TillconquerorDeathdiscoverthemscarcemen，Rowlinginbrutishvices，anddeformed，Violentorshamefuldeaththeirduereward。
　　But，iftherebeingloryaughtofgood；
　　Itmaybemeansfardifferentbeattained，Withoutambition，war，orviolence——
　　Bydeedsofpeace，bywisdomeminent，Bypatience，temperance。ImentionstillHimwhomthywrongs，withsaintlypatienceborne，Madefamousinalandandtimesobscure；
　　WhonamesnotnowwithhonourpatientJob？
　　PoorSocrates，（whonextmorememorable？）
　　Bywhathetaughtandsufferedforsodoing，Fortruth’ssakesufferingdeathunjust，livesnowEqualinfametoproudestconquerors。
　　Yet，ifforfameandgloryaughtbedone，Aughtsuffered——ifyoungAfricanforfameHiswastedcountryfreedfromPunicrage——
　　Thedeedbecomesunpraised，themanatleast，Andloses，thoughbutverbal，hisreward。
　　ShallIseekglory，then，asvainmenseek，Oftnotdeserved？Iseeknotmine，butHisWhosentme，andtherebywitnesswhenceIam。"
　　TowhomtheTempter，murmuring，thusreplied：——
　　"Thinknotsoslightofglory，thereinleastResemblingthygreatFather。Heseeksglory，Andforhisgloryallthingsmade，allthingsOrdersandgoverns；norcontentinHeaven，ByallhisAngelsglorified，requiresGloryfrommen，fromallmen，goodorbad，Wiseorunwise，nodifference，noexemption。
　　Aboveallsacrifice，orhallowedgift，Gloryherequires，andgloryhereceives，Promiscuousfromallnations，Jew，orGreek，OrBarbarous，norexceptionhathdeclared；
　　Fromus，hisfoespronounced，gloryheexacts。"
　　TowhomourSaviourferventlyreplied：
　　"Andreason；sincehisWordallthingsproduced，Thoughchieflynotforgloryasprimeend，Buttoshewforthhisgoodness，andimpartHisgoodcommunicabletoeverysoulFreely；ofwhomwhatcouldHelessexpectThangloryandbenediction——thatis，thanks——
　　Theslightest，easiest，readiestrecompenseFromthemwhocouldreturnhimnothingelse，And，notreturningthat，wouldlikeliestrenderContemptinstead，dishonour，obloquy？
　　Hardrecompense，unsuitablereturnForsomuchgood，somuchbeneficience！
　　Butwhyshouldmanseekglory，whoofhisownHathnothing，andtowhomnothingbelongsButcondemnation，ignominy，andshame——
　　Who，forsomanybenefitsreceived，TurnedrecreanttoGod，ingrateandfalse，Andsoofalltruegoodhimselfdespoiled；
　　Yet，sacrilegious，tohimselfwouldtakeThatwhichtoGodaloneofrightbelongs？
　　YetsomuchbountyisinGod，suchgrace，Thatwhoadvanceshisglory，nottheirown，Themhehimselftoglorywilladvance。"
　　SospaketheSonofGod；andhereagainSatanhadnottoanswer，butstoodstruckWithguiltofhisownsin——forhehimself，Insatiableofglory，hadlostall；
　　Yetofanotherpleabethoughthimsoon：——
　　"Ofglory，asthouwilt，"saidhe，"sodeem；
　　Worthornotworththeseeking，letitpass。
　　ButtoaKingdomthouartborn——ordainedTosituponthyfatherDavid’sthrone，Bymother’ssidethyfather，thoughthyrightBenowinpowerfulhands，thatwillnotpartEasilyfrompossessionwonwitharms。
　　JudaeanowandallthePromisedLand，ReducedaprovinceunderRomanyoke，ObeysTiberius，norisalwaysruledWithtemperatesway：ofthavetheyviolatedTheTemple，ofttheLaw，withfoulaffronts，Abominationsrather，asdidonceAntiochus。Andthink’stthoutoregainThyrightbysittingstill，orthusretiring？
　　SodidnotMachabeus。HeindeedRetireduntotheDesert，butwitharms；
　　Ando’eramightykingsooftprevailedThatbystronghandhisfamilyobtained，Thoughpriests，thecrown，andDavid’sthroneusurped，WithModinandhersuburbsoncecontent。
　　Ifkingdommovetheenot，letmovetheezealAndduty——zealanddutyarenotslow，ButonOccasion’sforelockwatchfulwait：
　　Theythemselvesratherareoccasionbest——
　　ZealofthyFather’shouse，dutytofreeThycountryfromherheathenservitude。
　　Soshaltthoubestfulfil，bestverify，TheProphetsold，whosungthyendlessreign——
　　Thehappierreignthesooneritbegins。
　　Reinthen；whatcanstthoubetterdothewhile？"
　　TowhomourSaviouranswerthusreturned：——
　　"Allthingsarebestfulfilledintheirduetime；
　　Andtimethereisforallthings，Truthhathsaid。
　　IfofmyreignPropheticWrithathtoldThatitshallneverend，so，whenbeginTheFatherinhispurposehathdecreed——
　　Heinwhosehandalltimesandseasonsrowl。
　　WhatifhehathdecreedthatIshallfirstBetriedinhumblestate，andthingsadverse，Bytribulations，injuries，insults，Contempts，andscorns，andsnares，andviolence，Suffering，abstaining，quietlyexpectingWithoutdistrustordoubt，thatHemayknowWhatIcansuffer，howobey？WhobestCansufferbestcando，bestreignwhofirstWellhathobeyed——justtrialereImeritMyexaltationwithoutchangeorend。
　　ButwhatconcernsittheewhenIbeginMyeverlastingKingdom？WhyartthouSolicitous？Whatmovesthyinquisition？
　　Know’stthounotthatmyrisingisthyfall，Andmypromotionwillbethydestruction？"
　　TowhomtheTempter，inlyracked，replied：——
　　"Letthatcomewhenitcomes。AllhopeislostOfmyreceptionintograce；whatworse？
　　Forwherenohopeisleftisleftnofear。
　　Iftherebeworse，theexpectationmoreOfworsetormentsmethanthefeelingcan。
　　Iwouldbeattheworst；worstismyport，Myharbour，andmyultimaterepose，TheendIwouldattain，myfinalgood。
　　Myerrorwasmyerror，andmycrimeMycrime；whatever，foritselfcondemned，Andwillalikebepunished，whetherthouReignorreignnot——thoughtothatgentlebrowWillinglyIcouldfly，andhopethyreign，Fromthatplacidaspectandmeekregard，Ratherthanaggravatemyevilstate，WouldstandbetweenmeandthyFather’sire（WhoseireIdreadmorethanthefireofHell）
　　AshelterandakindofshadingcoolInterposition，asasummer’scloud。
　　IfI，then，totheworstthatcanbehaste，Whymovethyfeetsoslowtowhatisbest？
　　Happiest，bothtothyselfandalltheworld，Thatthou，whoworthiestart，shouldstbetheirKing！
　　Perhapsthoulinger’stindeepthoughtsdetainedOftheenterprisesohazardousandhigh！
　　Nowonder；for，thoughintheebeunitedWhatofperfectioncaninManbefound，Orhumannaturecanreceive，considerThylifehathyetbeenprivate，mostpartspentAthome，scarceviewedtheGalileantowns，AndonceayearJerusalem，fewdays’
　　Shortsojourn；andwhatthencecouldstthouobserve？
　　Theworldthouhastnotseen，muchlessherglory，Empires，andmonarchs，andtheirradiantcourts——
　　Bestschoolofbestexperience，quickestinsightInallthingsthattogreatestactionslead。
　　Thewisest，unexperienced，willbeeverTimorous，andloth，withnovicemodesty（Ashewho，seekingasses，foundakingdom）
　　Irresolute，unhardy，unadventrous。
　　ButIwillbringtheewherethousoonshaltquitThoserudiments，andseebeforethineeyesThemonarchiesoftheEarth，theirpompandstate——
　　SufficientintroductiontoinformThee，ofthyselfsoapt，inregalarts，Andregalmysteries；thatthoumay’stknowHowbesttheiroppositiontowithstand。"
　　Withthat（suchpowerwasgivenhimthen），hetookTheSonofGoduptoamountainhigh。
　　ItwasamountainatwhoseverdantfeetAspaciousplainoutstretchedincircuitwideLaypleasant；fromhissidetworiversflowed，Theonewinding，theotherstraight，andleftbetweenFairchampaign，withlessriversinterveined，Thenmeetingjoinedtheirtributetothesea。
　　Fertilofcorntheglebe，ofoil，andwine；
　　Withherdsthepasturethronged，withflocksthehills；
　　Hugecitiesandhigh-towered，thatwellmightseemTheseatsofmightiestmonarchs；andsolargeTheprospectwasthathereandtherewasroomForbarrendesert，fountainlessanddry。
　　Tothishighmountain-toptheTempterbroughtOurSaviour，andnewtrainofwordsbegan：——
　　"Wellhavewespeeded，ando’erhillanddale，Forest，andfield，andflood，templesandtowers，Cutshortermanyaleague。Herethoubehold’stAssyria，andherempire’sancientbounds，AraxesandtheCaspianlake；thenceonAsfarasInduseast，Euphrateswest，Andoftbeyond；tosouththePersianbay，And，inaccessible，theArabiandrouth：
　　Here，Nineveh，oflengthwithinherwallSeveraldays’journey，builtbyNinusold，Ofthatfirstgoldenmonarchytheseat，AndseatofSalmanassar，whosesuccessIsraelinlongcaptivitystillmourns；
　　ThereBabylon，thewonderofalltongues，Asancient，butrebuiltbyhimwhotwiceJudahandallthyfatherDavid’shouseLedcaptive，andJerusalemlaidwaste，TillCyrussetthemfree；Persepolis，Hiscity，therethouseest，andBactrathere；
　　Ecbatanaherstructurevastthereshews，AndHecatompylosherhunderdgates；
　　ThereSusabyChoaspes，amberstream，Thedrinkofnonebutkings；oflaterfame，BuiltbyEmathianorbyParthianhands，ThegreatSeleucia，Nisibis，andthereArtaxata，Teredon，Ctesiphon，Turningwitheasyeye，thoumay’stbehold。
　　AllthesetheParthian（nowsomeagespastBygreatArsacesled，whofoundedfirstThatempire）underhisdominionholds，FromtheluxuriouskingsofAntiochwon。
　　Andjustintimethoucom’sttohaveaviewOfhisgreatpower；fornowtheParthiankingInCtesiphonhathgatheredallhishostAgainsttheScythian，whoseincursionswildHavewastedSogdiana；toheraidHemarchesnowinhaste。See，thoughfromfar，Histhousands，inwhatmartialequipageTheyissueforth，steelbowsandshaftstheirarms，Ofequaldreadinflightorinpursuit——
　　Allhorsemen，inwhichfighttheymostexcel；
　　Seehowinwarlikemustertheyappear，Inrhombs，andwedges，andhalf-moons，andwings。"
　　Helooked，andsawwhatnumbersnumberlessThecitygatesoutpoured，light-armedtroopsIncoatsofmailandmilitarypride。
　　Inmailtheirhorsesclad，yetfleetandstrong，Prauncingtheirridersbore，theflowerandchoiceOfmanyprovincesfromboundtobound——
　　FromArachosia，fromCandaoreast，AndMargiana，totheHyrcaniancliffsOfCaucasus，anddarkIberiandales；
　　FromAtropatia，andtheneighbouringplainsOfAdiabene，Media，andthesouthOfSusiana，toBalsara’shaven。
　　Hesawthemintheirformsofbattleranged，Howquicktheywheeled，andflyingbehindthemshotSharpsleetofarrowyshowersagainstthefaceOftheirpursuers，andovercamebyflight；
　　Thefieldallironcastagleamingbrown。
　　Norwantedcloudsoffoot，nor，oneachhorn，Cuirassiersallinsteelforstandingfight，Chariots，orelephantsindorsedwithtowersOfarchers；noroflabouringpionersAmultitude，withspadesandaxesarmed，Tolayhillsplain，fellwoods，orvalleysfill，Orwhereplainwasraisehill，oroverlayWithbridgesriversproud，aswithayoke：
　　Mulesafterthese，camelsanddromedaries，Andwaggonsfraughtwithutensilsofwar。
　　Suchforcesmetnot，norsowideacamp，WhenAgrican，withallhisnorthernpowers，BesiegedAlbracea，asromancestell，ThecityofGallaphrone，fromthencetowinThefairestofhersex，Angelica，Hisdaughter，soughtbymanyprowestknights，BothPaynimandthepeersofCharlemane。
　　Suchandsonumerouswastheirchivalry；
　　AtsightwhereoftheFiendyetmorepresumed，AndtoourSaviourthushiswordsrenewed：——
　　"Thatthoumay’stknowIseeknottoengageThyvirtue，andnoteverywaysecureOnnoslightgroundsthysafety，hearandmarkTowhatendIhavebroughttheehither，andshewAllthisfairsight。Thykingdom，thoughforetoldByProphetorbyAngel，unlessthouEndeavour，asthyfatherDaviddid，Thounevershaltobtain：predictionstillInallthings，andallmen，supposesmeans；
　　Withoutmeansused，whatitpredictsrevokes。
　　ButsaythouwertpossessedofDavid’sthroneByfreeconsentofall，noneopposite，SamaritanorJew；howcouldstthouhopeLongtoenjoyitquietandsecureBetweentwosuchenclosingenemies，RomanandParthian？ThereforeoneoftheseThoumustmakesurethyown：theParthianfirst，Bymyadvice，asnearer，andoflateFoundablebyinvasiontoannoyThycountry，andcaptiveleadawayherkings，AntigonusandoldHyrcanus，bound，MaugretheRoman。ItshallbemytaskTorendertheetheParthianatdispose，Choosewhichthouwilt，byconquestorbyleague。
　　Byhimthoushaltregain，withouthimnot，ThatwhichalonecantrulyreinstalltheeInDavid’sroyalseat，histruesuccessor——
　　Deliveranceofthybrethren，thoseTenTribesWhoseoffspringinhisterritoryyetserveInHabor，andamongtheMedesdispersed：
　　ThesonsofJacob，twoofJoseph，lostThuslongfromIsrael，serving，asofoldTheirfathersinthelandofEgyptserved，Thisoffersetsbeforetheetodeliver。
　　TheseiffromservitudethoushaltrestoreTotheirinheritance，then，nortillthen，ThouonthethroneofDavidinfullglory，FromEgypttoEuphratesandbeyond，Shaltreign，andRomeorCaesarnotneedfear。"
　　TowhomourSaviouransweredthus，unmoved：——
　　"MuchostentationvainoffleshlyarmAndfragilearms，muchinstrumentofwar，Longinpreparing，soontonothingbrought，Beforemineeyesthouhastset，andinmyearVentedmuchpolicy，andprojectsdeepOfenemies，ofaids，battles，andleagues，Plausibletotheworld，tomeworthnaught。
　　MeansImustuse，thousay’st；predictionelseWillunpredict，andfailmeofthethrone！
　　Mytime，Itoldthee（andthattimefortheeWerebetterfarthestoff），isnotyetcome。
　　Whenthatcomes，thinknotthoutofindmeslackOnmypartaughtendeavouring，ortoneedThypoliticmaxims，orthatcumbersomeLuggageofwarthereshewnme——argumentOfhumanweaknessratherthanofstrength。
　　Mybrethren，asthoucall’stthem，thoseTenTribes，Imustdeliver，ifImeantoreignDavid’strueheir，andhisfullsceptreswayTojustextentoverallIsrael’ssons！
　　Butwhencetotheethiszeal？WherewasitthenForIsrael，orforDavid，orhisthrone，Whenthoustood’stuphistemptertotheprideOfnumberingIsrael——whichcostthelivesofthreescoreandtenthousandIsraelitesBythreedays’pestilence？SuchwasthyzealToIsraelthen，thesamethatnowtome。
　　Asforthosecaptivetribes，themselvesweretheyWhowroughttheirowncaptivity，felloffFromGodtoworshipcalves，thedeitiesOfEgypt，BaalnextandAshtaroth，Andalltheidolatriesofheathenround，Besidestheirotherworsethanheathenishcrimes；
　　NorinthelandoftheircaptivityHumbledthemselves，orpenitentbesoughtTheGodoftheirforefathers，butsodiedImpenitent，andleftaracebehindLiketothemselves，distinguishablescarceFromGentiles，butbycircumcisionvain，AndGodwithidolsintheirworshipjoined。
　　ShouldIofthesethelibertyregard，Who，freed，astotheirancientpatrimony，Unhumbled，unrepentant，unreformed，Headlongwouldfollow，andtotheirgodsperhapsOfBethelandofDan？No；letthemserveTheirenemieswhoserveidolswithGod。
　　YetHeatlength，timetohimselfbestknown，RememberingAbraham，bysomewondrouscallMaybringthemback，repentantandsincere，AndattheirpassingcleavetheAssyrianflood，Whiletotheirnativelandwithjoytheyhaste，AstheRedSeaandJordanoncehecleft，WhentothePromisedLandtheirfatherspassed。
　　TohisduetimeandprovidenceIleavethem。"
　　SospakeIsrael’strueKing，andtotheFiendMadeanswermeet，thatmadevoidallhiswiles。
　　Sofaresitwhenwithtruthfalsehoodcontends。ParadiseRegained-book4ParadiseRegainedbyJohnMiltonBook4PerplexedandtroubledathisbadsuccessTheTempterstood，norhadwhattoreply，Discoveredinhisfraud，thrownfromhishopeSooft，andthepersuasiverhetoricThatsleekedhistongue，andwonsomuchonEve，Solittlehere，naylost。ButEvewasEve；
　　Thisfarhisover-match，who，self-deceivedAndrash，beforehandhadnobetterweighedThestrengthhewastocopewith，orhisown。
　　But——asamanwhohadbeenmatchlessheldIncunning，over-reachedwhereleasthethought，Tosalvehiscredit，andforveryspite，Stillwillbetemptinghimwhofoilshimstill，Andnevercease，thoughtohisshamethemore；
　　Orasaswarmoffliesinvintage-time，Aboutthewine-presswheresweetmustispoured，Beatoff，returnsasoftwithhummingsound；
　　Orsurgingwavesagainstasolidrock，Thoughalltoshiversdashed，theassaultrenew，（Vainbattery！）andinfrothorbubblesend——
　　SoSatan，whomrepulseuponrepulseMetever，andtoshamefulsilencebrought，Yetgivesnoto’er，thoughdesperateofsuccess，Andhisvainimportunitypursues。
　　HebroughtourSaviourtothewesternsideOfthathighmountain，whencehemightbeholdAnotherplain，long，butinbreadthnotwide，Washedbythesouthernsea，andonthenorthToequallengthbackedwitharidgeofhillsThatscreenedthefruitsoftheearthandseatsofmenFromcoldSeptentrionblasts；thenceinthemidstDividedbyariver，offwhosebanksOneachsideanImperialCitystood，WithtowersandtemplesproudlyelevateOnsevensmallhills，withpalacesadorned，Porchesandtheatres，baths，aqueducts，Statuesandtrophies，andtriumphalarcs，Gardensandgroves，presentedtohiseyesAbovethehighthofmountainsinterposed——
　　Bywhatstrangeparallax，oropticskillOfvision，multipliedthroughair，orglassOftelescope，werecurioustoenquire。
　　AndnowtheTempterthushissilencebroke：——
　　"ThecitywhichthouseestnootherdeemThangreatandgloriousRome，QueenoftheEarthSofarrenowned，andwiththespoilsenrichedOfnations。TheretheCapitolthouseest，AbovetherestliftinghisstatelyheadOntheTarpeianrock，hercitadelImpregnable；andthereMountPalatine，Theimperialpalace，compasshuge，andhighThestructure，skillofnoblestarchitects，Withgildedbattlements，conspicuousfar，Turrets，andterraces，andglitteringspires。
　　Manyafairedificebesides，morelikeHousesofgods——sowellIhavedisposedMyaeriemicroscope——thoumay’stbehold，Outsideandinsideboth，pillarsandroofsCarvedwork，thehandoffamedartificersIncedar，marble，ivory，orgold。
　　Thencetothegatescastroundthineeye，andseeWhatconfluxissuingforth，orenteringin：
　　Praetors，proconsulstotheirprovincesHasting，oronreturn，inrobesofstate；
　　Lictorsandrods，theensignsoftheirpower；
　　Legionsandcohorts，turmsofhorseandwings；
　　Orembassiesfromregionsfarremote，Invarioushabits，ontheAppianroad，OrontheAEmilian——somefromfarthestsouth，Syene，andwheretheshadowbothwayfalls，Meroe，Niloticisle，and，moretowest，TherealmofBocchustotheBlackmoorsea；
　　FromtheAsiankings（andParthianamongthese），FromIndiaandtheGoldenChersoness，AndutmostIndianisleTaprobane，Duskfaceswithwhitesilkenturbantswreathed；
　　FromGallia，Gades，andtheBritishwest；
　　Germans，andScythians，andSarmatiansnorthBeyondDanubiustotheTauricpool。
　　AllnationsnowtoRomeobediencepay——
　　ToRome’sgreatEmperor，whosewidedomain，Inampleterritory，wealthandpower，Civilityofmanners，artsandarms，Andlongrenown，thoujustlymay’stpreferBeforetheParthian。Thesetwothronesexcept，Therestarebarbarous，andscarceworththesight，Sharedamongpettykingstoofarremoved；
　　Thesehavingshewnthee，IhaveshewntheeallThekingdomsoftheworld，andalltheirglory。
　　ThisEmperorhathnoson，andnowisold，Oldandlascivious，andfromRomeretiredToCapreae，anislandsmallbutstrongOntheCampanianshore，withpurposethereHishorridlustsinprivatetoenjoy；
　　CommittingtoawickedfavouriteAllpubliccares，andyetofhimsuspicious；
　　Hatedofall，andhating。Withwhatease，Enduedwithregalvirtuesasthouart，Appearing，andbeginningnobledeeds，Might’stthouexpelthismonsterfromhisthrone，Nowmadeasty，and，inhisplaceascending，Avictor-peoplefreefromservileyoke！
　　Andwithmyhelpthoumay’st；tomethepowerIsgiven，andbythatrightIgiveitthee。
　　Aim，therefore，atnolessthanalltheworld；
　　Aimatthehighest；withoutthehighestattained，Willbefortheenositting，ornotlong，OnDavid’sthrone，beprophesiedwhatwill。"
　　TowhomtheSonofGod，unmoved，replied：——
　　"NordoththisgrandeurandmajesticshewOfluxury，thoughcalledmagnificence，Morethanofarmsbefore，alluremineeye，Muchlessmymind；thoughthoushould’staddtotellTheirsumptuousgluttonies，andgorgeousfeastsOncitrontablesorAtlanticstone（ForIhavealsoheard，perhapshaveread），TheirwinesofSetia，Cales，andFalerne，ChiosandCrete，andhowtheyquaffingold，Crystal，andmyrrhinecups，imbossedwithgemsAndstudsofpearl——tomeshould’sttell，whothirstAndhungerstill。Thenembassiesthoushew’stFromnationsfarandnigh！Whathonourthat，Buttediouswasteoftime，tositandhearSomanyhollowcomplimentsandlies，Outlandishflatteries？Thenproceed’sttotalkOftheEmperor，howeasilysubdued，Howgloriously。Ishall，thousay’st，expelAbrutishmonster：whatifIwithalExpelaDevilwhofirstmadehimsuch？
　　Lethistormentor，Conscience，findhimout；
　　ForhimIwasnotsent，noryettofreeThatpeople，victoronce，nowvileandbase，Deservedlymadevassal——who，oncejust，Frugal，andmild，andtemperate，conqueredwell，Butgovernillthenationsunderyoke，Peelingtheirprovinces，exhaustedallBylustandrapine；firstambitiousgrownOftriumph，thatinsultingvanity；
　　Thencruel，bytheirsportstobloodinuredOffightingbeasts，andmentobeastsexposed；
　　Luxuriousbytheirwealth，andgreedierstill，AndfromthedailySceneeffeminate。
　　WhatwiseandvaliantmanwouldseektofreeThese，thusdegenerate，bythemselvesenslaved，Orcouldofinwardslavesmakeoutwardfree？
　　Know，therefore，whenmyseasoncomestositOnDavid’sthrone，itshallbelikeatreeSpreadingandovershadowingalltheearth，OrasastonethatshalltopiecesdashAllmonarchiesbesidesthroughouttheworld；
　　AndofmyKingdomthereshallbenoend。
　　Meansthereshallbetothis；butwhatthemeansIsnotfortheetoknow，normetotell。"
　　TowhomtheTempter，impudent，replied：——
　　"IseealloffersmadebymehowslightThouvaluest，becauseoffered，andreject’st。
　　Nothingwillpleasethedifficultandnice，Ornothingmorethanstilltocontradict。
　　OntheothersideknowalsothouthatI
　　OnwhatIoffersetashighesteem，NorwhatIpartwithmeantogivefornaught，Allthese，whichinamomentthoubehold’st，Thekingdomsoftheworld，totheeIgive（For，giventome，IgivetowhomIplease），Notrifle；yetwiththisreserve，notelse——
　　Onthiscondition，ifthouwiltfalldown，AndworshipmeasthysuperiorLord（Easilydone），andholdthemallofme；
　　Forwhatcanlesssogreatagiftdeserve？"
　　WhomthusourSaviouransweredwithdisdain：——
　　"Ineverlikedthytalk，thyoffersless；
　　Nowbothabhor，sincethouhastdaredtoutterTheabominableterms，impiouscondition。
　　ButIendurethetime，tillwhichexpiredThouhastpermissiononme。Itiswritten，Thefirstofallcommandments，’ThoushaltworshipTheLordthyGod，andonlyHimshaltserve。’
　　Anddar’stthoutotheSonofGodpropoundToworshipthee，accursed？nowmoreaccursedForthisattempt，bolderthanthatonEve，Andmoreblasphemous；whichexpecttorue。
　　Thekingdomsoftheworldtotheeweregiven！
　　Permittedrather，andbytheeusurped；
　　Otherdonationnonethoucanstproduce。
　　Ifgiven，bywhombutbytheKingofkings，Godoverallsupreme？Ifgiventothee，BytheehowfairlyistheGivernowRepaid！ButgratitudeintheeislostLongsince。WertthousovoidoffearorshameAsofferthemtome，theSonofGod——
　　Tomemyown，onsuchabhorredpact，ThatIfalldownandworshiptheeasGod？
　　Gettheebehindme！Plainthounowappear’stThatEvilOne，Satanforeverdamned。"
　　TowhomtheFiend，withfearabashed，replied：——
　　"Benotsosoreoffended，SonofGod——
　　ThoughSonsofGodbothAngelsareandMen——
　　IfI，totrywhetherinhighersortThanthesethoubear’stthattitle，haveproposedWhatbothfromMenandAngelsIreceive，TetrarchsofFire，Air，Flood，andontheEarthNationsbesidesfromallthequarteredwinds——
　　GodofthisWorldinvoked，andWorldbeneath。
　　Whothenthouart，whosecomingisforetoldTomemostfatal，meitmostconcerns。
　　Thetrialhathindamagedtheenoway，Rathermorehonourleftandmoreesteem；
　　Menaughtadvantaged，missingwhatIaimed。
　　Thereforeletpass，astheyaretransitory，Thekingdomsofthisworld；IshallnomoreAdvisethee；gainthemasthoucanst，ornot。
　　Andthouthyselfseem’stotherwiseinclinedThantoaworldlycrown，addictedmoreTocontemplationandprofounddispute；
　　Asbythatearlyactionmaybejudged，When，slippingfromthymother’seye，thouwent’stAloneintotheTemple，therewastfoundAmongthegravestRabbies，disputantOnpointsandquestionsfittingMoses’chair，Teaching，nottaught。Thechildhoodshewstheman，Asmorningshewstheday。Befamous，then，Bywisdom；asthyempiremustextend，Soletextendthymindo’eralltheworldInknowledge；allthingsinitcomprehend。
　　AllknowledgeisnotcouchedinMoses’law，ThePentateuch，orwhattheProphetswrote；
　　TheGentilesalsoknow，andwrite，andteachToadmiration，ledbyNature’slight；
　　AndwiththeGentilesmuchthoumustconverse，Rulingthembypersuasion，asthoumean’st。
　　Withouttheirlearning，howwiltthouwiththem，Ortheywiththee，holdconversationmeet？
　　Howwiltthoureasonwiththem，howrefuteTheiridolisms，traditions，paradoxes？
　　Errorbyhisownarmsisbestevinced。
　　Lookoncemore，ereweleavethisspecularmount，Westward，muchnearerbysouth-west；beholdWhereontheAEgeanshoreacitystands，Builtnobly，puretheairandlightthesoil——
　　Athens，theeyeofGreece，motherofartsAndEloquence，nativetofamouswitsOrhospitable，inhersweetrecess，Cityorsuburban，studiouswalksandshades。
　　Seetheretheolive-groveofAcademe，Plato’sretirement，wheretheAtticbirdTrillsherthick-warblednotesthesummerlong；
　　There，floweryhill，Hymettus，withthesoundOfbees’industriousmurmur，oftinvitesTostudiousmusing；thereIlissusrowlsHiswhisperingstream。WithinthewallsthenviewTheschoolsofancientsages——hiswhobredGreatAlexandertosubduetheworld，Lyceumthere；andpaintedStoanext。
　　TherethoushalthearandlearnthesecretpowerOfharmony，intonesandnumbershitByvoiceorhand，andvarious-measuredverse，AEoliancharmsandDorianlyricodes，Andhiswhogavethembreath，buthighersung，BlindMelesigenes，thenceHomercalled，WhosepoemPhoebuschallengedforhisown。
　　ThencewhattheloftygraveTragedianstaughtInchorusoriambic，teachersbestOfmoralprudence，withdelightreceivedInbriefsententiousprecepts，whiletheytreatOffate，andchance，andchangeinhumanlife，Highactionsandhighpassionsbestdescribing。
　　ThencetothefamousOratorsrepair，ThoseancientwhoseresistlesseloquenceWieldedatwillthatfiercedemocraty，ShooktheArsenal，andfulminedoverGreeceToMacedonandArtaxerxes’throne。
　　TosagePhilosophynextlendthineear，Fromheavendescendedtothelow-roofedhouseOfSocrates——seetherehistenement——
　　Whom，wellinspired，theOraclepronouncedWisestofmen；fromwhosemouthissuedforthMellifluousstreams，thatwateredalltheschoolsOfAcademicsoldandnew，withthoseSurnamedPeripatetics，andthesectEpicurean，andtheStoicsevere。
　　Thesehererevolve，or，asthoulikest，athome，Tilltimematuretheetoakingdom’sweight；
　　TheseruleswillrendertheeakingcompleteWithinthyself，muchmorewithempirejoined。"
　　TowhomourSavioursagelythusreplied：——
　　"ThinknotbutthatIknowthesethings；or，thinkIknowthemnot，notthereforeamIshortOfknowingwhatIought。HewhoreceivesLightfromabove，fromtheFountainofLight，Nootherdoctrineneeds，thoughgrantedtrue；
　　Butthesearefalse，orlittleelsebutdreams，Conjectures，fancies，builtonnothingfirm。
　　ThefirstandwisestofthemallprofessedToknowthisonly，thathenothingknew；
　　Thenexttofablingfellandsmoothconceits；
　　Athirdsortdoubtedallthings，thoughplainsense；
　　Othersinvirtueplacedfelicity，Butvirtuejoinedwithrichesandlonglife；
　　Incorporalpleasurehe，andcarelessease；
　　TheStoiclastinphilosophicpride，Byhimcalledvirtue，andhisvirtuousman，Wise，perfectinhimself，andallpossessing，EqualtoGod，oftshamesnottoprefer，AsfearingGodnorman，contemningallWealth，pleasure，painortorment，deathandlife——
　　Which，whenhelists，heleaves，orboastshecan；
　　Forallhistedioustalkisbutvainboast，Orsubtleshiftsconvictiontoevade。
　　Alas！whatcantheyteach，andnotmislead，Ignorantofthemselves，ofGodmuchmore，AndhowtheWorldbegan，andhowManfell，Degradedbyhimself，ongracedepending？
　　MuchoftheSoultheytalk，butallawry；
　　Andinthemselvesseekvirtue；andtothemselvesAllgloryarrogate，toGodgivenone；
　　Ratheraccusehimunderusualnames，FortuneandFate，asoneregardlessquiteOfmortalthings。Who，therefore，seeksintheseTruewisdomfindshernot，or，bydelusionFarworse，herfalseresemblanceonlymeets，Anemptycloud。However，manybooks，Wisemenhavesaid，arewearisome；whoreadsIncessantly，andtohisreadingbringsnotAspiritandjudgmentequalorsuperior，（Andwhathebringswhatneedsheelsewhereseek？）
　　Uncertainandunsettledstillremains，Deep-versedinbooksandshallowinhimself，Crudeorintoxicate，collectingtoysAndtriflesforchoicematters，worthasponge，Aschildrengatheringpebblesontheshore。
　　Or，ifIwoulddelightmyprivatehoursWithmusicorwithpoem，wheresosoonAsinournativelanguagecanIfindThatsolace？AllourLawandStorystrewedWithhymns，ourPsalmswithartfultermsinscribed，OurHebrewsongsandharps，inBabylonThatpleasedsowellourvictor’sear，declareThatratherGreecefromustheseartsderived——
　　IllimitatedwhiletheyloudestsingThevicesoftheirdeities，andtheirown，Infable，hymn，orsong，sopersonatingTheirgodsridiculous，andthemselvespastshame。
　　Removetheirswellingepithetes，thick-laidAsvarnishonaharlot’scheek，therest，Thin-sownwithaughtofprofitordelight，WillfarbefoundunworthytocompareWithSion’ssongs，toalltruetastesexcelling，WhereGodispraisedarightandgodlikemen，TheHoliestofHoliesandhisSaints（SucharefromGodinspired，notsuchfromthee）；
　　UnlesswheremoralvirtueisexpressedBylightofNature，notinallquitelost。
　　Theiroratorsthouthenextoll’stasthoseThetopofeloquence——statistsindeed，Andloversoftheircountry，asmayseem；
　　ButhereintoourProphetsfarbeneath，Asmendivinelytaught，andbetterteachingThesolidrulesofcivilgovernment，Intheirmajestic，unaffectedstyle，ThanalltheoratoryofGreeceandRome。
　　Inthemisplainesttaught，andeasiestlearnt，Whatmakesanationhappy，andkeepsitso，Whatruinskingdoms，andlayscitiesflat；
　　Theseonly，withourLaw，bestformaking。"
　　SospaketheSonofGod；butSatan，nowQuiteataloss（forallhisdartswerespent），ThustoourSaviour，withsternbrow，replied：——
　　"Sinceneitherwealthnorhonour，armsnorarts，Kingdomnorempire，pleasesthee，noraughtBymeproposedinlifecontemplativeOractive，tendedonbygloryorfame，Whatdostthouinthisworld？TheWildernessFortheeisfittestplace：Ifoundtheethere，Andthitherwillreturnthee。YetrememberWhatIforetellthee；soonthoushalthavecauseTowishthouneverhadstrejected，thusNicelyorcautiously，myofferedaid，WhichwouldhavesettheeinshorttimewitheaseOnDavid’sthrone，orthroneofalltheworld，Nowatfullage，fulnessoftime，thyseason，Whenpropheciesoftheearebestfulfilled。
　　Now，contrary——ifIreadaughtinheaven，Orheavenwriteaughtoffate——bywhatthestarsVoluminous，orsinglecharactersIntheirconjunctionmet，givemetospell，Sorrowsandlabours，opposition，hate，Attendsthee；scorns，reproaches，injuries，Violenceandstripes，and，lastly，crueldeath。
　　Akingdomtheyportendthee，butwhatkingdom，Realorallegoric，Idiscernnot；
　　Norwhen：eternalsure——aswithoutend，Withoutbeginning；fornodateprefixedDirectsmeinthestarryrubricset。"
　　Sosaying，hetook（forstillheknewhispowerNotyetexpired），andtotheWildernessBroughtback，theSonofGod，andlefthimthere，Feigningtodisappear。Darknessnowrose，Asdaylightsunk，andbroughtinlouringNight，Hershadowyoffspring，unsubstantialboth，Privationmereoflightandabsentday。
　　OurSaviour，meek，andwithuntroubledmindAfterhisaeriejaunt，thoughhurriedsore，Hungryandcold，betookhimtohisrest，Wherever，undersomeconcourseofshades，WhosebranchingarmsthickintertwinedmightshieldFromdewsanddampsofnighthisshelteredhead；
　　But，sheltered，sleptinvain；forathisheadTheTempterwatched，andsoonwithuglydreamsDisturbedhissleep。Andeithertropicnow’Ganthunder，andbothendsofheaven；thecloudsFrommanyahorridriftabortivepouredFiercerainwithlightningmixed，waterwithfire，Inruinreconciled；norsleptthewindsWithintheirstonycaves，butrushedabroadFromthefourhingesoftheworld，andfellOnthevexedwilderness，whosetallestpines，Thoughrooteddeepashigh，andsturdiestoaks，Bowedtheirstiffnecks，loadenwithstormyblasts，Ortornupsheer。Illwastthoushroudedthen，OpatientSonofGod，yetonlystood’stUnshaken！Noryetstaidtheterrorthere：
　　InfernalghostsandhellishfuriesroundEnvironedthee；somehowled，someyelled，someshrieked，Somebentattheetheirfierydarts，whilethouSat’stunappalledincalmandsinlesspeace。
　　Thuspassedthenightsofoul，tillMorningfairCameforthwithpilgrimsteps，inamicegrey，WhowithherradiantfingerstilledtheroarOfthunder，chasedtheclouds，andlaidthewinds，Andgrieslyspectres，whichtheFiendhadraisedTotempttheSonofGodwithterrorsdire。
　　AndnowthesunwithmoreeffectualbeamsHadcheeredthefaceofearth，anddriedthewetFromdroopingplant，ordroppingtree；thebirds，Whoallthingsnowbeholdmorefreshandgreen，Afteranightofstormsoruinous，Cleareduptheirchoicestnotesinbushandspray，Togratulatethesweetreturnofmorn。
　　Noryet，amidstthisjoyandbrightestmorn，Wasabsent，afterallhismischiefdone，ThePrinceofDarkness；gladwouldalsoseemOfthisfairchange，andtoourSaviourcame；
　　Yetwithnonewdevice（theyallwerespent），Ratherbythishislastaffrontresolved，Desperateofbettercourse，toventhisrageAndmaddespitetobesooftrepelled。
　　Himwalkingonasunnyhillhefound，Backedonthenorthandwestbyathickwood；
　　Outofthewoodhestartsinwontedshape，Andinacarelessmoodthustohimsaid：——
　　"Fairmorningyetbetidesthee，SonofGod，Afteradismalnight。Iheardthewrack，Asearthandskywouldmingle；butmyselfWasdistant；andtheseflaws，thoughmortalsfearthem，AsdangeroustothepillaredframeofHeaven，OrtotheEarth’sdarkbasisunderneath，AretothemainasinconsiderableAndharmless，ifnotwholesome，asasneezeToman’slessuniverse，andsoonaregone。
　　Yet，asbeingofttimesnoxiouswheretheylightOnman，beast，plant，wastefulandturbulent，Liketurbulenciesintheaffairsofmen，Overwhoseheadstheyroar，andseemtopoint，Theyoftfore-signifyandthreatenill。
　　Thistempestatthisdesertmostwasbent；
　　Ofmenatthee，foronlythouheredwell’st。
　　DidInottellthee，ifthoudidstrejectTheperfectseasonofferedwithmyaidTowinthydestinedseat，butwiltprolongAlltothepushoffate，pursuethywayOfgainingDavid’sthronenomanknowswhen（Forboththewhenandhowisnowheretold），Thoushaltbewhatthouartordained，nodoubt；
　　ForAngelshaveproclaimedit，butconcealingThetimeandmeans？EachactisrightliestdoneNotwhenitmust，butwhenitmaybebest。
　　Ifthouobservenotthis，besuretofindWhatIforetoldthee——manyahardassayOfdangers，andadversities，andpains，ErethouofIsrael’ssceptregetfasthold；
　　Whereofthisominousnightthatclosedtheeround，Somanyterrors，voices，prodigies，Maywarnthee，asasureforegoingsign。"
　　Sotalkedhe，whiletheSonofGodwenton，Andstaidnot，butinbriefhimansweredthus：——
　　"Meworsethanwetthoufind’stnot；otherharmThoseterrorswhichthouspeak’stofdidmenone。
　　Ineverfearedtheycould，thoughnoisingloudAndthreateningnigh：whattheycandoassignsBetokeningorill-bodingIcontemnAsfalseportents，notsentfromGod，butthee；
　　Who，knowingIshallreignpastthypreventing，Obtrud’stthyofferedaid，thatI，accepting，Atleastmightseemtoholdallpowerofthee，AmbitiousSpirit！andwould’stbethoughtmyGod；
　　Andstorm’st，refused，thinkingtoterrifyMetothywill！Desist（thouartdiscerned，Andtoil’stinvain），normeinvainmolest。"
　　TowhomtheFiend，nowswolnwithrage，replied：——
　　"Thenhear，OSonofDavid，virgin-born！
　　ForSonofGodtomeisyetindoubt。
　　OftheMessiahIhaveheardforetoldByalltheProphets；ofthybirth，atlengthAnnouncedbyGabriel，withthefirstIknew，AndoftheangelicsonginBethlehemfield，Onthybirth-night，thatsungtheeSaviourborn。
　　FromthattimeseldomhaveIceasedtoeyeThyinfancy，thychildhood，andthyyouth，Thymanhoodlast，thoughyetinprivatebred；
　　Till，atthefordofJordan，whitherallFlockedtotheBaptist，Iamongtherest（Thoughnottobebaptized），byvoicefromHeavenHeardtheepronouncedtheSonofGodbeloved。
　　ThenceforthIthoughttheeworthmynearerviewAndnarrowerscrutiny，thatImightlearnInwhatdegreeormeaningthouartcalledTheSonofGod，whichbearsnosinglesense。
　　TheSonofGodIalsoam，orwas；
　　And，ifIwas，Iam；relationstands：
　　AllmenareSonsofGod；yettheeIthoughtInsomerespectfarhighersodeclared。
　　ThereforeIwatchedthyfootstepsfromthathour，Andfollowedtheestillontothiswastewild，Where，byallbestconjectures，IcollectThouarttobemyfatalenemy。
　　Goodreason，then，ifIbeforehandseekTounderstandmyadversary，whoAndwhatheis；hiswisdom，power，intent；
　　Byparleorcomposition，truceorleague，Towinhim，orwinfromhimwhatIcan。
　　AndopportunityIherehavehadTotrythee，siftthee，andconfesshavefoundtheeProofagainstalltemptation，asarockOfadamantandasacentre，firmTotheutmostofmeremanbothwiseandgood，Notmore；forhonours，riches，kingdoms，glory，Havebeenbeforecontemned，andmayagain。
　　Therefore，toknowwhatmorethouartthanman，WorthnamingtheSonofGodbyvoicefromHeaven，AnothermethodImustnowbegin。"
　　Sosaying，hecaughthimup，and，withoutwingOfhippogrif，borethroughtheairsublime，Overthewildernessando’ertheplain，TillunderneaththemfairJerusalem，TheHolyCity，liftedhighhertowers，AndhigheryetthegloriousTemplerearedHerpile，faroffappearinglikeamountOfalablaster，toptwithgoldenspires：
　　There，onthehighestpinnacle，hesetTheSonofGod，andaddedthusinscorn：——
　　"Therestand，ifthouwiltstand；tostanduprightWillasktheeskill。ItothyFather’shouseHavebroughtthee，andhighestplaced：highestisbest。
　　Nowshewthyprogeny；ifnottostand，Castthyselfdown。Safely，ifSonofGod；
　　Foritiswritten，’HewillgivecommandConcerningtheetohisAngels；intheirhandsTheyshallupliftthee，lestatanytimeThouchancetodashthyfootagainstastone。’"
　　TowhomthusJesus："Alsoitiswritten，’TemptnottheLordthyGod。’"Hesaid，andstood；
　　ButSatan，smittenwithamazement，fell。
　　AswhenEarth’sson，Antaeus（tocompareSmallthingswithgreatest），inIrassastroveWithJove’sAlcides，and，oftfoiled，stillrose，ReceivingfromhismotherEarthnewstrength，Freshfromhisfall，andfiercergrapplejoined，Throttledatlengthintheairexpiredandfell，So，aftermanyafoil，theTempterproud，Renewingfreshassaults，amidsthisprideFellwhencehestoodtoseehisvictorfall；
　　And，asthatThebanmonsterthatproposedHerriddle，andhimwhosolveditnotdevoured，Thatoncefoundoutandsolved，forgriefandspiteCastherselfheadlongfromtheIsmeniansteep，So，strookwithdreadandanguish，felltheFiend，Andtohiscrew，thatsatconsulting，broughtJoylesstriumphalsofhishopedsuccess，Ruin，anddesperation，anddismay，WhodurstsoproudlytempttheSonofGod。
　　SoSatanfell；andstraightafieryglobeOfAngelsonfullsailofwingflewnigh，WhoontheirplumyvansreceivedHimsoftFromhisuneasystation，andupbore，Asonafloatingcouch，throughtheblitheair；
　　Then，inafloweryvalley，sethimdownOnagreenbank，andsetbeforehimspreadAtableofcelestialfood，divineAmbrosialfruitsfetchedfromtheTreeofLife，AndfromtheFountofLifeambrosialdrink，Thatsoonrefreshedhimwearied，andrepairedWhathunger，ifaughthunger，hadimpaired，Orthirst；and，ashefed，AngelicquiresSungheavenlyanthemsofhisvictoryOvertemptationandtheTempterproud：——
　　"TrueImageoftheFather，whetherthronedInthebosomofbliss，andlightoflightConceiving，or，remotefromHeaven，enshrinedInfleshlytabernacleandhumanform，Wanderingthewilderness——whateverplace，Habit，orstate，ormotion，stillexpressingTheSonofGod，withGodlikeforceenduedAgainsttheattempterofthyFather’sthroneAndthiefofParadise！HimlongofoldThoudidstdebel，anddownfromHeavencastWithallhisarmy；nowthouhastavengedSupplantedAdam，and，byvanquishingTemptation，hastregainedlostParadise，Andfrustratedtheconquestfraudulent。
　　HenevermorehenceforthwilldaresetfootInparadisetotempt；hissnaresarebroke。
　　For，thoughthatseatofearthlyblissbefailed，AfairerParadiseisfoundednowForAdamandhischosensons，whomthou，ASaviour，artcomedowntoreinstall；
　　Wheretheyshalldwellsecure，whentimeshallbe，Oftempterandtemptationwithoutfear。
　　Butthou，InfernalSerpent！shaltnotlongRuleintheclouds。Likeanautumnalstar，Orlightning，thoushaltfallfromHeaven，troddownUnderhisfeet。Forproof，erethisthoufeel’stThywound（yetnotthylastanddeadliestwound）
　　Bythisrepulsereceived，andhold’stinHellNotriumph；inallhergatesAbaddonruesThyboldattempt。HereafterlearnwithaweTodreadtheSonofGod。He，allunarmed，Shallchasethee，withtheterrorofhisvoice，Fromthydemoniacholds，possessionfoul——
　　Theeandthylegions；yellingtheyshallfly，Andbegtohidetheminaherdofswine，LesthecommandthemdownintotheDeep，Bound，andtotormentsentbeforetheirtime。
　　Hail，SonoftheMostHigh，heirofbothWorlds，QuellerofSatan！OnthygloriousworkNowenter，andbegintosaveMankind。"
　　ThustheytheSonofGod，ourSaviourmeek，Sungvictor，and，fromheavenlyfeastrefreshed，Broughtonhiswaywithjoy。He，unobserved，Hometohismother’shouseprivatereturned。END。