlesstheDeep,becauseIamwhofillInfinitude,norvacuousthespace.ThoughIuncircumscrib’dmyselfretire,(170)Andputnotforthmygoodness,whichisfreeToactornot,NecessitieandChanceApproachnotmee,andwhatIwillisFate.Sospaketh’Almightie,andtowhathespakeHisWord,theFilialGodhead,gaveeffect.ImmediatearetheActsofGod,moreswiftThentimeormotion,buttohumanearsCannotwithoutprocessofspeechbetold,Sotoldasearthlynotioncanreceave.GreattriumphandrejoycingwasinHeav’n(180)

Whensuchwashearddeclar’dtheAlmightie’swill;GlorietheysungtothemostHigh,goodwillTofuturemen,andinthirdwellingspeace:GlorietohimwhosejustavengingireHaddrivenoutth’ungodlyfromhissightAndth’habitationsofthejust;tohimGlorieandpraise,whosewisdomhadordain’dGoodoutofeviltocreate,insteadOfSpiritsmaligneabetterRacetobringIntothirvacantroom,andthencediffuse(190)HisgoodtoWorldsandAgesinfinite.SosangtheHierarchies:MeanwhiletheSonOnhisgreatExpeditionnowappeer’d,GirtwithOmnipotence,withRadiancecrown’dOfMajestieDivine,SapienceandLoveImmense,andallhisFatherinhimshon.AbouthisChariotnumberlesswerepour’dCherubandSeraph,PotentatesandThrones,AndVertues,wingedSpirits,andChariotswing’d,FromtheArmouryofGod,wherestandofold(200)MyriadsbetweentwobrazenMountainslodg’dAgainstasolemnday,harnestathand,CelestialEquipage;andnowcameforthSpontaneous,forwithinthemSpiritlivd,AttendantonthirLord:Heav’nop’ndwideHereverduringGates,HarmonioussoundOngoldenHingesmoving,toletforthTheKingofGlorieinhispowerfulWord

AndSpiritcomingtocreatenewWorlds.Onheav’nlygroundtheystood,andfromtheshore(210)Theyview’dthevastimmeasurableAbyssOutrageousasaSea,dark,wasteful,wilde,Upfromthebottomturn’dbyfuriouswindesAndsurgingwaves,asMountainstoassaultHeav’nshighth,andwiththeCentermixthePole.Silence,yetroubl’dwaves,andthouDeep,peace,Saidthenth’OmnificWord,yourdiscordend:Norstaid,butontheWingsofCherubimUplifted,inPaternalGlorierodeFarrintoChaos,andtheWorldunborn;(220)ForChaosheardhisvoice:himallhisTraineFollow’dinbrightprocessiontobeholdCreation,andthewondersofhismight.ThenstaidthefervidWheeles,andinhishandHetookthegoldenCompasses,prepar’dInGodsEternalstore,tocircumscribeThisUniverse,andallcreatedthings:Onefoothecenter’d,andtheotherturn’dRoundthroughthevastprofunditieobscure,Andsaid,thusfarrextend,thusfarrthybounds,(230)ThisbethyjustCircumference,OWorld.ThusGodtheHeav’ncreated,thustheEarth,Matterunform’dandvoid:DarknessprofoundCover’dth’Abyss:butonthewatriecalmeHisbroodingwingstheSpiritofGodoutspred,Andvitalvertueinfus’d,andvitalwarmth

ThroughoutthefluidMass,butdownwardpurg’dTheblacktartareouscoldinfernaldregsAdversetolife:thenfounded,thenconglob’dLikethingstolike,theresttoseveralplace(240)Disparted,andbetweenspunouttheAir,AndEarthself-ballanc’tonherCenterhung.LettherbeLight,saidGod,andforthwithLightEthereal,firstofthings,quintessencepureSprungfromtheDeep,andfromherNativeEastTojourniethroughtheairiegloombegan,Sphear’dinaradiantCloud,foryettheSunWasnot;sheeinacloudieTabernacleSojourn’dthewhile.GodsawtheLightwasgood;AndlightfromdarknessbytheHemisphere(250)Divided:LighttheDay,andDarknessNightHenam’d.ThuswasthefirstDayEev’nandMorn:Norpastuncelebrated,norunsungBytheCelestialQuires,whenOrientLightExhalingfirstfromDarknesstheybeheld;Birth-dayofHeav’nandEarth;withjoyandshoutThehollowUniversalOrbtheyfill’d,Andtouch’tthirGoldenHarps,andhymningprais’dGodandhisworks,Creatourhimtheysung,BothwhenfirstEevningwas,andwhenfirstMorn.(260)Again,Godsaid,lettherbeFirmamentAmidtheWaters,andletitdivideTheWatersfromtheWaters:andGodmade

TheFirmament,expanseofliquid,pure,Transparent,ElementalAir,diffus’dIncircuittotheuttermostconvexOfthisgreatRound:partitionfirmandsure,TheWatersunderneathfromthoseaboveDividing:forasEarth,soheetheWorldBuiltoncircumfluousWaterscalme,inwide(270)CrystallinOcean,andtheloudmisruleOfChaosfarrremov’d,leastfierceextreamesContiguousmightdistemperthewholeframe:AndHeav’nhenam’dtheFirmament:SoEev’nAndMorningChorussungthesecondDay.TheEarthwasform’d,butintheWombasyetOfWaters,Embryonimmatureinvolv’d,Appeer’dnot:overallthefaceofEarthMainOceanflow’d,notidle,butwithwarmeProlifichumoursoft’ningallherGlobe,(280)FermentedthegreatMothertoconceave,Satiatewithgenialmoisture,whenGodsaidBegather’dnowyeWatersunderHeav’nIntooneplace,andletdryLandappeer.ImmediatelytheMountainshugeappeerEmergent,andthirbroadbarebacksupheaveIntotheClouds,thirtopsascendtheSkie:Sohighasheav’dthetumidHills,solowDownsunkahollowbottombroadanddeep,CapaciousbedofWaters:thitherthey(290)Hastedwithgladprecipitance,uprowld

Asdropsondustconglobingfromthedrie;PartriseincrystalWall,orridgedirect,Forhaste;suchflightthegreatcommandimpress’dOntheswiftflouds:asArmiesatthecallOfTrumpet(forofArmiesthouhastheard)TrooptothirStandard,sothewatriethrong,WaverowlingafterWave,wherewaytheyfound,Ifsteep,withtorrentrapture,ifthroughPlaine,Soft-ebbing;norwithstoodthemRockorHill,(300)Butthey,orunderground,orcircuitwideWithSerpenterrourwandring,foundthirway,AndonthewashieOosedeepChannelswore;Easie,e’reGodhadbidthegroundbedrie,Allbutwithinthosebanks,whereRiversnowStream,andperpetualdrawthirhumidtraine.ThedryLand,Earth,andthegreatreceptacleOfcongregatedWatershecall’dSeas:Andsawthatitwasgood,andsaid,Letth’EarthPutforththeverdantGrass,HerbyieldingSeed,(310)AndFruitTreeyieldingFruitafterherkind;WhoseSeedisinherselfupontheEarth.Hescarcehadsaid,whenthebareEarth,tillthenDesertandbare,unsightly,unadorn’d,BroughtforththetenderGrass,whoseverdurecladHerUniversalFacewithpleasantgreen,ThenHerbsofeveryleaf,thatsuddenflour’dOp’ningthirvariouscolours,andmadegayHerbosomsmellingsweet:andthesescarceblown,

Forthflourish’tthicktheclustringVine,forthcrept(320)ThesmellingGourd,upstoodthecornieReedEmbattell’dinherfield:andthehumbleShrub,AndBushwithfrizl’dhairimplicit:lastRoseasinDancethestatelyTrees,andspredThirbrancheshungwithcopiousFruit;orgemm’dThirblossoms:withhighWoodstheHillswerecrownd,Withtuftsthevalliesandeachfountainside,WithborderslongtheRivers.ThatEarthnowSeemdliketoHeav’n,aseatwhereGodsmightdwell,Orwanderwithdelight,andlovetohaunt(330)Hersacredshades:thoughGodhadyetnotrain’dUpontheEarth,andmantotillthegroundNonewas,butfromtheEarthadewieMistWentupandwaterdalltheground,andeachPlantofthefield,whiche’reitwasintheEarthGodmade,andeveryHerb,beforeitgrewOnthegreenstemm;Godsawthatitwasgood:SoEev’nandMornrecordedtheThirdDay.Againth’Almightiespake:LettherebeLightsHighinth’expanseofHeaventodivide(340)TheDayfromNight;andletthembeforSignes,ForSeasons,andforDayes,andcirclingYears,AndletthembeforLightsasIordaineThirOfficeintheFirmamentofHeav’nTogiveLightontheEarth;anditwasso.AndGodmadetwogreatLights,greatforthiruse

ToMan,thegreatertohaverulebyDay,ThelessbyNightalterne:andmadetheStarrs,AndsetthemintheFirmamentofHeav’nToilluminatetheEarth,andruletheDay(350)Inthirvicissitude,andruletheNight,AndLightfromDarknesstodivide.Godsaw,SurveyinghisgreatWork,thatitwasgood:ForofCelestialBodiesfirsttheSunAmightieSphearehefram’d,unlightsomfirst,ThoughofEtherealMould:thenform’dtheMoonGlobose,andeveriemagnitudeofStarrs,AndsowdwithStarrstheHeav’nthickasafield:OfLightbyfarrthegreaterparthetook,TransplantedfromhercloudieShrine,andplac’d(360)IntheSunsOrb,madeporoustoreceiveAnddrinktheliquidLight,firmtoretaineHergather’dbeams,greatPalacenowofLight.HitherastothirFountainotherStarrsRepairing,inthirgold’nUrnsdrawLight,AndhencetheMorningPlanetguildshishorns;BytinctureorreflectiontheyaugmentThirsmallpeculiar,thoughfromhumansightSofarrremote,withdiminutionseen.FirstinhisEastthegloriousLampwasseen,(370)RegentofDay,andallth’HorizonroundInvestedwithbrightRayes,jocondtorunHisLongitudethroughHeav’nshighrode:thegrayDawn,andthePleiadesbeforehimdanc’d

Sheddingsweetinfluence:lessbrighttheMoon,ButoppositeinleveldWestwassetHismirror,withfullfaceborrowingherLightFromhim,forotherlightsheneedednoneInthataspect,andstillthatdistancekeepesTillnight,thenintheEastherturnsheshines,(380)RevolvdonHeav’nsgreatAxle,andherReignWiththousandlesserLightsdividualholds,WiththousandthousandStarres,thatthenappeer’dSpanglingtheHemisphere:thenfirstadorndWiththirbrightLuminariesthatSetandRose,GladEevningandgladMorncrowndthefourthday.AndGodsaid,lettheWatersgenerateReptilwithSpawnabundant,livingSoule:AndletFowleflieabovetheEarth,withwingsDisplaydontheop’nFirmamentofHeav’n.(390)AndGodcreatedthegreatWhales,andeachSoulliving,eachthatcrept,whichplenteouslyThewatersgeneratedbythirkindes,AndeveryBirdofwingafterhiskinde;Andsawthatitwasgood,andbless’dthem,saying,Befruitful,multiply,andintheSeasAndLakesandrunningStreamsthewatersfill;AndlettheFowlebemultiply’dontheEarth.ForthwiththeSoundsandSeas,eachCreekandBayWithFrieinnumerableswarme,andShoales(400)OfFishthatwiththirFinnsandshiningScalesGlideunderthegreenWave,inScullesthatoft

BankthemidSea:partsingleorwithmateGrazetheSeaweedthirpasture,andthroughGrovesOfCoralstray,orsportingwithquickglanceShowtotheSunthirwav’dcoatsdroptwithGold,OrinthirPearlieshellsatease,attendMoistnutriment,orunderRocksthirfoodInjointedArmourwatch:onsmooththeSeale,AndbendedDolphinsplay:parthugeofbulk(410)Wallowingunweildie,enormousinthirGateTempesttheOcean:thereLeviathanHugestoflivingCreatures,ontheDeepStretchtlikeaPromontoriesleepsorswimmes,AndseemsamovingLand,andathisGillesDrawsin,andathisTrunckspoutsoutaSea.MeanwhilethetepidCaves,andFensandshoaresThirBroodasnumeroushatch,fromtheEggthatsoonBurstingwithkindlyruptureforthdisclos’dThircallowyoung,butfeatherdsoonandfledge(420)Theysumm’dthirPenns,andsoaringth’airsublimeWithclangdespis’dtheground,underacloudInprospect;theretheEagleandtheStorkOnCliffsandCedartopsthirEyriesbuild:PartlooslywingtheRegion,partmorewiseIncommon,rang’dinfigurewedgethirway,Intelligentofseasons,andsetforthThirAierieCaravanhighoverSea’sFlying,andoverLandswithmutualwing

Easingthirflight;sostearstheprudentCrane(430)HerannualVoiage,bornonWindes;theAireFloats,astheypass,fann’dwithunnumber’dplumes:FromBranchtoBranchthesmallerBirdswithsongSolac’dtheWoods,andspredthirpaintedwingsTillEv’n,northenthesolemnNightingalCeas’dwarbling,butallnighttun’dhersoftlayes:OthersonSilverLakesandRiversBath’dThirdownieBrest;theSwanwithArchedneckBetweenherwhitewingsmantlingproudly,RowesHerstatewithOariefeet:yetofttheyquit(440)TheDank,andrisingonstiffPennons,towreThemidAerealSkie:OthersongroundWalk’dfirm;thecrestedCockwhoseclarionsoundsThesilenthours,andth’otherwhosegayTraineAdornshim,colour’dwiththeFloridhueOfRainbowsandStarrieEyes.TheWatersthusWithFishreplenisht,andtheAirewithFowle,Ev’ningandMornsolemniz’dtheFiftday.TheSixt,andofCreationlastaroseWithEevningHarpsandMattin,whenGodsaid,(450)Letth’EarthbringforthFowlelivinginherkinde,CattelandCreepingthings,andBeastoftheEarth,Eachintheirkinde.TheEarthobey’d,andstraitOp’ningherfertileWoombteem’dataBirthInnumerouslivingCreatures,perfetformes,Limb’dandfullgrown:outofthegrounduproseAsfromhisLairethewildeBeastwherehewonns

InForrestwilde,inThicket,Brake,orDen;AmongtheTreesinPairstheyrose,theywalk’d:TheCattelintheFieldsandMeddowesgreen:(460)Thoserareandsolitarie,theseinflocksPasturingatonce,andinbroadHerdsupsprung.ThegrassieClodsnowCalv’d,nowhalfappeer’dTheTawnieLion,pawingtogetfreeHishinderparts,thenspringsasbrokefromBonds,AndRampantshakeshisBrindedmain;theOunce,TheLibbard,andtheTyger,astheMoaleRising,thecrumbl’dEarthabovethemthrewInHillocks;theswiftStagfromundergroundBoreuphisbranchinghead:scarsefromhismould(470)BehemothbiggestbornofEarthupheav’dHisvastness:Fleec’ttheFlocksandbleatingrose,AsPlants:ambiguousbetweenSeaandLandTheRiverHorseandscalieCrocodile.Atoncecameforthwhatevercreepstheground,InsectorWorme;thosewav’dthirlimberfansForwings,andsmallestLineamentsexactInalltheLiveriesdectofSummersprideWithspotsofGoldandPurple,azureandgreen:Theseasalinethirlongdimensiondrew,(480)Streakingthegroundwithsinuoustrace;notallMinimsofNature;someofSerpentkindeWondrousinlengthandcorpulenceinvolv’dThirSnakiefoulds,andaddedwings.FirstcreptTheParsimoniousEmmet,provident

Offuture,insmallroomlargeheartenclos’d,PatternofjustequalitieperhapsHereafter,join’dinherpopularTribesOfCommonaltie:swarmingnextappeer’dTheFemalBeethatfeedsherHusbandDrone(490)Deliciously,andbuildsherwaxenCellsWithHoneystor’d:therestarenumberless,AndthouthirNaturesknow’st,andgav’stthemNames,Needlesttotheerepeated;norunknownTheSerpentsuttl’stBeastofallthefield,Ofhugeextentsomtimes,withbrazenEyesAndhairieMainterrific,thoughtotheeNotnoxious,butobedientatthycall.NowHeav’ninallherGlorieshon,androwldHermotions,asthegreatfirst-Movershand(500)Firstwheeldthircourse;EarthinherrichattireConsummatelovlysmil’d;Aire,Water,Earth,ByFowl,Fish,Beast,wasflown,wasswum,waswalktFrequent;andoftheSixtdayyetremain’d;TherewantedyettheMasterwork,theendOfallyetdon;aCreaturewhonotproneAndBruteasotherCreatures,butendu’dWithSanctitieofReason,mighterectHisStature,anduprightwithFrontsereneGoverntherest,self-knowing,andfromthence(510)MagnanimoustocorrespondwithHeav’n,Butgratefultoacknowledgewhencehisgood

Descends,thitherwithheartandvoiceandeyesDirectedinDevotion,toadoreAndworshipGodSupream,whomadehimchiefOfallhisworks:thereforetheOmnipotentEternalFather(ForwhereisnotheePresent)thustohisSonaudiblyspake.LetusmakenowManinourimage,ManInoursimilitude,andletthemrule(520)OvertheFishandFowleofSeaandAire,BeastoftheField,andoveralltheEarth,Andeverycreepingthingthatcreepstheground.Thissaid,heformdthee,Adam,theeOManDustoftheground,andinthynostrilsbreath’dThebreathofLife;inhisownImageheeCreatedthee,intheImageofGodExpress,andthoubecam’stalivingSoul.Malehecreatedthee,butthyconsortFemalforRace;thenbless’dMankinde,andsaid,(530)Befruitful,multiplie,andfilltheEarth,Subdueit,andthroughoutDominionholdOverFishoftheSea,andFowleoftheAire,AndeverylivingthingthatmovesontheEarth.Whereverthuscreated,fornoplaceIsyetdistinctbyname,thence,asthouknow’stHebroughttheeintothisdeliciousGrove,ThisGarden,plantedwiththeTreesofGod,Delectablebothtobeholdandtaste;Andfreelyallthirpleasantfruitforfood(540)

Gavethee,allsortsareherethatallth’Earthyeelds,Varietiewithoutend;butoftheTreeWhichtastedworksknowledgeofGoodandEvil,Thoumai’stnot;inthedaythoueat’st,thoudi’st;Deathisthepenaltieimpos’d,beware,Andgovernwellthyappetite,leastsinSurprisethee,andherblackattendantDeath.Herefinish’dhee,andallthathehadmadeView’d,andbeholdallwasentirelygood;SoEv’nandMornaccomplish’dtheSixtday:(550)YetnottilltheCreatorfromhisworkDesisting,thoughunwearied,upreturndUptotheHeav’nofHeav’nshishighabode,ThencetobeholdthisnewcreatedWorldTh’additionofhisEmpire,howitshew’dInprospectfromhisThrone,howgood,howfaire,AnsweringhisgreatIdea.UpherodeFollowdwithacclamationandthesoundSymphoniousoftenthousandHarpesthattun’dAngelicharmonies:theEarth,theAire,(560)Resounded,(thouremember’st,forthouheardst)TheHeav’nsandalltheConstellationsrung,ThePlanetsinthirstationslist’ningstood,WhilethebrightPompascendedjubilant.Open,yeeverlastingGates,theysung,Open,yeHeav’ns,yourlivingdores;letinThegreatCreatorfromhisworkreturndMagnificent,hisSixdayswork,aWorld;

Open,andhenceforthoft;forGodwilldeigneTovisitoftthedwellingsofjustMen(570)Delighted,andwithfrequentintercourseThitherwillsendhiswingedMessengersOnerrandsofsupernalGrace.SosungThegloriousTrainascending:HethroughHeav’n,Thatopen’dwideherblazingPortals,ledToGodsEternalhousedirecttheway,Abroadandamplerode,whosedustisGoldAndpavementStarrs,asStarrstotheeappeer,SeenintheGalaxie,thatMilkiewayWhichnightlyasacirclingZonethouseest(580)PouderdwithStarrs.AndnowonEarththeSeaventhEev’ningaroseinEden,fortheSunWasset,andtwilightfromtheEastcameon,ForerunningNight;whenattheholymountOfHeav’nshigh-seatedtop,th’ImperealThroneOfGodhead,fixtforeverfirmandsure,TheFilialPowerarriv’d,andsatehimdownWithhisgreatFather(forhealsowentInvisible,yetstaid(suchpriviledgeHathOmnipresence)andtheworkordain’d,(590)Authorandendofallthings,andfromworkNowresting,bless’dandhallowdtheSeav’nthday,Asrestingonthatdayfromallhiswork,Butnotinsilenceholykept;theHarpHadworkandrestednot,thesolemnPipe,

AndDulcimer,allOrgansofsweetstop,AllsoundsonFretbyStringorGoldenWireTemper’dsoftTunings,intermixtwithVoiceChoralorUnison;ofincenseCloudsFumingfromGoldenCensershidtheMount.(600)CreationandtheSixdayesactstheysung,Greatarethyworks,Jehovah,infiniteThypower;whatthoughtcanmeasuretheeortongueRelatethee;greaternowinthyreturnThenfromtheGiantAngels;theethatdayThyThundersmagnifi’d;buttocreateIsgreaterthencreatedtodestroy.Whocanimpairthee,mightyKing,orboundThyEmpire?easilytheproudattemptOfSpiritsapostatandthirCounselsvaine(610)Thouhastrepeld,whileimpiouslytheythoughtTheetodiminish,andfromtheewithdrawThenumberofthyworshippers.WhoseekesTolessenthee,againsthispurposeservesTomanifestthemorethymight:hisevilThouusest,andfromthencecreat’stmoregood.Witnessthisnew-madeWorld,anotherHeav’nFromHeavenGatenotfarr,foundedinviewOnthecleerHyaline,theGlassieSea;Ofamplitudealmostimmense,withStarr’s(620)Numerous,andeveryStarrperhapsaWorldOfdestindhabitation;butthouknow’stThirseasons:amongthesetheseatofmen,

EarthwithhernetherOceancircumfus’d,Thirpleasantdwellingplace.Thricehappiemen,Andsonsofmen,whomGodhaththusadvanc’t,CreatedinhisImage,theretodwellAndworshiphim,andinrewardtoruleOverhisWorks,onEarth,inSea,orAir,AndmultiplyaRaceofWorshippers(630)Holyandjust:thricehappieiftheyknowThirhappiness,andpersevereupright.Sosungthey,andtheEmpyreanrung,WithHalleluiahs:ThuswasSabbathkept.Andthyrequestthinknowfulfill’d,thatask’dHowfirstthisWorldandfaceofthingsbegan,AndwhatbeforethymemoriewasdonFromthebeginning,thatposteritieInformdbytheemightknow;ifelsethouseekstAught,notsurpassinghumanmeasure,say.(640)

TheEndoftheSeventhBook.

Book VIII

TheArgument

Adaminquires concerning celestial Motions, isdoubtfullyanswer’d, and exhorted to

searchratherthingsmoreworthyof knowledg:Adamassents,andstilldesiroustodetainRaphael, relates to himwhat he remember’d since his ownCreation, his placing inParadise, his talk with God concerning solitude and fit society, his first meeting and

Nuptials withEve, his discourse with the Angel thereupon; who after admonitionsrepeateddeparts.

TheAngelended,andinAdamsEareSoCharminglefthisvoice,thatheawhileThoughthimstillspeaking,stillstoodfixttohear;Thenasnewwak’tthusgratefullyrepli’d.Whatthankssufficient,orwhatrecompenceEqualhaveItorenderthee,DivineHystorian,whothuslargelyhastallaydThethirstIhadofknowledge,andvoutsaf’tThisfriendlycondescentiontorelateThingselsebymeunsearchable,nowheard(10)Withwonder,butdelight,and,asisdue,WithglorieattributedtothehighCreator;somethingyetofdoubtremaines,

Whichonelythysolutioncanresolve.WhenIbeholdthisgoodlyFrame,thisWorldOfHeav’nandEarthconsisting,andcompute,Thirmagnitudes,thisEarthaspot,agraine,AnAtom,withtheFirmamentcompar’dAndallhernumberdStarrs,thatseemtorowleSpacesincomprehensible(forsuch(20)ThirdistancearguesandthirswiftreturnDiurnal)meerlytoofficiatelightRoundthisopacousEarth,thispunctualspot,Onedayandnight;inallthirvastsurveyUselessbesides,reasoningIoftadmire,HowNaturewiseandfrugalcouldcommitSuchdisproportions,withsuperfluoushandSomanynoblerBodiestocreate,Greatersomanifoldtothisoneuse,Foraughtappeers,andonthirOrbsimpose(30)SuchrestlessrevolutiondaybydayRepeated,whilethesedentarieEarth,Thatbettermightwithfarrlesscompassmove,Serv’dbymorenoblethenherself,attainesHerendwithoutleastmotion,andreceaves,AsTributesuchasumlessjourneybroughtOfincorporealspeed,herwarmthandlight;Speed,todescribewhoseswiftnessNumberfailes.SospakeourSire,andbyhiscount’nanceseemdEntringonstudiousthoughtsabstruse,whichEve(40)Perceavingwhereshesatretir’dinsight,

WithlowlinessMajesticfromherseat,AndGracethatwonwhosawtowishherstay,Rose,andwentforthamongherFruitsandFlours,Tovisithowtheyprosper’d,budandbloom,HerNurserie;theyathercomingsprungAndtouchtbyherfairtendancegladliergrew.Yetwentshenot,asnotwithsuchdiscourseDelighted,ornotcapablehereareOfwhatwashigh:suchpleasureshereserv’d,(50)Adamrelating,shesoleAuditress;HerHusbandtheRelatershepreferr’dBeforetheAngel,andofhimtoaskChoserather:hee,sheknewwouldintermixGratefuldigressions,andsolvehighdisputeWithconjugalCaresses,fromhisLipNotWordsalonepleas’dher.OwhenmeetnowSuchpairs,inLoveandmutualHonourjoyn’d?WithGoddess-likedemeanourforthshewent;Notunattended,foronherasQueen(60)ApompofwinningGraceswaitedstill,AndfromabouthershotDartsofdesireIntoallEyestowishherstillinsight.AndRaphaelnowtoAdam’sdoubtpropos’dBenevolentandfacilthusrepli’d.ToaskorsearchIblametheenot,forHeav’nIsastheBookofGodbeforetheeset,WhereintoreadhiswondrousWorks,andlearneHisSeasons,Hours,orDays,orMonths,orYeares:

Thistoattain,whetherHeav’nmoveorEarth,(70)Importsnot,ifthoureck’nright,therestFromManorAngelthegreatArchitectDidwiselytoconceal,andnotdivulgeHissecretstobescann’dbythemwhooughtRatheradmire;oriftheylisttotryConjecture,hehisFabricoftheHeav’nsHathlefttothirdisputes,perhapstomoveHislaughteratthirquaintOpinionswideHereafter,whentheycometomodelHeav’nAndcalculatetheStarrs,howtheywillweild(80)Themightieframe,howbuild,unbuild,contriveTosaveappeerances,howgirdtheSphearWithCentricandEccentricscribl’do’re,CycleandEpicycle,OrbinOrb:AlreadiebythyreasoningthisIguess,Whoarttoleadthyofspring,andsupposestThatBodiesbrightandgreatershouldnotserveThelessnotbright,norHeav’nsuchjourniesrun,Earthsittingstill,whenshealonereceavesThebenefit:considerfirst,thatGreat(90)OrBrightinferrsnotExcellence:theEarthThough,incomparisonofHeav’n,sosmall,Norglistering,mayofsolidgoodcontaineMoreplentythentheSunthatbarrenshines,Whosevertueonitselfworkesnoeffect,ButinthefruitfulEarth;therefirstreceavd

Hisbeams,unactiveelse,thirvigourfind.YetnottoEartharethosebrightLuminariesOfficious,buttotheeEarthshabitant.AndfortheHeav’nswideCircuit,letitspeak(100)TheMakershighmagnificence,whobuiltSospacious,andhisLinestretchtoutsofarr;ThatManmayknowhedwellsnotinhisown;AnEdificetoolargeforhimtofill,Lodg’dinasmallpartition,andtherestOrdain’dforusestohisLordbestknown.TheswiftnessofthoseCirclesattribute,Thoughnumberless,tohisOmnipotence,ThattocorporealsubstancescouldaddeSpeedalmostSpiritual;meethouthinkstnotslow,(110)WhosincetheMorninghoursetoutfromHeav’nWhereGodresides,anderemid-dayarriv’dInEden,distanceinexpressibleByNumbersthathavename.ButthisIurge,AdmittingMotionintheHeav’ns,toshewInvalidthatwhichtheetodoubtitmov’d;NotthatIsoaffirm,thoughsoitseemTotheewhohastthydwellinghereonEarth.Godtoremovehiswayesfromhumansense,Plac’dHeav’nfromEarthsofarr,thatearthlysight,(120)Ifitpresume,mighterreinthingstoohigh,Andnoadvantagegaine.WhatiftheSunBeCentertotheWorld,andotherStarrsByhisattractivevertueandthirown

Incited,danceabouthimvariousrounds?Thirwandringcoursenowhigh,nowlow,thenhid,Progressive,retrograde,orstandingstill,Insixthouseest,andwhatifsev’nthtotheseThePlanetEarth,sostedfastthoughsheseem,InsensiblythreedifferentMotionsmove?(130)WhichelsetoseveralSpheresthoumustascribe,Mov’dcontrariewiththwartobliquities,OrsavetheSunhislabour,andthatswiftNocturnalandDiurnalrhombsuppos’d,InvisibleelseaboveallStarrs,theWheeleOfDayandNight;whichneedsnotthybeleefe,IfEarthindustriousofherselffetchDayTravellingEast,andwithherpartaverseFromtheSunsbeammeetNight,herotherpartStillluminousbyhisray.Whatifthatlight(140)Sentfromherthroughthewidetranspicuousaire,TotheterrestrialMoonbeasaStarrEnlightningherbyDay,asshebyNightThisEarth?reciprocal,ifLandbethere,FieldsandInhabitants:HerspotsthouseestAsClouds,andCloudsmayrain,andRainproduceFruitsinhersoft’ndSoile,forsometoeateAllottedthere;andotherSunsperhapsWiththirattendantMoonsthouwiltdescrieCommunicatingMaleandFemalLight,(150)WhichtwogreatSexesanimatetheWorld,Stor’dineachOrbperhapswithsomethatlive.

ForsuchvastroominNatureunpossestBylivingSoule,desertanddesolate,Onelytoshine,yetscarcetocontributeEachOrbaglimpsofLight,conveydsofarrDowntothishabitable,whichreturnesLightbacktothem,isobvioustodispute.Butwhetherthusthesethings,orwhethernot,WhethertheSunpredominantinHeav’n(160)RiseontheEarth,orEarthriseontheSun,HeefromtheEasthisflamingrodebegin,OrSheefromWesthersilentcourseadvanceWithinoffensivepacethatspinningsleepsOnhersoftAxle,whileshepacesEev’n,AndbearstheesoftwiththesmoothAiralong,Sollicitnotthythoughtswithmattershid,LeavethemtoGodabove,himserveandfeare;OfotherCreatures,ashimpleasesbest,Whereverplac’t,lethimdispose:joythou(170)Inwhathegivestothee,thisParadiseAndthyfaireEve;Heav’nisfortheetoohighToknowwhatpassesthere;belowliewise:Thinkonelywhatconcernestheeandthybeing;DreamnotofotherWorlds,whatCreaturesthereLive,inwhatstate,conditionordegree,Contentedthatthusfarrhathbeenreveal’dNotofEarthonelybutofhighestHeav’n.TowhomthusAdamcleerdofdoubt,repli’d.

Howfullyhastthousatisfi’dmee,pure(180)IntelligenceofHeav’n,Angelserene,Andfreedfromintricacies,taughttoliveTheeasiestway,norwithperplexingthoughtsTointerruptthesweetofLife,fromwhichGodhathbiddwellfarroffallanxiouscares,Andnotmolestus,unlessweourselvesSeekthemwithwandringthoughts,andnotionsvain.ButapttheMindorFancyistoroaveUncheckt,andofherroavingisnoend;Tillwarn’d,orbyexperiencetaught,shelearne,(190)ThatnottoknowatlargeofthingsremoteFromuse,obscureandsuttle,buttoknowThatwhichbeforeusliesindailylife,IstheprimeWisdom,whatismore,isfume,Oremptiness,orfondimpertinence,AndrendersusinthingsthatmostconcerneUnpractis’d,unprepar’d,andstilltoseek.ThereforefromthishighpitchletusdescendAlowerflight,andspeakofthingsathandUseful,whencehaplymentionmayarise(200)OfsomthingnotunseasonabletoaskBysufferance,andthywontedfavourdeign’d.TheeIhaveheardrelatingwhatwasdonEremyremembrance:nowhearmeerelateMyStorie,whichperhapsthouhastnotheard;AndDayisyetnotspent;tillthenthouseestHowsuttlytodetainetheeIdevise,

InvitingtheetohearwhileIrelate,Fond,wereitnotinhopeofthyreply:ForwhileIsitwiththee,IseeminHeav’n,(210)AndsweeterthydiscourseistomyeareThenFruitsofPalm-treepleasantesttothirstAndhungerboth,fromlabour,atthehoureOfsweetrepast;theysatiate,andsoonfill,Thoughpleasant,butthywordswithGraceDivineImbu’d,bringtothirsweetnessnosatietie.TowhomthusRaphaelanswer’dheav’nlymeek.Norarethylipsungraceful,Sireofmen,Nortongueineloquent;forGodontheeAbundantlyhisgiftshathalsopour’d(220)Inwardandoutwardboth,hisimagefaire:SpeakingormuteallcomlinessandgraceAttendsthee,andeachword,eachmotionformes.NorlessthinkweeinHeav’noftheeonEarthThenofourfellowservant,andinquireGladlyintothewayesofGodwithMan:ForGodweseehathhonour’dthee,andsetOnManhisEqualLove:saythereforeon;ForIthatDaywasabsent,asbefell,Boundonavoyageuncouthandobscure,(230)FarronexcursiontowardtheGatesofHell;Squar’dinfullLegion(suchcommandwehad)Toseethatnonethenceissu’dforthaspie,Orenemie,whileGodwasinhiswork,Leastheeincenstatsucheruptionbold,

DestructionwithCreationmighthavemixt.Notthattheydurstwithouthisleaveattempt,ButushesendsuponhishighbehestsForstate,asSovranKing,andtoenureOurpromptobedience.Fastwefound,fastshut(240)ThedismalGates,andbarricado’dstrong;ButlongereourapproachingheardwithinNoise,otherthenthesoundofDanceorSong,Torment,andlowdlament,andfuriousrage.Gladwereturn’duptothecoastsofLightEreSabbathEev’ning:sowehadincharge.Butthyrelationnow;forIattend,Pleas’dwiththywordsnolessthenthouwithmine.SospaketheGodlikePower,andthusourSire.ForMantotellhowhumanLifebegan(250)Ishard;forwhohimselfbeginningknew?DesirewiththeestilllongertoconverseInduc’dme.Asnewwak’tfromsoundestsleepSoftontheflourieherbIfoundmelaidInBalmieSweat,whichwithhisBeamestheSunSoondri’d,andonthereakingmoisturefed.StraittowardHeav’nmywondringEyesIturnd,Andgaz’dawhiletheampleSkie,tillrais’dByquickinstinctivemotionupIsprung,Asthitherwardendevoring,andupright(260)Stoodonmyfeet;aboutmeroundIsawHill,Dale,andshadieWoods,andsunniePlaines,

AndliquidLapseofmurmuringStreams;bythese,Creaturesthatlivd,andmovd,andwalk’d,orflew,Birdsonthebrancheswarbling;allthingssmil’d,Withfragranceandwithjoymyheartoreflow’d.MyselfIthenperus’d,andLimbbyLimbSurvey’d,andsometimeswent,andsometimesranWithsupplejoints,aslivelyvigourled:ButwhoIwas,orwhere,orfromwhatcause,(270)Knewnot;tospeakItri’d,andforthwithspake,MyTongueobey’dandreadilycouldnameWhate’reIsaw.ThouSun,saidI,faireLight,Andthouenlight’ndEarth,sofreshandgay,YeHillsandDales,yeRivers,Woods,andPlaines,Andyethatliveandmove,fairCreatures,tell,Tell,ifyesaw,howcameIthus,howhere?Notofmyself;bysomegreatMakerthen,Ingoodnessandinpowerpræeminent;Tellme,howmayIknowhim,howadore,(280)FromwhomIhavethatthusImoveandlive,AndfeelthatIamhappierthenIknow.WhilethusIcall’d,andstray’dIknewnotwhither,FromwhereIfirstdrewAire,andfirstbeheldThishappieLight,whenanswernonereturn’d,OnagreenshadieBankprofuseofFloursPensiveIsatemedown;theregentlesleepFirstfoundme,andwithsoftoppressionseis’dMydrousedsense,untroubl’d,thoughIthoughtIthenwaspassingtomyformerstate(290)

Insensible,andforthwithtodissolve:WhensuddenlystoodatmyHeadadream,Whoseinwardapparitiongentlymov’dMyFancytobelieveIyethadbeing,Andlivd:Onecame,methought,ofshapeDivine,Andsaid,thyMansionwantsthee,Adam,rise,FirstMan,ofMeninnumerableordain’dFirstFather,call’dbytheeIcomethyGuideTotheGardenofbliss,thyseatprepar’d.Sosaying,bythehandhetookmerais’d,(300)AndoverFieldsandWaters,asinAireSmoothslidingwithoutstep,lastledmeupAwoodieMountain;whosehightopwasplaine,ACircuitwide,enclos’d,withgoodliestTreesPlanted,withWalks,andBowers,thatwhatIsawOfEarthbeforescarcepleasantseemd.EachTreeLoad’nwithfairestFruit,thathungtotheEyeTempting,stirr’dinmesuddenappetiteTopluckandeate;whereatIwak’d,andfoundBeforemineEyesallreal,asthedream(310)Hadlivelyshadowd:HerehadnewbegunMywandring,hadnotheewhowasmyGuideUphither,fromamongtheTreesappeer’d,PresenceDivine.Rejoycing,butwithaw,InadorationathisfeetIfellSubmiss:herear’dme,andWhomthousoughtstIam,Saidmildely,AuthorofallthisthouseestAbove,orroundabouttheeorbeneath.

ThisParadiseIgivethee,countitthineToTillandkeep,andoftheFruittoeate:(320)OfeveryTreethatintheGardengrowesEatefreelywithgladheart;fearherenodearth:ButoftheTreewhoseoperationbringsKnowledgofgoodandill,whichIhavesetThePledgeofthyObedienceandthyFaith,AmidtheGardenbytheTreeofLife,RememberwhatIwarnethee,shuntotaste,Andshunthebitterconsequence:forknow,Thedaythoueat’stthereof,mysolecommandTransgrest,inevitablythoushaltdye;(330)Fromthatdaymortal,andthishappieStateShaltloose,expell’dfromhenceintoaWorldOfwoeandsorrow.Sternlyhepronounc’dTherigidinterdiction,whichresoundsYetdreadfulinmineeare,thoughinmychoiceNottoincur;butsoonhiscleeraspectReturn’dandgratiouspurposethusrenew’d.Notonelythesefairbounds,butalltheEarthTotheeandtothyRaceIgive;asLordsPossessit,andallthingsthatthereinlive,(340)OrliveinSea,orAire,Beast,Fish,andFowle.InsignewhereofeachBirdandBeastbeholdAfterthirkindes;IbringthemtoreceaveFromtheethirNames,andpaytheefealtieWithlowsubjection;understandthesame

OfFishwithinthirwatryresidence,Nothithersummond,sincetheycannotchangeThirElementtodrawthethinnerAire.Asthushespake,eachBirdandBeastbeholdApproachingtwoandtwo,Thesecowringlow(350)Withblandishment,eachBirdstoop’donhiswing.Inam’dthem,astheypass’d,andunderstoodThirNature,withsuchknowledgGodendu’dMysuddenapprehension:butintheseIfoundnotwhatmethoughtIwantedstill;AndtotheHeav’nlyvisionthuspresum’d.ObywhatName,forthouaboveallthese,Abovemankinde,oraughtthenmankindehigher,Surpassestfarrmynaming,howmayIAdorethee,AuthorofthisUniverse,(360)Andallthisgoodtoman,forwhosewellbeingSoamply,andwithhandssoliberalThouhastprovidedallthings:butwithmeeIseenotwhopartakes.InsolitudeWhathappiness,whocanenjoyalone,Orallenjoying,whatcontentmentfind?ThusIpresumptuous;andthevisionbright,Aswithasmilemorebright’nd,thusrepli’d.Whatcall’stthousolitude,isnottheEarthWithvariouslivingcreatures,andtheAire(370)Replenisht,andalltheseatthycommandTocomeandplaybeforethee;know’stthounotThirlanguageandthirwayes,theyalsoknow,

Andreasonnotcontemptibly;withtheseFindpastime,andbearerule;thyRealmislarge.SospaketheUniversalLord,andseem’dSoordering.Iwithleaveofspeechimplor’d,Andhumbledeprecationthusrepli’d.Letnotmywordsoffendthee,Heav’nlyPower,MyMaker,bepropitiouswhileIspeak.(380)Hastthounotmademeherethysubstitute,Andtheseinferiourfarrbeneathmeset?AmongunequalswhatsocietieCansort,whatharmonieortruedelight?Whichmustbemutual,inproportiondueGiv’nandreceiv’d;butindisparitieTheoneintense,theotherstillremissCannotwellsuitewitheither,butsoonproveTediousalike:OffellowshipIspeakSuchasIseek,fittoparticipate(390)Allrationaldelight,whereinthebruteCannotbehumanconsort;theyrejoyceEachwiththirkinde,LionwithLioness;Sofitlytheminpairsthouhastcombin’d;MuchlesscanBirdwithBeast,orFishwithFowleSowellconverse,norwiththeOxtheApe;WorsthencanManwithBeast,andleastofall.Wheretoth’Almightyanswer’d,notdispleas’d.AniceandsuttlehappinessIseeThoutothyselfproposest,inthechoice(400)OfthyAssociates,Adam,andwilttaste

Nopleasure,thoughinpleasure,solitarie.Whatthinkstthouthenofmee,andthismyState,SeemItotheesufficientlypossestOfhappiness,ornot?whoamaloneFromallEternitie,fornoneIknowSecondtomeeorlike,equalmuchless.HowhaveIthenwithwhomtoholdconverseSavewiththeCreatureswhichImade,andthoseTomeinferiour,infinitedescents(410)BeneathwhatotherCreaturesaretothee?Heceas’d,Ilowlyanswer’d.ToattaineThehighthanddepthofthyEternalwayesAllhumanthoughtscomeshort,Supreamofthings;Thouinthyselfartperfet,andintheeIsnodeficiencefound;notsoisMan,Butindegree,thecauseofhisdesireByconversationwithhisliketohelp,Orsolacehisdefects.NoneedthatthouShouldstpropagat,alreadyinfinite;(420)Andthroughallnumbersabsolute,thoughOne;ButManbynumberistomanifestHissingleimperfection,andbegetLikeofhislike,hisImagemultipli’d,Inunitiedefective,whichrequiresCollaterallove,anddeerestamitie.Thouinthysecresiealthoughalone,Bestwiththyselfaccompanied,seek’stnot

Socialcommunication,yetsopleas’d,CanstraisethyCreaturetowhathighththouwilt(430)OfUnionorCommunion,deifi’d;IbyconversingcannottheseerectFromprone,norinthirwayescomplacencefind.ThusIembold’ndspake,andfreedomus’dPermissive,andacceptancefound,whichgain’dThisanswerfromthegratiousvoiceDivine.Thusfarrtotrythee,Adam,Iwaspleas’d,AndfindetheeknowingnotofBeastsalone,Whichthouhastrightlynam’d,butofthyself,Expressingwellthespiritwithintheefree,(440)MyImage,notimpartedtotheBrute,WhosefellowshipthereforeunmeetfortheeGoodreasonwasthoufreelyshouldstdislike,Andbesomindedstill;I,erethouspak’st,KnewitnotgoodforMantobealone,Andnosuchcompanieasthenthousaw’stIntendedthee,fortrialonelybrought,Toseehowthoucould’stjudgeoffitandmeet:WhatnextIbringshallpleasethee,beassur’d,Thylikeness,thyfithelp,thyotherself,(450)Thywish,exactlytothyheartsdesire.Heeended,orIheardnomore,fornowMyearthlybyhisHeav’nlyoverpowerd,Whichithadlongstoodunder,streindtothehighthInthatcelestialColloquiesublime,Aswithanobjectthatexcelsthesense,

Dazl’dandspent,sunkdown,andsoughtrepairOfsleep,whichinstantlyfellonme,call’dByNatureasinaide,andclos’dmineeyes.Mineeyesheclos’d,butop’nlefttheCell(460)OfFanciemyinternalsight,bywhichAbstractasinatransemethoughtIsaw,Thoughsleeping,whereIlay,andsawtheshapeStillgloriousbeforewhomawakeIstood;Whostoopingop’ndmyleftside,andtookFromthenceaRib,withcordialspiritswarme,AndLife-bloodstreamingfresh;widewasthewound,Butsuddenlywithfleshfill’dupandheal’d:TheRibheformdandfashondwithhishands;UnderhisforminghandsaCreaturegrew,(470)Manlike,butdifferentsex,solovlyfaire,ThatwhatseemdfairinalltheWorld,seemdnowMean,orinhersummdup,inhercontaindAndinherlooks,whichfromthattimeinfus’dSweetnessintomyheart,unfeltbefore,AndintoallthingsfromherAireinspir’dThespiritofloveandamorousdelight.Shedisappeerd,andleftmedark,Iwak’dTofindher,orforevertodeploreHerloss,andotherpleasuresallabjure:(480)Whenoutofhope,beholdher,notfarroff,SuchasIsawherinmydream,adorndWithwhatallEarthorHeavencouldbestowTomakeheramiable:Onshecame,

LedbyherHeav’nlyMaker,thoughunseen,Andguidedbyhisvoice,noruninform’dOfnuptialSanctitieandmarriageRites:Gracewasinallhersteps,Heav’ninherEye,Ineverygesturedignitieandlove.Ioverjoydcouldnotforbearaloud.(490)Thisturnhathmadeamends;thouhastfulfill’dThywords,Creatorbounteousandbenigne,Giverofallthingsfaire,butfairestthisOfallthygifts,norenviest.InowseeBoneofmyBone,FleshofmyFlesh,mySelfBeforeme;WomanisherName,ofManExtracted;forthiscauseheshallforgoeFatherandMother,andtohisWifeadhere;AndtheyshallbeoneFlesh,oneHeart,oneSoule.Sheheardmethus,andthoughdivinelybrought,(500)YetInnocenceandVirginModestie,Hervertueandtheconscienceofherworth,Thatwouldbewoo’d,andnotunsoughtbewon,Notobvious,notobtrusive,butretir’d,Themoredesirable,ortosayall,Natureherself,thoughpureofsinfulthought,Wroughtinherso,thatseeingme,sheturn’d;Ifollow’dher,shewhatwasHonourknew,AndwithobsequiousMajestieapprov’dMypleadedreason.TotheNuptialBowre(510)IledherblushingliketheMorn:allHeav’n,

AndhappieConstellationsonthathoureShedthirselectestinfluence;theEarthGavesignofgratulation,andeachHill;JoyoustheBirds;freshGalesandgentleAiresWhisper’dittotheWoods,andfromthirwingsFlungRose,flungOdoursfromthespicieShrub,Disporting,tilltheamorousBirdofNightSungSpousal,andbidhastetheEevningStarrOnhisHilltop,tolightthebridalLamp.(520)ThusIhavetoldtheeallmyState,andbroughtMyStorietothesumofearthlyblissWhichIenjoy,andmustconfesstofindInallthingselsedelightindeed,butsuchAsus’dornot,worksinthemindnochange,Norvehementdesire,thesedelicaciesImeanofTaste,Sight,Smell,Herbs,Fruits,andFlours,Walks,andthemelodieofBirds;buthereFarrotherwise,transportedIbehold,Transportedtouch;herepassionfirstIfelt,(530)Commotionstrange,inallenjoymentselseSuperiourandunmov’d,hereonelyweakeAgainstthecharmofBeautiespowerfulglance.OrNaturefaildinmee,andleftsomepartNotproofenoughsuchObjecttosustain,Orfrommysidesubducting,tookperhapsMorethenenough;atleastonherbestow’dToomuchofOrnament,inoutwardshewElaborate,ofinwardlessexact.

ForwellIunderstandintheprimeend(540)OfNatureherth’inferiour,inthemindAndinwardFaculties,whichmostexcell,InoutwardalsoherresemblinglessHisImagewhomadeboth,andlessexpressingThecharacterofthatDominiongiv’nO’reotherCreatures;yetwhenIapproachHerloveliness,soabsolutesheseemsAndinherselfcompleat,sowelltoknowHerown,thatwhatshewillstodoorsay,Seemswisest,vertuousest,discreetest,best;(550)AllhigherknowledgeinherpresencefallsDegraded,WisdomindiscoursewithherLoosesdiscount’nanc’t,andlikefollyshewes;AuthoritieandReasononherwaite,Asoneintendedfirst,notaftermadeOccasionally;andtoconsummateall,GreatnessofmindandnoblenessthirseatBuildinherloveliest,andcreateanaweAbouther,asaguardAngelicplac’t.TowhomtheAngelwithcontractedbrow.(560)AccusenotNature,shehathdonherpart;Dothoubutthine,andbenotdiffidentOfWisdom,shedesertstheenot,ifthouDismissnother,whenmostthouneedsthernigh,ByattributingovermuchtothingsLessexcellent,asthouthyselfperceav’st.Forwhatadmir’stthou,whattransportstheeso,

Anoutside?fairnodoubt,andworthywellThycherishing,thyhonouring,andthylove,Notthysubjection:weighwithherthyself;(570)Thenvalue:OfttimesnothingprofitsmoreThenselfesteem,groundedonjustandrightWellmanag’d;ofthatskillthemorethouknow’st,ThemoreshewillacknowledgetheeherHead,Andtorealitiesyieldallhershows:Madesoadornforthydelightthemore,Soawful,thatwithhonourthoumaistloveThymate,whoseeswhenthouartseenleastwise.ButifthesenseoftouchwherebymankindIspropagatedseemsuchdeardelight(580)Beyondallother,thinkthesamevoutsaf’tToCattelandeachBeast;whichwouldnotbeTothemmadecommonanddivulg’d,ifaughtThereinenjoy’dwereworthytosubdueTheSouleofMan,orpassioninhimmove.WhathigherinhersocietiethoufindstAttractive,human,rational,lovestill;Inlovingthoudostwell,inpassionnot,WhereintrueLoveconsistsnot;loverefinesThethoughts,andheartenlarges,hathhisseat(590)InReason,andisjudicious,isthescaleBywhichtoheav’nlyLovethoumaistascend,Notsunkincarnalpleasure,forwhichcauseAmongtheBeastsnoMatefortheewasfound.

Towhomthushalfabash’tAdamrepli’d.Neitherherout-sideformdsofair,noraughtInprocreationcommontoallkindes(ThoughhigherofthegenialBedbyfar,AndwithmysteriousreverenceIdeem)Somuchdelightsme,asthosegracefulacts,(600)ThosethousanddecenciesthatdailyflowFromallherwordsandactions,mixtwithLoveAndsweetcompliance,whichdeclareunfeign’dUnionofMind,orinusbothoneSoule;HarmonietobeholdinweddedpairMoregratefulthenharmonioussoundtotheeare.Yetthesesubjectnot;ItotheediscloseWhatinwardthenceIfeel,notthereforefoild,Whomeetwithvariousobjects,fromthesenseVariouslyrepresenting;yetstillfree(610)Approvethebest,andfollowwhatIapprove.Tolovethoublam’stmenot,forlovethousaistLeadsuptoHeav’n,isboththewayandguide;Bearwithmethen,iflawfulwhatIask;Lovenottheheav’nlySpirits,andhowthirLoveExpressthey,bylooksonely,ordotheymixIrradiance,virtualorimmediatetouch?TowhomtheAngelwithasmilethatglow’dCelestialrosiered,Lovesproperhue,Answer’d.Letitsufficetheethatthouknow’st(620)Ushappie,andwithoutLovenohappiness.Whateverpurethouinthebodyenjoy’st

(Andpurethouwertcreated)weenjoyIneminence,andobstaclefindnoneOfmembrane,joynt,orlimb,exclusivebarrs:EasierthenAirwithAir,ifSpiritsembrace,Totaltheymix,UnionofPurewithPureDesiring;norrestrain’dconveyanceneedAsFleshtomixwithFlesh,orSoulwithSoul.ButIcannownomore;thepartingSun(630)BeyondtheEarthsgreenCapeandverdantIslesHespereansets,mySignaltodepart.Bestrong,livehappie,andlove,butfirstofallHimwhomtoloveistoobey,andkeepHisgreatcommand;takeheedlestPassionswayThyJudgmenttodoaught,whichelsefreeWillWouldnotadmit;thineandofallthySonsThewealorwoeintheeisplac’t;beware.Iinthyperseveringshallrejoyce,AndalltheBlest:standfast;tostandorfall(640)FreeinthineownArbitrementitlies.Perfetwithin,nooutwardaidrequire;Andalltemptationtotransgressrepel.Sosaying,hearose;whomAdamthusFollow’dwithbenediction.Sincetopart,GoheavenlyGuest,EtherealMessenger,SentfromwhosesovrangoodnessIadore.GentletomeandaffablehathbeenThycondescension,andshallbehonour’deverWithgratefulMemorie:thoutomankind(650)

Begoodandfriendlystill,andoftreturn.Sopartedthey,theAngeluptoHeav’nFromthethickshade,andAdamtohisBowre.

TheEndoftheEighthBook.

Book IX

TheArgument

Satanhavingcompast theEarth,withmeditatedguilereturnsasamistbyNight intoParadise, enters into theSerpent sleeping.AdamandEvein theMorning go forth to

thirlabours,whichEveproposestodivideinseveralplaces,eachlabouringapart:Adamconsents not, alledging the danger, lest that Enemy, of whom they were forewarn’d,

shouldattemptherfoundalone:Eveloathtobethoughtnotcircumspectorfirmenough,urges her going apart, the rather desirous tomake tryal of her strength;Adamat lastyields:TheSerpentfindsheralone;hissubtleapproach,firstgazing,thenspeaking,with

muchflatteryextollingEveaboveallotherCreatures.EvewondringtoheartheSerpentspeak,askshowheattain’d tohumanspeechandsuchunderstandingnot tillnow; the

Serpent answers, that by tasting of a certain Tree in the Garden he attain’d both to

SpeechandReason,tillthenvoidofboth:EverequireshimtobringhertothatTree,andfinds it to be theTree of Knowledge forbidden:The Serpent now grown bolder, with

many wiles and arguments induces her at length to eat; she pleas’d with the taste

deliberatesawhilewhethertoimpartthereof toAdamornot,atlastbringshimof theFruit, relateswhatperswadedher toeat thereof:Adamatfirstamaz’d,butperceivingher lost, resolves through vehemence of love to perish with her; and extenuating the

trespass, eatsalsoof theFruit:TheEffects thereof in themboth; theyseek tocover thir

nakedness;thenfalltovarianceandaccusationofoneanother.

NomoreoftalkwhereGodorAngelGuest

WithMan,aswithhisFriend,familiarus’dTositindulgent,andwithhimpartakeRuralrepast,permittinghimthewhileVenialdiscourseunblam’d:InowmustchangeThoseNotestoTragic;fouldistrust,andbreachDisloyalonthepartofMan,revolt,Anddisobedience:OnthepartofHeav’nNowalienated,distanceanddistaste,Angerandjustrebuke,andjudgementgiv’n,(10)ThatbroughtintothisWorldaworldofwoe,SinneandhershadowDeath,andMiserieDeathsHarbinger:Sadtask,yetargumentNotlessbutmoreHeroicthenthewrauthOfsternAchillesonhisFoepursu’dThriceFugitiveaboutTroyWall;orrageOfTurnusforLaviniadisespous’d,OrNeptun’sireorJuno’s,thatsolongPerplex’dtheGreekandCytherea’sSon;IfanswerablestyleIcanobtaine(20)OfmyCelestialPatroness,whodeignesHernightlyvisitationunimplor’d,Anddictatestomeslumbring,orinspiresEasiemyunpremeditatedVerse:SincefirstthisSubjectforHeroicSongPleas’dmelongchoosing,andbeginninglate;NotsedulousbyNaturetoinditeWarrs,hithertotheonelyArgumentHeroicdeem’d,chiefmaistrietodissect

Withlongandtedioushavocfabl’dKnights(30)InBattelsfeign’d;thebetterfortitudeOfPatienceandHeroicMartyrdomUnsung;ortodescribeRacesandGames,OrtiltingFurniture,emblazon’dShields,Impresesquaint,CaparisonsandSteeds;BasesandtinselTrappings,gorgiousKnightsAtJoustandTorneament;thenmarshal’dFeastServ’dupinHallwithSewers,andSeneshals;TheskillofArtificeorOfficemean,NotthatwhichjustlygivesHeroicname(40)ToPersonortoPoem.MeeoftheseNorskilldnorstudious,higherArgumentRemaines,sufficientofitselftoraiseThatname,unlessanagetoolate,orcoldClimat,orYearsdampmyintendedwingDeprest,andmuchtheymay,ifallbemine,NotHerswhobringsitnightlytomyEar.TheSunwassunk,andafterhimtheStarrOfHesperus,whoseOfficeistobringTwilightupontheEarth,shortArbiter(50)TwixtDayandNight,andnowfromendtoendNightsHemispherehadveildtheHorizonround:WhenSatanwholatefledbeforethethreatsOfGabrieloutofEden,nowimprov’dInmeditatedfraudandmalice,bentOnmansdestruction,maugrewhatmighthapOfheavieronhimself,fearlessreturn’d.

ByNighthefled,andatMidnightreturn’d.FromcompassingtheEarth,cautiousofday,SinceUrielRegentoftheSundescri’d(60)Hisentrance,andforewarndtheCherubimThatkeptthirwatch;thencefullofanguishdriv’n,Thespaceofsevencontinu’dNightsherodeWithdarkness,thricetheEquinoctialLineHecircl’d,fourtimescross’dtheCarrofNightFromPoletoPole,traversingeachColure;Ontheeighthreturn’d,andontheCoastaverseFromentranceorCherubicWatch,bystealthFoundunsuspectedway.Therewasaplace,Nownot,thoughSin,notTime,firstwraughtthechange,(70)WhereTigrisatthefootofParadiseIntoaGulfshotunderground,tillpartRoseupaFountainbytheTreeofLife;InwiththeRiversunk,andwithitroseSataninvolv’dinrisingMist,thensoughtWheretoliehid;SeahehadsearchtandLandFromEdenoverPontus,andthePooleMæotis,upbeyondtheRiverOb;DownwardasfarrAntartic;andinlengthWestfromOrontestotheOceanbarr’d(80)AtDarien,thencetotheLandwhereflowesGangesandIndus:thustheOrbheroam’dWithnarrowsearch;andwithinspectiondeepConsider’deveryCreature,whichofall

MostopportunemightservehisWiles,andfoundTheSerpentsuttlestBeastofalltheField.Himafterlongdebate,irresoluteOfthoughtsrevolv’d,hisfinalsentencechoseFitVessel,fittestImpoffraud,inwhomToenter,andhisdarksuggestionshide(90)Fromsharpestsight:forinthewilieSnake,Whateversleightsnonewouldsuspiciousmark,AsfromhiswitandnativesuttletieProceeding,whichinotherBeastsobserv’dDoubtmightbegetofDiabolicpow’rActivewithinbeyondthesenseofbrute.Thusheresolv’d,butfirstfrominwardgriefeHisburstingpassionintoplaintsthuspour’d:OEarth,howliketoHeav’n,ifnotpreferr’dMorejustly,SeatworthierofGods,asbuilt(100)Withsecondthoughts,reformingwhatwasold!ForwhatGodafterbetterworsewouldbuild?TerrestrialHeav’n,danc’troundbyotherHeav’nsThatshine,yetbearthirbrightofficiousLamps,LightaboveLight,fortheealone,asseems,IntheeconcentringallthirpreciousbeamsOfsacredinfluence:AsGodinHeav’nIsCenter,yetextendstoall,sothouCentringreceav’stfromallthoseOrbs;inthee,Notinthemselves,allthirknownvertueappeers(110)ProductiveinHerb,Plant,andnoblerbirthOfCreaturesanimatewithgraduallife

OfGrowth,Sense,Reason,allsumm’dupinMan.WithwhatdelightcouldIhavewalkttheeround,IfIcouldjoyinaught,sweetinterchangeOfHillandVallie,Rivers,WoodsandPlaines,NowLand,nowSea,andShoreswithForrestcrownd,Rocks,Dens,andCaves;butIinnoneoftheseFindplaceorrefuge;andthemoreIseePleasuresaboutme,somuchmoreIfeel(120)Tormentwithinme,asfromthehatefulsiegeOfcontraries;allgoodtomebecomesBane,andinHeav’nmuchworsewouldbemystate.ButneitherhereseekI,nonorinHeav’nTodwell,unlessbymaistringHeav’nsSupreame;NorhopetobemyselflessmiserableBywhatIseek,butotherstomakesuchAsI,thoughtherebyworsetomeredound:ForonelyindestroyingIfindeeaseTomyrelentlessthoughts;andhimdestroyd,(130)Orwontowhatmayworkhisutterloss,Forwhomallthiswasmade,allthiswillsoonFollow,astohimlinktinwealorwoe,Inwothen:thatdestructionwidemayrange:TomeeshallbethegloriesoleamongTheinfernalPowers,inonedaytohavemarr’dWhatheAlmightiestyl’d,sixNightsandDaysContinu’dmaking,andwhoknowshowlongBeforehadbincontriving,thoughperhapsNotlongerthensinceIinoneNightfreed(140)

FromservitudeingloriouswelnighhalfTh’AngelicName,andthinnerleftthethrongOfhisadorers:heetobeaveng’d,Andtorepairehisnumbersthusimpair’d,WhethersuchvertuespentofoldnowfaildMoreAngelstoCreate,iftheyatleastArehisCreated,ortospiteusmore,Determin’dtoadvanceintoourroomACreatureform’dofEarth,andhimendow,Exaltedfromsobaseoriginal,(150)WithHeav’nlyspoils,ourspoils:WhathedecreedHeeffected;Manhemade,andforhimbuiltMagnificentthisWorld,andEarthhisseat,HimLordpronounc’d,and,Oindignitie!SubjectedtohisserviceAngelwings,AndflamingMinisterstowatchandtendThirearthieCharge:OfthesethevigilanceIdread,andtoelude,thuswraptinmistOfmidnightvaporglideobscure,andprieIneveryBushandBrake,wherehapmayfinde(160)TheSerpentsleeping,inwhosemaziefouldsTohideme,andthedarkintentIbring.Ofouldescent!thatIwhoerstcontendedWithGodstositthehighest,amnowconstraindIntoaBeast,andmixtwithbestialslime,Thisessencetoincarnateandimbrute,ThattothehightofDeitieaspir’d;

ButwhatwillnotAmbitionandRevengeDescendto?whoaspiresmustdownaslowAshighhesoard,obnoxiousfirstorlast(170)Tobasestthings.Revenge,atfirstthoughsweet,Bittererelongbackonitselfrecoiles;Letit;Irecknot,soitlightwellaim’d,SincehigherIfallshort,onhimwhonextProvokesmyenvie,thisnewFavoriteOfHeav’n,thisManofClay,Sonofdespite,WhomusthemoretospitehisMakerrais’dFromdust:spitethenwithspiteisbestrepaid.Sosaying,througheachThicketDanckorDrie,Likeablackmistlowcreeping,heheldon(180)Hismidnightsearch,wheresoonesthemightfindeTheSerpent:himfastsleepingsoonhefoundInLabyrinthofmanyaroundself-rowld,Hisheadthemidst,wellstor’dwithsuttlewiles:NotyetinhorridShadeordismalDen,Nornocentyet,butonthegrassieHerbeFearlessunfeardheslept:inathisMouthTheDevilenterd,andhisbrutalsense,Inheartorhead,possessingsooninspir’dWithactintelligential;buthissleep(190)Disturbdnot,waitingcloseth’approachofMorn.NowwhenassacredLightbegantodawneInEdenonthehumidFlours,thatbreathdThirmorningincense,whenallthingsthatbreath,Fromth’EarthsgreatAltarsendupsilentpraise

TotheCreator,andhisNostrilsfillWithgratefullSmell,forthcamethehumanpairAndjoyndthirvocalWorshiptotheQuireOfCreatureswantingvoice,thatdone,partakeTheseason,primeforsweetestSentsandAires:(200)ThencommunehowthatdaytheybestmayplyThirgrowingwork:formuchthirworkoutgrewThehandsdispatchoftwoGardningsowide.AndEvefirsttoherHusbandthusbegan.Adam,wellmaywelabourstilltodressThisGarden,stilltotendPlant,HerbandFlour.Ourpleasanttaskenjoyn’d,buttillmorehandsAidus,theworkunderourlabourgrows,Luxuriousbyrestraint;whatwebydayLopovergrown,orprune,orprop,orbind,(210)OnenightortwowithwantongrowthderidesTendingtowilde.ThouthereforenowadviseOrhearwhattomymindefirstthoughtspresent,Letusdivideourlabours,thouwherechoiceLeadsthee,orwheremostneeds,whethertowindTheWoodbineroundthisArbour,ordirectTheclaspingIviewheretoclimb,whileIInyonderSpringofRosesintermixtWithMyrtle,findwhattoredresstillNoon:Forwhilesoneareachotherthusallday(220)Ourtaskwechoose,whatwonderifsonearLooksinterveneandsmiles,orobjectnewCasualdiscoursedrawon,whichintermits

Ourdayesworkbroughttolittle,thoughbegunEarly,andth’hourofSuppercomesunearn’d.TowhommildanswerAdamthusreturn’d.SoleEve,Associatesole,tomebeyondCompareabovealllivingCreaturesdeare,Wellhastthoumotion’d,welthythoughtsimploydHowwemightbestfulfilltheworkwhichhere(230)Godhathassign’dus,norofmeshaltpassUnprais’d:fornothingloveliercanbefoundInwoman,thentostudiehousholdgood,AndgoodworkesinherHusbandtopromote.YetnotsostrictlyhathourLordimpos’dLabour,astodebarruswhenweneedRefreshment,whetherfood,ortalkbetween,Foodofthemind,orthissweetintercourseOflooksandsmiles,forsmilesfromReasonflow,Tobrutedeni’d,andareofLovethefood,(240)Lovenotthelowestendofhumanlife.Fornottoirksomtoile,buttodelightHemadeus,anddelighttoReasonjoyn’d.ThesepathsandBowersdoubtnotbutourjoynthandsWillkeepfromWildernesswithease,aswideAsweneedwalk,tillyoungerhandserelongAssistus:ButifmuchconverseperhapsTheesatiate,toshortabsenceIcouldyield.Forsolitudesomtimesisbestsocietie,Andshortretirementurgessweetreturne.(250)

Butotherdoubtpossessesme,leastharmBefalltheesever’dfromme;forthouknowstWhathathbinwarn’dus,whatmaliciousFoeEnvyingourhappiness,andofhisownDespairing,seekstoworkuswoeandshameByslyassault;andsomwherenighathandWatches,nodoubt,withgreedyhopetofindHiswishandbestadvantage,usasunder,Hopelesstocircumventusjoynd,whereeachTootherspeedieaidemightlendatneed;(260)WhetherhisfirstdesignbetowithdrawOurfealtiefromGod,ortodisturbConjugalLove,thenwhichperhapsnoblissEnjoy’dbyusexciteshisenviemore;Orthis,orworse,leavenotthefaithfulsideThatgavetheebeing,stillshadestheeandprotects.TheWife,wheredangerordishonourlurks,SafestandseemliestbyherHusbandstaies,Whoguardsher,orwithhertheworstendures.TowhomtheVirginMajestieofEve,(270)Asonewholoves,andsomeunkindnessmeets,Withsweetausteercomposurethusreply’d,OfspringofHeav’nandEarth,andallEarthsLord,ThatsuchanEnemiewehave,whoseeksOurruin,bothbytheeinformdIlearne,AndfromthepartingAngelover-heardAsinashadienookIstoodbehind,JustthenreturndatshutofEveningFlours.

ButthatthoushouldstmyfirmnesstherforedoubtToGodorthee,becausewehaveafoe(280)Maytemptit,Iexpectednottohear.Hisviolencethoufearstnot,beingsuch,Aswee,notcapableofdeathorpaine,Caneithernotreceave,orcanrepell.Hisfraudisthenthyfear,whichplaininferrsThyequalfearthatmyfirmFaithandLoveCanbyhisfraudbeshak’norseduc’t;Thoughts,whichhowfoundtheyharbourinthybrestAdam,misthoughtofhertotheesodear?TowhomwithhealingwordsAdamreply’d.(290)DaughterofGodandMan,immortalEve,Forsuchthouart,fromsinandblameentire:NotdiffidentoftheedoIdissuadeThyabsencefrommysight,buttoavoidTh’attemptitself,intendedbyourFoe.Forheewhotempts,thoughinvain,atleastaspersesThetemptedwithdishonourfoul,suppos’dNotincorruptibleofFaith,notprooffAgainsttemptation:thouthyselfwithscorneAndangerwouldstresenttheoffer’dwrong,(300)Thoughineffectualfound:misdeemnotthen,IfsuchaffrontIlabourtoavertFromtheealone,whichonusbothatonceTheEnemie,thoughbold,willhardlydare,Ordaring,firstonmeeth’assaultshalllight.Northouhismaliceandfalseguilecontemn;

Suttleheneedsmustbe,whocouldseduceAngels,northinksuperfluousothersaid.IfromtheinfluenceofthylooksreceaveAccessineveryVertue,inthysight(310)Morewise,morewatchful,stronger,ifneedwereOfoutwardstrength;whileshame,thoulookingon,Shametobeovercomeorover-reachtWouldutmostvigorraise,andrais’dunite.WhyshouldstnotthoulikesensewithintheefeelWhenIampresent,andthytrialchooseWithme,bestwitnessofthyVertuetri’d.SospakedomestickAdaminhiscareAndMatrimonialLove;butEve,whothoughtLessattributedtoherFaithsincere,(320)Thusherreplywithaccentsweetrenewd.Ifthisbeourcondition,thustodwellInnarrowcircuitstrait’ndbyaFoe,Suttleorviolent,wenotendu’dSinglewithlikedefence,wherevermet,Howarewehappie,stillinfearofharm?Butharmprecedesnotsin:onelyourFoeTemptingaffrontsuswithhisfoulesteemOfourintegritie:hisfoulesteemeSticksnodishonoronourFront,butturns(330)Foulonhimself;thenwherforeshundorfeardByus?whoratherdoublehonourgaineFromhissurmiseprov’dfalse,findepeacewithin,

FavourfromHeav’n,ourwitnessfromth’event.AndwhatisFaith,Love,VertueunassaidAlone,withoutexteriorhelpsustaind?LetusnotthensuspectourhappieStateLeftsoimperfetbytheMakerwise,Asnotsecuretosingleorcombin’d.Fraileisourhappiness,ifthisbeso,(340)AndEdenwerenoEdenthusexpos’d.TowhomthusAdamferventlyrepli’d.OWoman,bestareallthingsasthewillOfGodordaindthem,hiscreatinghandNothingimperfetordeficientleftOfallthatheCreated,muchlessMan,OraughtthatmighthishappieStatesecure,Securefromoutwardforce;withinhimselfThedangerlies,yetlieswithinhispower:Againsthiswillhecanreceavenoharme.(350)ButGodleftfreetheWill,forwhatobeyesReason,isfree,andReasonhemaderightButbidherwellbeware,andstillerect,Leastbysomefaireappeeringgoodsurpris’dShedictatefalse,andmissinformetheWillTodowhatGodexpreslyhathforbid.Notthenmistrust,buttenderloveenjoynes,ThatIshouldmindtheeoft,andmindthoume.Firmwesubsist,yetpossibletoswerve,SinceReasonnotimpossiblymaymeet(360)SomespeciousobjectbytheFoesubornd,

Andfallintodeceptionunaware,Notkeepingstrictestwatch,asshewaswarnd.Seeknottemptationthen,whichtoavoideWerebetter,andmostlikelieiffrommeeThousevernot:Trialwillcomeunsought.Wouldstthouapprovethyconstancie,approveFirstthyobedience;th’otherwhocanknow,Notseeingtheeattempted,whoattest?Butifthouthink,trialunsoughtmayfinde(370)Usbothsecurerthenthuswarndthouseemst,Go;forthystay,notfree,absentstheemore;Gointhynativeinnocence,relieOnwhatthouhastofvertue,summonall,ForGodtowardstheehathdonehispart,dothine.SospakethePatriarchofMankinde,butEvePersisted,yetsubmiss,thoughlast,repli’d.Withthypermissionthen,andthusforewarndChieflybywhatthyownlastreasoningwordsTouchdonely,thatourtrial,whenleastsought,(380)Mayfindeusbothperhapsfarrlessprepar’d,ThewillingerIgoe,normuchexpectAFoesoproudwillfirsttheweakerseek,Sobent,themoreshallshamehimhisrepulse.Thussaying,fromherHusbandshandherhandSoftshewithdrew,andlikeaWood-NymphlightOreadorDryad,orofDelia’sTraine,BetookhertotheGroves,butDelia’sselfIngatesurpass’dandGoddess-likedeport,

ThoughnotassheewithBowandQuiverarmd,(390)ButwithsuchGardningToolsasArtyetrude,Guiltlessoffirehadformd,orAngelsbrought.ToPales,orPomona,thusadornd,Likestsheseemd,PomonawhenshefledVertumnus,ortoCeresinherPrime,YetVirginofProserpinafromJove.HerlongwithardentlookhisEyepursu’dDelighted,butdesiringmoreherstay.OfthetoherhischargeofquickreturneRepeated,sheetohimasoftengag’d(400)TobereturndbyNoonamidtheBowre,AndallthingsinbestordertoinviteNoontiderepast,orAfternoonsrepose.Omuchdeceav’d,muchfailing,haplessEve,Ofthypresum’dreturn!eventperverse!ThouneverfromthathoureinParadiseFoundsteithersweetrepast,orsoundrepose;SuchambushhidamongsweetFloursandShadesWaitedwithhellishrancourimminentTointerceptthyway,orsendtheeback(410)DespoildofInnocence,ofFaith,ofBliss.Fornow,andsincefirstbreakofdawnetheFiend,MeerSerpentinappearance,forthwascome,AndonhisQuest,wherelikeliesthemightfindeTheonelytwoofMankinde,butinthemThewholeincludedRace,hispurposdprey.

InBowreandFieldhesought,whereanytuftOfGroveorGarden-Plotmorepleasantlay,ThirtendanceorPlantationfordelight,ByFountainorbyshadieRivulet(420)Hesoughtthemboth,butwish’dhishapmightfindEveseparate,hewish’d,butnotwithhopeOfwhatsoseldomchanc’d,whentohiswish,Beyondhishope,Eveseparatehespies,Veil’dinaCloudofFragrance,whereshestood,Halfspi’d,sothicktheRosesbushingroundAboutherglowd,oftstoopingtosupportEachFlourofslenderstalk,whoseheadthoughgayCarnation,Purple,Azure,orspectwithGold,Hungdroopingunsustaind,themsheupstaies(430)GentlywithMirtleband,mindlessthewhile,Herself,thoughfairestunsupportedFlour,Fromherbestpropsofarr,andstormsonigh.Neererhedrew,andmanyawalktravers’dOfstateliestCovert,Cedar,Pine,orPalme,Thenvolubleandbold,nowhid,nowseenAmongthick-wov’nArboretsandFloursImborderdoneachBank,thehandofEve:SpotmoredeliciousthenthoseGardensfeign’dOrofreviv’dAdonis,orrenownd(440)Alcinous,hostofoldLaertesSon,Orthat,notMystic,wheretheSapientKingHelddalliancewithhisfairEgyptianSpouse.MuchheethePlaceadmir’d,thePersonmore.

AsonewholonginpopulousCitypent,WhereHousesthickandSewersannoytheAire,ForthissuingonaSummersMorntobreatheAmongthepleasantVillagesandFarmesAdjoynd,fromeachthingmetconceavesdelight,ThesmellofGrain,orteddedGrass,orKine,(450)OrDairie,eachruralsight,eachruralsound;IfchancewithNymphlikestepfairVirginpass,Whatpleasingseemd,forhernowpleasesmore,Shemost,andinherlooksummsallDelight.SuchPleasuretooktheSerpenttobeholdThisFlouriePlat,thesweetrecessofEveThusearlie,thusalone;herHeav’nlyformeAngelic,butmoresoft,andFeminine,HergracefulInnocence,hereveryAireOfgestureorlestactionoverawd(460)HisMalice,andwithrapinesweetbereav’dHisfiercenessofthefierceintentitbrought:ThatspacetheEviloneabstractedstoodFromhisownevil,andforthetimeremaindStupidlygood,ofenmitiedisarm’d,Ofguile,ofhate,ofenvie,ofrevenge;ButthehotHellthatalwayesinhimburnes,ThoughinmidHeav’n,soonendedhisdelight,Andtortureshimnowmore,themoreheseesOfpleasurenotforhimordain’d:thensoon(470)Fiercehateherecollects,andallhisthoughtsOfmischief,gratulating,thusexcites.

Thoughts,whitherhaveyeledme,withwhatsweetCompulsionthustransportedtoforgetWhathitherbroughtus,hate,notlove,norhopeOfParadiseforHell,hopeheretotasteOfpleasure,butallpleasuretodestroy,Savewhatisindestroying,otherjoyTomeislost.ThenletmenotletpassOccasionwhichnowsmiles,beholdalone(480)TheWoman,opportunetoallattempts,HerHusband,forIviewfarround,notnigh,WhosehigherintellectualmoreIshun,Andstrength,ofcouragehautie,andoflimbHeroicbuilt,thoughofterrestrialmould,Foenotinformidable,exemptfromwound,Inot;somuchhathHelldebas’d,andpaineInfeebl’dme,towhatIwasinHeav’n.Sheefair,divinelyfair,fitLoveforGods,Notterrible,thoughterrourbeinLove(490)Andbeautie,notapproachtbystrongerhate,Hatestronger,undershewofLovewellfeign’d,ThewaywhichtoherruinnowItend.SospaketheEnemieofMankind,enclos’dInSerpent,Inmatebad,andtowardEveAddress’dhisway,notwithindentedwave,Proneontheground,assince,butonhisreare,Circularbaseofrisingfoulds,thattour’dFouldabovefouldasurgingMaze,hisHead

Crestedaloft,andCarbunclehisEyes;(500)WithburnishtNeckofverdantGold,erectAmidsthiscirclingSpires,thatonthegrassFlotedredundant:pleasingwashisshape,Andlovely,neversinceofSerpentkindLovelier,notthosethatinIllyriachang’dHermioneandCadmus,ortheGodInEpidaurus;nortowhichtransformdAmmonianJove,orCapitolinewasseen,HeewithOlympias,thiswithherwhoboreScipiothehighthofRome.Withtractoblique(510)Atfirst,asonewhosoughtaccess,butfeardTointerrupt,side-longheworkshisway.AswhenaShipbyskilfulStearsmanwroughtNighRiversmouthorForeland,wheretheWindVeresoft,asoftsosteers,andshiftsherSaile;Sovariedhee,andofhistortuousTraineCurldmanyawantonwreathinsightofEve,TolureherEye;sheebusiedheardthesoundOfruslingLeaves,butmindednot,asus’dTosuchdisportbeforeherthroughtheField,(520)FromeveryBeast,moreduteousathercall,ThenatCirceancalltheHerddisguis’d.Heebouldernow,uncall’dbeforeherstood;Butasingazeadmiring:OfthebowdHisturretCrest,andsleekenamel’dNeck,Fawning,andlick’dthegroundwhereonshetrod.Hisgentledumbexpressionturn’datlength

TheEyeofEvetomarkhisplay;hegladOfherattentiongaind,withSerpentTongueOrganic,orimpulseofvocalAir,(530)Hisfraudulenttemptationthusbegan.Wondernot,sovranMistress,ifperhapsThoucanst,whoartsoleWonder,muchlessarmThylooks,theHeav’nofmildness,withdisdain,Displeas’dthatIapproachtheethus,andgazeInsatiate,Ithussingle,norhavefeardThyawfulbrow,moreawfulthusretir’d.FairestresemblanceofthyMakerfaire,Theeallthingslivinggazeon,allthingsthineBygift,andthyCelestialBeautieadore(540)Withravishmentbeheld,therebestbeheldWhereuniversallyadmir’d;buthereInthisenclosurewild,theseBeastsamong,Beholdersrude,andshallowtodiscerneHalfwhatintheeisfair,onemanexcept,Whoseesthee?(andwhatisone?)whoshouldstbeseenAGoddessamongGods,ador’dandserv’dByAngelsnumberless,thydailyTrain.Sogloz’dtheTempter,andhisProemtun’d;IntotheHeartofEvehiswordsmadeway,(550)Thoughatthevoicemuchmarveling;atlengthNotunamaz’dshethusinanswerspake.Whatmaythismean?LanguageofManpronounc’tByTongueofBrute,andhumansenseexprest?ThefirstatlestoftheseIthoughtdeni’d

ToBeasts,whomGodonthirCreation-DayCreatedmutetoallarticulatsound;ThelatterIdemurre,forinthirlooksMuchreason,andinthiractionsoftappeers.Thee,Serpent,suttlestbeastofallthefield(560)Iknew,butnotwithhumanvoiceendu’d;Redoublethenthismiracle,andsay,Howcam’stthouspeakableofmute,andhowTomesofriendlygrownabovetherestOfbrutalkind,thatdailyareinsight?Say,forsuchwonderclaimsattentiondue.TowhomtheguilefulTempterthusreply’d.EmpressofthisfairWorld,resplendentEve,EasietomeeitistotelltheeallWhatthoucommandst,andrightthoushouldstbeobeyd:(570)IwasatfirstasotherBeaststhatgrazeThetroddenHerb,ofabjectthoughtsandlow,Aswasmyfood,noraughtbutfooddiscern’dOrSex,andapprehendednothinghigh:Tillonadayroavingthefield,Ichanc’dAgoodlyTreefarrdistanttobeholdLoadenwithfruitoffairestcoloursmixt,RuddieandGold:Inearerdrewtogaze;Whenfromtheboughesasavorieodourblow’n,Gratefultoappetite,morepleas’dmysense,(580)ThensmellofsweetestFenelortheTeatsOfEweorGoatdroppingwithMilkatEevn,

UnsucktofLamborKid,thattendthirplay.TosatisfiethesharpdesireIhadOftastingthosefairApples,Iresolv’dNottodeferr;hungerandthirstatonce,Powerfulperswaders,quick’ndatthescentOfthatalluringfruit,urg’dmesokeene.AbouttheMossieTrunkIwoundmesoon,Forhighfromgroundthebrancheswouldrequire(590)ThyutmostreachorAdams:RoundtheTreeAllotherBeaststhatsaw,withlikedesireLongingandenvyingstood,butcouldnotreach.AmidtheTreenowgot,whereplentiehungTemptingsonigh,topluckandeatmyfillIspar’dnot,forsuchpleasuretillthathourAtFeedorFountainneverhadIfound.Satedatlength,erelongImightperceaveStrangealterationinme,todegreeOfReasoninmyinwardPowers,andSpeech(600)Wantednotlong,thoughtothisshaperetaind.ThenceforthtoSpeculationshighordeepIturndmythoughts,andwithcapaciousmindConsiderdallthingsvisibleinHeav’n,OrEarth,orMiddle,allthingsfairandgood;ButallthatfairandgoodinthyDivineSemblance,andinthyBeautiesheav’nlyRayUnitedIbeheld;noFairtothineEquivalentorsecond,whichcompel’dMeethus,thoughimportuneperhaps,tocome(610)

Andgaze,andworshiptheeofrightdeclar’dSovranofCreatures,universalDame.Sotalk’dthespiritedslySnake;andEveYetmoreamaz’dunwariethusreply’d.Serpent,thyoverpraisingleavesindoubtThevertueofthatFruit,intheefirstprov’d:Butsay,wheregrowstheTree,fromhencehowfar?FormanyaretheTreesofGodthatgrowInParadise,andvarious,yetunknownTous,insuchabundanceliesourchoice,(620)AsleavesagreaterstoreofFruituntoucht,Stillhangingincorruptible,tillmenGrowuptothirprovision,andmorehandsHelptodisburdenNatureofherBearth.TowhomthewilieAdder,blitheandglad.Empress,thewayisreadie,andnotlong,BeyondarowofMyrtles,onaFlat,FastbyaFountain,onesmallThicketpastOfblowingMyrrhandBalme;ifthouacceptMyconduct,Icanbringtheethithersoon.(630)Leadthen,saidEve.HeeleadingswiftlyrowldIntangles,andmadeintricateseemstrait,Tomischiefswift.Hopeelevates,andjoyBright’nshisCrest,aswhenawandringFireCompactofunctuousvapor,whichtheNightCondenses,andthecoldinvironsround,Kindl’dthroughagitationtoaFlame,Whichoft,theysay,someevilSpiritattends

HoveringandblazingwithdelusiveLight,Misleadsth’amaz’dNight-wandererfromhisway(640)ToBoggsandMires,andoftthroughPondorPoole,Thereswallow’dupandlost,fromsuccourfarr.Soglister’dthedireSnake,andintofraudLedEveourcredulousMother,totheTreeOfprohibition,rootofallourwoe;Whichwhenshesaw,thustoherguideshespake.Serpent,wemighthavespar’dourcominghither,Fruitlesstomee,thoughFruitbeheretoexcess,Thecreditofwhosevertuerestwiththee,Wondrousindeed,ifcauseofsucheffects.(650)ButofthisTreewemaynottastenortouch;Godsocommanded,andleftthatCommandSoleDaughterofhisvoice;therest,weliveLawtoourselves,ourReasonisourLaw.TowhomtheTempterguilefullyrepli’d.Indeed?hathGodthensaidthatoftheFruitOfalltheseGardenTreesyeshallnoteate,YetLordsdeclar’dofallinEarthorAire?TowhomthusEveyetsinless.OftheFruitOfeachTreeintheGardenwemayeate,(660)ButoftheFruitofthisfairTreeamidstTheGarden,Godhathsaid,YeshallnoteateThereof,norshallyetouchit,leastyedie.Shescarsehadsaid,thoughbrief,whennowmoreboldTheTempter,butwithshewofZealeandLove

ToMan,andindignationathiswrong,Newpartputson,andastopassionmov’d,Fluctuatsdisturbd,yetcomely,andinactRais’d,asofsomgreatmattertobegin.AswhenofoldsomOratorrenound(670)InAthensorfreeRome,whereEloquenceFlourishd,sincemute,tosomgreatcauseaddrest,Stoodinhimselfcollected,whileeachpart,Motion,eachactwonaudienceerethetongue,Somtimesinhighthbegan,asnodelayOfPrefacebrookingthroughhisZealofRight.Sostanding,moving,ortohighthupgrownTheTempterallimpassiondthusbegan.OSacred,Wise,andWisdom-givingPlant,MotherofScience,NowIfeelthyPower(680)Withinmecleere,notonelytodiscerneThingsinthirCauses,buttotracethewayesOfhighestAgents,deemdhoweverwise.QueenofthisUniverse,doenotbelieveThoserigidthreatsofDeath;yeshallnotDie:Howshouldye?bytheFruit?itgivesyouLifeToKnowledge?BytheThreatner,lookonmee,Meewhohavetouch’dandtasted,yetbothlive,AndlifemoreperfethaveattaindthenFateMeantmee,byventringhigherthenmyLot.(690)ShallthatbeshuttoMan,whichtotheBeastIsopen?orwillGodincensehisireForsuchapettyTrespass,andnotpraise

Ratheryourdauntlessvertue,whomthepainOfDeathdenounc’t,whateverthingDeathbe,DeterrdnotfromatchievingwhatmightleadeTohappierlife,knowledgeofGoodandEvil;Ofgood,howjust?ofevil,ifwhatisevilBereal,whynotknown,sinceeasiershunnd?Godthereforecannothurtye,andbejust;(700)Notjust,notGod;notfeardthen,norobeid:YourfeareitselfofDeathremovesthefeare.Whythenwasthisforbid?Whybuttoawe,Whybuttokeepyelowandignorant,Hisworshippers;heknowsthatinthedayYeEatethereof,yourEyesthatseemsocleere,Yetarebutdim,shallperfetlybethenOp’ndandcleerd,andyeshallbeasGods,KnowingbothGoodandEvilastheyknow.ThatyeshouldbeasGods,sinceIasMan,(710)InternalMan,isbutproportionmeet,Iofbrutehuman,yeeofhumanGods.Soyeshalldieperhaps,byputtingoffHuman,toputonGods,deathtobewisht,Thoughthreat’nd,whichnoworsethenthiscanbring.AndwhatareGodsthatManmaynotbecomeAsthey,participatingGod-likefood?TheGodsarefirst,andthatadvantageuseOnourbelief,thatallfromthemproceeds;Iquestionit,forthisfairEarthIsee,(720)Warm’dbytheSun,producingeverykind,

Themnothing:Iftheyallthings,whoenclos’dKnowledgeofGoodandEvilinthisTree,Thatwhosoeatsthereof,forthwithattainsWisdomwithouttheirleave?andwhereinliesTh’offence,thatManshouldthusattaintoknow?Whatcanyourknowledgehurthim,orthisTreeImpartagainsthiswillifallbehis?Orisitenvie,andcanenviedwellInHeav’nlybrests?these,theseandmanymore(730)CausesimportyourneedofthisfairFruit.Goddesshumane,reachthen,andfreelytaste.Heended,andhiswordsrepletewithguileIntoherhearttooeasieentrancewon:FixtontheFruitshegaz’d,whichtobeholdMighttemptalone,andinherearsthesoundYetrungofhisperswasivewords,impregn’dWithReason,toherseeming,andwithTruth;MeanwhilethehourofNoondrewon,andwak’dAneagerappetite,rais’dbythesmell(740)SosavorieofthatFruit,whichwithdesire,Inclinablenowgrowntotouchortaste,Sollicitedherlongingeye;yetfirstPausingawhile,thustoherselfshemus’d.GreatarethyVertues,doubtless,bestofFruits,ThoughkeptfromMan,andworthytobeadmir’d,Whosetaste,toolongforborn,atfirstassayGaveelocutiontothemute,andtaught

TheTonguenotmadeforSpeechtospeakthypraise:Thypraiseheealsowhoforbidsthyuse,(750)Concealesnotfromus,namingtheetheTreeOfKnowledge,knowledgebothofgoodandevil;Forbidsusthentotaste,buthisforbiddingCommendstheemore,whileitinferrsthegoodBytheecommunicated,andourwant:Forgoodunknown,sureisnothad,orhadAndyetunknown,isasnothadatall.Inplainthen,whatforbidshebuttoknow,Forbidsusgood,forbidsustobewise?Suchprohibitionsbindenot.ButifDeath(760)Binduswithafter-bands,whatprofitsthenOurinwardfreedom?InthedayweeateOfthisfairFruit,ourdoomis,weshalldie.HowdiestheSerpent?heehatheat’nandlives,Andknows,andspeaks,andreasons,anddiscernes,Irrationaltillthen.ForusaloneWasdeathinvented?ortousdeni’dThisintellectualfood,forbeastsreserv’d?ForBeastsitseems:yetthatoneBeastwhichfirstHathtasted,enviesnot,butbringswithjoy(770)Thegoodbefall’nhim,Authorunsuspect,Friendlytoman,farrfromdeceitorguile.WhatfearIthen,ratherwhatknowtofeareUnderthisignoranceofGoodandEvil,OfGodorDeath,ofLaworPenaltie?HeregrowstheCureofall,thisFruitDivine,

FairtotheEye,invitingtotheTaste,Ofvertuetomakewise:whathindersthenToreach,andfeedatoncebothBodieandMind?Sosaying,herrashhandinevilhour(780)ForthreachingtotheFruit,shepluck’d,sheeat:Earthfeltthewound,andNaturefromherseatSighingthroughallherWorksgavesignsofwoe,Thatallwaslost.BacktotheThicketslunkTheguiltieSerpent,andwellmight,forEveIntentnowwhollyonhertaste,naughtelseRegarded,suchdelighttillthen,asseemd,InFruitshenevertasted,whethertrueOrfansiedso,throughexpectationhighOfknowledg,norwasGod-headfromherthought.(790)Greedilysheingorg’dwithoutrestraint,AndknewnoteatingDeath:Satiateatlength,Andhight’ndaswithWine,jocondandboon,Thustoherselfshepleasinglybegan.OSovran,vertuous,preciousofallTreesInParadise,ofoperationblestToSapience,hithertoobscur’d,infam’d,AndthyfairFruitlethang,astonoendCreated;buthenceforthmyearlycare,NotwithoutSong,eachMorning,andduepraise(800)Shalltendthee,andthefertilburdeneaseOfthyfullbranchesoffer’dfreetoall;TilldietedbytheeIgrowmatureInknowledge,astheGodswhoallthingsknow;

Thoughothersenviewhattheycannotgive;Forhadthegiftbintheirs,ithadnothereThusgrown.Experience,nexttotheeIowe,Bestguide;notfollowingthee,IhadremaindInignorance,thouop’nstWisdomsway,Andgiv’staccess,thoughsecretsheretire.(810)AndIperhapsamsecret;Heav’nishigh,HighandremotetoseefromthencedistinctEachthingonEarth;andothercareperhapsMayhavedivertedfromcontinualwatchOurgreatForbidder,safewithallhisSpiesAbouthim.ButtoAdaminwhatsortShallIappeer?shallItohimmakeknownAsyetmychange,andgivehimtopartakeFullhappinesswithmee,orrathernot,ButkeeptheoddsofKnowledgeinmypower(820)WithoutCopartner?sotoaddwhatwantsInFemalSex,themoretodrawhisLove,Andrendermemoreequal,andperhaps,Athingnotundesireable,somtimeSuperior:forinferiorwhoisfree?Thismaybewell:butwhatifGodhaveseenAndDeathensue?thenIshallbenomore,AndAdamweddedtoanotherEve,Shalllivewithherenjoying,Iextinct;Adeathtothink.Confirm’dthenIresolve,(830)Adamshallsharewithmeinblissorwoe:

SodearIlovehim,thatwithhimalldeathsIcouldendure,withouthimlivenolife.Sosaying,fromtheTreeherstepsheturnd,ButfirstlowReverencedon,astothepowerThatdweltwithin,whosepresencehadinfus’dIntotheplantscientialsap,deriv’dFromNectar,drinkofGods.AdamthewhileWaitingdesirousherreturn,hadwoveOfchoicestFloursaGarlandtoadorne(840)HerTresses,andherrurallabourscrown,AsReapersoftarewontthirHarvestQueen.Greatjoyhepromis’dtohisthoughts,andnewSolaceinherreturn,solongdelay’d;Yetofthisheart,divineofsomthingill,Misgavehim;heethefaultringmeasurefelt;Andforthtomeetherwent,thewayshetookThatMornwhenfirsttheyparted;bytheTreeOfKnowledgehemustpass,therehehermet,ScarsefromtheTreereturning;inherhand(850)Aboughoffairestfruitthatdowniesmil’d,Newgatherd,andambrosialsmelldiffus’d.Tohimshehasted,inherfaceexcuseCamePrologue,andApologietoprompt,Whichwithblandwordsatwillshethusaddrest.Hastthounotwonderd,Adam,atmystay?TheeIhavemisst,andthoughtitlong,depriv’dThypresence,agonieoflovetillnowNotfelt,norshallbetwice,fornevermore

MeanItotrie,whatrashuntri’dIsought,(860)Thepaineofabsencefromthysight.ButstrangeHathbinthecause,andwonderfultoheare:ThisTreeisnotaswearetold,aTreeOfdangertasted,nortoevilunknownOp’ningtheway,butofDivineeffectToopenEyes,andmakethemGodswhotaste;Andhathbintastedsuch:theSerpentwise,Ornotrestraindaswee,ornotobeying,Hatheat’nofthefruit,andisbecome,Notdead,aswearethreatn’d,butthenceforth(870)Endu’dwithhumanvoiceandhumansense,Reasoningtoadmiration,andwithmeePerswasivelyhathsoprevaild,thatIHavealsotasted,andhavealsofoundTh’effectstocorrespond,openermineEyesDimmerst,dilatedSpirits,amplerHeart,AndgrowinguptoGodhead;whichfortheeChieflyIsought,withouttheecandespise.Forbliss,asthouhastpart,tomeisbliss,Tedious,unshar’dwiththee,andodioussoon.(880)Thouthereforealsotaste,thatequalLotMayjoyneus,equalJoy,asequalLove;Leastthounottasting,differentdegreeDisjoyneus,andIthentoolaterenounceDeitieforthee,whenFatewillnotpermit.ThusEvewithCountnanceblitheherstorietold;ButinherCheekdistemperflushingglowd.

Onth’otherside,Adam,soonasheheardThefatalTrespassdonbyEve,amaz’d,AstoniedstoodandBlank,whilehorrorchill(890)Ranthroughhisveins,andallhisjoyntsrelax’d;FromhisslackhandtheGarlandwreath’dforEveDowndrop’d,andallthefadedRosesshed:Speechlesshestoodandpale,tillthusatlengthFirsttohimselfheinwardsilencebroke.OfairestofCreation,lastandbestOfallGodsworks,Creatureinwhomexcell’dWhatevercantosightorthoughtbeformd,Holy,divine,good,amiable,orsweet!Howartthoulost,howonasuddenlost,(900)Defac’t,deflourd,andnowtoDeathdevote?RatherhowhastthouyeeldedtotransgressThestrictforbiddance,howtoviolateThesacredFruitforbidd’n!somcursedfraudOfEnemiehathbeguil’dthee,yetunknown,Andmeewiththeehathruind,forwiththeeCertainmyresolutionistoDie;HowcanIlivewithoutthee,howforgoeThysweetConverseandLovesodearlyjoyn’d,ToliveagaininthesewildeWoodsforlorn?(910)ShouldGodcreateanotherEve,andIAnotherRibafford,yetlossoftheeWouldneverfrommyheart;nono,IfeelTheLinkofNaturedrawme:FleshofFlesh,

BoneofmyBonethouart,andfromthyStateMinenevershallbeparted,blissorwoe.Sohavingsaid,asonefromsaddismayRecomforted,andafterthoughtsdisturbdSubmittingtowhatseemdremediless,ThusincalmemoodehisWordstoEveheturnd.(920)Bolddeedthouhastpresum’d,adventrousEveAndperilgreatprovok’t,whothushastdar’dHaditbeenonelycovetingtoEyeThatsacredFruit,sacredtoabstinence,Muchmoretotasteitunderbannetotouch.Butpastwhocanrecall,ordonundoe?NotGodOmnipotent,norFate,yetsoPerhapsthoushaltnotDie,perhapstheFactIsnotsohainousnow,foretastedFruit,Profan’dfirstbytheSerpent,byhimfirst(930)Madecommonandunhallowdereourtaste;Noryetonhimfounddeadly,heyetlives,Lives,asthousaidst,andgainestoliveasManHigherdegreeofLife,inducementstrongTous,aslikelytastingtoattaineProportionalascent,whichcannotbeButtobeGods,orAngelsDemi-gods.NorcanIthinkthatGod,Creatorwise,Thoughthreatning,willinearnestsodestroyUshisprimeCreatures,dignifi’dsohigh,(940)SetoverallhisWorks,whichinourFall,Foruscreated,needswithusmustfaile,

Dependentmade;soGodshalluncreate,Befrustrate,do,undo,andlabourloose,Notwellconceav’dofGod,whothoughhisPowerCreationcouldrepeate,yetwouldbeloathUstoabolish,leasttheAdversaryTriumphandsay;FickletheirStatewhomGodMostFavors,whocanpleasehimlong;MeefirstHeruind,nowMankind;whomwillhenext?(950)Matterofscorne,nottobegiventheFoe,HoweverIwiththeehavefixtmyLot,Certaintoundergoelikedoom,ifDeathConsortwiththee,DeathistomeeasLife;SoforciblewithinmyheartIfeelTheBondofNaturedrawmetomyowne,Myowninthee,forwhatthouartismine;OurStatecannotbeseverd,weareone,OneFlesh;toloosetheeweretoloosemyself.SoAdam,andthusEvetohimrepli’d.(960)OglorioustrialofexceedingLove,Illustriousevidence,examplehigh!Ingagingmetoemulate,butshortOfthyperfection,howshallIattaine,Adam,fromwhosedearesideIboastmesprung,AndgladlyofourUnionhearetheespeak,OneHeart,oneSoulinboth;whereofgoodprooffThisdayaffords,declaringtheeresolvd,RatherthenDeathoraughtthenDeathmoredreadShallseparateus,linktinLovesodeare,(970)

ToundergoewithmeeoneGuilt,oneCrime,Ifanybe,oftastingthisfairFruit,Whosevertue,forofgoodstillgoodproceeds,Direct,orbyoccasionhathpresentedThishappietrialofthyLove,whichelseSoeminentlyneverhadbinknown.WereitIthoughtDeathmenac’twouldensueThismyattempt,IwouldsustainaloneTheworst,andnotperswadethee,ratherdieDeserted,thenobligetheewithafact(980)PernicioustothyPeace,chieflyassur’dRemarkablysolateofthysotrue,SofaithfulLoveunequald;butIfeelFarrotherwiseth’event,notDeath,butLifeAugmented,op’ndEyes,newHopes,newJoyes,TastesoDivine,thatwhatofsweetbeforeHathtouchtmysense,flatseemstothis,andharsh.Onmyexperience,Adam,freelytaste,AndfearofDeathdelivertotheWindes.Sosaying,sheembrac’dhim,andforjoy(990)Tenderlywept,muchwonthathehisLoveHadsoenobl’d,asofchoicetoincurrDivinedispleasureforhersake,orDeath.Inrecompence(forsuchcompliancebadSuchrecompencebestmerits)fromtheboughShegavehimofthatfairenticingFruitWithliberalhand:hescrupl’dnottoeat

Againsthisbetterknowledge,notdeceav’d,ButfondlyovercomewithFemalcharm.Earthtrembl’dfromherentrails,asagain(1000)Inpangs,andNaturegaveasecondgroan,Skielowr’d,andmutteringThunder,somsaddropsWeptatcompleatingofthemortalSinOriginal;whileAdamtooknothought,Eatinghisfill,norEvetoiterateHerformertrespassfear’d,themoretosootheHimwithherlov’dsocietie,thatnowAswithnewWineintoxicatedbothTheyswiminmirth,andfansiethattheyfeelDivinitiewithinthembreedingwings(1010)WherewithtoscorntheEarth:butthatfalseFruitFarrotheroperationfirstdisplaid,Carnaldesireenflaming,heeonEveBegantocastlasciviousEyes,shehimAswantonlyrepaid;inLusttheyburne:TillAdamthus‘ganEvetodalliancemove,Eve,nowIseethouartexactoftaste,Andelegant,ofSapiencenosmallpart,Sincetoeachmeaningsavourweapply,AndPalatecalljudicious;Ithepraise(1020)Yeildthee,sowellthisdaythouhastpurvey’d.Muchpleasurewehavelost,whileweabstain’dFromthisdelightfulFruit,norknowntillnowTruerelish,tasting;ifsuchpleasurebeInthingstousforbidden,itmightbewish’d,

ForthisoneTreehadbinforbiddenten.Butcome,sowellrefresh’t,nowletusplay,Asmeetis,aftersuchdeliciousFare;ForneverdidthyBeautiesincethedayIsawtheefirstandweddedthee,adorn’d(1030)Withallperfections,soenflamemysenseWithardortoenjoythee,fairernowThenever,bountieofthisvertuousTree.Sosaidhe,andforborenotglanceortoyOfamorousintent,wellunderstoodOfEve,whoseEyedartedcontagiousFire.Herhandheseis’d,andtoashadiebank,Thickoverheadwithverdantroofimbowr’dHeledhernothingloath;FloursweretheCouch,Pansies,andViolets,andAsphodel,(1040)AndHyacinth,Earthsfreshestsoftestlap.TheretheythirfillofLoveandLovesdisportTooklargely,ofthirmutualguilttheSeale,Thesolaceofthirsin,tilldewiesleepOppress’dthem,weariedwiththiramorousplay.SoonastheforceofthatfallaciousFruit,ThatwithexhileratingvapourblandAboutthirspiritshadplaid,andinmostpowersMadeerre,wasnowexhal’d,andgrossersleepBredofunkindlyfumes,withconsciousdreams(1050)Encumberd,nowhadleftthem,uptheyroseAsfromunrest,andeachtheotherviewing,SoonfoundthirEyeshowop’nd,andthirminds

Howdark’nd;innocence,thatasaveileHadshadow’dthemfromknowingill,wasgon,Justconfidence,andnativerighteousnessAndhonourfromaboutthem,nakedleftToguiltieshameheecover’d,buthisRobeUncover’dmore.SorosetheDanitestrongHerculeanSamsonfromtheHarlot-lap(1060)OfPhilisteanDalilah,andwak’dShornofhisstrength,TheydestituteandbareOfallthirvertue:silent,andinfaceConfoundedlongtheysate,asstruck’nmute,TillAdam,thoughnotlessthenEveabasht,Atlengthgaveutterancetothesewordsconstraind.OEve,inevilhourthoudidstgiveeareTothatfalseWorm,ofwhomsoevertaughtTocounterfetMansvoice,trueinourFall,Falseinourpromis’dRising;sinceourEyes(1070)Op’ndwefindindeed,andfindweknowBothGoodandEvil,Goodlost,andEvilgot,BadFruitofKnowledge,ifthisbetoknow,Whichleavesusnakedthus,ofHonourvoid,OfInnocence,ofFaith,ofPuritie,OurwontedOrnamentsnowsoildandstaind,AndinourFacesevidentthesignesOffoulconcupiscence;whenceevilstore;Evenshame,thelastofevils;ofthefirstBesurethen.HowshallIbeholdtheface(1080)

HenceforthofGodorAngel,earstwithjoyAndrapturesooftbeheld?thoseheav’nlyshapesWilldazlenowthisearthly,withthirblazeInsufferablybright.OmightIhereInsolitudelivesavage,insomegladeObscur’d,wherehighestWoodsimpenetrableToStarrorSun-light,spreadthirumbragebroad,AndbrownasEvening:CovermeyePines,YeCedars,withinnumerableboughsHideme,whereImayneverseethemmore.(1090)Butletusnow,asinbadplight,deviseWhatbestmayforthepresentservetohideThePartsofeachfromother,thatseemmostToshameobnoxious,andunseemliestseen,SomeTreewhosebroadsmoothLeavestogethersowd,Andgirdedonourloyns,maycoverroundThosemiddleparts,thatthisnewcommer,Shame,Theresitnot,andreproachusasunclean.Socounsel’dhee,andbothtogetherwentIntothethickestWood,theresoontheychose(1100)TheFigtree,notthatkindforFruitrenown’d,ButsuchasatthisdaytoIndiansknownInMalabarorDecanspredsherArmesBraunchingsobroadandlong,thatinthegroundThebendedTwigstakeroot,andDaughtersgrowAbouttheMotherTree,aPillardshadeHighoverarch’t,andechoingWalksbetween;ThereofttheIndianHerdsmanshunningheate

Sheltersincoole,andtendshispasturingHerdsAtLoopholescutthroughthickestshade:ThoseLeaves(1110)Theygatherd,broadasAmazonianTarge,Andwithwhatskilltheyhad,togethersowd,Togirdthirwaste,vainCoveringiftohideThirguiltanddreadedshame;OhowunlikeTothatfirstnakedGlorie.SuchoflateColumbusfoundth’AmericansogirtWithfeatherdCincture,nakedelseandwildeAmongtheTreesonIlesandwoodieShores.Thusfenc’t,andastheythought,thirshameinpartCoverd,butnotatrestoreaseofMind,(1120)Theysatethemdowntoweep,noronelyTearesRaindatthirEyes,buthighWindsworsewithinBegantorise,highPassions,Anger,Hate,Mistrust,Suspicion,Discord,andshooksoreThirinwardStateofMind,calmeRegiononceAndfullofPeace,nowtostandturbulent:ForUnderstandingrul’dnot,andtheWillHeardnotherlore,bothinsubjectionnowTosensualAppetite,whofrombeneatheUsurpingoversovranReasonclaimd(1130)Superiorsway:Fromthusdistemperdbrest,Adam,estrang’dinlookandalterdstile,SpeechintermittedthustoEverenewd.Wouldthouhadstheark’ndtomywords,andstai’dWithme,asIbesoughtthee,whenthatstrangeDesireofwandringthisunhappieMorn,

Iknownotwhencepossessdthee;wehadthenRemaindstillhappie,notasnow,despoildOfallourgood,sham’d,naked,miserable.Letnonehenceforthseekneedlesscausetoapprove(1140)TheFaiththeyowe;whenearnestlytheyseekSuchproof,conclude,theythenbegintofaile.Towhomsoonmov’dwithtouchofblamethusEve.WhatwordshavepastthyLips,Adamsevere,Imput’stthouthattomydefault,orwillOfwandring,asthoucall’stit,whichwhoknowsButmightasillhavehapp’ndthoubeingby,Ortothyselfperhaps:hadstthoubeenthere,Orhereth’attempt,thoucouldstnothavediscerndFraudintheSerpent,speakingashespake;(1150)Nogroundofenmitiebetweenusknown,Whyheeshouldmeanmeill,orseektoharme.WasItohaveneverpartedfromthyside?AsgoodhavegrowntherestillalivelessRib.BeingasIam,whydidstnotthoutheHeadCommandmeabsolutelynottogo,Goingintosuchdangerasthousaidst?Toofacilthenthoudidstnotmuchgainsay,Nay,didstpermit,approve,andfairdismiss.Hadstthoubinfirmandfixtinthydissent,(1160)NeitherhadItransgress’d,northouwithmee.TowhomthenfirstincenstAdamrepli’d.IsthistheLove,isthistherecompence

Ofminetothee,ingratefulEve,exprestImmutablewhenthouwertlost,notI,Whomighthaveliv’dandjoydimmortalbliss,YetwillinglychoseratherDeathwiththee:AndamInowupbraided,asthecauseOfthytransgressing?notenoughsevere,Itseems,inthyrestraint:whatcouldImore?(1170)Iwarn’dthee,Iadmonish’dthee,foretoldThedanger,andthelurkingEnemieThatlayinwait;beyondthishadbinforce,AndforceuponfreeWillhathherenoplace.Butconfidencethenboretheeon,secureEithertomeetnodanger,ortofindeMatterofglorioustrial;andperhapsIalsoerr’dinovermuchadmiringWhatseemdintheesoperfet,thatIthoughtNoevildurstattemptthee,butIrue(1180)Thaterrournow,whichisbecomemycrime,Andthouth’accuser.ThusitshallbefallHimwhotoworthinWomenovertrustingLetsherWillrule;restraintshewillnotbrook,Andlefttoherself,ifevilthenceensue,Sheefirsthisweakindulgencewillaccuse.ThustheyinmutualaccusationspentThefruitlesshours,butneitherself-condemning,Andofthirvaincontestappeer’dnoend.

TheEndoftheNinthBook.

Book X

TheArgument

Manstransgression known, the Guardian Angels forsake Paradise, and return up to

Heaven toapprove thirvigilance,andareapprov’d,Goddeclaring thatTheentranceof

Satancouldnotbebythemprevented.HesendshisSontojudgetheTransgressors,whodescends and gives Sentence accordingly; then in pity cloaths them both, and reascends.

SinandDeathsittingtillthenattheGatesof Hell,bywondroussympathiefeelingthesuccessof Satanin thisnewWorld,andthesinbyMantherecommitted,resolvetosit

no longer confin’d inHell, but to followSatanthirSireup to theplace of Man:To

makethewayeasierfromHelltothisWorldtoandfro,theypaveabroadHighwayor

Bridge overChaos, according to theTrack thatSatanfirstmade; then preparing forEarth, theymeet him proud of his success returning toHell; thirmutual gratulation.

SatanarrivesatPandemonium,infullof assemblyrelateswithboastinghissuccess

againstMan;insteadof applauseisentertainedwithageneralhissbyallhisaudience,

transform’d with himself also suddenly into Serpents, according to his doom giv’n in

Paradise;thendeludedwithashewof theforbiddenTreespringingupbeforethem,they

greedilyreachingtotakeof theFruit,chewdustandbitterashes.Theproceedingsof SinandDeath;GodforetelsthefinalVictoryof hisSonoverthem,andtherenewingof allthings; but for the present commands his Angels to make several alterations in the

Heavens and Elements.Adammore and more perceiving his fall’n condition heavilybewailes,rejectsthecondolementof Eve;shepersistsandatlengthappeaseshim:thentoevadetheCurselikelytofallonthirOfspring,proposestoAdamviolentwayeswhichheapprovesnot,butconceivingbetterhope,putsherinmindof thelatePromisemadethem,

thatherSeedshouldbereveng’dontheSerpent,andexhortsherwithhimtoseekPeaceof

theoffendedDeity,byrepentanceandsupplication.

MeanwhilethehainousanddespightfullactOfSatandoneinParadise,andhowHeeintheSerpent,hadpervertedEve,HerHusbandshee,totastethefatallfruit,WasknowninHeav’n;forwhatcanscapetheEyeOfGodAll-seeing,ordeceavehisHeartOmniscient,whoinallthingswiseandjust,Hinder’dnotSatantoattemptthemindeOfMan,withstrengthentire,andfreeWillarm’d,Completetohavediscover’dandrepulst(10)WhateverwilesofFoeorseemingFriend.Forstilltheyknew,andoughttohavestillremember’dThehighInjunctionnottotastethatFruit,Whoevertempted;whichtheynotobeying,Incurr’d,whatcouldtheyless,thepenaltie,Andmanifoldinsin,deserv’dtofall.UpintoHeav’nfromParadiseinhastTh’AngelicGuardsascended,muteandsadForMan,forofhisstatebythistheyknew,MuchwondringhowthesuttleFiendhadstoln(20)Entranceunseen.Soonasth’unwelcomenewsFromEartharriv’datHeavenGate,displeas’dAllwerewhoheard,dimsadnessdidnotspareThattimeCelestialvisages,yetmixtWithpitie,violatednotthirbliss.Aboutthenew-arriv’d,inmultitudes

Th’etherealPeopleran,tohearandknowHowallbefell:theytowardstheThroneSupreamAccountablemadehastetomakeappearWithrighteousplea,thirutmostvigilance,(30)Andeasilyapprov’d;whenthemostHighEternalFatherfromhissecretCloud,AmidstinThunderutter’dthushisvoice.Assembl’dAngels,andyePowersreturn’dFromunsuccessfulcharge,benotdismaid,Nortroubl’datthesetidingsfromtheEarth,Whichyoursincerestcarecouldnotprevent,Foretoldsolatelywhatwouldcometopass,WhenfirstthisTemptercross’dtheGulffromHell.Itoldyethenheshouldprevailandspeed(40)OnhisbadErrand,Manshouldbeseduc’tAndflatter’doutofall,believingliesAgainsthisMaker;noDecreeofmineConcurringtonecessitatehisFall,OrtouchwithlightestmomentofimpulseHisfreeWill,toherownincliningleftInevenscale.Butfall’nheis,andnowWhatrests,butthatthemortalSentencepassOnhistransgression,Deathdenounc’tthatday,Whichhepresumesalreadyvainandvoid,(50)Becausenotyetinflicted,ashefear’d,Bysomeimmediatestroak;butsoonshallfindForbearancenoacquittanceeredayend.Justiceshallnotreturnasbountiescorn’d.

ButwhomsendItojudgethem?whombuttheeVicegerentSon,totheeIhavetransferr’dAllJudgementwhetherinHeav’n,orEarth,orHell.EasieitmightbeseenthatIintendMerciecolleguewithJustice,sendingtheeMansFriend,hisMediator,hisdesign’d(60)BothRansomandRedeemervoluntarie,Anddestin’dManhimselftojudgeManfall’n.SospaketheFather,andunfouldingbrightTowardtherighthandhisGlorie,ontheSonBlaz’dforthuncloudedDeitie;hefullResplendentallhisFathermanifestExpress’d,andthusdivinelyanswer’dmilde.FatherEternal,thineistodecree,MinebothinHeav’nandEarthtodothywillSupream,thatthouinmeethySonbelov’d(70)Maysteverrestwellpleas’d.IgotojudgeOnEarththesethytransgressors,butthouknowst,Whoeverjudg’d,theworstonmeemustlight,Whentimeshallbe,forsoIundertookBeforethee;andnotrepenting,thisobtaineOfright,thatImaymitigatethirdoomOnmederiv’d,yetIshalltempersoJusticewithMercie,asmayillustratemostThemfullysatisfied,andtheeappease.Attendancenoneshallneed,norTrain,wherenone(80)AretobeholdtheJudgement,butthejudg’d,Thosetwo;thethirdbestabsentiscondemn’d,

Convictbyflight,andRebeltoallLawConvictiontotheSerpentnonebelongs.Thussaying,fromhisradiantSeatheroseOfhighcollateralglorie:himThronesandPowers,Princedoms,andDominationsministrantAccompaniedtoHeavenGate,fromwhenceEdenandalltheCoastinprospectlay.Downhedescendedstrait;thespeedofGods(90)Timecountsnot,thoughwithswiftestminuteswing’d.NowwastheSuninWesterncadencelowFromNoon,andgentleAiresdueatthirhourTofantheEarthnowwak’d,andusherinTheEevningcoolewhenhefromwrauthmorecooleCamethemildJudgeandIntercessorbothTosentenceMan:thevoiceofGodtheyheardNowwalkingintheGarden,bysoftwindesBroughttothirEars,whiledaydeclin’d,theyheard,Andfromhispresencehidthemselvesamong(100)ThethickestTrees,bothManandWife,tillGodApproaching,thustoAdamcall’daloud.WhereartthouAdam,wontwithjoytomeetMycomingseenfaroff?Imisstheehere,Notpleas’d,thusentertaindwithsolitude,Whereobviousdutieerewhileappear’dunsaught:OrcomeIlessconspicuous,orwhatchangeAbsentsthee,orwhatchancedetains?Comeforth.Hecame,andwithhimEve,moreloth,thoughfirst

Tooffend,discount’nanc’tboth,anddiscompos’d;(110)Lovewasnotinthirlooks,eithertoGodOrtoeachother,butapparentguilt,Andshame,andperturbation,anddespaire,Anger,andobstinacie,andhate,andguile.WhenceAdamfaultringlong,thusanswer’dbrief.IheardtheeintheGarden,andofthyvoiceAffraid,beingnaked,hidmyself.TowhomThegraciousJudgewithoutrevilerepli’d.Myvoicethouofthastheard,andhastnotfear’d,Butstillrejoyc’t,howisitnowbecome(120)Sodreadfultothee?thatthouartnaked,whoHathtoldthee?hastthoueatenoftheTreeWhereofIgavetheechargethoushouldstnoteat?TowhomthusAdamsorebesetrepli’d.OHeav’n!inevilstraitthisdayIstandBeforemyJudge,eithertoundergoeMyselfthetotalCrime,ortoaccuseMyotherself,thepartnerofmylife;Whosefailing,whileherFaithtomeremaines,Ishouldconceal,andnotexposetoblame(130)Bymycomplaint;butstrictnecessitieSubduesme,andcalamitousconstraintLeastonmyheadbothsinandpunishment,Howeverinsupportable,beallDevolv’d;thoughshouldIholdmypeace,yetthouWouldsteasilydetectwhatIconceale.ThisWomanwhomthoumad’sttobemyhelp,

Andgav’stmeasthyperfetgift,sogood,Sofit,soacceptable,soDivine,ThatfromherhandIcouldsuspectnoill,(140)Andwhatshedid,whateverinitself,Herdoingseem’dtojustifiethedeed;SheegavemeoftheTree,andIdideate.TowhomthesovranPresencethusrepli’d.WassheethyGod,thatherthoudidstobeyBeforehisvoice,orwassheemadethyguide,Superior,orbutequal,thattoherThoudid’stresignethyManhood,andthePlaceWhereinGodsettheeabovehermadeofthee,Andforthee,whoseperfectionfarrexcell’d(150)Hersinallrealdignitie:AdorndShewasindeed,andlovelytoattractThyLove,notthySubjection,andherGiftsWeresuchasunderGovernmentwellseem’d,Unseemlytobearerule,whichwasthypartAndperson,had’stthouknownthyselfaright.Sohavingsaid,hethustoEveinfew:SayWoman,whatisthiswhichthouhastdone?TowhomsadEvewithshamenighoverwhelm’d,Confessingsoon,yetnotbeforeherJudge(160)Boldorloquacious,thusabashtrepli’d.TheSerpentmebeguil’dandIdideate.WhichwhentheLordGodheard,withoutdelayToJudgementheproceededonth’accus’dSerpentthoughbrute,unabletotransferre

TheGuiltonhimwhomadehiminstrumentOfmischief,andpollutedfromtheendOfhisCreation;justlythenaccurst,AsvitiatedinNature:moretoknowConcern’dnotMan(sincehenofurtherknew)(170)Noralter’dhisoffence;yetGodatlastToSatanfirstinsinhisdoomapply’dThoughinmysteriousterms,judg’dasthenbest:AndontheSerpentthushiscurseletfall.Becausethouhastdonethis,thouartaccurstAboveallCattle,eachBeastoftheField;UponthyBellygrovelingthoushaltgoe,AnddustshalteatallthedaysofthyLife.BetweenTheeandtheWomanIwillputEnmitie,andbetweenthineandherSeed;(180)HerSeedshallbruisethyhead,thoubruisehisheel.SospakethisOracle,thenverifi’dWhenJesussonofMarysecondEve,SawSatanfalllikeLightningdownfromHeav’n,PrinceoftheAire;thenrisingfromhisGraveSpoildPrincipalitiesandPowers,triumphtInopenshew,andwithascentionbrightCaptivityledcaptivethroughtheAire,TheRealmeitselfofSatanlongusurpt,Whomheshalltreadatlastunderourfeet;(190)Eevnheewhonowforetoldhisfatalbruise,AndtotheWomanthushisSentenceturn’d.

ThysorrowIwillgreatlymultiplieBythyConception;ChildrenthoushaltbringInsorrowforth,andtothyHusbandswillThineshallsubmit,heeovertheeshallrule.OnAdamlastthusjudgementhepronounc’d.Becausethouhastheark’ndtothevoiceofthyWife,AndeatenoftheTreeconcerningwhichIcharg’dthee,saying:Thoushaltnoteatethereof,(200)Curs’disthegroundforthysake,thouinsorrowShalteatethereofallthedaysofthyLife;ThornesalsoandThistlesitshallbringtheeforthUnbid,andthoushalteateth’Herbofth’Field,InthesweatofthyFaceshaltthoueateBread,Tillthoureturnuntotheground,forthouOutofthegroundwasttaken,knowthyBirth,Fordustthouart,andshalttodustreturne.Sojudg’dheMan,bothJudgeandSavioursent,Andth’instantstrokeofDeathdenounc’tthatday(210)Remov’dfarroff;thenpittyinghowtheystoodBeforehimnakedtotheaire,thatnowMustsufferchange,disdain’dnottobeginThenceforththeformeofservanttoassume,Aswhenhewash’dhisservantsfeet,sonowAsFatherofhisFamiliehecladThirnakednesswithSkinsofBeasts,orslain,OrastheSnakewithyouthfulCoaterepaid;AndthoughtnotmuchtocloathhisEnemies:NorheethiroutwardonelywiththeSkins(220)

OfBeasts,butinwardnakedness,muchmoreOpprobrious,withhisRobeofrighteousness,Arayingcover’dfromhisFatherssight.Tohimwithswiftascentheupreturn’d,Intohisblissfulbosomreassum’dIngloryasofold,tohimappeas’dAll,thoughall-knowing,whathadpastwithManRecounted,mixingintercessionsweet.Meanwhileerethuswassin’dandjudg’donEarth,WithintheGatesofHellsateSinandDeath,(230)IncounterviewwithintheGates,thatnowStoodopenwide,belchingoutrageousflameFarrintoChaos,sincetheFiendpass’dthrough,Sinopening,whothusnowtoDeathbegan.OSon,whysitwehereeachotherviewingIdlely,whileSatanourgreatAuthorthrivesInotherWorlds,andhappierSeatprovidesForushisofspringdeare?ItcannotbeButthatsuccessattendshim;ifmishap,Erethishehadreturn’d,withfurydriv’n(240)ByhisAvenger,sincenoplacelikethisCanfithispunishment,ortheirrevenge.MethinksIfeelnewstrengthwithinmerise,Wingsgrowing,andDominiongiv’nmelargeBeyondthisDeep;whateverdrawesmeon,Orsympathie,orsomconnaturalforcePowerfulatgreatestdistancetouniteWithsecretamitythingsoflikekinde

Bysecretestconveyance.ThoumyShadeInseparablemustwithmeealong:(250)ForDeathfromSinnopowercanseparate.ButleastthedifficultieofpassingbackStayhisreturneperhapsoverthisGulfeImpassable,impervious,letustryAdventrouswork,yettothypowerandmineNotunagreeable,tofoundapathOverthisMainefromHelltothatnewWorldWhereSatannowprevailes,aMonumentOfmerithightoallth’infernalHost,Easingthirpassagehence,forintercourse,(260)Ortransmigration,asthirlotshalllead.NorcanImisstheway,sostronglydrawnBythisnewfeltattractionandinstinct.WhomthusthemeagerShadowanswerdsoon.GoewhitherFateandinclinationstrongLeadsthee,Ishallnotlagbehinde,norerreTheway,thouleading,suchasentIdrawOfcarnage,preyinnumerable,andtasteThesavourofDeathfromallthingstherethatlive:NorshallItotheworkthouenterprisest(270)Bewanting,butaffordtheeequalaid.Sosaying,withdelighthesnuff’dthesmellOfmortalchangeonEarth.AswhenaflockOfravenousFowl,thoughmanyaLeagueremote,AgainstthedayofBattel,toaField,

WhereArmieslieencampt,comeflying,lur’dWithsentoflivingCarcassesdesign’dFordeath,thefollowingday,inbloodiefight.SosentedthegrimFeature,andupturn’dHisNostrilwideintothemurkieAir,(280)SagaciousofhisQuarreyfromsofarr.ThenBothfromoutHellGatesintothewasteWideAnarchieofChaosdampanddarkFlewdivers,andwithPower(thirPowerwasgreat)HoveringupontheWaters;whattheymetSolidorslimie,asinragingSeaTostupanddown,togethercrowdeddroveFromeachsideshoalingtowardsthemouthofHell.AswhentwoPolarWindsblowingadverseUpontheCronianSea,togetherdrive(290)MountainsofIce,thatstopth’imagin’dwayBeyondPetsoraEastward,totherichCathaianCoast.TheaggregatedSoyleDeathwithhisMacepetrific,coldanddry,AswithaTridentsmote,andfix’tasfirmAsDelosfloatingonce;theresthislookBoundwithGorgonianrigornottomove,AndwithAsphalticslime;broadastheGate,DeeptotheRootsofHellthegather’dbeachTheyfasten’d,andtheMoleimmensewraughton(300)OverthefoamingdeephighArcht,aBridgeOflengthprodigiousjoyningtotheWallImmovableofthisnowfencelessworld

ForfeittoDeath;fromhenceapassagebroad,Smooth,easie,inoffensivedowntoHell.So,ifgreatthingstosmallmaybecompar’d,Xerxes,theLibertieofGreecetoyoke,FromSusahisMemnonianPalacehighCametotheSea,andoverHellespontBridginghisway,EuropewithAsiajoyn’d,(310)Andscourg’dwithmanyastroakth’indignantwaves.NowhadtheybroughttheworkbywondrousArtPontifical,aridgeofpendentRockOverthevextAbyss,followingthetrackOfSatan,totheselfsameplacewhereheeFirstlightedfromhisWing,andlandedsafeFromoutofChaostotheoutsidebareOfthisroundWorld:withPinnsofAdamantAndChainstheymadeallfast,toofasttheymadeAnddurable;andnowinlittlespace(320)TheConfinesmetofEmpyreanHeav’nAndofthisWorld,andonthelefthandHellWithlongreachinterpos’d;threesev’ralwayesInsight,toeachofthesethreeplacesled.AndnowthirwaytoEarththeyhaddescri’d,ToParadisefirsttending,whenbeholdSataninlikenessofanAngelbrightBetwixttheCentaureandtheScorpionstearingHisZenith,whiletheSuninAriesrose:Disguis’dhecame,butthosehisChildrendear(330)ThirParentsoondiscern’d,thoughindisguise.

Hee,afterEveseduc’t,unmindedslunkIntotheWoodfastby,andchangingshapeToobservethesequel,sawhisguilefulactByEve,thoughallunweeting,secondedUponherHusband,sawthirshamethatsoughtVaincovertures;butwhenhesawdescendTheSonofGodtojudgethem,terrifi’dHeefled,nothopingtoescape,butshunThepresent,fearingguiltiewhathiswrauth(340)Mightsuddenlyinflict;thatpast,return’dByNight,andlistningwherethehaplessPaireSateinthirsaddiscourse,andvariousplaint,Thencegatherdhisowndoom,whichunderstoodNotinstant,butoffuturetime.WithjoyAndtidingsfraught,toHellhenowreturn’d,AndatthebrinkofChaos,neerthefootOfthisnewwondrousPontifice,unhop’tMetwhotomeethimcame,hisOfspringdear.Greatjoywasatthirmeeting,andatsight(350)OfthatstupendiousBridgehisjoyencreas’d.Longheeadmiringstood,tillSin,hisfaireInchantingDaughter,thusthesilencebroke.OParent,thesearethymagnificdeeds,ThyTrophies,whichthouview’stasnotthineown,ThouartthirAuthorandprimeArchitect:ForInosoonerinmyHeartdivin’d,MyHeart,whichbyasecretharmonie

Stillmoveswiththine,joyn’dinconnexionsweet,ThatthouonEarthhadstprosper’d,whichthylooks(360)Nowalsoevidence,butstraightIfeltThoughdistantfromtheeWorldsbetween,yetfeltThatImustaftertheewiththisthySon;Suchfatalconsequenceunitesusthree:Hellcouldnolongerholdusinherbounds,NorthisunvoyageableGulfobscureDetainfromfollowingthyillustrioustrack.Thouhastatchiev’dourlibertie,confin’dWithinHellGatestillnow,thouusimpow’rdTofortifiethusfarr,andoverlay(370)WiththisportentousBridgethedarkAbyss.ThinenowisallthisWorld,thyvertuehathwonWhatthyhandsbuildednot,thyWisdomgain’dWithoddswhatWarrhathlost,andfullyaveng’dOurfoileinHeav’n;herethoushaltMonarchreign,Theredidstnot;therelethimstillVictorsway,AsBattelhathadjudg’d,fromthisnewWorldRetiring,byhisowndoomalienated,AndhenceforthMonarchiewiththeedivideOfallthings,partedbyth’Empyrealbounds,(380)HisQuadrature,fromthyOrbicularWorld,Ortrietheenowmoredang’roustohisThrone.WhomthusthePrinceofDarknessanswerdglad.FairDaughter,andthouSonandGrandchildboth,Highproofyenowhavegiv’ntobetheRaceOfSatan(forIglorieinthename,

AntagonistofHeav’nsAlmightieKing)Amplyhavemeritedofme,ofallTh’InfernalEmpire,thatsoneerHeav’nsdoreTriumphalwithtriumphalacthavemet,(390)MinewiththisgloriousWork,andmadeoneRealmHellandthisWorld,oneRealm,oneContinentOfeasiethorough-fare.ThereforewhileIDescendthroughDarkness,onyourRodewitheaseTomyassociatePowers,themtoacquaintWiththesesuccesses,andwiththemrejoyce,Youtwothisway,amongthosenumerousOrbsAllyours,rightdowntoParadisedescend;TheredwellandReigninbliss,thenceontheEarthDominionexerciseandintheAire,(400)ChieflyonMan,soleLordofalldeclar’d,Himfirstmakesureyourthrall,andlastlykill.MySubstitutesIsendye,andCreatePlenipotentonEarth,ofmatchlessmightIssuingfrommee:onyourjoyntvigornowMyholdofthisnewKingdomalldepends,ThroughSintoDeathexpos’dbymyexploit.Ifyourjoyntpowerprevaile,th’affairesofHellNodetrimentneedfeare,goeandbestrong.Sosayinghedismiss’dthem,theywithspeed(410)ThircoursethroughthickestConstellationsheldSpreadingthirbane;theblastedStarrslooktwan,AndPlanets,Planet-strook,realEclipsThensufferd.Th’otherwaySatanwentdown

TheCauseytoHellGate;oneithersideDispartedChaosoverbuiltexclaimd,Andwithreboundingsurgethebarrsassaild,Thatscorn’dhisindignation:throughtheGate,Wideopenandunguarded,Satanpass’d,Andallaboutfounddesolate;forthose(420)Appointedtositthere,hadleftthircharge,FlowntotheupperWorld;therestwereallFarrtotheinlandretir’d,aboutthewallsOfPandæmonium,CitieandproudseateOfLucifer,sobyallusioncalld,OfthatbrightStarrtoSatanparagond.TherekeptthirWatchtheLegions,whiletheGrandInCouncilsate,sollicitouswhatchanceMightinterceptthirEmperoursent,soheeDepartinggavecommand,andtheyobserv’d.(430)AswhentheTartarfromhisRussianFoeByAstracanovertheSnowiePlainesRetires,orBactrianSophifromthehornesOfTurkishCrescent,leavesallwastebeyondTheRealmeofAladule,inhisretreateToTaurisorCasbeen.SothesethelateHeav’n-banishtHost,leftdesertutmostHellManyadarkLeague,reduc’tincarefulWatchRoundthirMetropolis,andnowexpectingEachhourtheirgreatadventurerfromthesearch(440)OfForreinWorlds:hethroughthemidstunmarkt,

InshewplebeianAngelmilitantOflowestorder,past;andfromthedoreOfthatPlutonianHall,invisibleAscendedhishighThrone,whichunderstateOfrichesttexturespred,atth’upperendWasplac’tinregallustre.DownawhileHesate,androundabouthimsawunseen:AtlastasfromaCloudhisfulgentheadAndshapeStarr-brightappeer’d,orbrighter,clad(450)WithwhatpermissiveglorysincehisfallWaslefthim,orfalseglitter:Allamaz’dAtthatsosuddenblazetheStygianthrongBentthiraspect,andwhomtheywish’dbeheld,ThirmightyChiefreturnd:loudwasth’acclaime:Forthrush’dinhastethegreatconsultingPeers,Rais’dfromthirdarkDivan,andwithlikejoyCongratulantapproach’dhim,whowithhandSilence,andwiththesewordsattentionwon.Thrones,Dominations,Princedoms,Vertues,Powers,(460)Forinpossessionsuch,notonelyofright,Icallyeanddeclareyenow,returndSuccessfulbeyondhope,toleadyeforthTriumphantoutofthisinfernalPitAbominable,accurst,thehouseofwoe,AndDungeonofourTyrant:Nowpossess,AsLords,aspaciousWorld,toournativeHeavenLittleinferiour,bymyadventurehardWithperilgreatatchiev’d.Longweretotell

WhatIhavedon,whatsufferd,withwhatpaine(470)Voyag’dth’unreal,vast,unboundeddeepOfhorribleconfusion,overwhichBySinandDeathabroadwaynowispav’dToexpediteyourgloriousmarch;butIToildoutmyuncouthpassage,forc’ttorideTh’untractableAbysse,plung’dinthewombOfunoriginalNightandChaoswilde,Thatjealousofthirsecretsfiercelyoppos’dMyjourneystrange,withclamorousuproareProtestingFatesupreame;thencehowIfound(480)ThenewcreatedWorld,whichfameinHeav’nLonghadforetold,aFabrickwonderfulOfabsoluteperfection,thereinManPlac’tinaParadise,byourexileMadehappie:HimbyfraudIhaveseduc’dFromhisCreator,andthemoretoincreaseYourwonder,withanApple;hethereatOffended,worthyourlaughter,hathgiv’nupBothhisbelovedManandallhisWorld,ToSinandDeathaprey,andsotous,(490)Withoutourhazard,labour,orallarme,Torangein,andtodwell,andoverManTorule,asoverallheshouldhaverul’d.Trueis,meealsohehathjudg’d,orratherMeenot,butthebruteSerpentinwhoseshapeManIdeceav’d:thatwhichtomeebelongs,Isenmity,whichhewillputbetween

MeeandMankinde;Iamtobruisehisheel;HisSeed,whenisnotset,shallbruisemyhead:AWorldwhowouldnotpurchasewithabruise,(500)Ormuchmoregrievouspain?Yehaveth’accountOfmyperformance:Whatremaines,yeGods,Butupandenternowintofullbliss.Sohavingsaid,awhilehestood,expectingThiruniversalshoutandhighapplauseTofillhiseare,whencontraryhehearsOnallsides,frominnumerabletonguesAdismaluniversalhiss,thesoundOfpublicscorn;hewonderd,butnotlongHadleasure,wondringathimselfnowmore;(510)HisVisagedrawnhefelttosharpandspare,HisArmesclungtohisRibs,hisLeggsentwiningEachother,tillsupplanteddownhefellAmonstrousSerpentonhisBellyprone,Reluctant,butinvaine:agreaterpowerNowrul’dhim,punishtintheshapehesin’d,Accordingtohisdoom:hewouldhavespoke,ButhissforhissreturndwithforkedtongueToforkedtongue,fornowwerealltransform’dAlike,toSerpentsallasaccessories(520)TohisboldRiot:dreadfulwasthedinOfhissingthroughtheHall,thickswarmingnowWithcomplicatedmonstersheadandtaile,ScorpionandAsp,andAmphisbænadire,

Cerasteshornd,Hydrus,andEllopsdrear,AndDipsas(Notsothickswarm’doncetheSoilBedroptwithbloodofGorgon,ortheIsleOphiusa)butstillgreatestheethemidst,NowDragongrown,largerthenwhomtheSunIngenderdinthePythianValeonslime,(530)HugePython,andhisPowernolessheseem’dAbovethereststilltoretain;theyallHimfollow’dissuingforthtoth’openField,WhereallyetleftofthatrevoltedRoutHeav’n-fall’n,instationstoodorjustarray,SublimewithexpectationwhentoseeInTriumphissuingforththirgloriousChief;Theysaw,butothersightinstead,acrowdOfuglySerpents;horroronthemfell,Andhorridsympathie;forwhattheysaw,(540)Theyfeltthemselvsnowchanging;downthirarms,DownfellbothSpearandShield,downtheyasfast,Andthedirehissrenew’d,andthedireformCatchtbyContagion,likeinpunishment,Asinthircrime.Thuswasth’applausetheymeant,Turndtoexplodinghiss,triumphtoshameCastonthemselvesfromthirownmouths.TherestoodAGrovehardby,sprungupwiththisthirchange,Hiswillwhoreignsabove,toaggravateThirpenance,ladenwithfairFruit,likethat(550)WhichgrewinParadise,thebaitofEveUs’dbytheTempter:onthatprospectstrange

Thirearnesteyestheyfix’d,imaginingForoneforbiddenTreeamultitudeNowris’n,toworkthemfurderwoeorshame;Yetparchtwithscaldingthurstandhungerfierce,Thoughtodeludethemsent,couldnotabstain,Butontheyrouldinheaps,anduptheTreesClimbing,satthickerthenthesnakielocksThatcurldMegæra:greedilytheypluck’d(560)TheFrutagefairtosight,likethatwhichgrewNeerthatbituminousLakewhereSodomflam’d;Thismoredelusive,notthetouch,buttasteDeceav’d;theyfondlythinkingtoallayThirappetitewithgust,insteadofFruitChewdbitterAshes,whichth’offendedtasteWithspatteringnoiserejected:ofttheyassayd,Hungerandthirstconstraining,drugdasoft,Withhatefullestdisrelishwrith’dthirjawsWithsootandcindersfill’d;soofttheyfell(570)Intothesameillusion,notasManWhomtheytriumph’doncelapst.Thusweretheyplagu’dAndwornwithFamin,longandceaslesshiss,Tillthirlostshape,permitted,theyresum’d,Yearlyenjoynd,somesay,toundergoThisannualhumblingcertainnumber’ddays,Todashthirpride,andjoyforManseduc’t.Howeversometraditiontheydispers’dAmongtheHeathenofthirpurchasegot,AndFabl’dhowtheSerpent,whomtheycalld(580)

OphionwithEurynome,thewide-EncroachingEveperhaps,hadfirsttheruleOfhighOlympus,thencebySaturndriv’nAndOps,ereyetDictæanJovewasborn.MeanwhileinParadisethehellishpairToosoonarriv’d,Sinthereinpowerbefore,Onceactual,nowinbody,andtodwellHabitualhabitant;behindherDeathClosefollowingpaceforpace,notmountedyetOnhispaleHorse:towhomSinthusbegan.(590)SecondofSatansprung,allconqueringDeath,WhatthinkstthouofourEmpirenow,thoughearndWithtravaildifficult,notbetterfarrThenstilatHelsdarkthresholdtohavesatewatch,Unnam’d,undreaded,andthyselfhalfstarv’d?WhomthustheSin-bornMonsteranswerdsoon.Tomee,whowitheternalFaminpine,AlikeisHell,orParadise,orHeaven,Therebest,wheremostwithravinImaymeet;Whichhere,thoughplenteous,alltoolittleseems(600)TostuffthisMaw,thisvastunhide-boundCorps.Towhomth’incestuousMotherthusrepli’d.ThouthereforeontheseHerbs,andFruits,andFloursFeedfirst,oneachBeastnext,andFish,andFowle,Nohomelymorsels,andwhateverthingTheSitheofTimemowesdown,devourunspar’d,TillIinManresidingthroughtheRace,

Histhoughts,hislooks,words,actionsallinfect,Andseasonhimthylastandsweetestprey.Thissaid,theybothbetookthemseveralwayes,(610)Bothtodestroy,orunimmortalmakeAllkinds,andfordestructiontomatureSoonerorlater;whichth’Almightieseeing,FromhistranscendentSeattheSaintsamong,TothosebrightOrdersutterdthushisvoice.SeewithwhatheattheseDogsofHelladvanceTowasteandhavocyonderWorld,whichISofairandgoodcreated,andhadstillKeptinthatState,hadnotthefollyofManLetinthesewastfulFuries,whoimpute(620)Follytomee,sodoththePrinceofHellAndhisAdherents,thatwithsomucheaseIsufferthemtoenterandpossessAplacesoheav’nly,andconnivingseemTogratifiemyscornfulEnemies,Thatlaugh,asiftransportedwithsomefitOfPassion,Itothemhadquittedall,Atrandomyieldeduptotheirmisrule;AndknownotthatIcall’danddrewthemthitherMyHell-hounds,tolickupthedraffandfilth(630)WhichmanspollutingSinwithtainthathshedOnwhatwaspure,tillcramm’dandgorg’d,nighburstWithsucktandgluttedoffal,atoneslingOfthyvictoriousArm,well-pleasingSon,BothSin,andDeath,andyawningGraveatlast

ThroughChaoshurld,obstructthemouthofHellForever,andsealuphisravenousJawes.ThenHeav’nandEarthrenewdshallbemadepureTosanctitiethatshallreceivenostaine:TillthentheCursepronounc’tonbothprecedes.(640)Heeended,andtheheav’nlyAudienceloudSungHalleluia,asthesoundofSeas,Throughmultitudethatsung:Justarethyways,RighteousarethyDecreesonallthyWorks;Whocanextenuatethee?Next,totheSon,Destin’drestorerofMankind,bywhomNewHeav’nandEarthshalltotheAgesrise,OrdownfromHeav’ndescend.Suchwasthirsong,WhiletheCreatorcallingforthbynameHismightieAngelsgavethemseveralcharge,(650)Assortedbestwithpresentthings.TheSunHadfirsthispreceptsotomove,soshine,AsmightaffecttheEarthwithcoldandheatScarcetollerable,andfromtheNorthtocallDecrepitWinter,fromtheSouthtobringSolstitialsummersheat.TotheblancMooneHerofficetheyprescrib’d,toth’otherfiveThirplanetariemotionsandaspectsInSextile,Square,andTrine,andOpposite,Ofnoxiousefficacie,andwhentojoyne(660)InSynodunbenigne,andtaughtthefixtThirinfluencemalignantwhentoshowre,WhichofthemrisingwiththeSun,orfalling,

Shouldprovetempestuous:TotheWindstheysetThircorners,whenwithblustertoconfoundSea,Aire,andShoar,theThunderwhentorowleWithterrorthroughthedarkAerealHall.SomesayhebidhisAngelsturneascanseThePolesofEarthtwicetendegreesandmoreFromtheSunsAxle;theywithlabourpush’d(670)ObliquetheCentricGlobe:SomsaytheSunWasbidturnReinesfromth’EquinoctialRodeLikedistantbreadthtoTauruswiththeSeav’nAtlantickSisters,andtheSpartanTwinsUptotheTropicCrab;thencedownamaineByLeoandtheVirginandtheScales,AsdeepasCapricorne,tobringinchangeOfSeasonstoeachClime;elsehadtheSpringPerpetualsmil’donEarthwithvernantFlours,EqualinDaysandNights,excepttothose(680)BeyondthePolarCircles;tothemDayHadunbenightedshon,whilethelowSunTorecompencehisdistance,inthirsightHadroundedstillth’Horizon,andnotknownOrEastorWest,whichhadforbidtheSnowFromcoldEstotiland,andSouthasfarrBeneathMagellan.AtthattastedFruitTheSun,asfromThyesteanBanquet,turn’dHiscourseintended;elsehowhadtheWorldInhabited,thoughsinless,morethennow,(690)

Avoidedpinchingcoldandscorchingheate?ThesechangesintheHeav’ns,thoughslow,produc’dLikechangeonSeaandLand,sideralblast,Vapour,andMist,andExhalationhot,CorruptandPestilent:NowfromtheNorthOfNorumbega,andtheSamoedshoarBurstingthirbrazenDungeon,armdwithiceAndsnowandhaileandstormiegustandflaw,BoreasandCæciasandArgestesloudAndThrasciasrendtheWoodsandSeasupturn;(700)Withadverseblastup-turnsthemfromtheSouthNotusandAferblackwiththundrousCloudsFromSerraliona;thwartoftheseasfierceForthrushtheLevantandthePonentWindesEurusandZephirwiththirlateralnoise,Sirocco,andLibecchio.ThusbeganOutragefromlivelessthings;butDiscordfirstDaughterofSin,amongth’irrational,Deathintroduc’dthroughfierceantipathie:BeastnowwithBeastganwar,andFowlewithFowle,(710)AndFishwithFish;tograzetheHerballleaving,Devourdeachother;norstoodmuchinaweOfMan,butfledhim,orwithcount’nancegrimGlar’donhimpassing:thesewerefromwithoutThegrowingmiseries,whichAdamsawAlreadieinpart,thoughhidingloomiestshade,Tosorrowabandond,butworsefeltwithin,Andinatroubl’dSeaofpassiontost,

Thustodisburd’nsoughtwithsadcomplaint.Omiserableofhappie!isthistheend(720)OfthisnewgloriousWorld,andmeesolateTheGloryofthatGlory,whonowbecomAccurstofblessed,hidemefromthefaceOfGod,whomtobeholdwasthenmyhighthOfhappiness:yetwell,ifherewouldendThemiserie,Ideserv’dit,andwouldbeareMyowndeservings;butthiswillnotserve;AllthatIeateordrink,orshallbeget,Ispropagatedcurse.OvoiceonceheardDelightfully,Encreaseandmultiply,(730)Nowdeathtoheare!forwhatcanIencreaseOrmultiplie,butcursesonmyhead?WhoofallAgestosucceed,butfeelingTheevilonhimbroughtbyme,willcurseMyHead,IllfareourAncestorimpure,ForthiswemaythankAdam;buthisthanksShallbetheexecration;sobesidesMineownthatbideuponme,allfrommeeShallwithafiercerefluxonmeeredound,Onmeeasonthirnaturalcenterlight(740)Heavie,thoughinthirplace.OfleetingjoyesOfParadise,deareboughtwithlastingwoes!DidIrequestthee,Maker,frommyClayTomouldmeMan,didIsollicitetheeFromdarknesstopromoteme,orhereplaceInthisdeliciousGarden?asmyWill

Concurdnottomybeing,itwerebutrightAndequaltoreducemetomydust,Desiroustoresigne,andrenderbackAllIreceav’d,unabletoperforme(750)Thytermstoohard,bywhichIwastoholdThegoodIsoughtnot.Tothelossofthat,Sufficientpenaltie,whyhastthouaddedThesenseofendlesswoes?inexplicableThyJusticeseems;yettosaytruth,toolate,Ithuscontest;thenshouldhavebeenrefusdThosetermswhatever,whentheywerepropos’d:Thoudidstacceptthem;wiltthouenjoythegood,Thencaviltheconditions?andthoughGodMadetheewithoutthyleave,whatifthySon(760)Provedisobedient,andreprov’d,retort,Whereforedidstthoubegetme?Isoughtitnot:WouldstthouadmitforhiscontemptoftheeThatproudexcuse?yethimnotthyelection,ButNaturalnecessitybegot.Godmadetheeofchoicehisown,andofhisownToservehim,thyrewardwasofhisgrace,ThypunishmentthenjustlyisathisWill.Beitso,forIsubmit,hisdoomisfair,ThatdustIam,andshalltodustreturne:(770)Owelcomhourwhenever!whydelayesHishandtoexecutewhathisDecreeFixdonthisday?whydoIoverlive,

WhyamImocktwithdeath,andlength’ndoutTodeathlesspain?howgladlywouldImeetMortalitiemysentence,andbeEarthInsensible,howgladwouldlaymedownAsinmyMotherslap?thereIshouldrestAndsleepsecure;hisdreadfulvoicenomoreWouldThunderinmyears,nofearofworse(780)TomeeandtomyofspringwouldtormentmeWithcruelexpectation.YetonedoubtPursuesmestill,leastallIcannotdie,LeastthatpurebreathofLife,theSpiritofManWhichGodinspir’d,cannottogetherperishWiththiscorporealClod;thenintheGrave,Orinsomeotherdismalplace,whoknowsButIshalldiealivingDeath?OthoughtHorrid,iftrue!yetwhy?itwasbutbreathOfLifethatsinn’d;whatdiesbutwhathadlife(790)Andsin?theBodieproperlyhathneither.Allofmethenshalldie:letthisappeaseThedoubt,sincehumanereachnofurtherknows.ForthoughtheLordofallbeinfinite,Ishiswrauthalso?beit,manisnotso,Butmortaldoom’d.HowcanheexerciseWrathwithoutendonManwhomDeathmustend?CanhemakedeathlessDeath?thatweretomakeStrangecontradiction,whichtoGodhimselfImpossibleisheld,asArgument(800)Ofweakness,notofPower.Willhe,drawout,

Forangerssake,finitetoinfiniteInpunishtman,tosatisfiehisrigourSatisfi’dnever;thatweretoextendHisSentencebeyonddustandNaturesLaw,BywhichallCauseselseaccordingstillTothereceptionofthirmatteract,Nottoth’extentofthirownSpheare.ButsayThatDeathbenotonestroak,asIsuppos’d,Bereavingsense,butendlessmiserie(810)Fromthisdayonward,whichIfeelbegunBothinme,andwithoutme,andsolastToperpetuitie;Ayme,thatfearComesthundringbackwithdreadfulrevolutionOnmydefenslesshead;bothDeathandIAmfoundEternal,andincorporateboth,NorIonmypartsingle,inmeeallPosteritiestandscurst:FairPatrimonieThatImustleaveye,Sons;OwereIableTowasteitallmyself,andleaveyenone!(820)SodisinheritedhowwouldyeblessMenowyourcurse!Ah,whyshouldallmankindForonemansfaultthusguiltlessbecondemn’d,Ifguiltless?Butfrommeewhatcanproceed,Butallcorrupt,bothMindandWilldeprav’d,Nottodoonely,buttowillthesameWithme?howcantheythenacquittedstandInsightofGod?HimafterallDisputesForc’tIabsolve:allmyevasionsvain

Andreasonings,thoughthroughMazes,leadmestill(830)Buttomyownconviction:firstandlastOnmee,meeonely,asthesourseandspringOfallcorruption,alltheblamelightsdue;Somightthewrauth.Fondwish!couldstthousupportThatburdenheavierthentheEarthtobearThenalltheWorldmuchheavier,thoughdividedWiththatbadWoman?Thuswhatthoudesir’st,Andwhatthoufearst,alikedestroyesallhopeOfrefuge,andconcludestheemiserableBeyondallpastexampleandfuture,(840)ToSatanonelylikebothcrimeanddoom.OConscience,intowhatAbyssoffearsAndhorrorshastthoudriv’nme;outofwhichIfindnoway,fromdeeptodeeperplung’d!ThusAdamtohimselflamentedloudThroughthestillNight,notnow,aseremanfell,Wholsomandcool,andmild,butwithblackAirAccompanied,withdampsanddreadfulgloom,WhichtohisevilConsciencerepresentedAllthingswithdoubleterror:Ontheground(850)Outstretchthelay,onthecoldground,andoftCurs’dhisCreation,Deathasoftaccus’dOftardieexecution,sincedenounc’tThedayofhisoffence.WhycomesnotDeath,Saidhee,withonethriceacceptablestrokeToendme?ShallTruthfailtokeepherword,

JusticeDivinenothast’ntobejust?ButDeathcomesnotatcall,JusticeDivineMendsnotherslowestpaceforprayersorcries.OWoods,OFountains,Hillocks,DalesandBowrs,(860)WithotherecholateItaughtyourShadesToanswer,andresoundfarrotherSong.WhomthusafflictedwhensadEvebeheld,Desolatewhereshesate,approachingnigh,Softwordstohisfiercepassionsheassay’d:Butherwithsternregardhethusrepell’d.Outofmysight,thouSerpent,thatnamebestBefitstheewithhimleagu’d,thyselfasfalseAndhateful;nothingwants,butthatthyshape,Likehis,andcolourSerpentinemayshew(870)Thyinwardfraud,towarnallCreaturesfromtheeHenceforth;leastthattooheav’nlyform,pretendedTohellishfalshood,snarethem.ButfortheeIhadpersistedhappie,hadnotthyprideAndwandringvanitie,whenlestwassafe,Rejectedmyforewarning,anddisdain’dNottobetrusted,longingtobeseenThoughbytheDevilhimself,himoverweeningToover-reach,butwiththeSerpentmeetingFool’dandbeguil’d,byhimthou,Ibythee,(880)Totrusttheefrommyside,imagin’dwise,Constant,mature,proofagainstallassaults,AndunderstoodnotallwasbutashewRatherthensolidvertu,allbutaRib

Crookedbynature,bent,asnowappears,Moretothepartsinisterfrommedrawn,Wellifthrownout,assupernumerarieTomyjustnumberfound.OwhydidGod,Creatorwise,thatpeopl’dhighestHeav’nWithSpiritsMasculine,createatlast(890)ThisnoveltieonEarth,thisfairdefectOfNature,andnotfilltheWorldatonceWithMenasAngelswithoutFeminine,OrfindsomeotherwaytogenerateMankind?thismischiefhadnotthenbefall’n,Andmorethatshallbefall,innumerableDisturbancesonEarththroughFemalsnares,AndstraightconjunctionwiththisSex:foreitherHenevershallfindoutfitMate,butsuchAssomemisfortunebringshim,ormistake,(900)OrwhomhewishesmostshallseldomgainThroughherperverseness,butshallseehergaindByafarrworse,orifshelove,withheldByParents,orhishappiestchoicetoolateShallmeet,alreadielinktandWedlock-boundToafellAdversarie,hishateorshame:WhichinfinitecalamitieshallcauseToHumanelife,andhousholdpeaceconfound.Headdednot,andfromherturn’d,butEveNotsorepulst,withTearsthatceas’dnotflowing,(910)Andtressesalldisorderd,athisfeetFellhumble,andimbracingthem,besaught

Hispeace,andthusproceededinherplaint.Forsakemenotthus,Adam,witnessHeav’nWhatlovesincere,andreverenceinmyheartIbearethee,andunweetinghaveoffended,Unhappiliedeceav’d;thysuppliantIbeg,andclaspthyknees;bereavemenot,WhereonIlive,thygentlelooks,thyaid,Thycounselinthisuttermostdistress,(920)Myonelystrengthandstay:forlornofthee,WhithershallIbetakeme,wheresubsist?Whileyetwelive,scarseoneshorthourperhaps,Betweenustwolettherebepeace,bothjoyning,Asjoyn’dininjuries,oneenmitieAgainstaFoebydoomexpressassign’dus,ThatcruelSerpent:OnmeexercisenotThyhatredforthismiseriebefall’n,Onmealreadylost,meethenthyselfMoremiserable;bothhavesin’d,butthou(930)AgainstGodonely,IagainstGodandthee,Andtotheplaceofjudgementwillreturn,TherewithmycriesimportuneHeaven,thatallThesentencefromthyheadremov’dmaylightOnme,solecausetotheeofallthiswoe,Meemeeonelyjustobjectofhisire.Sheendedweeping,andherlowlieplight,Immovabletillpeaceobtain’dfromfaultAcknowledg’danddeplor’d,inAdamwraught

Commiseration;soonhisheartrelented(940)Towardsher,hislifesolateandsoledelight,Nowathisfeetsubmissiveindistress,Creaturesofairehisreconcilementseeking,Hiscounselwhomshehaddispleas’d,hisaide;Asonedisarm’d,hisangerallhelost,Andthuswithpeacefulwordsuprais’dhersoon.Unwarie,andtoodesirous,asbefore,Sonowofwhatthouknowstnot,whodesir’stThepunishmentallonthyself;alas,Bearethineownfirst,illabletosustaine(950)Hisfullwrauthwhosethoufeelstasyetlestpart,Andmydispleasurebearstsoill.IfPrayersCouldalterhighDecrees,ItothatplaceWouldspeedbeforethee,andbelouderheard,Thatonmyheadallmightbevisited,ThyfrailtieandinfirmerSexforgiv’n,Tomecommittedandbymeexpos’d.Butrise,letusnomorecontend,norblameEachother,blam’denoughelsewhere,butstriveInofficesofLove,howwemaylight’n(960)Eachothersburdeninourshareofwoe;SincethisdaysDeathdenounc’t,ifoughtIsee,Willprovenosudden,butaslow-pac’tevill,Alongdaysdyingtoaugmentourpaine,AndtoourSeed(OhaplessSeed!)deriv’d.TowhomthusEve,recoveringheart,repli’d.Adam,bysadexperimentIknow

Howlittleweightmywordswiththeecanfinde,Foundsoerroneous,thencebyjusteventFoundsounfortunate;nevertheless,(970)Restor’dbythee,vileasIam,toplaceOfnewacceptance,hopefultoregaineThyLove,thesolecontentmentofmyheartLivingordyingfromtheeIwillnothideWhatthoughtsinmyunquietbrestareris’n,Tendingtosomreliefofourextremes,Orend,thoughsharpandsad,yettolerable,Asinourevils,andofeasierchoice.Ifcareofourdescentperplexusmost,Whichmustbeborntocertainwoe,devourd(980)ByDeathatlast,andmiserableitisTobetootherscauseofmisery.Ourownbegotten,andofourLoinestobringIntothiscursedWorldawofulRace,ThatafterwretchedLifemustbeatlastFoodforsofouleaMonster,inthypowerItlies,yetereConceptiontopreventTheRaceunblest,tobeingyetunbegot.Childlessthouart,Childlessremaine:SoDeathshallbedeceav’dhisglut,andwithustwo(990)Beforc’dtosatisfiehisRav’nousMaw.Butifthoujudgeithardanddifficult,Conversing,looking,loving,toabstainFromLovesdueRites,Nuptialimbracessweet,Andwithdesiretolanguishwithouthope,

BeforethepresentobjectlanguishingWithlikedesire,whichwouldbemiserieAndtormentlessthennoneofwhatwedread,ThenbothourselvesandSeedatoncetofreeFromwhatwefearforboth,letusmakeshort,(1000)LetusseekDeath,orheenotfound,supplyWithourownhandshisOfficeonourselves;Whystandwelongershiveringunderfeares,ThatshewnoendbutDeath,andhavethepower,Ofmanywayestodietheshortestchoosing,Destructionwithdestructiontodestroy.Sheendedheer,orvehementdespaireBrokeofftherest;somuchofDeathherthoughtsHadentertaind,asdi’dherCheekswithpale.ButAdamwithsuchcounselnothingsway’d,(1010)TobetterhopeshismoreattentivemindeLabouringhadrais’d,andthustoEverepli’d.Eve,thycontemptoflifeandpleasureseemsToargueintheesomthingmoresublimeAndexcellentthenwhatthymindecontemnes;Butself-destructionthereforesaught,refutesThatexcellencethoughtinthee,andimplies,Notthycontempt,butanguishandregretForlossoflifeandpleasureoverlov’d.Orifthoucovetdeath,asutmostend(1020)Ofmiserie,sothinkingtoevadeThepenaltiepronounc’t,doubtnotbutGod

Hathwiselierarm’dhisvengefulirethensoTobeforestall’d;muchmoreIfearleastDeathSosnatchtwillnotexemptusfromthepaineWearebydoomtopay;rathersuchactsOfcontumaciewillprovokethehighestTomakedeathinuslive:ThenletusseekSomsaferresolution,whichmethinksIhaveinview,callingtomindewithheed(1030)PartofourSentence,thatthySeedshallbruiseTheSerpentshead;piteousamends,unlessBemeant,whomIconjecture,ourgrandFoeSatan,whointheSerpenthathcontriv’dAgainstusthisdeceit:tocrushhisheadWouldberevengeindeed;whichwillbelostBydeathbroughtonourselves,orchildlessdaysResolv’d,asthouproposest;soourFoeShallscapehispunishmentordain’d,andweeInsteadshalldoubleoursuponourheads.(1040)Nomorebemention’dthenofviolenceAgainstourselves,andwilfulbarrennessThatcutsusofffromhope,andsavoursonelyRancorandpride,impatienceanddespite,ReluctanceagainstGodandhisjustyokeLaidonourNecks.RememberwithwhatmildAndgracioustemperhebothheardandjudg’dWithoutwrauthorreviling;weeexpectedImmediatedissolution,whichwethoughtWasmeantbyDeaththatday,whenlo,tothee(1050)

PainsonelyinChild-bearingwereforetold,Andbringingforth,soonrecompenc’twithjoy,FruitofthyWomb:OnmeetheCurseaslopeGlanc’dontheground,withlabourImustearneMybread;whatharm?Idlenesshadbinworse;Mylabourwillsustainme;andleastColdOrHeatshouldinjureus,histimelycareHathunbesaughtprovided,andhishandsCloath’dusunworthie,pityingwhilehejudg’d;Howmuchmore,ifweprayhim,willhisear(1060)Beopen,andhishearttopitieincline,AndteachusfurtherbywhatmeanstoshunTh’inclementSeasons,Rain,Ice,HailandSnow,WhichnowtheSkiewithvariousFacebeginsToshewusinthisMountain,whiletheWindsBlowmoistandkeen,shatteringthegracefullocksOfthesefairspreadingTrees;whichbidsusseekSombettershroud,sombetterwarmthtocherishOurLimbsbenumm’d,erethisdiurnalStarrLeavecoldtheNight,howwehisgather’dbeams(1070)Reflected,maywithmatterserefoment,OrbycollisionoftwobodiesgrindeTheAirattritetoFire,aslatetheCloudsJustlingorpushtwithWindsrudeinthirshockTinetheslantLightning,whosethwartflamedriv’ndownKindlesthegummiebarkofFirrorPine,Andsendsacomfortableheatfromfarr,WhichmightsupplietheSun:suchFiretouse,

AndwhatmayelseberemedieorcureToevilswhichourownmisdeedshavewrought,(1080)Heewillinstructuspraying,andofGraceBeseechinghim,soasweneednotfearTopasscommodiouslythislife,sustain’dByhimwithmanycomforts,tillweendIndust,ourfinalrestandnativehome.Whatbettercanwedo,thentotheplaceRepairingwherehejudg’dus,prostratefallBeforehimreverent,andthereconfessHumblyourfaults,andpardonbeg,withtearsWateringtheground,andwithoursighstheAir(1090)Frequenting,sentfromheartscontrite,insignOfsorrowunfeign’d,andhumiliationmeek.UndoubtedlyhewillrelentandturnFromhisdispleasure;inwhoselookserene,Whenangrymostheseem’dandmostsevere,Whatelsebutfavor,grace,andmercieshon?SospakeourFatherpenitent,norEveFeltlessremorse:theyforthwithtotheplaceRepairingwherehejudg’dthemprostratefellBeforehimreverent,andbothconfess’d(1100)Humblythirfaults,andpardonbeg’d,withtearsWateringtheground,andwiththirsighstheAirFrequenting,sentfromheartscontrite,insignOfsorrowunfeign’d,andhumiliationmeek.

TheEndoftheTenthBook.

Book XI

TheArgument

TheSonof GodpresentstohisFatherthePrayersof ourfirstParentsnowrepenting,and

intercedes for them: God accepts them, but declares that they must no longer abide in

Paradise;sendsMichaelwithaBandofCherubimtodispossessthem;butfirsttorevealtoAdamfuturethings:Michaelscomingdown.AdamshewstoEvecertainominoussigns; he discernsMichaelsapproach, goes out to meet him: the Angeldenouncesthirdeparture.Eve’sLamentation.Adampleads,butsubmits:TheAngelleadshimuptoahighHill,setsbeforehiminvisionwhatshallhapp’ntilltheFlood.

ThustheyinlowliestplightrepentantstoodPraying,forfromtheMercie-seatabovePrevenientGracedescendinghadremov’dThestoniefromthirhearts,andmadenewfleshRegeneratgrowinstead,thatsighsnowbreath’dUnutterable,whichtheSpiritofprayerInspir’d,andwing’dforHeav’nwithspeedierflightThenloudestOratorie:yetthirportNotofmeansuiters,norimportantlessSeem’dthirPetition,thenwhenth’ancientPair(10)InFablesold,lessancientyetthenthese,DeucalionandchastePyrrhatorestore

TheRaceofMankinddrownd,beforetheShrineOfThemisstooddevout.ToHeav’nthirprayersFlewup,normissdtheway,byenviouswindesBlow’nvagabondorfrustrate:intheypassdDimentionlessthroughHeav’nlydores;thencladWithincense,wheretheGoldenAltarfum’d,BythirgreatIntercessor,cameinsightBeforetheFathersThrone:ThemthegladSon(20)Presenting,thustointercedebegan.SeeFather,whatfirstfruitsonEartharesprungFromthyimplantedGraceinMan,theseSighsAndPrayers,whichinthisGoldenCenser,mixtWithIncense,IthyPriestbeforetheebring,FruitsofmorepleasingsavourfromthyseedSow’nwithcontritioninhisheart,thenthoseWhichhisownhandmanuringalltheTreesOfParadisecouldhaveproduc’t,erefall’nFrominnocence.Nowthereforebendthineeare(30)Tosupplication,hearehissighsthoughmute;Unskilfulwithwhatwordstopray,letmee,Interpretforhim,meehisAdvocateAndpropitiation,allhisworksonmeeGoodornotgoodingraft,myMeritthoseShallperfet,andforthesemyDeathshallpay.Acceptme,andinmeefromthesereceaveThesmellofpeacetowardMankinde,lethimliveBeforetheereconcil’d,atleasthisdaysNumberd,thoughsad,tillDeath,hisdoom(whichI(40)

Tomitigatethusplead,nottoreverse)Tobetterlifeshallyeeldhim,wherewithmeeAllmyredeemdmaydwellinjoyandbliss,MadeonewithmeasIwiththeeamone.TowhomtheFather,withoutCloud,serene.AllthyrequestforMan,acceptedSon,Obtain,allthyrequestwasmyDecree:ButlongerinthatParadisetodwell,TheLawIgavetoNaturehimforbids:ThosepureimmortalElementsthatknow(50)Nogross,nounharmoneousmixturefoule,Ejecthimtaintednow,andpurgehimoffAsadistemper,grosstoaireasgross,Andmortalfood,asmaydisposehimbestFordissolutionwroughtbySin,thatfirstDistemperdallthings,andofincorruptCorrupted.IatfirstwithtwofairgiftsCreatedhimendowd,withHappinessAndImmortalitie:thatfondlylost,Thisotherserv’dbuttoeternizewoe;(60)TillIprovidedDeath;soDeathbecomesHisfinalremedie,andafterLifeTri’dinsharptribulation,andrefin’dByFaithandfaithfulworks,tosecondLife,Wak’tintherenovationofthejust,ResigneshimupwithHeav’nandEarthrenewd.ButletuscalltoSynodalltheBlestThroughHeav’nswidebounds;fromthemIwillnothide

Myjudgments,howwithMankindIproceed,AshowwithpeccantAngelslatetheysaw;(70)Andinthirstate,thoughfirm,stoodmoreconfirmd.Heended,andtheSongavesignalhighTothebrightMinisterthatwatchd,heeblewHisTrumpet,heardinOrebsinceperhapsWhenGoddescended,andperhapsoncemoreTosoundatgeneralDoom.Th’AngelicblastFilldalltheRegions:fromthirblissfulBowrsOfAmarantinShade,FountainorSpring,BythewatersofLife,whereeretheysateInfellowshipsofjoy:theSonsofLight(80)Hasted,resortingtotheSummonshigh,AndtookthirSeats;tillfromhisThronesupreamTh’Almightythuspronounc’dhissovranWill.OSons,likeoneofusManisbecomeToknowbothGoodandEvil,sincehistasteOfthatdefendedFruit;butlethimboastHisknowledgeofGoodlost,andEvilgot,Happier,haditsuffic’dhimtohaveknownGoodbyitself,andEvilnotatall.Hesorrowsnow,repents,andprayescontrite,(90)Mymotionsinhim,longerthentheymove,HisheartIknow,howvariableandvainSelf-left.LeastthereforehisnowbolderhandReachalsooftheTreeofLife,andeat,Andliveforever,dreamatleasttolive

Forever,toremovehimIdecree,AndsendhimfromtheGardenforthtoTillTheGroundwhencehewastaken,fittersoile.Michael,thismybehesthavethouincharge,TaketotheefromamongtheCherubim(100)ThychoiceofflamingWarriours,leasttheFiendOrinbehalfofMan,ortoinvadeVacantpossessionsomnewtroubleraise:Hastthee,andfromtheParadiseofGodWithoutremorsedriveoutthesinfulPair,Fromhallowdgroundth’unholie,anddenounceTothemandtothirProgeniefromthencePerpetualbanishment.YetleasttheyfaintAtthesadSentencerigorouslyurg’d,ForIbeholdthemsoft’ndandwithtears(110)Bewailingthirexcess,allterrorhide.Ifpatientlythybiddingtheyobey,Dismissthemnotdisconsolate;revealeToAdamwhatshallcomeinfuturedayes,AsIshalltheeenlighten,intermixMyCov’nantinthewomansseedrenewd;Sosendthemforth,thoughsorrowing,yetinpeace:AndontheEastsideoftheGardenplace,WhereentranceupfromEdeneasiestclimbes,Cherubicwatch,andofaSwordtheflame(120)Widewaving,allapproachfarrofftofright,AndguardallpassagetotheTreeofLife:LeastParadiseareceptacleprove

ToSpiritsfoule,andallmyTreesthirprey,Withwhosestol’nFruitManoncemoretodelude.Heceas’d;andth’ArchangelicPowerprepar’dForswiftdescent,withhimtheCohortbrightOfwatchfulCherubim;fourfaceseachHad,likeadoubleJanus,allthirshapeSpangl’dwitheyesmorenumerousthenthose(130)OfArgus,andmorewakefulthentodrouze,Charm’dwithArcadianPipe,thePastoralReedOfHermes,orhisopiateRod.MeanwhileToresalutetheWorldwithsacredLightLeucotheawak’d,andwithfreshdewsimbalmdTheEarth,whenAdamandfirstMatronEveHadendednowthirOrisons,andfound,Strengthaddedfromabove,newhopetospringOutofdespaire,joy,butwithfearyetlinkt;WhichthustoEvehiswelcomewordsrenewd.(140)Eve,easilymayFaithadmit,thatallThegoodwhichweenjoy,fromHeav’ndescends;ButthatfromusoughtshouldascendtoHeav’nSoprevalentastoconcernethemindOfGodhigh-blest,ortoinclinehiswill,Hardtobeliefmayseem;yetthiswillPrayer,Oroneshortsighofhumanebreath,up-borneEv’ntotheSeatofGod.ForsinceIsaughtByPrayerth’offendedDeitietoappease,Kneel’dandbeforehimhumbl’dallmyheart,(150)MethoughtIsawhimplacableandmild,

Bendinghiseare;perswasioninmegrewThatIwasheardwithfavour;peacereturndHometomybrest,andtomymemorieHispromise,thatthySeedshallbruiseourFoe;Whichthennotmindedindismay,yetnowAssuresmethatthebitternessofdeathIspast,andweshalllive.WhenceHailetothee,Everightlycall’d,MotherofallMankind,Motherofallthingsliving,sincebythee(160)Manistolive,andallthingsliveforMan.TowhomthusEvewithsaddemeanourmeek.IllworthieIsuchtitleshouldbelongTometransgressour,whofortheeordaindAhelp,becamethysnare;tomeereproachRatherbelongs,distrustandalldispraise:ButinfiniteinpardonwasmyJudge,ThatIwhofirstbroughtDeathonall,amgrac’tThesourseoflife;nextfavourablethou,Whohighlythustoentitlemevoutsaf’st,(170)Farrothernamedeserving.ButtheFieldTolabourcallsusnowwithsweatimpos’d,ThoughaftersleeplessNight;forseetheMorn,Allunconcern’dwithourunrest,beginsHerrosieprogresssmiling;letusforth,Ineverfromthysidehenceforthtostray,Wherereourdaysworklies,thoughnowenjoindLaborious,tilldaydroop;whileherewedwell,

WhatcanbetoilsominthesepleasantWalkes?Hereletuslive,thoughinfall’nstate,content.(180)Sospake,sowish’dmuch-humbl’dEve,butFateSubscrib’dnot;NaturefirstgaveSigns,imprestOnBird,Beast,Aire,Airesuddenlyeclips’dAftershortblushofMorn;nighinhersightTheBirdofJove,stooptfromhisaerietour,TwoBirdsofgayestplumebeforehimdrove:DownfromaHilltheBeastthatreignsinWoods,Firsthunterthen,pursu’dagentlebrace,GoodliestofalltheForrest,HartandHinde;Directtoth’EasternGatewasbentthirflight.(190)Adamobserv’d,andwithhisEyethechasePursuing,notunmov’dtoEvethusspake.OEve,somefurderchangeawaitsusnigh,WhichHeav’nbythesemutesignsinNatureshewsForerunnersofhispurpose,ortowarnUshaplytoosecureofourdischargeFrompenaltie,becausefromdeathreleastSomedays;howlong,andwhattillthenourlife,Whoknows,ormorethenthis,thatwearedust,Andthithermustreturnandbenomore.(200)WhyelsethisdoubleobjectinoursightOfflightpursu’dinth’AirandorethegroundOnewaytheself-samehour?whyintheEastDarknessereDayesmid-course,andMorninglightMoreorientinyonWesternCloudthatdrawsO’retheblewFirmamentaradiantwhite,

Andslowdescends,withsomthingheav’nlyfraught.Heerr’dnot,forbythistheheav’nlyBandsDownfromaSkieofJasperlightednowInParadise,andonaHillmadealt,(210)AgloriousApparition,hadnotdoubtAndcarnalfearthatdaydimm’dAdamseye.Notthatmoreglorious,whentheAngelsmetJacobinMahanaim,wherehesawThefieldPavilion’dwithhisGuardiansbright;NorthatwhichontheflamingMountappeerdInDothan,cover’dwithaCampofFire,AgainsttheSyrianKing,whotosurprizeOneman,Assassin-likehadleviedWarr,Warrunproclam’d.ThePrincelyHierarch(220)Inthirbrightstand,therelefthisPowerstoseisePossessionoftheGarden;heealone,TofindewhereAdamshelterd,tookhisway,Notunperceav’dofAdam,whotoEve,WhilethegreatVisitantapproachd,thusspake.Eve,nowexpectgreattidings,whichperhapsOfuswillsoondetermin,orimposeNewLawstobeobserv’d;forIdescrieFromyonderblazingCloudthatveilstheHillOneoftheheav’nlyHost,andbyhisGate(230)Noneofthemeanest,somegreatPotentateOroftheThronesabove,suchMajestieInvestshimcoming;yetnotterrible,ThatIshouldfear,norsociablymild,

AsRaphael,thatIshouldmuchconfide,Butsolemnandsublime,whomnottooffend,WithreverenceImustmeet,andthouretire.Heended;andth’Arch-Angelsoondrewnigh,NotinhisshapeCelestial,butasManCladtomeetMan;overhislucidArmes(240)AmilitarieVestofpurpleflowdLivelierthenMelibœan,orthegraineOfSarra,wornbyKingsandHero’soldIntimeofTruce;Irishaddiptthewooff;HisstarrieHelmeunbuckl’dshew’dhimprimeInManhoodwhereYouthended;byhissideAsinaglisteringZodiachungtheSword,Satansdiredread,andinhishandtheSpear.Adambowdlow,heeKinglyfromhisStateInclin’dnot,buthiscomingthusdeclar’d.(250)Adam,Heav’nshighbehestnoPrefaceneeds:SufficientthatthyPrayersareheard,andDeath,Thenduebysentencewhenthoudidsttransgress,DefeatedofhisseisuremanydayesGiv’ntheeofGrace,whereinthoumay’strepent,AndonebadactwithmanydeedswelldoneMaystcover:wellmaythenthyLordappeas’dRedeemtheequitefromDeathsrapaciousclaime;ButlongerinthisParadisetodwellPermitsnot;toremovetheeIamcome,(260)AndsendtheefromtheGardenforthtotill

Thegroundwhencethouwasttak’n,fitterSoile.Headdednot,forAdamatthenewesHeart-strookwithchillinggripeofsorrowstood,Thatallhissensesbound;Eve,whounseenYetallhadheard,withaudiblelamentDiscover’dsoontheplaceofherretire.Ounexspectedstroke,worsethenofDeath!MustIthusleavetheeParadise?thusleaveTheeNativeSoile,thesehappieWalksandShades,(270)FithauntofGods?whereIhadhopetospend,Quietthoughsad,therespitofthatdayThatmustbemortaltousboth.Oflours,ThatneverwillinotherClimategrow,Myearlyvisitation,andmylastAtEev’n,whichIbredupwithtenderhandFromthefirstop’ningbud,andgaveyeNames,WhonowshallreareyetotheSun,orrankeYourTribes,andwaterfromth’ambrosialFount?TheelastlynuptialBowre,bymeeadornd(280)Withwhattosightorsmellwassweet;fromtheeHowshallIpart,andwhitherwanderdownIntoalowerWorld,tothisobscureAndwilde,howshallwebreathinotherAireLesspure,accustomdtoimmortalFruits?WhomthustheAngelinterruptedmilde.LamentnotEve,butpatientlyresigneWhatjustlythouhastlost;norsetthyheart,Thusoverfond,onthatwhichisnotthine;

Thygoingisnotlonely,withtheegoes(290)ThyHusband,himtofollowthouartbound;Whereheabides,thinktherethynativesoile.AdambythisfromthecoldsuddendampRecovering,andhisscatterdspiritsreturnd,ToMichaelthushishumblewordsaddressd.Celestial,whetheramongtheThrones,ornam’dOfthemtheHighest,forsuchofshapemayseemPrinceabovePrinces,gentlyhastthoutouldThymessage,whichmightelseintellingwound,Andinperformingendus;whatbesides(300)OfsorrowanddejectionanddespairOurfrailtiecansustain,thytidingsbring,Departurefromthishappyplace,oursweetRecess,andonelyconsolationleftFamiliartooureyes,allplaceselseInhospitableappeeranddesolate,Norknowingusnorknown:andifbyprayerIncessantIcouldhopetochangethewillOfhimwhoallthingscan,IwouldnotceaseToweariehimwithmyassiduouscries:(310)ButprayeragainsthisabsoluteDecreeNomoreavailesthenbreathagainstthewinde,Blownstiflingbackonhimthatbreathsitforth:ThereforetohisgreatbiddingIsubmit.Thismostafflictsme,thatdepartinghence,AsfromhisfaceIshallbehid,deprivdHisblessedcount’nance;hereIcouldfrequent,

Withworship,placebyplacewherehevoutsaf’dPresenceDivine,andtomySonsrelate;OnthisMountheappeerd,underthisTree(320)Stoodvisible,amongthesePineshisvoiceIheard,herewithhimatthisFountaintalk’d:SomanygratefulAltarsIwouldreareOfgrassieTerfe,andpileupeveryStoneOflustrefromthebrook,inmemorie,OrmonumenttoAges,andthereonOffersweetsmellingGummsandFruitsandFlours:InyondernetherWorldwhereshallIseekHisbrightappearances,orfootsteptrace?ForthoughIfledhimangrie,yetrecall’d(330)TolifeprolongdandpromisdRace,InowGladlybeholdthoughbuthisutmostskirtsOfglory,andfarroffhisstepsadore.TowhomthusMichaelwithregardbenigne.Adam,thouknow’stHeav’nhis,andalltheEarth,NotthisRockonely;hisOmnipresencefillsLand,Sea,andAire,andeverykindethatlives,Fomentedbyhisvirtualpowerandwarmd:Allth’Earthhegavetheetopossessandrule,Nodespicablegift;surmisenotthen(340)Hispresencetothesenarrowboundsconfin’dOfParadiseorEden:thishadbeenPerhapsthyCapitalSeate,fromwhencehadspredAllgenerations,andhadhithercome

Fromalltheendsofth’Earth,tocelebrateAndreverencetheethirgreatProgenitor.Butthispræeminencethouhastlost,broughtdownTodwelloneevengroundnowwiththySons:YetdoubtnotbutinVallieandinPlaineGodisashere,andwillbefoundalike(350)Present,andofhispresencemanyasigneStillfollowingthee,stillcompassingtheeroundWithgoodnessandpaternalLove,hisFaceExpress,andofhisstepsthetrackDivine.Whichthatthoumaystbeleeve,andbeconfirmd,Erethoufromhencedepart,knowIamsentToshewtheewhatshallcomeinfuturedayesTotheeandtothyOfspring;goodwithbadExpecttohear,supernalGracecontendingWithsinfulnessofMen;therebytolearn(360)Truepatience,andtotemperjoywithfearAndpioussorrow,equallyenur’dBymoderationeitherstatetobeare,Prosperousoradverse:soshaltthouleadSafestthylife,andbestprepar’dendureThymortalpassagewhenitcomes.AscendThisHill;letEve(forIhavedrenchthereyes)Heresleepbelowwhilethoutoforesightwak’st,Asoncethouslepst,whileSheetolifewasformd.TowhomthusAdamgratefullyrepli’d.(370)Ascend,Ifollowthee,safeGuide,thepathThoulead’stme,andtothehandofHeav’nsubmit,

Howeverchast’ning,totheevilturneMyobviousbreast,armingtoovercomBysuffering,andearnerestfromlabourwon,IfsoImayattain.SobothascendIntheVisionsofGod:ItwasaHillOfParadisethehighest,fromwhosetopTheHemisphereofEarthincleerestKenStretchtouttoamplestreachofprospectlay.(380)NothigherthatHillnorwiderlookinground,WhereonfordifferentcausetheTemptersetOursecondAdamintheWilderness,ToshewhimallEarthsKingdomesandthirGlory.HisEyemighttherecommandwhereverstoodCityofoldormodernFame,theSeatOfmightiestEmpire,fromthedestindWallsOfCambalu,seatofCathaianCanAndSamarchandbyOxus,TemirsThrone,ToPaquinofSinæanKings,andthence(390)ToAgraandLahorofgreatMogul

DowntothegoldenChersonese,orwhereThePersianinEcbatansate,orsinceInHispahan,orwheretheRussianKsarInMosco,ortheSultaninBizance,Turchestan-born;norcouldhiseyenotkenTh’EmpireofNegustohisutmostPortErcocoandthelessMaritineKingsMombaza,andQuiloa,andMelind,AndSofalathoughtOphir,totheRealme(400)

OfCongo,andAngolafardestSouth;OrthencefromNigerFloodtoAtlasMountTheKingdomsofAlmansor,FezandSus,MaroccoandAlgiers,andTremisen;OnEuropethence,andwhereRomewastoswayTheWorld:inSpiritperhapshealsosawRichMexicotheseatofMotezume,AndCuscoinPeru,thericherseatOfAtabalipa,andyetunspoil’dGuiana,whosegreatCitieGeryonsSons(410)CallElDorado:buttonoblersightsMichaelfromAdamseyestheFilmeremov’dWhichthatfalseFruitthatpromis’dclearersightHadbred;thenpurg’dwithEuphrasieandRueThevisualNerve,forhehadmuchtosee;AndfromtheWellofLifethreedropsinstill’d.SodeepthepoweroftheseIngredientspierc’d,Eevntotheinmostseatofmentalsight,ThatAdamnowenforc’ttoclosehiseyes,SunkdownandallhisSpiritsbecameintranst:(420)ButhimthegentleAngelbythehandSoonrais’d,andhisattentionthusrecall’d.Adam,nowopethineeyes,andfirstbeholdTh’effectswhichthyoriginalcrimehathwroughtInsometospringfromthee,whonevertouch’dTh’exceptedTree,norwiththeSnakeconspir’d,Norsinn’dthysin,yetfromthatsinderive

Corruptiontobringforthmoreviolentdeeds.Hiseyesheop’nd,andbeheldafield,Partarableandtilth,whereonwereSheaves(430)Newreapt,theotherpartsheep-walksandfoulds;Ith’midstanAltarastheLand-markstoodRustic,ofgrassiesord;thitheranonAsweatieReaperfromhisTillagebroughtFirstFruits,thegreenEare,andtheyellowSheaf,Uncull’d,ascametohand;aShepherdnextMoremeekcamewiththeFirstlingsofhisFlockChoicestandbest;thensacrificing,laidTheInwardsandthirFat,withIncensestrew’d,OnthecleftWood,andalldueRitesperform’d.(440)HisOffringsoonpropitiousFirefromHeav’nConsum’dwithnimbleglance,andgratefulsteame;Theothersnot,forhiswasnotsincere;Whereatheeinlierag’d,andastheytalk’d,SmotehimintotheMidriffwithastoneThatbeatoutlife;hefell,anddeadlypaleGroandouthisSoulwithgushingbloudeffus’d.MuchatthatsightwasAdaminhisheartDismai’d,andthusinhastetoth’Angelcri’d.OTeacher,somegreatmischiefhathbefall’n(450)Tothatmeekman,whowellhadsacrific’d;IsPietiethusandpureDevotionpaid?T’whomMichaelthus,heealsomov’d,repli’d.ThesetwoareBrethren,Adam,andtocomeOutofthyloyns;th’unjustthejusthathslain,

ForenviethathisBrothersOfferingfoundFromHeav’nacceptance;butthebloodieFactWillbeaveng’d,andth’othersFaithapprov’dLoosenoreward,thoughherethouseehimdie,Rowlingindustandgore.TowhichourSire.(460)Alas,bothforthedeedandforthecause!ButhaveInowseenDeath?IsthisthewayImustreturntonativedust?OsightOfterrour,foulanduglytobehold,Horridtothink,howhorribletofeel!TowhomthusMichael.DeaththouhastseenInhisfirstshapeonman;butmanyshapesOfDeath,andmanyarethewayesthatleadTohisgrimCave,alldismal;yettosenseMoreterribleatth’entrancethenwithin.(470)Some,asthousaw’st,byviolentstrokeshalldie,ByFire,Flood,Famin,byIntemperancemoreInMeatsandDrinks,whichontheEarthshalbringDiseasesdire,ofwhichamonstrouscrewBeforetheeshallappear;thatthoumaystknowWhatmiserieth’inabstinenceofEveShallbringonmen.ImmediatelyaplaceBeforehiseyesappeard,sad,noysom,dark,ALazar-houseitseemd,whereinwerelaidNumbersofalldiseas’d,allmaladies(480)OfgastlySpasm,orrackingtorture,qualmesOfheart-sickAgonie,allfeavorouskinds,Convulsions,Epilepsies,fierceCatarrhs,

IntestinStoneandUlcer,Colicpangs,DæmoniacPhrenzie,moapingMelancholieAndMoon-struckmadness,piningAtrophieMarasmusandwide-wastingPestilence,Dropsies,andAsthma’s,andJoint-rackingRheums.Direwasthetossing,deepthegroans,despairTendedthesickbusiestfromCouchtoCouch;(490)AndoverthemtriumphantDeathhisDartShook,butdelaidtostrike,thoughoftinvok’tWithvows,asthirchiefgood,andfinalhope.SightsodeformwhatheartofRockcouldlongDrie-ey’dbehold?Adamcouldnot,butwept,ThoughnotofWomanborn;compassionquell’dHisbestofMan,andgavehimuptotearsAspace,tillfirmerthoughtsrestraindexcess,Andscarcerecoveringwordshisplaintrenew’d.OmiserableMankind,towhatfall(500)Degraded,towhatwretchedstatereserv’d!Betterendheerunborn.Whyislifegiv’nTobethuswrestedfromus?ratherwhyObtrudedonusthus?whoifweknewWhatwereceive,wouldeithernotacceptLifeoffer’d,orsoonbegtolayitdown,Gladtobesodismistinpeace.CanthusTh’ImageofGodinmancreatedonceSogoodlyanderect,thoughfaultiesince,Tosuchunsightlysufferingsbedebas’t(510)

Underinhumanpains?WhyshouldnotMan,RetainingstillDivinesimilitudeInpart,fromsuchdeformitiesbefree,AndforhisMakersImagesakeexempt?ThirMakersImage,answerdMichael,thenForsookthem,whenthemselvestheyvillifi’dToserveungovern’dappetite,andtookHisImagewhomtheyserv’d,abrutishvice,InductivemainlytothesinofEve.Thereforesoabjectisthirpunishment,(520)DisfiguringnotGodslikeness,butthirown,Orifhislikeness,bythemselvesdefac’tWhiletheypervertpureNatureshealthfulrulesToloathsomsickness,worthily,sincetheyGodsImagedidnotreverenceinthemselves.Iyielditjust,saidAdam,andsubmit.Butisthereyetnootherway,besidesThesepainfulpassages,howwemaycomeToDeath,andmixwithourconnaturaldust?Thereis,saidMichael,ifthouwellobserve(530)Theruleofnottoomuch,bytemperancetaughtInwhatthoueatstanddrinkst,seekingfromthenceDuenourishment,notgluttonousdelight,Tillmanyyearsoverthyheadreturn:Somaistthoulive,tilllikeripeFruitthoudropIntothyMotherslap,orbewitheaseGatherd,notharshlypluckt,fordeathmature:Thisisoldage;butthenthoumustoutlive

Thyyouth,thystrength,thybeauty,whichwillchangeTowitherdweakandgray;thySensesthen(540)Obtuse,alltasteofpleasuremustforgoe,Towhatthouhast,andfortheAireofyouthHopefulandcheerful,inthybloodwillreigneAmelanchollydampofcoldanddryTowaighthyspiritsdown,andlastconsumeTheBalmeofLife.TowhomourAncestor.HenceforthIflienotDeath,norwouldprolongLifemuch,bentratherhowImaybequitFairestandeasiestofthiscombrouscharge,WhichImustkeeptillmyappointedday(550)Ofrendringup,andpatientlyattendMydissolution.Michaelrepli’d.NorlovethyLife,norhate;butwhatthoulivstLivewell,howlongorshortpermittoHeav’n:Andnowpreparetheeforanothersight.HelookdandsawaspaciousPlaine,whereonWereTentsofvarioushue;bysomewereherdsOfCattelgrazing:others,whencethesoundOfInstrumentsthatmademelodiouschimeWasheard,ofHarpandOrgan;andwhomoovd(560)Thirstopsandchordswasseen:hisvolanttouchInstinctthroughallproportionslowandhighFledandpursu’dtransversetheresonantfugue.InotherpartstoodonewhoattheForgeLabouring,twomassieclodsofIronandBrassHadmelted(whetherfoundwherecasualfire

HadwastedwoodsonMountainorinVale,DowntotheveinsofEarth,thenceglidinghotTosomCavesmouth,orwhetherwashtbystreamFromunderground)theliquidOrehedreind(570)Intofitmouldsprepar’d;fromwhichheformdFirsthisownTooles;then,whatmightelsebewroughtFusilorgrav’ninmettle.Afterthese,ButonthehethersideadifferentsortFromthehighneighbouringHills,whichwasthirSeat,DowntothePlaindescended:bythirguiseJustmentheyseemd,andallthirstudybentToworshipGodaright,andknowhisworksNothid,northosethingslostwhichmightpreserveFreedomandPeacetomen:theyonthePlain(580)Longhadnotwalkt,whenfromtheTentsbeholdABeavieoffairWomen,richlygayInGemsandwantondress;totheHarptheysungSoftamorousDitties,andindancecameon:TheMenthoughgrave,ey’dthem,andletthireyesRovewithoutrein,tillintheamorousNetFastcaught,theylik’d,andeachhislikingchose;Andnowoflovetheytreattillth’EevningStarLovesHarbingerappeerd;thenallinheatTheylighttheNuptialTorch,andbidinvoke(590)Hymen,thenfirsttomarriageRitesinvok’t;WithFeastandMusickalltheTentsresound.Suchhappyinterviewandfairevent

Ofloveandyouthnotlost,Songs,Garlands,Flours,AndcharmingSymphoniesattach’dtheheartOfAdam,soonenclin’dtoadmitdelight,ThebentofNature;whichhethusexpress’d.Trueopenerofmineeyes,primeAngelblest,MuchbetterseemsthisVision,andmorehopeOfpeacefuldayesportends,thenthosetwopast;(600)Thosewereofhateanddeath,orpainmuchworse,HereNatureseemsfulfilldinallherends.TowhomthusMichael.JudgnotwhatisbestBypleasure,thoughtoNatureseemingmeet,Created,asthouart,tonoblerendHolieandpure,conformitiedivine.ThoseTentsthousawstsopleasant,weretheTentsOfwickedness,whereinshalldwellhisRaceWhoslewhisBrother;studioustheyappereOfArtsthatpolishLife,Inventersrare,(610)UnmindfulofthirMaker,thoughhisSpiritTaughtthem,buttheyhisgiftsacknowledg’dnone.Yettheyabeauteousofspringshallbeget;ForthatfairfemalTroopthousawst,thatseemdOfGoddesses,soblithe,sosmooth,sogay,YetemptyofallgoodwhereinconsistsWomansdomestichonourandchiefpraise;BredonelyandcompletedtothetasteOflustfulappetence,tosing,todance,Todress,andtrouletheTongue,androuletheEye.(620)TothesethatsoberRaceofMen,whoselives

Religioustitl’dthemtheSonsofGod,Shallyieldupallthirvertue,allthirfameIgnobly,tothetrainesandtothesmilesOfthesefairAtheists,andnowswiminjoy,(Erelongtoswimatlarg)andlaugh;forwhichTheworlderelongaworldoftearsmustweepe.TowhomthusAdamofshortjoybereft.Opittieandshame,thattheywhotolivewellEnterdsofaire,shouldturnasidetotread(630)Pathsindirect,orinthemidwayfaint!ButstillIseethetenorofManswoeHoldsonthesame,fromWomantobegin.FromManseffeminateslacknessitbegins,Saidth’Angel,whoshouldbetterholdhisplaceBywisdome,andsuperiourgiftsreceavd.ButnowpreparetheeforanotherScene.HelookdandsawwideTerritoriespredBeforehim,Towns,andruralworksbetween,CitiesofMenwithloftyGatesandTowrs,(640)ConcoursinArms,fierceFacesthreatningWarr,GiantsofmightieBone,andbouldemprise;PartwieldthirArms,partcourbthefoamingSteed,SingleorinArrayofBattelrang’dBothHorseandFoot,noridelymustringstood;OnewayaBandselectfromforagedrivesAherdofBeeves,faireOxenandfaireKineFromafatMeddowground;orfleecyFlock,EwesandthirbleatingLambsoverthePlaine,

ThirBootie;scarcewithLifetheShepherdsflye,(650)Butcallinaide,whichtacksabloodyFray;WithcruelTournamenttheSquadronsjoine;WhereCattlepastur’dlate,nowscatterdliesWithCarcassesandArmsth’ensanguindFieldDeserted:OtherstoaCitiestrongLaySeige,encampt;byBatterie,Scale,andMine,Assaulting;othersfromtheWalldefendWithDartandJav’lin,StonesandsulfurousFire;Oneachhandslaughterandgiganticdeeds.Inotherpartthescepter’dHaraldscall(660)ToCouncilintheCitieGates:anonGrey-headedmenandgrave,withWarrioursmixt,Assemble,andHaranguesareheard,butsoonInfactiousopposition,tillatlastOfmiddleAgeonerising,eminentInwisedeport,spakemuchofRightandWrong,OfJustice,ofReligion,TruthandPeace,AndJudgementfromabove:himoldandyoungExploded,andhadseiz’dwithviolenthands,HadnotaClouddescendingsnatch’dhimthence(670)Unseenamidthethrong:soviolenceProceeded,andOppression,andSword-LawThroughallthePlain,andrefugenonewasfound.Adamwasallintears,andtohisguideLamentingturndfullsad;Owhatarethese,DeathsMinisters,notMen,whothusdealDeath

Inhumanlytomen,andmultiplyTenthousandfouldthesinofhimwhoslewHisBrother;forofwhomsuchmassacherMaketheybutofthirBrethren,menofmen?(680)ButwhowasthatJustMan,whomhadnotHeav’nRescu’d,hadinhisRighteousnessbinlost?TowhomthusMichael;ThesearetheproductOfthoseill-matedMarriagesthousawst;Wheregoodwithbadwerematcht,whoofthemselvesAbhortojoyn;andbyimprudencemixt,ProduceprodigiousBirthsofbodieormind.SuchweretheseGiants,menofhighrenown;ForinthosedayesMightonelyshallbeadmir’d,AndValourandHeroicVertucall’d;(690)ToovercomeinBattle,andsubdueNations,andbringhomespoilswithinfiniteMan-slaughter,shallbeheldthehighestpitchOfhumanGlorie,andforGloriedoneOftriumph,tobestyl’dgreatConquerours,PatronsofMankind,Gods,andSonsofGods,Destroyersrightliercall’dandPlaguesofmen.ThusFameshallbeachiev’d,renownonEarth,Andwhatmostmeritsfameinsilencehid.Butheetheseventhfromthee,whomthoubeheldst(700)TheonelyrighteousinaWorldperverse,Andthereforehated,thereforesobesetWithFoesfordaringsingletobejust,AndutterodiousTruth,thatGodwouldcome

TojudgethemwithhisSaints:HimthemostHighRaptinabalmieCloudwithwingedSteedsDid,asthousawst,receave,towalkwithGodHighinSalvationandtheClimesofbliss,ExemptfromDeath;toshewtheewhatrewardAwaitsthegood,therestwhatpunishment;(710)Whichnowdirectthineeyesandsoonbehold.Helook’d,andsawthefaceofthingsquitechang’d;ThebrazenThroatofWarrhadceasttoroar,Allnowwasturn’dtojollitieandgame,Toluxurieandriot,feastanddance,Marryingorprostituting,asbefell,RapeorAdulterie,wherepassingfaireAllurdthem;thencefromCupstocivilBroiles.AtlengthaReverendSireamongthemcame,Andofthirdoingsgreatdislikedeclar’d,(720)Andtestifi’dagainstthirwayes;heeoftFrequentedthirAssemblies,wheresomet,TriumphsorFestivals,andtothempreachdConversionandRepentance,astoSoulsInprisonunderJudgementsimminent:Butallinvain:whichwhenhesaw,heceas’dContending,andremov’dhisTentsfarroff;ThenfromtheMountainhewingTimbertall,BegantobuildaVesselofhugebulk,Measur’dbyCubit,length,andbreadth,andhighth,(730)SmeardroundwithPitch,andinthesideadoreContriv’d,andofprovisionslaidinlarge

ForManandBeast:whenloeawonderstrange!OfeverieBeast,andBird,andInsectsmallCameseavens,andpairs,andenterdin,astaughtThirorder;lasttheSire,andhisthreeSonsWiththirfourWives;andGodmadefastthedore.MeanwhiletheSouthwindrose,andwithblackwingsWidehovering,alltheCloudstogetherdroveFromunderHeav’n;theHillstotheirsupplie(740)Vapour,andExhalationduskandmoist,Sentupamain;andnowthethick’ndSkieLikeadarkCeelingstood;downrush’dtheRainImpetuous,andcontinu’dtilltheEarthNomorewasseen;thefloatingVesselswumUplifted;andsecurewithbeakedprowRodetiltingo’retheWaves,alldwellingselseFloodoverwhelmd,andthemwithallthirpompDeepunderwaterrould;Seacover’dSea,Seawithoutshoar;andinthirPalaces(750)Whereluxurielatereign’d,Sea-monsterswhelp’dAndstabl’d;ofMankind,sonumerouslate,Allleft,inonesmallbottomswumimbark’t.Howdidstthougrievethen,Adam,tobeholdTheendofallthyOfspring,endsosad,Depopulation;theeanotherFloud,OftearsandsorrowaFloudtheealsodrown’d,AndsunktheeasthySons;tillgentlyreardByth’Angel,onthyfeetthoustoodstatlast,

Thoughcomfortless,aswhenaFathermourns(760)HisChildren,allinviewdestroydatonce;Andscarcetoth’Angelutterdstthusthyplaint.OVisionsillforeseen!betterhadILiv’dignorantoffuture,sohadborneMypartofevilonely,eachdayeslotAnoughtobear;thosenow,thatweredispenstTheburd’nofmanyAges,onmelightAtonce,bymyforeknowledgegainingBirthAbortive,totormentmeerethirbeing,Withthoughtthattheymustbe.Letnomanseek(770)HenceforthtobeforetoldwhatshallbefallHimorhisChildern,evilhemaybesure,Whichneitherhisforeknowingcanprevent,AndheethefutureevilshallnolessInapprehensiontheninsubstancefeelGrievoustobear:butthatcarenowispast,Manisnotwhomtowarne:thosefewescap’tFaminandanguishwillatlastconsumeWandringthatwatrieDesert:IhadhopeWhenviolencewasceas’t,andWarronEarth,(780)Allwouldhavethengonwell,peacewouldhavecrowndWithlengthofhappydaystheraceofman;ButIwasfarrdeceav’d;fornowIseePeacetocorruptnolessthenWarrtowaste.Howcomesitthus?unfould,CelestialGuide,AndwhetherheretheRaceofmanwillend.TowhomthusMichael.Thosewhomlastthousawst

Intriumphandluxuriouswealth,aretheyFirstseeninactsofprowesseminentAndgreatexploits,butoftruevertuvoid;(790)Whohavingspiltmuchblood,anddonmuchwasteSubduingNations,andachievdtherebyFameintheWorld,hightitles,andrichprey,Shallchangethircoursetopleasure,ease,andsloth,Surfet,andlust,tillwantonnessandprideRaiseoutoffriendshiphostildeedsinPeace.Theconquerdalso,andenslav’dbyWarrShallwiththirfreedomlostallvertulooseAndfeareofGod,fromwhomthirpietiefeign’dInsharpcontestofBattelfoundnoaide(800)Againstinvaders;thereforecooldinzealeThenceforthshallpracticehowtolivesecure,Worldlieordissolute,onwhatthirLordsShallleavethemtoenjoy;forth’EarthshallbearMorethenanough,thattemperancemaybetri’d:Soallshallturndegenerate,alldeprav’d,JusticeandTemperance,TruthandFaithforgot;OneManexcept,theonelySonoflightInadarkAge,againstexamplegood,Againstallurement,custom,andaWorld(810)Offended;fearlessofreproachandscorn,Orviolence,heeoftheirwickedwayesShallthemadmonish,andbeforethemsetThepathsofrighteousness,howmuchmoresafe,Andfullofpeace,denouncingwrauthtocome

Onthirimpenitence;andshallreturneOfthemderided,butofGodobservdTheonejustManalive;byhiscommandShallbuildawondrousArk,asthoubeheldst,Tosavehimselfandhousholdfromamidst(820)AWorlddevotetouniversalrack.NosoonerheewiththemofManandBeastSelectforlifeshallintheArkbelodg’d,Andshelterdround,butalltheCataractsOfHeav’nsetopenontheEarthshallpowreRainedayandnight,allfountainesoftheDeepBrokeup,shallheavetheOceantousurpBeyondallbounds,tillinundationriseAbovethehighestHills:thenshallthisMountOfParadisebymightofWavesbemoovd(830)Outofhisplace,pushdbythehornedfloud,Withallhisverdurespoil’d,andTreesadriftDownthegreatRivertotheop’ningGulf,AndtheretakerootanIlandsaltandbare,ThehauntofSealesandOrcs,andSea-mewsclang.ToteachtheethatGodattributestoplaceNosanctitie,ifnonebethitherbroughtByMenwhotherefrequent,orthereindwell.Andnowwhatfurthershallensue,behold.Helookd,andsawtheArkhullonthefloud,(840)Whichnowabated,fortheCloudswerefled,DrivnbyakeenNorth-winde,thatblowingdrie

Wrinkl’dthefaceofDeluge,asdecai’d;AndthecleerSunonhiswidewatrieGlassGaz’dhot,andofthefreshWavelargelydrew,Asafterthirst,whichmadethirflowingshrinkFromstandinglaketotrippingebbe,thatstoleWithsoftfoottowardsthedeep,whonowhadstoptHisSluces,astheHeav’nhiswindowsshut.TheArknomorenowflotes,butseemsonground(850)Fastonthetopofsomhighmountainfixt.AndnowthetopsofHillsasRocksappeer;WithclamorthencetherapidCurrentsdriveTowardstheretreatingSeathirfurioustyde.ForthwithfromouttheArkeaRavenflies,Andafterhim,thesurermessenger,ADovesentforthonceandagentospieGreenTreeorgroundwhereonhisfootmaylight;Thesecondtimereturning,inhisBillAnOliveleafehebrings,pacificsigne:(860)Anondriegroundappeers,andfromhisArkeTheancientSiredescendswithallhisTrain;Thenwithupliftedhands,andeyesdevout,GratefultoHeav’n,overhisheadbeholdsAdewieCloud,andintheCloudaBowConspicuouswiththreelistedcoloursgay,Betok’ningpeacefromGod,andCov’nantnew.WhereattheheartofAdamerstsosadGreatlyrejoyc’d,andthushisjoybrokeforth.Othouthatfuturethingscanstrepresent(870)

Aspresent,Heav’nlyinstructer,IreviveAtthislastsight,assur’dthatManshallliveWithalltheCreatures,andthirseedpreserve.FarrlessInowlamentforonewholeWorldOfwickedSonsdestroyd,thenIrejoyceForoneManfoundsoperfetandsojust,ThatGodvoutsafestoraiseanotherWorldFromhim,andallhisangertoforget.Butsay,whatmeanthosecolourdstreaksinHeavn,DistendedastheBrowofGodappeas’d,(880)OrservetheyasaflourievergetobindeThefluidskirtsofthatsamewatrieCloud,LeastitagaindissolveandshowrtheEarth?Towhomth’Archangel.Dextrouslythouaim’st;SowillinglydothGodremithisIre,ThoughlaterepentinghimofMandeprav’d,Griev’dathisheart,whenlookingdownhesawThewholeEarthfill’dwithviolence,andallfleshCorruptingeachthirway;yetthoseremoov’d,SuchgraceshallonejustManfindinhissight,(890)Thatherelents,nottoblotoutmankind,AndmakesaCovenantnevertodestroyTheEarthagainbyflood,norlettheSeaSurpasshisbounds,norRaintodrowntheWorldWithManthereinorBeast;butwhenhebringsOvertheEarthaCloud,willthereinsetHistriple-colour’dBow,whereontolookAndcalltomindhisCov’nant:DayandNight,

SeedtimeandHarvest,HeatandhoaryFrostShallholdthircourse,tillfirepurgeallthingsnew,(900)BothHeav’nandEarth,whereinthejustshalldwell.

TheEndoftheEleventhBook.

Book XII

TheArgument

TheAngelMichaelcontinuesfromtheFloodtorelatewhatshallsucceed; then, in thementionof Abraham,comesbydegreestoexplain,whothatSeedof theWomanshall

be, which was promisedAdama n dE vein the Fall; his Incarnation, Death,Resurrection, and Ascention; the state of the Church till his second Coming.Adamgreatly satisfiedand recomfortedby theseRelationsandPromisesdescends theHillwith

Michael;wakensEve,whoallthiswhilehadslept,butwithgentledreamscompos’dto quietness of mind and submission.Michaelin either hand leads them out ofParadise,thefierySwordwavingbehindthem,andtheCherubimtakingthirStationsto

guardthePlace.

AsonewhoinhisjourneybatesatNoone,Thoughbentonspeed,soheertheArchangelpaus’dBetwixttheworlddestroy’dandworldrestor’d,IfAdamaughtperhapsmightinterpose;ThenwithtransitionsweetnewSpeechresumes.ThusthouhastseenoneWorldbeginandend;AndManasfromasecondstockproceed.Muchthouhastyettosee,butIperceaveThymortalsighttofaile;objectsdivineMustneedsimpaireandweariehumansense:(10)HenceforthwhatistocomIwillrelate,Thouthereforegivedueaudience,andattend.

ThissecondsoursofMen,whileyetbutfew;AndwhilethedreadofjudgementpastremainsFreshinthirmindes,fearingtheDeitie,WithsomeregardtowhatisjustandrightShallleadthirlives,andmultiplieapace,Labouringthesoile,andreapingplenteouscrop,Cornwineandoyle;andfromtheherdorflock,OftsacrificingBullock,Lamb,orKid,(20)WithlargeWine-offeringspour’d,andsacredFeastShalspendthirdayesinjoyunblam’d,anddwellLongtimeinpeacebyFamiliesandTribesUnderpaternalrule;tilloneshallriseOfproudambitiousheart,whonotcontentWithfairequalitie,fraternalstate,WillarrogateDominionundeserv’dOverhisbrethren,andquitedispossessConcordandlawofNaturefromtheEarth,Hunting(andMennotBeastsshallbehisgame)(30)WithWarrandhostilesnaresuchasrefuseSubjectiontohisEmpiretyrannous:AmightieHunterthenceheshallbestyl’dBeforetheLord,asindespiteofHeav’n,OrfromHeav’nclamingsecondSovrantie;AndfromRebellionshallderivehisname,ThoughofRebellionothersheaccuse.Heewithacrew,whomlikeAmbitionjoynsWithhimorunderhimtotyrannize,MarchingfromEdentowardstheWest,shallfinde(40)

ThePlain,whereinablackbituminousgurgeBoilesoutfromunderground,themouthofHell;OfBrick,andofthatstufftheycasttobuildACitieandTowre,whosetopmayreachtoHeav’n;Andgetthemselvesaname,leastfardisperstInforaignLandsthirmemoriebelost,Regardlesswhethergoodorevilfame.ButGodwhooftdescendstovisitmenUnseen,andthroughthirhabitationswalksTomarkthirdoings,thembeholdingsoon,(50)ComesdowntoseethirCitie,eretheTowerObstructHeav’nTowrs,andinderisionsetsUponthirTonguesavariousSpirittoraseQuiteoutthirNativeLanguage,andinsteadTosowajanglingnoiseofwordsunknown:ForthwithahideousgabblerisesloudAmongtheBuilders;eachtoothercallsNotunderstood,tillhoarse,andallinrage,Asmockttheystorm;greatlaughterwasinHeav’nAndlookingdown,toseethehubbubstrange(60)Andhearthedin;thuswasthebuildingleftRidiculous,andtheworkConfusionnam’d.WheretothusAdamfatherlydispleas’d.OexecrableSonsotoaspireAbovehisBrethren,tohimselfassumingAuthoritieusurpt,fromGodnotgiv’n:HegaveusonelyoverBeast,Fish,FowlDominionabsolute;thatrightwehold

Byhisdonation;butManovermenHemadenotLord;suchtitletohimself(70)Reserving,humanleftfromhumanfree.ButthisUsurperhisencroachmentproudStayesnotonMan;toGodhisTowerintendsSiegeanddefiance:Wretchedman!whatfoodWillheconveyupthithertosustainHimselfandhisrashArmie,wherethinAireAbovetheCloudswillpinehisentrailsgross,AndfamishhimofBreath,ifnotofBread?TowhomthusMichael.Justlythouabhorr’stThatSon,whoonthequietstateofmen(80)Suchtroublebrought,affectingtosubdueRationalLibertie;yetknowwithall,Sincethyoriginallapse,trueLibertieIslost,whichalwayeswithrightReasondwellsTwinn’d,andfromherhathnodividualbeing:Reasoninmanobscur’d,ornotobeyd,ImmediatelyinordinatedesiresAndupstartPassionscatchtheGovernmentFromReason,andtoservitudereduceMantillthenfree.Thereforesinceheepermits(90)WithinhimselfunworthiePowerstoreignOverfreeReason,GodinJudgementjustSubjectshimfromwithouttoviolentLords;WhooftasundeservedlyenthrallHisoutwardfreedom:Tyranniemustbe,

ThoughtotheTyranttherebynoexcuse.YetsomtimesNationswilldeclinesolowFromvertue,whichisreason,thatnowrong,ButJustice,andsomefatalcurseannextDeprivesthemofthiroutwardlibertie,(100)Thirinwardlost:Witnessth’irreverentSonOfhimwhobuilttheArk,whofortheshameDontohisFather,heardthisheaviecurse,ServantofServants,onhisvitiousRace.Thuswillthislatter,astheformerWorld,Stilltendfrombadtoworse,tillGodatlastWeariedwiththeiriniquities,withdrawHispresencefromamongthem,andavertHisholyEyes;resolvingfromthenceforthToleavethemtothirownpollutedwayes;(110)AndonepeculiarNationtoselectFromalltherest,ofwhomtobeinvok’d,ANationfromonefaithfulmantospring:HimonthissideEuphratesyetresiding,BredupinIdol-worship;Othatmen(Canstthoubelieve?)shouldbesostupidgrown,WhileyetthePatriarkliv’d,whoscap’dtheFlood,AstoforsakethelivingGod,andfallToworshipthirownworkinWoodandStoneForGods!yethimGodthemostHighvoutsafes(120)TocallbyVisionfromhisFathershouse,HiskindredandfalseGods,intoaLandWhichhewillshewhim,andfromhimwillraise

AmightieNation,anduponhimshowreHisbenedictionso,thatinhisSeedAllNationsshallbeblest;heestraightobeys,NotknowingtowhatLand,yetfirmbelieves:Iseehim,butthoucanstnot,withwhatFaithHeleaveshisGods,hisFriends,andnativeSoileUrofChaldæa,passingnowtheFord(130)ToHaran,afterhimacumbrousTrainOfHerdsandFlocks,andnumerousservitude;Notwandringpoor,buttrustingallhiswealthWithGod,whocall’dhim,inalandunknown.Canaanhenowattains,IseehisTentsPitchtaboutSechem,andtheneighbouringPlaineOfMoreh;therebypromisehereceavesGifttohisProgenieofallthatLand;FromHamathNorthwardtotheDesertSouth(ThingsbythirnamesIcall,thoughyetunnam’d)(140)FromHermonEasttothegreatWesternSea,MountHermon,yonderSea,eachplacebeholdInprospect,asIpointthem;ontheshoareMountCarmel;herethedouble-fountedstreamJordan,truelimitEastward;buthisSonsShalldwelltoSenir,thatlongridgeofHills.Thisponder,thatallNationsoftheEarthShallinhisSeedbeblessed;bythatSeedIsmeantthygreatdeliverer,whoshallbruiseTheSerpentshead;whereoftotheeanon(150)Plainliershallbereveald.ThisPatriarchblest,

WhomfaithfulAbrahamduetimeshallcall,ASon,andofhisSonaGrand-childeleaves,Likehiminfaith,inwisdom,andrenown;TheGrandchildewithtwelveSonsincreast,departsFromCanaan,toaLandhereaftercall’dEgypt,dividedbytheRiverNile;Seewhereitflows,disgorgingatseavenmouthesIntotheSea:tosojourninthatLandHecomesinvitedbyayongerSon(160)Intimeofdearth,aSonwhoseworthydeedsRaisehimtobethesecondinthatRealmeOfPharao:therehedies,andleaveshisRaceGrowingintoaNation,andnowgrownSuspectedtoasequentKing,whoseeksTostopthirovergrowth,asinmateguestsToonumerous;whenceofguestshemakesthemslavesInhospitably,andkillsthirinfantMales:Tillbytwobrethren(thosetwobrethrencallMosesandAaron)sentfromGodtoclaime(170)Hispeoplefromenthralment,theyreturnWithgloryandspoilebacktothirpromis’dLand.ButfirstthelawlessTyrant,whodeniesToknowthirGod,ormessagetoregard,MustbecompelldbySignesandJudgementsdire;TobloodunshedtheRiversmustbeturnd,Frogs,LiceandFliesmustallhisPalacefillWithloath’dintrusion,andfillalltheland;

HisCattelmustofRotandMurrendie,Botchesandblainesmustallhisfleshimboss,(180)Andallhispeople;ThundermixtwithHaile,Hailemixtwithfiremustrendth’EgyptianSkieAndwheelonth’Earth,devouringwhereitrouls;Whatitdevoursnot,Herb,orFruit,orGraine,AdarksomCloudofLocustsswarmingdownMusteat,andonthegroundleavenothinggreen:Darknessmustovershadowallhisbounds,Palpabledarkness,andblotoutthreedayes;Lastwithonemidnightstrokeallthefirst-bornOfEgyptmustliedead.Thuswithtenwounds(190)TheRiver-dragontam’datlengthsubmitsTolethissojournersdepart,andoftHumbleshisstubbornheart,butstillasIceMorehard’ndafterthaw,tillinhisragePursuingwhomhelatedismissd,theSeaSwallowshimwithhisHost,butthemletspassAsondrielandbetweentwochristalwalls,Aw’dbytherodofMosessotostandDivided,tillhisrescu’dgainthirshoar:SuchwondrouspowerGodtohisSaintwilllend,(200)ThoughpresentinhisAngel,whoshallgoeBeforetheminaCloud,andPillarofFire,BydayaCloud,bynightaPillarofFire,Toguidetheminthirjourney,andremoveBehindethem,whileth’obduratKingpursues:Allnighthewillpursue,buthisapproach

DarknessdefendsbetweentillmorningWatch;ThenthroughtheFireyPillarandtheCloudGodlookingforthwilltroubleallhisHostAndcrazethirChariotwheels:whenbycommand(210)MosesoncemorehispotentRodextendsOvertheSea;theSeahisRodobeys;OnthirimbattelldrankstheWavesreturn,AndoverwhelmthirWarr:theRaceelectSafetowardsCanaanfromtheshoaradvanceThroughthewildeDesert,notthereadiestway,LeastentringontheCanaaniteallarmdWarrterrifietheminexpert,andfeareReturnthembacktoEgypt,choosingratherIngloriouslifewithservitude;forlife(220)TonobleandignobleismoresweetUntraindinArmes,whererashnessleadsnoton.ThisalsoshalltheygainbythirdelayInthewideWilderness,theretheyshallfoundThirgovernment,andthirgreatSenatechooseThroughthetwelveTribes,torulebyLawsordaind:GodfromtheMountofSinai,whosegraytopShalltremble,hedescending,willhimselfInThunderLightningandloudTrumpetssoundOrdainethemLawes;partsuchasappertaine(230)TocivilJustice,partreligiousRitesOfsacrifice,informingthem,bytypesAndshadowes,ofthatdestindSeedtobruiseTheSerpent,bywhatmeanesheshallachieve

Mankindsdeliverance.ButthevoiceofGodTomortaleareisdreadful;theybeseechThatMosesmightreporttothemhiswill,Andterrorcease;hegrantsthemthiedesire,InstructedthattoGodisnoaccessWithoutMediator,whosehighOfficenow(240)Mosesinfigurebeares,tointroduceOnegreater,ofwhosedayheshallforetell,AndalltheProphetsinthirAgethetimesOfgreatMessiahshallsing.ThusLawsandRitesEstablisht,suchdelighthathGodinMenObedienttohiswill,thathevoutsafesAmongthemtosetuphisTabernacle,TheholyOnewithmortalMentodwell:ByhisprescriptaSanctuaryisfram’dOfCedar,overlaidwithGold,therein(250)AnArk,andintheArkhisTestimony,TheRecordsofhisCov’nant,overtheseAMercie-seatofGoldbetweenthewingsOftwobrightCherubim,beforehimburnSeavenLampsasinaZodiacrepresentingTheHeav’nlyfires;overtheTentaCloudShallrestbyDay,afieriegleamebyNight,Savewhentheyjournie,andatlengththeycome,ConductedbyhisAngeltotheLandPromisdtoAbrahamandhisSeed:therest(260)Werelongtotell,howmanyBattelsfought,

HowmanyKingsdestroyd,andKingdomswon,OrhowtheSunshallinmidHeav’nstandstillAdayentire,andNightsduecourseadjourne,Mansvoicecommanding,SuninGibeonstand,AndthouMooninthevaleofAialon,TillIsraelovercome;socallthethirdFromAbraham,SonofIsaac,andfromhimHiswholedescent,whothusshallCanaanwin.HereAdaminterpos’d.OsentfromHeav’n,(270)Enlightnerofmydarkness,graciousthingsThouhastreveald,thosechieflywhichconcerneJustAbrahamandhisSeed:nowfirstIfindeMineeyestrueop’ning,andmyheartmucheas’d,ErwhileperplextwiththoughtswhatwouldbecomOfmeeandallMankind;butnowIseeHisday,inwhomallNationsshallbeblest,Favourunmeritedbyme,whosoughtForbidd’nknowledgebyforbidd’nmeans.ThisyetIapprehendnot,whytothose(280)AmongwhomGodwilldeignetodwellonEarthSomanyandsovariousLawsaregiv’n;SomanyLawsarguesomanysinsAmongthem;howcanGodwithsuchreside?TowhomthusMichael.DoubtnotbutthatsinWillreignamongthem,asoftheebegot;AndthereforewasLawgiventhemtoevinceThirnaturalpravitie,bystirringupSinagainstLawtofight;thatwhentheysee

Lawcandiscoversin,butnotremove,(290)Savebythoseshadowieexpiationsweak,ThebloudofBullsandGoats,theymayconcludeSomebloudmorepreciousmustbepaidforMan,Justforunjust,thatinsuchrighteousnessTothembyFaithimputed,theymayfindeJustificationtowardsGod,andpeaceOfConscience,whichtheLawbyCeremoniesCannotappease,norManthemoralpartPerform,andnotperformingcannotlive.SoLawappearsimperfet,andbutgiv’n(300)WithpurposetoresigntheminfulltimeUptoabetterCov’nant,disciplin’dFromshadowieTypestoTruth,fromFleshtoSpirit,FromimpositionofstrictLaws,tofreeAcceptanceoflargeGrace,fromservilfearTofilial,worksofLawtoworksofFaith.AndthereforeshallnotMoses,thoughofGodHighlybelov’d,beingbuttheMinisterOfLaw,hispeopleintoCanaanlead;ButJoshuawhomtheGentilesJesuscall,(310)HisNameandOfficebearing,whoshallquellTheadversarieSerpent,andbringbackThroughtheworldswildernesslongwanderdmanSafetoeternalParadiseofrest.MeanwhiletheyinthirearthlyCanaanplac’tLongtimeshalldwellandprosper,butwhensinsNationalinterruptthirpublicpeace,

ProvokingGodtoraisethemenemies:FromwhomasofthesavesthempenitentByJudgesfirst,thenunderKings;ofwhom(320)Thesecond,bothforpietierenowndAndpuissantdeeds,apromiseshallreceiveIrrevocable,thathisRegalThroneForevershallendure;thelikeshallsingAllProphecie,ThatoftheRoyalStockOfDavid(soInamethisKing)shallriseASon,theWomansSeedtotheeforetold,ForetoldtoAbraham,asinwhomshalltrustAllNations,andtoKingsforetold,ofKingsThelast,forofhisReignshallbenoend.(330)Butfirstalongsuccessionmustensue,AndhisnextSonforWealthandWisdomfam’d,ThecloudedArkofGodtilltheninTentsWandring,shallinagloriousTempleenshrine.Suchfollowhim,asshallberegisterdPartgood,partbad,ofbadthelongerscrowle,WhosefoulIdolatries,andotherfaultsHeapttothepopularsumme,willsoincenseGod,astoleavethem,andexposethirLand,ThirCitie,hisTemple,andhisholyArk(340)Withallhissacredthings,ascornandpreyTothatproudCitie,whosehighWallsthousaw’stLeftinconfusion,Babylonthencecall’d.Thereincaptivitieheletsthemdwell

Thespaceofseventieyears,thenbringsthemback,Remembringmercie,andhisCov’nantswornToDavid,stablishtasthedayesofHeav’n.ReturndfromBabylonbyleaveofKingsThirLords,whomGoddispos’d,thehouseofGodTheyfirstre-edifie,andforawhile(350)Inmeanestatelivemoderate,tillgrownInwealthandmultitude,factioustheygrow;ButfirstamongthePriestsdissensionsprings,MenwhoattendtheAltar,andshouldmostEndeavourPeace:thirstrifepollutionbringsUpontheTempleitself:atlasttheyseiseTheScepter,andregardnotDavidsSons,Thenlooseittoastranger,thatthetrueAnointedKingMessiahmightbebornBarr’dofhisright;yetathisBirthaStarr(360)UnseenbeforeinHeav’nproclaimshimcom,AndguidestheEasternSages,whoenquireHisplace,toofferIncense,Myrrh,andGold;HisplaceofbirthasolemnAngeltellsTosimpleShepherds,keepingwatchbynight;Theygladlythitherhaste,andbyaQuireOfsquadrondAngelshearhisCarolsung.AVirginishisMother,buthisSireThePowerofthemostHigh;heshallascendTheThronehereditarie,andboundhisReign(370)Withearthswidebounds,hisglorywiththeHeav’ns.Heceas’d,discerningAdamwithsuchjoy

Surcharg’d,ashadlikegriefbindew’dintears,Withouttheventofwords,whichthesehebreathd.OProphetofgladtidings,finisherOfutmosthope!nowclearIunderstandWhatoftmysteddiestthoughtshavesearchtinvain,Whyourgreatexpectationshouldbecall’dTheseedofWoman:VirginMother,Haile,HighintheloveofHeav’n,yetfrommyLoynes(380)Thoushaltproceed,andfromthyWombtheSonOfGodmostHigh;SoGodwithmanunites.NeedsmusttheSerpentnowhiscapitalbruiseExpectwithmortalpaine:saywhereandwhenThirfight,whatstrokeshallbruisetheVictorsheel.TowhomthusMichael.Dreamnotofthirfight,AsofaDuel,orthelocalwoundsOfheadorheel:notthereforejoynestheSonManhoodtoGod-head,withmorestrengthtofoilThyenemie;norsoisovercome(390)Satan,whosefallfromHeav’n,adeadlierbruise,Disabl’dnottogivetheethydeathswound:Whichhee,whocomesthySaviour,shallrecure,NotbydestroyingSatan,buthisworksIntheeandinthySeed:norcanthisbe,Butbyfulfillingthatwhichthoudidstwant,ObediencetotheLawofGod,impos’dOnpenaltieofdeath,andsufferingdeath,Thepenaltietothytransgressiondue,Andduetotheirswhichoutofthinewillgrow:(400)

SoonelycanhighJusticerestappaid.TheLawofGodexactheshallfulfillBothbyobedienceandbylove,thoughloveAlonefulfilltheLaw;thypunishmentHeshallendurebycomingintheFleshToareproachfullifeandcurseddeath,ProclamingLifetoallwhoshallbelieveInhisredemption,andthathisobedienceImputedbecomestheirsbyFaith,hismeritsTosavethem,notthirown,thoughlegalworks.(410)Forthisheshalllivehated,beblasphem’d,Seis’donbyforce,judg’d,andtodeathcondemndAshamefulandaccurst,naildtotheCrossByhisownNation,slaineforbringingLife;ButtotheCrosshenailesthyEnemies,TheLawthatisagainstthee,andthesinsOfallmankinde,withhimtherecrucifi’d,NevertohurtthemmorewhorightlytrustInthishissatisfaction;sohedies,Butsoonrevives,Deathoverhimnopower(420)Shalllongusurp;erethethirddawninglightReturne,theStarresofMornshallseehimriseOutofhisgrave,freshasthedawninglight,Thyransompaid,whichManfromdeathredeems,HisdeathforMan,asmanyasofferdLifeNeglectnot,andthebenefitimbraceByFaithnotvoidofworkes:thisGod-likeact

Annulsthydoom,thedeaththoushouldsthavedy’d,Insinforeverlostfromlife;thisactShallbruisetheheadofSatan,crushhisstrength(430)DefeatingSinandDeath,histwomainearmes,AndfixfarrdeeperinhisheadthirstingsThentemporaldeathshallbruisetheVictorsheel,Ortheirswhomheredeems,adeathlikesleep,AgentlewaftingtoimmortalLife.NorafterresurrectionshallhestayLongeronEarththencertainetimestoappeerTohisDisciples,MenwhoinhisLifeStillfollow’dhim;tothemshallleaveinchargeToteachallnationswhatofhimtheylearn’d(440)AndhisSalvation,themwhoshallbeleeveBaptizingintheprofluentstreame,thesigneOfwashingthemfromguiltofsintoLifePure,andinmindprepar’d,ifsobefall,Fordeath,likethatwhichtheredeemerdy’d.AllNationstheyshallteach;forfromthatdayNotonelytotheSonsofAbrahamsLoinesSalvationshallbePreacht,buttotheSonsOfAbrahamsFaithwhereverthroughtheworld;SoinhisseedallNationsshallbeblest.(450)ThentotheHeav’nofHeav’nsheshallascendWithvictory,triumphingthroughtheaireOverhisfoesandthine;thereshallsurpriseTheSerpent,Princeofaire,anddraginChainesThroughallhisRealme,andthereconfoundedleave;

Thenenterintoglory,andresumeHisSeatatGodsrighthand,exaltedhighAboveallnamesinHeav’n;andthenceshallcome,Whenthisworldsdissolutionshallberipe,Withgloryandpowertojudgebothquickanddead,(460)Tojudgeth’unfaithfuldead,buttorewardHisfaithful,andreceavethemintobliss,WhetherinHeav’norEarth,forthentheEarthShallallbeParadise,farhappierplaceThenthisofEden,andfarhappierdaies.Sospaketh’ArchangelMichael,thenpaus’d,AsattheWorldsgreatperiod;andourSireRepletewithjoyandwonderthusrepli’d.Ogoodnessinfinite,goodnessimmense!Thatallthisgoodofevilshallproduce,(470)Andevilturntogood;morewonderfulThenthatwhichbycreationfirstbroughtforthLightoutofdarkness!fullofdoubtIstand,WhetherIshouldrepentmenowofsinBymeedoneandoccasiond,orrejoyceMuchmore,thatmuchmoregoodthereofshallspring,ToGodmoreglory,moregoodwilltoMenFromGod,andoverwrauthgraceshallabound.Butsay,ifourdelivereruptoHeav’nMustreascend,whatwillbetidethefew(480)Hisfaithful,leftamongth’unfaithfulherd,Theenemiesoftruth;whothenshallguideHispeople,whodefend?willtheynotdeale

Worswithhisfollowersthenwithhimtheydealt?Besuretheywill,saidth’Angel;butfromHeav’nHeetohisownaComforterwillsend,ThepromiseoftheFather,whoshalldwellHisSpiritwithinthem,andtheLawofFaithWorkingthroughlove,uponthirheartsshallwrite,Toguidetheminalltruth,andalsoarme(490)WithspiritualArmour,abletoresistSatansassaults,andquenchhisfieriedarts,WhatMancandoagainstthem,notaffraid,Thoughtothedeath,againstsuchcrueltiesWithinwardconsolationsrecompenc’t,AndoftsupportedsoasshallamazeThirproudestpersecuters:fortheSpiritPowrdfirstonhisApostles,whomhesendsToevangelizetheNations,thenonallBaptiz’d,shallthemwithwondrousgiftsendue(500)TospeakallTongues,anddoallMiracles,AsdidthirLordbeforethem.ThustheywinGreatnumbersofeachNationtoreceaveWithjoythetidingsbroughtfromHeav’n:atlengthThirMinistryperform’d,andracewellrun,Thirdoctrineandthirstorywrittenleft,Theydie;butinthirroom,astheyforewarne,Wolvesshallsucceedforteachers,grievousWolves,WhoallthesacredmysteriesofHeav’nTothirownvileadvantagesshallturne(510)

Oflucreandambition,andthetruthWithsuperstitionsandtraditionstaint,LeftonelyinthosewrittenRecordspure,ThoughnotbutbytheSpiritunderstood.Thenshalltheyseektoavailthemselvesofnames,Placesandtitles,andwiththesetojoineSecularpower,thoughfeigningstilltoactByspiritual,tothemselvesappropriatingTheSpiritofGod,promisdalikeandgiv’nToallBeleevers;andfromthatpretense,(520)SpiritualLawesbycarnalpowershallforceOneveryconscience;LawswhichnoneshallfindeLefttheminrould,orwhattheSpiritwithinShallontheheartengrave.WhatwilltheythenButforcetheSpiritofGraceitself,andbindeHisconsortLibertie;what,butunbuildHislivingTemples,builtbyFaithtostand,ThirownFaithnotanothers:foronEarthWhoagainstFaithandConsciencecanbeheardInfallible?yetmanywillpresume:(530)WhenceheaviepersecutionshallariseOnallwhointheworshippersevereOfSpiritandTruth;therest,farrgreaterpart,WelldeeminoutwardRitesandspeciousformesReligionsatisfi’d;TruthshallretireBestuckwithslandrousdarts,andworksofFaithRarelybefound:soshalltheWorldgoeon,Togoodmalignant,tobadmenbenigne,

Underherownwaightgroaning,tillthedayAppeerofrespirationtothejust,(540)Andvengeancetothewicked,atreturnOfhimsolatelypromiss’dtothyaidTheWomansseed,obscurelythenforetold,NowamplierknownthySaviourandthyLord,LastintheCloudsfromHeav’ntoberevealdIngloryoftheFather,todissolveSatanwithhispervertedWorld,thenraiseFromtheconflagrantmass,purg’dandrefin’d,NewHeav’ns,newEarth,AgesofendlessdateFoundedinrighteousnessandpeaceandlove,(550)TobringforthfruitsJoyandeternalBliss.Heended;andthusAdamlastreply’d.Howsoonhaththyprediction,Seerblest,Measur’dthistransientWorld,theRaceoftime,Tilltimestandfixt:beyondisallabyss,Eternitie,whoseendnoeyecanreach.GreatlyinstructedIshallhencedepart,Greatlyinpeaceofthought,andhavemyfillOfknowledge,whatthisVesselcancontaine;Beyondwhichwasmyfollytoaspire.(560)HenceforthIlearne,thattoobeyisbest,AndlovewithfearetheonelyGod,towalkAsinhispresence,evertoobserveHisprovidence,andonhimsoledepend,Mercifuloverallhisworks,withgoodStillovercomingevil,andbysmall

Accomplishinggreatthings,bythingsdeemdweakSubvertingworldlystrong,andworldlywiseBysimplymeek;thatsufferingforTruthssakeIsfortitudetohighestvictorie,(570)AndtothefaithfulDeaththeGateofLife;TaughtthisbyhisexamplewhomInowAcknowledgemyRedeemereverblest.Towhomthusalsoth’Angellastrepli’d:Thishavinglearnt,thouhastattainedthesummeOfwisdom;hopenohigher,thoughalltheStarrsThouknewstbyname,andallth’etherealPowers,Allsecretsofthedeep,allNaturesworks,OrworksofGodinHeav’n,Aire,Earth,orSea,AndalltherichesofthisWorldenjoydst,(580)Andalltherule,oneEmpire;onelyaddDeedstothyknowledgeanswerable,addFaith,AddVertue,Patience,Temperance,addLove,Bynametocomecall’dCharitie,thesoulOfalltherest:thenwiltthounotbeloathToleavethisParadise,butshaltpossessAParadisewithinthee,happierfarr.LetusdescendnowthereforefromthistopOfSpeculation;forthehourpreciseExactsourpartinghence;andseetheGuards,(590)BymeeencamptonyonderHill,expectThirmotion,atwhoseFrontaflamingSword,Insignalofremove,wavesfiercelyround;

Wemaynolongerstay:go,wakenEve;HeralsoIwithgentleDreamshavecalm’dPortendinggood,andallherspiritscompos’dTomeeksubmission:thouatseasonfitLetherwiththeepartakewhatthouhastheard,ChieflywhatmayconcernherFaithtoknow,ThegreatdeliverancebyherSeedtocome(600)(ForbytheWomansSeed)onallMankind.Thatyemaylive,whichwillbemanydayes,BothinoneFaithunanimousthoughsad,Withcauseforevilspast,yetmuchmorecheer’dWithmeditationonthehappieend.Heended,andtheybothdescendtheHill;Descended,AdamtotheBowrewhereEveLaysleepingranbefore,butfoundherwak’t;Andthuswithwordsnotsadshehimreceav’d.Whencethoureturnst,andwhitherwentst,Iknow;(610)ForGodisalsoinsleep,andDreamsadvise,Whichhehathsentpropitious,somegreatgoodPresaging,sincewithsorrowandheartsdistressWeariedIfellasleep:butnowleadon;Inmeeisnodelay;withtheetogoe,Istostayhere;withouttheeheretostay,Istogohenceunwilling;thoutomeeArtallthingsunderHeav’n,allplacesthou,Whoformywilfulcrimeartbanishthence.Thisfurtherconsolationyetsecure(620)Icarryhence;thoughallbymeeislost,

SuchfavourIunworthieamvoutsaft,BymeethePromis’dSeedshallallrestore.SospakeourMotherEve,andAdamheardWellpleas’d,butanswer’dnot;fornowtoonighTh’Archangelstood,andfromtheotherHillTothirfixtStation,allinbrightarrayTheCherubimdescended;onthegroundGlidingmeteorous,asEv’ningMistRis’nfromaRivero’rethemarishglides,(630)AndgathersgroundfastattheLabourersheelHomewardreturning.HighinFrontadvanc’t,ThebrandishtSwordofGodbeforethemblaz’dFierceasaComet;whichwithtorridheat,AndvapourastheLibyanAiradust,BegantoparchthattemperateClime;whereatIneitherhandthehastningAngelcaughtOurlingringParents,andtoth’EasternGateLedthemdirect,anddowntheCliffasfastTothesubjectedPlaine;thendisappeer’d.(640)Theylookingback,allth’EasternsidebeheldOfParadise,solatethirhappieseat,Wav’doverbythatflamingBrand,theGateWithdreadfulFacesthrong’dandfierieArmes:Somnaturaltearstheydrop’d,butwip’dthemsoon;TheWorldwasallbeforethem,wheretochooseThirplaceofrest,andProvidencethirguide:Theyhandinhandwithwandringstepsandslow,ThroughEdentookthirsolitarieway.

TheEnd.

PARADISE REGAIN'D

(1671)

Book I

Iwhoe’rewhilethehappyGardensung,Byonemansdisobediencelost,nowsingRecover’dParadisetoallmankind,Byonemansfirmobediencefullytri’dThroughalltemptation,andtheTempterfoil’dInallhiswiles,defeatedandrepuls’t,AndEdenrais’dinthewastWilderness.ThouSpiritwholedstthisgloriousEremiteIntotheDesert,hisVictoriousFieldAgainsttheSpiritualFoe,andbroughtsthimthence(10)ByprooftheundoubtedSonofGod,inspire,Asthouartwont,mypromptedSongelsemute,Andbearthroughhighthordepthofnaturesbounds,Withprosperouswingfullsumm’dtotellofdeedsAboveHeroic,thoughinsecretdone,AndunrecordedleftthroughmanyanAge,Worthyt’havenotremain’dsolongunsung.NowhadthegreatProclaimerwithavoiceMoreawfulthenthesoundofTrumpet,cri’dRepentance,andHeavensKingdomnighathand(20)ToallBaptiz’d:tohisgreatBaptismflock’dWithawtheRegionsround,andwiththemcameFromNazareththeSonofJosephdeem’d

TothefloodJordan,cameasthenobscure,Unmarkt,unknown;buthimtheBaptistsoonDescri’d,divinelywarn’d,andwitnessboreAstohisworthier,andwouldhaveresign’dTohimhisHeavenlyOffice,norwaslongHiswitnessunconfirm’d;onhimbaptiz’dHeavenopen’d,andinlikenessofaDove(30)TheSpiritdescended,whiletheFathersvoiceFromHeav’npronounc’dhimhisbelovedSon.ThatheardtheAdversary,whorovingstillAbouttheworld,atthatassemblyfam’dWouldnotbelast,andwiththevoicedivineNighThunder-struck,th’exaltedman,towhomSuchhighattestwasgiv’n,awhilesurvey’dWithwonder,thenwithenvyfraughtandrageFliestohisplace,norrests,butinmidairToCouncelsummonsallhismightyPeers,(40)WithinthickCloudsanddarkten-foldinvolv’d,AgloomyConsistory;andthemamidstWithlooksaghastandsadhethusbespake.OancientPowersofAirandthiswideworld,FormuchmorewillinglyImentionAir,ThisouroldConquest,thenrememberHellOurhatedhabitation;wellyeknowHowmanyAges,astheyearsofmen,ThisUniversewehavepossest,andrul’dInmanneratourwillth’affairsofEarth,(50)SinceAdamandhisfacilconsortEve

LostParadisedeceiv’dbyme,thoughsinceWithdreadattendingwhenthatfatalwoundShallbeinflictedbytheSeedofEveUponmyhead,longthedecreesofHeav’nDelay,forlongesttimetohimisshort;AndnowtoosoonforusthecirclinghoursThisdreadedtimehavecompast,whereinweMustbidethestroakofthatlongthreatn’dwound,Atleastifsowecan,andbythehead(60)BrokenbenotintendedallourpowerTobeinfring’d,ourfreedomandourbeingInthisfairEmpirewonofEarthandAir;ForthisillnewsIbring,theWomansseedDestin’dtothis,islateofwomanborn,Hisbirthtoourjustfeargavenosmallcause,Buthisgrowthnowtoyouthsfullflowr,displayingAllvertue,graceandwisdomtoatchieveThingshighest,greatest,multipliesmyfear.BeforehimagreatProphet,toproclaim(70)Hiscoming,issentHarbinger,whoallInvites,andintheConsecratedstreamPretendstowashoffsin,andfitthemsoPurifiedtoreceivehimpure,orratherTodohimhonourastheirKing;allcome,Andhehimselfamongthemwasbaptiz’d,Notthencetobemorepure,buttoreceiveThetestimonyofHeaven,thatwhoheisThenceforththeNationsmaynotdoubt;Isaw

TheProphetdohimreverence;onhimrising(80)Outofthewater,Heav’nabovetheCloudsUnfoldherCrystalDores,thenceonhisheadAperfectDovedescend,whate’reitmeant,AndoutofHeav’ntheSov’raignvoiceIheard,ThisismySonbelov’d,inhimampleas’d.HisMotherthenismortal,buthisSireHewhoobtainstheMonarchyofHeav’n,AndwhatwillhenotdotoadvancehisSon?Hisfirst-begotweknow,andsorehavefelt,Whenhisfiercethunderdroveustothedeep;(90)Whothisiswemustlearn,formanheseemsInallhislineaments,thoughinhisfaceTheglimpsesofhisFathersgloryshine.YeseeourdangerontheutmostedgeOfhazard,whichadmitsnolongdebate,Butmustwithsomethingsuddenbeoppos’d,Notforce,butwellcouch’tfraud,well-wovensnares,E’reintheheadofNationsheappearTheirKing,theirLeader,andSupreamonEarth.I,whennootherdurst,soleundertook(100)ThedismalexpeditiontofindoutAndruineAdam,andtheexploitperform’dSuccessfully;acalmervoyagenowWillwaftme;andthewayfoundprosperousonceInducesbesttohopeoflikesuccess.Heended,andhiswordsimpressionleft

Ofmuchamazementtoth’infernalCrew,Distractedandsurpriz’dwithdeepdismayAtthesesadtidings;butnotimewasthenForlongindulgencetotheirfearsorgrief:(110)UnanimoustheyallcommitthecareAndmanagementofthismainenterprizeTohimtheirgreatDictator,whoseattemptAtfirstagainstmankindsowellhadthriv’dInAdam’soverthrow,andledthirmarchFromHell’sdeep-vaultedDentodwellinlight,RegentsandPotentates,andKings,yeagodsOfmanyapleasantRealmandProvincewide.SototheCoastofJordanhedirectsHiseasiesteps,girdedwithsnakywiles,(120)Wherehemightlikeliestfindthisnew-declar’d,Thismanofmen,attestedSonofGod,Temptationandallguileonhimtotry;Sotosubvertwhomhesuspectedrais’dToendhisRaignonEarthsolongenjoy’d:Butcontraryunweetinghefulfill’dThepurpos’dCounselpre-ordain’dandfixtOfthemostHigh,whoinfullfrequencebrightOfAngels,thustoGabrielsmilingspake.Gabrielthisdaybyproofthoushaltbehold,(130)ThouandallAngelsconversantonEarthWithmanormensaffairs,howIbeginToverifiethatsolemnmessagelate,OnwhichIsenttheetotheVirginpure

InGalilee,thatsheshouldbearaSonGreatinRenown,andcall’dtheSonofGod;ThentoldstherdoubtinghowthesethingscouldbeToheraVirgin,thatonhershouldcomeTheHolyGhost,andthepowerofthehighestO’re-shadowher:thismanbornandnowup-grown,(140)ToshewhimworthyofhisbirthdivineAndhighprediction,henceforthIexposeToSatan;lethimtemptandnowassayHisutmostsubtilty,becauseheboastsAndvauntsofhisgreatcunningtothethrongOfhisApostasie;hemighthavelearntLessover-weening,sincehefail’dinJob,WhoseconstantperseveranceovercameWhate’rehiscruelmalicecouldinvent.HenowshallknowIcanproduceaman(150)OffemaleSeed,farablertoresistAllhissollicitations,andatlengthAllhisvastforce,anddrivehimbacktoHell,WinningbyConquestwhatthefirstmanlostByfallacysurpriz’d.ButfirstImeanToexercisehimintheWilderness,ThereheshallfirstlaydowntherudimentsOfhisgreatwarfare,e’reIsendhimforthToconquerSinandDeaththetwograndfoes,ByHumiliationandstrongSufferance:(160)Hisweaknessshallo’recomeSatanicstrengthAndalltheworld,andmassofsinfulflesh;

ThatalltheAngelsandÆtherealPowers,Theynow,andmenhereaftermaydiscern,FromwhatconsummatevertueIhavechoseThisperfectMan,bymeritcall’dmySon,ToearnSalvationfortheSonsofmen.SospaketheEternalFather,andallHeavenAdmiringstoodaspace,thenintoHymnsBurstforth,andinCelestialmeasuresmov’d,(170)CirclingtheThroneandSinging,whilethehandSungwiththevoice,andthistheargument.VictoryandtriumphtotheSonofGodNowentringhisgreatduel,notofarms,Buttovanquishbywisdomhellishwiles.TheFatherknowstheSon;thereforesecureVentureshisfilialVertue,thoughuntri’d,Againstwhate’remaytempt,whate’reseduce,Allure,orterrifie,orundermine.BefrustrateallyestratagemsofHell,(180)Anddevilishmachinationscometonought.SotheyinHeav’ntheirOdesandVigilstun’d:MeanwhiletheSonofGod,whoyetsomedaysLodg’dinBethabarawhereJohnbaptiz’d,Musingandmuchrevolvinginhisbrest,HowbestthemightyworkhemightbeginOfSaviourtomankind,andwhichwayfirstPublishhisGod-likeofficenowmature,Onedayforthwalk’dalone,theSpiritleading;

Andhisdeepthoughts,thebettertoconverse(190)Withsolitude,tillfarfromtrackofmen,Thoughtfollowingthought,andstepbystepledon,HeentrednowtheborderingDesertwild,Andwithdarkshadesandrocksenviron’dround,HisholyMeditationsthuspursu’d.OwhatamultitudeofthoughtsatonceAwakn’dinmeswarm,whileIconsiderWhatfromwithinIfeelmyself,andhearWhatfromwithoutcomesoftentomyears,Illsortingwithmypresentstatecompar’d.(200)WhenIwasyetachild,nochildishplayTomewaspleasing,allmymindwassetSerioustolearnandknow,andthencetodoWhatmightbepublickgood;myselfIthoughtBorntothatend,borntopromotealltruth,Allrighteousthings:thereforeabovemyyears,TheLawofGodIread,andfounditsweet,Madeitmywholedelight,andinitgrewTosuchperfection,thate’reyetmyageHadmeasur’dtwicesixyears,atourgreatFeast(210)IwentintotheTemple,theretohearTheTeachersofourLaw,andtoproposeWhatmightimprovemyknowledgeortheirown;Andwasadmir’dbyall:yetthisnotallTowhichmySpiritaspir’d;victoriousdeedsFlam’dinmyheart,heroicacts;onewhileTorescueIsraelfromtheRomanyoke,

Thencetosubdueandquello’realltheearthBruteviolenceandproudTyrannickpow’r,Tilltruthwerefreed,andequityrestor’d:(220)Yethelditmorehumane,moreheavenlyfirstBywinningwordstoconquerwillinghearts,Andmakeperswasiondotheworkoffear;Atleasttotry,andteachtheerringSoulNotwilfullymis-doing,butunwareMisled;thestubbornonlytosubdue.ThesegrowingthoughtsmyMothersoonperceivingBywordsattimescastforthinlyrejoyc’d,Andsaidtomeapart,higharethythoughtsOSon,butnourishthemandletthemsoar(230)TowhathighthsacredvertueandtrueworthCanraisethem,thoughaboveexamplehigh;BymatchlessDeedsexpressthymatchlessSire.Forknow,thouartnoSonofmortalman;ThoughmenesteemtheelowofParentage,ThyFatheristheEternalKing,whorulesAllHeavenandEarth,AngelsandSonsofmen,AmessengerfromGodfore-toldthybirthConceiv’dinmeaVirgin;hefore-toldThoushouldstbegreatandsitonDavid’sThrone,(240)AndofthyKingdomthereshouldbenoend.AtthyNativityagloriousQuireOfAngelsinthefieldsofBethlehemsungToShepherdswatchingattheirfoldsbynight,AndtoldthemtheMessiahnowwasborn,

Wheretheymightseehim,andtotheetheycame;DirectedtotheMangerwherethoulais’t,ForintheInnwasleftnobetterroom:AStar,notseenbeforeinHeavenappearingGuidedtheWiseMenthitherfromtheEast,(250)TohonourtheewithIncense,Myrrh,andGold,Bywhosebrightcourseledontheyfoundtheplace,AffirmingitthyStar,newgrav’ninHeaven,BywhichtheyknewtheeKingofIsraelborn.JustSimeonandPropheticAnna,warn’dByVision,foundtheeintheTemple,andspakeBeforetheAltarandthevestedPriest,Likethingsoftheetoallthatpresentstood.Thishavingheard,straitIagainrevolv’dTheLawandProphets,searchingwhatwaswrit(260)ConcerningtheMessiah,toourScribesKnownpartly,andsoonfoundofwhomtheyspakeIam;thischiefly,thatmywaymustlieThroughmanyahardassayeventothedeath,E’reIthepromis’dKingdomcanattain,OrworkRedemptionformankind,whosesinsFullweightmustbetransferr’duponmyhead.Yetneitherthusdisheartn’dordismay’d,ThetimeprefixtIwaited,whenbeholdTheBaptist,(ofwhosebirthIofthadheard,(270)Notknewbysight)nowcome,whowastocomeBeforeMessiahandhiswayprepare.

IasallotherstohisBaptismcame,WhichIbeliev’dwasfromabove;butheStraitknewme,andwithloudestvoiceproclaim’dMehim(foritwasshew’nhimsofromHeaven)MehimwhoseHarbingerhewas;andfirstRefus’donmehisBaptismtoconfer,Asmuchhisgreater,andwashardlywon;ButasIroseoutofthelavingstream,(280)Heavenopen’dhereternaldoors,fromwhenceTheSpiritdescendedonmelikeaDove,Andlastthesumofall,myFather’svoice,AudiblyheardfromHeav’n,pronounc’dmehis,MehisbelovedSon,inwhomaloneHewaswellpleas’d;bywhichIknewthetimeNowfull,thatInomoreshouldliveobscure,Butopenlybegin,asbestbecomesTheAuthoritywhichIderiv’dfromHeaven.AndnowbysomestrongmotionIamled(290)IntothisWilderness,towhatintentIlearnnotyet,perhapsIneednotknow;ForwhatconcernsmyknowledgeGodreveals.SospakeourMorningStartheninhisrise,AndlookingroundoneverysidebeheldApathlessDesert,duskwithhorridshades;Thewayhecamenothavingmark’d,returnWasdifficult,byhumanestepsuntrod;Andhestillonwasled,butwithsuchthoughtsAccompaniedofthingspastandtocome(300)

Lodg’dinhisbrest,aswellmightrecommendSuchSolitudebeforechoicestSociety.Fullfortydayshepass’d,whetheronhillSometimes,anoninshadyvale,eachnightUnderthecovertofsomeancientOak,OrCedar,todefendhimfromthedew,Orharbour’dinoneCave,isnotreveal’d;Nortastedhumanefood,norhungerfeltTillthosedaysended,hunger’dthenatlastAmongwildBeasts:theyathissightgrewmild,(310)Norsleepinghimnorwakingharm’d,hiswalkThefierySerpentfled,andnoxiousWorm,TheLionandfierceTigerglar’daloof.ButnowanagedmaninRuralweeds,Following,asseem’d,thequestofsomestrayEwe,Orwither’dstickstogather;whichmightserveAgainstaWintersdaywhenwindsblowkeen,Towarmhimwetreturn’dfromfieldatEve,Hesawapproach;whofirstwithcuriouseyePerus’dhim,thenwithwordsthusutt’redspake.(320)Sir,whatillchancehathbroughttheetothisplaceSofarfrompathorroadofmen,whopassInTrooporCaravan,forsinglenoneDurstever,whoreturn’d,anddroptnothereHisCarcass,pin’dwithhungerandwithdroughth?Iasktherather,andthemoreadmire,Forthattomethouseem’sttheman,whomlateOurnewbaptizingProphetattheFord

OfJordanhonour’dso,andcall’dtheeSonOfGod;Isawandheard,forwesometimes(330)Whodwellthiswild,constrain’dbywant,comeforthToTownorVillagenigh(nighestisfar)Whereoughtwehear,andcuriousaretohear,Whathapp’nsnew;Famealsofindsusout.TowhomtheSonofGod.WhobroughtmehitherWillbringmehence,nootherGuideIseek.ByMiraclehemay,reply’dtheSwain,WhatotherwayIseenot,forwehereLiveontoughrootsandstubs,tothirstinur’dMorethentheCamel,andtodrinkgofar,(340)Mentomuchmiseryandhardshipborn;ButifthoubetheSonofGod,CommandThatoutofthesehardstonesbemadetheebread;SoshaltthousavethyselfandusrelieveWithFood,whereofwewretchedseldomtaste.Heended,andtheSonofGodreply’d.Think’stthousuchforceinBread?isitnotwritten(ForIdiscerntheeotherthenthouseem’st)ManlivesnotbyBreadonly,buteachWordProceedingfromthemouthofGod;whofed(350)OurFathersherewithManna;intheMountMoseswasfortydays,noreatnordrank,AndfortydaysEliahwithoutfoodWandredthisbarrenwaste;thesameInow:Whydostthouthensuggesttomedistrust,

KnowingwhoIam,asIknowwhothouart?Whomthusanswer’dth’ArchFiendnowundisguis’d.‘Tistrue,IamthatSpiritunfortunate,Wholeagu’dwithmillionsmoreinrashrevoltKeptnotmyhappyStation,butwasdriv’n(360)Withthemfromblisstothebottomlessdeep,Yettothathideousplacenotsoconfin’dByrigourunconniving,butthatoftLeavingmydolorousPrisonIenjoyLargelibertytoroundthisGlobeofEarth,Orrangeinth’Air,norfromtheHeav’nofHeav’nsHathheexcludedmyresortsometimes.IcameamongtheSonsofGod,whenheGaveupintomyhandsUzzeanJobToprovehim,andillustratehishighworth;(370)AndwhentoallhisAngelshepropos’dTodrawtheproudKingAhabintofraudThathemightfallinRamoth,theydemurring,Iundertookthatoffice,andthetonguesOfallhisflatteringProphetsglibb’dwithlyesTohisdestruction,asIhadincharge.ForwhathebidsIdo;thoughIhavelostMuchlustreofmynativebrightness,lostTobebelov’dofGod,IhavenotlostTolove,atleastcontemplateandadmire(380)WhatIseeexcellentingood,orfair,Orvertuous,Ishouldsohavelostallsense.Whatcanbethenlessinmethendesire

Toseetheeandapproachthee,whomIknowDeclar’dtheSonofGod,tohearattentThywisdom,andbeholdthyGod-likedeeds?MengenerallythinkmemuchafoeToallmankind:whyshouldI?theytomeNeverdidwrongorviolence,bythemIlostnotwhatIlost,ratherbythem(390)Igain’dwhatIhavegain’d,andwiththemdwellCopartnerintheseRegionsoftheWorld,Ifnotdisposer;lendthemoftmyaid,Oftmyadvicebypresagesandsigns,Andanswers,oracles,portentsanddreams,Wherebeytheymaydirecttheirfuturelife.Envytheysayexcitesme,thustogainCompanionsofmymiseryandwo.Atfirstitmaybe;butlongsincewithwoNeareracquainted,nowIfeelbyproof,(400)Thatfellowshipinpaindividesnotsmart,Norlightensaughteachmanspeculiarload.Smallconsolationthen,wereManadjoyn’d:Thiswoundsmemost(whatcanitless)thatMan,Manfall’n,shallberestor’d,Inevermore.TowhomourSavioursternlythusreply’d.Deservedlythougriev’st,compos’doflyesFromthebeginning,andinlieswiltend;Whoboast’streleasefromHell,andleavetocomeIntotheHeav’nofHeavens;thoucom’stindeed,(410)Asapoormiserablecaptivethrall,

ComestotheplacewherehebeforehadsatAmongthePrimeinSplendour,nowdepos’d,Ejected,emptyed,gaz’d,unpityed,shun’d,AspectacleofruinorofscornToalltheHostofHeaven;thehappyplaceImpartstotheenohappiness,nojoy,Ratherinflamesthytorment,representingLostbliss,totheenomorecommunicable,SonevermoreinHellthenwheninHeaven.(420)ButthouartserviceabletoHeaven’sKing.WiltthouimputetoobediencewhatthyfearExtorts,orpleasuretodoillexcites?Whatbutthymalicemov’dtheetomisdeemOfrighteousJob,thencruellytoafflicthimWithallinflictions,buthispatiencewon?Theotherservicewasthychosentask,Tobealyerinfourhundredmouths;Forlyingisthysustenance,thyfood.Yetthoupretend’sttotruth;allOracles(430)Bytheearegiv’n,andwhatconfestmoretrueAmongtheNations?thathathbeenthycraft,Bymixingsomewhattruetoventmorelyes.Butwhathavebeenthyanswers,whatbutdarkAmbiguousandwithdoublesensedeluding,Whichtheywhoask’dhaveseldomunderstood,Andnotwellunderstoodasgoodnotknown?Whoeverbyconsultingatthyshrine

Return’dthewiser,orthemoreinstructToflyeorfollowwhatconcern’dhimmost,(440)Andrunnotsoonertohisfatalsnare?ForGodhathjustlygiv’ntheNationsupTothyDelusions;justly,sincetheyfellIdolatrous;butwhenhispurposeisAmongthemtodeclarehisProvidenceTotheenotknown,whencehastthouthenthytruth,ButfromhimorhisAngelsPresidentIneveryProvince,whothemselvesdisdainingToapproachthyTemples,givetheeincommandWhattothesmallesttittlethoushaltsay(450)TothyAdorers;thouwithtremblingfear,OrlikeaFawningParasiteobey’st;Thentothyselfascrib’stthetruthfore-told.Butthisthygloryshallbesoonretrench’d;NomoreshaltthoubyoraclingabuseTheGentiles;henceforthOraclesareceast,AndthounomorewithPompandSacrificeShaltbeenquir’datDelphosorelsewhere,Atleastinvain,fortheyshallfindtheemute.GodhathnowsenthislivingOracle(460)IntotheWorld,toteachhisfinalwill,AndsendshisSpiritofTruthhenceforthtodwellInpiousHearts,aninwardOracleToalltruthrequisiteformentoknow.SospakeourSaviour;butthesubtleFiend,Thoughinlystungwithangeranddisdain,

Dissembl’d,andthisAnswersmoothreturn’d.Sharplythouhastinsistedonrebuke,Andurg’dmehardwithdoings,whichnotwillButmiseryhathrestedfromme;where(470)Easilycanstthoufindonemiserable,Andnotinforc’doft-timestopartfromtruth;Ifitmaystandhimmoreinsteadtolye,Sayandunsay,feign,flatter,orabjure?Butthouartplac’taboveme,thouartLord;FromtheeIcanandmustsubmissendureCheckorreproof,andgladtoscapesoquit.Hardarethewaysoftruth,androughtowalk,Smoothonthetonguediscourst,pleasingtoth’ear,AndtuneableasSilvanPipeorSong;(480)WhatwonderthenifIdelighttohearHerdictatesfromthymouth?mostmenadmireVertue,whofollownotherlore:permitmeToheartheewhenIcome(sincenomancomes)Andtalkatleast,thoughIdespairtoattain.ThyFather,whoisholy,wiseandpure,SufferstheHypocriteorAtheousPriestTotreadhisSacredCourts,andministerAbouthisAltar,handlingholythings,Prayingorvowing,andvouchsaf’dhisvoice(490)ToBalaamReprobate,aProphetyetInspir’d;disdainnotsuchaccesstome.TowhomourSaviourwithunalter’dbrow.Thycominghither,thoughIknowthyscope,

Ibidnotorforbid;doasthoufind’stPermissionfromabove;thoucanstnotmore.Headdednot;andSatanbowinglowHisgraydissimulation,disappear’dIntothinAirdiffus’d:fornowbeganNightwithhersullenwingtodouble-shade(500)TheDesert;Fowlsinthirclaynestswerecouch’t;AndnowwildBeastscameforththewoodstoroam.

TheEndoftheFirstBook.

Book II

Meanwhilethenew-baptiz’d,whoyetremain’dAtJordanwiththeBaptist,andhadseenHimwhomtheyheardsolateexpresslycall’dJesusMessiahSonofGoddeclar’d,AndonthathighAuthorityhadbeliev’d,Andwithhimtalkt,andwithhimlodg’d,ImeanAndrewandSimon,famousafterknownWithothersthoughinHolyWritnotnam’d,Nowmissinghimthirjoysolatelyfound,Solatelyfound,andsoabruptlygone,(10)Begantodoubt,anddoubtedmanydays,Andasthedaysincreas’d,increas’dthirdoubt:Sometimestheythoughthemightbeonlyshewn,AndforatimecaughtuptoGod,asonceMoseswasintheMount,andmissinglong;AndthegreatThisbitewhoonfierywheelsRodeuptoHeaven,yetonceagaintocome.ThereforeasthoseyoungProphetsthenwithcareSoughtlostEliah,soineachplacetheseNightoBethabara;inJerico(20)TheCityofPalms,Ænon,andSalemOld,MachærusandeachTownorCitywall’dOnthissidethebroadlakeGenezaret,

OrinPerea,butreturn’dinvain.ThenonthebankofJordan,byaCreek:WherewindswithReeds,andOsierswhisp’ringplayPlainFishermen,nogreatermenthemcall,CloseinaCottagelowtogethergotThirunexpectedlossandplaintsoutbreath’d.Alas,fromwhathighhopetowhatrelapse(30)Unlook’dforarewefall’n,oureyesbeheldMessiahcertainlynowcome,solongExpectedofourFathers;wehaveheardHiswords,hiswisdomfullofgraceandtruth,Now,now,forsure,deliveranceisathand,TheKingdomshalltoIsraelberestor’d:Thuswerejoyc’d,butsoonourjoyisturn’dIntoperplexityandnewamaze:Forwhitherishegone,whataccidentHathrapthimfromus?willhenowretire(40)Afterappearance,andagainprolongOurexpectation?GodofIsrael,SendthyMessiahforth,thetimeiscome;BeholdtheKingsoftheEarthhowtheyoppressThychosen,towhathighththirpow’runjustTheyhaveexalted,andbehindthemcastAllfearofthee,ariseandvindicateThyGlory,freethypeoplefromthiryoke,Butletuswait;thusfarhehathperform’d,SenthisAnointed,andtousreveal’dhim,(50)ByhisgreatProphet,pointedatandshown,

Inpublick,andwithhimwehaveconvers’d;Letusbegladofthis,andallourfearsLayonhisProvidence;hewillnotfailNorwillwithdrawhimnow,norwillrecall,Mockuswithhisblestsight,thensnatchhimhence,Soonweshallseeourhope,ourjoyreturn.ThustheyoutoftheirplaintsnewhoperesumeTofindwhomatthefirsttheyfoundunsought:ButtohisMotherMary,whenshesaw(60)Othersreturn’dfromBaptism,notherSon,NorleftatJordan,tydingsofhimnone;Withinherbrest,thoughcalm;herbrestthoughpure,Motherlycaresandfearsgothead,andrais’dSometroubl’dthoughts,whichsheinsighsthusclad.OwhatavailsmenowthathonourhighTohaveconceiv’dofGod,orthatsalute,Halehighlyfavour’d,amongwomenblest;WhileItosorrowsamnolessadvanc’t,Andfearsaseminent,abovethelot(70)Ofotherwomen,bythebirthIbore,InsuchaseasonbornwhenscarceaShedCouldbeobtain’dtoshelterhimormeFromthebleakair;aStablewasourwarmth,AMangerhis;yetsoonenforc’ttoflyeThenceintoEgypt,tilltheMurd’rousKingWeredead,whosoughthislife,and,missingfill’dWithInfantbloodthestreetsofBethlehem;FromEgypthomereturn’d,inNazareth

Hathbeenourdwellingmanyyears,hislife(80)Private,unactive,calm,contemplative,LittlesuspicioustoanyKing;butnowFullgrowntoMan,acknowledg’d,asIhear,ByJohntheBaptist,andinpublickshown,Sonown’dfromHeavenbyhisFather’svoice;Ilook’tforsomegreatchange;toHonour?no,Buttrouble,asoldSimeonplainfore-told,ThattothefallandrisingheshouldbeOfmanyinIsrael,andtoasignSpokenagainst,thatthroughmyverySoul(90)Aswordshallpierce;thisismyfavour’dlot,MyExaltationtoAfflictionshigh;AfflictedImaybe,itseems,andblest;Iwillnotarguethat,norwillrepine.Butwheredelayshenow?somegreatintentConcealshim:whentwelveyearshescarcehadseen,Ilosthim,butsofound,aswellIsawHecouldnotlosehimself;butwentaboutHisFather’sbusiness;whathemeantImus’d,Sinceunderstand;muchmorehisabsencenow(100)Thuslongtosomegreatpurposeheobscures.ButItowaitwithpatienceaminur’d;Myhearthathbeenastore-houselongofthingsAndsayingslaidup,portendingstrangeevents.ThusMaryponderingoft,andofttomindRecallingwhatremarkablyhadpass’d

SincefirstherSalutationheard,withthoughtsMeeklycompos’dawaitedthefulfilling:ThewhileherSontracingtheDesertwild,SolebutwithholiestMeditationsfed,(110)Intohimselfdescended,andatonceAllhisgreatworktocomebeforehimset;Howtobegin,howtoaccomplishbestHisendofbeingonEarth,andmissionhigh:ForSatanwithslyeprefacetoreturnHadlefthimvacant,andwithspeedwasgonUptothemiddleRegionofthickAir,WhereallhisPotentatesinCouncilsate;Therewithoutsignofboast,orsignofjoy,Sollicitousandblankhethusbegan.(120)Princes,HeavensantientSons,ÆtherealThrones,DemonianSpiritsnow,fromtheElementEachofhisreignallotted,rightliercall’d,PowersofFire,Air,Water,andEarthbeneath,SomayweholdourplaceandthesemildseatsWithoutnewtrouble;suchanEnemyIsris’ntoinvadeus,whonolessThreat’nsourexpulsiondowntoHell;I,asIundertook,andwiththevoteConsentinginfullfrequencewasimpowr’d,(130)Havefoundhim,view’dhim,tastedhim,butfindFarotherlabourtobeundergonThenwhenIdealtwithAdamfirstofMen,ThoughAdambyhisWivesallurementfell,

HowevertothisManinferiorfar,IfhebeManbyMotherssideatleast,WithmorethenhumanegiftsfromHeavenadorn’d,Perfectionsabsolute,Gracesdivine,AndamplitudeofmindtogreatestDeeds.ThereforeIamreturn’d,lestconfidence(140)OfmysuccesswithEveinParadiseDeceiveyetoperswasionover-sureOflikesucceedinghere;IsummonallRathertobeinreadinesswithhandOrcounseltoassist;lestI,whoerstThoughtnonemyequal,nowbeover-match’d.SospaketheoldSerpentdoubting,andfromallWithclamourwasassur’dthirutmostaidAthiscommand;whenfromamidstthemroseBelialthedissolutestSpiritthatfell,(150)Thesensuallest,andafterAsmodaiThefleshliestIncubus,andthusadvis’d.Setwomeninhiseyeandinhiswalk,Amongdaughtersofmenthefairestfound;ManyareineachRegionpassingfairAsthenoonSkie;moreliketoGoddessesThenMortalCreatures,gracefulanddiscreet,ExpertinamorousArts,enchantingtonguesPerswasive,VirginmajestywithmildAndsweetallay’d,yetterribletoapproach,(160)Skill’dtoretire,andinretiringdrawHeartsafterthemtangl’dinAmorousNets.

Suchobjecthaththepowertosoft’nandtameSeveresttemper,smooththerugged’stbrow,Enerve,andwithvoluptuoushopedissolve,Drawoutwithcredulousdesire,andleadAtwillthemanliest,resolutestbrest,AstheMagnetichardestIrondraws.Women,whennothingelse,beguil’dtheheartOfwisestSolomon,andmadehimbuild,(170)AndmadehimbowtotheGodsofhisWives.TowhomquickanswerSatanthusreturn’d.Belial,inmuchunevenscalethouweigh’stAllothersbythyself;becauseofoldThouthyselfdoat’stonwomankind,admiringThirshape,thircolour,andattractivegrace,Noneare,thouthink’st,buttakenwithsuchtoys.BeforetheFloodthouwiththylustyCrew,Falsetitl’dSonsofGod,roamingtheEarthCastwantoneyesonthedaughtersofmen,(180)Andcoupl’dwiththem,andbegotarace.Havewenotseen,orbyrelationheard,InCourtsandRegalChambershowthoulurk’st,InWoodorGrovebymossieFountainside,InValleyorGreenMeadowtoway-laySomebeautyrare,Calisto,Clymene,Daphne,orSemele,Antiopa,OrAmymone,Syrinx,manymoreToolong,thenlay’stthyscapesonnamesador’d,

Apollo,Neptune,Jupiter,orPan,(190)Satyr,orFawn,orSilvan?ButthesehauntsDelightnotall;amongtheSonsofMen,HowmanyhavewithasmilemadesmallaccountOfbeautyandherlures,easilyscorn’dAllherassaults,onworthierthingsintent?RememberthatPelleanConquerour,Ayouth,howalltheBeautiesoftheEastHeslightlyview’d,andslightlyover-pass’d;Howheesirnam’dofAfricadismiss’dInhisprimeyouththefairIberianmaid.(200)ForSolomonheliv’datease,andfullOfhonour,wealth,highfare,aim’dnotbeyondHigherdesignthentoenjoyhisState;ThencetothebaitofWomenlayexpos’d;ButhewhomweattemptiswiserfarThenSolomon,ofmoreexaltedmind,MadeandsetwhollyontheaccomplishmentOfgreatestthings;whatwomanwillyoufind,ThoughofthisAgethewonderandthefame,Onwhomhisleisurewillvouchsafeaneye(210)Offonddesire?orshouldsheconfident,AssittingQueenador’donBeautiesThrone,DescendwithallherwinningcharmsbegirtToenamour,astheZoneofVenusonceWroughtthateffectonJove,soFablestell;HowwouldonelookfromhisMajestickbrowSeatedasonthetopofVertueshill,

Discount’nanceherdespis’d,andputtoroutAllherarray;herfemalepridedeject,Orturntoreverentawe?forBeautystands(220)IntheadmirationonlyofweakmindsLedcaptive;ceasetoadmire,andallherPlumesFallflatandshrinkintoatrivialtoy,Ateverysuddenslightingquiteabasht:ThereforewithmanlierobjectswemusttryHisconstancy,withsuchashavemoreshewOfworth,ofhonour,glory,andpopularpraise;Rockswhereongreatestmenhaveoftestwreck’d;OrthatwhichonlyseemstosatisfieLawfuldesiresofNature,notbeyond;(230)AndnowIknowhehungerswherenofoodIstobefound,inthewideWilderness;Therestcommittome,IshallletpassNoadvantage,andhisstrengthasoftassay.Heceas’d,andheardthirgrantinloudacclaim;ThenforthwithtohimtakesachosenbandOfSpiritslikesttohimselfinguileTobeathand,andathisbeckappear,IfcauseweretounfoldsomeactiveSceneOfvariouspersonseachtoknowhispart;(240)ThentotheDeserttakeswiththesehisflight;WherestillfromshadetoshadetheSonofGodAfterfortydaysfastinghadremain’d,Nowhungringfirst,andtohimselfthussaid.Wherewillthisend?fourtimestendaysIhavepass’d

Wandringthiswoodymaze,andhumanefoodNortasted,norhadappetite;thatFastToVertueIimputenot,orcountpartOfwhatIsufferhere;ifNatureneednot,OrGodsupportNaturewithoutrepast(250)Thoughneeding,whatpraiseisittoendure?ButnowIfeelIhunger,whichdeclares,Naturehathneedofwhatsheasks;yetGodCansatisfiethatneedsomeotherway,Thoughhungerstillremain:soitremainWithoutthisbodieswasting,Icontentme,AndfromthestingofFaminefearnoharm,Normindit,fedwithbetterthoughtsthatfeedMeehungringmoretodomyFatherswill.Itwasthehourofnight,whenthustheSon(260)Commun’dinsilentwalk,thenlaidhimdownUnderthehospitablecovertnighOfTreesthickinterwoven;thereheslept,Anddream’d,asappetiteiswonttodream,Ofmeatsanddrinks,Naturesrefreshmentsweet;Himthought,hebytheBrookofCherithstoodAndsawtheRavenswiththeirhornybeaksFoodtoElijahbringingEvenandMorn,Thoughravenous,taughttoabstainfromwhattheybrought:HesawtheProphetalsohowhefled(270)IntotheDesert,andhowtherehesleptUnderaJuniper;thenhowawakt,

HefoundhisSupperonthecoalsprepar’d,AndbytheAngelwasbidriseandeat,Andeatthesecondtimeafterrepose,Thestrengthwhereofsuffic’dhimfortydays;SometimesthatwithElijahhepartook,OrasaguestwithDanielathispulse.Thusworeoutnight,andnowtheHeraldLarkLefthisground-nest,hightowringtodescry(280)Themornsapproach,andgreetherwithhisSong:AslightlyfromhisgrassyCouchuproseOurSaviour,andfoundallwasbutadream,Fastinghewenttosleep,andfastingwak’d.Uptoahillanonhisstepsherear’d,Fromwhosehightoptokentheprospectround,IfCottagewereinview,Sheep-coteorHerd;ButCottage,HerdorSheep-cotenonehesaw,OnlyinabottomsawapleasantGrove,WithchauntoftunefulBirdsresoundingloud;(290)Thitherhebenthisway,determin’dthereTorestatnoon,andentr’dsoontheshadeHighrooftandwalksbeneath,andalleysbrownThatopen’dinthemidstawoodyScene,Naturesownworkitseem’d(NaturetaughtArt)AndtoaSuperstitiouseyethehauntOfWood-GodsandWood-Nymphs;heview’ditround,Whensuddenlyamanbeforehimstood,Notrusticasbefore,butseemlierclad,AsoneinCity,orCourt,orPalacebred,(300)

Andwithfairspeechthesewordstohimaddress’d.WithgrantedleaveofficiousIreturn,ButmuchmorewonderthattheSonofGodInthiswildsolitudesolongshouldbideOfallthingsdestitute,andwellIknow,Notwithouthunger.Othersofsomenote,Asstorytells,havetrodthisWilderness;TheFugitiveBond-womanwithherSonOutcastNebaioth,yetfoundhereliefByaprovidingAngel;alltherace(310)OfIsraelherehadfamish’d,hadnotGodRain’dfromHeavenManna;andthatProphetboldNativeofThebeswandringherewasfedTwicebyavoiceinvitinghimtoeat.Oftheethesefortydaysnonehathregard,Fortyandmoredesertedhereindeed.TowhomthusJesus;whatconclud’stthouhence?Theyallhadneed,Iasthouseesthavenone.Howhastthouhungerthen?Satanreply’d,TellmeifFoodwerenowbeforetheeset,(320)Would’stthounoteat?ThereafterasIlikeThegiver,answer’dJesus.WhyshouldthatCausethyrefusal,saidthesubtleFiend,HastthounotrighttoallCreatedthings,OwenotallCreaturesbyjustrighttotheeDutyandService,nortostaytillbid,Buttenderalltheirpower?normentionIMeatsbytheLawunclean,oroffer’dfirst

ToIdols,thoseyoungDanielcouldrefuse;Norproffer’dbyanEnemy,thoughwho(330)Wouldscruplethat,withwantopprest?beholdNatureasham’d,orbettertoexpress,Troubl’dthatthoushouldsthunger,hathpurvey’dFromalltheElementsherchoiceststoreTotreattheeasbeseems,andasherLordWithhonour,onlydeigntositandeat.Hespakenodream,forashiswordshadend,OurSaviourliftinguphiseyesbeheldInamplespaceunderthebroadestshadeATablerichlyspred,inregalmode,(340)Withdishespill’d,andmeatsofnoblestsortAndsavour,Beastsofchase,orFowlofgame,Inpastrybuilt,orfromthespit,orboyl’d,Gris-amber-steam’d;allFishfromSeaorShore,Freshet,orpurlingBrook,ofshellorfin,Andexquisitestname,forwhichwasdrain’dPontusandLucrineBay,andAfricCoast.Alashowsimple,totheseCatescompar’d,WasthatcrudeApplethatdivertedEve!Andatastatelyside-boardbythewine(350)Thatfragrantsmelldiffus’d,inorderstoodTallstriplingyouthsrichclad,offairerhewThenGanymedorHylas,distantmoreUndertheTreesnowtrip’d,nowsolemnstoodNymphsofDiana’strain,andNaiades

WithfruitsandflowersfromAmalthea’shorn,Andladiesofth’Hesperides,thatseem’dFairerthenfeign’dofold,orfabl’dsinceOfFairyDamselsmetinForestwideByKnightsofLogres,orofLyones,(360)LancelotorPelleas,orPellenore,AndallthewhileHarmoniousAirswereheardOfchimingstrings,orcharmingpipesandwindsOfgentlestgaleArabianodorsfann’dFromtheirsoftwings,andFlora’searliestsmells.SuchwastheSplendour,andtheTempternowHisinvitationearnestlyrenew’d.WhatdoubtstheSonofGodtositandeat?ThesearenotFruitsforbidden,nointerdictDefendsthetouchingoftheseviandspure,(370)Thirtastenoknowledge,worksatleastofevil,Butlifepreserves,destroyslife’senemy,Hunger,withsweetrestorativedelight.AlltheseareSpiritsofAir,andWoods,andSprings,ThygentleMinisters,whocometopayTheehomage,andacknowledgetheethirLord:Whatdoubt’stthouSonofGod?sitdownandeat.TowhomthusJesustemperatelyreply’d:Said’stthounotthattoallthingsIhadright?Andwhowithholdsmypow’rthatrighttouse?(380)ShallIreceivebygiftwhatofmyown,Whenandwherelikesmebest,Icancommand?Icanatwill,doubtnot,assoonasthou,

CommandaTableinthisWilderness,AndcallswiftflightsofAngelsministrantArray’dinGloryonmycuptoattend:Whyshouldstthouthenobtrudethisdiligence,Invain,wherenoacceptanceitcanfind,Andwithmyhungerwhathastthoutodo?ThypompousDelicaciesIcontemn,(390)Andcountthyspeciousgiftsnogiftsbutguiles.Towhomthusanswer’dSatan,malecontent:ThatIhavealsopowertogivethouseest,Ifofthatpow’rIbringtheevoluntaryWhatImighthavebestow’donwhomIpleas’d,AndratheropportunelyinthisplaceChosetoimparttothyapparentneed,Whyshouldstthounotacceptit?butIseeWhatIcandoorofferissuspect;Ofthesethingsothersquicklywilldispose(400)Whosepainshaveearn’dthefarfetspoil.WiththatBothTableandProvisionvanish’dquiteWithsoundofHarpieswings,andTalonsheard;OnlytheimportuneTempterstillremain’d,Andwiththesewordshistemptationpursu’d.Byhunger,thateachotherCreaturetames,Thouartnottobeharm’d,thereforenotmov’d;Thytemperanceinvinciblebesides,Fornoallurementyieldstoappetite,Andallthyheartissetonhighdesigns,(410)Highactions;butwherewithtobeatchiev’d?

Greatactsrequiregreatmeansofenterprise,Thouartunknown,unfriended,lowofbirth,ACarpenterthyFatherknown,thyselfBredupinpovertyandstreightsathome;LostinaDeserthereandhunger-bit:WhichwayorfromwhathopedostthouaspireTogreatness?whenceAuthorityderiv’st,WhatFollowers,whatRetinuecanstthougain,OratthyheelsthedizzyMultitude,(420)Longerthenthoucanstfeedthemonthycost?MoneybringsHonour,Friends,Conquest,andRealms;Whatrais’dAntipatertheEdomite,AndhisSonHerodplac’donJuda’sThrone;(Thythrone)butgoldthatgothimpuissantfriends?Therefore,ifatgreatthingsthouwouldstarrive,GetRichesfirst,getWealth,andTreasureheap,Notdifficult,ifthouhearkentome,Richesaremine,Fortuneisinmyhand;TheywhomIfavourthriveinwealthamain,(430)WhileVirtue,Valour,Wisdom,sitinwant.TowhomthusJesuspatientlyreply’d;YetWealthwithoutthesethreeisimpotent,Togaindominionortokeepitgain’d.WitnessthoseantientEmpiresoftheEarth,Inhighthofallthirflowingwealthdissolv’d:Butmenendu’dwiththesehaveoftattain’dInlowestpovertytohighestdeeds;

GideonandJephtha,andtheShepherdlad,Whoseoff-springontheThroneofJudasat(440)SomanyAges,andshallyetregainThatseat,andreigninIsraelwithoutend.AmongtheHeathen,(forthroughouttheWorldTomeisnotunknownwhathathbeendoneWorthyofMemorial)canstthounotrememberQuintius,Fabricius,Curius,Regulus?

ForIesteemthosenamesofmensopoorWhocoulddomightythings,andcouldcontemnRichesthoughoffer’dfromthehandofKings.Andwhatinmeseemswanting,butthatI(450)MayalsointhispovertyassoonAccomplishwhattheydid,perhapsandmore?ExtolnotRichesthen,thetoylofFools,Thewisemanscumbranceifnotsnare,moreaptToslackenVirtue,andabateheredge,Thenprompthertodoaughtmaymeritpraise.WhatifwithlikeaversionIrejectRichesandRealms;yetnotforthataCrown,Goldeninshew,isbutawreathofthorns,Bringsdangers,troubles,cares,andsleeplessnights(460)TohimwhowearstheRegalDiadem,Whenonhisshoulderseachmansburdenlies;ForthereinstandstheofficeofaKing,HisHonour,Vertue,MeritandchiefPraise,ThatforthePublickallthisweighthebears.Yethewhoreignswithinhimself,andrules

Passions,Desires,andFears,ismoreaKing;Whicheverywiseandvertuousmanattains:Andwhoattainsnot,illaspirestoruleCitiesofmen,orhead-strongMultitudes,(470)SubjecthimselftoAnarchywithin,Orlawlesspassionsinhimwhichheserves.ButtoguideNationsinthewayoftruthBysavingDoctrine,andfromerrourleadToknow,andknowingworshipGodaright,IsyetmoreKingly;thisattractstheSoul,Governstheinnerman,thenoblerpart,Thatothero’rethebodyonlyreigns,Andoftbyforce,whichtoagenerousmindSoreigningcanbenosinceredelight.(480)BesidestogiveaKingdomhathbeenthoughtGreaterandnoblerdone,andtolaydownFarmoremagnanimous,thentoassume.Richesareneedlessthen,bothforthemselves,Andforthyreasonwhytheyshouldbesought,TogainaScepter,oftestbettermiss’t.

TheEndoftheSecondBook.

Book III

SospaketheSonofGod,andSatanstoodAwhileasmuteconfoundedwhattosay,Whattoreply,confutedandconvinc’tOfhisweakarguing,andfallaciousdrift;AtlengthcollectingallhisSerpentwiles,Withsoothingwordsrenew’d,himthusaccosts.Iseethouknow’stwhatisofusetoknow,Whatbesttosaycanstsay,todocanstdo;Thyactionstothywordsaccord,thywordsTothylargeheartgiveutterancedue,thyheart(10)Conteinsofgood,wise,just,theperfectshape.ShouldKingsandNationsfromthymouthconsult,ThyCounselwouldbeastheOracleUrimandThummim,thoseoraculousgemsOnAaron’sbreast:ortongueofSeersoldInfallible;orwertthousoughttodeedsThatmightrequireth’arrayofwar,thyskillOfconductwouldbesuch,thatalltheworldCouldnotsustainthyProwess,orsubsistInbattel,thoughagainstthyfewinarms.(20)TheseGod-likeVertueswhereforedostthouhide?Affectingprivatelife,ormoreobscureInsavageWilderness,whereforedeprive

AllEarthherwonderatthyacts,thyselfThefameandglory,glorytherewardThatsoleexcitestohighattemptstheflameOfmosterectedSpirits,mosttemper’dpureÆtherial,whoallpleasureselsedespise,Alltreasuresandallgainesteemasdross,Anddignitiesandpowersallbutthehighest?(30)Thyyearsareripe,andover-ripe,theSonOfMacedonianPhiliphade’retheseWonAsiaandtheThroneofCyrusheldAthisdispose,youngScipiohadbroughtdownTheCarthaginianpride,youngPompeyquell’dThePontickingandintriumphhadrode.Yetyears,andtoripeyearsjudgmentmature,Quenchnotthethirstofglory,butaugment.GreatJulius,whomnowalltheworldadmiresThemorehegrewinyears,themoreinflam’d(40)Withglory,weptthathehadliv’dsolongInglorious:butthouyetartnottoolate.TowhomourSaviourcalmlythusreply’d.ThouneitherdostperswademetoseekwealthForEmpiressake,norEmpiretoaffectForgloriessakebyallthyargument.Forwhatisglorybuttheblazeoffame,Thepeoplespraise,ifalwayspraiseunmixt?Andwhatthepeoplebutaherdconfus’d,Amiscellaneousrabble,whoextol(50)Thingsvulgar,andwellweigh’d,scarceworththepraise,

Theypraiseandtheyadmiretheyknownotwhat;Andknownotwhom,butasoneleadstheother;Andwhatdelighttobebysuchextoll’d,Toliveuponthirtonguesandbethirtalk,Ofwhomtobedisprais’dwerenosmallpraise?Hislotwhodaresbesingularlygood.Th’intelligentamongthemandthewiseArefew,andgloryscarceoffewisrais’d.Thisistruegloryandrenown,whenGod(60)LookingontheEarth,withapprobationmarksThejustman,anddivulgeshimthroughHeavenToallhisAngels,whowithtrueapplauseRecounthispraises;thushedidtoJob,WhentoextendhisfamethroughHeavenandEarth,Asthoutothyreproachmaystwellremember,Heask’dthee,hastthouseenmyservantJob?FamoushewasinHeaven,onEarthlessknown;Wheregloryisfalseglory,attributedTothingsnotglorious,mennotworthyoffame.(70)TheyerrwhocountitglorioustosubdueByConquestfarandwide,toover-runLargeCountries,andinfieldgreatBattelswin,GreatCitiesbyassault:whatdotheseWorthies,Butrobandspoil,burn,slaughter,andenslavePeaceableNations,neighbouring,orremote,MadeCaptive,yetdeservingfreedommoreThenthosethirConquerours,wholeavebehindNothingbutruinwheresoe’retheyrove,

Andalltheflourishingworksofpeacedestroy,(80)Thenswellwithpride,andmustbetitl’dGods,GreatBenefactorsofmankind,Deliverers,Worship’twithTemple,Priest,andSacrifice;OneistheSonofJove,ofMarstheother,TillConquerourDeathdiscoverthemscarcemen,Rowlinginbrutishvices,anddeform’d,Violentorshamefuldeaththirduereward.Butiftherebeingloryaughtofgood,Itmaybymeansfardifferentbeattain’dWithoutambition,war,orviolence;(90)Bydeedsofpeace,bywisdomeminent,Bypatience,temperance;ImentionstillHimwhomthywrongswithSaintlypatienceborn,MadefamousinaLandandtimesobscure;WhonamesnotnowwithhonourpatientJob?PoorSocrates(whonextmorememorable?)Bywhathetaughtandsuffer’dforsodoing,Fortruthssakesufferingdeathunjust,livesnowEqualinfametoproudestConquerours.Yetifforfameandgloryaughtbedone,(100)Aughtsuffer’d;ifyoungAfricanforfameHiswastedCountryfreedfromPunicrage,Thedeedbecomesunprais’d,themanatleast,Andloses,thoughbutverbal,hisreward.ShallIseekglorythen,asvainmenseekOftnotdeserv’d?Iseeknotmine,buthis

Whosentme,andtherebywitnesswhenceIam.TowhomtheTemptermurmuringthusreply’d.Thinknotsoslightofglory;thereinleastResemblingthygreatFather:heseeksglory,(110)Andforhisgloryallthingsmade,allthingsOrdersandgoverns,norcontentinHeavenByallhisAngelsglorifi’d,requiresGloryfrommen,fromallmengoodorbad,Wiseorunwise,nodifference,noexemption;AboveallSacrifice,orhallow’dgiftGloryherequires,andgloryhereceivesPromiscuousfromallNations,Jew,orGreek,OrBarbarous,norexceptionhathdeclar’d;Fromushisfoespronounc’tgloryheexacts.(120)TowhomourSaviourferventlyreply’d.Andreason;sincehiswordallthingsproduc’d,Thoughchieflynotforgloryasprimeend,Buttoshewforthhisgoodness,andimpartHisgoodcommunicabletoeverysoulFreely;ofwhomwhatcouldhelessexpectThengloryandbenediction,thatisthanks,Theslightest,easiest,readiestrecompenceFromthemwhocouldreturnhimnothingelse,Andnotreturningthatwouldlikeliestrender(130)Contemptinstead,dishonour,obloquy?Hardrecompense,unsutablereturnForsomuchgood,somuchbeneficence.Butwhyshouldmanseekglory?whoofhisown

Hathnothing,andtowhomnothingbelongsButcondemnation,ignominy,andshame?Whoforsomanybenefitsreceiv’dTurn’drecreanttoGod,ingrateandfalse,Andsoofalltruegoodhimselfdespoil’d,Yet,sacrilegious,tohimselfwouldtake(140)ThatwhichtoGodaloneofrightbelongs;YetsomuchbountyisinGod,suchgrace,Thatwhoadvancehisglory,notthirown,Themhehimselftoglorywilladvance.SospaketheSonofGod;andhereagainSatanhadnottoanswer,butstoodstruckWithguiltofhisownsin,forhehimselfInsatiableofgloryhadlostall,YetofanotherPleabethoughthimsoon.Ofgloryasthouwilt,saidhe,sodeem,(150)Worthornotworththeseeking,letitpass:ButtoaKingdomthouartborn,ordain’dTosituponthyFatherDavid’sThrone;ByMotherssidethyFather,thoughthyrightBenowinpowerfulhands,thatwillnotpartEasilyfrompossessionwonwitharms;Judæanowandallthepromis’dlandReduc’taProvinceunderRomanyoke,ObeysTiberius;norisalwaysrul’dWithtemperatesway;ofthavetheyviolated(160)TheTemple,ofttheLawwithfoulaffronts,Abominationsrather,asdidonce

Antiochus:andthink’stthoutoregainThyrightbysittingstillorthusretiring?SodidnotMachabeus:heindeedRetir’duntotheDesert,butwitharms;Ando’reamightyKingsooftprevail’dThatbystronghandhisFamilyobtain’d,ThoughPriests,theCrown,andDavid’sThroneusurp’d,WithModinandherSuburbsoncecontent.(170)IfKingdommovetheenot,letmovetheeZeal,AndDuty;ZealandDutyarenotslow;ButonOccasionsforelockwatchfulwait.Theythemselvesratherareoccasionbest,ZealofthyFathershouse,DutytofreeThyCountryfromherHeathenservitude;Soshaltthoubestfullfil,bestverifieTheProphetsold,whosungthyendlessraign,Thehappierraignthesooneritbegins,Raignthen;whatcanstthoubetterdothewhile?(180)TowhomourSaviouranswerthusreturn’d.Allthingsarebestfulfil’dintheirduetime,Andtimethereisforallthings,Truthhathsaid:IfofmyraignPropheticWrithathtold,Thatitshallneverend,sowhenbeginTheFatherinhispurposehathdecreed,Heinwhosehandalltimesandseasonsroul.WhatifhehathdecreedthatIshallfirstBetry’dinhumblestate,andthingsadverse,

Bytribulations,injuries,insults,(190)Contempts,andscorns,andsnares,andviolence,Suffering,abstaining,quietlyexpectingWithoutdistrustordoubt,thathemayknowWhatIcansuffer,howobey?whobestCansuffer,bestcando;bestreign,whofirstWellhathobey’d;justtryale’reImeritMyexaltationwithoutchangeorend.ButwhatconcernsittheewhenIbeginMyeverlastingKingdom?WhyartthouSollicitous,whatmovesthyinquisition?(200)Know’stthounotthatmyrisingisthyfall,Andmypromotionwillbethydestruction?TowhomtheTempterinlyracktreply’d.Letthatcomewhenitcomes;allhopeislostOfmyreceptionintograce;whatworse?Forwherenohopeisleft,isleftnofear;Iftherebeworse,theexpectationmoreOfworsetormentsmethenthefeelingcan.Iwouldbeattheworst;worstismyPort,Myharbourandmyultimaterepose,(210)TheendIwouldattain,myfinalgood.Myerrorwasmyerror,andmycrimeMycrime;whateverforitselfcondemn’d,Andwillalikebepunish’d;whetherthouRaignorraignnot;thoughtothatgentlebrowWillinglyIcouldflye,andhopethyraign,Fromthatplacidaspectandmeekregard,

Ratherthenaggravatemyevilstate,WouldstandbetweenmeandthyFathersire,(WhoseireIdreadmorethenthefireofHell)(220)AshelterandakindofshadingcoolInterposition,asasummerscloud.IfIthentotheworstthatcanbehast,Whymovethyfeetsoslowtowhatisbest,Happiestbothtothyselfandalltheworld,Thatthouwhoworthiestartshould’stbethirKing?Perhapsthoulinger’stindeepthoughtsdetain’dOftheenterprizesohazardousandhigh;Nowonder,forthoughintheebeunitedWhatofperfectioncaninmanbefound,(230)Orhumannaturecanreceive,considerThylifehathyetbeenprivate,mostpartspentAthome,scarceview’dtheGallileanTowns,AndonceayearJerusalem,fewdaysShortsojourn;andwhatthencecould’stthouobserve?Theworldthouhastnotseen,muchlessherglory,Empires,andMonarchs,andthirradiantCourts,Bestschoolofbestexperience,quickestinsightInallthingsthattogreatestactionslead.Thewisest,unexperienc’t,willbeever(240)Timorousandloth,withnovicemodesty,(AshewhoseekingAssesfoundaKingdom)Irresolute,unhardy,unadventrous:ButIwillbringtheewherethousoonshaltquitThoserudiments,andseebeforethineeyes

TheMonarchiesoftheEarth,thirpompandstate,SufficientintroductiontoinformThee,ofthyselfsoapt,inregalArts,AndregalMysteries;thatthoumay’stknowHowbesttheiroppositiontowithstand.(250)Withthat(suchpowerwasgiv’nhimthen)hetookTheSonofGoduptoaMountainhigh.ItwasaMountainatwhoseverdantfeetAspatiousplainoutstretch’tincircuitwideLaypleasant;fromhissidetworiversflow’d,Th’onewinding,theotherstraitandleftbetweenFairChampainwithlessriversinterveind,Thenmeetingjoyn’dthirtributetotheSea:Fertilofcorntheglebe,ofoylandwine,Withherdsthepasturesthrong’d,withflocksthehills,(260)HugeCitiesandhightowr’d,thatwellmightseemTheseatsofmightiestMonarchs,andsolargeTheProspectwas,thathereandtherewasroomForbarrendesertfountainlessanddry.TothishighmountaintoptheTempterbroughtOurSaviour,andnewtrainofwordsbegan.Wellhavewespeeded,ando’rehillanddale,Forestandfield,andflood,TemplesandTowersCutshortermanyaleague;herethoubehold’stAssyriaandherEmpiresantientbounds,(270)AraxesandtheCaspianlake,thenceonAsfarasIndusEast,EuphratesWest,

Andoftbeyond;toSouththePersianBay,AndinaccessibletheArabiandrouth:HereNinevee,oflengthwithinherwallSeveraldaysjourney,builtbyNinusold,OfthatfirstgoldenMonarchytheseat,AndseatofSalmanassar,whosesuccessIsraelinlongcaptivitystillmourns;ThereBabylonthewonderofalltongues,(280)Asantient,butrebuiltbyhimwhotwiceJudahandallthyFatherDavid’shouseLedcaptive,andJerusalemlaidwaste,TillCyrussetthemfree;PersepolisHiscitytherethouseest,andBactrathere;Ecbatanaherstructurevastthereshews,AndHecatompylosherhunderdgates,ThereSusabyChoaspes,amberstream,ThedrinkofnonebutKings;oflaterfameBuiltbyEmathian,orbyParthianhands,(290)ThegreatSeleucia,Nisibis,andthereArtaxata,Teredon,Tesiphon,Turningwitheasieeyethoumay’stbehold.AllthesetheParthian,nowsomeAgespast,BygreatArsacesled,whofoundedfirstThatEmpire,underhisdominionholdsFromtheluxuriousKingsofAntiochwon.Andjustintimethoucom’sttohaveaviewOfhisgreatpower;fornowtheParthiankingInCtesiphonhathgather’dallhisHost(300)

AgainsttheScythian,whoseincursionswildHavewastedSogdiana;toheraidHemarchesnowinhast;see,thoughfromfar,Histhousands,inwhatmartialequipageTheyissueforth,SteelBows,andShaftstheirarmsOfequaldreadinflight,orinpursuit;AllHorsemen,inwhichfighttheymostexcel;Seehowinwarlikemustertheyappear,InRhombsandwedges,andhalf-moons,andwings.Helook’tandsawwhatnumbersnumberless(310)TheCitygatesoutpowr’d,lightarmedTroopsIncoatsofMailandmilitarypride;InMailthirhorsesclad,yetfleetandstrong,Prauncingtheirridersbore,theflowerandchoiceOfmanyProvincesfromboundtobound;FromArachosia,fromCandaorEast,AndMargianatotheHyrcaniancliffsOfCaucasus,anddarkIberiandales,FromAtropatiaandtheneighbouringplainsOfAdiabene,Media,andtheSouth(320)OfSusiana,toBalsara’shav’n.Hesawtheminthirformsofbattellrang’d,Howquicktheywheel’d,andflyingbehindthemshotSharpsleetofarrowieshoweragainstthefaceOfthirpursuers,andovercamebyflight;Thefieldallironcastagleamingbrown,Norwantedcloudsoffoot,noroneachhorn,Cuirassiersallinsteelforstandingfight;

ChariotsorElephantsendorstwithTowersOfArchers,noroflabouringPioners(330)AmultitudewithSpadesandAxesarm’dTolayhillsplain,fellwoods,orvalleysfill,Orwhereplainwasraisehill,orover-layWithbridgesriversproud,aswithayoke;Mulesafterthese,CamelsandDromedaries,AndWaggonsfraughtwithUtensilsofwar.Suchforcesmetnot,norsowideacamp,WhenAgricanwithallhisNorthernpowersBesieg’dAlbracca,asRomancestell;TheCityofGallaphrone,fromthencetowin(340)ThefairestofherSexAngelicaHisdaughter,soughtbymanyProwestKnights,BothPaynim,andthePeersofCharlemane.SuchandsonumerouswasthirChivalrie;AtsightwhereoftheFiendyetmorepresum’d,AndtoourSaviourthushiswordsrenew’d.Thatthoumay’stknowIseeknottoengageThyVertue,andnoteverywaysecureOnnoslightgroundsthysafety;hear,andmarkTowhatendIhavebroughttheehitherandshewn(350)Allthisfairsight;thyKingdomthoughforetoldByProphetorbyAngel,unlessthouEndeavour,asthyFatherDaviddid,Thounevershaltobtain;predictionstillInallthings,andallmen,supposesmeans,

Withoutmeansus’d,whatitpredictsrevokes.Butsaythouwer’tpossess’dofDavid’sThroneByfreeconsentofall,noneopposite,SamaritanorJew;howcould’stthouhopeLongtoenjoyitquietandsecure,(360)BetweentwosuchenclosingenemiesRomanandParthian?thereforeoneoftheseThoumustmakesurethyown,theParthianfirstBymyadvice,asnearerandoflateFoundablebyinvasiontoannoyThycountry,andcaptiveleadawayherKingsAntigonus,andoldHyrcanusbound,MaugretheRoman:itshallbemytaskTorendertheetheParthianatdispose;Chusewhichthouwiltbyconquestorbyleague.(370)Byhimthoushaltregain,withouthimnot,ThatwhichalonecantrulyreinstalltheeInDavid’sroyalseat,histrueSuccessour,Deliveranceofthybrethren,thosetenTribesWhoseoff-springinhisTerritoryyetserveInHabor,andamongtheMedesdispers’t,TenSonsofJacob,twoofJosephlostThuslongfromIsrael;servingasofoldThirFathersinthelandofEgyptserv’d,Thisoffersetsbeforetheetodeliver.(380)TheseiffromservitudethoushaltrestoreTothirinheritance,then,nortillthen,ThouontheThroneofDavidinfullglory,

FromEgypttoEuphratesandbeyondShaltraign,andRomeorCæsarnotneedfear.TowhomourSaviouranswer’dthusunmov’d.Muchostentationvainoffleshlyarm,Andfragilearms,muchinstrumentofwarLonginpreparing,soontonothingbrought,Beforemineeyesthouhastset;andinmyear(390)Ventedmuchpolicy,andprojectsdeepOfenemies,ofaids,battelsandleagues,Plausibletotheworld,tomeworthnaught.MeansImustusethousay’st,predictionelseWillunpredictandfailmeoftheThrone:MytimeItoldthee,(andthattimefortheeWerebetterfarthestoff)isnotyetcome;WhenthatcomesthinknotthoutofindmeslackOnmypartaughtendeavouring,ortoneedThypoliticmaxims,orthatcumbersome(400)Luggageofwarthereshewnme,argumentOfhumanweaknessratherthenofstrength.Mybrethren,asthoucall’stthem,thoseTenTribesImustdeliver,ifImeantoraignDavid’strueheir,andhisfullScepterswayTojustextentoverallIsrael’sSons;Butwhencetotheethiszeal,wherewasitthenForIsrael,orforDavid,orhisThrone,Whenthoustood’stuphisTemptertotheprideOfnumbringIsrael,whichcostthelives(410)OfthreescoreandtenthousandIsraelites

BythreedaysPestilence?suchwasthyzealToIsraelthen,thesamethatnowtome.AsforthosecaptiveTribes,themselvesweretheyWhowroughttheirowncaptivity,felloffFromGodtoworshipCalves,theDeitiesOfEgypt,BaalnextandAshtaroth,AndalltheIdolatriesofHeathenround,Besidesthirotherworsethenheathenishcrimes;Norinthelandoftheircaptivity(420)Humbledthemselves,orpenitentbesoughtTheGodoftheirfore-fathers;butsody’dImpenitent,andleftaracebehindLiketothemselves,distinguishablescarceFromGentils,butbyCircumcisionvain,AndGodwithIdolsintheirworshipjoyn’d.ShouldIofthesethelibertyregard,Whofreed,astotheirantientPatrimony,Unhumbl’d,unrepentant,unreform’d,Headlongwouldfollow;andtothirGodsperhaps(430)OfBethelandofDan?No,letthemserveThirenemies,whoserveIdolswithGod.Yetheatlength,timetohimselfbestknown,RemembringAbrahambysomewond’rouscallMaybringthembackrepentantandsincere,AndattheirpassingcleavetheAssyrianflood,Whiletotheirnativelandwithjoytheyhast,AstheRedSeaandJordanoncehecleft,

Whentothepromis’dlandthirFatherspass’d;TohisduetimeandprovidenceIleavethem.(440)SospakeIsrael’strueKing,andtotheFiendMadeanswermeet,thatmadevoidallhiswiles.Sofaresitwhenwithtruthfalshoodcontends.

TheEndoftheThirdBook.

Book IV

Perplex’dandtroubl’dathisbadsuccessTheTempterstood,norhadwhattoreply,Discover’dinhisfraud,thrownfromhishope,Sooft,andtheperswasiveRhetoricThatsleek’thistongue,andwonsomuchonEve,Solittlehere,naylost;butEvewasEve,Thisfarhisover-match,whoselfdeceiv’dAndrash,before-handhadnobetterweigh’dThestrengthhewastocopewith,orhisown:Butasamanwhohadbeenmatchlessheld(10)Incunning,over-reach’twhereleasthethought,Tosalvehiscredit,andforveryspightStillwillbetemptinghimwhofoylshimstill,Andnevercease,thoughtohisshamethemore;Orasaswarmoffliesinvintagetime,Aboutthewine-presswheresweetmoustispowr’d,Beatoff,returnsasoftwithhummingsound;Orsurgingwavesagainstasolidrock,Thoughalltoshiversdash’t,theassaultrenew,Vainbattry,andinfrothorbubblesend;(20)SoSatan,whomrepulseuponrepulseMetever,andtoshamefulsilencebrought,Yetgivesnoto’rethoughdesperateofsuccess,

Andhisvainimportunitypursues.HebroughtourSaviourtothewesternsideOfthathighmountain,whencehemightbeholdAnotherplain,longbutinbredthnotwide;Wash’dbytheSouthernSea,andontheNorthToequallengthback’dwitharidgeofhillsThatscreen’dthefruitsoftheearthandseatsofmen(30)FromcoldSeptentrionblasts,thenceinthemidstDividedbyariver,ofwhosebanksOneachsideanImperialCitystood,WithTowersandTemplesproudlyelevateOnsevensmallHills,withPalacesadorn’d,PorchesandTheatres,Baths,Aqueducts,StatuesandTrophees,andTriumphalArcs,GardensandGrovespresentedtohiseyes,AbovethehighthofMountainsinterpos’d.BywhatstrangeParallaxorOpticskill(40)Ofvisionmultiplyedthroughair,orglassOfTelescope,werecurioustoenquire:AndnowtheTempterthushissilencebroke.TheCitywhichthouseestnootherdeemThengreatandgloriousRome,QueenoftheEarthSofarrenown’d,andwiththespoilsenrichtOfNations;theretheCapitolthouseest,AbovetherestliftinghisstatelyheadOntheTarpeianrock,herCittadelImpregnable,andthereMountPalatine(50)TheImperialPalace,compasshuge,andhigh

TheStructure,skillofnoblestArchitects,Withgildedbattlements,conspicuousfar,TurretsandTerrases,andglitteringSpires.ManyafairEdificebesides,morelikeHousesofGods(sowellIhavedispos’dMyAerieMicroscope)thoumay’stbeholdOutsideandinsideboth,pillarsandroofsCarv’dwork,thehandoffam’dArtificersInCedar,Marble,IvoryorGold.(60)Thencetothegatescastroundthineeye,andseeWhatconfluxissuingforth,orentringin,Pretors,ProconsulstothirProvincesHastingoronreturn,inrobesofState;Lictorsandrodstheensignsofthirpower,LegionsandCohorts,turmesofhorseandwings:OrEmbassiesfromRegionsfarremoteInvarioushabitsontheAppianroad,OrontheÆmilian,somefromfarthestSouth,Syene,andwheretheshadowbothwayfalls,(70)MeroeNiloticIsle,andmoretoWest,TheRealmofBocchustotheBlack-moorSea;FromtheAsianKingsandParthianamongthese,FromIndiaandthegoldenChersoness,AndutmostIndianIsleTaprobane,DuskfaceswithwhitesilkenTurbantswreath’d:FromGallia,Gades,andtheBrittishWest,GermansandScythians,andSarmatiansNorthBeyondDanubiustotheTauricPool.

AllNationsnowtoRomeobediencepay,(80)ToRome’sgreatEmperour,whosewidedomainInampleTerritory,wealthandpower,CivilityofManners,Arts,andArms,AndlongRenownthoujustlymay’stpreferBeforetheParthian;thesetwoThronesexcept,Therestarebarbarous,andscarceworththesight,Shar’damongpettyKingstoofarremov’d;Thesehavingshewnthee,IhaveshewntheeallTheKingdomsoftheworld,andallthirglory.ThisEmperourhathnoSon,andnowisold,(90)Old,andlascivious,andfromRomeretir’dToCapreæanIslandsmallbutstrongOntheCampanianshore,withpurposethereHishorridlustsinprivatetoenjoy,CommittingtoawickedFavouriteAllpublickcares,andyetofhimsuspicious,Hatedofall,andhating;withwhateaseIndu’dwithRegalVertuesasthouart,Appearing,andbeginningnobledeeds,Might’stthouexpelthismonsterfromhisThrone(100)Nowmadeastye,andinhisplaceascendingAvictor,peoplefreefromservileyoke?Andwithmyhelpthoumay’st;tomethepowerIsgiven,andbythatrightIgiveitthee.Aimthereforeatnolessthenalltheworld,Aimatthehighest,withoutthehighestattain’d

Willbefortheenositting,ornotlongOnDavid’sThrone,bepropheci’dwhatwill.TowhomtheSonofGodunmov’dreply’d.Nordoththisgrandeurandmajesticshow(110)Ofluxury,thoughcall’dmagnificence,Morethenofarmsbefore,alluremineeye,Muchlessmymind;thoughthoushould’staddtotellThirsumptuousgluttonies,andgorgeousfeastsOnCittrontablesorAtlanticstone;(ForIhavealsoheard,perhapshaveread)TheirwinesofSetia,Cales,andFalerne,ChiosandCreet,andhowtheyquaffinGold,CrystalandMyrrhinecupsimboss’dwithGemsAndstudsofPearl,tomeshould’sttellwhothirst(120)Andhungerstill:thenEmbassiesthoushew’stFromNationsfarandnigh;whathonourthat,ButtediouswastoftimetositandhearSomanyhollowcomplementsandlies,Outlandishflatteries?thenproceed’sttotalkOftheEmperour,howeasilysubdu’d,Howgloriously;Ishall,thousay’st,expelAbrutishmonster:whatifIwithalExpelaDevilwhofirstmadehimsuch?LethistormentorConsciencefindhimout,(130)ForhimIwasnotsent,noryettofreeThatpeoplevictoronce,nowvileandbase,Deservedlymadevassal,whooncejust,Frugal,andmild,andtemperate,conquer’dwell,

ButgovernilltheNationsunderyoke,PeelingthirProvinces,exhaustedallBylustandrapine;firstambitiousgrownOftriumphthatinsultingvanity;Thencruel,bythirsportstobloodenur’dOffightingbeasts,andmentobeastsexpos’d,(140)Luxuriousbythirwealth,andgreedierstill,AndfromthedailySceneeffeminate.WhatwiseandvaliantmanwouldseektofreeThesethusdegenerate,bythemselvesenslav’d,Orcouldofinwardslavesmakeoutwardfree?KnowthereforewhenmyseasoncomestositOnDavid’sThrone,itshallbelikeatreeSpreadingandover-shadowingalltheEarth,OrasastonethatshalltopiecesdashAllMonarchiesbesidesthroughouttheworld,(150)AndofmyKingdomthereshallbenoend:Meansthereshallbetothis,butwhatthemeans,Isnotfortheetoknow,normetotell.TowhomtheTempterimpudentrepli’d.IseealloffersmadebymehowslightThouvalu’st,becauseoffer’d,andreject’st:Nothingwillpleasethedifficultandnice,Ornothingmorethenstilltocontradict:Ontheothersideknowalsothou,thatIOnwhatIoffersetashighesteem,(160)NorwhatIpartwithmeantogivefornaught;Allthesewhichinamomentthoubehold’st,

TheKingdomsoftheworldtotheeIgive;Forgiv’ntome,IgivetowhomIplease,Notrifle;yetwiththisreserve,notelse,Onthiscondition,ifthouwiltfalldown,AndworshipmeasthysuperiorLord,Easilydone,andholdthemallofme;Forwhatcanlesssogreatagiftdeserve?WhomthusourSaviouranswer’dwithdisdain.(170)Ineverlik’dthytalk,thyoffersless,Nowbothabhor,sincethouhastdar’dtoutterTheabominableterms,impiouscondition;ButIendurethetime,tillwhichexpir’d,Thouhastpermissiononme.ItiswrittenThefirstofallCommandments,ThoushaltworshipTheLordthyGod,andonlyhimshaltserve;Anddar’stthoutotheSonofGodpropoundToworshiptheeaccurst,nowmoreaccurstForthisattemptbolderthenthatonEve,(180)Andmoreblasphemous?whichexpecttorue.TheKingdomsoftheworldtotheeweregiv’n,Permittedrather,andbytheeusurp’t,Otherdonationnonethoucanstproduce:Ifgiven,bywhombutbytheKingofKings,Godoverallsupreme?ifgiv’ntothee,BytheehowfairlyistheGivernowRepaid?ButgratitudeintheeislostLongsince.Wertthousovoidoffearorshame,

AsofferthemtometheSonofGod,(190)Tomemyown,onsuchabhorredpact,ThatIfalldownandworshiptheeasGod?Gettheebehindme;plainthounowappear’stThatEvilone,Satanforeverdamn’d.TowhomtheFiendwithfearabashtreply’d.Benotsosoreoffended,SonofGod;ThoughSonsofGodbothAngelsareandMen,IfItotrywhetherinhighersortThenthesethoubear’stthattitle,havepropos’dWhatbothfromMenandAngelsIreceive,(200)Tetrarchsoffire,air,flood,andontheearthNationsbesidesfromallthequarter’dwinds,Godofthisworldinvok’tandworldbeneath;Whothenthouart,whosecomingisforetoldTomesofatal,meitmostconcerns.Thetryalhathindamag’dtheenoway,Rathermorehonourleftandmoreesteem;Menaughtadvantag’d,missingwhatIaim’d.Thereforeletpass,astheyaretransitory,TheKingdomsofthisworld;Ishallnomore(210)Advisethee,gainthemasthoucanst,ornot.Andthouthyselfseem’stotherwiseinclin’dThentoaworldlyCrown,addictedmoreTocontemplationandprofounddispute,Asbythatearlyactionmaybejudg’d,WhenslippingfromthyMotherseyethouwent’stAloneintotheTemple;therewasfound

AmongthegravestRabbiesdisputantOnpointsandquestionsfittingMosesChair,Teachingnottaught;thechildhoodshewstheman,(220)Asmorningshewstheday.BefamousthenBywisdom;asthyEmpiremustextend,Soletextendthymindo’realltheworld,Inknowledge,allthingsinitcomprehend,Allknowledgeisnotcouch’tinMosesLaw,ThePentateuchorwhattheProphetswrote,TheGentilesalsoknow,andwrite,andteachToadmiration,ledbyNatureslight;AndwiththeGentilesmuchthoumustconverse,Rulingthembyperswasionasthoumean’st,(230)Withoutthirlearninghowwiltthouwiththem,Ortheywiththeeholdconversationmeet?Howwiltthoureasonwiththem,howrefuteThirIdolisms,Traditions,Paradoxes?Errorbyhisownarmsisbestevinc’t.Lookoncemoree’reweleavethisspecularMountWestward,muchnearerbySouthwest,beholdWhereontheÆgeanshoreaCitystandsBuiltnobly,puretheair,andlightthesoil,AthenstheeyeofGreece,MotherofArts(240)AndEloquence,nativetofamouswitsOrhospitable,inhersweetrecess,CityorSuburban,studiouswalksandshades;SeetheretheOliveGroveofAcademe,Plato’sretirement,wheretheAtticBird

Trillsherthick-warbl’dnotesthesummerlong,ThereflowriehillHymettuswiththesoundOfBeesindustriousmurmuroftinvitesTostudiousmusing;thereIlissusroulsHiswhisperingstream;withinthewallsthenview(250)TheschoolsofantientSages;hiswhobredGreatAlexandertosubduetheworld,Lyceumthere,andpaintedStoanext:TherethoushalthearandlearnthesecretpowerOfharmonyintonesandnumbershitByvoiceorhand,andvarious-measur’dverse,ÆoliancharmsandDorianLyricOdes,Andhiswhogavethembreath,buthighersung,BlindMelesigenesthenceHomercall’d,WhosePoemPhœbuschalleng’dforhisown.(260)ThencewhattheloftygraveTragœdianstaughtInChorusorIambic,teachersbestOfmoralprudence,withdelightreceiv’dInbriefsententiousprecepts,whiletheytreatOffate,andchance,andchangeinhumanlife;Highactions,andhighpassionsbestdescribing:ThencetothefamousOratorsrepair,Thoseantient,whoseresistlesseloquenceWieldedatwillthatfierceDemocratie,ShooktheArsenalandfulmin’doverGreece,(270)ToMacedon,andArtaxerxesThrone;TosagePhilosophynextlendthineear,

FromHeavendescendedtothelow-roofthouseOfSocrates,seetherehisTenement,Whomwellinspir’dtheOraclepronounc’dWisestofmen;fromwhosemouthissu’dforthMellifluousstreamsthatwater’dalltheschoolsOfAcademicsoldandnew,withthoseSirnam’dPeripatetics,andtheSectEpicurean,andtheStoicsevere;(280)Thesehererevolve,or,asthoulik’st,athome,TilltimematuretheetoaKingdom’swaight;TheseruleswillrendertheeaKingcompleatWithinthyself,muchmorewithEmpirejoyn’d.TowhomourSavioursagelythusrepli’d.ThinknotbutthatIknowthesethings,orthinkIknowthemnot;notthereforeamIshortOfknowingwhatIaught:hewhoreceivesLightfromabove,fromthefountainoflight,Nootherdoctrineneeds,thoughgrantedtrue;(290)Butthesearefalse,orlittleelsebutdreams,Conjectures,fancies,builtonnothingfirm.Thefirstandwisestofthemallprofess’dToknowthisonly,thathenothingknew;Thenexttofablingfellandsmoothconceits,Athirdsortdoubtedallthings,thoughplainsense;Othersinvertueplac’dfelicity,Butvertuejoyn’dwithrichesandlonglife,Incorporalpleasurehe,andcarelessease,TheStoiclastinPhilosophicpride,(300)

Byhimcall’dvertue;andhisvertuousman,Wise,perfectinhimself,andallpossessingEqualtoGod,oftshamesnottoprefer,AsfearingGodnorman,contemningallWealth,pleasure,painortorment,deathandlife,Whichwhenhelists,heleaves,orboastshecan,Forallhistedioustalkisbutvainboast,Orsubtleshiftsconvictiontoevade.Alaswhatcantheyteach,andnotmislead;Ignorantofthemselves,ofGodmuchmore,(310)Andhowtheworldbegan,andhowmanfellDegradedbyhimself,ongracedepending?MuchoftheSoultheytalk,butallawrie,Andinthemselvesseekvertue,andtothemselvesAllgloryarrogate,toGodgivenone,Ratheraccusehimunderusualnames,FortuneandFate,asoneregardlessquiteOfmortalthings.WhothereforeseeksintheseTruewisdom,findshernot,orbydelusionFarworse,herfalseresemblanceonlymeets,(320)Anemptycloud.HowevermanybooksWisemenhavesaidarewearisom;whoreadsIncessantly,andtohisreadingbringsnotAspiritandjudgmentequalorsuperior(Andwhathebrings,whatneedsheelsewhereseek)Uncertainandunsettl’dstillremains,Deepverstinbooksandshallowinhimself,Crudeorintoxicate,collectingtoys,

Andtriflesforchoicematters,worthaspunge;AsChildrengatheringpiblesontheshore.(330)OrifIwoulddelightmyprivatehoursWithMusicorwithPoem,wheresosoonAsinournativeLanguagecanIfindThatsolace?AllourLawandStorystrew’dWithHymns,ourPsalmswithartfultermsinscrib’d,OurHebrewSongsandHarpsinBabylon,Thatpleas’dsowellourVictorsear,declareThatratherGreecefromustheseArtsderiv’d;Illimitated,whiletheyloudestsingThevicesofthirDeities,andthirown(340)InFable,Hymn,orSong,sopersonatingThirGodsridiculous,andthemselvespastshame.RemovetheirswellingEpithetesthicklaidAsvarnishonaHarlotscheek,therest,Thinsownwithaughtofprofitordelight,WillfarbefoundunworthytocompareWithSion’ssongs,toalltruetastsexcelling,WhereGodisprais’daright,andGodlikemen,TheHoliestofHolies,andhisSaints;SucharefromGodinspir’d,notsuchfromthee;(350)Unlesswheremoralvertueisexpress’tBylightofNaturenotinallquitelost.ThirOratorsthouthenextoll’st,asthoseThetopofEloquence,Statistsindeed,AndloversofthirCountry,asmayseem;

ButhereintoourProphetsfarbeneath,Asmendivinelytaught,andbetterteachingThesolidrulesofCivilGovernmentInthirmajesticunaffectedstileThenalltheOratoryofGreeceandRome.(360)Inthemisplainesttaught,andeasiestlearnt,WhatmakesaNationhappy,andkeepsitso,WhatruinsKingdoms,andlaysCitiesflat;TheseonlywithourLawbestformaKing.SospaketheSonofGod;butSatannowQuiteataloss,forallhisdartswerespent,ThustoourSaviourwithsternbrowreply’d.Sinceneitherwealth,norhonour,armsnorarts,KingdomnorEmpirepleasesthee,noraughtBymepropos’dinlifecontemplative,(370)Oractive,tendedonbyglory,orfame,WhatdostthouinthisWorld?theWildernessFortheeisfittestplace,Ifoundtheethere,Andthitherwillreturnthee,yetrememberWhatIforetellthee,soonthoushalthavecauseTowishthouneverhadstrejectedthusNicelyorcautiouslymyoffer’daid,WhichwouldhavesettheeinshorttimewitheaseOnDavid’sThrone;orThroneofalltheworld,Nowatfullage,fulnessoftime,thyseason,(380)WhenPropheciesoftheearebestfullfill’d.Nowcontrary,ifIreadaughtinHeaven,OrHeav’nwriteaughtofFate,bywhattheStars

Voluminous,orsinglecharacters,Intheirconjunctionmet,givemetospell,Sorrows,andlabours,opposition,hate,Attendsthee,scorns,reproaches,injuries,Violenceandstripes,andlastlycrueldeath,AKingdomtheyportendthee,butwhatKingdom,RealorAllegoricIdiscernnot,(390)Norwhen,eternalsure,aswithoutend,Withoutbeginning;fornodateprefixtDirectsmeintheStarryRubricset.Sosaying,hetook(forstillheknewhispowerNotyetexpir’d)andtotheWildernessBroughtbacktheSonofGod,andlefthimthere,Feigningtodisappear.Darknessnowrose,Asday-lightsunk,andbroughtinlowringnightHershadowyoff-spring,unsubstantialboth,Privationmeeroflightandabsentday.(400)OurSaviourmeekandwithuntroubl’dmindAfterhisaeriejaunt,thoughhurriedsore,Hungryandcoldbetookhimtohisrest,Wherever,undersomeconcourseofshadesWhosebranchingarmsthickintertwindmightshieldFromdewsanddampsofnighthisshelter’dhead,Butshelter’dsleptinvain,forathisheadTheTempterwatch’d,andsoonwithuglydreamsDisturb’dhissleep;andeitherTropicnow‘Ganthunder;andbothendsofHeav’n,theClouds(410)Frommanyahorridriftabortivepour’d

Fiercerainwithlightningmixt,waterwithfireInruinereconcil’d:norsleptthewindsWithinthirstonycaves,butrush’dabroadFromthefourhingesoftheworld,andfellOnthevextWilderness,whosetallestPines,Thoughrooteddeepashigh,andsturdiestOaksBow’dtheirStiffnecks,loadenwithstormyblasts,Ortornupsheer:illwastthoushroudedthen,OpatientSonofGod,yetonlystoodst(420)Unshaken;noryetstaidtheterrorthere,InfernalGhosts,andHellishFuries,roundEnviron’dthee,somehowl’d,someyell’d,someshriek’d,Somebentattheethirfierydarts,whilethouSat’stunappall’dincalmandsinlesspeace.Thuspass’dthenightsofoultillmorningfairCameforthwithPilgrimstepsinamicegray;Whowithherradiantfingerstill’dtheroarOfthunder,chas’dtheclouds,andlaidthewinds,AndgrislySpectres,whichtheFiendhadrais’d(430)TotempttheSonofGodwithterrorsdire.AndnowtheSunwithmoreeffectualbeamsHadchear’dthefaceofEarth,anddry’dthewetFromdroopingplant,ordroppingtree;thebirdsWhoallthingsnowbeholdmorefreshandgreen,Afteranightofstormsoruinous,Clear’duptheirchoicestnotesinbushandsprayTogratulatethesweetreturnofmorn;

NoryetamidstthisjoyandbrightestmornWasabsent,afterallhismischiefdone,(440)ThePrinceofdarkness,gladwouldalsoseemOfthisfairchange,andtoourSaviourcame,Yetwithnonewdevice,theyallwerespent,Ratherbythishislastaffrontresolv’d,Desperateofbettercourse,toventhisrage,Andmaddespighttobesooftrepell’d.HimwalkingonaSunnyhillhefound,Back’dontheNorthandWestbyathickwood,Outofthewoodhestartsinwontedshape;Andinacarelessmoodthustohimsaid.(450)FairmorningyetbetidestheeSonofGod,Afteradismalnight;IheardtherackAsEarthandSkiewouldmingle;butmyselfWasdistant;andtheseflaws,thoughmortalsfearthemAsdangeroustothepillardframeofHeaven,OrtotheEarthsdarkbasisunderneath,Aretothemainasinconsiderable,Andharmless,ifnotwholsom,asasneezeTomanslessuniverse,andsoonaregone;Yetasbeingofttimesnoxiouswheretheylight(460)Onman,beast,plant,wastfulandturbulent,Liketurbulenciesintheaffairsofmen,Overwhoseheadstheyrore,andseemtopoint,Theyoftfore-signifieandthreatenill:ThisTempestatthisDesertmostwasbent;Ofmenatthee,foronlythouheredwell’st.

DidInottellthee,ifthoudidstrejectTheperfetseasonoffer’dwithmyaidTowinthydestin’dseat,butwiltprolongAlltothepushofFate,persuethyway(470)OfgainingDavid’sThronenomanknowswhen,Forboththewhenandhowisnowheretold,Thoushaltbewhatthouartordain’d,nodoubt;ForAngelshaveproclaim’dit,butconcealingThetimeandmeans:eachactisrightliestdone,Notwhenitmust,butwhenitmaybebest.Ifthouobservenotthis,besuretofind,WhatIforetoldthee,manyahardassayOfdangers,andadversitiesandpains,E’rethouofIsrael’sSceptergetfasthold;(480)Whereofthisominousnightthatclos’dtheeround,Somanyterrors,voices,prodigiesMaywarnthee,asasurefore-goingsign.Sotalk’dhe,whiletheSonofGodwentonAndstaidnot,butinbriefhimanswer’dthus.Meeworsethenwetthoufind’stnot;otherharmThoseterrorswhichthouspeak’stof,didmenone;Ineverfear’dtheycould,thoughnoisingloudAndthreatningnigh;whattheycandoassignsBetok’ning,orillboding,Icontemn(490)Asfalseportents,notsentfromGod,butthee;WhoknowingIshallraignpastthypreventing,Obtrud’stthyoffer’daid,thatIacceptingAtleastmightseemtoholdallpowerofthee,

Ambitiousspirit,andwouldstbethoughtmyGod,Andstorm’strefus’d,thinkingtoterrifieMeetothywill;desist,thouartdiscern’dAndtoil’stinvain,normeinvainmolest.TowhomtheFiendnowswolnwithragereply’d:Thenhear,OSonofDavid,Virgin-born;(500)ForSonofGodtomeisyetindoubt,OftheMessiahIhaveheardforetoldByalltheProphets;ofthybirthatlengthAnnounc’tbyGabrielwiththefirstIknew,AndoftheAngelicSonginBethlehemfield,Onthybirth-night,thatsungtheeSaviourborn.FromthattimeseldomhaveIceas’dtoeyeThyinfancy,thychildhood,andthyyouth,Thymanhoodlast,thoughyetinprivatebred;TillattheFordofJordanwhitherall(510)Flock’dtotheBaptist,Iamongtherest,ThoughnottobeBaptiz’d,byvoicefromHeav’nHeardtheepronounc’dtheSonofGodbelov’d.ThenceforthIthoughttheeworthmynearerviewAndnarrowerScrutiny,thatImightlearnInwhatdegreeormeaningthouartcall’dTheSonofGod,whichbearsnosinglesence;TheSonofGodIalsoam,orwas,AndifIwas,Iam;relationstands;AllmenareSonsofGod;yettheeIthought(520)Insomerespectfarhighersodeclar’d.

ThereforeIwatch’dthyfootstepsfromthathour,Andfollow’dtheestillontothiswastwild;WherebyallbestconjecturesIcollectThouarttobemyfatalenemy.Goodreasonthen,ifIbefore-handseekTounderstandmyAdversary,whoAndwhatheis;hiswisdom,power,intent,Byparl,orcomposition,truce,orleagueTowinhim,orwinfromhimwhatIcan.(530)AndopportunityIherehavehadTotrythee,siftthee,andconfesshavefoundtheeProofagainstalltemptationasarockOfAdamant,andasaCenter,firmTotheutmostofmeermanbothwiseandgood,Notmore;forHonours,Riches,Kingdoms,GloryHavebeenbeforecontemn’d,andmayagen:Thereforetoknowwhatmorethouartthenman,WorthnamingSonofGodbyvoicefromHeav’n,AnothermethodImustnowbegin.(540)Sosayinghecaughthimup,andwithoutwingOfHippogrifborethroughtheAirsublimeOvertheWildernessando’rethePlain;TillunderneaththemfairJerusalem,TheholyCityliftedhighherTowers,AndhigheryetthegloriousTemplerear’dHerpile,faroffappearinglikeaMountOfAlablaster,top’twithGoldenSpires:ThereonthehighestPinacleheset

TheSonofGod,andaddedthusinscorn:(550)Therestand,ifthouwiltstand;tostanduprightWillasktheeskill;ItothyFathershouseHavebroughtthee,andhighestplac’t,highestisbest,NowshewthyProgeny;ifnottostand,Castthyselfdown;safelyifSonofGod:Foritiswritten,HewillgivecommandConcerningtheetohisAngels,inthirhandsTheyshallupliftthee,lestatanytimeThouchancetodashthyfootagainstastone.TowhomthusJesus:alsoitiswritten,(560)TemptnottheLordthyGod;hesaidandstood.ButSatansmittenwithamazementfellAswhenEarthsSonAntæus(tocompareSmallthingswithgreatest)inIrassastroveWithJovesAlcidesandoftfoil’dstillrose,ReceivingfromhismotherEarthnewstrength,Freshfromhisfall,andfiercergrapplejoyn’d,Throttl’datlengthintheAir,expir’dandfell;SoaftermanyafoiltheTempterproud,Renewingfreshassaults,amidsthispride(570)FellwhencehestoodtoseehisVictorfall.AndasthatThebanMonsterthatpropos’dHerriddle,andhim,whosolv’ditnot,devour’d;Thatoncefoundoutandsolv’d,forgriefandspightCastherselfheadlongfromth’Ismeniansteep,SostrookwithdreadandanguishfelltheFiend,Andtohiscrew,thatsatconsulting,brought

Joylesstriumphalsofhishop’tsuccess,Ruin,anddesperation,anddismay,WhodurstsoproudlytempttheSonofGod.(580)SoSatanfellandstraitafieryGlobeOfAngelsonfullsailofwingflewnigh,WhoontheirplumyVansreceiv’dhimsoftFromhisuneasiestation,andupboreAsonafloatingcouchthroughtheblitheAir,TheninaflowryvalleysethimdownOnagreenbank,andsetbeforehimspredAtableofCelestialFood,Divine,Ambrosial,Fruitsfetchtfromthetreeoflife,AndfromthefountoflifeAmbrosialdrink,(590)Thatsoonrefresh’dhimwearied,andrepair’dWhathunger,ifaughthungerhadimpair’d,Orthirst,andashefed,AngelicQuiresSungHeavenlyAnthemsofhisvictoryOvertemptation,andtheTempterproud.TrueImageoftheFatherwhetherthron’dInthebosomofbliss,andlightoflightConceiving,orremotefromHeaven,enshrin’dInfleshlyTabernacle,andhumanform,WandringtheWilderness,whateverplace,(600)Habit,orstate,ormotion,stillexpressingTheSonofGod,withGodlikeforceindu’dAgainstth’AttempterofthyFathersThrone,AndThiefofParadise;himlongofold

Thoudidstdebel,anddownfromHeav’ncastWithallhisArmy,nowthouhastaveng’dSupplantedAdam,andbyvanquishingTemptation,hastregain’dlostParadise,Andfrustratedtheconquestfraudulent:Henevermorehenceforthwilldaresetfoot(610)InParadisetotempt;hissnaresarebroke:Forthoughthatseatofearthlyblissbefail’d,AfairerParadiseisfoundednowForAdamandhischosenSons,whomthouASaviourartcomedowntore-install.Wheretheyshalldwellsecure,whentimeshallbeOfTempterandTemptationwithoutfear.Butthou,InfernalSerpent,shaltnotlongRuleintheClouds;likeanAutumnalStarOrLightningthoushaltfallfromHeav’ntroddown(620)Underhisfeet:forproof,e’rethisthoufeel’stThywound,yetnotthylastanddeadliestwoundBythisrepulsereceiv’d,andhold’stinHellNotriumph;inallhergatesAbaddonruesThyboldattempt;hereafterlearnwithaweTodreadtheSonofGod:heallunarm’dShallchasetheewiththeterrorofhisvoiceFromthyDemoniacholds,possessionfoul,TheeandthyLegions;yellingtheyshallflye,AndbegtohidetheminaherdofSwine,(630)LesthecommandthemdownintothedeepBound,andtotormentsentbeforethirtime.

HailSonofthemostHigh,heirofbothworlds,QuellerofSatan,onthygloriousworkNowenter,andbegintosavemankind.ThustheytheSonofGodourSaviourmeekSungVictor,andfromHeavenlyFeastrefreshtBroughtonhiswaywithjoy;heeunobserv’dHometohisMothershouseprivatereturn’d.

TheEND.

Also from William Ralph Press

TheseDetailsinPreferencetoNothing:IsabelbyNeilAzevedo

ABookofNightmaresbyNeilAzevedo

andcomingsoon,RuinbyNeilAzevedo

Additionale-editionsintheReader’sLibrarySeries

TheSonnetsbyWilliamShakespeare

CollectedPoemsbyJohnDonne

TheSelectedPoemsofSamuelTaylorColeridgebySamuelTaylorColeridge

CollectedPoemsofJohnKeatsbyJohnKeats

Poems(1876-1889)byGerardManleyHopkins

www.williamralphpress.com