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€^|^ertses ^NSLotif^it^' Eiturats. 



THE 



COMPLETE POEMS 



OF 



Br. Sosep}) iSeaumont 



(1615-1699) 



FOIt THE FIRST TIME COLLECTED AND EDITED: 

WITH MEMORIADINTRODUCTION, NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS, 

GLOSSARIAL INDEX, AND PORTRAIT, dfe. 

BY 

The Rev. ALEXANDER B. GROSART, LL.D., F.S.A. 

ST. GEORGE'S, BLACKBURN, LANCASHIRE. 



IN TWO VOLUMES. 
VOL. I. 



\. r 



PRINTED FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION. 
1880. 



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THOMAS AND ARCHIBALD CONSTABLE. PRINTERS TO HER MAJESTY. 



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ri. 



CONTENTS OF VOL. I. 



MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION :— 



PAGE 



I. Biographical, ........... ix 

II. Critical, ........... xxxvi 

APPENDICES--I. Letter from Cole mss. XL Letter from ARCHiGOLOGiA. 

III. Beaumont at Schooi^ etc IV. Further Minor Poems, . • Ixxxi 

PSYCHE— Dedication, ........... 4 

The Author to the Reader, . . .5 

The Editor (1703) TO THE Reader, ....... 6 

In sacred Memory of Dr. Beaumont, by Dr. Samuel Woodford, . 7-10 



Canto L THE PREPARATIVE, , . 

Canto II. LUST CONQUERED, 

Canto III. THE GIRDLE, OR LOVE-TOKEN, 

Canto IV. THE REBELLION, . 

Canto V. THE PACIFICATION, 

Canto VL THE HUMILIATION, 

Canto VII. THE GREAT LITTLE ONE, 

Canto VIH. THE PILGRIMAGE, . 

Canto IX. THE TEMPTATION, 

Canto X. THE MARVELS, . 

Canto XI. THE TRAITOR, 

Notes and Illustrations appended to each Canto. 

PORTRAIT to fact Title-page, 



11-28 
«9-44 
45-^ 
61-78 

79^ 
97-119 
120-140 
141-162 
163-182 
183-211 
212-231 



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C M. INGLEBY, Esq., M.A. LL.D., 

VALENTINES, ILFORD. 

1 HOU CAM*ST, MY BEAUMONT, OF A NOBLE RACE, 

THE GREAT HOUSE OF GRACE-DIEU ; NOR THINN'D NOR SERE 
THE WREATH THOU WEAR-ST : FLETCHER'S AUGUST COMPEER 

AND HIS RARE BROTHER. HAD AGREED TO GRACE 

THEE WITH THEIR PRAISES. NOR DISDAINED TO TRACE 

THE CURRENT OF THY SONG TO THOSE HEIGHTS, WHERE 
AMID SUPERNAL SHINE AND SHADE. AND AIR 

AMPLER THAN EARTH'S. AND TOUCH'D OF NOUGHT THAT'S BASE, 

POETS— NOT MADE BUT BORN— HOLD FELLOWSHIP. 

GRANTED THAT 'PSYCHE'S' PINIONS SINK NOT RISE 

O' TIMES. AND MEN WHO CHOOSE TO NOTE EACH SLIP 
MAY CHANCE TO OPEN SUPERCILIOUS EYES— 

'TIS A GREAT POEM. FRIEND! FORBEAR COMPLAINT. 

AND WHEN THE BARD COMES SHORT. REVERE THE SAINT. ^ 

ALEXANDER B, GROSART. 



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c 



MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION. 



I.— BIOGRAPHICAL. 



IT has been my privilege, in an introduc- 
tion to the Fuller Worthies' Library 
collection of the Poems of Sir John 
Beaumont, to recall attention to the illus- 
trious house of Beaumont. Thither I may 
be permitted to refer those who wish to 
know more of a family, than which few in 
England have been so permanently associated 
with poetry and poets from the days of the 
' Mermaid Inn ' circle to our own, as repre- 
sented by Sir George Beaumont and 
WiLUAM Wordsworth. Even with the 
best genealogical authorities anxious to help, 
I have not been successful in tracing the 
links between the Grace-dieu and other 
Leicestershire Beaumonts and our Poet 
But all are agreed that he did descend from 
them. Gee thus puts it : — 

' The gieat Author . . . derived his descent from 
the ancient fiunily of Beaumont in Leicestershire : 
his lather Mr. John Beanmont descended from a 
younger branch of that house, settled at Hadleigh, 
at that time a wealthy trading Corporation in the 
County of Suffolk, where he employed the moderate 
fortune allotted to him as a younger brother, in the 
Woollen Manufiurture.'* 

Similarly the Historian of Hadleigh, the 
Rev. Hugh Pigot, M.A, (now of Stretham, 
Ely), describes him as * a descendant of the 

I 'An Account of the Life and Writings of the Anthor/ 
prefixed to 'Original Poems in English and Latin.' ... By 
Joseph Beaumont, D.D. . . . Cambridge, 1749, 4to. The 
'Account' is signed J. G., which represents, Mr. Pigot infonns 
me, the Rer. John Gee, M. A., of Peteriiottse. 

46 



Leicestershire family of that name,' * though/ 
he observes, 'his immediate relations, like 
those of Lawrence Bretton, were engaged in 
the cloth-trade here.'^ The * though' was 
scarcely called for, seeing that earlier and 
later it was deemed no staining of bluest 
blood to engage in an honest trade. Then 
' merchant prince* was no misnomer ; for the 
noblest in intellect and achievement were 
England's buyers and sellers. It had been 
better for our nation if the grand old tradi- 
tion had been kept up instead of the 
nonsense that ' trade ' lowers, and that only 
idleness (often impoverished) leaves 'gentle 
descent ' uncontaminated. The great Queen 
herself was avowedly a foremost ' trader.' 

In East Anglian Notes and Queries (April 
i860, pp. 73-4), a well-qualified local anti- 
quary (F. S. Growse, Esq.) furnishes a 
Note and pedigree of our Worthy ; and as 
the former is corrective, in one important 
point, of Mr. Pigot, it must find a place 
here, as well as the pedigree (abbreviated) : — 

' Looking thioiigh the Histoiy of Hadldgh, which 
has recently i^peared in the Proceedings of the 

I'Hadlelgh. The Town ; The Church : and the Grant Men 
who hnve been bom in, or connected with the Puish.' APaper 
read before the Suffolk Ardueological Institute, at their Meet- 
ing at Hadleigh, October 9, 1857. By the Rev. Hugh Pigot, 
M.A., Curate of Hadleigh. Lowestoft : i860, 4ta , pp. x., 989. 
Mr. Pigot has been so obliging as to intrust me with his own 
interleaved copy of his book. The additions and corrections 
axe numerous and important ; and it were well if a new editioa 
could be published. It might easily be made a much more 
Talnable work dian even now it is. Resort throu^^iout to first- 
hand sources would spedally improve it 



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MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION. 



Sttflfolk Institute of Archaeology, I notice a slight 
exTor (p. 158) which it may be worth while to correct 
Joseph Beaumont's mother was not an Alabaster, but 
one of his father's cousins, of the same Christian 
name as his father, married into that family. This 
appears from an inscription in the north aisle of 
Bildeston church : 

Michael Beaumont married to Maigaret, 
y« daughter of . . . Skepper, of Bilderstone, 
in the County of Suffolk, clothier, by whom he 
had Margaret and Alice. At the age of 64 years 
he departed this life, y« 14® day of December, 



the year of grace 1614, whose body lieth under 
this stone, and his spirit is restored to God who 
gave it. 

On the north side were interred John 
Beaumont his eldest Son ; y« 50^ of No- 
:vember, 1641, aged 59 yrs : and Susan 
his wife, daughter of John Alabaster of 
Hadlei^, gent, the io«> day of Febniar[y] 
1664. John had living at his decease 
3 Sons and 5 daughters. 

The pedigree, then, stands thus : — 



Robert Biadmont of Bildestone, who came from Leicestershire. 



Julian, of Hadleigh* 



Michael, of BildestonenMAKGAEsr, dinriiter of 
Skepper of Bildeston. 



Edwaed, ofHadleigh*->ALiCB, John, of Hadleiffh,: 
(died 1645, St. 65). d' of clothier, died 1603, 
Robert set. 69. 
Sufkin. 



jloiept 'Bottmont, Z>.Z> 



Sarah, d' 
of Edward 
Clarke of 

East 
Beighdt. 



John, of Bildeston» Susan, d' 



(clothier, died 
1614, set. 59). 



John, of Bildeston»ANNA, d' of W** Mann 



of John Samuel 
Alabaster (had issue), 
of Had- 

letgh, Jonathan 
gent., died (had issue). 
1664. 



died 1703, set 80. 



of Hitcham, died 1681. 



Michael of Bildeston, Benjamin, 
clothier; died 1689, died 1679, 
seL 62 (had issue). set 49, j./. 



John Beaumont,»Susan, d' of W"* William Beaumont,=Mary Clarke, died 

bom 16^7, died RevettofBilde- of Bildeston: died 171 7, set 62. 

1703. ston Hall, Esq., 1708, set. 58 (had 

died 1692. issue). 



Other 



I 



In agreement with this pedigree, the Parish 
Register of Hadleigh furnishes several entries. 
Under burials in 1586 occurs the name of 
' Julian Beaumont, Clothier/ and it is added 
in another, though ancient handwriting, 
'father of Edward and John of Hadleigh, 
and son of Robert of Bildeston, who came 
out of Leicestershire.'^ It thus appears that 
our Poet was son of John Beaumont of 

1 Pigot, as before, pi 157. 



Hadleigh, Clothier, and Sarah Clarke. He 
was bom on the 13th of March, 16 16, and 
baptized on the sist of the same month, the 
entry running — < Joseph Beaumont, son to 
John Beaumont, Clothier.'^ 

Hadleigh, in its site and surroundings 
and memories, was a covetable birthplace. 
It is of historical renown. Among the 
'great' men — ^allowing the Historian's par- 

1 Ibid. p. 158. 



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MEMORIAL^INTRODUCTION, 



donable adjective-^^associated with it, are 

not a few names of still living interest — 

Rowland Taylor, 'martyr/ pre-eminent, 

and Dr. William Alabaster, in spite of 

himself immortal, in the 'lofty praise' of 

Edmund Spenser in Colin Ciaufs come home 

again. Later there came Nathan Drake, 

M.D., a pioneer in modem literary research 

and criticism, who has not received that 

recognition which he deserves, though stolen 

from everywhere ; and more recently as 

vicar, Hugh James Rose, B.D., and as 

curates, no less than Dean Robert Lyall 

and the present Archbishop of Dublin.^ 

The Reader desirous of information on the 

story of this quaint old Suffolk town must 

consult the matterful book of Mr. Pigot (as 

before). Through all * Psyche ' there is no 

allusion to it ; but in one of the posthumous 

Latin Poems — * Ad T, S. qui ruri agentem, 

Incusavit languentis amoris ' he apostrophises 

his native stream, the Brett, and his native 

place, e,g, .— 

'Tti, Brette, pmtis qui recreas sitim, 
Tortisque furtim laberis atriis 

Qui fallis Hadldam fluentis 

Quae fiigiunt remanentque semper,' etc' 

His earliest known verse (Latin), as re- 
covered and sent me by Mr. Swinburne, also 
recalls Hadleigh.* His Versicle of *The 
Journey' celebrates his father and mother 
devoutly and lovingly : — 

' My Parents dear to see to-day 
My duty summons me away : 
Yet must my heart first wait on Thee, 
Great Father, both of them and me. 
So guide my journey, that I may 
Remember still Thou art my Way. 
Thou art my Way, and if of Thee I miss, 
My plainest Path will prove a Predpioe.' 

(Vol 11. p. 044.) 

Dr. Nathan Drake in his chatty papers in 
'Noontide Leisure'^ imagines that Uranius 
(in 'Psyche,' c. xxiiL) was portrayed in reminis- 
cence of the martyrdom of the Hadleigh 

1 Pigot, &«. i See our VoL II. p. 96a 

S Ibid, 4 VoL L pp. 859-303 : Vol. ii pp. 349-365. 



Worthy and Witness, the illustrious Puritan, 
Rowland Taylor. He forgot our Poet's 
unhapi^ scorn of the Puritans, and the 
impossibility of praise from him for such an 
one as Taylor — ^as will be found onward. 

I must now draw upon Gee — ^his first 
Biographer — ^for details of his youth. He 
thus writes : — 

' He discovered, even in his earliest years, such a 
surprising readiness of wit, and so strong an inclina- 
tion to letters, that his father, who was himself a 
lover of learning, quickly determined to give this, 
the fiivourite of his hopes, an education suitable to 
his promising genius. Westminster School was 
wannly recommended to the good man by his friends, 
as not doubting that his son would there soon improve 
his natural talents with all that politeness and elegancy 
which was then, and still is, peculiar to that place : 
Bat he^ considering that the most valuable education 
is that which lays a foundation for virtue and good 
morals, and tinctures the mind with a strong sense of 
the obligation to all social and religious duties, could 
be prevailed upon by none of the most flattering in- 
ducements to place him at so great a distance ftoeaa 
his own prudent care and immediate inspection. He 
considered that giddy youth is pliable and soft to the 
impressions of vicious examples, and therefore fixed 
him to the place of his own residence to receive the 
rudiments of language, where there was then a 
Grammar School of some character.'* 

Hadleigh ' Grammar School ' has no place 
in Howard Staunton's * Great Schools of 
England,' albeit Suffolk holds its own among 
these.^ There can be little doubt that if 
Master Joseph had been sent to famous 
Westminster the benefit would have been 
life-long. His Latinity to the close was 
corrupt and unscholarly, alike in verse and 
prose. That at least had been prevented 
had he been enrolled among the 'Alumni 
Westmonasterienses.'® Nor would he have 
been the worse of escape from home-coddling 

1 Gee, as before, pp. ii.-iiL > 2d edn. (1869), pp. 5oa-547. 

S See the noble Yokime so entided. by Joseph Welch : new 
edn., 2853. A floating straw or feather shows how a current 
flows, and independent of the archaic character of Beanmonc's 
Latinity, there are slips in classical names and allusions such 
as no exact Scholar could have made, t^..^ in Psyche, c. i., 
St 4, he apostrophises Helicon as a fountain, not a mountain : 
and this is typinl, albeit the blunder is frequent elsewhere. 



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MEMORIAI^INTRODUCTION. 



and over-praise. I suspect a good deal of 
his intellectual as well as physical valetu- 
dinarianism might be traced to his originally 
narrow and provincial experiences. His 
later Biographer supposes that the elder 
Beaumont was led to his decision for Had- 
leigh 'Grammar School/ against Westminster, 
' by the successful career at the University 
of Boise, [Bishop] Overall, [Dean William] 
Fuller, and [Dr. Lawrence] Bretton, who 
had been educated there a few years before.'^ 
Be this as it may, * here our Author,' con- 
tinues Gee — 

' spent his youth under the eye of his watchful parent, 
and made so surprising a progress in classical learn- 
ing, that he soon became famUiar with the most 
valuable authors of Antiquity, whose writings he 
read with so much taste, and digested with so much 
judgment, that with the assistance of a very happy 
memory, he could ever after readily draw out their 
most beautiful sentiments for the use and refinement 
of his own." 

Terence was a life-long favourite with 
him.^ Whatever the quality of his initiation 
into the tongues, it is clear that the quantity 
of his reading was prodigious. So that 
regarded generally he must have been well- 
furnished — ^according to the standard of the 
day — ^for the University. He proceeded to 
Cambridge in his sixteenth year. The 
college chosen was Peterhouse. Its Master 
was Dr. Cosin — afterwards Bishop of Durham. 
I have been favoured with the following ex- 
tract from the Admission Book of Peter- 
house by its present distinguished Master 
(the Rev. James Porter, M.A.)* :— 

1 Pigot, as before, p. 158. * As before, p. ill 

S Gee tells us—' From his first acquaintance with Terence 
he was remarkably desirous of imitating the elegant turn and 
sprightliness of that Author's stile ; and to that purpoee he was 
always observed to carry a small edition <tf him in his pocket 
to the end of his life' (pp^ iii.-iv.). 

^ I have to return my hearty thanks to the Master for his 
deep interest in my edition of Beaumont's Poems, and unfail- 
ing attention to my (I fear) over-frequent and troublesome 
inquiries. Onward, he has enabled me to print for the first 
time important documents. Would that all Masters of Colleges 
had the same fine jealousy for the honour of their several Col- 
leges! I trust he will ere long give us a History of his 
College and iu celebrities. 



' Not : a6. Jocephu Beaumont* Suffolc. 

1631. admiaras Pensioiuuriiis lub. cuitodia M** 
Home.' 

Only on the July 6th preceding, his 
after-friend Richard Crashaw had been 
admitted of Pembroke. Gee once more is 
eulogistic : — 

' [At Peterhoiiie] by a close appUcation to eveiy 
bnmch of UniTenitylearnizig, he soon made an extra- 
ordinary proficiency, and by his open behaviour and 
unaffected manners brought himself into the affection 
of the members of that society, and the esteem of all 
who knew him ; which made his conversation eagerly 
courted by all who had a sincere regard for learning 
and virtue. Thus respected, beloved, and caressed, 
our young student spent his first four years in the 
University, where he never lost sight of the ends for 
which he was placed there, the acquurement of know- 
ledge, and the improvement of virtue : he strictly 
observed the Statutes of the University, and those of 
his own Collie; he constantly attended at the 
Chapel hours of devotion, with meek and unaffected 
piety ; and his exercises of every kind were performed 
with so much accuracy and judgment, that they were 
then heard with the greatest pleasure, and remem- 
bered many years after with the highest applause.' ^ 

From the University and College Records 
I glean these data. ' He took the degree 
of B.A. in 1634. He was admitted Fellow 
of the College on November 20th, 1636, by 
the patronage of Dr. Cosin. He proceeded 
M.A. at the same time with Richard 
Crashaw, — who in 1636 had passed from 
Pembroke to Peterhouse — in 1638. It is 
extremely pleasing to know that Joseph 
Beaumont valued Richard Crashaw not 
as Poet only but as man. I like to linger 
over the unmistakable tribute worked into 
' Psyche ; ' • and I am sure every reader of 
this Introduction will be glad to have it 
under his eye, thus : — 

' But O bow low all these bow down l)efbre 
NatiansuM's and the World's immortal Glory; 
Him, whose heav'n-fired Soul did sweetly soar 
Up to the top of every stage and story 

Of Poetry, transforming in his way 

Each Must into a true Urania, 

1 As before* pp. it-v. 

i Gee, Pigot and Master of Peteihoiue to mytelf, as before. 

* C. nr. St to6-ioS. 



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MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION. 



Xlll 



And by this heart-attracting Pattern Tktm 
My anfy wortky sei/, thy Songs didst frame : 
Witness those polish'd TtmpU Stt^s, which now 
Stand as the Ladder to thy mounting fame ; 
And* spight of all thy IVavels, make 't appear 
Th' art more in England than when Thou wert here. 

More unto others, but not so to me 
Privy of old to all thy secret Worth : 
What half-lost 1 endure for want of Tkett 
The Worid will read in this mishapen Birth, 
Fair had my Psyche been, had she at first 
By thy judicious hand been drest and nurst.' 

Thtis snug in his Fellowship, Gee expati- 
ates characteristically of him : — 

'In this happy station of life, unembarrassed 
with the cares and provisions of the busy world, 
and exactly fitted to gratify the longings of an 
active, contemplative mind, our Author found 
himself at liberty to pursue the plan of studies 
which be before had formed to himself of making 
himself acquainted with the Scriptures in their native 
tongue ; and from thence, of examining the state of 
Christianity firom its fountain, through the succesuve 
ages of the Church down to his own. This was a 
large field, and opened to him an almost boundless 
prospect, which would have startled a less inquisi- 
tive mind* But no difficulties were great enough to 
abate his vigorous labours, in the search of truth, and 
the most concerning of all truths, Religion. He had 
already with unwearied and unequalled application 
exhausted all the fountains of Greek and Roman 
learning ; he had digested the annals of both those 
polite nations with amawng accuracy ; he had read 
their most celebrated orators with great care and 
judgment, and could upon all occasions exert that 
happy propriety, strength of reasoning, and graceful 
and sublime figures which are observed to be familiar 
to those justly-admired writers ; he had studied 
eveiy species of poetry with the finest taste and 
delicacy, and entered into the true spirit of them all, 
from the tender and plamtive elegance of elegy, to 
the lofty majesty of the epic and tragic poem : and 
to all this, he had made himself familiar with every 
branch of Philosophy then in vogue. Thus furnished 
with all the assbtances that human learning could 
afford, he set himself to the study of divine knowledge 
with indefatigable assiduity : he had observed with 
concern the various and sometimes disagreeing senses 
in the several translations of the Bible, which could 
by no other method be reconciled than by a recourse 
to the original Hebrew ; he therefore in his aistyear 
made himself acquainted with the sacred writers 
hi their own e xpr essive and manly language[s]; 
and notwithstanding the difficulties and discourage- 



ments which usually attend such an undertaking, 
especially at that time of life, he examined every 
version with great diligence and a scrupulous exact- 
ness, and wrote in the margin of an English Bible 
short but critically just remarks, which have been seen 
and read by the Editor with the most sensible 
pleasure. Having thus opened the way to the 
genume sense and true meaning of the inspired books, 
he proceeded, in pursuance of the design which he at 
first laid, to the study of the primitive ecclesiastical 
writers ; from all which he made such large and use- 
ful abstracts, and in such a taste and method, that m 
them the reader may discover the solid leanaing, and 
beautiful elegance of stile, which shone forth in the 
work of Basil, with the clear unconstrained eloquence 
which adorned the writings of Chrysostom. But as he 
always considered knowledge which has no influence 
upon the lives and manners of men, as a dead and 
useless treasure, he afterwards recollected the illus- 
trious examples of those Christian heroes who had 
suffered in the cause of religion and virtue, and 
digested a short account of the most material and 
interesting circumstances of their lives into the form 
of a Calendar ; that not a single day might pass with- 
out its proper guide and remembrancer.' ^ 

One is constrained to lament that this 
enormous research and reading bore such 
small fruit With every 'Pleasure of Im- 
agination ' in regard to his after ' Lectures ' 
and general teaching as Professor, two hard 
&cts cannot be got over, as they cannot hon- 
estly be concealed. The first is, that the 
selected specimens of his ' learning ' in the 
volume of 1749 present him as childishly- 
credulous in defending miracles (' De Legen- 
dis Sanctorum Historiis Dissertatio,' pp. 107- 
1 1 7), as perversely unphilosophical and un- 
critical, and in their Latinity unpolished and 
awkward, in his ' Dissertations * or ' Deter- 
minations ' ('DifRcultas intelligendi partim 
provenit a re, partim ab intellectu,' etc., pp. 
1 18-120, and ' Angeli cognuscunt singularia,' 
etc., pp. 120-122) while his Annotations on 
scattered verses of a iii of St Paul's Epistle to 
the Colossians, are miserably commonplace, 
without exegetical penetration, or vitality, or 
unction, or Bengelian concinnity. The 
second is, that contemporaneously Dr. John 

1 As before, pp. v.-ix. 



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XIV 



MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION. 



LiGHTFooT, Dr. Ralph Cudworth, Theo- 
PHiLUS Gale turned their co-equal vastitude 
of reading to practical account in great books 
that still live, whereas the small dust of 
oblivion has long thickened and grown gray 
unvenerably, over the unsorted dead and 
cumbrous mss. of our helluo librorum. It 
pains me to thus write ; but if we are to be 
righteous and measured in our estimates, we 
must refuse the high name of Scholar to 
* learning' (so-called) of Beaumont's type. 
Discrepant facta cum dictis. Perchance the 
very surplusage of Gee's demand upon our 
homage provokes to denial But while re- 
ducing to its proper dimensions the indis- 
criminative panegyric of his first biographer, 
far be it from us to seek to withhold admir- 
ation from the resolute purpose, the laborious 
toil, the pure employment, the brave seques- 
tering, the holy impulse, of the life of those 
busy and toiling years. While so many 
others were following in wild pursuit the 
pleasures of ' the world, the flesh, and the 
devil,* and haunting the Court and *gay' 
society, it wins our reverence to find one 
laying his plan of life on foundations so un- 
worldly, so unselfish, so worthy. In this he 
was of kin with his after-antagonist Henry 
More earlier, and with William Words- 
worth later. 
Turning again to Gee, we read : — 

* We haye hitherto seen our Author in his study 
busily employed in forming his own mind to the duties 
of a good man and a sincere Christian : in his 34th 
year he was called out by the Master of his CoU^, 
and appointed guardian and director of the manners 
and learning of the students of that society. He 
chearfuUy undertook the Important charge, and exe- 
cuted it with the utmost vigilance, anxiety, and ten- 
derness for his pupik. He wisely and honestly con- 
sidered the force and permanency of early impres- 
sions ; and that no rank or station of life which 
Providence should afterwards assign to them could 
be filled with propriety without sobriety, honesty, 
benevolence, and an awful sense of the Supreme 
Being : he therefore made it his first and principal 
care to form the morals of his pupils, and directed 



them in the way to the practice of ereiy virtue, not 
so much by fHendiy and moving admonitions, in 
which he excelled most men, as by his own more 
persuasive and insinuating example, in which he 
surely excelled all.' > 

It is impossible to think without throb of 
emotion of one so comparatively young 
bearing himself with so much gravity and 
unsulliedness. One is inevitably reminded 
of St Paul's ideal ' young man ' — < Be sober- 
minded [discreet]: in all things shewing 
thyself a pattern of good works : in doctrine 
shewing uncomiptness, gravity, sincerity, 
sound speech, that cannot be condemned ; 
that he that is of the contrary part may be 
ashamed, having no evil thmg to say of 
you ' (Titus iL 6-8). 

The date reminds us that when the Tutor 
entered on his duties * coming events' were 
casting 'their shadows before.' Gee thus 
puts it : — 

* When the spirit of evil dissention was gone abroad, 
and the storm was gathering, which afterwmrds fell 
with so much weight upon the people of England^ 
and with redoubled nge upon the Clergy of the 
Established Church ; our Author, who was a firm 
friend to just prerogative, and heartily attached to the 
cause of his unfortunate and much-abused Prince, set 
himself to describe historically the calamitous state 
of the Roman Empire under the two sons of Thea- 
iosius ; here he painted in the most striking colours 
the scenes of horror and misery which that period, big 
with all the mischiefs which false counsellors and 
ambitious ministers could produce, abundantly fur- 
nishes ; and, as it seems to have been his principal 
intention to display the fatal end of factious conten- 
tions, and the triumphs of a lawful Prince over his 
rebellious subjects, he concludes that collection in 
these words, **the fatal disasters of all these rebel- 
lious men, and the final success of Homarius, proclaim 
aloud to the whole world what they may expect, who, 
having sold their conscience to ambition, rely only 
upon human policy and mortal strength ; and what 
those shall receive, who £uthfully defending Christ's 
truth and church, fix their trust in piety and catholick 
religion : as also what issue infallibly follows upon 
disloyalty; and what protection secures lawful au- 
thority. " This was finished in 1641 , and contains 401 

1 As before, pp. ix.-x. 



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MEMORIAI^INTRODUQTION. 



XV 



pages in 4iow Bat alas I his intended parallel did 
not hold good ; for the royal prerogative whidi had 
been at first indeed strained too hi^, being after* 
wards too much let down, the constitution, for want 
of its proper barrier on that side, oonld not support 
itself, and what followed is too well known to need 
any farther description.'* 

Mr. Pigot follows suit . — 

*■ Thus, when elected in his 24th year, he was un- 
usually wtU-quaUfied to instruct his pupils, both in 
secular and sound religious learning, and to maintain 
both them and himself firm in " the old paths ** when 
so many others faltered and fell beneath the trials of 
the times. He was more successfiil than even Origen, 
who trained many catechumens who were constant 
unto death (Eusebius, Ecdes. Hist B. VL c. iv.)» for 
every one of his pupils remained stedfast in his 
attachment to the Church and to the King— not one 
fell away.'* 

These partisan words of Gkb and Pigot — 
the latter being a kind of adumbration of 
the former — must not be permitted to divert 
us into large controversy on the Great Civil 
War. But if in 1641 and 1749 it was the 
mode to designate the great historic struggle 
by the grotesquerie of ' factious contentions ' 
it is to-day an anachronism and an outrage 
so to pronounce upon a sad and awful but 
patriotic conflict for our Civil and Religious 
Liberties. For myself, I have not one syllable 
of either anger or accusation against those 
who, believing Monarchy to be divine and 
the particular King their * only lawfiil Prince/ 
sided with the King against the kingdom. 
On the King's side there was pathetic alle- 
giance, splendid courage, generous unselfish- 
ness, light-hearted sacrifice to the legend of 
loyalty. The worship however was grander 
than the god, or put it, the subjects were 
greater than the sovereign. There are Cava- 
liers whose names must remain among the 
proud memories of England for all time. 
But in the knowledge of who led the Roimd- 
heads, and what our Political and Religious 
Liberties owe to the so-called ' false counsel- 



lAsbeforeip. 159. 



•P. W 



lors' and 'ambitious ministers,' in the recol- 
lection of what the Pyms and Hampdens, 
Fairfaxes and Blakes, Eliots and Mil- 
tons, and Oliver Cromwell sufifered and 
* witnessed' and achieved for England, one's 
blood grows hot with indignation that they 
should be refused equal credit for integrity of 
motive and principle and high-hearted patri- 
otbm. If Beaumont had simply taken his 
stand for die King— right or wrong — ^and 
made the sacrifices demanded, he should have 
had our respect. But seeing that he lost no 
opportunity of opposing the government of 
the time — ^faz more truly ' ordained of God ' 
than any mere blood-transmitted or heredi- 
tary Monaichy*^it was preposterous to cry 
out of wrong when ' Ejections ' followed, and 
men loyal to the Nation were put in their 
pkTces. Thus looked at I know no more 
contemptibly whimpering and unmanly book 
than (limiting myself by my subject to 
Cambridge) the 'Querela Cantabrigiensis : 
or A Remonstrance by way of Apologie, for 
the banished Members of the late flourishing 
University of Cambridge. By some of the 
said Sufferers. Oxonis, Anno Dom. 2646.' 
As matter of historical fact, except in so far 
as all War necessarily interfered with schol- 
astic occupations, our national Universities 
never were more scholarly, never had more 
thoronghly-fumished professors and teachers 
than during the Commonwealth. Whether 
Cambridge or Oxford be regarded, the 
' Puritan ' and Nonconformist names of the 
period, throughout, can bear comparison 
with any under the Monarchy. More- 
Oliver Cromwell and his illustrious associates 
did infinitely more for even Learning and 
Religion than Charles and his advisers. 

One thing in relation to our Poet's action 
must be sorrowfully accentuated. Gee in- 
forms us — as we have seen — that he prepared 
a book of parallels between the Roman Em- 
pire under Theodosius and his two sons. 
Mr. Pigot states that it was 'published. 



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This is notably erroneous. The work never 
was published, nor so much as printed 
Had it been 'published,' I for one should 
profoundly have honoured its ' undismayed ' 
Author for so demonstrating the courage of 
his opinions and convictions. - As it is, he 
kept all to himself and his Royalist clique. 
Nor does this stand alone. As elsewhere 
(11. Critical) I give proof, he reserved all 
his objuigations and scorn of Cromwell and 
the others, all his gibes and mocks and cal- 
umnies of the Puritans and Nonconformists, 
all his sneers and taunts and fooling of the 
'common people' who crowded the conven- 
ticles to get the Gospel which was denied 
them in their Parish Churches — ^for posthu- 
mous publication. The 'Psyche' of 1648 
is dumb, when it was perilous : that of 1703 
voluble, when it was safe. Loyalty or Royal- 
ism, at once so abjectly superstitious and 
unreasoning, and at the same time so wary 
and self-careful, so timorous and truculent, 
raises one's gorge. I am willii^ to ascribe 
somewhat of this cowardice to lack of fibre 
rather than principle, to physical infirmity, 
not conscious ignobleness. But do not let 
us have your good Mr. Pigot writing 'undis- 
mayed ' or making a poltroon (morally) into 
a hero.* 

The crash of the 'Ejection' came in 
Cambridge as elsewhere. It could not be 
that one so notoriously Royalist could be 
over-passed. The rescript fi-om the Register 
of Peterhouse I redraw from my Memorial- 
Introduction to Richard Crashaw :— 

* Whereas in puisoite of an ordinance of Parlia- 
ment for regulating and reforming of the Universitie 
of Cambridge, I have ejected Mr. Beaumont, Mr. 
Penniman, Mr. Crashaw, Mr. Holder, Mr. Tyring- 
ham, late fellowes of Peterhouse. And whereas Mr. 



1 Long-lived h he vat, like the greater Richard Baxter, he 
seems to have been naturally of delicate constitution, e^.^ he 
had to obtain from the Vice-chancellor of Cambridge a dispen- 
sation to eat meat in Lent, because fish did not agree with him. 
Hook's Biogr. Diet, «.«., quoting Jacob's Uves of PMta. 
Pigot, as before, pi 164. 



Charles Hotham, Robert Quarles, Howard Bedier, 
Walter Ellis, Edward Sammes» haae been examined 
and approued by the Assembly of Divines now sitting 
at Westminster, aooording to the said Ordinance as 
fitt to be Fellowes : These are therefore to require 
you, and cuery of yon, to receive the said Charies 
Hotham, Robert Quarlcs, Howard Becher, Walter 
Ellis, Master of ArU; and Edward Sammes, Bach'., 
as fellowes of your Colledge in room of the said Mr. 
Beaumont, Mr. Penniman, Mr. Crsshaw, Mr. HoMer, 
Mr. Tyringham, formerly ejected, and to give them 
place according to their seniority in the Universitie, 
in reference to all those that are or shall hereafter bee 
putt in by mee according to the Ordinance of Parlia- 
ment aforesaid. Giuen under my hand and scale 
the eleaventh day of June anno 16^ 

' Manchester. 
' To the Master, President and Fellowes 
of Peterhouse in Cambridge.' ^ 

Little is known of either the associates 
ejected with Beaumont, or of those who 
took their places, except the ' sweet singer,' 
and something more — Richard Crashaw. 
In my Memoir of him I remark — '''The 
ejection " of 1664, like that larger one of 
1662, brought much sorrowand trial toa num- 
ber of good and true souls. To one so gentle, 
shy, self-introspecdve as Crashaw, it must 
have been as the tearing down of a nest to 
a poor bird.** With our Worthy it was not 
so tragical. Before the 'Ejection' when 
'for a season,' says Mr. Pigot (after Gee), 
'his hopes seemed never likely to be 
realised, but the times [rather] grew more 
gloomy, and civil war actually broke out, he 
had recourse to religious studies as the 
best consolation of a troubled mind, and 
employed the summer of 1643 in writing 
Daily Meditations on the attributes of God, 
in which he vindicated the Divine dispen- 
sations towards mankind.' ' Prefixed to 
the MS. of these * Meditations ' — never pub- 
lished,* — ^is a kind of introductory Prayer, 

1 Vol L pp. xxziu.-zndv. (in Fuller WorduM* Libmy, * 
vob., 1879.) 

i Ihid. p. xxxiv. * As before, p. 159. 

4 Mr. Pigot it agmin mittakeD in itntinff that this book wnt 
pabliafaed. Tho MS. extended to aos pftgM, 4ta 



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which Gee printed ^as a representation of 
the humble and unaffected piety of its 
great and good Author,' and which — omit- 
ting the somewhat Pagan Greek opening — 
may here find a place : — 

'Encouraged by Thine infinite goodness, O 
Almighty God, I presume to prostrate myself before 
Thy footstool, and beg pardon for my sins : per crucem 
eip€usioium htam, domine Jesu^ miserere met, et sal- 
tfom/ac animam meam sperantem in ie. Amen* 

'The motion, which I trust Thy Holy Spirit hath 
breathed into my soul, I embrace with aU thankful- 
ness and humility : Thy will be done in my 
unworthy heart : or if I be too vile for so high and 
honourable an exercise ; divert me into any other path, 
where my ways may be acceptable unto Thee, for 
Thou art my God. O dreadful and fearful Ddty, 
give Thy poor creature leave and astistanoe to 
sacrifice his daily meditations unto Thee ; which by 
the same permission and help, he desires to employ 
about Thee : 

1. Thy glory and majesty. 

2. Thy power and magnificence. 
5. Thy wisdom and providence. 

4. Thy justice and wrath. 

5. Thy goodness and mercy. 

6. Thy patience and humility. 

7. Thy truth and purity. 

All infinite like Thyself, are the objects to which 
my thoughts aspire ; and which may vindicate my 
future works from carnal and secular vanities, to the 
honour of Thy great and precious Name. Miserere 
mei Domine, Amen,*^ 

Upon the ' Ejection ' in 1644, Beaumont 
retired to his native Hadleigh. *We are 
now,' continues Gee, ' to attend him at his 
native town of Hadleigh, to which, being 
ejected from his fellowship, he retired, and 
where he fonned a little society of gallant 
spirits, men of abused merits, which chiefly 
consisted of some of his former pupils, and 
the sons of his great friend and patron, 
Bishop Wren.' « Further—' The time when 
he took deacon's orders does not appear from 
any of the memorandums in the £unily, 
but it seems very probable that it was pre- 
vious to his expulsion from the University ; 



pp. xv.'Xvia. 



* As before, p^ svili. 



for though, on his retirement, he used all 
the methods which prudence could suggest 
to avoid danger, he constantly performed 
the daily services of the liturgy in his father's 
house, and preached to his little flock every 
Sunday.'* Whatever else needs modifica- 
tion in these and similar passages of his first 
Biographer, there can be no doubt that he 
was an exceedingly * prudent ' man, and that 
he did use 'all the methods which prudence 
could suggest to avoid danger.' Ingenious 
euphemism, if also somewhat ignoble con- 
duct 1 Alas for kingdom and king alike if 
their defenders had thus snail-like slunk and 
shrunk into comfortable retreats, and left the 
battle to be fought out by others through 
fire and sword, as these University Loyalists 
or Royalists did ! 

His main occupation while sequestered at 
Hadleigh was his ' Psyche.' In the Epistle 
of 'The Author to the Reader' we are told 
— 'The Turbulence of these Times having 
deprived me of my wonted Accommodations 
of Study, I deliberated, for the avoiding of 
meer Idleness, what Task I might safeliest 
presume upon without the Society of Books, 
and concluded upon composing this Poem.'' 
'It was begun,' Gee states, 'in April 1647, 
finished before the 13th March following, and 
published early in 1648.'* As originally 
published * Psyche ' consisted of twenty long 
cantos — subsequently extended to twenty- 
four. His rapidity his first Biographer thus 
crirically deals with >- 

' That so large a work was undertaken and com- 
pleted in so short a time, may create some surprise in 
a reader onacquainted with the vigorous imagination, 
and fertile flow of fimcy, which so remarkably dis- 
tinguiihed our Author from the common dass of 
Writers, However, this may at least serve as a plea 

1 As before, p. jcniL • VoL I. p. 5. 

* At before, p. xz. In tome copiet of 'Ptyche' another 
title-ptge it petted over the fint, without motto, or publiiher*! 
name, containing the date z65e, and the name of Fraacit 
Beaumont, without any addition, at authoi^a trantparent booh* 
lellef^t device. Some copiet are alto dated s^i. Retrotpectiv^ 
Review, vol xl s.m. 



46 



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MEMORIAL'INTRODUCTION. 



for some good-natued mdalgence to the inoonect* 
nesses and negligences which frequently occur in it. If 
he would have abated somewhat of his vtvUa vis 
ammi, and suffered his poetical fire to cool a little ; 
the criticks would have had less room to exerdse their 
snarling talents, and we should have found his dis- 
position more exact, his sentiments juster, and his 
numbers more polished than they now appear. ' ^ 

Mr. Pigot summarises all this from Horace 
(Ars Poetica, 11. 291-5) : — 

•Vos, O 
Pompilius sanguis, carmen reprehendite, quod non 
Multa dies et multa litura coercuit, atque 
Praesectum decies non castigavit ad unquem.*' 

We might have conceded Gee's depreca- 
tory plea and pleading if there had been any 
urgency of reason for the hasty publication 
of ' Psyche,' as thus dashed off. But in the 
circumstances we must refuse. The revised 
'Psyche' of 1702 left scarcely a solitary 
stanza unrevised. This revision ought to 
have preceded not succeeded publication. 
Neither may we agree with him that the 
remedy for ' incorrectnesses and negligences' 
had been an abating of his vivida vis ammi. 
All the portions of * Psyche' bom of his vivid 
and unique imagination and fancy, were left 
— ^rightly left — untouched. Everything of 
permanent and creative or really poetical 
came to him without elaboration or cool 
after-work. Where the Upub labor et mora 
were needed, was in the wording and struc- 
ture and rhythm and rhyme. The years 
later devoted thereto would have been reward- 
ingly given prior to the publication. Else- 
where (II. Critical) I give proof — after every 
deduction — of the splendid things that are 
to be found in * Psyche.' The motif to the 
poem was a noble one — as he himself 
avouches: — *I endeavour to represent a 
Soul led by Divine Grace and her Guardian 
Angel (in fervent devotion) through the 
difficult temptations and assaults, of Lust, 
of Pride, of Heresy, of Persecution, and of 
spiritual Dereliction, to a holy and happy 



^ As before, pw xx. 



* As before, p. i6a 



departure from temporal life to heavenly 
felicity.'^ 

Again: — 

' My Desire is, that this Book may prompt better 
Wits to believe, that a Diviiu Thmm is as capable 
and happy a Sabject of Poetical Ornament, as any 
Pagan or Humane Device whatsoever. Which, if I 
can obtain, and (unto the Bargain) Charm my Readers 
into any true degree of Devotion, I shall be bold to 
hope that I have partly reached my proposed jnori, 
and not continued nearly Idle.'* 

Thus to do good, not for &me, was 'Psyche' 
composed and given to the world. He pas- 
sionately puts it so in ' Psyche' itself: — 

* Defiance other Helicons I O may 
These precious Founts my Vow and H§art refine t 
My task, dear Lovb» art Thou : if ever Bay 
Court my poor Must^ I '11 hang it on thy skritu. 
My Soul untun'd» unstrung, doth wait on Thee 
To teach her how to sing thy Mystery.' 

C. 1. St. 4. 
and again : — 

' Thy subject Thou commend'st, my subject me.' 

C. IV. SL 3. 

It is noteworthy that twice over in his 
Epistle to the Reader, our Poet emphasises 
his wish to avoid 'idleness.' It is all the 
more to his praise that this being a constitu- 
tional infirmity he so wonderfully overcame 
it This he gratefully owns in * Psyche ': — 

' ... So have I, cheer'd up with Hopes at last 
To double Thee, endur'd a tedious Sea ; 
Through publick foaming Tempests I have past ; 
Through flattering Calms of private Suavity ; 
Through interrupting Companies' thick Press ; 
And through the Lake of mine own Laziness.' 
C. xxnr. St 9. 

Besides his vast Poem, he wrote at Had- 
leigh a ' Commentary on the Book of Eccle- 
siastes,' and large critical notes upon 'The 
Pentateuch.'* 

In 'Psyche* there are several autobiogra- 
phic snatches that, as they mainly go back 
on the years thus far recounted, may be fitly 
introduced at this point, especially as none 
of his former Biographers seem to have 
observed them, e,g,, 



1 Vol. 1. p. 5. 



* Itul 



* G«e, as before, p. xxvi. 



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• But O my Heart, why art thou stealing thus 
From thine own woes, thy Neighbours to deplore? 
Time was, when (whilst thme unfledge[d] wickedness 
Flew not in Heav'n's long-patient face, nor tore 
This judgment down,) I once a week, at least 
Could at this Board of wonders be a goesL 

With solid joy then could I turn mine eye 
Back on the year, which happily had run : 
Then could I count what Gains I reaped by 
My constant trading in Devotion ; 
Rcjoycing in my satisfied mind 
That every Sunday I in heav'n had din'd. 

But now the flaming Coursers of the Sun 
Are drawing on the fourteenth month, since I 
Was sharer in the Celebration 
Of this sweet Ufe-mUv^ning Mystery : 
Which yet I then was &in to steal ; and so 
A thief that day to Paradise did go.* 

C. XII. St. 233-325. 
Again: — 
' He who both Leisure and Desire can find 
To sequester IwsperHnences^ that 
"Wis proper Busness he may only mind 
And raise by pious Thrift his best Estate, 
That he a Bank of endless Wealth may have 
When poor he go's and naked to his grave : 

He He's the Man, on whom the Citie's Joys 
And proud Excess ; the Countrie's hearty Sport ; 
The gallant Licence, and the glittering Toys, 
>^th all the glorious Nothings of the Court. 

As on their Conqueror look ; Since sober He 

Can of plain Solitude inamored be. 

For here his Soul more Company can meet 
.\nd of more high and worthy Quality, 
Than in the Theater's most thronging Sweat, 
Where Spectacles profess to court the Eye ; 
Such Preasses justle out all Heav'n, but He 
Reads it at large in this Vacuity.* 

C. xxm. St. 11-13. 
Further;— 
' No Humor of the Times, no Garts or Fashions, 
Can here seduce his Care ; no boistrous News 
Of publick Woes, or fatal Alterations, 
His Harbour's Halcyon Quiet can abuse. 
No storms can rage but in the q;^ Seas ; 
H'apritfate Bay the Cloyster is of Ease.' 

C. XXIII. st 18. 

Extremely characteristic — ^unhappily — of 
the self-contained serenely-individual nature 
of Beaumont are these (to me) shockingly 

insouciant avowals : — 

' no boiBtrons Nintu 
Of publick Woes, or fiital Alterations, 
His Harbonr's Halcyon Quiet can abuse; 
No stonns can rage bat in the open Seas; 
His private Bay the Cloyster is of Ease. ' 



' Ease' — while his country was in the mortal 
throes of Revolution 1 

Certain dates reveal that the 'Ejected 
Fellow' and recluse of Hadleigh contrived 
even in the crisis of the Civil War to secure 
for himself 'livings' in the Church. He 
appears to have held from 1643 the ' Rectory 
of Kelshall, Herts/ as non-resident Walker 
in his ' Sufferings/ queries, but does not (for 
a wonder) enrol him among the 'Ejected' 
there.^ In 1646 he similarly held the 'Living 
of Elm, with Emneth' in Cambridgeshire — 
which was non-resident and sinecure.^ In the 
same year he was ' appointed' to a ' Canonry 
of Ely/' In 1650 he became 'domestic 
chaplain' to Bishop Wren of Ely> After- 
wards, other ' livings' were added. Through- 
out, he had no scruples in being a Pluralist 
and Sinecurist Local inquiries in his suc- 
cessive 'presentations,' in no case have 
brought me evidence of residence. So that 
now and onward to the close, he appears to 
have drawn the revenues and deputed to 
starveling curates the duties, less their madt- 
cum of allowance — a holy practice not wholly 
extinct among your 'dignified clergy.'* I 
cannot think that Dr. Joseph Beaumont 

1 ' Sufferings/ Pt ii. pp. 159-3, quoting Sir Henry Chauncy't 
Antiq. of Hertf., p. 85. 

' Sec onward. > Gee, as before, p. zjcviiL * Ibid. 

Thus of Kelsfaall the present Rector (Rev. J. H. Damisay) 
writes me, that he only finds from Qutterbuck's History of 
Hertfordshire (Vol. iiL p. 534X that Beaumont was Rector of 
Kelshall, X3th Jan. 1643, in saccesuon to James Swinehoe. Of 
Elm, the present Rector (Rer. Edward Swann, M. A.) informs 
me :— ' There u no mention of Beaumont la any Register here ; 
nor is it likely there would be, for Joseph Beaumont, M. A , Master 
of St Petez's College, was ttctor of Elm cum Emnedi about 
that time. The rectory was then, and is now a sinecure, 
and has been absorbed by the Ecclesiastical Commissionezs. 
IK^lliam Allanson was vicar at that time. Joseph Beaumont 
was succeeded in 1646 at Michaelmas by Thomas Donr pre. 
sented by PkrliantenL Moreover, in the Journals of the House 
of Commons, it appears that Beaumont's incumbency was ignored 
altogether; for Robert Dorr, A M. , who is in the list from which 
I an quoting, was instituted rector in 1641, and at his death the 
Lords and Conmoos, to the end that the parish may be supplied 
with a learned, godly, and orthodox divine, have ordered and 
appointed Thomas Dorr, AM., to be ministrr there. See 
Watson's History of Wisbech. It was a frequent practice of the 
Bishops of Ely from 1455 to 1645 to appoint their chancellor, or 
soma head of a house at Cambridge, to the rectory of Elm cum 
Emoeth.' See more in the sequel. Masterof Peterhouaetome. 



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'suffered' very much during those trying 
years. He denounces 'Tepidness' usurping 
•Fervor's name' (C. xxi. st 5). He was of 
the 'Tepid' school, save when roused to 
calumniate the Puritans and their godly 
though lowly followers — ^and passed innocu- 
ously through what would have agitated and 
shaken more sensitive and less outwardly- 
favoured spirits. He proceeded to the degree 
of S. T. P. on August 18, 1660. 

Brought into close relations to Bishop 
Matthew Wren as his * domestic chaplain/ 
he continued in this office ' in the full pos- 
session of his esteem and confidence about 
three years.' Thereupon a central thing in his 
life was brought about. I must let garrulous 
John Gee tell it in his leisurely fashion : — 

*[Then] his Lordship, as the most conyindng 
testimony of his benevolence and affectionate regard 
for him, made a proposal to him, which at once filled 
him with inexpressible delight and astonishment. 
The Bishop had married the widow of Mr. Brown- 
rigg, an eminent Merchant at Ipswich in Suffolk 
[I intercalate, probably of Bishop Brownrigg's family], 
who left an onJy daughter, and to her the inheritance 
of a considerable estate, with the manour of Tatings- 
ton in the same county. His Lordship, as a fisithful 
guardian to the young lady, had not only instructed 
her in the several modes of speaking and acting which 
are founded in nature, and which form that grace and 
decency of behaviour, which will ever call for, and 
justly demand respect ; but he had touched her mind 
with a strong sense of moral and religious duties, and 
an early appretiation of those who were possessed of 
them in a distinguished degree. Mr. Boiumont, by 
his constant residence in the family, and daily con- 
versation with the lady, was not insensible of her 
agreeable qualities, nor of the good opinion she had 
of his, but, as he enjoyed only the name of prefer- 
ments in the Church, and could promise himself no 
great share of his father's impaired fortunes, he had 
never flattered himself with the most distant hope of 
such a wife, with so lair an estate. It may be easily 
conceived then how greatly and agreeably he was 
surprised, when she was proposed to him, by the 
person who, next to herself, had the best right to 
dispose of her. They were married at Ely House in 
the year 1650, and he soon after returned with her 
to Tatingston Place, where they enjoyed the mntual 
pleasures of a social life, and he spent the succeeding 
ten years till the Restoration, on such an application 



to the duties of his profession as the then conditi<m 
of the times would allow of, and in the constant 
exercise of every virtue becoming a good man and a 
sincere Christian.' ' 

Delicious is the old-fashioned simplicity 
alike of the story and its teller, — ^who had 
evidently not one glimmering of the humour 
of the situation, as of the exquisite obe- 
dience of the Chaplain. As it happened, 
this marriage proved a benediction to both. 
The 'fair estate' was as nothing to the 'fair 
soul' of the lady herself; while we shall dis- 
cover immediately, she charmed him into 
a tenderness and wistfulness of affection 
that present the erewhile hard and scarcely 
loveable book-worm in a beautiful, pathetic, 
and almost holy aspect 

Everything goes to show that his married 
years were of the sunniest and most tranquil 
in his long life. Thus the Poems in the 
volume of 1749 were selections from 'two 
large manuscript books fairly transcribed by 
the Author's own hand ... the latter of 
these books [being] entitled Cathenurina^ 
and the verses in it [apparently] designed as 
morning preparatory exercises for the duties 
of the ensuing day.' Gee further infonns 
us that ' this method which was b^gun May 
the 17th, 1652, was pursued without one 
day's interruption to September the 3d of 
the same year.' So that his minor poems 
belong to his residence at Tatingston Place. 
It is most satisfying, accordingly, to find 
among these minor poems such winsome 
things as 'Love's Eye,' 'The Times,' and 
above all, ' Home.' The last it will do us 
good to read meditatively : — 

Home, 

' Home 's Home, altho' it reached be 
Thro' Wet and Dirt and Night ; tho' heaitily 
I weloom'd was, yet something still, 
Methinks, was wanting to fulfil 
Content's odd Appetite : no cheer, 
Say I, so good as that which meets me here. 

Here, here at Home : Not that my Board 
I find with quainter, richer Dainties stor'd ; 

1 G«e, as before, p. x 



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No, my high Welcome all in this 
Cheap simple Word presented is, 
My Home; a Word so dearly sweet. 
That all Variety in it I meeL 

When I'm abroad, my Joys are so, 
And therefore they to me seem Strangers too : 

I may salute them lovingly, 

But must not too familiar be ; 

Some ceremonious Points there are 
Which me from Pleasure's careless Froedom bar. 

There must my Mirth's Tunes taken be 
Not by mine own, but by my Convive's Key : 

My Words and Smiles must temporize. 

And I myself a Sacrifice 

Must on that Humour's Altar yield. 
Which there the Company shall please to build. 

If there on every Dish I ust, 
'Tis not myself, but some Disease I feast ; 
My Fdend suspects if I forbear. 
That I n^lect him and his Cheer : 
Nor is it easy to prevent 
Or mine own Mischief, or his Discontent 

But Home, sweet Home, releaseth me 
From anxious Joys, into the Liberty 

Of unsollidtous Delight ; 

Which whosoever mean and slight 

By being absolutely free 
Enthrones me in Contentment's Monarchy.' 

Vol. II. pp. 347-8. 



Again: — 



Howu, 



' What is House and what is Home, 
Where with Freedom thou hast room, 
And may'st to all Tyrants say, 
This you cannot take away? 
Tis no thing with Doors and Walls, 
Which at every Earthquake &lls ; 
No €ur Towers, whose Princely &shion 
Is but Phmder's invitation ; 
No stout Marble Structure, where 
Walls Eternity do dare ; 
No Brass Gates, no Bars of Sted, 
Tho' Time's Teeth they scorn to fed : 
Brass is not so bold as Pride, 
If on Power's Wings it ride ; 
Marble 's not so hard as Spite 
Arm'd with lawless Strength and Might. 
Right and just Possession, be 
Potent Names, when Laws stand free : 
But if once that Rampart fall. 
Stoutest Thieves inherit all : 
To be rich and weak 's a sure 
And sufficient Forfeiture. 

Seek no more abroad, say I, 
House and Home, but turn thine Eye 



Inward, and observe thy Breast ; 
There alone dwells solid Rest. 
That 's a dose immured Tower 
Which can mock all hostile Power. 
To thyself a Tenant be. 
And inhabit safe and free. 
Say not that this House is small. 
Girt up in a narrow Wall : 
In a cleanly sober Mind 
Heav'n itself full Room doth find. 
Tb' Infinite Cbeator can 
Dwdl in it ; and may not Man ? 
Here content make thy abode 
With thyself and with thy God. 
Here in this sweet privacy 
May'st thou with tbysdf agree. 
And keep House in peace, tho' all 
Th' Universe's Fabrick faU. 
No Disaster can distress thee. 
Nor no Fury dispossess thee : 
Let all War and Plunder come. 
Still may'st thou dwell safe at Home. 

Home is every where to thee, 
Who can'st thine own Dwelling be ; 
Yea, tho' ruthless Death assail thee. 
Still thy Lodging will not fjeul thee : 
Still thy Soul's thine own ; and she 
To an House remov'd shall be ; 
An eternal House above, 
Wall'd, and roofd, and pav'd with Love. 
There shall these Mud-walls of thine 
Gallantly repair'd out-shine 
Mortal Stars; No Stars shall be 
In that Heav'n but such as Thee.' 

Vol. II. pp. 338, 339. 

Similarly, 'Wishes' and < Content' and 
'Reasonable Melancholy' are fine as poetry, 
and finer as self-portraitures. 

With a patron-fiiend so astute and strong, 
as well as appreciative, as Bishop Wren — 
far ahead the most intellectual, if also the 
most unscrupulous of the Laudian school — 
' The Restoration' of 1660 inevitably brought 
further prosperity. 

* Soon after the King's happy return/ says Gee, *he 
not only took the legal and quiet possession of the 
benefices to which he had been some years before pre- 
sented, but was admitted into the first list of his 
Majesty's Chaplains.* ^ 

By the former — seeing that except at Elm 
there is no evidence that he had been 

> Gee, as before, iqp. xxxi-ii. 



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MEMORIAI^INTRODUCTION. 



* deprived * of his * livings ' — ^he continued his 
pluralities and sinecures, tranquilly add- 
ing and adding to them as the years wore 
on. His first Biographer must again be my 
spokesman : — 

' As he w«8 now drawn from his books and retire- 
ment at Tatingston to an attendance upon a gay and 
polite Court, he took the honorable and easy method 
which is in eveiy man's own power, by probity, good 
nature, and a most candid soul, to recommend himself 
to the esteem of the greatest, as well as the most in- 
genious men of that age. It is allowed by the bitterest 
enemies to the memory of Charles the Second, that he 
was a Prince of a superiour genius, delicate taste, and 
very capable of distinguishing mankind ; and therefore 
it ought to be considered as a strong proof of our 
Author's extraordinary merit, that he was thought 
worthy of his Majesty's particular notice, and fre- 
quently admitted to a private conversation with him. 
But, whether it is to be imputed to the detestable 
politicks which, after his grand&ther Henry the Great 
of France, were too easily and successfully insinuated 
into that Prince, of neglecting his friends and 
caressing his enemies ; or to his own disinterestedness 
and singular modesty in declining soUicitations, he 
never received any other advantage from the Royal 
Favour, then a mandamus to the Univeisity to create 
him Doctor in Divinity in the same year i66a* ^ 

What innocence have we here concerning 
' our most religious King ' t Little did the 
Biographer weigh how far his premiss would 
lead him. Was not Richard Baxter also 
appointed one of His Majesty's Chaplains ? 
The whole thing was incarnate hypocrisy. 
Charles ii. never would for a moment have 
taken credit for valuing anything any one of 
his chaplains ever did or could say to him. 

That Beaumont had his gleams of insight 
into the actualities of character of the king 
(Charles i.) and consequent alarm lest his 
ideal should fail him, might be shown drasti- 
cally. I gleam a few bits that from him are 
most suggestive. First of all in C. ix. st 7, 
we read : — 

' Whilst pompoms Princes build their royal Pride 
On tk* arm' d Protection of their numerous Guard; 
Their simplest vilest Slaves are dignifi'd 
With Heav'n's illustrious Host, to watch and ward 

^ Gee, as before, p. xxjciL 



Their several Chaiges ; who though scorned Things 
Below, are yet above design'd for Kings.' 

This is however neutralised by the (uncon- 
scious) blasphemy of the question elsewhere, 
in placing Judas' blood-money over-against 
the supposed 'price 'paid for the supposed 
betrayal of Charles (C. xi. st 164) :— 



' They little think their Heirs in time to < 
Will scorn this sneaking Copy, and find reason 
With lusty generousness to make their Sum 
Suit with the brave Magnificence of Treason ; 
When for a King (how much less precious ?) they 
Two hundred thousand Pounds wiU freely pay.' 

But so much a creature of moods was he, 
that again we are stirred and startled as by 
a trumpet with these noble words (C. v. st 
114):— 

' When did a Realm of slaves unto their Prince 

The trusty sweetness of Love's homage pay ? 

When did a Tyrant with safe confidence 

Rdy upon his Vasials ? None but they 
Can fairly Rule, and Cairly Ruled be. 
Whom freedom's bonds ty up in Monarchy.' 

Once more: Here was a yearning after 
freedom for Greece that should have kindled 
Byron had he chanced upon it (C. xvii. st 

58):- 

' Had but the thousand part of those dear veins 

Adventur'd to be broach'd in Pakstine, 

T had wash'd out both our Cowardixe's stains. 

And black Mahometism: yea Greece had been 
Redeemed also, and no longer lain 
A groaning slave under a pagan chain.' 

But these were evanescent stirrings of his 
better nature. His most purged and concen- 
trated passion are indulged in hate of free 
Parliaments and in scorn of however godly 
Nonconformity, as witness (C. xv. st. 11) : — 

' Though pitched in Power's saddle far they ride, 
And kick and trample all things in their way ; 
The insolent Vulgar find at length their Pride 
Check'd by a sudden Fall ; no Tigres may 
For ever rage ; nor can the Tyranny 
Of blachest Parliaments immortal be. ' 

Again — ^he even dares to travesty the 
words of our Lord in order to smite the 
lowly 'common people' driven from their 



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XXIU 



parish churches and enforced to be content 

with humblest roof in obscurest lane or 

slum: — 

' No ConTenticle's sneaking Qoisters hid 
Those Doctrines which against blind Darkness fought. ' 

(C. XUL St 33). 

Early in 1661 he went at the request of 
the Bishop to reside in his Canonry at Ely 
— ^taking chaige at same time of the parish 
of Trinity while there.^ Unfortunately * the 
damp and foggy air of the fens' proved 
deadly to the delicate constitution of his 
wife, which was unable to ' support such a 
load of vapours.' She died on May 31st, 
1662. They had a considerable family ; but 
only one — Dr. Charles Beaumont, editor of 
' Psyche ' of 1702 — appears to have reached 
adolescence. There can be no question 
that the death of his wife struck to the very 
heart of Dr. Beaumont I have now to take 
out of ' Psyche ' what is practically an Elegy 
or lament jfor his wife, than which, taken all 
in all, I know of nothing of the kind more 
beautiful, more exquisitely touched, more 
admirable in substance and workmanship, in 
thought and emotion. Thus separated as a 
distinct elegiac poem, I do not think it ought 
to be regarded as exaggeration when I pro- 
nounce it ample ground for seeking admission 
for its Author among the genuine Makers 
and Singers of England. I do not hesitate 
a moment in thus reproducing it here in full ; 
for I am anxious to have it studied per se, 
Biographically and poetically it is of consum- 
mate interest. I cannot understand how all 
his Biographers should have overlooked so 
autobiographic and priceless a memoriaL 
I venture to inscribe it ' Elegy for a beloved 
wife' (C XVIII. St. 1-56) : — 

No more did wretched I ; who lately thought 
My self pitch'd safe on Happintu^s tkrom: 
Ah slippery Tkrom f how sadly hast thou Uught 
My credulotis Joys no more to build upon 
A mortal bottom^ nor my solace trust 
On what so soon falls into mouldring Dust, 

1 Piffoc, at before, p^ 163. 



where shall I my just Complaint begin, 
Which must no Ending know I How am I lost 
In Sorrow* s M€uei fain would my mourning Pen 
Vie with mine Eyes, and drop my Grief as fast : 

Fain would my Must^ to complement my Smart. 
Indite ibt/uneral Elegy of my Heart 

But by the Ruins of my high Delight 
Such vast Confusion overwhelms my Mind, 
That it can prompt me nothing now to write 
But meer Perplexity. Thy pardon, kind 

Reader, thy pardon then : since 'tis not I 

Abuse thy patience, but Necessity. 

1 am not I ; O no, my / is gone. 

That procious Stl/yrbo mighty value gave 
To worthless Me. What 'tis to be UMdoiu 
None more profoundly knows than I, who live 
Tom and in sunder deft, whilst lost I see 
That /To^ which was more than the Whole to me. 

Sweet Soul how goodly was the Temple which 
Heaven pleas'd to make thy earthly Habitation 1 
Built all of graceful Delicacy, rich 
In Symmetry ; and of a dangerous fashion 
For youthful eyes, had not the Saint within 
Govem'd the Charms of her inamoring Shrine. 

How happily compendious didst Thou make 
My study when I was the Lines to draw 
Of genuine Beauty I never put to take 
Long joumies vms my fiemcy ; still I saw 
At home my Copy, and I knew 'twould be 
But Beaut/ s wrong further to seek than Tkee, 

Full little knew the World (for I as yet 
In studied silence hugg'd my secret Bliss,) 
How faxSi was my Muse's task, when set 
Virtue's and Grace's features to express I 
For whilst accomplished Thou wert in my sight 
I nothing had to do, but LooA and Write. 

How sadly parted are those words ; since I 
Must now be IVritiug, but no more can Look / 
Yet in my Heart thy precious Memory 
So deep is graved, that fh>m this £uthful Book 

Truly transcrib'd, thy Character shall shine ; 

Nor shall thy Death devour what was divine. 

Hear then, O all soft-hearted Turtles, hear 
What you alone profoundly wiU resent : 
A Bird of your pure feather 'tis, whom here 
Her desolate Mate remaineth to lament, 
Whilst She is flown to meet her dearer Love, 
And sing among the winged Quire above. 

Twelve times the glorious Sovereign of Day 
Had made his progress, and in every Inn 
Whose golden Signs through all his radiant way 
So high are hung, as often lodged been ; 
Since in the sacred Knot this noble She 
Deign'd to be ty'd to (then how happy) me. 



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Ty'd, ty'd we were so intimately, that 
We strait were sweetly lost in one another. 
Thus when two Notes in Musick's wedlock knit 
They in one Concord blended are together : 
For nothing now our life but musKk was, 
Her Soul the Tk«ble made, and mine* the Base. 

How at the needless Question would she smile 

When ask'd. what she desir'd or counted fit? 

Still bidding me examine mine own will. 

And read the surest answer ready writ. 
So center'd was her heart in mine, that She 
Would own no wish if first not wish'd by Me. 

DiHgkt was no such thing to her ; if I 
Relish'd it not : the Palate of her Pleasure 
CarefiiUy watch'd what mine could taste, and by 
That standard her content resolv'd to measure. 
By this rare art of sweetness did she prove 
That though she joy'd, ytXaUker Joy was Low, 

So was her Grief : for wrong'd her self she held 
If I were sad alone ; her share, alas, 
And more than so, in all my Sorrow's field 
She duly reap'd : and here alone she was 
Unjust to me. Ah dear injustice, which 
Mak'st me complain That I was k>v'd too much i 

Yet tenderest she. was no less stiff and stout 

In Virtue's service : from our nuptial Bed 

A lovely flower no sooner peeped out, 

But it into the grave withdrew its head. 
And let it go ; the Method 's just, cry'd She, 
MyJSrstfruits are for Htav'n and not for Me. 

A second sprouted then ; who for a while 

Flatter'd our Joys ; but withering in his bud. 

Did only them the deeplyer beguile. 

When lo, my valiant Dmr discretely shed 
Such moderate Tears as testify'd that she 
Would Mother here and yet not Womeui. be. 

To loose the fruit, said she, shall not dismay 
My heart, so long as it enjoys the Tru : 
I am content the streams should slip away, 
Since still the Spring, the SprtHg, remains with me ; 

Whilst I th' Original at large possess. 

Of two small Copies little is the loss. 

What wonder now that Heaifn was pleased this 
Twice-tryed Patience doubly to requite ; 
And for one Pair it snatch'd away, to bliss 
Her afterward with two, on whom she might 
Transcribe her virtuous self, and make them be 
Her Soul's as well 's her Body's Progeny. 

And to this weteome task betimes she fell, 
Moulding the soft and tender Wax : on which 
Of Discipline she clapt the early seal. 
That it not Art might seem, but Nature : such 
Was her Indulgencie's sagacity 
That on ihit future stiU she kept her Eye. 



Her tender Tivigs, whilst fitted any way 
To bend, she wisely bended to the best ; 
And this was Upward, that thus thriving They 
Might grow to Heav'n. How oft has she profest 
'Twas not th' ambition of her prime endeavour 
To have them live, but have them live far ever. 

Nor could her Servants scape her pious care. 
Whom she more truly serv'd than they did Her, 
Watching to keep them in religious fear 
And in the bounds of sober Order ; for 

Unless their Gm/ they learn to serve, said she. 

How can they &ithful service do to me? 

But o'r her self her watch was most severe. 
Jealous of nothing more than of her heart. 
Her richest Virtues, which admired were 
By others' eyes, her own suspected : Art, 

Art still she fear'd, and right profoundly wise 

Judg'd artificial Virtue real Vice. 

And this such deep and bitter quarrels bred 
Between her Soul and Her, that often 1 
Ran in to part the fray, and help her read 
The Error of her Zeal : and though she by 
Mine eyes resolved were to see, yet ne'r 
So lothly kept She that resolve as here. 

For in her self meek She so much below 
Her self was sunk, that all her high Deserts 
From her own prospect vanished ; and though 
Those Graces which imbellish'd others' hearts 
Were to her reverent observation known. 
Her own were not, because they were her own. 

To Heav'nward open'd She her morning eyes. 
And darted her Devotion's preface thither : 
Before she rose, thus did she duly rise ; 
And then gat up, and call'd her thoughts together. 

Her Matin's sacrifice to kindle ; for 

AU Offrings but by fire did she abhor. 

Then for her morning's Draught, unto the spring 

Of life and bliss, the Book of books, she flew ; 

Which her with various Nectar furnishing. 

Sometimes she quaifd the Old, sometimes the New : 
And knew both Tastes so fully, that 'twas clear 
The New at length was not the New to her. 

AU David fairly she transcribed on 

The tables of her faithful Memory ; 

There likewise wrote she Soul-inamoring John; 

Nor e'r was more exact Orthography. 

That from Love's Laws her Soul might never start, 

She thus had Piety it self by heart. 

But that her time might in the Chanel run 

Of pure Devotion, she for every day 

Cut out her holy work, by which alone 

She knew how Weeks both came and went away. 

Right Christian Account, which thus could make 

Her dearest Jesus be her Almanack. 



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MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION, 



For by the Wonders €f His Love 6HA %\i% 
Distinguish all the Week : She first descended 
With Him from Heav'n, and His Humility 
TkBced to Bethlehem ; where she attended 
His simple Cratch, and learn 'd those Pomps to scorn 
In which true Glory's Prince would not be bom. 

The next Day led her to that Desert where 
Orapling with Hunger and with Satan, she 
Beheld her Lord, The Third invited her 
To meditate His scorn and Injury 

When by His Scholar at a sordid price 

Sold and betray'd to bloody Enemies. 

Her thoughts were highly entertained by 

The fourth at that dear Board of purest Bliss, 

Which Jesus fumish'd with the Mystery 

Of His own Blood's and Bodie's Sacrifice. 
Deep in her heart, upon the fifth she strove 
To print the sacred Wounds and Death of Love, 

The Sixth, as duly found her at His Grave 
Embalming Him with sweet Devotion's spice. 
But on the Seventh. His Resurrection gave 
Her cheerlyest Contemplation leave to rise ; 

Nor could the Clouds convey Him from its view, 

For after His Ascension too she flew. 

And by this bless'd hebdomadaiy Round 
(The Heav'nly Orb which she on Earth contriv'd) 
Weaned from our Worldly motions, she found 
Her drded self In solid Rest, and liv'd 
Above that Cheat which makes fond Mortals prise 
For true Content, heart-vexing Vanities. 

Her Soul resolv'd to keep iu home within. 
And not dwell fluttering in her outward Tire : 
Her Rule was, what was fit, not, what was fine ; 
Not to be sold, but doth'd, was her desire. 
Miscall it not ; it is, said she to me 
No 5affV, unless it suits with my Degree. 

Preposterousness she counted it, to wear 
Her purse upon her back : yet with no less 
Abhorrence loc^'d she on that sordid Care 
Which blush'd not to appear in open Dress. 
Right prudently she cut her way between. 
Approving nothing Golden, but the mean. 

She ne'r took post to keep an equal pace 
Still with the newest Modes, which swiftly run : 
She never vras perplex'd to hear her Lace 
Accus'd for six months old, when first put on : 

She laid no watchful Leigers, costly-vain 

InteUigenoe with Cashions to maintain. 

On a Pin's point she ne'r held consultation. 

Nor at her Glass's strict tribunal brought 

Each Pleit to scrupulous examination : 

Asham'd she was that Titan's coach about 
Half Heav'n should sooner wheel, than she could pass 
Through all the petty stages of her Dress. 

46 



No gadding Itch e'r spurr'd her to delight 

In needless Sallies ; none but civil care 

Of friendly correspondence could invite 

Her out of doors ; unless she pointed were 
By Visitations from Heav'n's hand, where she 
Might make her own in tender sympathy. 

Ahroad, she counted but her Prison : Home, 

Home was the region of her Liberty. 

Abroad Diversion throng'd, and left no room 

For Zeal's set task, and virtue's bus'ness free : 
Home was her less incumbred Scene, though there 
Angels and God she knew Spectators were. 

Yet this Retirement's cloud ne'r overcast 
Those beams of leggiadrous Courtesy 
Which smil'd in her Deportment ; and exprest 
Full confutation of their Calumny, 

Who lumpish, sullen, and the source of all 

Affected Soureness, strict Devotion call. 

Nor was this sweetness partial, and design' d 

In complemental Gracefulness to vy ; 

But full as focil to the plainest Hind 

As to the courtlyest Gallant : Poverty 
She ne'r could count a reason of neglect. 
Who did so oft on Bethlehem's Cratch reflect. 

This made her trade with such sincere delight 
In frequent Alms : her self she satisfy'd 
When she the Needy fill'd ; and that she might 
As ready be as was their want, she ty'd 

Her self to spare a weekly sum, and be 

Provided of a Banh of Charity, 

Nor did her sympathetick Soul with less 

Tenderness yearn the publick Woes to see. 

When bolster'd up with long-abus'd Success 

Sedition, Rapin, Murder, Perjury, 
Schism, Heresy, Rebellion, Usurpation 
Reign'd on the stage of this distracted Nation. 

But when the monstrous Tempest tam'd she saw 
To Peace's Calm ; when glorious Charles ascended 
His rightful throne, restoring both the Law 
Of Earth and Heav'n ; when Truth no more was branded 

For Superstition ; when the Church had to 

The Temple, liberty again to go : 

Such was her Joy, as if the total Bliss 

Had been her own : for by the common Good, 

On her Particular she set the price ; 

And not contented with the vulgar Mode, 
Besides what flaming at her gate she had. 
True Triumph's Bonfire in her heart she made. 

Yet sadly cool'd that Fervor was, when she 
Observ'd how those who deeplyest were ingaged 
To flie the Crimes whose importunity 
Had lately Vengeance rous'd, and Heav'n enraged. 

Back to their Vomit tum'd, as if their Peace 

Had only come to let them Sin at ease. 



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XXVI 



MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION. 



How did she sigh I to see fentastick Pride, 

Restless Ambition, studied Luxury, 

All in a fresh carreer eagerly ride ; 

Forgetting quite that injur'd Lenity 
To Fury boils ; that Justice, when constxain'd, 
New Covenants and new PrtsHUrt can find. 

Oft did she chew this heavy Meditation, 
Crying. Are these the thanks and praise we pay 
To Him who from the Jaws of Desolation 
Snatch'd us 1 did He the Rebels' powers destroy 
To make free room for our Contempt to swell 
And shamelessly against Himself rebel I ^ 

This wean'd her weary heart from things below, 
And kindled it with strong desire to gain 
Her Hopes' high Aim. Life could no longer now 
Flatter her love, or make her prayers refrain 
From begging (yet with humble resignation) 
To be dismissed from her mortal station. 

Long in this earnest fervour did she fry, 
Until a Fever's mighty flame begun 
To cool it, and incourage her with high 
Expectance that she had not far to run 

Before her tedious Race would ended be 

In never-ending Rest's felicity. 

O bow she welcomed her courteous Fain» 
And languished with most serene Content 1 
No Paroxysms oould make her once complain. 
Nor suffer'd she her Patience to be spent 
Before her Life ; contriving thus to yield 
To her disease, and yet not loose the fidd. 

This trying ftimaoe wasted day by day 
(What she her self had always counted Dross,) 
Her mortal Mansion, which so ruin'd lay 
That of the goodly fabrick nothing was 
Remaining now but skin and bone ; refin'd 
Together were her Body and her Mind. 

At length the final hour (sad hour to me I) 

Releas'd the longing Soul: no Ejulation 

Tolled her knell ; no dying Agony 

Frown'd in her death ; but in that lamb-like fashion 
In which she liv'd (O righteous Htav'n, said I 
AVho dos'd her dear eyes,) she had leave to die. 

She dy'd ; but to that Life's possession flew 
In hopes of which alone before she lived. 
Alas, I only perish'd, who in shew 
Was left aUve ; and she who dy'd, survived. 

None, none this woful Riddle feels but I ; 

Her's was the Death, but mine the Tragedy. 

O ever-predous Soul, yet shall that flight 
Of thine, not snatch thee from thy wonted Nest ; 
Here shalt thou dwell, here shalt thou live in spight 
Of any death, here in this faithful Breast : 

Unworthy 'tis, I know, by being mine ; 

Yet nothing less, since long it has been thine. 



Accept thy dearer Pourtraitnre, which I 

Have on my other Psyche fixed here ; 

Since her ideal Beauties signify 

The truth of thine : as for her spots, they are 
Thy useful foil, and shall inservient be 
But to inhanoe and more illustrate Thee. 

The subject of this Elegy was buried 
behind the altar in the cathedral church at 
Ely, under < a decent monument ' with the 
following epitaph : — 

' Quod mori potoit 

Lectissimse, DesideratissimaBque 

Conjugis 

Elizabethae Bellomontans 

Sub Hoc Marmore condidit 

Moestissimus Maritus 

J. B. 

Hujus Ecdesise Canonical 

Mail 31. Ail Dom. 

166a.' 1 

While Mrs. Beaumont was in her last 
illness, Bishop Wren had 'appointed' our 
Worthy to the Mastership of Jesus College, 
on the resignation of Pearson, the illustrious 
author of the Exposition of the Creed ; and 
he had indulged a fond hope that the change 
of air would have revived her drooping 
health. She was too feeble, however, to be 
removed; and it was not imtil after her 
death and funeral that he was able again to 
take up his residence at Cambridge, ?rith 
'his little family' of six young children.' 
Jesus College bore the scars of its military 
occupation during the Civil War. The new 
Master immediately set about the restoration 
of the 'dilapidated' chapel 'at his own 
proper and private expense, without suffering 
it to be an extraordinary burthen to the other 
members of the society.' Any outward 
religious act of this type was congenial 
with Beaumont's sentiments and ritual-loving 
temperament. I by no means think that 
there were not corresponding inward beliefs 
and graces ; but no student of ' Psyche ' can 
fail to be struck with the disproportionate 

1 Gee, as before, p. xxzv. * Ibid. p. zxziv. 



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MEMORIAL'INTRODUCTION. 



value he attached to the visible and cere- 
moQial as distinguished from the spiritual 
and inward elements of worship. He em- 
phatically needed the help of 'sight' for 
nurture of his * faith.' ^ 

The death of the Yen. Archdeacon 
Hale, Master of Peterhouse, gave his un- 
filing friend, the Bishop of Ely, ' an oppor- 
tunity of replanting our author in that soil, 
which, of all others, he most affected and 
desired' > *This,' Mr. Pigot states, the 
Bishop did ' as visitor, having acquired the 
right to present, through some irregular pro- 
ceedings of the Fellows.' ^ I am specially 
pleased that it is in my power now to clear 
up the obscurity in which this ' presentation ' 
has been hitherto shrouded. None of his 
Biographers was cognisant of the facts. 
The present master of Feterhouse (Rev. 
James Porter, M.A., as before) has been 
good enough to favour me with careful 
transcripts of two important documents, 
never before printed. These I proceed to 
give in extenso; and for the sake of the 
general reader a translation of each is added. 
On the death of Hale, the Fellows of the 
College, in accordance — as they believed — 
with the statutes of the College, in a paper 
dated April nth, 1663, nominated two. 



1 I gladly make room for a qnotatioii here from an appre- 
daihe paper oo Beanmonifa 'Psyche' in the Retroapective 
Review (voL id. pp. agi^aX ' One of his biognpliert detcribes 
his character in a long sentence of antithetical eulogy, begin- 
ning with "religious without bigotry,** and ending "humble 
without meauness." We are not inclined to question the latter 
asscrfiom, but the former is more than problonadcal, although 
hisbigotry was probably more of the heart than the head. He 
appears in truth, from his writings, to have been one of a class 
of characters not tmcoounon in that age, and which it is im- 
possible to contemplate without a mixture of reverence for their 
\a^ worth, and regret for the human pr^udioes and infirmitiea 
which rendered that work in a great measure useless ; a truly 
idigious and upright, though narrow-minded man, capable of 
mdergoing any sacrifice in defence of principles which he 
perhaps only imperfectly undetstood ; tenacious to an eiccess, 
of the ontwurd form and observance of religion, yet strenuous 
in the perfonnanoe of active duties to a d^ree not always 
nt^i^ with thM i gppctfjs of piiTi ft ^ M ffnf Vfff iii, * 

s Gee, as before, pp. JcxjtvL-vii. See Appendix I. to this In- 
troduction, for a letter on Peterhouse. 

* Asbeforey p« tp3* 



Lucas Skippon and Isaac Barrow, to the 
Bishop (of Ely), and requested him to select 
the one he deemed the most fit of the two. 
But Wren had made up his mind that his 
son-in-law, Beaumont, was ^the most fit,' 
even with an Isaac Barrow at his choice ; 
and he qame down upon the Fellows with a 
vigour and audacity of self-assertion that 
must have astonished them. His Latinity 
is scholarly, if the tone of the document be 
far other than became a ' bishop.' Whether 
Lucas Skippon, who was nominated along 
with Barrow, was of the same family ?rith 
D. M. Skippon, to whom our Poet addressed 
one of his Latin poems (Vol. II. p. 259), 
does not appear. 

Here is Bishop Wren's * bull' (so-to-say) : — 

* Bfatthaens permissione Divinft Eliensis Episcopus 
Dilectis in x^ filiis Johanni Francio Medicinae Doc- 
tori caeterisque ordine sao CoUegii Nostri S^ Petri 
CantabrigiaeSodiSyEpiscoponim Eliensium Scholar!- 
bns, Salutem et Gratiam. 

'Quum officiom Mgri, sive Custodia domus sive 
Collegii S^ Petri non ita pridem per mortem natu- 
ralem Venerabilis Viri Bemardi Hale S. T. Pro- 
fessoris Archidiaconi Nostri Eliensis ▼acaverit, post- 
que dies eo in casu per statuta nostra designates ad 
nostram soluffiodo praefectionem sive donationem 
de jnre redderit ; 

* Turn ^d in die electtonis per tos habendae, sex 
tantnm socii [si vel sex illi quidem sodi fuerint] de 
toto quatuordecim pluriumve Numero [non igitnr 
omnes sodij pront per statntnm de dectione Mgri 
diserte cavetor, neqne major pars omnium] consen- 
senmt in primo scmtinio, in dnos aliquos a se eli- 
gendos, nobisque nominandos. 

' Tnm ddnde, qd praedari electores ill! sex viri, 
neqne per triduum expectftnint absentinm accessmn, 
neqne interea ipsi ad scmtiniam secundum tertiumque 
accesserunt, nti fieri debebat, quo inter se duo potuis- 
sent [modo debito] per consensum omnium sodorum, 
▼d majoris partes omuium ad offidum Mgri eligi 
nobisqne nominari. 

'Turn porro ^ scrntinium ilium primo habitum 
neqnaqnam per viam Spiritns s^^ processit, quam [ipsis 
quidem sex -viris heu ! nimis incognitam] e dicto 
statuto prindpalem primi scmtinii conditionem esse 
oportuit ; verum illius coitionis eventns per praevias 
conspirationes, non sine consutis dolis, atque profanis 
fidsimoniis, ne tmmunibns quidem ab opprobrio S.S. 



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Majestatis Rpgiae, multum diuque inter se, atque com 
aliis per colloqaia perque scripta agitata^, introductos 
est 

' Tom deniqne q^ literas suas testimoniales sigillo 
comoni Domds [qualiterconque] sigiUatas, subomatas 
tamen ante ipsum scrutinium, nominaque eligeodonim 
in antecessum inscriptas, raptim nobis surreptionis 
inferendae animo, transmiserant, sine aliquo tamen 
▼el decreto electionis, q<^ de jure requiritur ad confir- 
mationem, yd Tabeliione publico qui plenam atque 
authenticam probationem nobis faceret, non de per- 
sonis electis solum, sed etiam de forml electionis 
atque de studiis eligentium. 

' Quoniam igitur nobis Antecessorum nostrorum 
▼estigia prementibns, et in hoc casu dedsionem eorum 
secutis, [qui pro summ4 su& sapienti4 caventes contra 
Actionem et studia partium, tfe ipsam nominationem 
quidem duorum at offidum Mgri concredere sodis 
Collegii voluerunt, nisi sub h&c provisione, ut omnes 
socii yel major pars eorundem in tali electione duorum, 
atque ad Visitatorem referendorum, consentirent ; 
aliter vero si res acdderet, sibi met ipsis et Ef!is 
Eliensibus pro tempore futuris ex integro reservaii 
voluerunt jus et potestatem in tali casu praefidendi 
in Magistrum Collegii virum talem quern ipsi solum 
duxerint idoneum], Visum nunc fuerit jure nostro Epis- 
copaU et Visitatorio uti, et negotium hoc integrum ad 
nos redpere, eoque intuitu totum ilium processum ab 
illis in primo scrutinio habitum, atque tot defectibus 
tam praeviis quam subsecutis onustum vitiatumque 
repudiare, parique ratione etiam et literas Ulas testi- 
moniales electionis suae pro irritis cassisque habere, 
totumque praetensae illius modi electionis decursum 
neutiquam acceptandum a nobis aut confirmandum 
esse, sed prorsus excludendum esse atque annul- 
landum. 

'[Prout jam per sententiam nostram definitivam 
[accersiti aliunde quam a sex viris illis plenarii atque 
fide dignS. relatione circumstantiarum omnium in dicto 
negotio] per praesentes pronuntiamus et dedaramus ea 
singula respective a nobis repudiari, cassari, excludi, 
annullari, nihilique prorsus et pro nullis haberi]. 

' Dictumque ofiicium Magri custodiamque Domib 
sive Collegii nri S** Petri in dictA Universitate pro 
jure nostro Episcopal! et Visitatorio conferre Ven*^* 
Viro Magro Josepho Beaumont Sacrae Theologiae 
Professori, quern nos non solum idoneum esse 
dudmus et perquam habilem, virum pium, providum 
atque discretum, et in spiritualibus tempoialibusque 
circumspectum, Majestoti etiam Regiae a sacris 
domesticis, et in ecclesid nostrfi, Cathedrali Canoni- 
cum, venim etiam Collegialis praefecturae rerumque 
Academicarum cum bono Deo non vulgariter callen- 
tem et Decessori suo Petrensi [viro optimo et Collegii 



S^ Petri egregio benefactori cujus memoria non 
solum praefectis omnibus sed etiam piis cnnctis et 
Domui huic benevolentibus erit in perpetuA bene- 
dictione] vel hoc nomine imprimis carum, morumque 
denique probitate pietateque praedaram, dotibnsqne 
ingenii instructissimum, CoU^o igitur Petrensi in 
quo per multos annos a pueritii educatua est, 
apprime utilem [o-w 6ejl] futurum ; Atque ipsum 
solenni form& admittere ad Collegii istius Regimen, 
omniumqne et singulorum CoUegio quocunque modo 
pertinentium curam praefato Josepho Beaumont in 
Domino comittere, prout per praesentes litetas 
nostras, nos praefedsse, admisisse cofiiisisse jam 
Bignificamus. 

' Vobis igitur singulis et universis nunc mandamus, 
atque in virtute obedientiae vestrae per juramentum 
▼estnun nobis debitae finniter injungtmus, quatenns 
eondem Josephum in Magrum et Custodem Collegii 
cum efiiectu et reverenti& debitft redpiatis, atque ddem 
in Ileitis et canouicis mandatis tanquam vestro superior! 
et Mgro domusque sive Collegii Nostri Custodi 
obedientes sitis et intendentes, prout statuta et 
ordinationes dictae domus requinmt offidaque vcstra 
respective exigunt, sub paena Juris.. 

'Porro autem pcaedpimus vobis, ut post cxecu- 
tionem hujus mandati nostri nil moremini illud, in 
perpetuam rei memoriam rectamque explicationem 
futuris temporibus statuti de electione Mgri, inter 
acta refene, cnrarequeut in vegistro Collegii fideliter 
inseratur [ne deinceps erretur a Sociis in eodem 
genere] ante proximam nostram Collegii visitationem 
de quft iterandi videmus jam necessitatem nobis 
[praeter spem quidem] incumbere, quamprimum 
dabitur per Dd beneficium atque recessum Parlia- 
menti ad Dioecesin nostram nos reduces fieri 

' In cujus rd testimonium sigillum nostrum E{{ale 
praesentibus apposuimus, Datis apud Manerium 
nostrum infra Holborne in Comtu Midtfxiae vicesimo 
primo die mensis Aprilis A° Dai millesimo sexcen- 
tesimo sexagesimo tertio nostraeque translationis 
secundae [ad sedem Eliensem sdlicet] anno vicesimo 

quinto. 

•Ma: Elib.' 

Translation. 

Matthew by Divine permission Bishop of Ely, to 
his beloved sons in Christ, John Francis, Doctor of 
Medidne, and the other Fellows of our College of 
St. Peter at Cambridge in their order, sdiolars of the 
Bishop of Ely, health and favour. 

Inasmuch as the office of Master, or guardianship 
of the House or College of St Peter, has latdy be- 
come vacant by the natural death of the Venerable 
Bernard Hale, Professor of Sacred Theology, our 



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Archdeacon of Ely, and after the days in that case 
declared by oar statutes, has fallen to our appoint- 
ment or gift alone according to law : 

Then inasmuch as on the day of Election to be 
holden by you, six fellows only (if even those six 
indeed were fellows) out of the whole number of 
fourteen or more (not therefore all the fellows, as 
by the statute concerning the election of a Master it 
is expressly provided, nor the greater part of all) 
agreed, at the first scrutiny, upon some two persons 
to be chosen by them and to be nominated by us ; 

Then in the next place, inasmuch as the fiunous 
electors, those six individuals, did not even wait 
during a space of three days for the arrival of the 
absent ones, nor themselves in the meanwhile resorted 
to a second and third scrutiny, as was proper to be 
done, by which among themselves two might have 
been able (in due manner) by the consent of all the 
fellows, or the greater part of all, to be chosen for 
the office of Master and to be nominated by us : 

Then moreover, inasmuch as that Scrutiny at first 
holden by no means proceeded according to the way 
of the Holy Spirit, which way (alas ! too unfamiliar 
to those six men indeed) according to the aforesaid 
statute, ought to have been the principal condition 
of the first scrutiny ; but the issue of that meeting 
was introduced by previous combinations (not with- 
out patched-up deceits and proiiuie tricks, not even 
free from conduct derogjstory to the sacred Royal 
Majesty) much and for a long time meditated among 
themselves and with others by means of conversations 
and by means of written documents. 

Then finally, inasmuch as they transmitted their 
letters-testimonial sealed (in whatever manner) with 
the conmion seal of the Houses procured however 
before the scrutiny itself and inscribed with the name 
of the persons to be chosen beforehand, with the 
purpose of hastily snatching our consent, — ^without, 
however, either any notice of election, which by law 
is required for confirmation, or any notary public 
who should make full and authentic proof to us, not 
only concerning the persons elected, but also con- 
cerning the form of election and the objects of the 
electors— 

Since, therefore, to us, adhering to the footsteps of 
our predecessors,, and in this case following their de- 
cision (who to the utmost of their wisdom, guarding 
against faction and party-spirit, were not willing to 
intrust to the fellows of the College even the very 
nomination of two persons to the office, except under 
this condition that all the fellows or the greater part 
of the same should agree in such election of two 
persons and those to be referred to the Visitor ;. but 
if the matter should turn out otherwise they wished 



that the right and power in such a case should be 
reserved afresh to themselves and the Bishop of Ely 
for the time being, of appointing as Master of the 
Collie such a man as they themselves only thought 
suitable) it has now seemed good to use our episcopal 
and visitatorial right and to resume this whole busi- 
ness to ourselves, and with this view to repudiate this 
whole proceeding carried on by them in the first 
scrutiny and loaded and vitiated by so many defects 
as well preceding as succeeding, and in like manner 
to hold as null and void those letters^testimonial of 
their election, and that the whole course of a pre- 
tended election of such a kind ought by no means to 
be accepted and confirmed by us, but utterly rejected 
and annulled. 

According as now by our definite sentence (a fiill 
and trustworthy account of all circumstances in the 
aforesaid business having been obtained from other 
sources than those six men) by these presents ws 
pronounce and declare each of these things respec- 
tively to be repudiated, accounted void, rejected, 
annulled and held as utterly worthless and of no con- 
sideration whatever^ 

And the said office of Master and theGnardianship 
of our College or House of St. Peter in the said 
University according to our episcopal and visitatorial 
right (WE proceed) to confer upon the venerable man 
Mr. Joseph Beaumont, professor of Sacred Theology, 
whom we not only deem to be suitable and very fit, 
a pious man, prudent and discreet, and in spiritual 
and temporal matters circumspect, also one of the 
domestic chaplains to his Royal Majesty, and a Canon 
in our cathedral church, but also uncommonly versed 
in (the requirements of) a College Masteiship and in 
academical affairs, and to his predecessor at Peter- 
house (a most excellent man and eminent benefactor 
of the College of St Peter, whose menjory will be 
an everlasting benediction not only with all Masters 
but also all good men and well-wishers, to this House). 
Even on this account particularly dear ; and finally 
illustrious for the uprightness and piety of his 
character and abundantly furnished with the endow- 
ment of genius, and therefore for the College of St. 
Peter, in which during a course of many years from 
his boyhood he was educated, likely to be (with the 
blessing of God) especially useful. 

And HIM in solemn form (wjE resolve) to admit to 
the government of the College itself, and to intrust 
in the Lord the care of all and singular appertaining 
in. any manner to the College, to the aforesaid Joseph 
Beaumont, according as by our present letters we 
now signify that we have appointed, admitted and 
intrusted.. 

To you therefcxe all and singular we now give com- 



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MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION. 



mandment, and in virtae of your obedience dne by 
yoar oath to us, we firmly enjoin, that you receive the 
same Joseph as Master and Guardian of the College 
with effect and reverence, and be obedient and atten- 
tive to the same in lawful and canonical commands 
as to your Superior and Master and Guardian of our 
House or College, according as the statutes and ordi- 
nances of the said House require, and your duties 
respectively demand, under penalty of the Law. 

And, moreover, we enjoin you that after the execa- 
tion of this our mandate, ye delay not to lay it up 
among your deeds (for the perpetual remembrance of 
this thing and the rig^t explanation to future times 
of this statute concerning the election of a Master), 
and to take care that it be faithfully inserted in the 
register of the College (that an error of a similar 
kind may not be committed by the fellows hereafter), 
before our next viiitation of the College, for repeat- 
ing which we now see the necessity to be upon us 
(beyond indeed our expectation), as soon as it shall 
be permitted us, by the favour of God and the recess 
of Parliament, to return to our Diocese. 

In witness whereof we have affixed our episcopal 
seal to these presents, given at our abode bdow 
Holbom in the county of Middlesex, on the twenty- 
first day of the month of April, in the year of oar 
Lord 1663, and of our second translation (to wit, to 
the see of Ely) in the twenty-fifth year. 

One asks musingly, suppose the ^ six 
fellows,' who are so be-lectured and humili- 
ated by this ^one^ small Hildebrand, had 
put Joseph fieaumont's name in their nomina- 
tion-letter, would not these contemptible 
technicalities have been allowed to vanish 
into space? As it was, certain formalities, 
such as in all probability had never been 
adhered to in the letter, having been departed 
from, the irate and nepotic Bishop set an 
Isaac Barrow aside and enforced a Joseph 
Beaumont on the recalcitrant fellows. And 
Joseph Beaumont was Joseph Beaumont and 
Isaac Barrow was Isaac Barrow the immortal 

The second document — ^happily much 
shorter — was addressed to Beaumont him- 
self, and thus runs : 

* Matthaeus permissione divinft Eliensis Episcopus 
Dileeto nobis in i^ filio Josepho Beaumont SS. 
Theologiae Professori atque Coll^ Jesu Canta- 
brigiae Praefecto Gratiam et Benedictionem. Of* 
fidiim sive Custodiam Domus sive Cdlegii nostri S^ 



Petri in Universtitate Cantab : per mortem naturalem 
optimi viri Bemardi Hale SS. Theologiae Profes- 
soris et Archidiaconi nostri Eliensis jam vacantem, 
atque ad praefectionem sive donationem nostram jure 
per statuta CoUegii reserrato, pro hftc vice ex integro 
spectantem Tibi Conferimus intuitu Charitatis, Teque 
quem idonenm esse ducimus atque Collegio Eidem 
in quo per multos annos Educatus olim es, apprime 
utilem [v^ 6c{»] futumm admittimus, Receptoque a 
te Juramento CorporaH ad SS* Dei Evangelia tam 
de renuntiando omni et omnimodae Authoritati, 
juriadictioni, et potestati forinsecis, ac de agnoscendo 
Angustissimi in E^ Prindpis D^ nostri Caroli Se- 
cundi regiam supremam authoritatem et potestatem 
in omnibus causis ecdesiasticis et dvilibus infra 
regna sua, ac etiam de fidelitate sive allegiantia dicto 
Dfio Regi Carolo et succcssoribus suis praestandi 
juxta statuta inclyti hujus Regni in eA parte edita 
atque provisa : Quam de obeervando statuta CoUegii 
praedicti, deque obedientiA nobis et succcssoribus 
nostris in lidtis et canonicis mandatis piaestandi, in 
magrum atque custodem domds sive CoUegii S^ 
Petri praedicti [pro jure devoluto atque Episcopis 
Eliensibus in hoc casu per statuta ipsa reservato] 
Praeficimus et assumimus in eodem per praesentes 
cum suis juribus et pertinentiis universis et curam 
atque regimen dictae domfts sive CoUegii ac omnium 
et singulorum ddem quocunque modo pertinentium 
tibi in D^o committentes committimus juribus 
nostris Episcopalibus et Ecclesiae nostrae Cathedralis 
Eliensis dignitate et honore in omnibus semper salvis. 
' In cujus rd testimonium sigiUum nostrum Epale 
praesentibus apposuimus, Datis vioesimo primo die 
mensis Aprilis Ao D^ millesimo sexcentesimo 
tertio, atque nostrae translationis ad sedem Eliensem 
anno vicesimo quinto. 

<Ma:Eub:' 

TltANSLATIGM. 

Matthew by Divine permission Bishop of Ely, 
to our beloved son in Christ, Joseph Beaumont, 
Professor of Sacred Theology and Master of Jesus 
College, Cambridge, grace and blessing. 

The office of Master or guardianship of our House 
or College of St Peter in the University of Cambridge 
now being vacant by the natural death of that most 
excellent man Bernard Hale, S.T.P., and our 
Archdeacon of Ely, and looking afresh for this turn 
to our appointment and gift by the Law reserred 
according to the statutes of the College, WB confer 
upon thee in regard of our love, and admit thee 
whom we deem to be suitable and likely to be 
espedally useful to that same College, in which during 
many years thou wert formerly educated ; and, Ae 
corporal vote having been recdved from thee on the 



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XXXI 



holy Gospel of God as well concerning the renouncing 
of all and whatever authority, jurisdiction and power 
from without, and concerning the recognising the royal 
supreme authority and power of our most august 
prince and lord in Christ, Charles the Second, in all 
cases ecclesiastical and dvil within his realms, and 
also ccMicerning the showing fidelity or allegiance to 
the said lord and kiog Charles and his successors, 
according to the statutes of this famous realm in this 
respect made and provided ; as well as concerning the 
showing of the statutes of the aforesaid CoUegei and 
concerning the rendering obedience to us and our 
successors in lawful and canonical commands, WB 
appoint and at the same time assume thee as Master 
and guardian of the aforesaid House or College of 
St Peter (according to the right devolved and 
reserved to the Bishop of Ely in this case by the 
statutes themselves) by these presents, with all their 
rights and pertinencies, and in the Lord committing 
we commit to thee the care and rule of the said 
House or College, and of all and singular appertaining 
in any manner to the same, our episcopal rights and 
the dignity and honour of our Cathedral Church of 
Ely being in all things unimpaired. 

In witness whereof we have affixed our episcopal 
seal to these presents, given on the twenty-first day of 
the month of April in the year of our Lord 1663, and 
of our translation to the See of Ely the twenty-fifth. 

And so humbly accepting the 'royal 
supreme authority and power of our most 
august prince and lord in Christ, Charles 
THE Second, in all cases ecclesiastical and 
civil,' Dr. Joseph Beaumont entered on his 
office. ^ The grander ' Mastership ' of Trinity 
was waiting for Isaac Barrow. 

The following extract from a diary kept 
by Dr. Beaumont commencing April aist, 
1663, written at Peterhouse, shows that he 
was admitted Master on April 24th of the 
same year : — 

* Aprilis igitnr 24^ a CoUegio Jesu [constantibus 
istius Collegii Sodis scholaribusque] hue migro atque 
in auUl receptus a D** Francio Prsesidente [praelecto 
jy^ Episcopi Mandato, nee non Institutionis Instru- 
mento : petactis etiam quae hie in parte statuta 
jubent] admittor ad Magistri munus.'* 

1 See AppeiuOx II. for a curious letter of Beaumonfs on 
Chailet II. when Prince of Wales. 

* The Master in sending above adds \—* This diary relates 
ezclndvely to CoD^e business, and is kept with great minute- 
ness tiU September a8, 1666. The last entiy but one (undated) is 



Gee thus magnifies the appointment : — 

'In advancing him to this station, his patron gave 
not a less convincing testimony of his judgment in 
distinguishing true merit, than of his regards to per- 
sonal friendship ; for all the time he continued at the 
head of that Society, his only endeavour was to recom- 
mend and preserve order in everything which related 
to it, and to set before them, by his own modest, 
firugal, and studious life, a pattern of all human and 
social virtues ; and this design he surely answered 
above any man who had ever been raised to that 
station ; his whole life being employed in promoting 
the constant and reasonable worship of the Deity, 
the due and salutary observance of the statutes, and 
the real welfare of every single member of the 
Society. As he looked upon vice, profuieness, and 
ignorance to be the certain sources of contempt and 
disesteem to any, but most of all, to a religious and 
learned community, he used aU the means in his power 
to discourage them, without the least respect to the 
quality of the persons in whom they were found ; oa 
the other hand, as his judgment was quick in dis- 
cerning virtue and diligence, under whatever disad- 
vantage of birth or fortune they lay concealed, he 
omitted no opportunities of setting them in their de- 
served light, and of rewarding the possessors of them 
with his countenance and fiivour. Persons of learn- 
ing, good sense, and piety, languishing in obscurity 
and under the many distresses which want and cold 
neglect too generally produce, were ever disagreeable 
objects to his benevolent heart, and therefore under the 
denomination of his Sizar, he always entertained one, 
and sometimes more, in his own fiunily, where, from 
their admission to the College till they commenced 
Bachelors of Arts, they were not only liberally sup- 
plied with the decent necessaries of life, but had at 
all times free access to his library, and very often to 
his more useful and improving conversation.' ^ 

This is pleasing testimony, and brings the 
Master of Fetarhouse attractively before us. 

— " Pestis, denno fugat Academicos et oppsdanoa populator. 
Miserioordia Too Dai." ' He further writes :— ' There is in the 
College Treasiuy a thick folio volume of nearly 500 pages, con« 
taining elaborate accounts, in Dr. Beaumont's handwriting* of 
the income of the Mastership, of aome private estates of his own, 
and of the estate at Summenham, which forms the endowment 
of the Regius Profrssorship of Divnity. These accounts are 
beautiiuyy written, and the entries are continued till September 
169^ I have fnramtnrd this volume with care, hoping to find 
some details of the cost of publication of his works, but have 
found nothing.' Prefixed to our Vol. II. is a fiicsimile of Beau- 
mont's handwriting and autogrmth from his ' Diary,' as photo- 
graphed for me by the Master. 
^ As befcce, pp. xaanriL-viiL 



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MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION. 



Stately, grave, not very genial or companion- 
able, but really wishful to be a father, I like 
to picture him going out and in, and carrying 
a purifying, elevating influence with him. 

In 1663 he was * instituted '—on the 
presentation of the Bishop again — ^to the 
rectoiy of Teversham, near Cambridge, and 
in 1664 to that of Barley in Hertfordshire, 
* where he alternately resided in the vacation 
months every summer, feeding the indigent, 
instructing the ignorant, and faithfully dis- 
charging all the offices of the pastoral charge.' 
So Gee ;^ but neither at Teversham nor at 
Barley is there a shred of memorial of him. 
There is this difficulty too, that while thus 
accepting accumulated livings, he must, in 
part at least, contemporaneously have drawn 
the income of those already his. It is surely 
a measure of progress that such pluralities 
and sinecures could not now be held. The 
mystery is how a man of Christian con- 
science could concentrate in himself such 
widely-sundered * livings,' and appropriate 
revenues for which he did nothing whatever.* 

In 1665 he was involved in controversy 
with Dr. Henry More, 'that learned Visi- 
onaire,' as Gee describes him in his account 
of the matter, which must now be given : — 

' The Doctor had advanced some doctrines in his 
Mystery of Godliness which seemed to our Author not 
only subversive of our excellent constitution both in 
Church and State, but also productive of many evils 
to the Christian religion. He therefore made such 
remarks upon them as he thought necessary, and 
privately communicated them to the Doctor by means 
of a common friend, by whom also he in the gentle 
spirit of Christianity admonished him to satisfy the 

1 As before, p. xjExriii. Famous Isaac Millet was his curate. 
See his Life, pp. ax-a. He was allowed ' a plentiful! stipend' 

1 Unfortunately the Registers of other 'livings' held by 
Beaumont of these dates have perished ; but the invariable 
report is that there are no personal memorials of him. It seems 
clear that hu visits were sporadic and formal, as indeed far-off 
Hertfordshire suggests. At Conington, St. Neots*, his name is 
entered as incumbent from January as, T66a : another incumbent 
appears to have been appointed May a, 1664 (Rev. F. J. Hop- 
kins, M.A., to meX No trace of residence or work is found. 
Surely he had never read brave John Blaxton's ' Remonstrance 
against the Non-Residents of greate Brittaine' (1643)1 



University (where his book was conceived to have 
done moet mischieO by retiacdng sndi of his opiniotts 
as were most dangerous and heretical. But the 
Doctor thought fit to draw these private objections on 
to the public stage, which he endeavoored to dear 
snd answer by a long and laboured apology. This 
appeal to the public laid Dr. Beaumont under the 
necessity of publishing the objections, and making 
objections upon the apology ; which he did with so 
much modesty, learning, wit, and judgment, that he 
received the Uianks of the University, and a testimony 
of the good opinion which that body had of the per* 
fbrmance was added to the nsval imprmeUur.* * 

The books on both sides survive and are 
readily accessible. In my judgment Beau- 
mont never gets at More's meaning, and 
More crushes him, as one might crush a lim- 
pet shell, in his iron grasp and strangely- 
piercing though mystical logic. The Univer- 
sity held Henry More for 'suspect/ recognised 
not the immortal who was among them, and 
appraised higher the clearness of a stream 
of pious commonplace than the dark but 
lustrous oceanic fulness of the unique Thinker 
who made appeal to them. 

In 1674 (not 1670 as Gee) 'he was called 
without any application from himself, or 
competition from any other, by the united 
voice of the Statutable Electors to fill the 
Divinity Chair' of the University.* The 
Biographer has such an outburst over the 
manners of the time as evokes involuntarily 
the exclamation of Scott's Dominie Sampson 
— * prodigious I* I content myself with the 
close of it: — 'The University of Cambridge 
had the happiness to be generally untainted 
with the spreading poison \e.g,^ *the tenets 
of Calvin and the absurdities of Puri- 
tanism M 1 1] ; which security, under God, was 
in a great measure owing to the indefatigable 
endeavours, the profound learning, and the 
persuasive reasons of the King's Divinity 
Professor.' • 

1 Gee, a> before, p. xIL 

* As before, p. xl. The Master of Peterhovse comets Gee's 
date for me. It is also 1674 in the Cambridge Gcaduati PigoC» 
as before, p. 164. 

> Gee, ss before. 



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* The plan/ continues Gee, * which in dis- 
charge of this important trust he marked 
out to himself of reading public lectures in 
Divinity twice a week in every term, was (if 
not entirely new and peculiar to himself) 
carried on, and executed with unusual and 
unexampled assiduity ; for during the whole 
term of twenty-nine [twenty-five] years, in 
which he so worthily filled that Chair, he 
was very seldom known to allow himself in 
any omissions of this part of it, except when 
compelled by indisposition of health ; from 
which cause, by the blessing of God and a 
temperate life, no man ever had fewer inter- 
ruptions.'^ He selected St Paul's Epistles 
to the Romans and Colossians for his sub- 
ject-matter of very many Lectures. With 
every disposition to accredit his Biographer 
when he praises his 'pure, imafiected, classi- 
cal style ' in these Lectures, one demiu-s, on 
examining the specimens of those on Colos- 
sians printed in the volume of 1749. They 
must have been terribly sapless and tedious 
discourses. The very abundance of his 
apparatus contributed to this; for in his 
anxiety to furnish what St. Chrysostom to 
Theophylact down to Grotius had said about 
the inspired words, he forgets exegetically 
to bring out what the Apostle himself 
says. I must re^bserve, that he showed his 
wonted prudence and common-sense in for- 
bidding his Executors to print any of these 
Lecture-Manuscripts. 'Learned foreigners' 
— ^nameless unfortunately — ^are alleged to 
have timed their visits to Cambridge in order 
to hear him.' He must have been generous 
in his hospitalities. 

In the year 1689 when what was called 
the * Comprehension ' was promoted * under 
the fair appearance of uniting the whole 
kingdom in one form of Cxod's worship and 
public devotions, he was nominated among 
the commissioners appointed for that pur- 



* Gee, M before, p. xlii 



^IhitL p. xliv. 



pose; but he never took his place at that 
board ; for by his long experience and know- 
ledge of the views and principles of those 
who were enemies to Conformity, he was 
very sensible how little probability there was 
of their resting satisfied with the alterations 
in the Liturgy which were then proposed; 
and that, if they had been consented to, 
they were ready to firame other exceptions 
to it, which, he believed, they would have 
insisted upon with equal confidence and 
obstinacy.'^ I do not marvel that Joseph 
Beaumont dreaded meeting Richard Bax- 
ter and the Nonconformists. But any 
assumption more inept and inapt than that 
his ' long experience and knowledge of the 
views and principles of those who were 
enemies to Conformity,' is inconceivable. 
He was in crassest ignorance of them ; and 
to^y it is the same. Your Church of 
England clergymen and professors in Uni- 
versities are lamentably and densely ignorant 
of the contemporary Christian life and 
Christian work of evangelical Nonconformity, 
in its ministers and other office-bearers and 
Sunday-school teachers, and membership and 
adherents generally. I will not deny that 
the ignorance is modifiedly shared by 
Nonconformists of the Church of England 
as of the Roman Catholic Church. Know- 
ledge of each other would lead inevitably to 
mutual recognition and respect ; for in every 
thing fundamental, English-speaking evan- 
gelical Nonconformity knows only the One 
Heavenly Father, the One Divine Lord and 
Saviour, the One quickening and sanctifying 
Holy Spirit, the one Divine Book of Books, 
with the one salvation by the ' finished Work ' 
of Jesus Christ DiflFerences are merely eccle- 
siastical, and all ecclesiasticism is of the 
incidents and accidents not of the substance 
of Christianity. It is to be deplored there- 
fore that Dr. Joseph Beaumont and other 

1 Gee, as before, pp. xlvi-viL 



46 



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XXXIV 



MEMORIAI^INTRODUCTION. 



Episcopal dignitaries met the ' Comprehen- 
sion' scheme of 1689 so chillily, and mani- 
fested so little faith in the abiding power of 
the Head of the Church to bring his own to 
agreement 

Here I let one of the historians of ' The 
EngHsh Church in the Eighteenth Century ' 
— the Rev. Charles J. Abbey — speak on the 
heart of the matter : — 

' To return to the beginning of the period under 
review. * * Divine right, " * * Passive obedience, " " Non- 
resistance," are phrases which long ago have lost life, 
and which sound over the gulf of time like fiunt and 
shadowy echoes of controversies which belong to an 
already distant past. Even in the middle of the cen- 
tury it must have been difficult to realise the vehe- 
mence with which the semi-religious, semi-political, 
doctrines contained in those terms had been disputed 
and maintained in the generation preceding. Yet 
round these doctrines, in defence or in opposition, 
some of the best and most honourable principles of 
human nature used to be gathered — a high-minded 
love of liberty on the one hand, a no less lofty spirit 
of self-sacrifice and loyalty on the other.' ... * The 
iSth century saw the last in England of a dogma 
which had ennobled loyalty by infusing it so largely 
with religion, even while it dishonoured religion 1^ 
investing with something of its sanctity even ^e most 
arbitrary acts of royal power.' (VoL i. pp. 13, 14). 

Our Worthy continued to dischaige his 
varied and onerous functions 

'with no less application and spirit, even when 
advanced to his 84th year, than he had done in the 
strength and vigour of his age ; nor could the most 
earnest admonitions of his friends, nor the passionate 
entreaties of his only surviving and deservedly dear 
son dissuade him itom. undergoing such fatigues, as 
nature at that season of life could not well bear. 
With this too inflexible regard to his duty, and too 
little to the warnings of what he considered as a slight 
indisposition, he persisted in a resolution to preach in 
his turn before the University on the 5th of November 
1699, and exerted himself upon the occasion with 
remarkable energy and alacrity ; but when the service 
was concluded he perceived himself so chilled and 
feeble, that he bore the removal to his own home 
with the utmost difficulty. A high fever came on the 
same evening, and a few days after, the gout in his 
stomach ; which after he had endured the most tor- 



menting pains with that composure of mind and re- 
signation of himself to the disposal of the Supreme 
Being, which was agreeable to and might be expected 
from a review of a well-spent life, put an end to his 
mOTtal state the a3d day of the same month. '^ 

Mr. Pigot writes : — 

'There is some difficulty in fixing on the exact 
place of his interment. He is said (Bentham's His- 
tory of Ely Cathedral) to have been buried in the 
Clmpel of Peterhouse ; but whether this means the 
Church of St. Mary the Less, which was formerly 
used as the College Chapel, or whether it means the 
present Chapel of the Society, is not satis&ctorily 
determined.** 

All this is of the ' pains ' of imagination. 
He was certainly buried in the College 
Chapel. The Master of Peterhouse has 
collated with the originals the memorial- 
epitaphs or inscriptions as given by Nichols 
and Pigot and others. On the north side of 
the ante-chapel of the College Chapel, there 
is now a tablet of wood (probably oak), 
gilded and painted, and bearing the follow- 
ing inscription : — 

«P. M. 

JosEPHo Beaumont, 

S. S*^ Theologiae Professoris Regii, 

et hujus Collegii custodis dignissimL 

Qui doctrinse omnis ac pietatis 
Gazophiladum fuit augustissimum ; 
Poeta, Orator, Theologus prsestantissimus ; 
quovis nomine hereticorum malleus, 
et veritatis vindex palmarius. 
Obiit setatis suae anno Ixxxiv" 
Illustre Specimen, 
quod egregiis aliquando producatnr setas, 
annoque Domini MDCXCIX 
in ipso nempe seculi pede, 
utpote literatorum qui in iUo flomere, 
non modo coronis, verum etiam summa. 
At tibi quod bini omantur, vir maxime, dppi 
Hie auri, & ille marmoris, veniam dato^ 
Non metus ut vigeat sens tua gloria sec'lis 
Sed nostra id importunior pietas facit. 
Neutro, Sdmus, eges, cum Scripta reliqueris, auro 
Pretiosiora, perennioramarmore.' 

1 Gee, as befoce, pp. xlvii, xlviii. 

* As before, pp. 165-6 : bat I have taken the inacriptioa from 
Nichols, ut in/ra^ and the Master of Peterhouse has kindly 
collated it with the original 



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MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION, 



XXXV 



' It will be observed,' continues Mr. Pigot, 
'that reference is here made to another 
monument of marble. This may probably 
cover his grave, and since that is not in the 
present Chapel of Peterhouse, it has been 
supposed that it must lie in the Church of 
St Mary the Less, although it has not been 
found tiiere. It, may, however, be covered 
by the pews.'^ Once more — ^this is needless 
speculation. The ' stone ' is in the College 
Chapel of Peterhouse. John Nichols gives 
from 'a black marble on the floor,' this 
'epitaph' with the arms of Beaumont (also 
revised by the present Master) : — 

' Depositum 

Viri admodum rererendi 

Josephi Beaumont, 

nnper oollegii S^ Petri pnefecti ; 

S. S. Theologise Professoris Regii, 

et ecclesiae Eliensis canonici, 

qui obiit 23 die Novembris, 

^ (Dom..699 

( etatis suae 84. 

Hie requiesdt in spe beatn resurrectioiiis.'' 

I have thus sought with all integrity to 
tell the little story of the life of Dr. Joseph 
Beaumont. I have set down nothing 'in 
malice,' nor have I attempted to * extenuate ' 
what seemed to be blameable. But I must 
have belied my own impression if, spite of 
his unheroic mould and infirmities of opinion 
and action, he does not stand out of the 

^ As before, pp. i6s<6w 

• Nichols, West Gcscote Hundred: VoL uL Part ii. pp. 
734*5 [in Index 754-755 *n cnror^ 1804. Be&tham's Ely, p. 8616, 
boot exact 



shadows of erewhile obscurity, a conspicuous 
and venerable figure. His portrait authen- 
ticates itself. It is precisely that high but 
narrow, keen-eyed ascetic face, but with weak 
though obstinate lip, and gentlemanly yet 
somewhat shrewish set of the head, one 
would have pre-imagined.^ If it be simply 
impossible to consent to the plethoric eulogy 
of John Gee — as illustrated by our quota- 
tions — ^it does not seem necessary to abate 
very much from the verse-tribute of Wood- 
ford, prefixed to the 'Psyche' of 1702. I 
like to think kindly of the old man, and 
more than kindly of the Poet of * Psyche,' the 
remarkableness of which I shall now proceed 
to state and demonstrate. He is long gone, 
and in memory, let him stand up trans- 
figured, with all his bigotries and sectarian- 
isms fallen fi*om him, and the saintly and 
quaint Singer our main thought* 

' Through love to light 1 Oh wonderfiil the way 
That leads from darkness to the perfect day i 
From, darkness and from dolor of the night 
To morning that comes singing o'er the sea. 
Through love to light I Through light, O God, to Thee, 
Who art the love of love, the eternal light of Ught !*• 

1 The Master informs me that at Peterhoose there is a fine 
original portrait in oils of him. 

s I have omitted to notice that like Pope, Dr. Beaumont was 
also an artist. The pictures for the altar of Peterhouse Chapel 
were drawn by him in chalk and charcoal ; and Carter, the 
CamlHidgeshire historian, thought the Wise Man's Offering on 
the north side, 'particularly fine.'— WiUmott's Sacred Poets, 
zst Series, p. 339, quoted by Mr. Pigot. The Master infonns 
me that these 'drawings' or 'pictures' have long disappeared. 
I feel sure he was fond of music. See c. xx. st. 385-9861 See 
Appendix III. for certain additions to this Memoir. 

» 'After Song' in 'The New Day. a Poem, or Songs and 
Sonaets by Richard Watson Gilder. New York, 1876, p. Z03. 



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XXXVl 



MEMORIAL^INTRODUCTION. 



IL— CRITICAL. 



Passing from the uneventful story of the 
Life of Dr. Joseph Beaumont, — ^thankful 
that it is now, however, told more substan- 
tively than hitherto, — it may be permitted me 
to invite the attention of those to whom he 
is a stranger, to certain points in and of his 
Poetry that seem to odl for accentuation, 
elucidation, and illustration. While I have 
little faith in what Dr. William Aldis Wright 
of Cambridge has contemptuously dubbed 
'sign-post criticism,' I find it increasingly 
acceptable to summarily inform readers be- 
forehand of what they may expect in a given 
Worthy that they are asked to study. I 
wish, therefore, to appropriate my accom- 
plished friend's word, though without its 
sting or stigma, by acting the part of ' Inn ' 
host, after the old-fashioned type one still 
meets with in inviolate nooks of England. 
By the necessities of the case and circum- 
stance, an Editor, caeteris paribus^ is likelier 
to know more of his books than an ordinary 
reader; and in the present, as in former 
introductions, my one motif has been to 
fetch from the Worthy in hand, such charac- 
teristics as have struck myself in working 
upon him, and as may lead to further per- 
sonal acquaintance on the part of the select 
few whom I would fain persuade to know 
' Psyche.' May I not say that he is a churl 
who would refuse red-cheeked apple, or dewy 
strawberries, or hand-full of wood-flowers, or 
spray of hawthorn, that some youthful ex- 
plorer of orchard or greenwood offers him, 
on the plea that he could easily find them 
himself? Or, to return upon the Cambridge 
metaphor, it surely cannot be rightly looked 
on as self-conceit, if seated (as it were) in 
my 'Old Arm Chair,' as by a quaint and 
ancient, cosy and home-like 'Inn '-par- 
lour fireside, I chat to any comers who 



choose to seek my company, of this old 
Poet? ' An' it please thee,' call my essay a 
' sign-post ;' I am content if only it attract 
some few choice spirits within — ^not for 
'blood-red wine,' or even Bp. Still's nut- 
brown nappy ale, but to such intellectual 
cheer and festival as, in my judgment, this 
Poetry furnishes. I again willingly risk gibe 
or flout from the serenely self-satisfied, — who 
need none to guide or inform them, — ^by 
venturing to submit observations under these 
five heads : — 

I. Representative passages, with 

PARALLELS. 

II. Feucitous and memorable things. 

III. NOTABILIA AND ODDITIES. 

IV. Various readings. 
V. Claims. 

We have to adduce : — 

I. Representative passages with par- 
allels. — By ^ represtntatiue passages' I in- 
tend such as inevitably arrest you in reading 
' Psyche ' if you are at all awake (or awake- 
able). It was to these, doubtless, Pops 
referred when he said of 'Psyche' — ' There 
are in it a good many flowers well worth 
gathering; and a man who has the art of 
stealing wisely will find his account in read- 
ing of it'^ I mean 'flowers' certainly; but 
beyond them, greater and grander things. 
Flowerrbeauty there is in abundance. As 
we shall see, few have sung more daintily or 
sweetly of flowers, or of the green earth and 
the ever-varying sky. But again and again 
there is an imaginative power of conception 
and expression, that places Dr. Joseph Beau- 
mont far higher than the pretty praise quoted. 

1 Poems, X749 : Introduction, p. xziL I have locked in vain 
for this in Spenoe's Anecdotes, etc., nor have I tracked Pope 
himself in ' Psyche.' In Woodford's Verses on Beaumont— 
prefixed to 1709 ' Psyche'—' Whole in the whole and All in 
every Pftrt' recalls one fiuniliar line in the *£saay on Man.* 



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MEMORIAI^INTRODUCTION. 



XXXVIl 



I proceed to illustrate this. Nor have we 
far to seeL In the very outset you are re- 
minded of ' Paradise Lost/ and that John 
Milton must have been familiar with 
'Psyche/ as, on the other hand, you are 
reminded that our Poet must have known 
John Davies of Hereford's 'Humor's 
Heav'n on Earth,' Phineas Fletcher's 
' Locustae,' and Crashaw's ' Sospetto d' 
Herode' and Epigrams. I would scarcely 
allege, as has been done of ' Paradise Lost,' 
that Satan is the hero of 'Psyche/ but 
urtes the student-reader will be recom- 
pensed, if he master its conception and pre- 
sentation of the supreme 'fallen spirit' Iti 
must be conceded that ever and anon gran- 1 
deur swiftly changes into the grotesque and 
mean ; yet equally are the grotesque and 
mean found as swifUy leaping up into gran- 
deur. That is, if you come on a strong, 
noble metaphor, so built up in its wording 
as to take the type of sculpture — awful and 
awing — ^you are never sure of not having 
some mean accompanying image — like some 
mal-formed gargoyle, and, like it, a mere 
dribbling rain-spout. But then, anon, you 
are thrilled to the marrow by the gargoyle 
being transmuted into a Medusa-head of 
terror, or a fece touched of conquering 
beauty and pathos. Broadly regarded, the i 
Satan of Beaumont is a distinct and original ' 
figure in English poetry. There is not the 
sustained might and masterdom of Milton's 
prodigious conception. Our Poet has too 
profound and passionate a sense of the 
degradation and meanness of sin, wherever 
it is an element, to leave us in doubt of the 
•fallen' nature of 'Psyche's' enemy and 
tempter. Nevertheless, there are touches, 
strokes rather, in the portraiture and the 
action, that reveal the strange fascination 
the * great adversary * had for him. Let the 
Reader take the Satan of ' Psyche ' by him- 
self, and follow him throughout the vast 
poem as a separate study, and I shall be 



disappointed if he be not impressed with its 
singular combination of realism and ima: 
ginativeness. With all this in recollection, 
I turn to ' Psyche ' first, for a * representative 
passage' embodying our Poet's conception 
of Satan. Here is the opening ' vision ' of 
Canto L, 'The Preparative* (st. 7 tost 43). 
It is of considerable length ; but if any one 
deem it by a line too long, I must ask him to 
shut the book and go no further : — 

'. . . He^ \K immortal Prince of equal spightt 

Abhors all Love in every name and kind ; 

But chiefly that which bums with flames as bright 

As his are swarthy, and as endless find 
Their living fuel : These enrage him so, 
That all Hell's Furies must to council go. 

For (as the wounded Lyon frights his Den 
By roaring out his grief ;) his shatter'd heart 
Vomits a hideous groan, which thundring in 
His hollow realm, bellow'd to every part 
The frightful summons : aU the Peers below 
Their King's voice by its sovereign stink did know. 

Nor dar'd they stay their tails vast volumes to 

Abridge into a knot's Epitome ; 

Or trim their hoofs foul cleft with iron shoe. 

Or their snarl'd snakes' confusion unty : 
Only their paws they fill with Rage, and bring 
That desperate subsidy to their mad King. 

HeU*s Court is built deep in a gloomy Vale, 
High wall'd with strong Damnation, moated round 
With flaming Brimstone : full against the Hall 
Roars a burnt bridge of brass : the yards abound 

With all invenom'd Herbs and Trees, more rank 

And fruitless than on Asphaltites bank. 

The Gate, where^rr and smoke the Porters be, ' 

Stands always ope with gaping greedy jaws. 

Hither flock'd all the States of misery ; 

As younger snakes, when their old serpent draws 
Them by a summoning hiss, hast down her throat 
Of patent poison their aw'd selves to shoot. 

The Hall was roof d with everlasting Pride, 
Deep paved with Despair, checker'd with Spigki 
And hanged round with Torments for and wide : 
The front display'd a goodly-dreadful sight. 

Great Satan's Arms stamp'd on an iron shield. 

A Crowned Dragon Gules in sable field. 

There on 's immortal throne of Death they see 
Their mounted Lord; whose left hand proudly held 
His Globe, (for all the world he claims to be 
His proper realm,) whose bloody right did weild 
His mace, on which ten thousand serpents knit, 
With restless madness gnaw'd themselves, and it. 



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MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION. 



His insolent feet all other footstools scom'd 
But what compleatest Scorn to them suggested ; 
This was a Cross; yet not erect, but tum'd 
Peevishly down. The robe which him invested, 
In proud embroidery shew'd that envious Feat 
By which of Paradise he Man did cheat 

His Diadem was neither brass nor rust, 

But monstrous Metal of them both begot ; 

Which millions of viUst Stones imbost, 

\^ precious unto him. since he by that 
Artillery, his fatal batteries had 
On heav'n-beloved Martyrs bodies made. 

His awfiil Horns above his crown did rise, 

And force h\s fiends to shrink in theu-s s his hxst 

Was triply plated Impudence: his Eyes 

Were Hell reflected in a double glass, 
Two Comets staring in their bloody stream, 
Two Beacons boyling in their pitch and flame. 

His Mouth in breadth vy'd with his palace gate, 
And conquer'd it in foot : his tawny Teeth 
Were ragged grown by endless gnashing at 
The dismal Riddle of his living Death : 
His grisly Beard a sing'd confession made 
What fiery breath through his black lips did trade. 

Which as he op'd the Center, on whose back 

His Chair of ever-fretting Pain was set, 

Frighted beside it self began to quake : 

Throughout all Hell the barking Hydras shut 
Their awed mouths : the silent Peers in fear 
Hung down their tails, and on their Lord did stare. 

Three times he shak'd his horns ; three times his Mace 
He bnuidish'd towards heav'n ; three times he spew'd 
Fell sulphur upward : which when on his face 
It soused back, foul Bkisphemy ensu'd. 
So big, so loud, that his huge Mouth was split 
To make full passage to his Rage, and it. 

I yield not yet : Defiance Heav*n, said He, 
And though I cannot reach thee with my fire. 
Yet my unconquer'd Brain shall able be 
To grapple with thee : nor canst thou be higher 
Than my brave Spighi : Know, though bek>w I dwell, 
Heav'n has no stouter Hearts than strut in Hell. 

For all thy vaunting Promise to the seed 
Of dust-begotten Man, my head is here 
Unbroken still : When thy proud foot did tread 
Me down from my own Spheres, my forehead there 
Both met and scom'd the blow : And thou at first 
O^Tjate'r thou talk'st to Man,) didst do thy worst. 

Courage my Lords ; ye are the same, who once 
Ventur'd on that renown'd Design with me 
Agamst the Tyrant call'd Heav'n* s righteous Prince, 
What though Chance stole from us that Victory? 
Twas the first field we fought ; and He being in 
His own Dominion, might more easily win. 



How ofk have We met Him mid-way since then. 
And in th' indifferent world not vainly fought 1 
Forc'd We him not to yield all mortal Men 
At once, but simple Eight? though He'd be thought 
Then to have shown his pow'r, when he was fain 
Basely to drown what he oould not maintain. 

Poor shift I yet make the best on't. stiU the odds 
Is ours ; and that our yelling Captives feel : 
Ours is ^ fiery Deluge, but their God's 
A watery fiood: His scarce had strength to swell 
For some vain months : ours scorns the bounds of age. 
And foams and boils with everlasting nge. 

And let it boil, whilst to the endless shame 
Of our high-bragging Foe, those Prisoners there 
With helpless roars our Victoiy proclaim : 
What nobler Trophies could we wish to rear I 
Are they not Men of the same Flesh and Blood 
With that ihul Christ, who needs would seem a Godf 

A pretty Gmf whom I, sole I, of late 
Caus'd to be fairly hang'd. Tis true he came 
By stealth, and help'd by sly Night, forc'd Hell's gate : 
But snatch'd he any Captive hence, that Fame 
Might speak him valiant? No, he knew too well 
That / VMS King, and you the Peers cfHdL 

Yet to patch up his tatter'd credit. He 

Sneak'd through that Gulf, to baibarous Abraham's den. 

Who for his ready inhumanity 

Was dubb'd the Father qfallfaUhful Men. 
Less, less my Pilate, was thy Crime ; yet Thou 
(O righteous Heav'n /) now yellest here bek>w. 

His willing prises thence he won ; (but how 

Forlorn a Rout, let Ixuarus witness be. 

Who the late pity of vile dogs, was now 

A special Saint :) and this vain victory 
Homeward he bore, with banner proudly spread. 
As if with his own blood t' had not been red. 

Me thinks I could permit him to possess 

That pilfer'd honor, did he now forisear 

My Subjects from their Loyalty to press. 

And lure poor cheated Men his yoke to wear. 
But by my Wrath I swear, I'll make him know 
That I of Earth and Air am Sovereign too. 

Well beat, O my immortal Indignation / 

Thou nobly swdl'st my belldng Soul ; and I 

Success's Omen feel Biave Desperation 

Doth sneaking Pearls objections defy : 
Shall we be tamely damn'd, and new ones bear, 
Because our old Wrongs unrevenged are? 

Was't not enough, against the righteous Law 

Of Primogeniture, to throw us down 

From that bright Home, which all the Worid do's know 

Was by most dear Inheritance our own : 
But, to our shame, Man, that vile Worm must dwell 
In our fahr Orbs, and Heaven with vermin fill? 



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XXXIX 



What tricks, chanus, promises* and mystic Arts, 
What blandishments of foined Dawning things, 
He musters up to woo these silly hearts ! 
Doubtless God-liJu into the field he brings 
This Jugling strength of his Artillery : 
Yet, who, forsooth, the Ttmften are, but we? 

Psyche, a simple thing I wot, and one 
Whom I as deeply soom, as Him I spigfat. 
He seeks to make his prize ; Psyche alone 
Takes up his amorous Thoughts both day and night. 
Were't not our wrong, I could contented be 
Heaven's goodly Prince had such a Spouse as she. 

But she is ours ; I have designed a place 
Due to her vileness in yon brimstone Lake, 
Which shall revenge whatever in her &ce 
Do's now her lusty God a Wooer make. 
He promised her, that with the Angels she 
Should live ; and so she shall ; but those are We. 

We, noble We, who true unto our pure 

Original, disdained to betray 

Our native excellence ; and by demure 

Baseness, in stead of Ruling, to Obey. 
What proof of virtuous bravery could be greater. 
Than U)us to soom ev'n God himself to flatter ? 

But since this God now thinks it fit to fly 
FVom open Force, to his Reserve of Art ; 
Surely 'twill no dishonour be, if I 
Deign to outplay him in his own sly part. 
That all th' amazed World may understsmd 
Our gallant Brain 's as potent as our Hand. 

Lust, thou Shalt give the Onset : quickly dress 
Thy self with every beauteous charm, which my 
Aerial Kingdom yields and subtly press 
Our counterplot : remember but how thy 
Sweet guiles did once a migkiy King subvert. 
However &m'd to be AfUr God's heart. 

Then Pkilauiy and Pride shall stretch her Soul 
With swelling poison, making her disdain 
Heav'n's narrow gate ; whilst Wealth it self doth roll 
Into her bosom in a golden Rain ; 

That she may grow too rich to match with one, 

Of a foor Carpenter the poorer Son, 

Next shall my Secretary Heresy 
Right sagely teach her to become too wise 
To take up points on trust, and fooled be 
By saucy Faith plainly against her eyes. 
Then Persecution's flame shall earnest give 
Of that full fire which she shall here receive. 

If still she tough and stubborn prove, do thou. 
My dear Despair, about her sullen heart 
Millions of black confusions toss, and through 
Her tortnr'd thoughts all Hell aforehand dart 
'TIS my Pmogative, that I can dare 
To build aasured Hepe ev'n on Despair, 



Nor shall this Service due requital want : 
That trusty lucky Fiend who do's the feat, 
Shall wear the Priu he wins, and by my Grant 
Of Charter Royal be confirm 'd the great 

Master rf Psyche's torments ; He, and none 

But he, shall order her Damnation. 

Nay for his greater honor, every night 
With seven full lashes he shall plow the heart 
Of Judas and of Cain ; nor from my sight 
Henceforth on any work shall he depart, 
But here at my right hand Attendant be 
For ever, and Blaspheme the next to me. 

Go then in God's name, but that God am I, 

And here my blessing on you all I deal. 

Catch but this Wench; and by that Victory 

We'll torture Christ more deeply than this Hell 
Doth you or Me, and so revenge the pain 
To which the Tyrant all brave Us doth chain.' 

Even with the ab-eady-named 'Locustae' 
and 'Sospetto d'Herode' before us, there 
are * brave translunary things' there. The 
audacity of some of the sentiments and 
words put into the diabolic lips, is extremely 
noticeable, as coming from one who naturally 
was i///f%i-orthodox, and reverential even to 
superstition and credulity. Every subse- 
quent utterance of Satan is in accord with 
this first presentation of him, albeit.the 
ultimate impression — as stated — ^is of a de- 
teriorated and (so-to-say) putrefying nature. 
There are gleams of primal nobleness ; but 
like the ' collied lightning ' the ethical dark- 
ness is only thereby shewn more porten- 
tous. I must perforce content myself with 
other five ' representative passages ' bearing 
on Satan. The first is the summons of 

* Suspicion' (C. viii. st. 212-219) : — 

* When Lucifer had raked many Dens 
And found nQ Fury who so furious was 
As his new-bru'd Design ; at last he runs 

To this foul sink : where when his sulphury face 
The flashing tokens of his presence threw, 
The rouzed Grot its awful Sultan knew. 

The Boat flew from its chain to meet his feet. 

And waft him over to the/nvy Watch; 

Whose swords fell down, whose hands went up, to greet 

Their Sovereign's coming and to draw the latch. 
Suspicion started as they op'd the door, 
Wondring her Mastiffs barked not before. 



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But dread and awe had stopp'd their mouths ; as now 
They sealed Hers, to see grim Lmciftr: 
She fear'd the worst, and thought that in his brow 
She read some deep-writ lines of spight to her. 

But from his face he wip'd the fire and smoke. 

And with a Kiss's prefooe thus he spoke : 

Afadam, be not afraid, for well I know 
My friends, and thee as best of them esteem ; 
Witness that precious trust my love will now 
Treasure in thee ; it is my Diadem : 

My Diadem is lost if thou dost not 

Procure Destruction to Marys Brat. 

Herod will do his best. I ken him well. 

If aided by thy desperate Inspiration : 

There 's not a heart that lives, where more of Hell 

Hath taken up its earthly habitation. 
O had I store of such Viceroys as He 
To rule my Earth, how Heav'n would baffled be 1 

Yet Herod^s but a Man ; and should he stand 

On foolish points of nice Humanity, 

That Brat, by being such, might scape his hand. 

But if his strength with thine thou backest, He 
Will quickly grow most salvagely complete. 
And bravely venture on the barbarous ftai. 

Nor need'st thou any Maid but Cruelty 
To dress thy Project ; take her then and go : 
Fetch but that Baby-God's heartblood for me, 
And with a Crown I'l raise thy worthy brow. 
Mounting thee on an everburning throne 
Where thou shalt reign Queen of Perditim, 

Glad was the Hagg to hear the business, and 
Promis'd her Lord all develish £uth and care : 
Who clapping on her head his sooty hand. 
Cry'd. take Hell's blessing with thee : O my Dear 
Success attend thy Loyalty and may 
Heav'n's envious Tyrant not disturb thy way.' 

Companion for this is found in C. xxiii. 

St. 99-105 :— 

' As thus she panting lay ; the fretted Prince 
Of restless Envy, who roves night and day. 
Prying about the Worid to gather thence 
Fresh Booties upon which his Wrath may prey ; 
Discover'd her in this disconsolate plight, 
And leap'd for cruel Joy to see the sight 

But as a Coward, who hath oft been beat, 

Yet still on base revengeful hope doth feed, 

Waits opportunity till he may meet 

His fear'd Antagonist empoverished 
In Strength and Spirits by some other Fight, 
And on that Weakness byilds his stoUen Might : 

So now basehearted He that shock forbore 
Till Psyche* s courage he conceived spent : 
And then with prouder Hopes than e'r before 
Down to his damned Home puffd up he went : 



(Fool as he was, to let his hasty Eye 
Such Triumph look before the Victory.) 

Then having climb'd his Throne, and from his face 
Wip'd ofif the coalblack sweat, into a smile 
He forc'd his Cheeks : The/einds admir'd what cause 
Their Kinf^s Austerity could so beguile : 
Yet in compliance every one begun 
To shrivel up his chaps and gently grin. 

When SaioM thus : Hate and Defiance first 
To Heav'n, and then all glory to my Self, 
You know to what expence of Pains that curst 
And though most feeble, yet most stubborn Elf 
Jesus kis Mistress, long hath put me, yet 
On that vile Worm my will I ne'r could get 

But now the feat is done, and wretched she 

Is by her goodly spouse divorc'd, and lies 

To our just Vengeance's severity 

A most abandon'd and devoted Prize. 
I saw her as she lay ; but soom'd to bring 
Her with me : no ; it sutes not with a iCing, 

Not with the King of most keroick Prides- 
Disdain 's the highest Jewel in my Croi»Ti ; 
I who to Heav'n's big Sovereign dcny'd 
To bend my sturdy knee, must not stoop down 
To take up vile Dust : though below I dwell 
In Higkt, the Rising Mom 's my Mother stilL' 

Again : C xi. st. 143-153 : — 

' His red hot iron sceptre Satan here 
Reach'd forth for her to kiss in sign of peace : 
Then smiling on her answering face, Most dear 
Of all my Feinds, said he, my bus'ness is 
The weightyest that my Spight e're undertook. 
Which if it fails, this Sceptre must be broke. 

Thou knowest time was when I and thou, did make 
A brave Adventure in the face of Heav'n, 
When at our Courage all the spheres did quake, 
And God was to his utmost thunder driven ; 

His Throne stood Trembling at our rival Power, 
And had our foot not slipp'd. all had been our. 

But that Mishap 's too sleight and weak to break 
The strength of our immortal Pride : forbid 
It all my Hell, that Belzebub should make 
Truce with that Tyrant who disherited 
Him of his starry Kingdom : No ; I may 
Perchance be beaten, but will ne'r obey. 

I am resolv'd to find Him work as long 

As He, and his Eternity can last ; 

My Spirit never must forget that wrong 

Which me into this hateful Dungeon cast : 
Nor need I fear Him now, since I can be 
But still in Hell, should He still conquer me. 

Full well I know his spight : had any Place 

Been worse than this, he would have damn'd Ut thither : 



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3di 



Yet He, forsooth, must be the God of grace, 

CfFiiy, and if Tenderness the Father: 
And silly Men believe him too ; but We 
More wit have bought than so befool'd to be. 

For be be what he will to Men ; to Us 
' He is a sworn and everlasting Foe. 
And is 't not just. He who maligns Us thus. 
Should find that Devils are immortal too 9 

I would not wrong Him ; yet mine own must I 

Not dip, to save intire bis Majesty. 

My noble Will He never yet subdued, 
And I am now too old to learn to bow : 
Upon my youth his utmost strength He shewed, 
Yet tender though I was, himself doth know 
Ev'n then I yielded not : And shall this fist 
Now brawny grown, the Tyrant not resist ? 

It must and shall : my Confidence beats high : 

For now on evener ground our fight shall be. 

He from steep slippery heav'n is come ; and my 

Footing on earth as sure as His will be. 
Besides, should we miscarry, We are there 
Nearer our hell, and no deep fall can fear. 

Yet that we may unlucky Chance defy. 

Wise Treason must direct our Project's way : 

Lend thou thine aid, and let th' iniquity 

Of Fate or Fortune, if it can, say nay. 
How oft when Rams in vain have push'd the Wall, 
Have canning Underminings made it fall : 

It can be no dishonour now, since He 
Hath in the vile hypocrisy of Dust 
And Ashes, hid his heav'nly Majesty, 
For BeUebub on Fraud to build his trust. 

'Tis true, I scorn to trace his steps ; yet may 

I justly Him in his own Coin repay. 

Come, let 's away : with hate to Christ I bum 
More than with all my kingdom's flames. I swear 
By my bright Mother, th' undefiled Mom 
(A fiEurer ^^xgin than the Carpenter 
Chose when he hew'd out Him ;) by this my Crown, 
And Horns, 1 1 win his blood, or lose mine own.' 

Once more — C xxii. st 25-38 : — 

* When Saian for bis late Repulse could find 
No comfort in his spightfiil Tyranny 
Over his damned Slaves ; his frightful Mind 
Boil'd with such hot Impatience, that He 
Into the Air's cool region again 
Ffaing up himself with terrible Disdain. 

Where, as he champ'd his meditating Rage, 

He dianc'd a winged Squadron to espy, 

Returning home in beauteous equipage, 
^ Having dispatched each his Embassy, 

With which they had been delegated hither 
F^rom Heav'n, to fit our Earth to movnt up thither. 

46 



This prompted him to brew a new Device : 
With cunning q)eed be play'd the Thief again, 
And having stoU'n a Tire of Gallantries, 
After the Angel-troops posted amain ; 

Trimming his cursed feature as he flew. 

Till like a Bird of that fisir Brood he grew. 

Something behind he lagg'd, least piercing They, 

His impudent Imposture should descry, 

And intercept his Project by the way 

In just Disdain of his foul Company. 
So at wise distance sneaks the Traitor, when 
True-hearted Peers to Court he follows in. 

But fluttering through the spheres, his lips he bit 
To see the famous fatal Tract whereby 
He once was tumbled headlong down ; and yet 
Though they with fell Despite and Blasphemy 
Were big. he durst not ope them, knowing well 
Heavn ill would bear the Dialect of Hell, 

Arrived at the Everlasting Gate, 
Into th' imperial Palace of their ICing, 
The well-known Angels in triumphant state 
Their entrance made ; but Sataris foreign Wing 
Shiver'd for fear ; so did the Vizard he 
Had clapp'd upon his Guilt's Deformity. 

For firom the Luster of his Mahet^s eyes ; 

Such Dread flashed on his, that swarthy He, 

Who had been us'd to Night's black Prodigies, 

Was dasel'd at the naked Majesty 
Of more than day: Three times he winck'd. and then 
With both his hands his spurious eyes did screen. 

Such fright the sooty Bats is wont to seize 

When Highnoon's darts of splendor shoot them through : 

The woful Ghosts who in sad shadows please 

Their gloomy Thoughts, thus terrified grow. 

If in the East the curtains ope are thrown. 

And up Aurora get e'r they be down. 

The blessed Spectacles which here he saw 
Were sharper Torments than he felt at home ; 
No Glories* sparkling streams could near him flow. 
But burnt him more than his own Jlery Doom : 

Each holy yoy a Torture was. and He 

Fry'd in the midst of this felicity. 

He fry'd and flam'd, and strait his look's spruce Craft. 
His forged Plumes, his curled Grove of Hair, 
His dainty Coat, and all his gorgeous Theft 
A sacrifice unto the lightning were 

Of Jesus* s Eyes; and in his naked Dress 

He now appear'd of hellish Ugliness. 

The Angels started at the hideous sight. 
And standing at a distance round about, 
Gas'd on the Portent; who with all the might 
Of Impudence, although a while he fought, 

Could not against his guilty shame prevail ; 

Down hung bis Head, his Tallons, and his Tail 



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MEMORIAL'INTRODUCTION. 



Thus when the oonsdous Traitor^s hatefnl face 
U in the presence of the Prince descry'd, 
And persecuted by the joint Disgrace 
Of all the loyal Court ; against that Tide 

Of Ignominy he in vain contends ; 

Such Horror all his Stubbomess transcends. 

As J^esMs saw thejiend, abashed so, 
He charg'd him to confess from whence he came : 
Nor durst the thus commanded Monster, though 
Lyes were his only Trade, a fiction frame : 

Yet loth to loose the credit of his Pride. 

With dogged sullenness he thus reply'd. 

Whence can I come, but from Beneath 9 unless 
You know some higher place than this your Heav'n ? 
This Heav'n, from whence by you, I must confess, 
(But let All judge bow justly) I was driven. 
FVom visiting the Earth I come, where I 
Have far more Subjects than your Deity.' 

Finally — C. xxii. st 55-58 : — 

* As when the Lyon's loos'd to tear his Prey, 
With furious Joy he shakes his dreadful Crest, 
He mounts his surly Tail, and rends his way 
Into the Theatre : so Satan prest 

Back through the Spheres, and thought his Shame 
was cheap 

He suffer'd there, since be his End did reap. 

For his mad Spight's irrefragable Pride 

Would not permit him mannerly to pert : 

He neither bow'd, nor bent, nor signify'd 

The least of Thanks for gaining what his heart 
Did most desire ; but thought he needed not 
Take other leave, who leave to rage had got. 

As down through Heav'n he rush'd, he proudly threw 
Scorn on the Stars which he could not possess : 
Then through the Air imperiously he flew. 
And by his looks proclaim'd that Realm was his ; 
The blackest Clouds which floated there, made haste 
To clear the way, till blacker He was past 

His swarthy Wings lash'd that soft Element 
With violent speed, and made it roar aloud : 
No wind did ever with such furious Bent 
Or hideous Noise, through those mild Regions croud : 
No Bolt of Thunder ever rent iu path 
With such precipitant tumultuous wrath.' 

Beside * swarthy ' Satan, I place now the 

angelic visitant of the maid-mother Mary, 

annunciating the * Holy Child * (Canto vii. 

St. 59-64) :— 

. . . ' A bright and gallant Stranger hither flies : 
One who from heav'n her sweet Reflection brings ; 
And was her Copy, bating but his wings. 

Youth bloomed in his face, the blessed throne 
Where purest Beauties in fair triumph sate : 



A brisk and sparkling Combination 

Of ravishing Joys in either Eye was met : 

His Looks commanded Love, but ugly Lust 

By potent Purity they still represu 

His head was crown'd with its own golden hair. 

Which down his back its dainty riches shed : 

The Alabaster of his neck was bare ; 

Sweetly betraying what below was hid 
In his green ambush of that robe of silk. 
Which gently hover'd or his fleshy milk. 

This robe was garded with the orient lace 
Which trims Aurora's virgin coat : Neglect 
Seem'd to have put it on, yet comely Grace 
Its mcompos'dness curiously deckt. 
And thick in every careless fold and plait 
To catch spectators' wonder lay in wait. 

A silver Girdle with the ready mode 
Of nimble ThiveUers his loins imbraced : 
Like Love's bright Bow his left arm bended stood - 
On his fair side ; his right hand bore, and graced, 
A lily, which by proofs soft, white, and sweet. 
Near kindred claimed with iu dainty seat 

The Candor of his Wings was no such kind 
Of glaring thing as stares in Alpine snow. 
Or in the Cignet's bosom is inshrind. 
Or in Milk's supple streames delights to flow : 
But of a starry tincture, pure and bright, 
Made not by scorching but by whitening light' 

I know not where, outside of 'Paradise 
Lost,' to look for a more radiant portraiture 
than this ; and * Psyche ' is a very gallery of 
such word-portraits and word-scenes, each 
definite and unmistakable, and of cunningest 
colouring. I have glanced forward in order 
to find a contrast with the Satan. I return 
upon the first canto, and so would pass on- 
ward through the successive ones — over- 
passing much, but gleaning sufficient to 
* represent ' the genius of the Poet. I pause 
over * Phylax,* the guardian-angel of * Psyche,* 
fit companion for the angel of the annuncia- 
tion (C. L St 58-61) :— - 

' A Mine of beauU'es in the Symmetry 
Of his all-ravishing aspect sweetly smil'd ; 
Heaven clearly looked out at either eye ; 
His roseal cheeks ten thousand Graces swell'd ; 
As many little Loves their Nests had made 
In the curl'd Amber of his dainty head. 
He from the Rain-bow, as he came that way, 
Borrow'd a Lace of those fair-woven beams 
Which dear Heaven's blubber'd fiioe, and gUd duU 

day; 
And this he sew'd on all his Mantle's seams. 



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xliii 



A Mantle spQn of milky down, which had 
On Birds of his own P&radise been bred. 

Upon his lovely shoulders dwelt a pair 
Of correspondent wings : no driven Snow 
On Seytkian Hills dorst vouch its plumes for fair 
If questioned by Uuse^ which fear no thaw : 
Less white, less soft as they, and will at last 
With melting tears conCess themselves surpast. 

Well did his body's nimble vessel suit 
With those its gallant Oars ; so pliant were 
His goodly timber'd Limbs, and yet so stout, 
That Wax and Steel seem'd kindly marry'd there. 

Hence, tho' he martial were, he lov'd to prove 

Himself the H^arri^r of none bat Z^vr.' 

Again — ^here is * Joseph ' as a pattern of 

'chastity* (C. i. st. 76-79) :— 

. . . 'Thereliv'da KiwMofold 
Almost as young, and no less fair than Thou : 
On his rich Head sroil'd a soft grove of Gold ; 
Two small half Heavens were bent in either brow. 
Nor were those Hemispheres sham'd by his Eyes, 
Which the best Stars above dar'd not despise. 

All Roses blush 'd when near his lips they came. 
Whose purer Crimson, and whose sweeter Breath 
They thought (and well they might) their double shame ; 
No Lilly ever met him in his path, 
But dreading his pure hand, in reverent fright 
Grew pale to see it self outvy'd in white. 

The portly Cedars whose high-mounted pitch 
O'r all the Trees advanc'd them to be Princes, 
Envy'd this stripling's lower stature, which 
Dq^ded their aspiring excellencies : 
The tallest lankness shows not half so high 
In Btautit's scale, as graceful Symmetry, 

Thus tho' compounded all of lovely Charms. 
No wanton mixture did his sweets deflower : 
With gentle gravity his looks he arms ; 
And, as the Heaven is Heaven altho! it lour. 

So are his graces still themselves, tho' He 

Invelop them in serious Chastity.* 

For contrasts, as well as resemblances, 
Beaumont's ' Joseph ' may be compared with 
that other so brilliantly recalled to us by 
Mr. Swinburne. Sir Thomas Salusbury's 
* Joseph ' beside either, is a mere daub. 

Of another kind is * Melancholy ' in her 
*cave* (C. n. st. 162) : — 

. . . • Now those pageant beauties which of late 
Had there trim'd up a Temple for Delight, 
Were all unmask'd ; and Melancholy sate 
Shrouding her hideous self in mid-day night. 

The heavy nodding Trees all languished. 

And ev'ry sleepy bough hung down its head.' 



Equally contrasted again with this is the 
'Queen of Softness and of Purity' (C. 11. 
st ai7): — 

' Behold her face, and read all Paradise, 

And more, in Flesh and Blood : in vain we seek 

By Fiords Jewels to emblematize 

The Gallantly of Her illustrious cheek. 
At whose sweet composition every Grace 
Ran crowding in, for fear to lose its place.' 

There is a fine allegorical quaintness in 

the delineation of the 'illustrious Hall' of 

Chastity (C. iii. st 42-43) : — 

' The lofty Roof of that illustrious Hall 
With Sighs and amorous Languishments was seal'd. 
From whence in most delicious drops did fall 
Down to the floor heartmelting Tears, and yield 

A pearly pavement, which t^e ground's cool kiss 

Into chaste Firmitude did crystallize. 

The Twilight's tears shed in the laps of flowers 
Less gracefully reflect Heav'n's rising Ey, 
When Phoebus lets in the Diurnal Hours 
And trims his face upon the Morning sky ; 
Than these reverberated that fair Look, 
Which from the Virgins entring face they took.' 

Richer and daintier still is the procession 

of the Seasons (C. iv. st 57-65) : — 

. . . ' At an unseen door 
With splendid haste a silver Globe roU'd in. 
Whose sparkling Eyes shew'd it the way to turn 
And wheel from Ev'n through all Uie Night to Mom. 

This done : a dusky Veil she threw aside, 
And through a roseal East let ope the Day: 
Up Titan sprung, and, as the Globe did glide. 
Speeded into the West his golden way ; 
Where, red and hot with his long joumy, He 
Hummed the cool bath of th' Atlantic Sea, 

Then bluster'd in the Winds, on whose broad back 
Rode laboring Clouds ; of which some crumbled Snow, 
Some spit forth Lightnings through a thundering Crack, 
Some with more peaceful show'rs of Rain did flow. 
Some pour'd down monstrous vermin, some a flood 
Of not desired Com, some squeez'd out Blood. 

That Storm blown o'r ; the Spring maT<:h'd forth anUy'd 
With fragrant Green, whose sweet Embroidery 
In blooms and buds of virgin smiles display'd ^ 
A scene of living Joys, all echoed by 
Ten thousand Birds, which, peroh'd on every Tree, 
Tun'd their soft pipes to Nature's harmony. 

Yet underneath, in higher gallantry 
The Peacoch stmtted, whose enamel'd train 
Of the celestial ModeTs bravery 
Bnndish'd her stout and goigeous disdain ; 



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MEMORIAL^INTRODUCTION. 



For that BouFs winking ^s could not express 
So full a proof of heav'n as flam'd in these. 

Summer came next, with her own riches crown'd. 

A wreath of flow'rs upon her goodly head ; 

Large sheaves of ripened gold did her surround, 

And all her way with wholesom Plenty spread ; 
Where as she went, no Tree but reach'd his Arm 
(For it was hot) to shade her head from harm. 

Then foUow'd Autumn, with her bosom full 
Of every fruit which either tempts the Eye 
Or charms the Taste ; here IVaftioness might cull 
And weary grow : here wide-mouth'd Luxury 

Might her own bouHmy devour with more 

Facility, than spend this teeming store. 

At last came drooping Winter slowly on, 
For frost hung heavy on his heels ; the^Azr 
Languish'd in Him, and looked old and wan : 
He quak'd and shiver'd through his triple fur : 

Which way soe'r he works, and strives to creep. 

He 's to the knees in Snow at every step. 

For Sncw was all things now ; and in this WJUte 
The wanton World, which made such jolly sport 
In Autumn's, Summer's, and in Sprinj^s Delight, 
Must (girded up by Ice,) do penance for't : 
This cold, chaste, strait-lac'd garb will best repel 
The iaulu those loose hot Seasons taught to swell' 

Worthy almost of the ' Fairy Queen ' in 
its fantastique of fancies, though lacking its 
music, is Agenor and his company (C. v. 
St 94-103) '— 

* What throngs of meek Ambassadors were there 

From every quarter of the awed Earth, 

BeggiAg the favor of his royal ear 

Upon their Sutes for Peace ; and pouring forth 
The richest Gifts their Countries could afford 
In earnest of their homage to their Lard/ 

Above his Scutcheon hung, In A%ure field 

A Lyon Or, with lightning in his paw; 

The crest was Fame, with cheeks and trumpet swell'd 

And wings display 'd. His throne of Pearl below 
With sparkling earnestness strove to exceed 
The b^ims of those six Steps which to it led 

The first was Plutus, of substantial price ; 
The next Eugenia, in fancy high ; 
Callos the third, the ravisher of eyes ; 
The fourth Andria, swell'd with majesty ; 

The fift P<Bdia, quainter than the rest ; 

Eusehia the sixt. of all the best. 

There sate the Gallant: one whole Diamond made 
His radiant Helmet ; and in wanton pride 
A gorgeous flood of Plumes about it play'd, 
Yet scom'd the kiss of any Wind ; aside 
They wav'd their heads and coyly seem'd to say. 
To every Bkist : Your breath (^ends ; away. 



A stately ManUe's large expansion reach'd 
Down from his wide-spread shoulders to his feet ; 
And cloth'd him with all splendors that are fetch'd, 
From eastern shores, the western Pearls to meet ; 

And by a rich conspiracy of beams 

Epitomize the World's estate of Gems. 

His Sword look'd lightning through its oystal sheath 
Whose round Hilt crowned its victorious Blade 
His mighty Sceptre, circled with a Wreath 
Of bloody Bays, right dreadfully he sway'd. 

The Ball in 's hand was swell'd to that degree 

As if it meant indeed the World to be. 

At 's right hand stood Disdain : tum*d was her Head 
Over her shoulder ; with contemptuous Eye 
Through gloomy frowns, her sullen mind she sgnsA, 
And seeing, scom'd to see, the Company : 
Nor did she mend or mollify her brow. 
But when her Master's growing rough, she saw. 

At 's left stood spruce and gaudy Philauty, 

Whose thoughts dwelt on a crystal book she held 

Eternally, to her admiring Eye ; 

In which her foolish self she read, and smil'd 
On her foir Lesson ; though the brittle Glass 
Admonish'd her how vain her Beauty was. 

Before him, on a golden pillar, — at 

Whose massy foot a Palm and Laurel grew, — 

Upon the back of Triumph, Glory sate ; 

From whose full robes more dazling Lustre flew 
Than breaks from Phcebus' furniture, when he 
Through Cancer rides, in June's high gallantry. 

About him round his whole Retinue was 
Dispos'd in royal equipage : His own 
Attendants had the credit of the place 
Which gUtter'd nearest his illustrious throne ; 

Then with their cheated Leader Thelema 

Stood all the Passions in battalia.* 

It is not going too &r to infer that Collins 
had read and re-read this and other portions 
of ' Psyche.' In his Personifications, I think 
Beaumont mainly copied after John Davies 
of Hereford in his 'Humours Heav'n on 
Earth.'^ Elsewhere (I. Biographical) I have 
felt bound to deplore our Worth/s abject 
Royalism, as onward I confute it Hence 
there is no call for renewed or present pro- 
test against another passionate condenmation 
of the * Commonwealth ' of Cromwell in our 
next quotation. Per se, the portrait of 
Ataxy, ' Desolation's Dame/ is striking, and 

1 See my edn. of his Works (C. W. Libraxy., Mem.-I&trod., 
II. Critical, for notable examples). 



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all the more from its relation to ^Psyche' 
herself in the context I cannot withhold 
the complete passage (C. v. st 188-192) : — 

* What stzange and hideous monsters Kingdoms grow, 
Where Law and Sovereignty^ the life and health 
Of eveiy heaT'n.desoended State must bow 
To vile plebeians' wills I What Commonwealth 
Can jnsdfy iu Name, where Subjects majr 
Command, and Princes dare not but obey 1 

Where FreedowCs Name being thus deflowred, must 
Turn Licence* s bold bawd, and make it free 
Only to be ontngeous and mjust 1 
Where l>esoUUw»*s Dame, foul Ataxy, 

As beauteous Mother of establish'd Bliss 

And public Happiness, admired is. 

No Hydra's shape so shapeless is as this 
Wbidi throws the world back to iu breeding Heap ; 
The hideous Chaos of Preposterousness 
That tumbles all Things in one monstrous Deep, 
And, envying the fiEurly-form'd Creation 
Disjoints and scatters it quite out of iashion. 

Yet retchless Psyche is content to see 

This horrid Solsedsm in her own breast ; 

And thinks her Sceptre and her self more free 

Then when obedience did her Subjects cast 
Low at the feet of all her Mandates, and 
Her Empire's hehn knew none but her own hand. 

The silly Rose delighteth thus to be 

Drest in her fiuicst looks and best attire. 

When round about a churlish company 

Of Thorns against her tenderness conspire : 
That dangerous siege of pikes with smiles she greets, 
Ne'r dreaming they design to choke her sweets.' 

Superb beyond any words of mine to ex- 
pressy declarative in my deliberate judgment 
of absolute imaginative genius, is the next 
impersonation to be introduced, viz., Syn- 
eidesis or Conscience. The penultimate 
stanza is surely surpassingly magnificent, and 
recalls to one the eyed ceilings of temples in 
£gypt| wherein you cannot get away from 
the searching open-lidded eyes (C. v. si. 
223-227) : — 

* When lo Symeidesis, who all this whUe 

Her Qtteen had in a silent comer watch'd, 

Accosts her m an unexpected stile : 

For. strict hold on her shoulder having catch'd, 
What means this haste? hers is another Glass, 
Said she, for you to view before you pass. 

Behold these Eyes of mine ; a Mbror where 
Lurks no Deceit, nor Charm, nor flattery : 



lYue Psyche you are here, and only here 

In this Reflection of Verity. 
I never yet abused You : and why 
Must that false Glass be trusted, and not I ? 

With indignation Psyche tum'd her head, 

And left scorn for Syneidesis ; but she 

Who knew not to be daunted, followed 

Her eye with loyal importunity, 
And made her see, in spight of her Disdain, 
That Omscience never shews her face in vain. 

The Passions wonder'd at her boldness : but 
She is a Witch, hnpatient Psyche cries, 
And all inchantment's powers and tricks are met 
In those broad Mirrors of her monstrous eyes ; 
Which so environ mine, that there 's no gap 
Where from their conjuring Circles I may scape. 

Behold how gross a Ly of Ugliness 
They on my face have tlireaped, to out&ce 
The truth of all those beauteous lines which dress 
My royal Looks with prince-becoming grace. 

Surely myself I would upon myself 

Revenge, were I indeed so foul an Elf.' 

The Cave of Oblivion and its inmates 
need fear comparison with scarcely anything 
in either Phineas Fletcher's * Purple Island/ 
or Giles Fletcher's * Christ's Victorie ' (C vi. 
St. 194-202) : — 

[Pity] ' strait started through the earth 
Down to the silent mouth of that dark Cave 
Where Sorrows find their sink, and Cares their grave. 

A lasy Moat the Grot incompassed 
With waters which were never known to stir ,* 
Upon whose bank secure Oblivion's bed 
Was made of sluggish Moss and caked fiir ; 
The Remoras and Crampfish groping lay 
About the bottom of the Mud and Clay. 

Up from the Water crept an heavy Cloud 
Of dusky Vapours, on whose shoulders rid 
Fat Drowsines; who mb'd her eyes and bow'd 
Down to her bosom her unweildy head. 
Bats, Owles, and other purblind birds of night 
Stole through the swarthy shades their doubtful flight. 

Mandrakes within the Moat, and Poppy grew, 
Which nodded to their neighbour dump of Tbees : 
Those were the Willow. Cypress, Box, and Yew ; 
Qose at whose feet lay Quietness and Ease ; 
And nestling by their side, an half-dead crow'd 
Of Dormise and of Bears, all snorting loud. 

Through these pass'd Pity to a door of Jet, 
Whose wary ringle round was doth'd in wool : 
The porter Siience, with his finger at 
His mouth ; when by her looks he guess'd her full 

Of more than common busmess with his Queen 

Softly stole ope the lock, and let her in. 



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xivi 



MEMORIAL^JNTRODUCTION. 



There found she on a bed of ebony 
Slup lay'd at length ; her piUow, badgers' hair ; 
Thick Night, full Peace, and soft Security 
Her rug. her counterpane, and blankets were. 

Close by her couch's side drop'd pipes of lead ; 

A swarm of Bees were humming at the head. 

But greater was the swarm of Dreams which walk'd 

In shapeless shapes about the thronged room ; 

Who though they laugh'd, and sung, and cry'd, and 
talk'd. 

No noise was heard in that confusion : some 
Wanted an head, a cheek, an eye, a nose, 
Some arras, some legs, some feet, and some their toes. 

Some wanton seem'd. some chast, some spruce, some 

course; 
Some tame, some terrible, some black, some white ; 
Some Men before, and yet behind a Horse ; 
Some Swan on one side, on the other Kite ; 
Some Love, some Hate, some Half-hope and Half-fear ; 
Some heav'n. some hell, some both ; most monsters 
were. 

Indeed a few, who sleighted all the rest. 

Were Um'd and form'd by due Proportion's art ; 

With sober gravity their looks were drest ; 

Deep wonderous thoughts were hatching in their heart ; 

Sharp was their sight, and further could descry 

Than any Eagle's Sun-affronting eye.' 

There are perchance over-multiplied de- 
tails — our Poet's weakness being not to 
know when to stop — yet are there exquisite 
touches in his *Eve' (C. vi. st. 221-235) ; — 

' Eve, Topstone of the goodly-fram'd Creation, 
The Bliss of Adam and the Crown of Nature; 
Eve, who enjoys the most removed station 
From ugly Chaos ; Eve ihaX final Creature, 
In whom th' Almighty Lord set up his rest. 
And only spar'd to say He 'd done his best. 

Her spatious polish'd forehead was the fair 
And lovely Plain, where gentle Majesty 
Walk'd in delicious state : her temples clear 
Pomgranate fragments, which rejoyc'd to lie 
In dainty ambush, and peep through their cover 
Of amber-locks, whose volumes curled over. 

The fuller stream of her luxuriant Hair 

Pour'd down itself upon her ivory back : 

In which soft flood ten thousand Graces were 

Sporting and dallying with every Lock ; 
The rival Winds for kisses fell to fight. 
And rais'd a ruffling tempest of Delight. 

Two princely Arches of most equal measures 
Held up the Canopy above her eyes ; 
And open'd to the heav'ns far richer Treasures. 
Than with their Stars or Sun e'r leam'd to rise : 

Those beams can ravish but the Bodie's sight. 

These dazel stoutest Souls with mystic light. 



Two Garrisons were these of conquering LQV<e, 
Two founts of Life, of Spirit, of Joy, of Grace ; 
Two Easts in one fair Heav'ns no more above, 
But in the hemisphere of her own &ce ; 

Two Thrones of Gallantry ; two shops of miracles ; 

Two shrines of Deities ; two silent Orades. 

For silence here could eloquently plead ; 

Here nugfat the unseen Soul be clearly read ; 

Tliough gentle Humours their mild miztore made. 

They prov'd a double Buning'^kiss ; which shed 
Those living flames whidi with enlivening Darts 
Shoot deaths of love into Spectators' hearts. 

'Twixt these an alabaster Promontory 
Slop'd gently down to part each Cheek firom other ; 
Where White and Eed strove for the fiidrer glory, 
Blending in sweet confusion together. 

The Rose and Lily never joined were 

In so Divine a marriage as there. 

Couchant upon these precious Cushonets 
Were thousand Beauties and as many Smiles ; 
Chaste Blandishmonts, and modest cooling Heats, 
Harmless Temptations, and honest Guiles. 

For heav'n, though up betimes the Maid to deck. 

Ne'r made Aurora's cheeks so £air and sleek. 

Inamoring Neatness, Softness, Pleasure, at 
Her gracious Mouth in full retinue stood : 
For, next the Eyes' bright Glass, the Soul at that 
Takes most delight to look and walk abroad. 
But at her lips two threds of scarlat lay, 
Or two warm Corrals, to adorn the way ; 

The precious Way, where by her breath and tongue 
Her Odours and her Honey travelled ; 
Which nicest Criticks would have judg'd among 
Arabian or Hyblcean mountains bred. 

Indeed the richer Araby in her 

Dear mouth, and sweeter Hybla dwelling were. 

More gracefully its golden Chapiter 
No Column of white Marble e'r sustain'd ; 
Than her round polish'd Neck supported her 
Illustrious head, which there in triumph reign'd. 

Yet neither would this Pillar hardness know. 

Nor suffer Cold to dwell amongst its Snow. 

Her blessed Bosom moderately rose 
With two soft Mounts of Lilies ; whose Calr top 
A pair of pritty sister Cherrys chose, 
And there their living Crimson lifted up. 
The milky count'nance of the Hills confest 
What kind of Springs vrithin had made their nest 

So leggiadrous were her snowy Hands, 
That Pleasure mov'd as any finger stirr'd : 
Her virgin waxen Arms were predous Bands 
And chains of Love : Her waste itself did gird 

With its own graceful Slendemess, and ty 

Up Delicacy's best Epitomy. 



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xlvii 



Fair FoHimr^ walk'd all fa€r body over, 

And Symwuiry rejoyc'd in every Part ; 

Soft and white SwHinea was her native Cover ; 

Fhm every Member Beatiiy shot a dart : 
From heaVn to earth, firom head to foot I mean, 
No blemish could by Envy's self be seen. 

Tliis was the first-born Qitum ofGalUniry : 

AH Gems compounded into one rich Stone, 

AH sweets knit into one conspbacy, 

A constellation of all Stars in one ; 
Who when she was presented to their view 
Both Paradise and Nature dasd'd grew.' 

On the same lines is the welcome given to 

Eve by all creation (C. vi. st. 236-241) : — 

' Phoebus who rode in glorious Scorn's carreer 
About the worid. no sooner spy'd her face, 
Bat Cain he would have linger'd, from hb sphere 
On this, though less yet sweeter, Heav'n, to gase : 
TOl shame inforc'd him to lash on again. 
And clearer wash him in the western Main. 

The smiling Air was tickled with his high 

IVerogative of uncontrolled Bliss ; 

Imbradng with intirest liberty 

A Body soft and sweet and chaste as his. 
All odorous Gales that had but strength to stir 
Came flocking in to beg Perfumes of Her. 

The Marygold her garish Love forgot, 
And tum'd her homage to these fairer Eyes f 
All flowers kx>k'd up, and dutiftilly shot 
Their wonder hither, whence they saw arise 

Unparching courteous Lustre^ which instead 

Of fire, soft joy's irmdiations spred. 

The sturdiest Trees affected by her dear 
Delightful presence could not choose but melt 
At their hard pith : whilst all the Birds whose clear 
Pipes tossed Mirth about the branches, felt 
The influence of her looks ; for having let. 
Their Song foU down, their Eyes on her they set. 

And willingly their proudest plumes and wings 
FoUow'd their Song : for in her Person they 
With fix'd intention read more glorious things 
Than all their gorgeous feathers could display, 
And were content no more the Name to wear 
Oi Birds of Paradise, now she was there. 

But when she mov'd her feet, the joyful Earth 

Greatfully rous'd her best fertility, 

And by a brisk extemporary birth 

Of Flowers and Spices, strove to testify 
What carpet's pomp was requisite to make 
The passage fit where Beauty was to walk.' 

Y Beyond all doubt Milton studied the suc- 
ceeding delineation of the ' first pair ' in their 
wedded bliss (1^. st 243-248). I place two 
etchings of *Envy' together (C. vi. st 253-257 



and C. XL st. i-ii), the second ennobling the 

grotesque, of which in the outset note was 

taken : — 

' How great a Feast, and earnest iuTitation 
Was this for Envy ; whose ambitious taste 
Disdains all Fair but in the noblest Hashion ; 
Whose Jaws of greedy Iron stand agast 
At no encounter, but with restless spight 
Against the most confirmed Champion's fight ! 

Her Palace seated in the heart of hell. 
Is built of Cankers, Rust, and Vipers' tongues ; 
Her cursed Throne is mounted on the fell 
And boiling breast of Satan ; which she stings 

With ever-fretful rage, and makes him run 

About the wild work of Damnation. 

To Paradise he rush'd, and brought his Hell 
Into that earthly Heav'n, whose dwellers he 
With anxious eye survey'd and mark'd, until 
A Creature brisk and spruce he chanc'd to see 
Upon a bank of floury pleasures spred, 
But for more sweet and beauteous than its bed. 

It was the Serpent, whose illustrious skin 
Play'd with the Sun and sent him back his beams 
With glorious use : that Wealth, which glisters in 
The proudest strand of oriental Streams, 
Salutes Aurora's cheek with fewer raies 
Than this bright robe did all heav'n's highnoon face. 

His sharpset Eyes sparkled with nimble flames, 
The light by which his active Soul was read : 
Wisdom and Art, with all their plots and frames 
Chose their chief shop in his judicious head. 

Above his fellows on Craft's wings he flew ; 

All Beasts but he to that dull Name were true.' 



' Envy, thou rankling Bane of Quietness, 
And of thy Self; what makes thy Rage so Mad 
To play the Canker in all kind of Bliss, 
And on thine own Vexation live 1 A Rod 
To thine own wretched back, most peevish Elf 
No less than to the World's, thou mak'st thy self. 

All other Monsters are content to spare 
Themselves, and only feast upon their Prey : 
But whensoe'r thy Prizes fattest are, 
Thou pinest most ; and find'st a cursed way 
Strangely to fast in riot, and to grow 
Leanest when Plenty's streams about thee flow. 

In thy mischievous womb was Discord bred. 
The correspondent Brat of such a Dame ; 
A Brook which well becomes its Fountain head, 
And can with equal genuine poison stream ; 
A Brook which round about the tainted Worid 
Its arms pernicious Embrace hath hurl'd. 



This is that fatal and destructive Jar 
Which frets and interrupts the Harmony 



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xlviii 



MEMORIAL^INTRODUCTION. 



Wherdn all different Things concenter'd were 
By peaceful Nature's sweet and sacred Ty : 
That Jar which in Times nonage belk'd and beat 
So high, that ope to War the way it set. 

To War, that foulest fiercest Sum of all 

The worst of Hell : fell BelMebvb at first 

Begot the Monster of his own proud Gall. 

From whence in Heav'n unhappily it burst : 
A Birth-place how unfit for such a Birth 1 
And well it was that Heav'n strait cast it forth I 

Heav'n cast it forth : but Hell reodv'd the Brai, 
And hug'd it close, and nurst. and kept it warm : 
Fed there with fire and blood, it soon grew fat 
And strong enough to raise a desperate stonn 
In his black Nursury, whose rampant Revels 
In wild confusion tumbled all the Devils. 

When Satan saw his mad Activity. 

With hellish joy he kiss'd his genuine Son ; 

And as he kick'd his Father's Courtesy, 

And scratch'd his kissing lips ; this Sign alone 
Dear Child, cry'd He, sufficient is to prove 
Thou art my Issue, and deserv'st my love. 

Then from his own viperous Tk-esses He 

Pluck'd three large handfuls of his longest Snakes^ 

Of which, with pois'nous liberality, 

A favour for his darling Child he makes ; 

Who ever since in frightful triumph wears 

The hissing Discord all about his ears. 

He thus adom'd without, and stor'd within 

With sutable desires : a fiill Commission 

Sole General to be of every Sin^ 

Of all Confusiont and of all Perdition 
His Father grants him ; and then sends him forth 
To try what ruins he could work on Earth. 

(The cunning Serpent lov'd his Hole too well 

To suffer desperate H^ar to harbour there ; 

He knew that ev'n in his own Realm of Hell 

Division would the joints and cement tear. 
Which in obedience to his sovereign Pride 
The Peers and Commons of Damnation ty'd.) 7 

As through the bowels of deep Tellus He 

Rent ope his way, amazed Nature shook, 

Afifrighted Quiet and Serenity 

Their ardent flight to Heav'n for shelter took : 
Leaving behind an universal Groan : 
Through all the World such fatal Terror ran.* 

There is an odd originality, a unique un- 
expectedness of putting things, in this of 
•Sleep and Dreams' (C viii. st 8-13) : — 

. . . ' other Creatures h'ttle find in Sleep 

But that dull pleasure of a gloomy Rest, 

Which they themselves perceive not when they reap ; 

Man by this fiiller privilege is blest, 
That Sleep itself can be awake to him. 
And entertain him with some courteous Dream. 



He, when his Touch, his Tongue, his Eye, his Ear, 
His Nose, in Sleep's thick night are muffled up ; 
Can feel» can taste, can smell, can see, can hear. 
And in his quick Dispatches meet less stop 
Than when he wakes ; for now his Soul akme 
Can through his mystick business Irsely run. 

O sweet Prerogative 1 by which we may 

Upon our pillows travel round about 

The Universe, and turn our work to play ; 

Whilst every joumy is no more but thought* 
And every thought flies with as quick a pace i 
Quite through its longest, as its shortest race. 

No outward Objects' importuning Rout 
Intrudes on sprightful fiincie's operations ; 
Who, Queen in her own orb, atchieves with stout 
Freedom her strange extemporal Creations ; 
And scorning Contradiction's laws, at eaaa 
Of nothing, makes what Worlds her self doth please. 

Nor is the Body more befriended than 
The Soul, in sound Digestion's work, by SUop .- 
This is the undisturbed Season when 
The Mind has leasure to concoct that heap 
Of crude unsetled Notions, which fill 
The troubled brain's surcharged ventricle. 

In this soft Calm, when all alone the Heart 
Walks through the shades of iu own silent breast, 
Neav'n takes delight to meet it, and impart 
Those blessed Visions which pose the best 

Of waking eyes ; whose day is quench'd with ni^t 

At all spiritual Appiration's sight.' 

With kindred characteristics is 'Sleep* in 
its association with the 'Holy Child' and 
the poor, expatiated on (C. viii. st 15-17): — 
' Marvel not how this Manger could agree 
With that most tender /n/anfs dainty bead : 
For by this copy He commends to thee 
The scorn of Wantonesse's plumy bed. 
Thou seest sweet Sleep is possible upon 
A cold and churlish couch of board or stone. 
'Tis not the flatt'ry of fine things without. 
Which can with genuine softness doth thy Rest. 
Down proves but precious thoms» and silk doth flout 
His hopes of quiet sleep ; whose treacheroos breast. 
Though with external unguents sleek» within 
Is harsh and rugged, being lin'd with Sin. 
The honest Plowman in the simple straw, 
Which fiimish'd his first board, and now his bed ; 
Reaps solid savory Rest, and steeps his brow 
In deepest Ease : whilst though the Tyrant's bead 
Be laid m Delicacy's softest lap. 
By knawing fears and cares 'tis plowed up.* 

In incidental Ms if not substantively, 
'Suspicion' and her company are personi- 
fied with the same power and vividness as 
' Conscience ' before (C. viii. st. 195-304) : — 



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... * In that House, so dtak and so profound. 
That fiur and high U made the rest of Hell ; 
A Thing O how much mote than Monster, drown'd 
Yet deeper in self-torturings, chose to dweU. 

One who espous'd Disquiet for her Rest. 

One who aUfmrut is to her own breast. 

5am»^MiiV her just name; thick set 's her head 
With thoughtful Eyes, whidi always learing seem 
And always ghastly ; for they trust no Lid 
To interpose twist Lassitude and them. 
On siiep they look as <m some treacherous thing 
Hatching blind Dangers under his black wing. 

But prindpaOy they at one another 
Their annous and misgiving ghmees throw ; 
And if no grounds of fear they thence can gather 
Of deeper Dangers therefore fearful grow. 
Yet whilst they all thus mutually stare. 
Each bids his brother of hhnself beware. 

Her sharp thin ears stand always prick'd upright, 
To catdi all Sounds and Whispers that come near. 
Sometimes as her own Fancy took iu flight 
But through her head, she thought some Noise wasthere. 
Her hollow Cheeks had gaped long for meat. 
But doubts and fears forbad her still to eat 

She dream'd in every Dish and Cup she saw 
Some slie and deadly Poison's Ambushment. 
Alas, and how could any venome grow 
. So venomous as she, who might have lent 

New power to Dragons' stings, and taught each field 
Of Tktssafy crops of surer bane to yield. 

Impenetrable Steel her Garments were, 

AH of the temper of great .Stfi^Mi'j shield ; 

Her hands alhrmfid by perpetual fear 

A mighty Sword and biasen Buckler held : 
Weapons with which she never duist intend 
To fight, but only her own head defend. 

Fast stood her Chahr on forty htm feet. 
And to the ground all donUe nail'd ; yet she 
Could not bdieve hut underneath her seat 
Some treasonable mine might lurldng be. 
This made her seUom sit ; and when she did. 
Over her shoulder still she tum'd her head. 

No morning paas*d but some on woA she set 
New Keys to make her ; being jealous still 
Her foes might patterns of her old ones get ; 
And twenty times as mudi she chang'd her Seal : 

As her own self she would have done, had she 

Known how to alter her Deformity. 

Whh cootnulicting thoughts her brain was beat. 
Which were no sooner liked but rejected : 
She weigh'd and boulted every Connvil, yet 
What surest seem'd to be she roost suspected. 

Oft would she skip* and fling about, and start. 

And meeriy at the motion of her heart 

46 



Ten times an hour her Pulse she duly try'd, 
Doubting as often wliat its working ment : 
Somethnes she thought she felt too high a Tide, 
Sometimes too low an Ebb of blood : Content 

She never was, yet sought no Physick's aid. 

Of Sickness and of Cure alike afiaid.' 

Of co-equal noticeableness is the ' house- 
hold' of 'Suspicion/ which again Collins 
must have remembered {ibid, st 205-211): — 

* An Oath of strict AUegianoe thrice a day 
She forced on her numerous Family ; 
And weekly chang'd their Offices, that they 
Might have no time to ripen Treachery. 

Strange Ofictrs, yet fitting to attend 

So sovereignly-odious a Fiend. 

The first was tall and big-bon'd Cowardiu 
Whose lazy neck on her fat shoulders lay ; 
Her gross head saeen'd by both her hands ; her ejres 
Horribly winking, at the dint of Day ; 

Her ears as flat as dread could lay its prise ; 

Her sneaking tail hid 'twizt her shivering thighs. 

The next, stem Cruelty supported by 

AdvoHtage and Revenge; prime Enginere 

To all the Generals of Tyranny. 

What Whips, what Racks, her USi inventions were, 
What broad Peifidiousness, what groundless Wars, 
What Insultations, and what Massacres 1 

Close in the comer stood pale Thcugktfulness, 
Seald on whose lips regardless Silence sate : 
Her business was a thousand things to guess ; 
She stamp'd, her bead she scnitch'd. her breast she beat. 
Her wearied eyes she nailed to the ground. 
And in her endless self her self she drown'd. 

About the room ran furious Discontent, 
And when all other scap'd her causeless war. 
She wag'd it with her self ; her cloaths she rent. 
Her cheeks she gash'd. and madly tore her hair. 
But Malice slyly crept, and dealt her spight 
To friends and foes in a concealed fight. 

Yet slippery Gtnle was nimbler then the rest. 

Whose quaint attire was of Chamelions' sUns ; 

Who in two minutes could become at least 

An hundred Virtnes, and as many Sins: 
She Polyfms in feet outvy'd, and was 
Fortune*! true Echo, Proteus* Looking-^lass. 

Her mate was complemental jfoAkrpr, 

Whose mouth's rich mine bred more than golden words ; 

Her hand she always kiss'd, and bent her knee. 

Whilst in her mantle lurk'd two pois'ned swords. 
These were the courtiers, and of their condition 
A thousand more who waited on Suspicion,' 

Next comes the swift and awfiil obedience 
of 'Suspicion/ which is told with a strange 
quur strength (C. viil st 220-222) : — 



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' Forthwith her path through AspkaiiUi$ LaU 

She tore, and in the middle boyled up : 

The sulphure trembled, and the banks did shake, 

Down to the bouom fled the frighted top ; 
That most victorious Stink which till to day 
Dwelt there, her stronger Breath blew quite away. 

Deep Horror all the Elements did seize. 

And taught the rest, as well as Earth, to quake. 

Blasting deflour'd the Meadows and the Trees ; 

Her noise made Ghosts of thousand Witches wake. 
Ill-boding Nightrav'ns croke, shrill Scritchowls squeak, 
Hogs whine, dogs houl. Snakes hiss, and mandrakes 
shriek. 

Men, Beasu, and Birds fled from her frightful &ce ; 
And Heav'n it self would fain have run away 
Had it but known to what retiring place 
Its now too vast Expansions to convey. 

Yet PkAtu made a shift to lurk and croud 

His eyes behind the curtain of a cloud.' 

'Famine' and her companions in the 
temptation of the Lord, is another fundamen- 
tally original set of personifications (C. ix. 
St 39 and st. 56-72) : — 

'Just at the word the Hag appear'd, with Look 
More keen than January's breath ; or than 
Revenges visage ; or the piercing stroke 
Of barbarous North-begotten Boreas^ when 
He his most massy chains of Ice hath hurl'd 
O'r Sea and Land, and stupify'd the World. 

Thret /lends of choisest Power and Spight there are 

Whom dared Vengeance sends to kuh the Earth ; 

The hidden Pestilence^ wide open War; 

And/amin, this fell Hag, whose Drought and Dearth 
Bum with more Poison than the Plague, and kill 
With sharper woimds than War's relentless steel. 

This is that Engine which breaks ope its way 
Through flesh and bone, and riots in the heart ; 
Yet leaves all whole, that so her fury may 
Mock whom it tortures, and by cruel art 

Seem to forbear all Violence, whilst she 

Wakes Ruin by her silent Battery. 

That living Death by which unhappy Man 

Is forc'd himself his funeral to begin ; 

Whilst past hope's sphere he wanders faint and wan 

Wrapp'd in the winding-sheet of his pale skin, 

And seeks his grave through whose cool door he may 

Into a milder Death himself convey. 

That peerless Tyrant, whose impatience hath 

No possibility her prise to spare ; 

The dire Dispenser of the Dregs of Wrath ; 

Of Torments Queen ; the Empress of Despair ; 
That eenigmatick foe, whose Ammunition 
Is nothing else but want of all Provision. 



Expect not to behold her fiunily. 

Or what Retinue on her court attends : 

No Servant ever strong enough could be 

To bear her presence, much less her Commands ; 

Being assur'd they never should her will 

Unless her Bdly too they could fulfill. 

Indeed dry Languiskment, pale Gkasifyness, 

Cold Desolation^ her Handmaids be : 

But of an essence so jejune are these, 

That in her company deserted She 
Nothing but nothing meets, or, what is worse, 
The vsreUhedfulntss of an empty Curse, 

But yonder Table which is hung so high 
Above her Cavern's door will tell thee what 
Were her exploits When Mercy passed by 
This monitory sign she fixed, that 
Mortals might learn ythaXJlend was kennell'd here. 
And of this Den of greedy Death beware. 

Lo what a smoaking Hiu-lyburly 's there 
Of gallant Roins tumbling on the ground. 
These once high-built and goodly Cities were. 
Which when War's mighty Ram could not confound, 
^ This Hag with no Pikaxes but her own 
Fierce Teeth, min'd all the vraUs and tore them down. 

See there she chaseth frogs, and rats and mice, 
And hunts the dogs themselves ; ambitions by 
These strangely-predous Dahities to suffice 
The loud Demands of her stem Boulimy. 
Discretely there the prudent Painter has 
The Earth of Iron made, and Heav'n of Brass. 

But there her Girdle and her shoes she eats 
For that acquaintance which they had of old 
With Beef and Muttcm and such dassick MeaU : 
There out she turns the silly useless Gold, 
And clapping on its poverty a curse, 
A savory Meal she maketh of her Purse. 

She rouses there the sleeping mire, and by 
A strict examination makes it tell 
What hidden treasures in its bosom lie ; 
Nor is she daunted by the unlikely shell. 

But ransacks still, and finds the gem within ; 

For she the Oyster first fish'd out for Men. 

The Dunghill there she rakes, and pries for fresh 
Strong-scented Excrements ; right glad when she 
By lucky search achieves so rare a Dish 
Which needs, being reeking hot, no cookery. 

That Glass in which she drinks, and drinks up 

No other is but her own UrinaL 

Her Jaws against that Fort of stone she try'd, 
When once she was inunur'd in streights : and see 
How she compell'4 and tore Success; those wide 
And ragged holes, her Tusks stout breaches be : 
Her hasty boistrous Stomach would not stay. 
And wanting other food, she eat her way. 



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That heap of Bones is all her Rage has left 
Of her own Parents, whose dear flesh she made 
Her barbaioos feast, and them of life bereft 
By whom she fiv'd ; such is the salvage trade 
Of desperate Vipers, who their fuiy fiuten 
Ev'n on the Womb in which they were b^otten. 

And yet no Vipers ventmv to dercmr 
Their proper Brood ; 'tis Nature' s strictest Law, 
That with Traduction Love should join her power. 
And like the Rivers, downJiill stroi^;est flow ; 
Only this Fiend all Vipers dares excuse. 
And in her Children's blood her teeth imbrues. 

For those bemangled Limbs which scatter'd be 
About the Picture's verge, the ruins are 
Of seav'n unloved lovely Babes, vriuch she 
Feared not with her remorseless daws to tear. 
And back into her bowels force ; if yet 
She any bowels had, who thus could eat. 

This Comprdiension of aO Portents, this 
Most despicable, starv'd, but potent Hag^ 
Was that bold Combatant whom Desperateness 
Clapp'd on the back, embraving to a brag 
And jolly confidence that mortal Might 
Could never with her Teeth maintain a fight.* 

'Jesus' in the midst of the 'wild beasts' 
in the wilderness, must not be over-passed 
(C. IX. st iaa-126) : — 

. . . 'When on TE^t/*/ face they try'd their Eyes, 
No blur or sign of guHt they could descry : 
His kx>ks were purer than the viigin skies, 
Pobsh'd with Beauty's best serenity, 
Airay'd with princely Stateliness, and digbt 
With Love, with Life, with Grace, and Royal light 

This wak'd those ancient seeds of Memory, 
Whidi prudent Nature in their hearts had set ; 
And which by wise Instinct did signify 
That their unspotted Monarch they had met 
They had indeed ; for this was Adam too : 
Alas that Beasts much more than Men should know 1 

Men knew him not ; but Beasts distinctly read 
In him the Protoplasts aO-gnceftil feature : 
Such were the gallant GUories of his Head ; 
Such was the goodly measure of his Stature : 
S«ch were the reverend Innocende's beams 
Which fix>m hisflaming Eyes pour'd pleasare's streams. 

Sodi radiant awfnlness Men fimcy in 
Th' apparent heirs of earthly Kingdoms, that 
They think the iTs'i^ ^.fito^ by royal Idn 
To their condition gpoweth courteous at 

Their right, and quite foigets his cruel sense 

Of being Salvagsness's dreadful Prince. 

What wonder than if thus it happen*d now 
The mighty only Heircf Hetnfn was here ; 



He. for whose high and best-deserving Brow 
Eternity was busy'd to prepare 

That Sun-outshining Crown, which flaming is 

Upon his Incarnation's lowliness t' 

I would now group together certain addi- 
tional 'representative passages' that may 
safely be left to witness for themselves of our 
Poef 8 faculty. I have ventured to give a 
heading to each. 

z. The Sun and Day, 

' O happy ye, stout Ba^, happy ye, 

Whose pure and genuine eyes are te mp ered 

To that brave Vigor, that the Majesty 

Of your beloved Sun can never shed 
Such bright extremities efHeav'n, but you 
Can drink them in as last as they can flow : 

You perch'd on some safe Rock can sit and see 
How when the East unlocks his ruby gate. 
From rich Auroras bed of Roses He 
SwveUr than it doth rise ; what Robe of state 
That day Ne deigns to guild, what Tire of light 
Heoalds temples binds there to grow bright. 

Not one of those brisk Eyes with which by night 

HeaVn looks so big and glorious, but at 

The mighty dint ev'n of his dawning light 

lu conquer'd and abashed sdf doth shut 
Tis your prerogative alone to bear 
That Splendor's stroke which dazles every Star. 

Into his Chariot of flaming gold 
You see him mount, and give his purple steeds 
Leave to draw out the Day : you see him roU'd 
Upon his (fiamond Wheels, whose bounty breeds 
That g o rg e ous Famify of Pearls, which dwells 
On eastern shores in their fiur Mother-shells. 

Yon see him dimb Heav'n's highest sDver hill, 
And through cross Cancer make the Hours run right. 
There with his widest looks your own you fill. 
And riot in that royal feast of light ; 

Whilst to your eyes your souls fly up and gate 

On every Beauty of his high-noon feoe. 

Yon see Him till into the steep-down West 
He throws his course, and in th' Atlantick Deep 
Washes the sweat from his fair brow and breast 
And cool his smoaking steeds, and yidds to sleep 
Among the watry Nymphs, who in his rest 
Waft him through by-paths back into his East ' 
(C. m. st 9-14.) 

a. Baptism of Chsist in Jordan, 
. . . 'ambiguous He 
Fdt sacred Aw surprize his trembling Will : 
He mus'd, and guess'd, and hovered about 
The glimmering Triith with many a yielding thoqgfat 



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Which Jtius seeing, He upon him threw 
The urgent yoak of an express Injunction ; 
Whose virtue forthwith efficacious grew. 
And made the meeic Saint bow to his high function. 
Cast but thine eye a little up the stream, 
Wading m Crystal there thou seest Them, 

Old Jordan smil'd, receiving such high Pfty 
For those small pains obedient he had spent 
Making his water's guard the dryed way 
Through wonders, when to Caneuin Israel went. 
Nor do's he envy now Pactolus' streams 
Or eastern flouds. whose paths are pav'd with Gems. 

The waves came crowding one upon another 
To their faxt Lord their chaste salute to give : 
Each one did chide and justle back his brother, 
And with laborious foaming murmur strive 
To kiss those Feet, and so more spotless grow. 
Than from its virgin spring it Erst did flow. 

But those most happy Drops the Baptist cast 

On Life's pure head, into the joyless Sea 

Which borroweth from Death its stile, made haste, 

And soon confuted that sad Heraldry : 
The Deep that day reviv'd, and dapt his bands. 
And roll'd his smiles about his wondring strands.' 
(C. III. St. 146-150.) 

3. Herodias, 

' No Syren ever on the watry stage 

Did act so true, a false but kivdy part. 

The gazing careless Seaman to engage 

In the delicious shipwrack of his heart : 
Nor e'r was dangerous Sea so deep and vride 
As in her narrow breast this Nymph did hide. 

Behold her there : What studied neglect 
Upon her shoulders pours her tresses down 1 
How is her breasts with Gems' allurements deckt,. 
Yet wins more eys and wishes by its own ; 
Whose speaking nakedness itself commends, 
And lustful Fancies to what 's cover'd sends. 

Yea ev'n her quaint Attire all thin and light 

With gorgeous hypocrisy doth lay 

More open what it would deny the sight. 

And whilst it stops, invites into the way. 
About she swims ; and by a courtly Dance 
Her other beauties' value doth enhance.' 

(C. HI. St. 177-179.) 

4. Herod trapped. 
All Eyes and Hearts trip after Her, as she 
About the Hall her graceful motions measures : 
No nimble Turn can in the Galiard be. 
But Heroes brains turn too : who by these pleasures 

Again seems drunh, and to his surfeit dcith 

Give ease by vomiting \^ plotted Oath, 

By heav'n and my own Majesty, he cries. 

This Dance, sweet Daughter, must not want reward : 



For never Venus tiaversM the skies. 

With a more Soul-commanding Galiard. 
Let thy Demand be high ; for though it be 
Half of my Realm, 'tis wholly due to Thee. 

A cunning Blush in her well-tutor'd face 
This mighty Promise kindled : to the ground 
Three times she bows, and with a modest gnboe 
Minces her spruce retreat, that she might sound 

Her Mother's counsels, in whose joylitll ear 

She chirps the favor Herod offer'd her. 

The salvage Quun, whose thirst not all the Wines 
At that great Feast could quench, unless they were 
Brew'd with the richer blood of John, indines 
Her Daughter to request this boon for her. 
I ne'r shall think, said she, that Herod is 
. Mine, or his Kingdom's Head, whilst John wears bis. 

(C. III. st 180-183.) 

5. JCiss. 
* Is not a Kiss the soft and yielding Sign 
Which claps the Bargain of Affection up : 
The sweetly-joyous Marriage between 
The tenderest Pair of Lovers, Lip and Lip : 
The closing Harmony, which when the Tongue 
Has done its best, completes \he pleasing Songt 

Is not a Kiss that Mystich Stamp, which though 
It sinks not in, yet deep Impressions leaves : 
The smooth conveyance of the Soul, which through 
The closed Mouth her thrilling self derives : 
Th' Epitomy of genuine Salutation, 
And Modesty's mostgracrfull Copulatum f 

Is not a Kiss the deariy-sacred Seal 

Which cements happy Friends* concording hearts ? 

Must this betrayed be I Must faithless HeU 

Truth's daintyest Soder taint I Must Hatreds Aits 
Be clothed in the delicatest Dress 
Of courteous Peace and amorous Tenderness I 

Must sweet Arabia's beds belch out a Stinh 
Outpois'ning all the Bane of Thessalyl 
Must milky Lilies stam their leaves with Inht 
Thick-lin'd with Thorns must Buds of Roses be f 
Must Harshness lurk in Down I Must Honey flow 
With Galli Must summer Gales bring Ju and Snow I 

O what will Treason not presume to do, 
Which more than all these strange Mutations makes 
In this one venturous Fact of Judas; who 
By Love's delicious Tye all Friendship breaks ; 
Who biteth with his Lips, not with his Teeth, 
And plots to Kiss his dearest Lord to death. 

Who teadieth all Suueeding Traitors how 
To mask with bumish'd Gold that rankling Brass 
Of Impudence, which arms their sullen brow ; 
To tip Rebellion with meeh Lies; to giaoe 
Their arrogant Treaties with submissive Words 
Whilst at their Sovereign's heart they aim theu* swords. ' 
(C. XI. St 300-235.) 



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liii 



6w Caiuumy, 
' Fell Calumny it was ; a monstrous She : 
Her Front and Brows were built of sevenfold brass ; 
An obstinate Swarthiness, which soom'd to be 
Pierced by any Blush, besmear'd her fenot ; 

Her hoUow Eyes with peevish Spight were fiU'd ; 

Her powting Lips with deadly Venom swell'd. 

Her dreadful Jaws replenish'd Quivers were. 
Wherein for Teeth, Spears, Darts and Arrows stood ; 
Her lungs breath'd plagues through all the neighbour 

air; 
Her mouth no moisture knew, but blended blood 

Of Asps and Basilisks, to make her fit 

Svrt Afisekie/ upon Imnocence to spit 

Ten Dragons' stings all twisted into one 
Engin of desperate Sharpness, was her Tongue ; 
This made her Language /nfv Destruction, 
For (fying Kntlls in every Word were rung ; 
No Sentences composed her Oration 
At any time but those of CondemnaHon, 

Her Brain is that mischievous shop, in which 

As every other Slander forged was. 

So that, which, all Eacamples to out-stretch» 

Shamelessly dar'd Omnipotence's lace, 
Prockuming that thy Lord not by his own 
Bui Satasis power trampled Satan down^ 

Whenever any rankling Canker breeds 

Kingdoms' or Countries' fatal overthrow. 

Her viperous trade it is, the pois'nous seeds 

Of restless Fears and Jealousies to sow 
In People's hearts ; who strangely readier are 
To lend to Falshood than to Truth their ear/ 

(C. xiu. St. 47-S'-) 
7. Dread, 

* Immortal Dread star'd wide in either Eye ; 

Ptow'd was her Forehead, and the Furrows deep 

Sown with the Seeds of all Severity, 

And now mature for Jesus^s Soul to reap : 
Her Cheeks red-hot, a spark was every Word, 
Bright fire her Lips, her Tongue a flaming Sword. 

She never in such horrible Array 

Maich'd down to Earth ; not when she fumish'd came 

With Water's arms to wash the World away ; 

Or purge Gomorrha with tijiood rf Flame ; 

Or wet her winged fiery Serpents' Tongue, 

The Israelites' Rebellion to sting. 

A veil, so hideously Uack, that Night 

Or Hell, codld not in Darhness vie with it, 

"Twist Heav'n and Her was spread ; which, tho' Day- 
light 

Here now at liberty, would not permit 
The stoutest Mortals Sin-condemned Eyes, 
To reach the gracious comfortable Skies. 

Ten thonaand Furies throng'd on either hand. 
With mDUoDSof i\M^and EJulaHons; 



Whilst strong Eternity supported, and 
Hugg'd every Horror: troops of Desperations, 
Raving and rioting with barbarous <diear 
In their own Blood, made up her Army's Rear. 

A Massy sable Booh she sternly held, 
And op'd it leaf by leaf to Jesu^s Eyes : 
When lo, each dreadful /a^^r appeared fill'd 
With crouds of such transcendent Prodigies, 
As quite absolv'd from Horridness's guilt 
Those Feinds of which her Regiments were built.' 
(C. XIV. St 164-168.) 

8. Fride and comparisons, 
• This was the fearful Frontespice : But Pride 
Usurp'd the first and fairest Leaf, and shew'd 
(What never mask was large enough to hide) 
Her swoU'n and blister'd Countenance, whidi spew'd 
Rank banefiil matter, being bnxsed by 
A fidlsbe caught as she was climbing high. 

Then followed learing Spight, sly Calumny, 
Lean Avasiee besmear'd with gnawing Rust, 
Ignoble Cheating, ugly Treachery, 
Dark sneaking Thrft, and ever-stinging Lust, 

Intemperanu wallowing in a nasty flood 

Of Vomit: Murder in a sea of Blood, 

That Earth-relying Heav'n-distrusting Thing, 

Foolish base-hearted Infidelity: 

Grinding Extortion, and self-torturing, 

Because for ever jealous Tyranny: 
Rotten Hypocrisy / proud learned Folfy : 
Dire Discontent: and hellish Melancholy, 

Disloyal Murmurs; Pulpit Villanies: 
Curs'd Holy Leagues: and zealous ProfanaOonsi 
Sin-fatning Fasts: Thanksgiving solemn Lyes i 
Bold Sacrilege: rebellious Reformations: 
Enchanting Error: venemous Heresy ,* 
New Lights and Spirits: old Idolatry, 

But for their number, it disdains the skill 
Of Computation, and all figures' reach : 
Not all the Sparhs whose glistering Armies fill 
The field of Heav'n ; not all the Atoms which 

Traffick about the Summer Air, can tell 

Their mighty Total how to parallel. 

For each dwarf fault, and gyant Crime did stand 
In martial rank and file arrayed there, 
Which any humane Tongue of Heart or Hand 
Was ever stained with, since through the ear 
Of heedless Eve the Tempter's charms let in 
The desperate Torrent of contagious Sin. 

Nay more than so : for every Stain which through 
All Ages to the end of Time's career 
Shall taint the World, most mindful Justice now 
Had in a black Appendix marshall'd : there 
P^che, ^y proud Revolt, and all the rest 
Of thy ofienoes, were at large ezprest* 

(C. XIV. St. I7X-I77.) 



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9. Satam*s Defiance, 
' He, base unworthy Spirit as he is, 
Not only stoops to Ckrist (which gallant We 
Of old disdain'd, and still that Scorn profess) 
But with intolerable flattery 
Turns Page to Dust, and blusheth not to bow 
FYom heav'n to wait on this vile Worm below. 

Had he not better nobly Fall'n with Us, 
And kept the Credit of his kighbom Mind; 
Than crouch, and sneak, and curry favor thus 
Of that proud Tyrant f Can an Angel find 
Christ s love and smile, worth being hackny'd down 
Far more below himself than we are throvm 1 

For my part, were I freely now to choose, 

I would accept the bottom of my Hell 

And hug Damnation ; nther than with those 

Ignoble Sons of Earth a Servant dweU. 
Those guardian Angels think We cursed be : 
Fools, who perceive not their own Slavery! 

They boast, Heav'n's King 's their Sovereign ; and I 
Take these confessing Vassals at their word : 
But, I '1 maintain 't, 'tis greater Dignity 
To have him for my Fo, than for my Lord, 

They brag that Heav'n's their own, aud Blisse't Hill ; 

Why I have more than so, I have my ill.* 

(C. XVIL St XOO'IOS.) 

xo. Home of Simon Afagus, 

* Truth's best Dissembler, old Apelles heir 

Had quickned those dead Walls, and made them live 
In many a holy History ; whose fair 
And breathing Colours did such welcome give, 
That all Spectators' hearts leap'd to their eyes 
To feast, Uiough but on painted Rarities. 

There Faith appeared with her eagle's Eye 

Hope with both hands her Anchor clasping fast, 

And with wide-open bosom Charity ; 

Whose looks wiUi such beseeming beams were drest, 

That those who thoroughly scann'd them not, might 
deem 

She at heav'n's genuine fire bad kindled them. 

With these were ranked Zeal, Austerity, 
Devotion, Meehness, Gentleness, Content; 
And whatsoe'r might advantageous be 
The brave Imposture wisely to present, 

Baits which might easly work a greater feat 

Than Psyche* s soft Simplicity to cheat.' 

(C. XVIII. St. 146-148.) 

zz. Ecclesia's Museum, 

* The Floor with glittering Silver all was spred, 
The AUmug Walls with royal Arras drest, 
The Cedar Roof with Gold imbellished, 

With glorious Pftint the Windows ; such a Feast 
Of pompous sights she never saw before, 
Though she had view'd Agenor^s splendid Store. 



Yet this was but the handsome case and skin 

Of what did more Majestick make the Place ; 

For nobly lost were all the Pillars in 

Innumerable Spoils, which She who was 
Quttn of the Palace, in her Wars had won. 
And fiz'd them here, as Proofs what she had done. 

Here by their Horns. Dilemmas hanging were. 

And of big Syllogisms, the empty Skins. 

Bold busy Wit, lay tame and quiet here ; 

Here Rhetorich, with all her cunning Gins 
Twisted about her neck : here all the Pride 
Of secular Wisdom, was dose pcis'ner ty'd. 

Next those, that insolent Severity, 
That humhle Arrogance, which long did reign 
In th' old admired Parch, hung dead and dry ; 
And chained Zeno knit his brows in vain 
To see that Doctrine which so far prevail'd. 
Up here by conquering Truth In triumph nail'd. 

And yet some comfort 'twas, that He beheU 

The Pythagorean Prudence hanging by ; 

And its great Master, though he ne'r would yield 

It fit for Men with FUsh to satisfy 
Their Hunger's Call, forc'd madly now to eat 
Himself, and make his chained Arms his Meat. 

Nor had the Epicurean Discipline 

Better success, for she was Captive here ; 

And both with Shame and Hunger taught to pine 

And dearly pay for her luxuriant Cheer : 
All lank and thin she hung, like nothing less 
Than Magazine of swell'd Voluptuousness. 

Th' Egyptian Learning, black as blackest Hdl 

Where it was bred and bom, hung also here ; 

Nbr could invent with all its Magich Shill 

Any mysterious Chann or Character 
It self from that Disgrace to conjure down. 
But found Truth's Spells much stronger than her own. 

By these, the Spoils snatch'd firom the furthest PtsTts 
Of strangest Indian Worlds, hung one by one ; 
The proud Gymnosophists and Brachman's Arts: 
(For noble Bartholmew had thither run, 

And ThowMs too ; and made their Journey be 

Only the March of speedy Victory^ 

So did the Persians* Astrologich Shill, 
And what in Balaam*s Midian School was taught : 
A mighty Prise was this, the Flower of Hell, 
With thousand Sects of various Learning fraught ; 
Yet none of these could calculate thai They 
Should unto CathoUch Truth become a Ptey. 

Nor did the Academich Glory, 'scape. 

Though sage grave Plato lais'd it fair and high ; 

For here it hung hi contemptible shape, 

Presenting more of reverend Foolery, 
Than genuine Wisdom, and lamenting that 
It reach'd so near to Truth, yet rtach'd it not. 



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Next this, the OraeUs of the SiagartU, 
(That God of logical and wrangling Brains,) 
Hong all in sooraed miserable plight, 
Unable to Confute their conquering Chains ; 
And wish'd that they their Master's £ate had seen, 
And drowned with him in Euripus been. 

Yea eir'n the SkefiUk ProUan Ctmning too. 
For all her wiley wiles, was taken here ; 
And now convinced by her certain Wo, 
Confessed some Thith could naked be and clear ; 

And into palpable assurance grew 

That her Captivity at least was True, 

In one side of the Hall these marshaU'd were ; 

Nor did the other with less Spoils abound : 

For all the Sadducaan Points hung there. 

Too late bewailing what too late they found, 
That they from thence should no redemption have, 
Who held no Resurrection from the Grave. 

And in the same condition hanging was 
Stubborn Herodianism, but buckled now ; 
Finding that Help to its distressed Cause 
lu dead and rotten God could not allow ; 
That Herod proved no such kind of Thing 
As Christ, of Glory and of Power Kmg. 

Essitan Prudence too was fain to bear 

Her Fate, and share in this Captivity ; 

Though all her Ways, and Grounds, and Doctrines were 

Of nearest kin to Truth : yet seeing She 
Made least resistance, Justice gave command 
She should be tyed in the gentler Band. 

But puflTd with zealous Ignorance and Pride, 

The Pharisaich Discipline held out 

In flat de6anoe : bravingly she try'd 

Her fencied strength, and obstinately fought. 
And much she might have done, had Truth not been 
Aided by Heav'n to bring her Prisoner in. 

Yet alter Her, innumerable Swarms 
Of peevish restless Vermin undertook 
The War again ; and being once in arms, 
From sucking sneaking Sckismst they boldly broke 
Into the monstrous amplitude of those 
Black Heresies, whose depth Hell only knows.' 

(C. XIX. St. XOX-117.) 

13. Maids of Honour, 
* But mark that Company whose station is 
Before the Throne ; true Maids of Honor, whose 
Sweet privilege it is this Queen to Dress ; 
Their hands alone have her adom'd with those 
Embellishments, which round about her shine. 
And make that fairer look which was Divine. 

That slender strait-lac'd Maid, is Unity, 
Who buckles on (for that 's her proper part) 
That golden Girdle which so decently 
Huggeth her Sovereign's Loins : and with what art 
Her noble Duty she performs, thou may'st 
Read in the Queen's epitomized Waste. 



That sober Matron, in whose stayed Eye, 

And venerable Face, so fair are writ 

The awful Lines of Heaven, is Sanctity : 

Who reverently before the Queen doth set 
Her faithful self, and serves her for a Glass 
By which to guide and order all her Dress. 

The Next, whose Soft and yielding Looks confess 
The temper of her heart, is Patience : 
Her Empress she bedecks with Tenderness, 
And makes her slow and loth to take offence ; 
That all her Subjects by her Softness may 
Be charm'd, so kind a Princess to obey. 

But Magnanimity, that highlook'd She 

Embraves that Mildness with right active Fire; 

This that Virago is, who scorns to see 

Any Exploit of Gallantry outvie her. 
Ecclesias Brows with Stoutness she doth build. 
And helps her both her mighty Keys to weild. 

She whose wideopen Breasts so fairiy swell. 
And wears as large a Purse upon her side ; 
Who looks about to see where she may spill 
Her teeming Charity's never-ebbing Tide ; 
Is Bounty, Almner to the Queen, whom she 
Likewise arrays with Grace and Courtesy. 

That other, whose ev'n Look was never knit 

Into a Frown, nor loos'd into a smile ; 

Whose right hand holds a Sword, whose left a fit 

And equal Balance, Justice is ; who still 
As Cases come, her Ladie's eyes doth dress 
With what is neither IVrath nor Priendlyness. 

She whose sharp Eye kx)ks all things through and 
through. 

And sees both sides of double-faced Chance; 

Who in Futurity's blind Sea can rowe. 

And take a plenal Prospect by a Glance ; 
Is searching Wisdom, and do's every mom 
Her Sovereign's Head most studiously adorn. 

That amiable sweet-complexion'd Maid 
Is Temperance, which keeps the Queen so fair : 
In all Distempers She with ready Aid 
Knows how her health and beauty to repair : 

Her Body sound, her skin she maketh sleek ; 

She with warm Roses trims her lovely Cheek. 

Those other Virtues too (for AH are there,) 
Attend their several Offices. But turn, 
And mark that neighbour Combination, where 
Far nobler Virgins wait ; that thou may'st learn 
By their rare Worth how glorious is She 
Whose houshold Servants they are proud to be. ' 
(C. XIX. St. 185-194,) 

13. Nahed Truth, 
' But now behold where at the Queen's right hand. 
As best deserving that illustrious Place, 
The Flower of all these Maiden Flowers doth stand, 
The Gallantly ev'n of her Queen to grace : 



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A Virgin fairer than her native Nest 
The silver Spheres, which by her Birth 

Lo she from head to foot all Naked is, 
As are the Sun by day and Stan by night : 
Her self She with her /n^«r Beams doth dress. 
As they with their Attire of natural Ught. 

External Helps true Beauty never lacks ; 

Tis Shame alone which Vestments useful 



Who ever thought the Rose or Lilly stood 
Guilty of course unhandsom Nakedness, 
Because they never put on borrowed Hood, 
Nor veiled up their native Sweetnesses ? 

For where shall Ornaments be found which may 

Fairer, such Sons of Goodliness array ? 

Believe it P^cke, she doth but retain 
Her Countrie's fashion : they whose Bliss it is 
In Heav'n, the Realm of richest Pomp, to reign. 
Profess no other kind of Dress but this ; 
They naked go of whatsoe'r might hinder 
Or doke the Grace of their arraying SpUndor^ 

A Texture all of GUny, soft and white 
As is her virgin Soul, surrounds her : when 
Darkness can smutch the higfanoon Face of Light, 
When veins of Ink in floods of Milk can run ; 

Then may a Critick hope to spie in her 

Pellucid Robe of Nakedness, a Blur. 

That Nakedness, which though it boeeds Desire, 
In every Heart not stupify'd with stone. 
It kindles none but sweet and spotless Fire ; 
In whose pure furnace brave Devotion 

Learns with more simghtful fervency to g^ow, 

And Ckastity it self refin'd doth grow. 

But O what Powers are flaming in her Face. 

Pouring her Conquests upon every Eye I 

The hardyest He that e'r on her did gaze. 

Yielded and lov'd his sweet Captivity. 
Error her self, though swell'd with Pride and Hell, 
In her bright presence is content to kneeL 

Her name is Truth; and what her Care and Chaige 
Judge by those Tokens which her Hands present ; 
Two Autographs: that in her Left, the large 
And Old, but never-failing Testament: 

That in her Right, the New: which could with none 

Justly intrusted be, but Her alone. 

For every Leaf of them a Miirour is 

In which she reads her own unspotted Face : 

Each Line is taught sinoerely to express 

Some oonespondent Lineament of Grace 
In her sweet Body, whose all-lovely Looks 
Are nothing bat the Ufe of those dead Books.* 

(C XIX. St. azS-aafi.) 

14. Time, 
* For Tiwu, inestimable Time, was that 
On which her only Avarice she fed : 



Griev'd that the world with such elaborate 

And costly Idleness had studied. 
A thousand courtly Pastimes, seeing they 
Alas, pass not the Time, but Man, away : 

Madly-improvident Man ; who though vain he 
Be sure he's sure of nothing, but to Die ; 
Though in his power the next poor moment be 
Nor more than is the next Age ; labours by 
The help of long-extended empty Sport 
To make the too-too-posting Hours seem short.' 

(C. XX. St 397-998.) 

15. AmHtion — in a good sense. 
' Rare souls are they, who still forgetting what 
Behind them conquer'd lies ; with restless heat 
Reach at new Laurels, and adventure at 
Whate'r inviteth Gallantry to sweat ; 

Who, like our Psyche, soom their course to stop. 

TiU they have doubled fair Perfection's Top. 

For as the generous Spark is not content 
With having climb'd the Air's first stage, since by 
The spurring fervor of its natural Bent 
Above the third it aims ; and needs must die. 

Unless it may its high Design atcbieve, 

And in Fire's elemental bosom live : 

So Psyche, who to Excellence's sphere 
Steer'd her brave Course, now for a second flight 
Her Wings and Resolution did prepare ; 
Knowing a Third remained still, which might 
Her former Venture frustrate ; if in this 
She coward tum'd, and bow'd to Weariness. 

In meekly-daring Zeal, she vow'd to try 
The utmost of her strength : and fear'd not what 
Mishap might intercept her Bravery : 
Hxnigh Chance's Wheel in her hand rolled not, 
In God^s it dkl ; And upon This will I 
Since he has giv'n me leave, said she, rely. 

As sure I am that he can bear me up. 
As that, left to my self, I down shall tumble : 
Nor can I flail to reach the glorious Top 
Of my inflam'd Ambition, whilst I humble 

My climbing heart : no longer will I, though 

On Earth I live, a Dweller be below.' 

(C. XXI. St. 6-za) 

z6. Persecution and her train. 
' The Chariot's metal nothing was but Brass, 
Bright burning Brass; of which each dismal side 
With sharp and hungry Hooks thick-platted was, 
To mow down All it met : in this did ride 

The dreadful Queen, a Queen of mighty Fame ; 

Who hath not heard of Persecution's Name. 

All Ftowns which make stem Panthers' aspects be 

Of ravenous Cruelty the hideous Book ; 

With indefatigable Industry 

She had transcrib'd into her monstrous Look, 



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Ivii 



Aod strangely tnm'd her Yainlj-huiiiaiie Face 
To InkmrnoHiiUs most fifgfatiiil C^asi. 

The mighty Plea of gracious Innocenci 

IVo^es weak and useless at her salvage Bar ; 

For causeless Spiight, and bloody Violenoe 

Her only Laws and only Pleasures are. 
Hunfn shield all pious Souls, and raise their fears 
To goieroas Faith, wherfr^rer She appears. 

Her steely Coat 's all smear'd with gore ; her Hands 
Gripe two imprison'd Twists of angry Snakes, 
V^th which, though still her Coachman never stands, 
Btemally she threshes him, and makes 
His finions Speed more speedy grow, that she 
Might at her Prey as soon 's her Wislus be. 

Thus whirl'd she through the Popular Ront, and flew 

To her desired 1$U the straitest way ; 

Behmd the Coach her larger Thun she drew, 

Rjght glad to tread her cruel steps ; for they 
Were All her own infernal genuine Brood, 
Whom she had nurs'd and fiuten'd up with blood. 

Upon a Goat, more stinking ftx than He, 
Rode RavUkmuU; who threw his licorish eyes. 
And they bold wanton fire, on every She 
Whom Beauty's Wealth oommeoded for a Prise. 
The Chariot's Haste he curs'd, and he alone, 
Flrom's Sin's fair fod loth to part so soon. 

Perch'd on a VnUuf^i hack was Rapine, who 
In length of Talk)ns did that Bbrd exceed ; 
Starv'd with Desfav. though fiit in Spoils, she so 
Tormented was, that with more headlong Speed 
She wish'd her Qnmt would march, that at the Feast 
OlBHHsM Pitmda^Okt might be a Guest 

Upon an OsiricM, more unnatural 

Than barbarous She, rode meagre Astorgy, 

Vowfaig aloud to tear in sunder all 

Those Cords with which true Love delighu to tie 
The Souls of Parents, and of Children ; and 
Shatter the haks of evoy Nnptial Band. 

High-mounted on an Hydra, Heresy 

M^th more and stranger heads than had her Steed; 

Rcjoyc'd fai hope that now contagious She 

Her Poison to another World should spread ; 

And AlHon*s Sands, which bridled in the Sea. 

SbooM by her stouter Tide o'rflowed be. 

A black and grisly Dog bore Pro/anaHon: 
Her who ne'r learnt Distinction of Place, 
Of Tfane, or TUngs ; who never yet could fashkm 
A modest Look, or paint a Blush's Grace ; 

Whose Rudeness no more reverence affords 

To holy Altars, than to Dresser-boards. 

Bold Sacrilqre sate pertly on a KiU; 
And though her daws were burnt, and sing'd her Wings 
E'r smoe the Altar n^ght have tau^^t her Wit, 
(For vengeful Coals stock to the sacred Hitogs, 

46 



Branding the saucy Thief.) yet shameless She 
A-robUng Heav'n and (^u/ again would be. 

Upon a Serpent bred in Hell beneath, 
Which bdch'd rank fire at every step he took. 
Which reached Heav'n with his pestiferous breath. 
Which fought with holy Incense by the smoke 

Of his foul Throat ; rode desperate Blasphtmy, 

And dared all the way Divinity, 

But on an Heifer of Egyptian race. 

Right proud of his renown'd Descent (for he 

The Heir of Apit and of Isis was.) 

Sate full as gross a Brute, Idolatry : 
And yet Devotos, grosser than her Beast, 
Or She, about her with their Ofirings prest. 

And this was Persecution's princdy Train ; 

Which all the way she went, stroke mortal filght 

Into the Countries, travelling in Pain, 

As she in 'Triumph ; till her rushing Flight 
Her, and their Fears far out of sight had bom. 
And bad them fix)m their Dens and Caves return.' 
(C xxii. St 100-113). 

17. Privacy. 

* He who both Leisure and Desire can find 
To sequester Impertinences, that 
Improper Business he may only mind 
And raise by pious Thrift his best Estate, 

That he a Bank of endless Wealth may have 
When poor he go's and naked to his grave : 

He, He*s the Man. on whom the Citie's Joys 
And proud F.xfyfW : the Countrie's hearty Sport ; 
The gallant Licence, and the glittering Toys, 
V^th all the glorious Nothings of the Court, 

As on their Conqueror look ; Shice sOber He 

Can of plain Solitude inamored be. 

For here his Soul more Company can meet 
And of more high and worthy Quality, 
Than in the Theater's most thronging Sweat, 
Where Spectades profess to court the Eye. 

Sadi Prvoxsex Justle oat all Heav'n, but He 

Reads it at large in this Vacuity: 

(C. XXIII. St. 11-13.) 

18. Tempest, 

* When lo the Welkin, which before was dear. 
And flowed with the Sun's transparent Gold ; 
Started firom its Cur Looks with sudden fear. 
And did in swarthy Weeds it self infold. 

Day was abash'd to see how boldly Night 
Incroach'd upon her, and despis'd her Light : 

The Air, presaging what outrageous Pains 
Would tear her tender weatherbeaten sides. 
Looks sadly, and with hollow Groans complains 
Aforehand (tf the Storm ; which as she chides. 
She but awakes ; and so provokes to rage 
With louder fury on this tnigick Stage. 



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Forthwith the Qouds came tumbling one upon 
Another's back, for fear to lose their place 
And office in that blind Confusion 
With which the Element all gravid was : 

Qose-quaking in his Cave lay every Beast, 

And every Bird lamenting in his Nest. 

The daunted Trees shiver'd in every Leaf ; 
The stones forgot their strength, and sweat for fear ; 
The Com hung down their heads, and pour'd their grief 
By whispers into one another's ear. 

Never did more dismaying Expectation 

Usher in any Tempest's Indignation. 

Strange Phantoms dress'd in spurious smoaking Light 

Fed by foul Sulphur, flashed all about ; 

Fell grixly Ghosts array'd in gloomy Fright 

Both with themselves and one another fought : 
Whole Troops of Feinds and Furies, in despair. 
Threw their torn Serpents through the sable Air. 

The labouring Clouds at length with open Cry 
Brought forth their Woe. and thundered their Complaint : 
The Bowels of the hardest Rocks were by 
Compassion mov'd ; the massy Earth grew fiednt. 
And all her boldest Mountains shak'd to hear 
The doleful Outcry of her neighbour Sphere.' 

(C. xxiii. St. 4S-SO. 

19. Despair, 
* But Thou, Dispair, (and here he tum'd aside. 
For waiting at his right hand stood thitjlend,) 
Shalt tear her hither : Thou mayst find her bid 
In that blind Desert's furthest closest End, 
Which borders on the Superstitious sink 
Where Arimathean Joseph's bones do stink. 

The delegated y»r|r made no suy, 
(For what so headlong is as Desperation f) 
But posted upward, snatching by the way 
Her dismal Engins in such ireful fashion. 
That all her Sisters started at her haste, 
And frighted Hell was glad when she was past. 

r th' dark deep bowels of the hilly Peah 
There lies a gloomy and disconsolate Way, 
Through which with such impatient pace she brake. 
That round about the Country trembling lay ; 

In whose dull bosom all the sleepy Lead ; 

Awak'd for fear, and ran about its bed. 

The Beasts which saw the Monster as she flew, 

Distracted at the horror of the sight, 

Themselves down fatal Precipices threw ; 

All Birds unable to maintain their flight 
Let their Wings flag, and hung their heads aside, 
And having chang'd their Songs to shriekings, dy'd. 

But still the frighted Fury posted on 

TiU she arriv'd at her desired Place : 

Where finding pensive Psyche all alone. 

She set her hideous self full hi her face. 
All horrid Wrinkles to her odious Looks 
Are Gardens of Delight and Beautie's Books. 



Pale Ghasifytuss triaaplied ia bia teo& 
Which yet withjtovnurf sttingelj tmoe maiBtaiii'd : 
Her own Veins swarthy Gore with hellish Grace 
The grim deep Valleys of her Cheeks ingrain'd ; 
Where her fell NaUs to plough full often went, 
And on her cursed self her madness spent 

Her k>cks were half rent ol^ to was her Gown ; 
And more by careless Nastyneas was she 
Arrayed than by Clothes : Her breasu hung down 
All lank and torn, and flapp'd upon her knee. 
Which gap'd, and sheVd the naked shatter'd bones 
She wilfully had dash'd on ragged stones. 

Ten thousand Bruses made her Leanness iat 
With Tumors and with Pains ; no Joints were true 
To their uniting Name ; nor any knot 
Of LigamenU their binding Oflioe knew : 
Her carcase was an heap of broken Limbs, 
By which she only her owm Rmns seems* 

But every part look'd delicate and fiair. 

To her most hollow yet most staring Eyes ; 

In which such sovereign Terrors muster'd were, 

Pa fear's own fancy ne*r could equalise ; 
For one was like to nothing but the other, 
And either strove which should outstarQ hift brother. 

These were the ominoos Mirpours where each He 
Whose Bosom was not hmoceat and dear 
No sooner look'd, but he was forc'd to see 
His heart in all her Crimes array'd ; which there 
Appearing double^ rais'd his fright so high 
That from his odious self he long'd to fly. 

The direfiill Basilisks' misdiietons Eyes, 

And those of fadnating Witdies» are 

Far safer Glasses, than these Prodigies. 

Which with the Life of killing Horrors glare. 
Heav'n shield the Man whose miserable Chance 
Damns him into the compass of her Glance. ' 

(C. XXIII. St. 106-1x6.) 

fla VisiompresinM by Charts^ 

* When Charis, upon whose eternal Bye 

No slumber ever creeps, began a new. 

Mysterious Work ; for with activity 

About Imagination's Orb she flew. 
And cuU'd and crop'd those Fancies here and there 
Which for her Purpose serviceable were. 

Thus furnished, with all Materials, she 

Upon the theater of Psyche's breast 

By orderly degrees the Gallantly 

Of an incomparable Pageant drest. 
She first rear'd up a goodly Throne^ whose Light 
Outvy'd the hyperborean Snow in white. 

Forthwith she placed on that royal Seat 

A Prince, who with more Beauty gamish'd it 

No Monarch ever in more awful State 

On his imperial glistering Chaur did sit. 
Indeed all Potentates but shadows be 
Tb this anthentich sovereign's Majesty. 



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lix 



His oopkras Robe do«n from his shoulders flow'd 
To his fiiur Feet with streams of Gfacefulness ; 
A Girdle of iUHStrious Gold, which ow'd 
Its birth not tmto Earth, but Heav'n, did kiss 

And closely hug his blessed Loins, which yet 

In goodly Richness far outshined it. 

No Fuller's Labour ever made so white 

The finest Wool, as was his daintier Hair ; 

Which potved down the volumes of its bright 

And curled Wealth with curious careless Care 
About his Alabaster Neck ; which stood 
Like some white Pillar in that snowy Wood. 

As in their Tenerable Sockets on 

The sacred Altar glorious Tapers flame. 

So look'd his Eyes ; whose reverend Beams alone 

About the Temple of his Face did stream ; 

Which paiallel'd the Sun's best Looks when He 

Is awful in his highnoon Clarity. 

The most refin'd Corinthian Brass which in 
The bosom of th' incensed Furnace glows. 
With such feir Terror ne'r was known to shine 
As from his boming Feet of Glory flows. 

Thus was this radiant Kitig from foot to head 

With Majesty's Excess embellished. 

Innumerable Angtls then she brought 

To frirnish out his Court and fill his Train ; 

Who their bright Stations took as quick as Thought. 

And with their golden Trumpets hi a strain. 
Which through the roused Universe rebounded. 
The glory of thdr mighty ^ofwrfigr!^ sounded. 

Forthwith His Standard to the open Air 

She poured out ; in which embroider'd stood. 

Most dieadiully-Ulustrious and fair. 

His Arms Imperial stained all with blood : 
For 'twas his Cross^ encompass'd now with more 
Notorious Honor than with Shame before. 

As thus He sate triumphant on his Throne, 
He lifted up his Face and look'd about : 
Straitway the frighted Earth oonfus'dly ran 
Fkom his intoUerable Eyes ; the stout 

And hardy hearts of Rocks were split with Dread ; 

The ptondest Hills and Mountains tremUing fled.' 
(C. xxnr. St. 79-88-) 

I am free to admit that my ' representative 
passages ' might easily be trebled, and still 
leave many that others might prefer to any 
of my selections. But this only proves that 
'Psyche' is worthy of renewed study and 
revived £ame, and a place in every anthology 
of our English Poets. In adducing these 
quotations I have now and again recalled 
Milton and Collins. At this point I would 



record a few out of well-nigh endless par- 
allels that I had placed in the margins of my 
folio of 'Psyche' — ^with additions from my 
cultured and excellent friend George H. 
White, Esq., of Glenthome. In C. iii. st 
53, we are reminded by ' For what was I % a 
Lump of sordid Clay ' of Sir Henry Wotton's 
* For what are we but lumps of walking clay ' 
(Reliq. Wott). In C. vi. st. ii6 we read:— 

' If you those Distances compare with this, 
The East and West are one, the Poles will kiss.' 

So too in C. XVIII. st 89, ' May reconcile 
the Poles into a Kiss.* We ineviubly think 
of George Herbert C The Search ') :— 

' Thy will such a strange distance is 

as that to it 
East and west touch, the poles do kisse, 

and parallels meet.' 

One of Herbert's most splendid images, 
which everybody knows, is thus semi- 
reproduced (C. XIII. st 212): — 

' Down to the bottom of each tender Vein 
The cruel Engins div'd, and tore from thence 
Th:^ precious purple springs: which in disdain 
They toss'd about, until their violence 
In too too costly colours painted thick, 
Upon th' unworthy Floor and Pillar stuck.' 

As with Crashaw it is extremely satisfying 

to have Beaumont's tribute to Herbert, as 

thus (C. IV. st 102) : — 

' (Yet neither of their Empires was so vast 
^t they left Herbert too, full room to reign ; 
Who Lyric's pure and predous Metal cast 
In holier moulds, and nobly durst maintain 
Devotion in Verse, whilst by the spheres 
He tunes his Lute^ and plays to heaVnly ears.)' 

The taking of the * fatal fruit' in C. vi. st 
292, our Poet thus describes : — 

' Up went her desperate hand, and reach'd away 
The whole world's Bliss whilst she the Apple took. 
When lo, with paroxisms of strange dismay 
Th' amased HeaVus stood still. Earth's basis shook, 
The troubled Ocean roard, the startled Air 
In hollow grones profoundly breath'd its fear.' 

Compare 'Paradise Lost' (ix. 11. 782-3). 
* Earth felt the wound, and Nature from her seat 
Sighing through aU her Works gave signs of woe.' 
(See also U. xooo sqq.) 



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MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION. 



Very pleasing is the tribute — somewhat 
veiled — to Richard Crashaw, as already 
pointed out (I. Biographical). The more 
interesting is it to note reminiscences of him 
in ' Psyche.' These are numerous. I can 
only tarry to record the more direct, e,g, :— 

I. Satan, 
' But footer was the stink : all honest Flowers 
Frighted from their own sweets fell sick and dy'd ; 
Stout Trees which had defy'd all Tempests* powers, 
Flrom this dire Breath sneak'd their Calm heads aside. 
Only some venemous Weeds, whose roots from Hell 
Suck in their deadly living, lik'd the smell.' 

C. I. St. 47. 
a. Monster-hoar, 
' At this dire spectacle their troubled heads 
The trees did shake, and all their leaves did quiver : 
The fearfiill flowers fell down upon their beds. 
Closing their funting eyes : the frighted River 
Doubled his course, and headlong through dismay 
Sought from his channel how to run away.' 

C. II. St. 24. 

3. Stories of Chastity, 

* Thick were the Walls impeopled with the stories 
Of those whom Chastity hath cloth*d in White, 
Flrom antient Abel's most unspotted glories, 
Unto the latest beams of virgin-light : 

That AM who first to his Liliis tied 
Martyrdom's Roses, in whose bed he died.' 

C IIL St. 44. 

4. Baptism 0/ Jesus, 

* To be Baptised, but not cleans'd. comes He, 
Who is more spotless than that living Lighi 
Which gilds the crest of Heav'n's sublimity : 
He comes, by being washed to wash white 

Baptism itself, that it henceforth from Him 
And his pure Touch, with Purity may swim.' 

C. III. St 142. 

5. The Incarnation. 

* The Day which made Immensity become 
A Littie one ; which printed goodly Afay 

On pale December's face ; which drew the Sum 

0/ Paradise into a Bud; the Day 
Which shrunk Eternity into a Span 
Of Tim*, Heav'n into Earth, God into Man,* 

C. VII. St. IS& 

6. Infant Martyrs, 
' These rosea! Buds of early Martyrdom 
Transplanted were to Paradise; and there 
Beyond the reach of Herod s rage, became 
Flowers of Eternal bliss, whose Temples are 
Imbrac'd with crowns of joy. whose hands with palms. 
Whose eyes with beams, whose tongues are fill'd with 
Psalms.' C. VIII. st. a6o. 



7. MiraeUofWattrehamgtdimio Wim. 
* The cool and Viigin Nymfh drawn from the Pot, 
All over blushed, and grew sparkling hot.' 

C. z. St 44. 

The epithet 'white' is peculiarly and 
exquisitely Crashaweian of 'Chastity;' the 
' washing of the water ' is one of the famous 
conceits of the Epigrams ; while ' Eternity, 
shutt in a span ' of the ' Holy Nativity/ 
is among our memorahUiay and the last is a 
somewhat grotesque recollection of * Lympha 
pudica,' etc.* 

Milton is again recalled by C. iii. st 133 : 

... 'thecye ' 

And Port of Purity so reverend are. 
That Beasu most feared wait on it with fear.' 

This at once sends us to Comus. Again : 
' Behold a sudden globe of pliant light ' (C. 
VII. st 217). This, if fetched from Fletcher's 
' Christ's Victorie/ none the less recalls the 
Hymn on the Nativity (st 11), *a globe 
of circular light'' The Reader will have 
noticed the quaint phrasings :-— ^ 



* . . . scramtding . • 

C. VIII. st 168. 
' AU shapeless shapes together tumbled were 
To mould up Shame's extremity on her.' 

C. rviiL st 185. 

So in * Paradise Lost ' (11. p. 666) : — 

' If shape it might be call'd, that shape had none.' 

Once more : — 
' A Banquet not of gross and earthly chear, 

But of immortal Dainties. SpiriU' Fare. 

Diet of Souls.' C xn. st 69. 

This suggests II Penseroso (1. 46) : — 

* Spare Fast that oft with Gods doth diet.' 
Further : — 

* Chanting those Tunes of BUss no mortal ear 
Hath any capability to hear.' C. xv. st 30a 

1 See my Introduction to Giles Fletcher't Poems (Fuller 
Worthies* Libnry and larly English PoeU^ wherein I give 
parallels. 

* See also Sir John Davies* Poems : Works, Fuller Worthies' 
Library : Verse, pp. lag. aoi in ' The Viigin Nymph.* 



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Ixi 



We are reminded of the Arcades (11. 

72-3) :~ 

' After the heavenly tune, which none can hear 
Of human mould with gross unporged ear.' 

By C. IX. St 245 onward) of the ' Assyrian 
Lion/ and ^Russian Bear/ the * Purple 
Island ' is recalled (Phin. Fletcher's Poems, 
voL iv. p. i96)« 

Even Wordsworth may have glanced 

into * Psyche,* /^., 

* For its profoundly paradoxick foot 
Trnplnnted is above and not below.' 

C. XIX. St. X47. 

Place beside this, in the sonnet ' Malham 
Cove ' :— 

/foundations must be laid 
In Heaven.' 

The asceticism of Beaumont led him to 
traverse Spenser's juster view of human 
beauty, as witness : — 

. . . ' the goodlyest wight 
Is seldom good.' 

Sooth to say, our Poet had no very lofty 
estimate of the ' Poet of Poets,' e,g. (C. iv. 
St 105):— 

' Not far from whom, though in lower clime 
Yet with a goodly Train doth Colin sweep : 
Though manacled in thick and peevish Rhyme, 
A decent pace his painful Verse doth keep : 
Right fiurly dress'd were his wdfeatur'd Quant 
Did not bar Mask too much her beauties screen.' 

Probably ' all the Raies of Goodness ' 
(C. XXI. St 69) was suggested by Samuel 
Daniel to ' the Countesse of Cumberland' : — 

' Base malediction, living in the darken 
That at the raies of goodnesse still doth barke.' 

I have come on only two £unt echoes 
of Shakespeare : — 

* A thousand shapes of vain and useless things [dreams] 
Wandring about the stordiouse of the mind ; 

On whose soft backs she [fancy] gets, and madly flings 
About the region of the brain.' C. xxi. st 34. 

and — 

* And watchful Vesper dress'd as oft with light 
The silver tapers, and trim'd up the night.' 

C. IX. St. 153. 



The former may perchance have been 
derived from Shakespeare's Queen Mab; 
the latter recalls Titus Andronicus (iv. 2), 
' The tapers of the sky.' Could he possibly 
have intended Shakespeare under the mask 
of Marino, as C. iv. st 1 10 f 

* Whose Consort to complete, aforehand came 

Marino*s Genius, with a voice so high, 

That all the World rang with Adonis' Name. 

Unhappy Man, and Chaise I O what would thy 
Brave Must have done in such a Thtfu as Mine, 
Whk:h makes Profdnmss almost seem Divine 1 ' 

For a scholar there are very few classi- 
cal appropriations. I question if he knew 
Dante, albeit one dif corresponds to another 
in * Paradise,* as thus : — 

' All Saints and Angels knew their proper Station, 
And lov'd it best, because it was their own.' 

So in * Paradise ' (in. 11. 69-72, Gary) :— 

* Brother! our will 
Is, in composure, settled by the power 
Of Charity, who makes us will alone 
What we possess, and nought beyond desire.' 

*Thou in life's scene hast but one part 
to play' (C. XX. st 181) is a commonplace 
in literature, but finely wrought out in 
Calderon's * El Gran Teatro del Mundo.' 

A quaint conceit is this : — 

' So of a Thousand Vessels great and smalt 
Into the Ouan thrown, though some receive 
A larger portion of the Waves, yet all 
Brim full are aU'd.' C. xxiv. st. 155. 

So— quoting from memory — ^Jeremy Taylor, 
' I shall be as full as St Paul, but my vessel 
will be smaller than his.' It were easy to 
multiply parallels; but these must suffice 
for the present. I pass to — 

II. FSUCITOUS AND MEMORABLE ThINGS« 

The word-painters of our day are so profuse, 
not to say spendthrift, in their epithets — like 
the modem pre-Raffaelites in their * garish' 
colours — ^that it is due to the early employers 
of elect and apt epithets to mark and in- 
wardly digest them. Epithets that have 
since grown vulgar and commonplace, when 
originally used were the outcome of search- 



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ing eye and finely touched ear, and keen- 
discriminating observation and comparison. 
To have recognised the look oi the under- 
part of the willow leaves, and the gradual 
transmutation of autumnal tints, is declara- 
tive of infinitely more than mere eyesight. 
And so in other things transfigured by the 
light that comes from neither sea nor shore, 

* Psyche * I think is pre-eminently felicitous 
in its epidiets. I would first of all, here, 
illustrate this, italicising the wcxds on which 
I seek to fix attention :' — 

' He slofd his flight to blest Arabia's Meads.' 

(Vol I. p. X4/Sa.) 

' His wish'd return doth feast her hungry view.' 

(Ibid. p. ax/isa.) 

' Never did whiter foam 
Smoke on the Ocean's stormy face. ' {IHd, p. 90/29. ) 

' The doubtful skin of Polypus did ne'er 

Slide through such various looks.' {Ibid. p. 64/47.) 

* forceth me 
To stare so long on the unrewarding skies.' 

{Ibid. p. 66/75.) 

' Just as the clownish Rocks in pieces dash 
The streams, whkh gently oome their sides to wash/ 

{Ibid* p. 79/160.) 

' That can^lainistg story rfthe Tide.* (Ibid. p. 77/945.) 

' When in a stealing preface to the flood 

The first streams slily creep.' (Ibid. p. 79/xa) 

' Recover Psyche from her shawuful glory.' 

(Ibid. p. 97, ArgL) 

* So when a burly Tempest rolls his pride 

About the world.' (Ibid. p. 9^253.) 

* A headlong foaming Boar there makes his path 
White with the scum of his intemperate wrath.' 

(Ibid. p. i47/9a-) 

* Most calcining Purity.' (Ibid. p. 101/64.) 

' He thought of Poison ; but could move no friend 
To lend him that destroying courtesy* (Ibid. p. 261/998.) 

' The brused Clouds in floods their sorrows ponr'd 
And all the weather-beaten Welkin nxor'd.' 

(Ibid. p. X9S/993.) 

■ The tatter'd Waves against the Shores were flung.' 

(Ibid. p. 198/224.) 

1 While in the larger ' representative paMages,* I have given 
■peoific reference to the canto and staaas, in nr/m and onward 
I give vol, page, and stanza. 



' The inheritance of this inchanting Pain.* 

(Vol. II. p. 1/8.) 

'A Thousand waspish Syllogisms.' (Ibid. p. 8/103.) 

' Feast there the hunger of thy wondering eyes.' 

(IHd. p. 18/14.) 

• To satisfy 
Her eye's profoundest hunger with that store 
Of royal Chear.' (Ibid. p. 133/144.) 

* Blind notions tumbled in his troubled brsin.' 

(Ibid. p. 33/945.) 

' What voyages will silly swallows take 

Warm courteous seasons round the world to chase.* 

(Ibid. p. 36/9.) 

' The staring People's stony eye.' (Ibid. p. 45/142.) 

* Ravens and Scritchowls thrust 
Theh- sooty pinions through the swarthy air.' 

(Ibid. p. 46/147.) 

* The gnidous com/brtable skies. ' (Ibid. p. 47/166.) 

' The sealed Den 

(Ibid. p. 56/31.) 



Of hungry Death.' 

' Love's loyal disobedience.' 



(Ibid. p. 63/14^.) 



' A progeny of canonieed Fictions, 
Religious Lyes, and reverend contradictions.' 

(Ibid. p. 116/90.) 

• Her eye's pro/oundest hunger.* (Ibid. p. 133/144-) 

' The surly Sea, who in his boiling wrath 
Against the shore with mountainous Waves doth make.' 

(Ibid. p. 143/9.) 

' In some shore-girted measurable StBL* {Ibid. p. 157/2x7.) 

* But earnest Hunger always toU'd the chfane 
Which sourtly her admonished to eat' 

(Ibid. p. 161/980.) 

Our Glossarial Index is a well-nigh in- 
exhaustible mine of expressive words. 

Of memorable things in 'Psyche' the 
choice is truly ample. Judging by mjrself 
there are throughout those brief, terse, 
unforgetably-put things that your hastiest 
Reader can scarcely fail to lay up in his 
memory. 

As before I select a number, giving head- 
ings to each — a good century that still leaves 
other centuries behind. 

I. Fruitfulness. 
' Like an imperial Branch, whose teeming Root 
Dips in a living Fount its blessed foot' (Vol L p. 17/88.) 



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a. J/mA 

* Her boons let foolish Fortune throw 
On worthless heads ; more glorioiis 'tis by fax 
A Diadem to merit, than to wear.' (Vol. I. p. 91/149.) 

3. Passion. 

* His shadow's bliss she envies, which hath free 
Leave his dear Bodie's Follower to be.' 

(IHd, p. 21/152.) 
4. Lust. 
' Thos hot or cold, some way she doth devise 
To feast on him her Touch as well 's her Eyes.' 

(IHd, p. 21/1SS.) 

5. Lauhiom. . 

' Dear Hypocrite, I know thy plot, and by 
Love's Powers I swear, thy value grows but greater 
By that contraction : Thus heaven's Tapers are 
So much the hi^er as they less appear.' 

(IHd, p. 93/169.) 

6. ProdigUs, 

'Such prodigies axe past : No more must Evil 

Hope of a I^dfer to make a DeviL' (IHd, p. 24/196. ) 

7. ChctsHty, 
'Joseph's to Prison sent : a place less warm 
To him, but sweeter than his Lady's arm.' 

(IHd, p. 27/240.) 

8. Truth, 

* High Tenth's more modest than the humblest Lie.' 

(IHd. p. 31/39.) 

9. TemftatioH, 

* Never let 
The yeOding innocent Tfaider suffer blame 
For taking fire, when she 's beset with flame.' 

(IHd, p. 33/76.) 

xa Modat Biauty, 
' But dream not that the Court's all gaudy scene 
WOl e'r present her to thy longing eye : 
No public glaring Gem is she, but in 
Abstrusest shades of virtuous modesty 
Delights to glimmer. Thus from common Day 
To private Night slip all the Stars away.' 

(IHd, p. 34/82.) 

XX. Blushes, 

* Blushes, though Blame's own Colours, are notblam'd : 
The greatest shame is not to be asham'd.' 

(IHd, p. 39/xSS.) 
12. Humility. 
' Whilst in this Paradoxe's rapture she 
Breathes forth her Piety ; the Grtues by 
Her, strong Dispute against it, clearer see 
Th' Illustrious Truth of her Humility. 
(Thus when the blushing Rose her self doth dose 
Up in her bud, her sweetness widest flows.)' 

(Ibid. p. 48/55.) 



13. Moral Wildenuss. 
* Fear's wild Realm is not the A^demess 
But that foul Breast where Guilt the dweller is.' 

(Vol I. p. 54/131.) 
14. Moral Chaos. 
'Abortive Embryos^ unformed Lust, 
Pinfeathered Fancies, and half-shap'd Desires, 
Dim dawns kA fondness, doubtful seeds of Rust, 
Glimmering embers of corruptive Fires, 
Scarce something, and yet more than nothing was 
That mystic Chaos, that dead-living Mass,* 

(Ibid, p. 59/209.) 

15. Prosperity, 
' Prosperity, how false art thou unto 
Thy blessed Name, who with a comly Cheat 
Unwary Hearts so potently dost woo, 
That thine unstable Bottom they forget ; 
And think thy foot sore on a Rock doth stand. 
Whilst thy foundation is the faithless Sand. ' 

(IHd. p. 61/z.) 

z6. Vision, 
' Heaven's not so high, nor glares the Sun so wide 
But I can force Him in these Orbs of mine 
Flrom' mom to ev'n to roll his vastest pride : 
The bashful jealous Stars which coyliest shine. 
Can by their busy twinckling no way spy 
From these of mine to snatch their wariest Eye.' 

(Ibid, p. 63/37.) 
17. Pseudo-sovereignty, 

* What Royal Nonsence is a Diadem 
Abroad, for one who 's not at home supreme?' 

(IHd, p, 79/1.) 

i8b Immodest^modesty, 

* Spruce Lawn to make her breast, though clothed, bare. ' 

(Ibid, p. 93/215.) 

19. Mental StarvaHom. 

* O how preposterously abstinent 

Are they who with all riotous Dainties strive 
To fortify the Belly, but can find 
No time to victual and reeruit the mind/* 

(Vol. n. p. 15/2x8.) 

' But stout Syneidesis oom p oaed was 
Of Metal as secure and brave as she : 
Her eyes, though clothed in the looks of Glass, 
Yet borrow'd nothing but iu Purity : 
Had they been brittle too, they bad been broke. 
But now they bor«, and smiled at the stroak.' 

(VoL I. p. 94/231.) 
21. Zeal. 
' They having thrice his foot-stool kissed, flew 
On flaming Zeal's stout wings through every sphear : 
No Lightning's flash e'r made more haste to view 
The East and West at once, than this swift Pair, 



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Ixiv 



MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION. 



To read! their Enands but ; or with more light 
Did all SpecUtors' startled eyes affirighL' 

(Vol I. p. 98/15.) 

aa. GtntU force, 
' Strong were the Blows, and op'd themselves the way 
Down to the bottom of their Mark, but yet 
Both sweet and silent Thus the noble Ray 
Dischaig'd from Tiian's eye doth never hit 
The solid Crystal, but with dainty force 
Quite through and through it takes iu harmless course. ' 

{Uid. p. xoo/59.) 

33. Sea-shore, 
* To check their pride and fury, set a guard 
Of most invincible though feeble Sand.' 

{/M, p. t05/xa9w) 

94. Silence, 
' The porter Silence, with his finger at 



His mouth.' 



{IHtL p. s 10/198. ) 



25. Adam and Eve, 

* He views himself more soft and sweet in Bve^ 
Eve reads in Him her self more fixt and grave : 
Either from other's look themselves receive, 
As fast returning what they taking gave. 

Two streams thus meeting, find and loose each other 
I' tb' kind pellucid bosom of his brother.' 

(md. p. 113/247.) 

a6. Unshamed Nakedness, 

* They naked were, if flax, beasts' skins and hairs, 
And excrements* the sole Apparel be : 

But who will tax the Sun, the Moon, the Stars, 

The Diamond, Crystal, Coral, Ivory 
Of nakedness, because the cloths they wear 
None but their native beams and beauties are? 

' A Robe of Innocence and Purity 

FVom head to foot embrac'd them round about ; 

Transmitting their pure features to the eye. 

But letting no unseemly shame peep out. 
They naked were of every borrow'd dress. 
And naked of what you count nakedness*' 

(IHd, p. X14/950-X.) 

97. K$tewUdge» 

* How bright a Mom of Science then will rise 
In your large Soul by this enlightning Treet 
My breast is shallow, narrow are mine eyes, 
But wide and brave is your Capacity ; 

So wide, that Wisdom's deepest Seas may find 
Sufficient chanels in your mighty mind.' 

{IHd. p. 1x6/385.) 

98. YUlding, 

* With uncheck'd Madness then she rush'd at length 
To shew her Weakness by her willful strength.' 

\Jhid, p. X 16/391.) 



39. Original Sin, 
' Yet caU not God unjust, who suffers thus 
Poor harmless Babes e'r they be bom, to die : 
Unsinning Sinners ; strangely vicious. 
Not by their Faults but their Affinity : 
He 's righteous still and kind ; and knows a way 
Through Wrath and Judgment. Mercy to display.' 
(VoLLp. xxg/396.) 

3a Delicacy, 

' But trembling she 
Vail'd in the scarlat of her modest cheek.' 

\Jbid, p. 135/79.) 

3X. Ckrisimas-dtgf at Betklekem. 

* Her softest feathers H^tiiilrr thither sent 
To be a pillow for the Infants head ; 
For sure no harm the honest Season ment 
When in the Cave his fluttering Snow he spread : 

But at his piesenoe into tears it fell, 
Check'd by a whiter chaster Spectacle,' 

(IHd. p. 130/158.) 
3a. Specious lie, 

* For Lyes embroider'd upon Verity, 

The Poison of the vholsome groundwork are.' 

{/^id, X36/3S0.) 

33. The Sun, 

' Morning out had sent 
The flaming Giant to his daily race.' {Ihid, p. 139/393.) 

34. Sand-Storm. 

* Behold these needless Banks of Sand, which have 
No Sea to limit but this Ocean 

Of Barrenness; where when the Winds conceive 
HighswoU'n displeasure, and to battle ran 
Bandying their mutual Blasts a thousand ways 
A storm of dry and parching rain they raise.' 

{IHd, p. X47/86.) 

35. Anchorites. 

* Yet shall this hideous Region appear 
So precious unto future Saints, that they 
Will seek their harbour no where else but here, 
And make these Sands the shore where they will lay 

Their Vessels safe from all those Storms, whose rage 
Revels on secular Life's unfaithful stage.' 

{/Hd. p. u^iaj.) 

36. Prosperity, 

* Idolise with them the Rising Sun.' {IHd. p. 156/335.) 

37. Murder win out, 
* Though sure Mortality 
On Bian attends, Man's blood can never die. 

(Uid, p, X58/365.) 

38. The damned-welcome, 
' When at his Coming, lo, th' infernal Pit 
Was mov'd ; where every damned Prince arose 



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Ixv 



From bis salphareonfl throne of pangs, and met 
This more deserving Tyrant^ onto whose 
Incomparable Salvageness thej knew 
DammaHom's Pnrcgative was doe.' 

(Vol I. p. i6i/30s) 
39. Famine. 
' Her legs are two &int crinckling Props ; her feet 
Already mouldring, haste their grave to meet.' 

{/Hd. p. X66/50.) 

4a Light. 

* Thus honest Day must chase out thievish night' 

(Hid, p. X69/86U) 

41. /did, 
' No drop she left nor Cmmb, to make reply 
To that moat earnest Call of thousand Veins, 
Whose pritty craving mouths incessantly 
Sn'd for their due relief : her dearest gains 
She counU by their Undoing, and makes all 
Their Cries, the Musick of her Festival' 

{/Hd. p. x68/8a) 

4a. Instinct. 
•Alas that Beasts much more than Men should know 1' 

(IHd, p. 171/133-)* 

43. Christ. 

' What wonder then if thus it happen'd now 

The mighty only Heircf Heav'n was here ; 

He, for whose high and best-deserving Brow 

Eternity was busy'd to prepare 
That Sun-outshining Crown, which flaming Is 
Upon his Incarnation's lowliness I' {Ibid, p. 171(106.) 

44* TkeSttn, 

* So Titan mounted on his flying throne 

Of flaming glory, sweepeth through the skies.' 

{Ibid. p. X75/181.) 

45. Albion. 
' There Neptune chose thine Albion for his bride. 
And plac'd her, as a better World, aside.' 

{Ibid. p. 179/239) 
46. Thejinal Temptation of Christ. 
' So at the Lightning of thy Lord's Reply 
This flighted Globe of Cheats made haste to melt 
And nothing of this Universal Lye 
Remain'd, but Ashes ; whose strong vapor smelt 
So hideously rank, that ev'n the steam 
Of Stinch her self, to this would Odours seem.' 

{Ibid. p. 181/373.) 

47. End fmst^les thi Means. 
' He pleads the sanctity of his Intent, 
And makes heav'n Patron of his hell-bred cause.' 

{Ibid p. 183/s.) 

1 So C xviL St ao3 ^— 

'They botrow from die Swim' School, wherein 
How many Beasts moM learned are than Men 1 ' 

46 



48. Luxury. 

' His Skin perfumed Unguenu ne'r bedew'd 
With supple Flattery of delicious sweat' 

(Vol. I. p. 189/97.) 

49. Martyr. 

' NaU'd &st to this strange Honor was the Saint, 
Array'd in Scarlet from his own rich Veins.' 

{Ibid. p. X93/X3X.) 

SO. St. John. 
' John was the last : but first and highest in 
His dear esteem who is himself Most high : 
O blessed Soul^ in whose delicious shrine 
Divinity so much rejoic'd to lie 1 
JESVS indeed lov'd all the rest; but He 
Not only lov'd, but was in love with Thee.' 

{Ibid. p. I93/ISS-) 

51. Truth stronger than Lies. 
' And heav'n forbid, but Truth as strong should be 
As undermining lies and flattery.' {/bid. p. 196/196.) 

5a. Christ in the Tempest. 

* The mutinous Billows saw his awful Look, 
And hush'd themselves all dose into their Deep : 
The Sea grew tame and smooth ; the Thunder hrdke 
Its threatning ofP; forth durst no Lightning peep, 

But kept its black Nest, now outshined by 
The flashing Mandates of its Master's Eye.* 

{/bid. p. X99/347.) 

53. Calm after storm. 

' The Clouds in sunder brake, 
And having dear'd the Scene of these loud Wars, 
Left Heaven's five face all full of smiling Stars.' 

{Ibid. p. 199/248.) 

54. Quietude. 

* But ne'r did Air put on so calm a face, 
When every Wind to its own home was blown. 
And Heav'n of all its storms deliver'd.' 

{Ibid. p. 300/394.) 

55. False hair. 

* Her Tresses, which indeed were Knots of Snakes, 
She overlaid with lies of dainty Hair.' {/b. p. 319/1x5.) 

56. Noah's Drunhenness. 

* But now he Drunk no more, the Wine drunk him. 
And swaUow'd up both Man and Saint and all.' 

(Vol. II. p. a/ai.) 

57. Drunkenness. 
'So shipwrack'd was his Soul in this Red Sea.' 

{Ibid. p. 3/33.) 

58. Sin pervasive. 
' Alas, the holyest Ground too often breeds 
As well as wholesom flowers, invenom'd Weeds.' 

{Ibid. p. 3/38.) 



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MEMORIAI^INTRODUCTION. 



Hell'fiend€ss, 

* She spying now ho: royal Father there, 
Thus b^'d his benediction on her knee ; 
Bless Me, O awful Sirt ; and grant me here 
Some tools of fresh new-fashion'd Cruelty : 

These Souls are us'd too kindly ; all their Pains 
Grow stale and cold, familiar their Chains.' 

(Vol II. p. 30/53) 

59. Bets have stings. 

' Though the Bees delicious Honey bring, 
They always end in an invenom'd Sting.' 

{IHd. p. 3/40.) 

60. Preached Wind. 

* They who feed on preached wind, 
Which vamly bubbles in their wanton ear.' 

{/did. p. x6/aa3.) 
61. Lie. 

* But see thou mouldst up some atbletick lye. 
Whose burly bulk all Truth may over-bear.' 

{IHd. p. 3i/s8.) 

63. Self-cofifidenee, 

' Ah silly Confidence, which dares erect 

lu pile on fragil Dust/ the Bubble thus 

When puflTd with widest pride, is soonest crackt ; 

Thus when the foolish Smook's voluminous 
Ambition, aims to reach the lofty sphere, 
It quickly vanisheth to empty air.' {/Hd. p. 35/118.) 

63. St. Peter. 

* Denyed Jesus would not him deny. 

But spake His pardon by His gracious Look : 
Yet so that Peter might withal descry, 
Deep-written in that most pathetick book. 
The piteous copy of that causeless smart, 
With which his Falshood pierc'd his Saviour's heart' 

(IHd, p. 35/136.) 

64. Loving glance. 

* Powerful and long the Sermon was which He 
Preach'd in th' epitomy of this short Glance.' 

{Uid, p. 35/197.) 

65. LoohofLove. 
' Thus when the Sun on sturdy Ice but looks. 
It strait repenteth into running brooks.' 

[IHd p. 35/138.) 
66. Falsehood. 
< The sanctuary of some strong-built Lye.' 

{IHd, p. a6/i4a) 
67. SfiU, 

* To feed the Luxury of hungriest Spight* 

{IHd. p. 40/68.) 

68. AHmelech, 

*onhisSin 
The Fabrick of his high Content he built, 
And measured his Tritunph by his Guilt' 

(IHd. p. 41/74.) 



69. The Vine, 

' Thus when the tender Vine is nailed fiut 
About her Prop, and by the praning Knife 
Robb'd of her Limbs / she taketh no distaste 
At all those deep intrenchmenu on her life. 
But with a bounteous Vintage strives to chear 
The heart of him who wounds and mangles her.' 
(VoL IL p. 41/83.) 
70. Come Down, 
' He could Come down ; did you not fix Him there. 
Not with your Nails, but with your stronger sisis. 
He could Come down, were but His Life as dear 
To Him as yours : but on His Wrongs He wins, 
And by Love's indefatigable Might 
Strives to subdue the utmost spight of sfi^ht," 

{IHd, p. 43/ro5-) 
71. Conscious gmiU. 

* still they cast about 
Their doubtful Eyes, and in their count'nanoe spread 
A pale confession of their guilty Dread.' 

{IHd, p. 46/157.) 
73. Christ s Tomb, 

* No Temple is more holy than this Grave.' 

{IHd, p. 53/343.) 
73. The Cross. 
' He sees the Cross in goodly Banner spread. 
And shining with imperial gallantry ; 
He sees that precious Blood which made it red. 
Adorn it now with dreadful Majesty. 
He sees it streaming in the swarthy air. 
And at its awful motion mdu for fear.' 

{Ibid. p. 58/57.) 
74. Judas. 
■ He look'd the next Step on his woful Head 
With equal Pressure surely fix'd should be ; 
His Hetul, which next to crushed Satan's did 
Desenrt preeminence in Misery, 
But Jesus tum'd, and would not melt him by 
The burning glass of His indignant Eye,* 

{IHd, p. 58/70.) 
75. Death in Chrisfs Tomb, 

* Such floods of living Light from Jesus' s eyes 
Broke forth, as with more splendor stuff*d the Grave 
Than swells fidr Phebus's globe ; Death scalded flies 
About, and hunts through an the dasell'd Cave 

To scape, if possible, that Lustre's ire 

Whose bus'ness seem'd to light htx funeral Jlre* 

{Ibid. p. 59/78.) 
76. Excess of light, 
'Thus those iriio gaxe on Phebus, cannot see 
Him for his too much Visibility.' {Ibid, p. 66/azs.) 

77. Attraction tf light . 

* And yet the worthless Dew must needs aspire 
To Heav'n it self, when once it 'gins to glow 
With Phebus's sprightful and attracting Fire.' 

{Ibid, p. 76/337.) 



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Ixvii 



78. HtU, 

• What boots it Thee Damnation's King to be, 
If thy Tast Realms depopulated lie ; 

If thy presumed Slaves revolt from Thee 
ABd to thy hated Rwals standard fly ; 

If Emptiness must fill thy Jails of Pain ; 

If all thy sulphury Gulfs must flame in vain 1 ' 

(Vol. II. p. 89/161.) 

79. Ass preaching. 

* If God once preach'd by Balaam's Ass, why may 
Not Satan do as much by These to-day? ' 

{Ibid, p. 90/178.) 

80. Death, 
' For lo, the pallid characters of Death 

{Ibid. p. 99/63.) 



Star'd in her daunted face.' 



81. Infant-Death, 

* From our nuptial Bed 
' A lovely flower no sooner peeped out, 
But it into the grave withdrew its head.' 

{Ibid. p. 111/15.) 

8a. Th€Sun, 

* For though his radiant Largise on the Moon, 
And every Star, and all the World besides 
He poureth out ; yet still the copious Sun 

On in his undiminish'd Glory rides.' {Ibid. p. 1x4/68.) 

83. Liberality, 
' Though thousand Brooks it grudges not to fill. 
The teeming Fountain lives in fulness still.' 

{Ibid. p. 114/68 : Cf. 103. 'God's Bounty/) 

84. Power cf weakness. 

* With monstrous Weakness conquers her own Might. 
And to her fatal Wo yields with delight.' 

{Ibid, p. 117/115.) 

85. Painted roof. 

' on the top 
Art plac'd a Quhe of Angels hovering, 
And made the gorgeous Roof all seem to sing.' 

{Ibid. p. 1 19/145.) 

86. A curl. 
' A Curie of silly feeble Hair, which is 
The Sport and Scorn of every idle Wind. 
Like chains of sturdy Adamant can seize 
And captivate thy most unmanly Mind : 
Whidi vain Captivity of thine makes Hair 
The current granted Name of Lochs to wear.' 

{Ibid. p. 125/16.) 

87. Fleshly lave. 
' Then ponr'st thou out thy Soul for thine Oblation 
On her smooth Lip, thine Altar of delight ; 
Whence thou reoeiv'st with joyous adoration 
The Blessings of her Kiss. Her calmy sight 



Thou think'st thy Heav'n, and in her smiling Eyes 
Read'st all the Sweets of thy Fool's Paradise.' 

(Vol II. p* 125/23.) 

88. The Sea. 

' So stands the craggy Promontory sure, 
With head triumphing o'r the frustrate Storm. 
When all the Winds against its Site conjure. 
And thousand Waves with high-swoU'n fury arm : 
It stands, and sees the Blasts blown out of breath, 
And all the Billows shattered beneath.' 

{Ibid. p. 128/69.) 

89. Luxury. 

' Softer than those Carpets are whose sweet 
And silken Kisses flatter Princes' feet.' 

{Ibid. p. 133/131) 

90. Wilfulness, 
' For Highnoon 's dark to those who will not see ; 
And Feathers Lead, when Men will Ured be.' 

{Ibid, p. 144/16.) 

91. Intemperance. 

* Bacchus's wrangling Squires, whose strange Contest 
Was, who should prove the best at being Beast.' 

{Ibid. p. 148/81.) 

92. Idleness. 

* No pains so painful are to those who know 
Their Soul's Activity, as lazy Rest : 

And on my foes, might I free Curses throw ; 

My worst should be. what Drones esteem the best : 

No Imprecations would I shoot, but this ; 

And danm them to no Hell but Idleness.' 

{Ibid. p. 149/95-) 

93. Idle Talh. 

' That Foam of useless Prattle, which doth ride 

Upon the idely-busy tongues of vain 

And shallow Mortals.' {Ibid, p. 152/139.) 

94. Gluttony. 

* We wrong, alas, we wrong the bloody Paws 
Of Lyons. Panthers. Tigres, Bears, and Wolves ; 
Yea and the direful Plagues relentless Jaws, 

By calling them most salvage : We our Selves 
More deadly Plagues, and Beasts more cruel are ; 
For our own Lives with our own Teeth we tear.' 

(Ibid p. 153/160.) 

95. Vanity in Dress, 

* Alas the Wounds of Silk more dangerous far 
Than those of sharpest Swords and Arrows are.' 

{Ibid. p. 154/175.) 

96. WhiUTear, 
' O no I a Tear 's a nobler thing than so, 
Nor must be squander'd in such vain ezpence. 



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No oriental Pearls, though married to 
Richest Embroideries, shew such pretence 
To Beauty, as those predons Beads, whose Mine 
Lives in the fertile womb of humane Eyn.' 

(Vol II. p. 159/336.) 
97. Earth and Hwvtn, 

* So though the mariner with busy Care 
Waits on his Card, yet oft he lifts his eye 
To drink direction from that trusty Star 
Which darteth on his Voyage, Certainty ; 

And by this mixed study safely rides 
Over the proudest and the furthest Tides.' 

(Ibid, p. 161/370.) 
98. NobU Self. 
' Remember but thy noble strength, and dare 
To be thy self : no Arrow with such speed 
Snatcheth its shortest journey through the Air ; 
No lightning with such nimble wings can spread 
Its self from East to West ; as thou canst fly 
Ev'n to the crest of all Sublimity. ' (Ibid. p. 165/15.) 

99. Dignify. 

* Stout-winged Eagles ne'er were made to be 
Consorts to flitting Dunghil flies.' {/bid. p. 165/16.) 

loa Ambi/iom, 

* That Admiration which ambitious He 
Hunts for with studious and palefaoed pain.' 

{/bid. p. 165/19^) 
loi. Vanity. 
' Huge Abysses of Vacuity.' {/bid. p. 168/65.) 

103. Specious lie. 

* A mighty lye, dress'd up and trim'd with vain 
Embellislunents ; whose outside flatteries 

Make blear-ey'd credulous fools Delusion's prize.' . 

{/bid. p. 168/67.) 
103. GoiTs Bounty. 

* For as the Sun on every Star doth poure 
The Bounty of his inezhausted beams ; 
Inriching them with his illustrious store, 

Who else could n'er have kindled their own flames : 
So all the Raies of Goodness which are read 
In Creatures' eyes, are but the Sparks of God.' 

(/bid. p. 168/69.) 

104. Education. 

' That never Soil was so Ingenuous yet. 
But. if not duly worried, digg'd and plow'd, 
Hanow'd and torn, and forced to be fit 
By such sharp usage ; with a rampant Croud 
Of useless Thorns and Thistles would defeat 
All hopes of honest advantageous Wheat.' 

{/bid. p. 178/10.) 
105. Suicide. 
' . . . Venturous Cowards, who in fear to fight 
With Pain, Loss, Shame, or Bondage, chose to Die? 
Far be it I should Valour's Title give 
To those who durst not do so much as live.* 

{/bid. p. dxi/166.) 



ic6. Sleep. 

* Surcharged now with J^ofs unbounded store, 
She laid her down in sweet submission to 

This pleasing Load, and sunk into the deep 
But soft untroubled gulf of downy sleep. ' 

(VoL XL p. 390/78.) 

107. God the Father. 

' A Thrtme of pure and solid splendour filmed. 

On which the Monarch 0/ immensity 

With such intollerable Brightness flamed 

That none of all the purest Standers by 
Could with Chenibick or Senq>hick eyes 
His vast Irradiations comprise.' (/bid. p. 334/138.) 

X08. Loss. 

* If Lucifer had never walk'd upon 
Complete Felicities transcendent Stories, 

If he had ne'r beheld Heav'n's radiant Throne, 
Nor grown acquainted with the Court of Glories ; 
His Loss had finite been ; and though he fell 
To Ruin's Gulf, his Hell had not been HelL' 

(/^t<f. p. 337/z8ol) 

109. Praise ef HuwUHty. 

* And tlU Dust's Sons by Humbleness can grow 
As high as that, in vain they strive to be 
True Riches' heirs.' . . . 

' Pride threw us down when we were perch'd too high ; 
Our ladder to get up 's HumiUty.' 

(Vol I. p. 95/a45-6.) 
' By thee th' imbraved Heart 
Aspires and readies still to be more low.' 

(/bid. p. Z3z/iz.) 

' [Moisture attracted by the Sun] . . . complies 
In mere Submission to possess the skies.' 

{/bid. p. 137/ZO8.) 

' In this Abyss of thy Humility.' {/bid. p. 133/196.) 

' O sacred Impudence of Humility.' {/bid. p. 189/93.) 

' His followers roust learn by stooping down 
To raise their Heads to their Supernal Crown.' 

{/bid. p. 19S/190.) 
' Through Humility's safe shady bowers.' 

(Vol II. p. 85/115.) 

* [Church] Though its foundation here 
In low and scom'd Humility it lays. 

It mounts above the Qouds in sacred pride 
And in the Heav'n of Heav'ns its head doth hide.' 

{/Hd. p. 86/za8.) 

• The Door 
Is built so low, and so extremely narrow, 
That Worms, not Men, seem fit to scramble through.' 

{/bid. p. 138/70.) 

Cf. Spenser's F. Q., B. l, C. x., st 5, with 
the last 



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Ixix 



xxo. Gold, 
' Money is that bewitching thoughtful Curse 
Which keeps the heart dose Pris'ner in the Purse.' 

(Vol I. 907/361.) 

' Huge ador'd vacuities.' [IHd, p. 216/68 stq,) 

' With contemplation of inchanting Money : 
Their fond thint's Milk, their foolish hunger's Honey.' 

{/did, p. ax7/8a.) 

'Talk not to him of penniless Piety; 
Whate'r it cost, he must have Coin, or die.' 

{IHd, p. ax9/xo5.) 

* Gold's inchanting splendor.' (11. p. 67/aoa, seg.) 

' in tedious Earth 
Let Muckworms delve, and grope. Content to gain.' 

{/did. p. 159/241.) 

III. NOTABIUA AND ODDITIES. — OUT 

Glossarial Index will guide the student- 
reader to very many things that belong to 
that class of 'NotabUia' enshrined in 
Southe/s Commonplace Books (4 vols.) — 
not so much brilliancies as materials for iUus- 
tration of history and biography and the 
lights and shadows of human experiences, 
beliefs, superstitions, manners, customs, 
usages, traits of character, and the like. 
Thus I am not aware — ^to name this first — 
of any contemporary literature wherein you 
wiU find so much energy of scorn and passion- 
ate detestation of the Puritans. It startles 
as it grieves us, to mark how ingenious 
and disingenuous this undoubtedly good and 
I should say naturally amiable man is in 
making opportunities for turning aside to 
have a gird at them. His vituperation is so 
exaggerate and so droll, so indiscriminate and 
intolerant, as to become ludicrous. His 
whip of scorpions is wielded with a will, but 
beats innocuously the air, in that he flagellates 
phantoms of his narrow brain, and never once 
kits the Puritans themselves as they actually 
were. His invective ought to be quite in- 
valuable to present-day High Church and 
(so-called) LowChurch ('Evangelical') clergy, 
who deal out abuse of the same kind, and 
un-church all who remain outside of Epis- 
copacy, but in poorer and feebler language. 



At this time o' day, one can only have pity 
for either elder or modem purblind bigot 
with his idola of 'divinely-appointed Epis- 
copacy' and ritual and emblem exalted into 
sacraments, and all the rest of the miserable 
ecclesiastical y^/^^tm that usurps the name 
of Christianity. The Puritans of England, 
whether earlier or later, need no Apologists. 
Their direct transacting with the 'Living 
God' and Christ, their full and uigent 
'preaching' of the whole Gospel, their de^ 
vout and constant prayerfulness, their faith 
in God the Holy Ghost, their integrity of 
motive, their courage of opinion and prin- 
ciple, their holy and beautiful lives, their 
splendid witness-bearing, their dauntless 
heroism before kings, make them for all time 
illustrious. Over-against them you have 
your Laudian type of Churchman — rare 
exceptions only proving the rule — ^with learn- 
ing of a sort, and a rubbishy sort, childish 
bondage to patristic misunderstanding of the 
'written Word,' fatal as false exaltation of 
'The Church' above Christ Himself (twin 
with Papal exaltation of Mary at the expense 
of her divine Son and Saviour), the ' straiten- 
ing' of God's presence and benediction 
within their own small and insularly-provin- 
cial church, mournful shiftiness and diplo- 
macy of attitude toward the exploded and 
dead superstitions of Popery and unpatriotic 
as unworthy Royalism, whereby the Kingdom 
was sought to be subordinated and sacrificed 
to the King. Our Worthy belonged to the 
school of Laud. What even that unhappy 
bishop (archbishop) wrote small, Dr. Joseph 
Beaumont wrote large. Nevertheless — ^speak- 
ing for myself—- you cannot help hking him 
as a ' fine old English gentleman all of the 
olden time,' just as to-day one is 'taken' by 
your nobly-working and consecrate High 
Churchman who knows no 'orders' but his 
own — at same time disdaining and ridiculing 
the very successor of the apostles who gave 
him his orders — because he is (as a rule) a 



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gentleman and a scholar ; whereas you are 
alienated by your Low Churchman who plays 
false and loose with awful words, and while 
holding diametrically opposite opinions and 
occupying an absolutely contradictory doc- 
trinal standing-ground, is more churchly 
than the High Churchman in bearing and 
act The mystery and the sorrow is that in the 
nineteenth century it should still be necessary 
to protest against an ecclesiasticism so anti- 
scriptural and so un-catholic. This leads me 
to notify that as Dr. Joseph Beaumont's 
Churchism was sectarian and superstitious, 
so his bearing toward the great Common- 
wealth was alike treasonous and unheroic. 
For be it marked and remarked that his 
taunts and sneers, his gibes and scoffs, his 
sarcasm and scorn — co-equal in 'Notabilia 
and Oddities ' with those on the Puritans — 
found faint and timorous utterance in the 
first edition of ' Psyche ' (1648). They were 
(substantially) reserved for the posthumous 
edition of 1702, when it was 'safe' to per- 
petrate them. Such cowardice of opinion 
reminds of Mary (*the Bloody') in her 
striking at thelowand poor, never or unseldom, 
at the noble and great, who could ' answer 
back' and 'dap their hands upon their 
swords' as our Laureate puts it. This I 
must successively iterate and emphasise. And 
yet it must be borne in recollection, how 
profoundly we are all creatures of circumstance, 
and specifically that Beaumont moved in a 
circle whose very atmosphere was formative 
of just such types of opinion and conduct. 
There was no element of seeingness in him 
beyond his own Church. He mistook the 
roof of his cathedral for the dome of the 
Universe, and the fall of merest scaffolding 
for the fall of the skies. He was an Epis. 
copal anchorite ; a day-dreamer, utterly out 
of sympathy with those of his fellow-country- 
men whose stout and true hearts could 
recognise nothing * divine ' in what bore such 
undivine firuits in Church and State, and 



compelled them to fight to the death for 
civil and religious freedom. I cannot be 
righteously charged with uncharity or lack of 
'sweetness and light' when in gleaning 
« Notabilia and Oddities' out of 'Psyche' I 
pronounce an inevitable verdict on such things 
as everywhere abound in it As myself a 
Presbyterian in church-government and a 
Liberal in politics, I must criticise one who 
allowed himself to write as he did of prin- 
ciples and men and memories that are dear 
to me as my life-blood, and venerable in the 
estimate of all save a scarcely appreciable 
minority of the English-speaking race. I 
proceed now to bring together a few of these 
further ' Notabilia and Oddities ' of vitupera- 
tion and invective. First of all, here is one 
of the ' pictured visions ' of Ecclesia's Court 
viz., Presbyterianism (C. xix. st 120-122), an 
after-insertion of 1702, not of 1648, when it 
would have been manful to have dared it : — 

' But one strange Spoil (though but prophetick yet) 
More eminent and ugly than the rest 
Upon a special Pillar, high was set ; 
The Presbyterian God, demurely drest 

In solemn Weeds, spun all of Publick Weal, 

Pure Christian Libeny, reforming Zeal. 

His name was Covenant; and the Sacrifice 

He gormandiz'd. more vast then that of Bel^ 

Or of the Dragon ; for no smaller prize 

Than Church and State would serve his paunch to fill 

For which huge feast he had as long a Grace, 

And this ycleep'd the Directory was. 

But stretch 'd at length by this enormous Diet. 

The wretched IdoFs maw in sunder burst : 

Forthwith the Issue of his boundless Riot 

Flow'd out in millions of Sects, which curst 
Their monstrous Parent, and are here with meet 
Decorum rank'd and fetter'd at his feet' 

Again, C. xx. st 39 : — 

' Yea ev'n that Roundhead, like his Master's Foot 
Is clov'n, and into two new Monsters split : 
The Presbyterian (once the only Root, 
Now but a Branch,) and Independent; fit 

And hopeful Twins, and like to multiply 

Into a more-and-more-divided Fry.' 

As simple matter-of-fact, the infuriate Poet 
confounds 'Presbyterianism' with what his 



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Ixxi 



rancid imagination designates * miliums of 
sects.' Historically Presbyterianism has been 
not divisive, but solid and unified, though 
there has necessarily been variety of outward 
organisation. Fundamentally, this holds of 
Nonconformity broadly regarded; for whilst 
there have been admittedly separations and 
also oppositions ecclesiastically, these have 
always left their bklisfs in all the great 
essentials one and unchanged. So that in 
Nonconformity there is practically a more 
real unity than in either the Church of 
England or the Church of Rome. The 
divine Head of the Church commands and 
commends this unity in and toward Him. 
He nowhere exacts uniformity. He has 
promised to ' bring together ' into one * flock ' 
all who truly hold allegiance to Him and live 
by Him. He never has promised to con- 
stitute these into one 'fold' (or church 
visible). It was simply unhistoric and un- 
critical to so paint * the Presbyterian God.' 
I am the last to defend all that the Presby- 
terians did in their grand time of opportunity 
in England. I deplore their sectarianism, 
their intolerance ; I condemn their dogma- 
tism ; I renounce their hard-and-fast lines of 
^ divine right ' of Presbytery as against others ; 
but none the less have the Presbyterian 
churches of Christendom a splendid roll of 
achievement and character, while to-day 
they hold their own among all the churches 
in the work bemg done and in the character 
of the aggregate of their loyal sons and 
daughters. The Poet also blundered over 
* Independency v. Presbyterianism.' 

He thus puts the displacing of the Royal- 
ists in church and universities (C. xx. st 
20, 26-30) — again nearly all an after-inser- 
tion of 1702, and only partially and weakly 
ventured in 1648 : — 

' For from their Studies reprobated They 
Though unaociued, must Ejected be ; 
And sadly driVn to make wheie e'r they may 
The Unimae their UmvtnUy ; 



WhiUt in the J/«j»' Hives an upstart Breed 
Of misbegot intruding Drones succeed. 

For by the teeth of spightfiil Accusations 

Whetted by thousand Lies, they snarle and grin ; 

Then by the cnieler Jaws of Seguestrations 

Grind and devour their patient Pastors^ in 
Prodigious desire that in their stead 
They may by some rapacious Wolf he fed. 

Or if their Mercy let them live ; 'tis but 

To mock them by a killing Livelyhood, 

The Fifth Part; which is sooner spent than got, 

And that in getting ; thus they suck the blood 

They seemed to have left, and find a way 

To make their very Charity destroy. 

Religion's venerable Cedars^ They 

In whom the grand Apostles still survive ; 

Alas, must Root and Branch be torn away, 

And room to Shrubs and scrambling Brambles give ; 

VHe Underwoods, and their own Planter's shame ; 

Elders in nothing but their stinking name. 

In vain our kofy Mother's own Freehold 
That Title weareth, so unnatural be 
Her Sons, and sacrilegiously bold ; 
Unless Thou curb'st their cursed Liberty : 

Poor Church t she Bankrupt turns, except by Thee 

Her Patrimony she protected see. 

Nay Princes, upon whose majestick Head 

Gods Name was poured in the soared Unction^ 

No sooner are by Thee abandoned ; 

But in despigfat to their most auful Function 
Of all th' ingrateful and apostate Scum 
Of their own Vassals, they the Scorn become. ' 

So too C. xxiL St 181-182 : — 

' The reverend Captive knew it was in vain 

To ask their madness why it us'd him so ; 

Or what Offence of his had eam'd that Chain 

Which bound him to such ignominious Wo ; 
He was not now to learn, that sober Reason 
By this Committee would be voted Treason. 

In patient silence he attends their spight, 

Ready to stay, or go, to live, or die ; 

Not doubting but in Persecution's sight 

To yield's ihe surest way to Victory. 
Thus harmless Lambs are in their Suff'riogs mute, 
And never with the Butcher's Knife dispute.' 

This last couplet of st 181 was another 
of the insertions of 1702. 'Willing to 
wound and yet afraid to strike,' it was pru- 
dently — reserved. It is sufficient to answer 
to this that no one incumbent was ^ejected ' 



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MEMORIAL'INTRODUCTION. 



who accepted the Government, whilst as to 
the ' awftil Function ' of the unhappy king, 
he was false to it as to his own ' royal word/ 
until it became a prodigious but stem neces- 
sity to 'remove' him. Paradoxical is the 
sentiment (or sentimentalism) that makes 
moan over the one decollated head, and has 
no tear for the thousands who shed their 
blood like water for their country and their 
liberties, enforced of him. As to the 
maligned * Committee,' it is now admitted to 
have done its tr3ring and difficult work ten- 
derly and wisely. He has inefiable con- 
temptuousness for the unlettered (conceded), 
yet most godly ' mechanic ' men who, stirred 
into a very frenzy of compassion for the 
spiritually perishing multitudes of their fellow- 
men, sought to 'preach the Gospel,' and to 
gather companies of believing men and 
women into lowly eonventicles and chapels. 
Hearts yearning after the very 'peace of 
God,' touched and quickened of the Spirit 
of God, given visions of the ' wrath to come ' 
and of the redeeming love of God in Christ, 
could not be ' fed * on the stones-for-bread, 
the viper-for-egg, tendered them in 95 per 
cent of their 'Parish Churches;' and so 
they turned to the dear Lord Himself. It 
is an outrage on all of ' divine ' that is in 
Christianity to deny that He who at the 
first chose as His Apostles the illiterate and 
the lowly is limited for their successors 
to your stately scholars and imperious digni- 
taries and 'priests ' so-called. It is to belie the 
evidence and 'witness' of Himself in his 
own actual working not to see in the Chris- 
tian lives that result from this humbler 
ministry, His sanction. His co-operation. 
And so lowliest but Christ-recognised 
Preachers and Workers can afford to read 
with 'withers unwrung ' such objurgations as 
this (C. XII. St. 118-119), and which, as only 
denouncing the poor and defenceless, did 
valorously find its place in the volume of 
1648 (st 104-105): — 



'Inthedr^sofTfane; iHien Wealth and Pride 

Have fatned British hearts fit to defy 

All sacred Discipline, and to the Tide 

Of fhrioas Licence, and wild Ataxy 
Fkmgope the gap ; imhallow'd Hands wm dare 
From holy Fricsts this reverend Work to tear. 

MtekanUk Zeal, inspired by SaiHskmess, 

And by eothusiastick Ordination 

Of self-deluded Fancy CalTd to dress 

GoeTs Feast in Man's reformed misshapen fashion ; 

Will purest Purity it self defile, 

And by Heav'n's gale find out a way to HdL' 

Similarly C. xvi. st. 80-83, but another 
unheroic after-insertion of 1702 ! 

Once more as matter-of-fact, in the ranks of 
Nonconformity there were co-equal learning 
and culture with any of the Conformists. 
Man for man — taking the 'Two Thousand' 
of the Ejection of 1660-62 as types — those 
who became Nonconformists were, in every- 
thing that ' constituted ' true Ministers of the 
Gospel, among the most elect of the univer- 
sities. The books theological that live to- 
day, and that have been spiritual forces 
across the centuries, are mainly earlier by the 
Puritans and later by the Ejected. But our 
Poet's hardest hits were at the ' mechanic ' 
preachers and witness-bearers represented 
by such-an-one as George Fox the Quaker. 
Of him I will let Thomas Carlyle, in his 
* Sartor Resartus,' speak : — 

' " Perhaps the most remarkable incident in^Modem 
History/' says Tcufelsdrockh, "is not the Diet of 
Worms, still less the Battle of Austerlitz, Waterloo, 
Peterloo, or any other Battle ; but an incident passed 
carelessly over by most Historians, and treated with 
some degree of ridicule by others : namely, George 
Fox's making to himself a suit of Leather. Tills man, 
the first of the Quakers, and by trade a Shoemaker, 
was one of those, to whom, under ruder or purer form, 
the Divine Idea of the Universe is pleased to manifest 
itself; and, across all the hulls of Ignorance and 
earthly Degradation, shine through, in tmspeakable 
Awfulness, unspeakable Beauty, on their souls : who 
therefore are rightly accounted Prophets, God-pos- 
sessed ; or even Gods, as in some periods it has 
chanced. Sitting in his stall ; working on tanned 
hides, amid pincers, paste-horns, rosin, swine- 
bristles, and a nameless flood of rubbish, this youth 



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had nevertheless a Living Spirit belonging to him ; 
also an antique Inspired Volume, through which, as 
through a window, it could look upwards, and dis- 
cern its celestial Home. The task of a daily pair of 
shoes, coupled even with some prospect of victuals, 
and an honourable Mastership in Cordwainery, and 
perhaps the post of Thirdborough in his hundred, as 
the crown of long faithful sewing,»was nowise 
satisfaction enough to such a mind : but ever amid 
the boring and hammering came tones from that Ui 
, country, came Splendours and Terrors ; for this poor 
Cordwainer, as we said, was a Man ; and the Temple 
of Immensity, wherein as Man he had been sent to 
minister, was full of holy mystery to him. 

* « The Clergy of the neighbourhood, the ordained 
Watchers and Interpreters of that same holy mystery, 
listened with una£fected tedium to his consultations, 
and advised him, as the solution of such doubts, to 
' drink beer, and dance with the girls. ' Blind leaders 
of the blind 1 For what end were their tithes levied 
and eaten ; for what were their shovel-hats scooped- 
out, and their surplices and cassock-aprons girt-on ? 
and such a church-repairing, and chaffering, and 
organing, and other radcettng, held over that spot of 
God's Earth, — ^if Man were but a Patent Digester, 
and the Belly with its adjuncts the grand Reality T 
Fox turned from them, with tears and a sacred scorn, 
back to his Leather-parings and his Bible. Mountains 
of eneumbrance, higher than iCtna, had been heaped 
over that Spirit : but it was a Spirit, and would not 
lie buried there. Through long days and nights of 
silent agony, it struggled and wrestled, with a man's 
force, to be free : how its prison-mountains heaved and 
swayed tumultuously, as the giant spirit shook them 
to this hand and that, and emeiged into the light of 
Heaven I That Leicester shoe-shop, had men known 
it, was a holier place than any Vatican or Loretto- 
shrine."' (B. iii. c. i.) 

That will suffice for answer to Dr. Joseph 
Beaumont's un-Chiistly scorn for the lowly 
but Spirit-touched ' mechanic ' preachers and 
workers for * The Carpenter.' 

As was inevitable, Oliver Cromwell and 
his illustrious associates come in for choice 
'Notabilia and Oddities.' Thus stingingly 
and with unconscious blasphemy of com- 
parison does he 'arraign' the Protector 
— of course when he was gone (C. xiii. 
St. 272-278): — 

' Tlian This ; to whkdi no Copy near shall draw 
TiU Albiom with PaUstitu shall vy ; 

46 



When British Jews against their King a Law 
ShaU find, and make the Rout /or Justict cry ; 

When they a Pilate of their own shall get. 

And desperate Soldiers too, to do the feat. 

Unfortunate Judge f how rufully hast thou 
Condemn'd thy timorous Self in dooming Him / 
The time draws nigh, when Caius will not know 
Pilate for Cesar^s/rieud; thy dear Esteem 
And Office^ to their fatal evening draw, 
And Six Years more will make Thee feel the Law. 

The Law of Banishment ; when France shall see 
Thee to Vienna ty'd in strong Disgrace ; 
Where Hell shall to thy Soul displayed be, 
And make thy Conscience war against thy face, 

Mustring the Guilt of this unhappy Z>ay 

Before thine eyes in terrible array. 

Thy Ladies Message there again shall sound, 
And sting thy heart ; thine own Profession's there 
Of yesu*s Innocence, shall all rebound 
Upon thy thoughts, and thy Remembrance tear : 
That mocked Water there shall scald thee, and 
Revenge its wrong on thy polluted Hand. 

There shall thy Whips on Thee their Lashes turn ; 
There shall the Thorns plant Tortures on thy bead ; 
There to thy self each Stripe and Scof and Scorn 
Shall in full tale be duly numbered ; 

There thy prodigious Sentence back shall fly, 

And point black Pilate out asjit to die. 

Then shall the cruel Cross, the Nails, the Spear, 
March through thy thoughts, and slaughter thee alive ; 
TiU Crucify' d by thine 09m fatal fear. 
Thy Self meet vengeance to thy self shalt give. 
And from thy Hell above by cursed death 
Send thy despairing Soul to Hell beneath. 

So shall thine Hand thou thoughtst thou washt so white, 

Foully imbru'd in thine own horrid gore, 

An useful Copy to all Judges write 

Of what sure Doom Heav'n's righteous Wrath doth pour 
On them who warp Law's rule to Peoples' Lust, 
And make the Throne of Justice be Unjust.' 

Again, C. xvi. st. 107-114 (once more, 
after-insertion of 1702). Once more, and 
once more an after-insertion of 1702, C. 
XXIII. St. 20-21 : — 

* He sees no Levellers begin their Trade 
With Altars first, and then with Crowns; he sees 
No Temples Dens of Holy Robbers made, 
And ganison'd with strong Impieties; 

Temples, where under foot the Church is trod, 
And only Horses serv'd in stead of God. 

He heareth no Rebellion's Canons first 
Giving their dire Reports in Pulpits, and 



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Ixxiv 



MEMORIAL'INTRODUCTTON. 



As loud, as if indeed their Thunder bunt 
From Heav'n'a Artillery ; till th* imbroiled Land 
Too late perodvetb this Vociftration 
Is but ^Mfumral Strmon to the Nation,* 

The most rabid and calumnious of these 
poltroonly posthumous assaults on Cromwell 
might have been worked into the ' Psyche ' 
of 1648 with all safety. He was too mag- 
nanimous to heed such ' paper pellets/ even 
supposing he had cared to read them ; but 
no, Dr. Joseph Beaumont (alas! that one 
has to say it) was too wary and wily to run 
risks — and so, as Dr. Johnson said indig- 
nantly of David Mallet — the blunderbuss 
was loaded not only to fire at the dead, but 
further, reserved until its loader was himself 
beyond the sound of its re^rt (1.^. dead). 
As a rule your ultra-Royalists were of this 
breed. We have already anticipated the one 
effective answer to this imbecile and shrewish 
vituperation. It will thus be seen that recluse 
as he was, 'Psyche' is a rich quarry of 
'Notabilia' on contemporary events in 
Church and State. Looking more minutely 
into the poem, if the Reader desires to see 
the drollest list of heresies ever attempted 
to be wrought into verse, he will find it 
in C. xviiL St. 169-173. I dare not risk 
quotation; but it may be tiuned to. I 
would now tabulate a number of Notabilia 
and Oddities that may perchance be studied 
at leisure : — 

I. Tlu Puritans, 

Vol. I. 14B/114. Schism and flmty obduratioiL 
,, 156/233. Innovation. 

,, 178/821-a. Scripture quoted by Devil and his 
followers. 
ai4/3a w^. Necessity— pulpits— roaring preach- 
ers. 

a. Schisms and Heresies, 

Vol. I. a9o/zaa-3. Reformed Religion— oovenantSi etc 
„ 801/138-9. • Latest heirs '—regicides. 
,» 883/164. 'Heirs of Jewish Priests '—eiceed 
them in iniquity. 
887/395. Treason— after eample of Judas. 

With reference to the Lord, our Poet says 
finely, 'He call'd no lightning.' Alas for 



his own following of His exemplar! He 
dispenses lightnings and curses abundantly 
(Vol. I. 227/235). 

3. Mart Heresids and Presumptions, 
Vol. II. 13/186 seq. Fained zeal— tribe of saints. 
„ 15/219-215. Pulpit cheer— refonnaUon. 
„ 16/222. Preached wind. 
„ 18/23. Conventicle. 
,, X9/28. Covenant. 
„ 47/174. Pulpit villaines, etc. 
., 55/11. Parliaments. 
,. 67/205. Lyes— soldiers preach. 
.. 83/80 je/. Wind— conventicles sink. 

84/96^. Church Militant. 
M 91/903. Heretick nudness. 
., 99/6a Covenant. 
,, 1x3/47. Presbiters. 

145/28. Elders. 
M 145/38-39. Roundhead. 

146/46. 'Charles his Wain'=the pious and 
exemplarily blessed Charles ii. 
,, aoi/ao-ai. Committee. 

4. Dress, 
Vol. I. 53/X17 seq. Fashion-mongers. 
„ 7x/x58-9. 'curious-Ermin,'etc. 
M 9a/x95-6. Bracelets, networks, etc. 
„ zao/8. ' flattering paintt.' 

2x9/1x2-13. ' paint's Hypocrisy.' 
,, 219/115. 'liesof dainty hair.' 
Vol. II. XX2/35-37. 'to wear her purse upon her back.' 
,, i9$/ii seq. Foppery— male fop. 
, , 125/X6. ' Locks of Hair ' (curious etymology). 

148/81. Fops. 
.. >53/iSO» 'powder'd Tresses.' 

i55/x8a 'strange garbs and cuts.* 

S- ^ood. 
Vol. I. 53/122 ; X89-95. Cellar of the Saint. 

M 70/139 seq. Fruits, game, fish, etc. 
Vol. II. 3/29. Temperance. 
„ 3/36. Drunkard's Nose. 
,. 5/60. Sottishness. 

68/2x5. ' far-fetched fuse.* 

148/81. 'Bacchus wrangling aqoires.' 

x53/i6a Gluttony. 

6. Popular Amusements, 
Vol. I. aoo/26x. Bull-Baiting. 

7. A pun even on ' holy things.* 
Vol. I. 71/14B. L 5. 

8. Higk^ckureh doctrines, etc. 
Vol. I. 87/iao. Watchings. prayers, prostrations, etc. 
„ 88/x4d Lents, embers* humicubations. 
,, Z89/91. ' knee thick-plated with Austerity.' 

197/2x4. Feeding the 5000 typical of the 
nacramcnt—transttbstantiatfaw. 



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Ixxv 



Vol. II. 4/48-9> Fasting. 

8/193. ResLSon to be held in abeyance— mother 
of schisms and heresies. 
,, 8/107-9. Disputations. 
,, 9/1 17 siq* Puritans ' usurp ' office of the 
• Priest.' 

9/130. 

10/131-36 seq. 'which God Himself dost 
render Edible.' 
., Z3/180 stq, 

15/208. 'Priest' 
40/69. Adam's guilt. 
51/334. * Invention of the cross.' 
., 52/236-7. Ibid. 

,, fAl^vj, 'when the seren'd,' etc. 
•• 75/330. ' final footsteps of their Lord.' 
• • 83/85 ^*9* 'Those flaming Miters' — ^a con- 
clusive proof of the divine right of Epis- 
copacy 1 
Z3i/ list of Heretics (as before). 
129/83-4. Austerities — ^watching— fasts. 
130/94-96. Baptism— Baptists. 
X37/2oa Virginity. 
,, 138/206 seq. Treasurer of the Church— Epis- 
copacy. 
144/24-5. I^y hands invading office of ' priest- 
hood.' 
,p 145/38. Bishops — authorised successors of 

Apostles, 
o 162/283. Contempt of delicacies, flowers, etc 
M 162/285. Anthems. 
M 162/289. Donum Lachrymarum. 
•I i63/3oa ' Her body humbled.' 
,. 213/192. Virgin Mother. 
., 3x9/67. Compline. 

9. Satan gramnivoraus. 
Vol. I. 14/44. Warrants signed in ' Dragons' hides 
tann'd in the Stygian pooL' 
,, 100/46. ' Gathers up his Tail's ashamed train.' 
, , 148/101. ' The flails of his huge wings.' 
„ 149/122. 'Their Tails reach'd back their stings 

an hideous way.' 
,, 202/289. Snakes, talons, horns. 
Vol. II. 58/58-9. ' He winds about his woful tail' 
,, 65/175. ' His broken head and horns.' 
,, 174/153 ieq. ' His ragged horns.' 





10. Flowers, 


Vol. I. 


14/47 ; »9/»ao ; 29/6 ; 48/48 ; 42/194 Garden : 




69/123^ 


,, 


70/140-1 ; 77/234 ; 108/160-1 ; 110/195-6 




Weeds, etc., of ill-omen : 108/170. 


,, 


159/366. 


Vol. II 


. 14/198. Dictamnum, 50/215 ; 80/26, MarygoM. 


M 


107/177. Vine, ooleworts. 




11. Wind. 


Vol. I. 


74/193- 




12. Stream, 


Vol. I. 


771^5- 



13. Birds. 
Vol. II. 54/8, Halcyon ; VoL I. 30/18, wing'd June ; 

67/88, wood-music ; 106/137, musical. 
Vol. I. 110/195-6 ; 121/18 ; Vol. II. 46/147 ; 57/42 ; 
Vol. I. 229/255, ill-omened. 
Eagles, Vol. II. 139/233, 182/62. 
Peacock, Vol. I. 174/175. 
Larks, Vol. II. 72/273. 
Dying Swan, VoL I. 67/89. 
Nightingale, VoL I. 23/176. 

14. Ants and Bees. 
Vol. II. 37/10-11. 

15. Superstitions. 

Comets, VoL I. 17/96 ; 30/23; 147/97 ; 157/340 1 136/ 

345- 
Meteors, VoL I. 183/2. 
Phantoms shun daybreak, VoL I. 103/86. 
Ghosts shun daybreak, VoL II. 180/32. 
Basilisks. VoL II. 208/116. 
Tarantula, VoL I. 101/57. 
Vipers, VoL I. 167/69 ; 206/351 ; Vol. II. 100/85 J 

118/^30. 
Toads, Vol. II. 178/9. 
Crocodile, VoL I. 188/73. 
Unicom, VoL I. 170/11. 
Dragons, Vol. I. 161/304. 
Cur, VoL I. 37/124 ; 166/44. 

As a whole, Beaumont's language is pure 
and strong and unmistakable. He is given 
to emphatic reduplication of words as * too 
too/ 'far far/ 'long long/ * why why.' His 
use of pronouns is noticeable, e.g, : — 

' Which ambitious He 
Hunts for,' etc. (Vol. II. 165/19.) 

' In wondering meditation of that She 
Whom God would choose,' etc. (VoL I. 124/5&) 
' With entheous Them.' (Vol. 11. 170/96.) 

' Com ' is made a plural, * The Com hung 
down their ears ' (Vol. II. 203/48). There 
are frequent compound words, often not 
unhappily. Words beginning in Im and /«, 
of which a large number are now written 
£m and £fi, occur. 

Perhaps one of the most singular instances 

of Beaumont's credulous and simple-minded 

acceptance of whatever was told him is his 

placing of ' Pendle ' in his enumeration of 

great mountains (C. ix. st. 228) : — 

up to a Mount he march'd, whose stately head 
Despised Bason, Carmel, Libanns, 
The Alpes where Winter dXvrays keeps his bed 
With Pendle, Calpe, Atlas, Caucasus, 



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Ixxvi 



MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION, 



And all the proudest clifis of Ararat 
Where Noah's floating Ark first footing got.' 

'Pendle' is within a little distance of 
Blackburn. I can see it from my window. 
I have repeatedly climbed it. It is not more 
than 800 feet above the level of the sea — a 
mere molehill among ' mountains.' But then 
there was the rhyming legend, which doubt- 
less our poet had heard and believed : — 

' Pfcnigent, Pendle hill. Ingleborougb, 
Three such hiUs be not all England thorough f 

and so it is associated with 'Alpes/ etc. 
See James's Iter Lancastrense in my edition 
of his Poems (i vol. 4to. 1880, pp. 13, 62-5). 
Is not this local suggestion a kind of key to 
the Evangelist's large statement of the 'ex- 
ceeding high mountain ' of the Lord's temp- 
tation ? Certes the mountains of the Quar- 
antana are dark and tremendous enough, but 
not notably 'high.' 

IV. Various Readings. — The title-page 
of 'Psyche' of 1702 informs us that ex- 
clusive of the 'Four new Cantos, never 
before printed,' there are ' corrections 
throughout' In accord with this, his son 
Charles Beaumont, as Editor, thus ad- 
dresses the reader : — 

* This Second Edition of Psyche, which has been 
so often and so earnestly desir'd by many (the First 
being very scarce and very dear), is now presented 
to Publick View, though in a far different dress 
from the former : being carefully corrected in every 
Stanza, and much enlarged in every Canto, by the 
hand of the late Reverend Author many years before 
hU death,' (Vol. 1. p. 6.) 

The four 'new Cantos' were the xiii. 
(*The Impeachment'), xvi. ('The Supply'), 
XVII. ('The Cheat'), and xxi. ('The Sub- 
limation '). 

Besides, ' some Cantos of the First 
Edition ' were ' divided into two parts in the 
Second Edition, under different Titles,' 
nevertheless keeping to twenty-four in all. 

The statement that 'every stanza' had 
been corrected by the author proves almost 



literally accurate on a close examination. 
The 'Various Readings' in the text of 1702, 
as against that of 1648, are of sufficient 
interest to warrant our giving selected ex- 
amples and details. 

The first title-page puts us in mind of 
Thomas Baker's cynically proud 'Socius 
Ejectus ' by its announcement : — ' By Joseph 
Beaumont, Mr. in Arts and Ejected Fellow 
of 5. Petet^s College in Cambridge: The 
book was 'Printed by John Dawson for 
George Boddington^ and are to be fold at his 
shop in Chancery-lain neer Sefyanfs-Inn, 

M.D.CXL.VI1I.'1 

In Canto I. the 164 stanzas of 1648 are 
increased in 1702 to 252. The ' corrections ' 
or improvements begin in the opening stanza- 
argument, L 2, where for 'His plots how' 
we have ' His projects ' ; and in 1. 3, ' Whilst 
Phylax proper counter-works' for 'Phylax 
mean while a contrework'; and in L 5, 
' fortiiy'd ' for ' strengthened,* — the last cer- 
tainly the better word. Similarly in st x, 
we read, L 2, 'before thy gentle throne;' 
and 1. 4, ' but thy sweet power alone,' which 
are altered later to ' from thine high Mercies' 
Throne,' and * but greater Thee alone ' — in 
each case doubtful improvements. St 2, 
we find thus : — 

* Thy Paradise, amongst whose Hills of Joy 

Those Springs of everlasting Vigour run 

Which makes Souls drunk with heav'n, cleansing away 

All earth from Dust^ and angelising men. 
Great David and his Son, drench'd in these streams, 
With Poets' wreaths did crown their Diadems^' 

In 1702 this couplet closes the stanza : — 

' Wise loyal Springs, whose current to no Sea, 
Its panting voyage ever steers, but Thee.' 

and the former closing couplet is transferred 
and adapted to a new 3d stanza. St 4th 
(5th of 1702) thus runs : — 

1 WvCtL reference to the dedication of * Psyche' to Goo, I 
must content myself here with a general reference to NHes and 
Qturits for other examples of similar dedications. I had noted 
a number of remarkable ones, but my m^marmtuU have been 
mitlfiuf, and cannot now be recovered. 



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MEMORIAL^INTRODUCTION, 



Ixxvii 



' A Mysteris wiapp'd in so close a cloud 
That Psyche's young and well-acquainted eye 
Staggers aboat it : yet more shades do croud [the Soul 
And heap their night upon its secresie ; 
Feirce Belzebub, who doth in blacknesse dwell. 
Would fiain have all things else as dark as Hell.' 

Again, the closing couplet — ^altered — is 
placed as the clew of a new (6th) stanza. In 
St 7 (5th of 1648), L 4, *his are swarthy 
and as endless find,' read originally, ' As his 
are dark, and which as long shall finde.' 
The later grand stanza (8th) first opened 
thus : — 

' For as the wounded Lyon in his Den 

Roars out his griefe ; so from his boyling heart 

A hideous groan broke forth/ etc. 

Compare the new text : — 

' For (as the wounded Lyon frights his Den 
By roaiing out his grief ;) his shattered heart 
Vomits a hideous groan/ etc. 

So St 9 thus appears in 1648 : — 
' Nor dar'd they stay, by kembiog to make neat 
Their snarled Snakes, or draw their Tails huge trains 
Into a knot, or trim their cloven feet 
With iron shoes, or gather up their Chains : 
Ooely their hands they fill with Rage, and bring 
That common Subsidie unto their King/ 

In 1702 this reads : — 

* Nor dar'd they stay their tails vast volumes to 
Abridge into a knot's Epitome ; 

Or trim thefr hoofs foul cleft with iron shoe, 
Or their snarVd snakes' confusion unty : 
Only their paws they fill with Rage, and bring 
That desperate subsidy to their mad King,' 

In St 10 (8th of 1648) L 4y 'Roars a 
burnt bridge of brass ' replaces ' Bums a black 
bridge of brass.' In st xi (9th of 1648) 
an original touch is lost in 1. a, 'Stands 
alwayes ope to them that be without,' fiar 
superior to ' Stands always ope with gaping 
greedy* jaws.' St 14 and 15 of 1702 are 
new. In st 17 the ^^n^ groiesqueru^ 

* His mouth in breadth vy'd with his palace gate, 
And conquer'd it in foot,' 

was originally (st 13) more quaintly realistic 
and firmer wrought in itself and context : — 

' His mouth well-neer as wide 's his Palace Door, 
But much more black ; his Cheeks which never could 
Bhish in their own, had rak'd the world for store, 
And deeply dy'd their guilt in humane Blood : 



His grizly Beard all singed, did confesse 

What kinde of Breath us'd through his lips to presse/ 

One blot in * Psyche ' that repels a hasty 
reader altogether, is the vicious taste of 
many of the paraphrases and fillings-in of 
scriptural hints. Of these the additions of 
1702 mainly consist Thus his picture of 
Heresy (C. xviii. st 185) is simply loath- 
some ; nor less loathsome is this gratuitous 
addition to the insults at the Cross (C. xin. 
st 224) : — 



* A third came with a golden Goblet in, 
And fi&wning thus : The Queen to you hath sent 
This Morning-draught, and prays you to begin, 
That she may pledge you : suddenly he bent 
At Jesus' s gentle Face his irefril Brow 
And in His Mouth the Bowl of Urine threw/ 

Of the same type of irreverent supplement 
to the austere simplicity of the original, in 
another way, is the amplification of the 
Lord's dying prayer (C. xiv. st 77) : — 

'Father/ by all the Sweets of that dear Name, 

Regard the Prayer of Thy dying Son : 

By this My Cross, and all its nUle Shame, 

^ these/Mir Wounds which with foil cuirent run ; 
By all these Thorns which on My Temples grow. 
And sharper those which pierce My Bosom through/ 

Too frequently, one is offended and 
pained by the violation of good taste, not 
to say reverence, in the departures from the 
words of the Bible records. 

Thus is it throughout, and if 'Psyche' 
were one of the world's supreme epics, or 
Joseph Beaumont one of the great names 
of our great literature, I should willingly 
have undergone the toil of recording the 
entire Various Readings. As it is^ it were 
a 'Love's Labour Lost' These specimens 
therefore must stand for the whole. It has 
struck me as declarative of genuine inspira- 
tion and poetic afflatus that in so fisur as I 
have been able to take heed, his 'winged 
words,' his memory-haunting felicities, his 
perfect chrysolites of metaphor, his sculptur- 
esque imaginative conceptions, his thrills of 
emotion, his tenderness of quaint fancies, 



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Izxviii 



MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION. 



seem to have been struck off on the instant. 
To have re-worked these would not have 
improved but 'worn' them; and so the 
larger proportion of Various Readings belong 
to the less precious material. As our ' Errata 
et Corrigenda ' shew, consultation of the text 
of 1648 occasionally clears up difficulties if 
not mistakes of that of 1702. There is touch 
of pathos in the laboured * correction' and 
amplification of * Psyche* by its author. 
SouTHEY sedulously * revising ' his long dead 
epics — if epics they are to be called — ^is a 
modem counterpart — with this distinction 
and difference, that there is an ensphering 
soul of poetryand immortal things in ^Psyche/ 
while there are only phosphorescent gleams 
in Southey*s entire verse-achievements, cer- 
tain low-pitched minor things alone excepted. 
And so 'Psyche' must abide, 'its stately 
columns of stanzas [rising] like the squared 
stones of some massy edifice,' in the words 
of the Retrospective Reviewer. 

V. Claims. — I make no exaggerated claims 
for Dr. Joseph Beaumont, either as man or 
poet As MAN I have felt constrained to 
point out ' blots ' in his opinions and senti- 
ments and bearing toward others. But — 
as elsewhere stated — with every abatement, 
he is likeable. You have a conviction that, 
after all, he was larger than his creed and 
better than his utterances. His hates ex- 
hausted themselves through his lips, were not 
— I think — in his heart I feel very sure, 
that as he had still kindly and *good words ' 
for Richard Crashaw the apostate (as he 
must have held dogmatically), so his actual 
relations to his fellow-men were doubtless 
human, and not exclusive or haughty. That 
he had a tender and sympathetic spirit, let 
the priceless elegy for his dead wife (I. 
Biographical) witness. I like to think of 
him as an exemplar of the stately, cultured, 
self-contained, studious Churchman one 
associates with the Cambridge of the century 



and our grand cathedrals. By no means 
' great ' — in any high sense — ^he nevertheless 
stands out as a really noticeable man. Had 
he only dared to have published in 1648 
what he left for posthumous publication, he 
had won respect at least That he did not, 
presents him as timorous and self-careful. 
By the measure of these, the marble of his 
character was marred and our estimate 
lowered. As a Scholar^ he was rather an 
omnivorous reader like Dr. Henry More, 
than learned. His exegetical notes appended 
to the poems of 1749 are thin and common- 
place, and excite no regret that he prohibited 
publication of his Latin bcss. His Latin 
verse is inexact and unpoetical. As Poet 
I have no hope of resurrection for « Psyche ' 
in its entirety. It is outrageously long — the 
longest poem I suppose in tiie English 
language. But unless I very much mistake, 
sufficient has been adduced in this Intro- 
duction to warrant a claim for recognition of 
Beaumont in our Histories of Engli8h|Poetry, 
and in our Anthologies and Specimens. 
Had he lessened the volume of 1648 rather 
than enlarged it; had he strenuously kept 
to his original task of love, and not allowed 
himself to 'turn aside ' on every possible or 
incredible opportunity; had he cultivated 
his faculty of Singer rather than of Scold ; 
had he kept eye and ear open to his visitings 
of imagination and sphery music; in fine, 
had he limited himself to what 'came,' 
instead of labouring for more and still more, 
and had Richard Crashaw supervised 
* Psyche ' as its author had counted on — 
Joseph Beaumont's had been a name 
among English poets very much higher and 
vital than ever it is now likely to be. Sum- 
marily I claim that whoso girds himself to 
knowing 'Psyche' and (in part) the vivid 
and musical minor English poems, will not 
regret it.i I seek to send an elect few to 
'Psyche,' especially as appealing to that 

1 See Appendix No. IV. for Further Minor Poems. 



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MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION, 



Ixxix 



ineradicable sentiment whereby an English- 
man turns reverently to any product of the 
'large leisureliness,' and scarcely definable 
charm of quaintness of the Past I do not 
believe I shall plead in vain now that these 
two handsome volumes offer themselves for 
pleasant study. Frederick William Faber 
would have classed 'Psyche' among the old 
and old-fashioned things that are to be 
treasured. And so, I fetch from him this 
imperfect sonnet (in form), but inspiring 
poem: — 

Old'fashiotud Houses, 
For a Lady fond of old fitmitun. 

* Sweet are old Courts with dates above the doors, 
And yew-trees clipped in shapes : and cedar- walks, 
And lawns whereon a quiet peacock stalks, 

And leaden casements, and black shining floors, 

And arm-chairs carved like good cathedral stalls, 
And huge French clocks, and bedsteads most 
inviting, 

And stiff old ladies hung upon the walls. 
Famed in the days of English Memoir-writing :— 



Places, whose very look kind thoughts might draw 
E*en to Anne Stuart or William of Nassau. 
Sweeter than Tudor-stricken shrines are they. 

With pleasant grounds and rivers lingering by, — 
Quaint homes, that shed a pure, domestic ray 

O'er the dull time of English history.' 

(Poems : 1857, 2d edn., p. 262.) 

I must add here, in conclusion, that as 
in John Davies of Hereford, Nicholas 
Breton, and Dr. Henry More, I am 
under no common obligation to my good 
friend George H. White, Esq. of Glenthome, 
in the preparation of the Glossarial Index, 
fete My friends. Rev. T. L. O. DavieS, 
M.A., of Woolston, Southampton, the Rev. 
W. E. Buckley, M.A., of Middleton Cheney, 
the Rev. Richard Wilton, M.A., Londes- 
borough, and Mr. James Morison, Glasgow, 
have also been helpfuL 

Alexander B. Grosart. 

St. George's Vestry, 
Blackburn, Lancashire. 




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APPENDIX. 

No. I. 

(See p. xxni.) 
LETTER OF Dr. JOSEPH BEAUMONT: From Cole mss. vol. lx. p. 344. 

The foUowing hitherto unprmted letter I have been fortunate enough to fish out of the 
vast mass of the famous Cole mss. in the British Museum. It speaks for itself. Under St. 
Peter's College = Peterhouse, Cole has brought together an enormous quantity of unsifted 
but priceless materials for its history ; and so with all the Colleges, etc. etc., of Cambridge : — 

To the rei^ and rig^t woi^ Doctor Warren 

at his House in Pfeston, Suffolk. This present 

Cambridge, Dec, 9, 1660. 
Reverend Sir, 

I presume it wiU be no unwelcome News to any Peter House Man, especially to one who 
^n& a real Lover of that Colledge, & whose munificent Intentions towards it, were more than ordlnaiy, to 
hear that the antlent Master (who is lately made B9 of Durham) hath been restored, as also those of the old 
Society, who were surviving, and in a Capacity of re-enjoying their Places ; that Dr. Hale, formerly a Scholar 
and Fdlow of that House, succeeds my Lord of Durham in the Mastership ; that the Fellows planted there 
during the Hl^al Power, have now been admitted againe, according to the Statutes, by my Lord of Ely, the 
visitor ; that the whole Society unanimously submitt to the Church of England, and are in this Particular, very 
exemplary in the Chappie. This I have observed at my being heer ; & though I be not now a member of 
that College, I thought it my duty (in regard of my former relation to it) to lett you know, that Peter House 
is againe become a worthy Object of your kindest Affection. I suppose the Society will ere long finde some way 
to salute you and present you their service. In the mean time I crave your Pardon for this Boldness of 
Sir Your Servant and Honorer Josp" Beaumont. 



No. II. 

(Seep. xxxL) 

ACCOUNT OF THE RECEPTION OF KING CHARLES THE SECOND. 

(From ARCHiEOLOGiA : Vol. xviiL pp. 30-1: 181 7.) 

S'. 

I know you have expected Cambridge Newes er now ; & should hane received it had a Messenger 
been at hand. On Saturday seaven-night the Prince came hiUier betwene 9 & 10 of y» Clock, attended w«» 

46 / 



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Ixxxii MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION^APPENDIX IL 

y^ Dukes of Lenox & Buckingham, his Tutor, y« Earl of Carltle, y* lA Seimour, lA Francis, y« Duke of 
Buckingham's Brother, & divers other Gentlemen. The Vicecfaan : received him w^ a Speech in our Regent 
Walk : thence he went & saw Kings Chappell, where at his entrance into j* Quire I saw him say his Prayers, 
of w^ he was so little ashamed, that in the midst of that multitude he hid not his devocon in his hat : From 
thence he retired to y^ Regent house, & sitting in his fiithers place was saluted by y* publique Orator. 
Before he came in amongst us, a grace passed for his degree, with this addicon extraordinary. Ad sempiterfi 
Academic [sic] honorem : to y^ etemall honor of y^ Univ'sity. After y^ Orators Speech, he was created Master 
in Arts ; & then, by Comission from y* King, for all those whome his Sone should nominate : The Duke of 
Bucking : y« Earl of Carliel, y« L* Seimour, & divers Gentlemen of y« Univ'sity. His Tutor also y* Bish : of 
Salsbury, vras admitted to y* degree he had formerly taken in Oxford. From y* Regenthouse his Highnes went 
to Trinity College, where after dinner, he saw a Comedy in English, ft gave all sighnes of great acceptance w^ 
he could, & more then y> Univ'sity dared expect The Comedy ended, he took Coach in y^ Court, & 
returned to Newmarket The noble Duke of Lenox, a right worthy Friend to y^ Univ'sity, we suppose y* 
Instrument of all this great favour shewn to it. The Prince Elector came not w^ our Prince, least (as we 
suppose) y* Prince of Wales should loose something of y« honorable entertainment by y« Company of one whoe 
could not honor him as ye rest did, for y« Duke of Lenox & all y* rest waited upon him y* whole day, ft all 
y* Comedy while, bareheaded. The truthe is y* Prince wanted no circumstance of honor w'* y« Court about 
him, or y« Univ^^sity could give. 

This so highly pleased y« King^ that, y Monday after, he came hither himaelf^ ft whereas it was thought 
y^ otherwise he would privately have passed through, he then graciously turned in ft staid a while. At his 
coming out of y« Coach, w^ was before Trinity College, y« University being placed ready, saluted him wU» such 
vehement acclamacons of Vivat Rex, as I neuer heard y* like noise beer before upon any occasion. The Vice 
Chan : met his Majesty, and w^ a long speech presented him a very £eur Bible. After he entered Trinity 
College, y« Master saluted him w^ another oracon, & presented (I think) a book also. The Speech ended he 
went into y* Chappell, ft seemed very well to approve all their ornaments. As soon as he had seen that 
Chappell he walked to St Johns, viewed that Chappell & Library, [and] took a travelling banquet in y« 
further Court, w^ was presented to him upon banquet Chargers. He was their {sic} saluted by a speech from y 
Orator, & another from M^" Cleveland. He spake very kindely concerning D' Beal (whoe was absent) saying 
he would not believe such as he to be dishonest Men, till he saw it so proved. At S. John's Gate he took 
Coach ft so went to Huntingdon. What he did there & what he did at Newmarket, printed Papyrs [sic] I 
suppose have already told you. At his parting one tells me that he spake thus to y^ Vicechan — ' Mr. Vicedianc : 
Whatsoeuer becomes of me, I will charge my Sonn, upon ray blessing, to respect y« Univ'sity.* 

S', I would fain hear how you mdured your Journey to London : & how my Mother and Sister doe. My 
duty to your self & my Mother : ft my love to y^ rest : I take my leave. 

Your obedient Sonn, 

Joseph Beaumont. 

S^ Peters, y* best day of my life, March 3i, 1641. 

Hb Sonn y* Prince Elect', y^ Duke of Lenox, ft very few other (gentlemen came w^ y^ King. 

To his very loving father M' 

John Beaumont at his home in Hadley this prsnt Sufil 



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MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION— APPENDIX til. Ixxxii 



No. III. 

(See p. XXXV.) 
BEAUMONT AT SCHOOL. 

By good fortune I have obtained access to a copy of the following extremely rare book : — 

Apollo Shroving 
Composed for the Scholars of the Free School 

of Hadleigh in Suffolk, and acted by them 

on Shrove Tuesday, being the Sixt of February 

1626. 

London 
Printed for Robert Mylbonme. 

This was written by William Hawkins, the schoolmaster of Hadleigh and author of the 
volume of Latin verse (1634) to which Beaumont contributed, as in Minor Poems. Prefixed 
is an amusing letter from one K W. to the Publisher threatening serio-comically all kinds of 
damages if the ms. of 'Apollo Shroving' were not forthcoming. The Publisher responds to 
the ' Louingi Challenging, Threatening friend £. W.' and answers that he felt he must print 
it — < The truth is, my friend, vpon the sight of this Morall, Scholasticall, Theatricall Treatise, 
protested that the Author should receive much right in being thus wronged.' He sends ten 
copies of the printed book for the single ms. *a packet of his own metall stamped and 
multiplied by the Printer's Alchimy.' Master Joseph Beaumont spoke the Prologue dialogic 
cally and also the Epilogue, and sustained the ' character ' of a Page to Captain Complement 
As the other youthful actors doubtless give us the names of his schoolfellows, they may be 
here preserved — ^Nicholas Coleman, Denner Strutt, William Richardson, Samuel Cricke, George 
Richardson, Philip Beamont, William Cardinal!, James Suffield, John Bonner, George Liuin, 
Henry Whiting, Henry Cocke, John Coleman, Henry Moreton, Wentworth Randall, John 
Kidby, George Meriton, John Gale, Edward Andrewes. The Epilogue being short, I make 

room for it : — 

' Right Worthy Boigomasters, gentle Dames, 
Accept (we pray) our hasty huddled games ; 
Who thus imploy our parts, our pains most gladly, 
In hope to please our Mother Towne of Hadley. 
And thus with this our homely shroving dish, 
A merry Shrouetide to you all we wish, 
Tis late, methinks I spye some drowsie head. 
Whose yawning nodding toles a peale to bed ; 
If any such be here, wee 4e take them napping, 
And all to boxe their eares with loud hand-clapping. ' 

There is sparkle and humour in the small book, and as an example of early School plays 
has an interest deserving revival by (say) the Historian of Hadleigh. Be it noted in relation 
to this period that the letter in Appendix II. contains pleasant notices of father and mother. 



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Ixxxiv 



MEMORIAL^INTRODUCTION^APPENDIX IV, 



With reference to ' Psyche ' the following additional notelets may be acceptable : — ^in c. v./6, 
last line, for 'wo' read 'mo' : in c. vi./3iy L i, read for metre's sake 'was marshalled' : in 
c ix./i24, 1. 2, contrast 'Protoplast' = First Creator, with its modem cognate ' Protoplasm' : 
in c xxiii./i43> L 5> * spight ' instead of * sp[r]ight ' may be correct ; for the spelling cf. st 189 : 
in c xxiiL/3is, L i, read ' he ' for ' be,' and L 5, * deigned ' is correct 

In Harleian MSS. 7049, pp. 71-110, 132-3, are a considerable number of letters (in Latin) 
addressed by Beaumont to Bishop Wren. They date from 1642 to 1660 and deserve the atten- 
tion of the Historians of Peterhouse and of Hadleigh. They are extremely respectful, usually 
commencing ' Amplissime Dne' or ' Colendissime Domine,' and closing 'Filius vester Indig- 
nissimus ' or ' Filio vestro Indign.' One touching letter on his wife's death is signed ' Affic- 
tissimo Filio,' and as in the after-epitaph he calls her his ' lectissima conjux.' My available 
space is over-passed already, else some of these letters should have been printed They are 
taken from the original by Thomas Baker. 



No. IV. 

(See page IxxviiL) 

ADDITIONS TO MINOR POEMS. 

By a lucky chance having brought together a complete set of the Cambridge University 
collections of Verses on State occasions, a number of contributions thereto by Dr. Beaumont, 
hitherto utterly overlooked, have been recovered. I gladly find a place for them here in their 
chronological order : — 

From ' 2TN0AIA, sive Musanim CuiUb. concentus 
et congratulatio etc. 1637,* 40 (M. verso). 



From 'Cannen Natalitinm ad cunas illustr. Prin- 
cipis Elizabethse deran. intra Nativ. Dom. 
Solennia per humiles Cantab. Mnsas, 1635 ' 
(folio H.). 

Ad Infantem rec^ns natam. 

Quid ploras utero matemo exire pueUa ? 

Te genitrix, flet(ts desine, corde gerit. 
Sed pergas ; tumidis ioflantur gaudia bucds ; 

Provocat bic querulus gaudia nostra sonus. 
Pergas ; vagitus hos exoptavimus omnes. 

En, erit hsec Matri musica blanda tuae. 
Siste tamen lacrymas ; illse vel saxea corda 

(Signa queat saxum gutta cavare) cavant. 
Tuigentes mammas, Matris vestigia quaere 

Lactea, plena Deft, nectare plena cuba. 
Morphea tunc sinito (nam te quoque Numina curant) 

Ecce, ut te spectet, stat Deus iUe vigil 
Jamque ftitura legas. Quidni miracula sperem 

Maxima? de tantA Matre stupenda fluant. 
R^nale decus, latissima sceptra mariti, 

Heroas, famam, secula sera legas. 

J08EPHUS BEAtmONT ; Art. Baoc. 
Coll. Petri sodas. 



Ad Nutricem. 
QusBCunque cceli hoc pignus amabile 
Rursus benigni lacte vicario 
Motuque conarum quieto 

Accipies teneri fovendum, 

Blandis rosarum mista pudoribus 
Accerse plenis lilia corbibus. 
Accerse Ixturo purpurantis 

Atque humilem violae decorem : 

Horti co^ce florida prlmu]! 
Compendioso gaudia vinculo ; 
Ut fusa turbet delicate 

Virgineum nova Virgo leetom, 

Vino^nsque presaos nesda flosculos 
Vincatur alto nesda pondere 
Somni laborantes prementis 
Innocuis tenebris ocellos. 

Tunc nee qnerentes delidas sines, 
Quas gutturalis gloria fistula, 
Ceu vota persolvens, honesto 
Annumerat philomela cantu. 



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MEMORIAI^INTRODUCTION^APPENDIX IV. 



Ixxxv 



Tunc nee vocabit te violens stupor 


Altum strepentis turbine militis 


Vocale laudis solvere debitom ; 


IncGepta magni rumpere somnia 


Sed donnientis suavitatis 


Infantis. ft pulao immodesto 


Flore oculos tadtuma pasces. 


Tarn teneras agitate cunas^ 


£t complicati muta labelluli 


Quis ausit, omni forti licit Styge 


Haurire muto gaudia gaudio, 


Furor tumescens ? O potius leves 


£t blanda curabis per ora 


Spirare jam discat susurros 


Nil strepero fluitare plausu. 


Et placidas Boreas querelas. 


At quando valWs palpebra limpidls 




Pertsesa somni lumina parturit 


Mulcere discat, discat ft innocens 


Et splendor augctur gemellus 


Amoeniori jam tumultu 


Siderei per amoena vultiis. 


Pacificum redtare murmur. 


Formosioris prodiga voculae 


JOSBPHUS BEAXJMONT, 

C. S. Petri Socius. 


Efifunde linguae non modicum melos. 




Ut discat k dulci magistra 




Non nisi dulce loqui Pudla. 


From ' Irenodia Cantabiigiensis ob pacif* seren. regis 


JOSEPHUS BBAUMONT. 


Caroli h Scotia reditum m. Nov. 1641/ 40 


Coll. S. Pet 


(C. 2). 




Lemniscus redeunfi cum Carolo Foci appensus. 


From • Voces Votivse ab Acad. Cant p. n. Caroli & 




Mazise prindpc filio emissse. Cant. 1640,' 40 


Suddmque coeli tendis, & beas Deos ; 


(C & vena\ 


Pax alma, salve, Carolo baud impar Comes 


Venis, didque cognitas visis plagas. 


Ad cunas AugusHssimi Infantis triumphus. 


Video jugaies, par Columbarum, tuas 


Fremat rebelli turbidus impetu, 
Spargatque magnos quA furor est metus 
Qulsquis senescentem Britannis 
Intrepidis dolet ire paoem. 


Mitis Magistrse candidum omantes iter ; 
Temonis auium cemo jam tut6 sui 
Palloris oblitum ; ft per argentum Rotae 

Securitatem prodiga tapetis tegit 


Superba feno Gens fem perfido 


Oliva vemis, nee timet rugas novae 


Suisque tandem par Aquilonibus 


Brunue inquietas. Copia repleto venit 


Lat& boatus impudentes 


Superba Comu, spaigit ft magnos sui 


Evomat, ambitiosa culpse 


Testes triumph!, fata dum rapit sibi 




Ezclusns orbis orbe, nee reliquis dolet 


Bissim audiendse. Convocet in suas 


Abscissa terns singularis Insula 


Sopenia vani Numina copias 


Beatiorem que tenet Mundum domi 


Sanctesque perjunis roinaces 


Jam vana Csedes (quam minax nuper 1) jaoet 


Proditor ingeminet querelas. 


Ipsa interempta ; Jam repurgate fugit 


Vah bnita bmtis, fulmina nubibus, 
Non nata cselo 1 Desine inutUes 


Radios honestos Lucis insanus furor, 
Fugit Rapina pervicax, fugit stuprum, 


Vibrare terrores, profane 

Hostis, ft impavidos protenns 


Et quiquid ingens Caroli Virtus negat 


Posse tolerari. Sancta oonsurgit Quies, 
Audetque pietas esse : Non timent Boni 


SimtUque spretis stringere classids. 


Timere Superos, nee Poll terram pudet. 


^^des ut omnem laetior Angliam 


Haoc dona Puds : scilicet Pacem decet 


Dies beavit, limpiduroque 


Tales referre gratias P&ds Deo. 


Explicuit sine nube caelum. 


J. Beaumont. 


Arridet amo gratior in soo, 


CoU. S. Pet. So. 


Et UbenUi lunime Stellulam 




Nostro orbe nascentem triumphat 


{Ibid,) 


Asdduus redimire Phoebus. 


To the Queen. 


Maria, (fausto plaudite Nomini) 


Great Queen, how much thy sacred name 


Maria, magnis maxima liberis, 


Divindy swdls Matemall fame 


Novam Anglicanse pads arrbaro 


Let God be judge : God chose no other 


Deposuit, podtseque plaudit. 


But a Maxie for his Mother. 



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bcxxvi 



MEMORIAL-INTRODUCTION-'APPENDIX IV. 



Marie 1 O how sweetly, hence 


Such flowers whose sevendl sex dlsckMtt 


Sweetnesse drops iu influence t 


Fiance's LiUes. England's Roses 1 


What Foyall odours make their nest 


Me thinks our heaven more heavenly shows. 




Me thinks Great Britain greater grows. 


Whence God did spring ! when heav'n desires 


Being nobly full of ample means 


To bum perfumes amidst iu fires, 


To store a world with Kings and Queens. 


Or Angels have a mind to smile, 


She who hi her fruit doth reigne 


Let but Masie sound a while. 


At once in England, France and Spain. 


And for the Mother of their King 


Triumphs her royal self to see 


Heaven grows tweet, and Angds sing. 


Increas'd and bom afresh by thee ; 


Thus, glorious Queen, on this our sphere 


And would her own great style forego. 


The rayes and dainties of our eare 


Or have thee call'd Queen-mother too. 


Confessing from what heaven they came. 


And give us leave to bid thee joy 


Breath in the odoun of thy Name. 


On that fasting-feasting day : 


O balmy word 1 a word too fidre 


Auspicious day, wherein all we 


To walk but in perfumed aire ; 


Seem'd ddiver'd unto thee f 


A word too heavenly for our earth 


O may thy numerous ofbpring make 


Because of kin to that great Birth 


The number which thy virtues speak. 


Whkh brought forth Heaven ; a word too bright 


Till in a full and princely land 


To shine but in the sacred light 


They round about their parenu stand. 


Of purest virtue ; too too high • 


Be these thy guard, whose royal force 


For all but holy Majesty : 


Can set thee sure above the course 


A Name which like some pretious gemme 


Of mortall danger, and win give 


Can enrich a Diademe : 





And there is best enamelled 

Where it may crown a crowned head ; 

A Name wherein all beauties dwell, 

A Name without a parallel, 

A Name which sits above all other 

The greatest Queen and happiest Mother. 

Greatest Queen, whose stemmes profess 
Thee the Queen of fisithfuhiess I 
Happiest Mother, which bcingeth forth 
In an oft-repeated Birth 
Not onely ground for Diademes, 
Not onely male and female Gemmes, 
But all the Hopes and loyes which blesse 
A Kingdome with secure suooesse. 
For in that constellation. 
Those six sweet Sparks of our bright Sunne, 
The future peace shines wondrous dear 
Of our triumphant hemisphere : 
And we must Thee the Mother style 
As Charles the Father of our Isle. 

O ever blessed Father He, 
Because a Father made by thee 1 
When in that dimmed and famous day 
Which taught our Sorrows how to pray, 
With princely fear and Royall seal 
His humble highness did appeal 
To heaven for mercy ; Heaven made haste. 
And ere the day of grief had past 
Sent him a pledge of living joy. 
That Royall branch, that glorious Boy : 
And that he might more welcome be, 
Not by an Angel but by thee : 

What princely joy thy Charles may take 
To see his pretious Marie make 
His stock, the stock from whence do spring 
Such flowers as well become a King, 



Jos. Beaumont. 
ColL S. Petri. 



From 'Epicedia Cantabrigiensia in obitum illustr. 
Principis Annae Ducissae Eboiacensis. Cant 
1671/ 4<> (B and verso). 

Ad Illutirisdwium Dueem Ebor, 

Qu6 poterat Virtus in terris scandere nostris, 

Inclyta pro meritis venerat Anna suis. 

Deerat adhuc Regnum : terras pertaesa jacentes, 

Eigo sibi in coelis jam diadema petit ; 

Fitque Dtici Dux ipsa suo, cui, qu& volat. altam 

(Olim ingressuro) signat ad astra viam. 

Nam te, Briiannu Columen & Decus, diu. 

InvicU PrincepSf sospitem hie Numen velit ; 

Anmamque tetb jubeat, 6 serd, sequi. 

Memisse coelum saepitis juvet senael 

Tibi capessendum. PugiJe Jacobo baud egent 

Cives supemi, fulmen aut tuum advocant 

Hie. hie tonabis meliiis, A noto Anglica 

Fragore lat^ personabis sequora ; 

Seu Batavus instat cominiis, sive eminiis 

Ostentat iras Gallus, & frcmit procul. 

Hac Albemarlum lege Caelitibus datum 

Non invidemus : sotus Ipse sufficis, 

Mod6 perfruamur : Marie nee alio sines 

Tuos egere. Debitum 6 difiier polum, 

Et vota patere hsec ; patere cum damns tuo 

Felidtatem nostram ; & abreptae loco 

Sponsae, salutem publicam in finum cape. 

J. Beaumont, 
ColL S. Petri Prsefectus. 



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MEMORIAI^INTRODUCTION-APPENDIX IV, 



Ixxxvii 



From 'Musae Cantab. Ser. Princip. WUlielmo ct 
Marue etc. Cant. 1689/ 40 (f B. a). 

Quos non triumpbos nostra jam Mater canat, 
Ecclesiarum dulce & egregium decus 1 
Felicitates Ipsa stat stupens suas 
Horrore laeto, dissii>atas dum videt 
Repent^ copias superborum Hostium ; 
Quos inter audax eminebat Farailia 
Ignaiionorum, Facum atque Pestium 
Dolentis orbis. Caetertmi quo Isti modo 
Jam conqueruntur, nosse non Anglos juvet 

Quascunque (clamant) Photbus aspidt plagas 
Nostrum replevit Nomen, & Gesta inclyta : 
Catholica nostrft industriA Xooghjides 
Lat^ue sparsa est, Indiam & miseram beat. 
BorealU at cbm jactitaret se H(Brtsis 
Nulli labori parsimus domi aut foris 
Terrse marisque nil morati incommoda ; 
Missa demus plurimae vim mysticam ; 
Notas ubique fervidisque indidmus 
Preces, & omnium Beatorum chorum 
(Te Campiane maxima, T^ue 6 Pater 



Gamette.) supplices in auxilium^'^s 
Causa vocamus ; Consulimus ipsum qu6que 
Responsa Roma sacra dantem Apollinem, 
Fideique nostrae Prindpem, atque Orbis Caput, 
A quo cerebrum abesse quisnam existimet 1 
Ciun non daretur flectere Superos, trucem 
Acheronta movimus ; piis falladis, 
Mendadisque more pro nostro additis, 
Quodcunque poterat strenuus & acer Dolus 
Effeceramus : j4mque magni compotes 
Dubio procul Voti videbamur fore. 

Sed dira spem Fortuna lactantem abstulit 
£t InnocenHus sit invito innooens, 
£t noster eheu zelus in fumos abit 
Venirt Vindicem, & Vidert, & Vincere, 
Jam sentientibus una solamen fuga est 

Quin ergo Miseri sapere tandem disdtu 
Summumque Numen definite lacessere : 
Nam, LoyoUHs quamlibet ringentibus 
Magna & usque prevalebit Veritas. 
Jo. Beattmont, 
S. T. P. & Coll. S. Petri Prcfectus. 

Another by his son Charles C E vtrso. 




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By 

Dr. JOSEPH BEAUMONT. 
1 648- 1 702. 



46 



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NOTE. 

Our text of * Psyche * is necessarily the folio of * 1 702,' which as having 
been thoroughly revised and prepared by the Author for re-publication is 
authoritative. But in the Memorial-Introduction will be found a critical 
examination of the original edition of 1648. Throughout, as usual, an 
endeavour has been made to reproduce the text in absolute faithfulness. 
At the close of each Canto, such Notes and Illustrations as seem called 
for are added. —G. 



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PSYCHE, 

OR 

LOVE'S MYSTERY, 

In XXIV. CANTOS: 

Difplaying the Intercourse Betwixt 

CHRIST, 

AND THE 

S O U L.^ 

*0 0609 ^Aydwri earL 

01 vdXai irpoaifiov i/Afukei^ Xoyovs' 
T^ T€fnrvhv oT/iai a^ koXov iroiov/icvoi 
"Oxni^^i *tt* TvirovvT€s €K fuX&v T/3<$irovs. S. GfTg. No*, in de Carminib, suis. 

By JOSEPH BEAUMONT, D.D. late King's 
Profeffor of Divinity, and Mailer of St. Peters College 
in Cambridge. 

THE SECOND EDITION, 
With Corrections throughout, and Four new Cantos, never before Printed. 

CAMBRIDGE, 
Printed at the University- Press, for Tho. Bennet, at the Half Moon 
in St Pauts Church Yard, London, M.DCCII. 



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rj\ fry ry\ fT^ rY\rT^rT^ ^T\ ^T>^T^ T^ ^T\ry\ /T^ /T^ fT\ ^y\ ^T^/T^ rTS fT\ fyy. fT^ rT^i 



INTO 

THE MOST SACRED 

TREASURY 

OF THE 

PRAISE and GLORY 

OF 

INCARNATE GOD, 

T/ie fVorlcfs most Merciful 

REDEEMER; 

The Unworthiest of His Majesties Creatures, 
In all possible Prostrate VENERATION, 

Begs Leave to Caji This His 

DEDICATED MITE. 



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THE 

AUTHOR 

TO THE 

READER. 



nPHE Turbulence of these Times having deprived me of my wonted Accommodations of Study ; I 
-*- deliberated. For the avoiding of meer Idleness^ what Task I might safeliest presume upon, 
without the Society of Books : and concluded upon Composing this Poem. In which I endeavour to 
represent a Soul led by divine Gracey and her Guardian Angela (in fervent Devotion^ through the 
difficult temptations and Assaults of Lust^ of Pride^ of Heresy ^ of Persecution, and of Spiritual Dere- 
Uctiany to a holy and happy Departure from temporal Ufe^ to heavenly Felicity : Displaying by the 
way, the Magnalia Christie his IncamaHon and Nativity; his Flight into ^gypt, his Fasting and 
Temptation^ his chief Miracles, his being Sold and Betrayed, his Institution of the Holy Eucharist, 
his Passion, his Resurrection and Ascension; which were his mighty Testimonies of his Love to the 
Soul. 

I am not ignorant, that very few Men are competent Readers of Poems, the true Genius of 
Poetry being little regarded, or rather not subject at all to common Capacities : so that a discourse 
upon this Theam would be to small purpose. I know also, how little Prefacing Apologies use to be 
credited : Wherefore, though I had much (very much) to say, and justly, in this kind, I will venture 
to cast my self upon thy Ingenuity, with this only Protestation, that If any thing throughout this 
whole Poem, happen [against my intention] to prove Discord to the Consent of Christ s Catholick 
Church, I here Recant it aforehand. 

My Desire is, That this Book may prompt better Wits to believe, that a Divine Theam is as 
capable and happy a Subject of Poetical Ornament, as any Pagan or Humane Device whatsoever. 
Which if I can obtain, and (into the Bargain,) Charm my Readers into any true degree of Devotion, 
I shall be bold to hope that I have partly reached my proposed Mark, and not continued meerly Idle, 



A Syllable of the Cantos. 



I. 






a. 


Lust Comqmet^d, 


xo. TheMarveils, 


3. 




II. The Traytor, 


4. 


TJURedelliom. 


Id. The Banquet, 


S 


Tke PaeiJUatUm. 


15. The Impeachment, 


6. 


The HumiliaHom. 


14. The Death of Love, 


7. 


The Grtat IMtU one. 


15. The Triumph of Love, 


8. 


The Pilgrimage, 


x6. TheSuppfy, 



17. The 

18. The 

19. The 
TO, The 
ai. The 
aa. The 
33. The 
a4. The 



Cheat, 

Pcyson, 

Antidote, 

Mortification, 

SniUmation, 

Persecution, 

Dereliction, 

Consummation, 



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THE 

EDITOR 

TO THE 

READER. 

'T^H/S Sutmd Edition of Psyche, wkick Mas bum so often and so earmstly disir'd fy many, {tki First being very 
'*' scarce and very dear) is now presented to PmbUck View, though in a fir different Dress from tht Former; being 
earefidfy Corrected in every Stanta, and mnch enlarged in evory Canto by the hand of the late Reverend Author many 
years b^re his Death, / intindod to have pibUsh^d it long before this time, had t not been prevented, partly by mulH- 
plidty ofbtuiness, whereim I woe involved by the great lass of My Revertnd Father: partfy by transmitting the Booh, 
according to his Will, to a good Friend and very able Judge tf English Foehy, Hvit^ata great distance from Cam- 
bridge. After a considerable time spent by thai Reverend and Worthy Person^ in diligently perusing and comparing 
both Copies; a little before his much lamented death, he restored to me the mew Copy, wifh afkll approbation of it, 
expressed not only in a very hind Letter written to me about it, but also in a long and ingenious Copy of Verses made in 
Memory of the deceased Author, 

The principal dijference between both Editions, in short, is this. The x6th Canto called The Supply, is whoUy 
new, and it is truly a Sm^lenUnt ofwhat was b^bre wanting: For' it Treats of the great provision which our Lord 
made for hie Church at the Feast of Pentecost, by semdimg down the Holy Ghost tg^M his Apostles in the appearance of 
cloven Tongues, to heal the Division of Tongues made at Bobil, amd to ertft a tofHer Fahrieh ^ken was designed there. 
Some CasUoes also of the First Edition are divided into Two Parts im this Second EeKtion, under dijfnmt Titles, 
which now increases the number of Cantoes to 34* The whole , design ^the Poem is to roeommemd the Practice of Piety 
amd Morality, by discriHng the most remarhable Passages of our Savior's Ltfe^ amd by painting particular Vertues 
and Vices in their proper colours: A Design, which / could wish all Writers of English Verse would propound to 
themselves ; for 'tis undoubtedly true, that no Wit or Fancy whatsoever can mahe atonement for those obscene, prophane,, 
and scurrillous expressions, which are too visible in some late English Poems, 

The learned world, Ihnow, will be apt to wonder very much, why I publish only this English Poem, and conceal 
all my Reverend Father's Latim Worhs, both Critical and Polemieal, which for the most part he compos' d in the space 
of as Years, whilst he continued in the dijficult as well as honourable Post of Regius Profifissor of Df^inity in the 
Famous University ^Cambridge. In Answer to this Question, the only plausible excuse, which I can justly make, is 
this: that my Father not having suficient leisure, nor health of body, to revise amd examine all his Latin Worhs 
Treating of many very difficult and weighty Points ; according to his wonted modesty, strictly forbad the Printing any 
of them in his last Will, which I am bound to fu^l punctually. However I must confess, *tis no small trouble to me 
to thinh, that all those Volumes, which cost my Reverend Father so great Pains and Study, and would, if Printed, con^ 
duce much to the benefit and advantage of all Students in Divinity, in respect both of matter and language; cannot be 
read and seriously considered by others as well as my self, 

CHARLES BEAUMONT, M.A. 
Fellow of St. Peter's 

College, Cambridge, 



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IN SACRED 

MEMORY 

OF THE 

VERY REVEREND AUTHOR 

OF THE FOLLOWING 

W O R K, 

Joseph Beaumont, S.T.P.^»c. 

To PSYCHE. 



gSYCHE, Fair Dauj^hter of the Blest THREEr 
ONE, 
Th' Eternal FATHER'S Choise for Future 
Bride, 

To His Almighty Coetemal SON, 
When by The SPIRITS Clear Unctions puriiyd ; 
By CAarit, and thy Guardian Phylax lead. 
Thro' Life's dark shades, to thy bright Nuptial bed : 



Psychtt sole Empress of all Seas and Lands, 
When ever Man, thy Liege, His Throne has Iwt ; 
Himself thy Throne, but stoopt to thy commands, 
How High so e*r exalted, or how Great ; 
In All whom, like Life's quickning Flame thou art, 
Whole in the whole, and All in every Part : 



Thee I invoke, for Muse thee supplicate ; 
Not as in this streight breast thou groan'st confin'd, 
But as thou ftu* and wide didst Reign of late 
In holy BeatunoMfs all-embracing Mind : 
Beauwumt thy Prophet, whose Harmonious lyre. 
Love's Tiiumpbs to resound, thou didst inspire. 



As Him teach Me, since Thee my Muse I make, 
Some Acts of thy Espousals loud to sing ; 
And since I Beaumomt's Ground, and Numbers take. 
Accept the Oflf'ring I at distance bring. 

With harp ill-tun'd, and long thro' Age unstrung, 

Fit only to fill up some Under-song ! 



He, he the Man, who thy Vast Powers did know! 
He, who Thy Maze, thro' this Earth's Wild could trace, 
Bolder than any Son of Verse below. 
And lead thy Song to its High Resting place ; 

But not till made thy Resident above, 

Clearly discem'd The MysUry of Love. 



av'dV 



Too bright that View for any mortal Eye ; 
Blest BMumotU saw not All, till hence remov'c 
And tho' invigor'd by Heav'n's last ^Supply, 
And loving, knew not how He was Belov'd : 
How much of God Belov'd, and for thy sake. 
Whom next Him, He his chiefest Care did make. 



Thee He did make, next God, his diiefest Care ; 
Witness that Pourtiait of thy Form Divine,* 
Which his best Art did for thy Spouse prepare, 
(As Distant Princes treated Love's indihe) 

And in exchange for his, to thee first sent. 

On Embassy with it in person went. 

8. 
Rare the Design, and masterly all wrought, 
But long e'r finisht ; as the time was long. 
Till to thy self thy Rebel-self was brought. 
In Wilful obstinacy only strong : 
By ^Aphrodisius and Agtnor's Wiles, 
Only not taken in Proud Lusts thick toils. 



'TIS true, firom them thou made'st an Happy Scape, 
Thanks to their Care, who were thy Watchliil Guard. 
And stept uncaU'd, 'twixt Thee and brutal Rape; 
(If what then pleas'd thee suits a term so hard) 
But time to reconcile thee to thy Friends 
It took, more time for them to work their ends.^^ 

lo. 
On thee to work them, Poor unhappy Maid ! 
(Pardon me so to call thee 1) left alone. 
By Foes girt round, and by base slaves betray'd, 
"Without all Conduct but thy twioe-foil'd Own ; 
Reason so call'd, but scarce was common Sense, 
Ptefer'd to Faith, iu Guide, Rule, Bounding Fence. 

II. 
This made Thee Venturous, trust thy self too much. 
And, safe at Home, presume abroad to go ; 



1 Canto xvL 
• Cuitol 



Added in dus New Editioo. 
s Cuito vL iiL iv. v. 



4 Canto Ti. 



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8 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY, 



Confinement, but at Thine own pleasure grutch, 
And Judge All Well, because thou thought'st it so : 

1 What thy Spouse did. intianc'd to see, and hear ; 

What lemain'd thee to do, in little Care. 

IX 

No, not thy ' Guardian's motions to obey, 

Who Caution'd thee the Dangers of the Place 

Where thou against his Will resolv'dst to suy. 

The Mount that to both Adams fatal was ; 

Sad Calvary, which for the Second's sake, 

living thy Home, Dead thou thy Grave wouldst make. 

But thence ^Authadts, with his glosing Mien, 
Debaucht thy Love, and drew thee to his Cell ; 
Made thee m All but Will a NoMaretu, 
Thy Reason he with Reason back't so well : 
Thy Will was for Pstudagiuis Conquests left, 
And that lost, of thy All thou wert bereft. 

14- 
^Agyria won it, and his sleights did play 
With such Close art, he might have plaid them on, 
So Wise, so Good seem'd All he deign'd to say. 
Had not thy Phylax bid the Feind be gon I 
Away he flew, off dropt his False Disguise, 
And Reason to it self retum'd, grew Wise. 



Not on a suddain, nor till CharU call'd 
To his assistance, thee to * Gitton took. 
And broke up Herssy's foul Den, appall'd 
At which, with horrid Wonder thou wert struck : 
This choak't thy Reason, this thy Will inclin'd, 
And to that Will Divine gave Both resign'd. 

16. 

Time then it took a New Scene to display 
Of Glories thou hadst never seen before ; 
* Ecclesia's Court with Spoils divinely gay 
Of conquei'd HeU, and this World's shatter'd Power ; 
But where Ecclesia's Self, High on her Throne, 
Shon brightest, with thy Lord's rayes made her own. 

17- 
Long thou staid'st here; (who would not?) here hadst 
staid 
Still longer, had not thy Dear Aliiom, 
More glorious by thy suffrings to be made, 
Call'd thee to hard Adventures, yet unknown ; 
Proud ' Persecutions Flames, which thou hadst past, 
But that reserv'd for blacker Flames at last 



1 From the vii. to the xvii. Canto. > Canto xvii. 

S Ibidem. 4 Canto xviii B Canto jcviu. 

< Canto xix. 7 Canto xxii 8 Canto xxiU. 



18. 
The bitter*st Cup e'r tendred Maid to drink, 
{CMaris, and PJfyiax, and thy Love withdravm) 
Hurrying thee quick to 1 Desperation's brinck, 
Whose monstrous Gulf, with gore did deadly yawn. 
Thou saw'st it ; Trembled'st, but which way to fly 
Saw'st not ; abhoning Life ; twice dead to Die. 

19- 
Phylax here once again did interpose ; 
Snatcht thee from Death ; but helpless to reprise 
Life's joyes, thy Dread Spouse HeaVnly Charts chose. 

To whom the Key belongs of Paradise , 

'She Open'd ; In thou went'st ; and there dost stay 
Dissolv'd in Loves, waiting thy Marriage Day. 

2a 

(|.) Thbse, and a thousand more the Chances were, 
Which made thy Pouitrait in its drawing long ; 
With various sketch, as did thy Self appear 
Under their force, to make Love's Chairns more strong : 

BtaununU alone was skiU'd to hit them All. 

With lights, shadows, as each best might fiJl. 

31. 
Thy Conquests were the Lights, which shew'd thy Face 

So lovely Fair, it ravisht at first sight. 

Sparkling with Majesty, and humble Grace, 

Thy absent Spouse's Amours to invite 
And tho' thy Self thou only didst o'rcome, 
That A^ctoiy for One o'r Him made room. 

22. 

He heard thy Battails, lov'd the Heroine, 
Who could Her Passions with such awe subdue, 
Girt with the > Belt of Chastity Divine, 
His first kind Token, Treaties to renew. 

Of andent Loves, before all time destgn'd 

And deeply laid m the Eternal Mind. 

23. 

O, the bright lustre, that thy Port it gave. 
With that pearl'd Girdle to be daspt around ; 
Which show'd thy shape, and thy great Heart to have 
A Resolution, able to confound 
Thy fiercest Enemies, which by it press'd. 
Quitted their Fort, resign'd to thee thy Breast. 

24. 
This, more than Shield, or Lance was thy Defence, 
Thy flo¥ring Habit's noblest Ornament, 
Which never loos'd did sacred Powers dispense. 
Unhurt to take the Darts against thee sent : 
To Heav'n fast bound thee, made thee Heav'n's last 

Care; 
Unconquer'd in Defeats, Renown'd in War. 



1 Canto xxiv. 



* Canto iii. 



* Canto iiL 



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DR. WOODFORD'S POEM ON DR. BEAUMONT. 



25. 
And this One Cause was, that to shew his skill, 
But more thy DiflTrent languors to disclose. 
Thy Draught's Designer did his Table fill 
With Diff*rent Charms, and Art's best touches chose : 
But iHiat they were, how tender, strong, and dear, 
Ryceeds my Verse to teQ, wrongs thee to bear. 

26. 

But all was there, which might become a Queen, 
A Maiden Princess, Royally airay'd 
In her pore Viigin Beauties, to be seen 
By him, whose Heart her Byes had Captive made. 
He Came, and Saw ; but thou didst Overcome : 
And Spoils he got abroad, Divide at Home. 

27. 
There Innocence and Modesty did strive, 
V^th greatest Sweetness on thy Air should dart ; 
There Magnanimity bold strokes did give, 
Able to pierce the most Obdurate Heart ; 
And scattered round such Flames of warm Desire, 
As shew'd thy Soul with Love was all on Fire. 

28. 
There every Virtue did with Honour vye, 
Which should Deserve and Have the highest Place ; 
But in just Order rank't, its Charge so ply, 
As gave, and from its neighbor took new Grace ; 
And all Giac'd Thee, who in One had them aU, 
All Virtues, as aU Souls Grand ArcenaL 

29. 

The Shadows were thy Foiles,i which lay below ; 
Hid in the Folds of thy long trailing Vest, 
But so contriv'd, that every Foil did show 
Some after battail gain'd, with lYophies dress'd, 
Whose Figures in the hightnings did appear 
And by recover'd strength thy Love mdear. 



Down at thy Foot vast heaps of Conquered lay, 
Both Foreign, and Intestine Enemies : 
SiUam their Chief, who kept them all in Pay, 
And Lust and PritU^ in their stain'd Liveries I 
But the most horrid Sight in Prospect drawn. 
Was Htrtsy, with all her CursM Spawn. 

31- 

The Missives thou thy Love didst often send. 
An His to Thee, thy abstinendes. Tears, 
The Days thou didst m Contemplation spend, 
Lents of Devotion, and Ecstatick years. 
Wherein Absorpt, thou didst whol^^df foiget, 
Thought thou wert Nothing, but wert ne'r so Great ; 



1 Canto iL v. xviL xviiL 



46 



32. 
Thy Penances, thy Works of Charity, 
Some Exemplary, some so dose, and hid 
They lay conceal'd from the most Curious eye. 
Scarce could thy Self know, what thy Self thus did : 
The Transports of thy Faith, t!\y Hopes increase. 
And midst the Fret of War, profoundest Peace. 

33- 

An these, and aU that these short Heads contain. 
Best Inventary of thy little AU, 
Yet aU thou hadst thy Spouse's Heart to gain, 
So great his Goodness, all thy Good so smaU, 

In Ebon Cabinets, on dther hand, 

Safdy put up, lay ready at Command. 

34. 
There they lay ready, for a sacrifice. 

With thy Heart on his Alter to be laid ; 

Thy Heart, which broke, found pity in his Eyes, 

Thy best Artinary Heav'n to invade 1 
AU that was Thine, Acceptance to intreat, 
AU that was His, to make thy Beauty Great. 

35- 

§ Such was the Figure of thy Looks Divine, 
With his best Art retoucht, and latest Care, 
Which Marriage treated long, at length to join, 
Beaumont did for thy absent Spouse prepare : 
And which completed, none more fit than he. 
To make the Present, and thy Envoy be. 

36. 

On the Blest Message, up he quickly went ; 
And notice of his swift Approach's given, 
A noble guard of Spirits were downward sent 
To meet him, at the utmost bounds of Heaven : 

Angels, and Souls of Just Men Perfect made ; 

Specutors Part, and Part for his Parade. 

37. 

MUlions of Leigers to the Heav'nly Court, 

Before dispatcht, and who, their Business o'r, 

CoHgi obtain'd, upon the first Report, 

To meet their Empresses Embasnulor ; 
Both to their New Come Brother honour do. 
And by theirs, let him his Reception know. 

38. 

Each had an Angd pitcht on his Right hand. 
And on his Left the Gmce He reverenc't most. 
Which over aU the Rest had fuU command ; 
A train of Vertues, and a numerous Host, 
With wide spread Banners, streaming glorious light, 
And terrible to see, more terrible to fight 

39. 
Who they might be none askt, for aU did know 
Whose each band was ; e'en Bioumomt but just come 
Knew ev*ry Standard, and saluting low, 

B 



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DR. WOODFORD S POEM ON DR. BEAUMONT. 



By an was known, and wondred at by some. 
Who oft had heard of his Great Learning's Fane, 
But knew not his whole worth, till there he came. 

40. 

The service he did Thee, and came to do, 
The Rtd^Cross Knigki, at his bold Squadrons head. 
Loudly prodaim'd, and bid his Una show 
How wen she took the Cause, that in his stead. 
He for EecUsia bravely did maintain, 
And Crowns design'd her, for her Sister fain. 

41. 

So Astr^kil, and so Urania ; 
In shouU with whom the British Poets join'd. 
All who to Heav'n had found the narrow way, 
And sacred Verse, from this World's Dross rdfin'd : 

May they aU find it, there their Tribute bring, 

Never had Albion abler Sons to sing. 

42. 
O, would they henceforth Btaumani Imitate 1 
Whom having watcht Heav'ns Verge thy Phylax meets. 
And handing to his Audience up in state, 



His Coming, and his Welcome friendly greets : 
The croud of Blessed Saints, to make him way. 
Stood ck»e^ aU listning what he had to say. 

43. 

Humbly then Prostrate, down before a Throne, 
Splendid as that, the Lov'd Disciple saw, 
And like enoompass'd, with like Glory shon. 
But which no mortal PensU dares to draw : 

Thy Pottrtraii he on the Ridi Pavement lay'd. 

And Mercy thrice, thrice Mercy only pray'd. 

44. 
Upright with Holy boldness then bid stand. 
Out from the Throne a Voice of Thunder came, 
Whkh S^ra^ks startled, and did Saints command. 
Silence to keep.— 

" Know aU ye Powers, I AM 
" Change not ; Our Royal Word to Psyekt past 
" Wni hi its Time perform ; lu Thne makes haste : 
" Psyeht Our First Love was, Psyclu shall be Our Last. 

SAM. IVOODFORD, D.V. 



NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Title-page, page 3. See Memorial-Introduction for 
the title-page of the original edition (1648): 

Dedication, page 4. See the same for simUar dedica- 
tions to God, earUer and later. 

To THE Reader, page 5, line a, 'mar* s mere, this 
or that only : L 5, ' Dereliction '= abandon- 
ment : 1. 7, ' Mttgnalia Ckristi : * this gives 
its name to Mather's famous folio of 
church-history: L 15, '/^genniiy' ^in- 
genuousness : L 19, ' Hnmami* s human. 

The Editor to the Reader, page 6, I 7, ' thai 
Reverend and Worthy Person ' »= Dr. 
Samuel Woodford (see page xo), on whom 
consult our Memorial-Introduction : L aa, 



* Latin Works:* see Memorial-Introduc- 
tion on these : 

Page 8, coL I, St XI, L i, * grutch* « grudge : coL a, 
St a3, L I, ' Port* = bearing, aspect. 

,, 9, col. I, St aS, L 6, ' Arcenal' s arsenal : coL a, 
St. 37, L I, 'Leigers* » resident or ambas- 
sador. 

„ 10, o^ I, St 40, 1. a, ' Red-Cross ICnight*—oi the 

* Faerie Queen,' and so * Una ' (1* 3) : ^ 
4X, 1. X, *^jln^«7' = Sidney as the poet 
of ' Astrophel.' Dr. Woodford wrote out 
a careful us. of Sidney and his Sister's 
verse-rendering of the Psalms. Astrophil 
was slightly disguised in the less accurate 
speUing * AstropheL'— G. 



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r^ ♦♦•>»♦>• ♦Tr*« '•■♦"4 



^f5V^«i:VVt^VV%%-^V^»t*VVVV"V< 



PSYCHE 



IN 



XXIV. CANTOs. 



CANTO I. 
The Preparative. 



The ARGUMENT. 

Enragd ai HeaVn (md Pfjrcbe, Satan laUs 
His frojeets U h^gmlt the Umdir Maid, 
Whilst Phylax froper amnUr^works doik pmist. 
And MJVJi^rwtt Joseph's Legtmd to her aid: 
That fortify* d by this ekast Patttm, Ski 
To Last's assaults iw^rtgHabk might be. 



ETERNAL LOVE, of sweetest Pdetiy 
The sweeter King, from thine high Mercies* 
Throne 
Deign to behold my prostrate Ksv, and Me : 
No Must, no Gods, bai grtater Thee alone 
I invocate ; for both his heads fiiU low 
Parnassus to thy Paradiu doth bow. 

3. 
Thy Paradiso, thro' whose foir Hills of Joy 
Those Springs of everlasting Vigor range, 
Whidi make Souls drunk with Heav'n, which deaase 

away 
An Earth from Dust, and Flesh to Spirit change. 
Wise loyal Springs, whose current to no Sea, 
Its panting voyage ever steers, but Thu, « 



Sage Mosis first thefr wondrous might descry'd, 
When, by some drops from hence imbraved, he 
His triumph sung o'er th' Erythraan Tide, 
But Royal David, and his Son, by free 
Carrowsnig in these noUy^acred Strtams 
With Poets' cfaaplets crown'd their Diadems. 



Defiance other Helicons / O may 

These preck>us Founts my Vow and Heart refine ! 

My task, dear Love, art Thou : if ever Bay 

Court my poor Muse, I'll hang it on thy sMne. 
My Soul untun'd, unstrung, doth wait on Thee 
To teach her how to sing thy MYSTER Y. 



A MYSTER Y envelop'd in a doud 
Of charming horror, barricado'd round 
With dainty Riddles, guarded by a crowd 
Of quiet Contradictions ; so profound 

A Plain, that Psyche's long-acquainted eye 

Stagger'd about its misty Clarity. 

6. 
A MYSTER Y, which other Shada beset : 
Substantial Shades, made up of j^Ud Hate ; 
Bom in the Deep, which knows no bottom, yet 
Vent'ring to blodc up Heaven's sublimest gate : 
Whilst BeUebub, in blackness damn'd to dwdl, 
Plots to have aU things else as dark as HelL 



For He, th' immortal Prince of equal spight. 
Abhors all Love in every name and kind ; 
But chiefly that which bums with flames as bright 
.As his are swarthy, and as endless find 
Their living fiid : These enrage hun so, 
That all Hell's Furia must to council go. 

8. 
For (as the wounded Lyon frights his Den 
By roaring out his grief ;) his shatter'd heart 



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12 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO I. 



Vomits a hideous groan, which thtrndring in 
His boUow reahn, bellow'd to every part 
The frightful summons : all the Pitrs bdow 
Their Kin^s voice by its sovereign s^jnk did know. 



Nor dar'd they stay their tails vast volmnes to 

Abridge into a knot's Epitome ; 

Or trim theb hoofs foul cleft with iron ihoe. 

Or their snarl'd snakes' confusion unty : 
Only their paws they fill with Pagi, and bring 
That desperate subsidy to their uuuL King. 

lo. 
Hell's Court is built deep in a gloomy Vale» 
High waU'd with strong Damnation, moated round 
With flaming Brimstone : lull against the Hall 
Roars a burnt bridge of brass : the yards abound 
With aU invenom'd Herbs and Trees, more nmk 
And fruitless than on Aspkaltitit bank. 

II. 

The Gate, whereof fv and snwke the Porters be. 

Stands always ope with gaping greedy Jaws. 

Hither flock'd all the States of misery; 

As younger snakes, when their old serpent draws 
Them by a summoning hiss, liast down her throat 
Of patent poison their aw'd selves to shoot 

12. 
The Hall was roofd wi^h everlasting Pride, 
Deep pavM with Des^ir, checker'd with S^gki, 
And hangid round with Torments far and wide : 
The front displa/d a|coodly-dreadful sight, 
Great Ststan's Aims stamp'd on an iron shidd, 
A Crvwnid Dragon Gules in sable JieUL 

13. 
There on's iiqmortal throne of Death they see 
Their mounted Lord; whose left hand jvoutl^ held 
His Globe, (for all the world he claims to be' 
His proper reafan,) whose bkxnly right did weild 
His Mace, on which ten thousand serpents knit. 
With restless ma d ne s s gnaw'd themselves, and it 

14. 
His insolent feet all other footstools sooni'd 
But what compleatest Scorn to them suggested ; 
This was 9. Cross; yet not erect, but tum'd 
Peevishly down. The robe which him invested. 
In proud embroidefy shewed that envkms Feat 
By which of /Vfroi^MS he ^tf^ did cheat 

15. 

His Diadem was neither brass nor rust. 

But monstrous Metal of them both begot ; 

Which millions of vilest Stones imbost. 

Yet precious unto him, since he by that 
ArUIlery his &tal batteries had 
On heav'n-belovM Martyrs' bodies made. 



16. 

His awful Horns above his crown did rise. 

And force hlE/ends to shrink in theirs : his fiioe 

Was triply-plated Iw^ndence : his Eyes 

Were Hell reflected in a double glass. 
Two CiMnets staring in their bloody stream, 
Two BeaoQns boyling in their pitch and flame. 

17. 
His Mouth in breadth vy'd with his palace gate, 
And conquer'd it in foot : his towny Teeth 
Were rsggM grown by endless gnashing at 
The dismal Riddle of his living Death : 
His grisly Beard a sing'd confession made 
What fiery breath through his black lips did trade. 

Which as he op'd, the Center, on whose back 

His Chair of ever-fretting Pain was set. 

Flighted beside it self began to quake : 

Throughout all Hell the barking Hydrt^s shut 
Their awM mouths : the silent Peers in fear ^ 
Hung down their tails, and on their Licdtflfid stare. 

19. 
Three times he shak'd his horns ; three times his Mace 
He brandish'd towards heav'n ; tluee times he spew'd 
Fell sulphur upward : which when on his face 
It sousM back, foul Blasphemy ensu'd, 
So big, so loud, that his huge Mouth was split 
To make full passage to his Rage, and it 

20. 
I yidd not yet ; Defiance Heaifn, said He, 
And though I cannot reach thee with my fire. 
Yet my unconqnei'd Btain shall able be 
To grapple with thee ; nor oaast thon be higher 
Than my brave S^igkt : Know, though below I dwdl, 
Heav'n has no stouter Hearts than strut hi Hell. 

21. 

For all thy vaunting Promise to the seed 
Of dust-begotten Mont my head is here 
Unbroken stiU : When thy proud foot did tread 
Me down from my own Spheres, my forehead there 
Both met and scom*d the blow : And thou at first 
(Whate'r thou taik'st to Man,) didst do thy worst 

22. 
Courage my Lords ; ye are tiie same, who onoe 
Ventured on that reoown'd Design with me 
Against the Tyrant call'd Heav*n*s righteous Prince, 
What though Chance stole from us that Victory? 
'Twas the first field wefonght ; and He being in 
His own Domittioo, might more easily wm. 

23. 
How oft have We met Him midrway since then, 
And m th' inditeent world not vainly fought I 






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13 



Forc'd We him not to yidd an mortal Men 
At onoe. but simple E^ht f though He'd be thought 
Then to have shown his poVr, when he was (m 
Basely to drown what he oould not maintain. 

24. 
Poor shift 1 yet make the best on't, still the odds 
Is onrs ; and that our yelling Captives fed : 
Ours is AjUry Delist but thdr God's 
A waUry flood: His scaice had strength to swdl 
For some vain months ; ounsoomsthebooiidsof age. 
And foams and boils with ewlasling rage. 

And let it boil, whilst to the endless shame 
Of our high-bragging Foe^ those Pris'ners there 
. With hdpless roars our Vietoiy prodaim : 
What nobler lYophies oould we wish, My vear I 
Are they not Af«» of the saiae Flesh and Blood 
With that fiail CkrifU who needs would seem a Godf 

A pretty (M, whom I, sole I, of late 
Caus'd to be fedrly hang'd, 'Tis true he came 
By stealth, and help'd by sly Night, forc'd Hdl's gate : 
But snatch'd he any Captive hence, that Fame 
Might speak him valiant? No, he knew too wdl , 
That / VKU King, and you tho Pun qfHell. 

Yet to patch up his tattered credit. He 

Sneak'd through that Gulf, to barbarous Abraham's den. 

Who for his ready inhumanity 

Was dubb'd tki FaOur of aU faithful Men. 
Less, less my PilaUt was thy Crime ; yet Thou 
(O righteous Heav'n /) now ydlest here below. 

His willing prises thence he won ; 4bat how 

Forlorn a Rout, let La/urut witness be^ 

Who the Uue pity of vile dogs, was now 

A qiedal Saint :) and this vain victory 
Homeward he bore, with banner proudly spread, 
As if with his otm. kiood t^haAwnt been r«{. 

29. 
Me thinks I oould permit him to possess 

That pilfered honor, did he now ibcbear 
My Subjects firom their Loyalty to press. 
And hire poor dieated Men his yoke to wear. 
But by my Wrath I tnttutt I'll make him know 
That I of Earth and Air am Sovereign too. 



Wdl beat, O my inmortal Ind^gmoHont 
Thou nobly sweU'st my beUdng Soul ; and I 
Sucea/s Omen feeL Brave Dgspfration 
Doth tneaJ^oAg/iar^s objections defy : 
Shall we be t^nuly damm'dt and tfew ones t)ear. 
Because cnv oid Wrongs u nw ft m gM are? 



Was't not enough, against the righteous Law 

Oi Primcgeniiure, to throw us down 

From that bright Home, which all the World do's know 

Was by most dear Inheritance our own : 

But, to our shame, Man, that vile Worm must dwell 
In our Deut Orbs, and Heaven vrith vermin fill ? 

32. 

What tridcs, diarms, promises, and mystic Arts, 

What blandishments of fainM Owning things. 

He musters up to woo these silly hearts ! 

Doubtless God-lihe into the field he brings 
This Jugling strength of his Artillery : 
Yet, who, forsooth, the Tempters are, but we ? 

33- 
Psyche, a simple thing I wot, and one 
Whom I as deeply scorn, as Him I spight, 
He seeks to make his prize ; Psyohe alone 
Takes up his amorous Thoug^u both day and night. 
Were't not our wrong, I could contented be 
Heaven's goodly Prince had such a Spouse as she. 

34. 

But she is ours ; I have design'd a place 

Due to her vUeness in yon brimstone Lake, 

Which shall revenge whatever in her face 

Do's now her histy God a Wooer make. 
He promis'd her, that with the Angels she 
Should live ; and so she shall ; but those are We, 

35. 

We, noble We, who true unto our pure 

Original, disdainM to betray 

Our native excellence ; and by demure 

Baseness, m stead of Puling, to Obey. 
What proof of virtuous bravery oould be greater, 
Than thus to scorn ev'n God himsdf to flatter? 

36. 

But since this God now thinks it fit to fly 

Ftom open Force, to his Reserve of Art ; 

Surdy 'twill no dishonour be, if I 

Deign to outplay him in his own sly part. 
That all th' amasM World may understand 
Our gallant Brain's as potent as our Hand. 

37- . 

iMstt thou Shalt give the Onset : quickly dress 

Thy sdf with every beauteous cfaanur which my 

Aerial Kingdom yidds, and subtly press 

Our counteiplot : remember but how thy 
Sweet guiles did once B^mighty King subvert. 
However fam'd to be After Gods heart. 

38. 
Then PhUamty and Pride shall stretdi her Soul 
With swelling poison, making her disdain 



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Heav'iu narrow gate ; whilst WioUh it self doth roll 
Into her bosom in a golden Rain ; 

That she may grow too rich to match with one. 

Of a/MT CarpiuUr ihtfoanr Som, 

39- 
Next shall my Secretary Hertsy 
Right sagely teach her to become too wise 
To take up poinu on trust, and foolkl be 
By sancy FaUh plainly against her eyes. 
Then Ptrstcutums flame shall earnest give 
Of that full fire which she shall here recdve. 

40. 
If still she tough and stubborn prove, do thou. 
My dear Despair , about her suUen heart 
Millions of black confusions toss, and tluoQ^ 
Her tortur'd thoughts all Hell aforehand dart 
'Tis my Prerogative, that I can dare 
To build assurM Hope ev'n on Iktpair. 

41. 

Nor shall this Service due requital want : 
That trusty lucky FUnd who do's the feat. 
Shall wear the Prite he wins, and by my Grant 
Of Charter Royal be confirm'd the great 

Matter of Prycht's torwunts; He, and none 

But he, shall order her Damnation. 

42. 

Nay for his greater honor, every night 
With seven ftiU lashes he shall plow the heart 
Of Judas and of Cain ; nor from my sight 
Henceforth on any work shall he depart. 
But here at my right hand Attendant be 
For ever, and Blaspheme the next to me. 

Go then in Gods name, but tJkat God am /, 
And here my blessing on you all I deal 
Catch but this IVenck; and by that Victory 
We'll torture CMrist more deeply than this Hell 
Doth you or Me, and so revenge the pain 
To which the Tyrant all drove Us doth chain. 



This said ; he from his scaly bosom draws 
Five Dragons' hides tann'd in the Stygian Pool, 
And scratch'd with his own Adamantine Claws. 
Then, lo, he cries, here in a several scroll 
Eadi Warrant ready sign'd. Fly, fly ; delay 
Doth oft the strongliest4dunded Plots betray. 

45. 
His Senate strait with an obsequious roar 
Applaud their Prince: and those designM Fiends 
Their Snaky-heads thrice bowing to the floor, 
Take their damn'd leave. Foxthwith a Tempest rends 
Hell's^ wide month wider ope, that thro' the gate 
lliey may their march bq^in in horrid state. 



46. 
Old TOhu wondered what wild IVeason 'twas 
Which tore her deepest Bowels ; for as from 
The monstrous Cannon's thundering mouth of Brass 
A sudden ckmd of Rage and Death doth foam. 
So from beneath these hasty Furies broke : 
Such was the flashing fire, and sudi the smoke. 

47. 
But fouler was the stink : all hcmest Flowers 
Frighted from their own sweets fell sick and dy^d ; 
Stout Trees whidi had deiy'd all Tenets powers, 
FVom this dire Breath sneak'd their foint heads aside. 
Only some venemous Weeds, whose roots from HeU 
Suck in their deadly living, lik'd the smeU. 

48. 
Uut fells to wofk the first : a Spirit as fool 
As he's ambitious beautiful to seem ; 
Unc U a mne ss keeps her Court in's muddy Soul ; 
Poison's own breath from's rank mouth's grot doth 



Black is the fire which burneth in his eye ; 
Diseases thick in every member lie. 

49. 

But being conning in the cheating trade 

Of Circe and Medea [who had been 

His Prentices,] he soon contrivM had 

What comely lie his ugly truth should screen ; 
What goodly Body's spruce hypocrisy 
Should to his filthy mind the Pander be. 

50. 
The purest Air which Virgin sweetness breaths 
On Uhanus his Cedar-crownM head. 
With Magic nimbleness he grasps, and wreaths, 
And shrinks, and kneads, and moulds, till worried 
From her soft self she is content to wear 
The shape of any Fraud he thrusts on her. 

51. 

And thns the Nyn^h, tho' weak and looae before. 
And at the mercy of each busy blast. 
Becomes a stiff stout Man : whose fece to store 
With Beautie's brightest charms, strait to the East 

The Spirit flies, and in Aurora's cheeks 

The best of Oriental sweetness seeks. 

52- 

But since his breath still reek'd with stinks, and spoke 
The Gulf which spew'd him forth ; he slop'd his flight 
To blest Arabia's Meads, from whence he took 
Each Flower's best Flower, each Spice's sweetest might : 
That from th' aromatisM double bed 
Of his soft lips, he vocal Balm might shed. 

S3. 

Then raking thousand Virgins Tombs, he there 
Plunder'd the richest of thdr Amber tresses ; 



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Whh which, new curl'd and powdered, his bare 

And parchM Scalp he amorously dresses : 
Then with perfiunM Combs instructs them how 
To smile, wave, play, and wantonly to flow. 

54. 
This done ; the Silk-worm's wealth, the Ermin's skin, 
The tissues in whose pride young Princes shine, 
Into one gorgeous suit he crowds ; and in 
Each seam doth Gold and Pearls and Gems intwine : 

For thro' Earth* s closets when his way he tore, 

He wisely pilfer'd all her gaudiest store* 

55. 

Bnt for the fiuhion he was fain to ran 

To Court, and learn how Gallants there were drest ; 

Men of more various transformations, than 

In ProUus wit or fiction e'er ezprest : 
CkameUan^s K^ff%, who rather than forbear 
To change their hue, will choose to live on Air. 

An Amarvso here he chanc'd to spy 

Devoutly idolizing Her, whom he 

Only oontri/d to undermine ; and by 

That Squire's quaint mode, he did his own decree. 
Bravely dissembled thus from head to feet. 
He plots whcie he may PsycJU safeliest meet 

57. 

That morning she was feasting it at home 

Close in the sweets of His dear company, 

Who from her Lord, the Aissj' of Souls, was come 

His restless but delicious Suit to ply. 
And with exact attendance see the Maid 
Might to no sudden danger be betray'd. 

58. 
A Mine of beauties in the Symmetry 
Of his all-ravishing aspect sweetly smil'd ; 
Heaven clearly lookM out at either eye ; 
His loseal cheeks ten thousand Gracti swdl'd ; 

As many little Lovu their Nests had made 

In the curl'd Amber of his dainty head. 

59. 
He from the Rain4xiw, as he came that way, 
Borrow'd a Lace of those fidr-woven beams 
Which dear Heaven's blnbber'd laoe, and gfld dull day ; 
And this he sew'd on all his Mantle's seams, 
A Mantle spun of milky down, which had 
On Birds of his own Paradise been bred. 

60. 

Upon his k>vely shoulders dwelt a pair 
Of oonespondent wings : no driven Snow 
On Scythian Hills durst vouch iu plumes for feir 
If questionM by these, which fear no thaw : 
Less white, less soft are they, and will at last 
With melting tears confess themselves snrpast. 



6l 

WeU did his bod/s nimble vessel suit 
A^th those its giUlant Oars ; so pliant were 
His goodly timber'd Limbs, and yet so stout. 
That Wax and Sted seem'd kindly mairy'd there. 
Hence, tho' he martial were, he lov'd to prove 
Himself the Warrior of noathaX Love, 

62. 

High is his great Extraction, full as high 
As is the loftiest and the purest Sphere : 
There reigns his Father, Prince of Majesty, 
Hiere millions of his Brethren shining are. 

And all as Princes too ; that Land alone 

Contains innumerable Realms in one. 

63. 

Yet did this Royalty not puff his heart 

Too high to his grand Sovereign's Will to bow ; 

Or count it Earthly work from Heaven to part 

And wait on Jesus' s business here below. 
O brave OUdience, whose wondrous art 
Can depth to height, and Earth to Heav'n convert I 

64. 

At Psyches birth his guardian Wing he spread 

With ready watchful tenderness, that she 

Might gently rest in that delidous bed, 

To which all other Feathers thorny be : 
Great was the Mother's care and love ; but yet 
The In£snt was to Phylax mate in debt 

65. 

That was his Name ; and sure he made it good : 

No Tutor ever spent more leamM care, 

Ilie stoutest Cham|»on never bravelier stood 

Affronting Peril, and affrighting Fear ; 
Than He in Psyche's quarrd, bdng able 
To prove himsdf as strong as she was feeble. 

66. 

For Danger never drew its Forces near 
His predous Charge, but He was nearer still : 
AU plots that Envy's cunning aim'd at Her, 
He counterplotted with profonnder skill 
While she was weak and knew not how to go, 
About flew He, and Joy'd her work to do. 

67. 

As she grew greater, so his care would grow ; 
And he must wean her too, and stretch his Art 
To damp her relish of vain things bdow. 
Which likelier were to cheat and choke the Heart, 

Than make it live its proper life ; for she 

Was bora to live unto Eternity. 

68. 

When she had leara'd to build a word aright. 

He taught her Heaven's high Language, and the Song 



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Which lately in the Quire of Sovereign light 
Had been the task and joy of his own Tongue ; 

Desiring Virttu might be her first growth. 

And HaUdujah broach her holy mouth. 

To season then and preposses her tender 

Unwritten Memory ; with Rarities 

Cull'd from Go^s Book he first allur'd her wonder, 

And then her pretty study did entice : 
Thus she well skill'd in holy Serif tmrt grtw, 
Before she knew what Book it was she knew. 

70. 
Her pimttle thus was Piety, and she 
By her own sport engagM was in Bliss : 
Long, long before her Heart oould movM be 
Her Tongue could fly thro' Love's dear Mysteries ; 
She having innocently leam'd the way 
Thro' both the serious Testammts to play. 

71. 

But when her Soul oould go, and well disoem 
The way it went ; he spread before her eye 
Tm goodly Paths; and these you needs must learn. 
Says he, to trace, as leading to the high 
Gate of pure Rest; for Go€rs own finger did 
Draw for thy feet these Tracu on Sinai's head. 



As for that hwul and glaring tocry wherein 
Wild Sinners find full space to wantonixe ; 
It leads but to the guerdon of their sin. 
And in the closest Prison ends : but this 

Which with strict straitness seems besieg'd. will thee 

Convey to everlasting Liberty. 

73- 
That straitness ne'r was meant to pend or press. 
But sure and upri^t make thy Passage : by 
The Nurse's wary hands the Child is thus 
Qose guarded when he his young feet doth try. 
This is the heavenly temper of thy Way, 
To yield full room to go, but not to stray, 

74. 
Room, room enough : the King's High-way is less 
Kingly than this : the greatest Nerves who 
Have dimb'd above the Woild, wish'd not to press 
Beyond these bounds. Be but content to go 
Where Saints, and where thy Lord before hath gone, 
That thou mayst overtake him at his Throne. 

Thus did He gently grave upon her Heart 
The Characters of Heaven ; thus every day 
He reads some Lecture, lest the Tempter's Art 
Upon her young and plyant Soul should prey. 

But they this morning being private, she 

A story bqig'd ; and thus re^yM He : 



Know then, my Dear, there liv'd a Yomtk of old 
Almost as young, and no less £dr than Thclti : 
On his rich Head smil'd a soft grove of Gold ; 
Two small half Heavens were bent in either brow. 
Nor were those Hemispheres sham'd by his Eyes, 
Which the best Stars above dar'd not despise. 

All Roses Muflh'd when near his lips they came, 
Whose purer Crimson, and whose sweeter Breath 
They thought (and well they might) their double shame ; 
No Lilly ever met him in his path. 
But dreading his pure hand, in reverent fright 
Grew pale to see it self outvy'd m white. 

7«. 
The portly Cedars whose high mounted pitch 
O'r all the Ttees advanc'd them to be Princes, 
Envy'd this stripling's lower stature, which 
Degraded their aspiring exodlendes : 
The tallest iankness shows not half so high 
In BeamtUs aaiie, ^s graceful Symmetry, 

79. 
Thus tho' compounded all of lovdy Channs, 
No wanton mixture did his sweets deflower : 
With gentle gravity his looks he arms ; 
And, as the Heaven is Heaven altho' it lour. 

So are his graces still themselves, tho' He 

Invelop them in serious Chastity, 

8a 

His noble Sire, renownM yacod was, 

Not by the (^(^ whose blear and watery eye 

Did its dim self bewail, and was the glass 

In which the Worid read her deformity : 
But by fiUr Her, who tho' she cost him twice 
Seven years hard service, low he thought the price. 

81. 
He RackeTs Son, and her best Graces heir 
For her dear sake, but much more for his own. 
Sate precious next his Father's Soul ; whose care 
Was bent his own delights in him to crown. 

He lov'd his Children all, yet fiu above 

The rest, his Jos^h he did love to love. 

82. 
(Josofh, whose strangely forward Soul would not 
Wait the dull leisure of Experience to 
Conduct him in the paths of Knowledge, but 
Speeded by Heaven did Time's own pace outgo ; 
Thus proving in his bud nuturely sage, 
And long in Wisdom, e'er in years of age.) 

83. 

He hunts about the proudest World to buy 
The choice of purest and of brightest Ck>th 



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^ 



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Brisk in the Tyrian and Sidanian dye, 
As due to his fair Darling: seeming loth 
tliat fewer Colors should embrave his Coat 
Than all the World in him did Beauties note. 

84. 
Yet when the stany Peacock doth display 
His train's full Orb, the wingM People adl 
Disgraced into anger and dismay 
Let their out-sparkled Plumes sullenly fall : 
So JosepKs Robes which his sweet self adorn. 
His Br^krtK doath with shame and ireful soom. 

85. 

And is /erf Ht alone, said murmuring They, 

His Father's lawfully-begotten Child, 

And we By-blows ? Or must his Boyship prey 

On all our Seniorities ? How wild 
A Hysteron Proteron's this, which Nature crosses, 
And fax above the top the botiom tosses I 



'Tis true, our partial Father^ tho' he were 
The puny Brother, yet right slily did 
Into that Blessing steal, to whi<^ the Heir 
Was doubtless bom : but yet by crafl he sped, 
And not by Right : had Isaac had his eyes 
As Jacob now, sure he'd have been more wise. 

87. 

But tho' the old Man loves his lucky cheat 

So well, that he upon his younger Son 

Throws all his Heart : We hope no want of Meat 

Shall force us willingly to be undone ; 
Nor any Pottage this fond Boy can dress, 
Our Birth-right buy of the least He of Us. 

88. 
Thus they repin'd ; (not knowing there was writ 
Upon Heaven's ^damantine leaves a Law, 
By which this scorn'd Yomtk was decreed to sit 
In first-bom Reuben's noble Chair, and grow 
Like'an imperial Branch, whose teeming Root 
Dips in a living Fount its blessM foot ) 

Nor oould his Jnnooencie's gentle charms 
Ptevent the tempest of their groundless hate : 
For Brotherly salutes, with froward storms 
Of scornful language they his patience beat : 
And what they dar'd not venture with their Swords 
Of Steel, they try to do by those of Words. 

90- 

Yet in the sweetness of simplicity 

Ingenuous He tells them his sacred Dream : 

From off my Bed by active Fancy I 

Hurry'd into the open Field did seem ; 
And well my Joumie's pains were paid, for she 
"N^th your dear company there blessM me. 

46 



91. 
To work we feU, and reap'd the Field, and bound 
Our Sheafs ; which strai^y started all upright. 
Mine in the midst, yours in a decent round : 
Mine fixM stood, yours seis'd with awful fright 

Their reverential heads did all incline, 

And render meek obeysance unto mine. 

92. 

This word his Brethren stung, who stamp'd and bit 
Their ireful lips ; but yet could not bite in 
Their indignation, whose high torrent split 
Their foaming Mouths : and must, said they, thy fine 
Fancies usurp and reign, and by a trick 
Down into vile contempt thy Betters kick ? 

93. 
I^tmd Brat, know'st thou what meek Obeysance is ? 
How dares thy upstart Insolence but dream 
That we thy Elders must bow down and kiss 
Thy Boyish foot, and tremble at thy Name? 
Believe it Child, 'tis not thy gewgaw Coai, 
(Tho' too too princely for thy back) can do't. 

94. 
Altho' thus smartly check' d, Heaven-^urrM He 
Dreads not his second Dream to represent ; 
Yet wisely takes the opportunity 
Of Jacob's presence, that their Discontent 

Aw'd by their Father's looks, might cooler grow, 

And civil audience to him allow. 

95. 
Then, misoonstractions to forestall, he thrice 
Bows down ; and cries. Dread Sire, and Brethren dear. 
When this last night had sealM up mine eyes, 
And open'd Heaven's, whose countenance now was clear. 

And trimm'd with every Star ; on his soft wing 

A nimble Vision me did thither bring. 

96. 

Quite thro' the Store-House of the Air I past 
Where choice of every Weather treasur'd lies : 
Here Rains are bottled up ; there Hail is cast 
In candy'd heaps ; here banks of Snow do rise ; 
There Furnaces of Lightning bum, and those 
Longbearded Stars which light us to our Woes. 

97. 
Hence towr'd I to a dainty World : the Air 
Was sweet and cahn, and in my memory 
Wak'd my serener Mother's looks : this finir 
Canaan now fled from my discerning eye ; 
The Earth was shrunk so small, methought I read 
By that due prospect, what it was indeed. 

98. 

But then arriving at an Orb whose flames 
Like an unbounded Ocean flow'd about ; 



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Fool as I was, I quak'd ; tiU its kind beams 
Gave me a hannless kiss. I little thought 
Fir* could have been so mUd ; but surely here 
It rageth, 'cause we keep it from its Sphere. 

99. 

There, reverend Sire, it flam'd, but with as sweet 
An ardency as in your noble Heart 
That Heavenly Zeal doth bum, whose fostering heat 
Makes you Heaven's living Holocaust : no part 

Of my Drtam's tender wing felt any harm ; 

Our journey, not the fire, did keep us warm. 

loa 

But here my Guide, his wings soft oars to spare. 

On the Moon*s lower horn dap'd hold, and whirl'd 

Me up into a Region, as fax 

In splendid worth surmounting this low World, 
As in its place : for liquid Crystal here 
Was the traludd matter of each Sphere. 

lOI. 
The Moon ^ras kind, and as we scourM by 
Shew'd us the Deed, whereby the great Creator 
Instated her in that large Monarchy 
She holdeth over all the Ocean's water : 

To which a Schtdule was annex'd, which o'er 

All other humid Bodies gives her power. 

I02. 
Now complemental Mercury was come 
To the quaint margin of his courtly sphere. 
And bid us eloquent welcome to his Home : 
Scarce could we pass, so great a crowd was there 
Of Points and Lines ; and nimble Wit beside 
Upon the backs of thousand shapes did ride. 

103. 
Next Vmnu*s ftboe, heavVs Joy and sweetest pride, 
(Which brought again my Moiker to my mind,) 
Into her Region lur'd my ravish'd Guid€ : 
This strew'd with Youth and SmUts and Lovt we find. 
And those all chast ; 'tis this foul World below 
Adulterates what from thence doth spotless flow. 

104. 
Then rapt to Pkehu't Oib, all paVd with gold, 
The rich reflection of his own Aspect : 
Most gladly there I would have staid and told 
How many Crowns and Thrones his Dwelling deckt, 
What Life, what Verdure, what Heroic Might, 
What peariy Spirits, what Sons of active Light. 

105. 
Out I was hurried into Mars his sphere, 
. Where Bwvy (O how cnrs'd was its grim fiewe 1) 
And Jealousy^ and Ftar^ and Wrath, and War 
Quaxrd'd, although in heaven, about their place. 
Yea, Engins there to vomit fire I saw. 
Whose flame and thunder Earth at length must know. 



106. 

Nay in a comer 'twas my hap to spy 
Something which look'd but frowardly on Me : 
And sure my watchfiil GuiJk read in mine ey 
My musing troubled sence ; for strsitway He 
Least I should start and wake upon the fright. 
Speeded from thenoe his srasonaMe flight. 

107. 
Welcome was JupiUt^s Dominion, where 
Illustrious Mildness round about did flow ; 
Rtligiom had buUt her Temple there. 
And Sacred Honors on its Walks did grow : 
No Mitre ever IMest's grave head shall crown, 
Which in those mystic Gardens was not sown. 

108. 

At length we found old Saturn in his bed ; 

And much I wonder'd how an He so dull 

Could dimb thus high ; His house was lumpish Lead, 

Of daric and solitary comers fiiU ; 
Where Discontent, and Sickness dwellers be, 
Damn'd Melancholy, and dead Lethargy. 

109. 
Hasting from hence into a boundless field, 
ImKumerable Starrs we marshall'd found 
In fiur array : This Earth did never yield 
Such choice of floury Pride ; when she had crown'd 
The plams of Shechem, where the gandy Spring 
Smiles in the beauties of each verdant thing. 

lia 
This was our joumie's end : but here began 
A stranger Pageant than aU those before : 
I, who till now Spectator was, must in 
The glorious Masque an Actor be, or more 
Than so : I still am pos'd about the case. 
But wiser you shall judge ; and thus it was : 

III. 

A knot of Lights constellated into 
A radiant Throne, on which my self was set : 
When lo, the Sun and Moon themselves did throw 
Into obsequious duty at my feet ; 
And then eleven great Stars thought it no shame 
To oouch before me who admirM them. 

112. 
But shame I thought It for poor Me to take 
Homage of Starrs, who was but Dust and Clay ; 
Big with excuse I grew, and 'gan to speak, 

But then my Dream took Wing and fled away. 

And fly thou after it, hcAA Dreamer, cry'd 

His Brethren, who in Dreams dost mask thy Pride. 

113- 
Sage yacoi, though he ponder'd every word 
In's own prophetic heart, and judg'd the Dream 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVERS MYSTERY. 



>9 



Not fram'd by Joseph, but by Jas^k's Lord; 

Expedient thought it something wroth to seem ; 
Finding no readier way that Rage to smother 
He saw smoke from his Sons against their Brother. 

"4. 
But Child, said He, where is that blush of thine 
Which us'd to paint meek Virtue on thy lace 1 
How dar'st thou tell a Dream which doth design 
Unto thy puny Sdf such Sovereign place ? 
Think'st thou thy Brethren and thy Parents must 
Crouch to young thee, and lick thy foouteps' dust ? 

"5. 

Or dream no more, or thy fond Dream conceal, 

If any fiancy rise which may offend : 

On this condition I thy pardon seal. 

And all thy Brothers shall their quarrel end. 
Go yon my Sons, be careful of my sheep : 
This Boy at home as meek as them I'll keep. 

Il6. 

And so he did : for little pains it cost 

To tutor Him whom Virtue long ago 

EspousM had ; the Care be found which most 

Btisied his loving tenderness, was to 
Prevent his being made that Mischiefs prey 
Which rankling in his Brothers bosoms lay. 

117. 
Dear Jos^ see thy caution be no less 
Than in thine Innocence ; take heed how these 
Thy Brethrens^nger thou, said he, dost press, 
Least its rebound thine own blood out do squeeze. 
I know their furies, and from whence they move : 
O that their ground of Hate should be my Love 1 

118. 

Hast thou not mark'd bow if a flint we lay 

Soft on a downy bed, and gently smite ; 

Its conquer'd stubbomess gives willing way : 

But harshly nsM, it defies our might, 
And spits its sudden rage in fire, nor shall 
The stoutest hammer cool its wrath at all. 

119. 

Those bosoms of my Sons sure cannot be 

More hard than Hardness, and the Flints stiff heart : 

Or if my charity decdveth me. 

Thy MiWnfiTO must be temper'd with sudi art 
As may the sofkness of that Down exceed 
WUch on the Cygnet's dainty neck is bred. 

12a 
When they begin to bhister, give them way ; 
T has often cost the boldest Cedar dear 
To grapple with a Storm ; whilst flowr's which lay 
Their weak heads low in meek and trembling fear. 
Waiting the teisure of the Wind, again 
Rise up mibnds'd, and see the Cedars sUdn. 



121. 

Thus I of late thy furious UnkU met. 

Whose Indignation I had kindled by 

More than a Dream ; and made him vow that great 

A£front with no less venganoe upon my 
Head to return, and in a murderous fit 
Tear back his Birthright, and my life with it 

122. 
With droves of Presents, the best bribes of wrath, 
I meekly block'd up his Revenge's way : 
With gentlest phrases I bestrew'd his path ; 
Seven times before his feet I prostrate lay ; 

And by submission so superior grew. 

That from the jaws of Rage untouch'd I flew. 

123. 

And now, sweet Child, 'cause many days are gone' 
Smoe sullen they went hence ; lest they surmise 
I treasure all my Joys in thee alone. 
Feasting mine own on thy all-lovely eyes ; 
To morrow thou unto their Folds shalt go. 
And in their Father's name see how they do. 

124. 
The virtuous Youth of this Commission glad 
Thought the nocturnal hours all clogg'd with lead ; 
Fir'd by ingenuous Zeal, such hast he made 
That Time seem'd unto him asleep in bed : 
^ And since his thoughts afore were marchM, He 
No longer patience has behind to be. 

125. 
Long e'er the Mom her eylids had withdrawn 
And op'd the East into its hopes of day. 
Up was he got and drest, and by his own 
Fair eyes being lighted well on in his way ; 
Conning Submission's language as he went, 
And plotting how his Brethren to content 

126. 
But by the various beauties of his Coat 
Discerning him from forr. Behold, said they. 
The saucy Dreamer comes ; and since w' have got 
Free help of time and place our foe to slay, 
Wisdom commands us to prevent in time 
That Tyranny to which his Pride doth dimb. 

127. 
O no, cries Reubeu (one in whose mild heart 
More genuine drops of Jacobus blood did thrill,) 
He is a Child, and acts but his own part : 
Dreams are but flitting toys ; but if we spill 
His harmless blood, the spot upon our head 
A^ll be no Dream, believ't, but GuiU indeed, 

128. 
O rather give hfan to yon' gaping pit. 
That he from you may only have his grave : 



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CANTO I. 



Let Fate's sure wrath, or wild Beast's fury fit 
Him with a death, and bury in that Cave 
Your less offence : doubtless no Stars will bow 
To him whom from the sight of heaven you throw. 

129. 
Whilst Rtubin thus with cmeI4oo]dng Love 
Him from the worst of rage [dots to secure ; 
The gentle Stripling near was drawn, and strove 
With lowly winning gestures to allure 

Kind entertainment : but alas in vain ; 

Dtstrt swells Envy up with more disdain. 

As hungry Wolves upon the helpless Lamb, 
Upon him strait they rush, who fruitlesly 
Ran o'er all blandishments sweet Wit could frame 
To tune their harsh Wrath to mild Concord's key : 
With loud revilings his meek Prayers they drown. 
And stripp'd, into the deep pit throw him down. 

131. 
Down Josiph sunk ; and up went thefa* proud Cry 
In Scom*s ignoble triumph : See, said they, 
How low our Loyai Sktaves couch down to thy 
Iw^erial BundU : See how flat we lay 
Our twinkling trembling Stars before the bright 
Eflusions of thy dread and royal Light. 

I3«- 
O that the old and crasy Moon and Sun 
Should now foigetfiil of their duties be. 
And let their Wheels in any Circle run 
But that which might their homage roul to thee I 
Thus flouted they, and heartned one another 
Lower to plunge their most dejected Brother. 

133- 
But then a troop of Merchants passing by. 
They money of more precious Joseph make : 
The thrifty Iskmaelites admired why 
For such rich Ware they would so little take : 
No new-digg'd Pearl such fair beams ever shot 
As beauteous He drawn from his mirey grot. 

134- 
Yet twenty silver pieces was his price. 
Which soon they paid ; and now were sure they bore 
To Memphis* s Mart frir richer Merchandise 
Than all their swelling Packs of Midian store. 
And thus the Sidnt a slave to strangers is. 
As were his Brethren to strange Avarice. 

135- 
Yet fold they not his Coat: With this said they. 
As Jacob vez'd us, We'll vex Him again. 
There innocent Brother's pattern then they slay, 
A gentle Kid ; with whose meek blood they stain 
The Robe ; which thus unto their Sire was sent 
Blushing for them, whose own shame all was spent 



136. 

And soon He knew't O me, the good Man cries, 
It is my Joseph's Coat, all wildely rent. 
And Bloody too : Be free my weeping eyes, 
Y* have nothing now to do but to lament : 

That only Day which jo/d and blest your sight. 

My Darlings frux lies buriM in night. 

137. 

Ah sadly-predous ReHctI and were all 

Thy glorious Colours not enough without 

This frual tooHoo-oostly Crimson 1 shall 

I by my Joy's choice Livery be tau^t 
Only my Sorrows to remember, and 
By the torn fleece my Lamb's death understand ! 

138. 

Dear Coo/, behold I rend mine own with thee. 
Less. O less worthy to be whole than thou. 
Sure some wild beast thy Master tore, and me 
Together with him, though I feltoiot how. 

Unrighteous partial Beast, which didst forbear 

Me in my old less worthy self to tear. 

139- 

Sweet Child, I hop'd to have prevented thee 

In seeing Rachel thy deceased Mother : 

But surely long behind I will not be, 

Thy death brings grief enough my life to smother ; 
I'll come as £ast as an old Man can go, 
And see you both : Peace Friends, it must be so. 

140. 
But holy Joseph now to Bgypt brought. 
Is set to sale ; where Pot^har, the head 
Of Pharaoh's guard, the goodly Str^Utig bought ; 
And in 's ingenuous countenance having read 

Pure characters of Worth, he doubted not 

All freest Ttust in his fair Slave to put. 

141. 

Nor did the issue ever flag below 

His expectation ; for fidelity. 

For care, for prudence, his Example now 

The only Rule to all the rest must be : 
Each Servant daily is admonishM 
To mind his charge, as trusty Jos^ did. 

142. 
But how could they keep pace with Him, who through 
Successes paths was led, and hastned by 
Heaven's constant prospe ro us hand. Earth knew not 

howl 
Which when his wondring Master did descry. 
With pious Wisdom thus concluded He : 
My Servant has some greater Lord than Me, 

US- 
Contented therefore only with the Name 
Ot Master, Him he trusts with every key 



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21 



Of highest charge, impow'ring him to Fhune 
As he thought best, his whole Oeconomy. 
Thus did this nnknown Siave the Lord become 
Though not of his own Lord, yet of his H(m€, 

144. 

Lord of Ids Home^ yet more his Servant stiU 

Than an his numerous Family beside : 

High was his Place, but Lowliness did fill 

It to the top : Thus He on Honor's tide 
Was more securely bom, by striving how 
Against the envy-breeding stream to row. 

145. 

But whilst this wonderous Steward doth allure 

AU other eyes to reverential Love ; 

His Mistresses grew sick of an impure 

And black disease : which did it self improve 
To sndi foul strength, that now abroad it flies 
Like BasUisk's beams, to poison neighbour eyes. 

146. 

Deep was it bred in that invenom'd Lake, 

Whkh in hell's bottom stinks ; from whence a Fiend 

It in a red hot vial up did rake, 

And by unfdt degrees profoundly blend 
V^th fsOr Potipkera*s blood ; whose tainted veins 
Were strait made chanels otLmsfs boiling pains. 

147. 
Though JosepKs virtue might aforehand be 
Assurance of denial, yet her flame 
With such impatient fury burnt, that she 
An amorous enchantments brews to tame 

His rigid heart Lust ne'r despairs to try 

A dud in Wit's field with Chastity, 

148. 

What ever word inhanoeth JosepKs praise. 

Her Echo doubles it, and doth supply 

Some more pathetic and transcendent phrase 

To raise his Merit to a pitch so high. 
That He oblig'd in modesty might seem 
To Her to render what she heap'd on Him. 

149- 
Of partial Fortune she did oft complain 
Who with no Crown rewarded Josephs brow : 
Then that Complaint as oft retract again. 
And cry: Her boons kt fooUsh /'tfrftriw throw 

On worthless heads ; more glorious 'tis by ftr 

A Diadem to merit, than to wear. 

150. 

With many a courtly wile she pry'd and sifted. 

His parentage and £unUy to find : 

AU which when prudent He more subtly shifted ; 

In iawning discontent she cry^d, unkind 
Can Sweetness iprcfwe, and not inform us where 
That lair StocM grows whose Branches wonders are I 



151. 

If any bit were choice, she thought it due 
To Josephs palate more than to her own : 
The rarest flowers which in her garden grew 
Must out be cuU'd, and wreathd into a crown. 
Or some quaint posie, which herself invents. 
And in a smile each mom to him presents. 

153. 

Go's He abroad? with longing eye she stiU 
Doth to the furthest prospect him pursue ; 
And sadly counts the tedious minutes tfll 
His wish'd return doth feast her hungry view : 
His shadow's bliss she envies, which hath free 
Leave his dear Bodie's FoUower to be. 

"53. 

Stays he at home? not aU the world can catt 

Her thoughts abroad : some pretty quaint pretences 

She duly finds to be concem'd in all 

Her StewanTs busmess ; and with speaking glances 
Labors to intimate, that she has more 
Delicious work for lovely him in store. 

154. 

If he be wen, she dares not but be so : 

If he be sick, she scoraeth to be weU ; 

And 3ret about him will be busy too, 

To hold his head, or hand, his cup to fill. 
His meat to dress, but most his bed to warm, 
And watch all night that Jos^h take no harm. 

155. 

Creeps Chillness on him ? She foments and heats 
His flesh, but more profoundly bums her own. 
The precious dew, if feaverish he but sweats. 
She wipes, and treasures up in amorous lawn. 
Thus hot or cold, some way she doth devise 
To feast on him her Touch as well's her Eyes. 

156. 
And more significant that Touch she makes 
By odd and sudden pressures, which Design 
Taught Chance to counterfeit : deep-lakl mistakes 
She covers with Solicitude, and in 
Wary hypocrisy leU slip her hand 
Much farther than she seem'd to understand. 



^57. 

Then by officious carelesness her own 

Robe she instructs how to betray her skin ; 

And strait corrects that error of her gown. 

Yet studiously leu it err again ; 
By this sly dalliancft of the crafty bait 
Hoping what she could not subdue, to cheat. 

158. 
O with what thankful hecatombs did she 
The Altars load, if from the smaUest ache 



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CANTO I. 



Jos^ were freed : yet that Idolatry 

With which her Gods she flattred, coidd not match 

This which at Josephs shrine she daily paid ; 

More of kis anger, than of Htav'm afiaid. 

159. 
Whate'r she tees, or sweet, or rich, or rare, 
She something in his Person findeth stiU 
To which those precious things must not compare : 
And in impatient ^au/'/ bold4x»iling seal 
At last she cries, Horn hUssid should I be, 
JfPoHpkar Win smck anotuas Thut 

160. 
He ken'd that treacherous Language for a while 
No more than do's the Lark the Fowler's pipes. 
But when he 'gan to smell her dangerous wile 
Now by its stink betrayed ; off he wipes 
That pfaise's froth which she so thick did strow, 
And by his own Blush taught Her what to do. 

161. 
But dull to that hard lesson finding Her, 
To Heav'n's tuition he commends her heart : 
His own sweet Looks then souring with severe 
Sternness, against Lusts shaft he throws the dart 
Of Continence ; and by neglected Dress 
Feigns, what he oouM not make, Unloveliness. 

162. 

Never did Slovtiuy more misbecome 
Nor more confute its nasty self than here : 
The Son in dusky clouds, in dhrt a Gemm, 
Of Joupk now but faint half-^embkmes were ; 

So stoutly his oppressM Beauty got 

The Tictory o'r its inoonrag'd Blot 

163. 
This fore'd Him virtuously to undermine 
His graceful virtue, and grow plainly rude. 
Yet Rudeness too in Jos^h fair did shine. 
And by repulses drew what he eschew'd : 
She, like the Ball, the stoutlier on the ground 
'Tis thrown, with greater seal doth back rebound. 

164. 

In 's Ladfs ear at length right wisely He 

High Panegyrics of his Master made, 

And magnifyd her rare felicity 

Who Virtue's own Spouse to her Husband had : 
Bat signally above his other praises, 
That of his constant CAastity he raises. 

165. 

This Word of all the rest, most deeply stung 
Her unchast heart : She now resolves, no more 
To rack her self vnthin, but pkdnly bring 
To li^t her soul's dark torments, and before 
Her StewartTs fooe her wounded bosome ope, 
That Pity him might force those wounds to stop. 



166. 

His shyness to surprize industrious she 

Having an ambush in her garden laid ; 

Fortune, the friend of vice, and enemy 

Of virtuous Worth, Him to her wish betray'd : 
Where, Serpent-like in Paradise, she over 
Her foul Design spread this fair-faoM cover : 

167. 
Sweet Sir, said she, though Wit's own Pride you are. 
In our Egyptian Hieroglyphics you 
Seem yet but little studied ; wherefore here 
I'm come to be your Tutoress, and bestow 
My dearest skill ; being grievM much to see 
You in the best of Arts unleam'd shouki be. 

168. 
The dialect of that tenderness and praise 
I showrfed thick upon you day by day. 
You understood not, though ten thousand-ways 
I try*d to speak it plain : And wliat I pray, 

Meant all that sweet ado, but only Uiis, 

PoUphera in love with Jos^h is f 

169. 

Nay, start not at the word, nor think that thy 
Affected sourness can thy sweets imbitter : 
Dear Hjrpocrite, I know thy plot, and by 
Love's Powers I swear, thy value grows but greater 
By that contraction : Thus heaven's Tapers are 
So much the higher as they less appear. 

170. 

Just, just my Passion is ; and hear how I 

With solid aiguments can make it good : 

' Tis sacrilege to let Divinity 

Pass by unloved: yon banks of Nilus's flood 
Did ne'r Serapis half so God-like see. 
As this more blessM garden's walks do thee. 

171. 
Which as thou traversest, thou by the way 
The dioisest flowers instructest with thine eye 
How to look brisk and brave, how to display 
Some pretty beam of amorous Majesty : 
By their steps dainty copy thy frdr feet 
Teach all the Beds of Spices to grow sweet. 

172. 
When on yoo crystal Fount thou deignst to look. 
It tickles the soft Nymph to think that she 
Is by thy self each evening made the book 
Where thy sweet fistoe thou printest Wo is me. 
Why was not I a Fountain too, that thou 
Thy dear impression might'st on me bestow I 

173. 
That Appletree's fresh ruddy Sons, which fai 
Their mother's arms so deUcatdy smile, 



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' Less approbation from wise jadges win 
Than thy plump cheeks* which such full graces swell. 
That had my soul's best longing leave to choose, 
My tast should banquet on no fruits but those. 

174. 
Right lovely are those arms that courteous ^ne 
About herstrait-embracM Elm doth throw : 
But how much, how much pleasanter are thine I 
In whose blest bands were I a Pris'ner now, 

Not all heaVn's high temptations should on me 

Prevail once to accept of liberty. 

175. 
Wouldst count me wanton, if I long'd to kiss 
That youthful Rose, which looks inchantments there? 
Yet hb soft ruby lips themselves confess 
Dusky and harsh, when they with thine compare. 
And is't a Crime, to wish that Kiss which poses 
The purest complement of virgin Roses ? 

176. 
That Nightingale which hants yon cypress grove 
I thou^t th' Inttlligaue of Music's sphere ; 
Till thy more charming Accents did reprove 
My monstrous error : And if but to hear 
Inamoring thee, such ravishment doth steal 
Into my heart, what would it do Kofulf 

177. 
Long did my Husband woo the Gods, to gain 
Their blessfaig on his pining stock ; yet he 
Did still as needy as devout remain, 
Untill he thrived by diviner Thtt. 

Judge then what reason I have to inshrine 

And honor now no Deity but thitu, 

178. 
And sure I'm orthodox in this, and dare 
Dispute it with the graveliest-cheating Priest : 
For house and home those Gods beholden are 
Plamly to Us : but We our selves are blest 
With ridi subsistence by thy influence : Thus 
Wt keep our Gods, but Thou, Thou heeptst Us. 

179. 
Hath Natmrt any beauteous Piece to make 
On which her credit stands ingagkl? She 
Distrusting her own fiancy's power, doth take 
Her copy from Perfection in Thee. 
O, wouldst thou fiedl to woric thy self, above 
All Rarities must thy Productions prove. 

180. 
The Mom betimes repaireth to thine eye. 
And asks what weather heaven shall have that day : 
In vain the Clouds combine to damp the sky. 
If thou thy Face's sunshine dost di^lay : 
If thou but lowr'st, in vain the foolish Air 
Fofceth it self to smile, and to look fieur. 



181. 
What fools our Scholars are, their time, and care, 
And brains upon the Stars above to spend. 
Searching the Seasons which are hatching there t 
'Tis Heresy, say I, but to ascend 

Above the Orb of thine illustrious Eye, 

The feirest book of best Astronomy, 

182. 
This way no >^nds from blest Arabia trade, 
But from thy mouth snatch thy more bahny Breath 
Into their own ; and as they forward speed. 
With gallant Odours all pedume their path. 

The world admires whence such rich BkbSts should fly; 

But none the sweet Original know, but I. 

183. 

For strange ev'n to thy self thou needs vrilt be, 

And take no notice how all Excellence 

In thee alone doth hold its Monarchy. 

I tell thee Dear, 'tis but a fond pretence 
Which thou call'st Modesty, and might undo thee. 
If Providence had not sent me unto thee. 

184. 

Let me be bold, that so I may be loyal ; 

Duty, not Envy, spurs me now to speak : 

And if my Zeal be check'd with a Denyal, 

(Which Love forbid 1) yet shall thy stem mistake 
But whet the edge of my fidelity, 
Since none dare tell thee of this fault but I. 

i8s. 
Canst dream wise Heaven's strange Bounty ever meant 
To plant the best of all its store in thee. 
TThere to ly hid and dy, and not be spent 
In their free course of natural Charity f 

Let those be Chast, who can no love invite ; 

'Twere sin in thee, created for delight. 

186. 
Indeed the other Photnix knowhig none 
Of his own feathered kind, is fain to spend 
His virgin love upon himself alone, 
And hatch his life's beginning by its end : 
His amorous flames kill and revive him so. 
That to himself he's Son and Father too. 

187. 

But Thou, as rich and fair a thing as He, 

Hast fitter fuel for thy fire : Lo here 

I ready dnkd am with thirst to be 

Its sacrifice ; and will thy bed prepare 
With such life*breeding sweets, as shall contest 
With all the spices of the Pheenix nest. 

188. 
In this dear pile of Aromatic love 
We'l bum together and vie flame with flame : 



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Why may this Bonfire not mount &r above 

The Pkcmi^^s in more renownM &me ; 
With much discreeter fervency reprieving 
The old, and life to a new Jostph giving ? 

189. 

To my oontrivonent leave the welcome care 

Of making sore that he, and none but he 

To PoHfkar's estate do prove the heir. 

Indeed, plain Justice calls for this ; since we 
Owe all our wealth to thee, whose child can merit 
But only thine, that portion to inherit ? 

190. 

Why stay we then ? The goodJUan 's now from home, 
As he is from my heart ; which both are thine. 
Fear not this glaring Day ; II make Night come 
With one quick twitch, and doud up our design : 

Close are my Curtains, and no tales they tell ; 

Come then, my dearer self, all shall be well. 

191. 
So foam'd hot iMst from her hell-kindled heart. 
But sober Joseph (though youth's nimble flame 
licap'd in his sanguine breast,) well knew the part 
Of cool chast Gravity, and how to tame 

If not her fury, yet whatever heat 

Could Lust's wild March in his own bosome beat 

192. 
MetdaMt no hast ; since you vouchafe, said He, 
All love to me, of all love hear me speak : 
To travel in Suceasis company 
Hast has no patience ; but delights to make 
Her pace so fierce and violently mad 
As quite outruns all fortune but the bad. 

193. 

Chiefly when Passion cheats her of her sight, 

Concealing all the dangers of the way ; 

So that her wildfires flames afford no light 

But desperate darkness to her passage. Say, 
Say then, can headlong Lust a good end find 
When both her self, and her fond God are blind ? 

194. 
Were they not so, how couldst thou me invite 
To those strange Joys that must lie sneaking in 
Thy guilty curtains, and avoid heav'n's light. 
As too too frUr a witness for a sin 
So foul and hellish. Thus aforehand thou 
AshamM art of what thou fain wouldst do. 

195. 
Call hither but thy Men or Maids ; or walk 
With me into the Market-place, and there 
Try if thou dar'st that ugly motion make : 
O no I Thy Rhetoric's best wardrobe ne'r 

Will furnish thee with any dress so spruce 

As may in others ears this filth excuse. 



196. 

Did I those high elogiums merit, thou 
Didst gild me with, I could return them back 
As arguments against thy suit : For how 
Can su<di bright beauty choose to grow so black 1 
Such prodigies are past : No more must Evil 
Hope of a Luci/er to make a Devil, 

197. 
True, I a Slave was to my Master brought. 
And unto You in him ; but not to Lust : 
Yet my Desert, or his mistake, hath wrought 
So great a change, that in my uag\s trust 
He treasures up his numerous Family, 
Whereof He Pother, I must Ruler be. 

198. 

Thus gave he me my freedom fix>m the bands 
Of Vassallage, but not of Virtue too. 
O no ; this obligation stricter stands. 
And Joseph must more hearty homage do 

To Potiphar, than meanest they who lie 

StDl fetter'd in the sink of slavery. 

199. 
Trusty obedience is an their debt. 
But most ingenuous Loyalty is mine : 
Their limbs and labours he did purchase, but 
My heart and soul : And O what more divine 
Distinction of our duties can you have I 
lliey to his Power, I to his Love am Slave, 

20a 

Seest that fiur Sum, to whom his God hath given 

The fifee dispensing of his stock of Light 

To all the starry Family of heaven ? 

When that high Steward can his Master slight. 
Then (nay not then) the copy hope to see 
Of that Ingratitude transcrib'd by me. 

201. 
Himself my Lord ne'r gave into my hand, 
Hierefore not Thee, who art but one with Him : 
Nor could he do it, since so close a band 
Do's cement you together, that no limb 
Of his own Body Nature's hand did join 
Nearer unto himself than is all thine. 

202. 
O wish me not so barbarous as to tear 
Hhn from himself, and rend you both in sundtr. 
If needs I must be faithless, be it there 
Where I may nothing but his Fortunes plunder. 
What Cheat is more inhuman, than to seem 
To spare his Goods, and yet imbesil Him f 

203. 

Except the venerable Temples, what 

Place is more reverend than the Nuptial Bed ? 



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CANTO I. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



25 



Nay heav'n has made a Temple too of that 
For Chastitie's most secret Rites : and did 
I violate its sanctity, no less 
Than sacrilegious, were that wickedness. 

204. 

In min thon plead'st, that PoHphaf's away : 

He's so to none but those who serve his eye ; 

And therefore all the while they him obey, 

Obey not him, but base necessity. 
True Duty's Master at her lo^ hand 
When He's abroad, as well's at home, doth stand. 

205. 

But grant Hhn absent : still God*% round about, 
And in the midst, between ev'n Me and Thee ; 
His eye needs make no search to spy us out, 
Whidi Us before we were at all, did see. 
I would not wrong My Master^ but much less 
Injure that God, who is my Lord and HU, 

206. 

A Lard whose Indignation is attended 

By all heav'n's thundering artillery : 

A Lord whom wilful Rebel ne'r offended 

With safe and unrevengM vQlany. 
A Lord whom did not Pow'r make awful, yet 
His Goodness might our reverence beget 

207. 
A Lord so pure, that we may saflier gan 
Upon the bumish'd Sun's meridian beams. 
Than he bis eye can fasten on God^s fajot ; 
A £Eioe whence such excess of lustre streams. 

That Ht in mercy casts on Us below 

A veil, which though We cannot, Ht looks through. 

20S. 
Ht looks through that, and through all Curtains too 
Which we upon our selves and sins would draw. 
■ Far be that fondness then, that we should go 
Seddng some secret hole to break His Law, 
And there no less expose to his bright Eye 
The foulest of all spots. Adultery. 

209. 
A spot which me so black would make, that thon. 
Who with such loving fury me dost woo. 
For mere deformity wouldst never know 
Me more, but scom'd and hated let me go : 
So woukl I do my self, and never stay 
With Joseph, knew I bow to run away. 

2ia 
Yet with so much more hideousness that spot. 
Madam, in you would stare, as you exceed 
In beautie's choicest wealth : We wonder not 
When dusky moles in Luna's cheeks we read ; 
But should SoFs face such foul hicroacbments wear. 
Each mole would prove a Mount of blackness thoce. 

46 



211. 
O be what happily you are, be what 
All other Ladies emulate in vain : 
And since your Goodliness admits no blot. 
Still let your Virtue too indure no stain : 

At least let not your slave that monster be 

Who most defile such noble purity. 

212. 

Ask or command me what you please beside : 
If you'l dispatch me to the farthest Sea, 
To fetch yon Pearls ; the Sun shall not out-ride 
My restless course, nor any Jewels be 
Tteasur'd so deep in the profoundest main. 
But I will dig them thence and come again. 

213. 

Or speak the word, and I'l revenge your wrong 
On these bold sweets of my inchanting face 
Which have abus'd and tempted you so long : 
Hiese nails of mine shall those fiEur charms erase, 
And plow such ghastly wounds, as strait shall heal 
All those, my beauty made your bosom fed. 

214. 
I'l soon transform my self into a state 
Which more your Pity, than your Love, shall cmve : 
Or if this truer Love of mine you hate. 
Some where or other I shall find a grave ; 

And there with greater comfort rest my head. 

Than if I slept on your delicious bed. 

215. 
My grave's worst worms can never deeper gnaw 
Than this poor flesh : but in thy bed will breed 
One so rapacious, as quite through and through 
My heart will eat, and on my conscience feed. 

Ah Madam Here, what he had more to say 

Sighs cutting off, he sadly tum'd away. 

216. 
As when a mighty Torrent hasting on, 
Is by some sturdy Bank cfaeck'd in his way ; 
The waters roar, and foam, and swell upon 
Themselves, for spight at their proud Joumy's stay ; 
So did PoHf hern's heart, whose lustful coone 
Unshaken, Jos^h back again did force. 

217. 

A thousand Passions boyling in her breast 

Raise up a Tempest of rebellious flames ; 

Whose Tide disdaining what did it resist. 

Beau with themselves ite unsucoesful streams ; 
Till miserably wrack'd, most woful she 
Quite sinks in this sdf-tonnent's monstrous Sea. 

218. 
Fair Day to her seems nothing but a mist 
Through which no hopes can dawn on her desire : 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVBS MYSTERY. 



CANTO 1. 



Still Night, which to all others sealeth rest. 
Wakes and alanns her heart-oonsuming fire : 

Whether she walks, or sits, or stands, or lies. 

Her wretched self still in her self she fries. 

219. 

She finds no relish in the daintiest memt, 

Bat only on distracted fiemdes feeds : 

The spiokl wine, to other palates sweet. 

Mocks her's alone, and odious loathing, breeds ; 
Thidc sighs and tears from her swoln mouth and eyes 
Echo the storms, which in her bosom rise. 

220. 

With her most pliant bed of fawning down 
No wrath of thorns in sharpness may compare, 
Because her husband (now too much her own) 
And not her Jos^h^ her joy's Spouse, is there. 
Ah my dear PsycJu^ where, ah where may we 
With Heavenly love a soul thus wounded see I 

221. 
Oft she reaew*d her suit, but su'd in vain : 
Till faint and sick, at last she asks him how 
He would her murder answer? Such a stain 
Will scarce become, said she. thy lovely brow ; 
Deep in th' unnatural furrows of whose frown 
The seeds of my unhappy death are sown. 

222. 
But finding him still, like the constant Rock. 
Fiz'd firm upon his solid Chastity ; 
Her final resolution she awoke, 
And an her passionate strength with it, that she 

Might now correct her soomM Love's mishap 

By valiant managing her {dotted Rape. 

223. 
Shall squeamish He my Pleasure's harvest, by 
Fond superstitious coyness thus prevent? 
Since by my softness he grows harder, I 
By Toughness now must teach him to relent : 

I must, cry'd she ; there's now no way but one ; 

Though he will not be woo'd. he shall be won. 

224. 

Fool as I was. to sigh, and weep, and whine 

Out long complaints, and pine my sdf away. 

Just FtiU doth Cowards* projects countermine. 

Whilst only venturous Couragt gets the day. 
Lov^s Bow and Quiver signify that he 
Is friend to none but such as warlike be. 

225. 
ResolvM thus, her former withering hope 
Into proud forward confidence did flourish ; 
And perchM now upon Presumption's top 
Her Lust with fancy she mean while doth nourish, 

Until the fit and lucky season might 

Her freely to the real feast invite. 



226. 

Which Invitation often chid by her. 
And challenge of leaden-pac'd delay. 
At length appear'd, when tedious Pot^kar 
And all her tell-tale servanU were away. 

She wdcom'd it. as fierce flames do their fnd. 

And flew with raging joy unto her dueL 

227. 
For having caught her Jostph an alone. 
She Harpie-like dap'd one bold taUon fast 
Upon those Qoaths she wish'd had not been 00 : 
Her other Arm about his neck she cast : 

Loose was her coat, bewraying more than He 

Desif d to view, or I to teU to thee. 

228. 
My Pris'ner then she cries, art thou, as I 
Have long been thine, though thou didst scorn thy 

Prise; 
But better use of thy Captivity 
I vow to make : Thou shalt no more despise 
My Praytrs^ for I CowMmamd thee now to be 
Whether thou wilt or no. happy with me. 

229. 

Since you no other Arguments would trust 

Of my Lavis stremgth, this Act shaU make it plain. 

Know that this battel is my first, iK>r must 

You dream that I'l turn Warrior in vain. 
I but supply your part ; 'tis fit that when 
The Males wiU not, the Females play the Men. 

23a 

Perhaps thy needless maiden modesty 

Stay'd by thy Lover to be ravish'd ; for 

Your nicer Beamius, though they long to be 

As kind as love can wish, seem to abhorr 
Assent's free phdnness, and aU tricks devise 
How to be Phmdir's, not Permati^'s prise; 

231. 

Lo then, that feat is done ; as fisr at least 

As may secure your Credit's Jealousy. 

But if my loyal love you stiU resist ; 

Behold, I deeply swear hy Tka, Iqr Tku 
(Whom yet I only worship,) that no blood, 
But from thy heart, shaU nuJie that damage ^ood. 

232. 

Not of that tnkewarm Mtdioeriiy 
Yon duU-soul'd Men mistake for Virtsu, but 
Ofbrave£jR»y/we H^mmw temper'd be : 
Our Spiriu are aU Superlatives ; and what 
Extremities exalt our Z^v«r. the same 
Wni blow up our provok'd Rtuengt's flame. 

233. 

Loud n exdaim. and ten the Houshold how 
With lustful force thou here surpris^dst Me : 



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CANTO I. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVJE'S MYSTERY. 



27 



This monstrous Crime will cost tl^ life ; for know 

Mj Lye can soon out-iaoe thy verity. 
Hadst thou not better take thy pleasure here, 
Than be for nothing, judg'd a Ravisher? 

234. 
Whilst thus her rampant Passion boUM, He 
Wisely considered, that no cool Reply 
Conld slack its rage : the Storm to that degree 
Was swollen now so desperately high, 

That venturing any longer stay to make, 

Was but to run upon a certain wrack. 

235. 

He therefore through dose paths of wary hast, 

Hunts his escape ; and loosning secretly 

His upper garment, which she grasp'd so fiast. 

Leaves that to her, and out himself doth fly. 
Tlie wise and watchful Serpent thus knows when 
Tis fit to stop her ear, and cast her skin. 

236. 

But she with such an hideous outcry tears 

Her throat, that all th' anuu^d fieunily 

Into her Chamber brings their staring fears ; 

Where on her bed, heaving a wofiil sigh, 
Behold, said she, this garment : which of you 
Would think the Hebnw Siavt so bold should grow ? 

237. 
He thought, because his Master was from home. 
My Faith had been so too : He thought that he 
Might as his Lord's Vicegerent freely come 
And challenge right ev'n to my chastity. 

Twas time to cry f which I no sooner did. 

Bat he, the guUty hypocrite, was fled. 

238. 
He fled, but left for fearful hast behind 
That pledge of his unfortunate impudence ; 
For, confident he me should willing find. 
Off went the VUlam's clothes. Come bear me hence 
Ftom this curs'd place : but bring the Vest with me. 
That Potifkar his Darlings badge may see. 

239. 

In desperate Revenge engagM thus. 

Her spigfatful slander she contriveth how 

M^th every odious droomstance to dress. 

Which heaviest mischief might on J^eph throw ; 
And Potifkar' s return she covets more 
Than for his absence, she had long'd before. 

When home he came, she met him with this Lye^ 
And threw the garment to him for her proo£ 
He to(A no sober time the cause to try. 
Bat judg'd that Argument more than enough. 
Joseph's to Prison sent ; a place less warm 
To him, bat sweeter than his Lad/s arm. 



241. 
Yet long he lay not loaded with his chains. 
But ev'n the Jaylor^s heart the Pris'ner takes : 
Such potent sweetness still in Virtue reigns. 
That her Commanders She her Subjects makes. 
Heav'n would not suffer other bonds to yoke 
Him, who through all Lusfs chains and charms had 
broke. 

242. 

The Keeper now keeps nothing but his Name : 

llie keys at Josephs girdle hang, and he 

Is in tlUs doser Stewardship the same 

He was in Potiphat's firee Family ; 
Nay more than so, no Mistress bdng here 
To make his Jayl as bad's his freedom there. 

243. 
At length the guerdon of his worth drew near, 
And Dreamst th' occasions of his low estate, 
Assist him now in climbing Glory's sphere. 
The great Events ripe uncontrollM Fate 
Was into Egypt suddenly to bring. 
Are in a mystic Vision shew'd the King. 

244. 
Their curious brains the old Magicians beat 
About the Riddle, but were all too weak 
To pierce that mighty doud wherein the great 
Secret inshrinM lay : The King must seek 

Some wiser head ; and who d'y' thmk was he? 

Joseph alone his Oracle could be. 

245. 

Joseph, whose wisdom's strangely-searching beams 

Rose in the daxlM Court's horizon, by 

Qearing the Butler's and the Baker's Dreams 

From mists of most profound obscurity : 
Joseph, who now irom Prison's freed, that He 
May set the hamper'd thought of Pharaoh free. 

246. 
And soon he taught Him what the Kine did mean 
Heaven shew'd hun feeding upon Nilus's shore : 
Why seven were wondrous Fat^ and seven as Lean ; 
Which did portend the Famin, which the store ; 
What sign grew in both kinds of Com ; What Cares 
Were requisite against the following Years. 

247. 

Such full Conviction seis'd th' astonish'd Kiug, 

As left no entrance for the least Demurr : 

So plain, so consonant was every thing. 

That as on Heavn's sole Privy-Counseller 
He looks on Joseph/ and thenceforth detests 
The dull-ey'd Magic of his cheating Priests. 

248. 
First thanks to Heav'n, he cries, then thanks to thee 
In whom its spirit so cleariy I descry. 



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3S 



PSYCHE: OR LOVETS MYSTERY. 



CANTO I. 



And who can better mj assistant ht 

Than HioUp who hold'st all Wisdom's Monarchy? 

The Throne and Sceptre shall continue mine ; 

AH Sgj^t else, and justly, shall be thine. 

249. 
Which said ; his royal Ring, his love to seal. 
On yos^'s hand he puts, and him invests 
With purest Linen : on his neck, which steel 
Had lately gall'd. a golden chain he casts ; 
And then to him his second Chariot gave. 
Who latdy into Bgjf^ tnidg'd a Slave. 

350. 
What he had been to PoHfhar before, 
What to the Jaylor; now he's to the King: 
The soverein Steward and Vicegovemor 
Of his whole Realm. And here true Htav'n did bring 



About full proof to justify his Dream, 

Whilst both his Sire and Breikrem bow'd to Him. 

251. 
Thus CkasHty'spmre King his Champion sees 
Amply repaid ; who having got Command 
Of his own Flesh and Blood, can rale with ease 
A Kingdom*! reins. Mark wdl and understand. 

Dear Psyche, this Narration's design. 

The Case which here was His, may once be Thine. 

252. 
So spake the blessM Guardian; and then 
His own on Psyche's lips dos'd with a Kiss, 
She strait her reverent thanks retura'd him in 
Low-bowM Modesty : and, warn'd by his. 
And by Tim^s Item, kindly took the hint. 
And to her wonted task of Prayers went 



NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Page II, The Asgumbnt, L 3, ' Phylax: See GIos- 
sarial Index, s.v., and so throughout with 
significant and personifying Names. It is 
deiemed better to ei^lain there once for all 
than to ¥feaiy and irritate bv repetition in 
each place, or reference bacK and back to 
prior occurrences : st 3, 1. 3, * Erythraean 
Tide ' » the Red Sea : st 4, L 3, ' Bay*— 
by stress of rhyme with ' may : more ac- 
curately 'bays in the plunu, which was 
the garland-crown bestowed as a prise for 
victory or ezcellenoe. It was woven of 
sprays of laurel : Greek ^6jUm s a branch 
of the palm tree : Spanish baya = a berry, 
fruit of the laurel. 

., la, st 15, ' imbost* ss embossed, or in relievo or 
raised woric. 

.. 13* st 30, L a, *belhing' s belching : st 37, 1. 6, 
* AfUr God^s heart ' = King David : i 
Samuel xiii. x^: st 38, 1. i, 'PhUauty'st 
^iXovria, self-love. 
' ,, 14, st 45. 1. 3, *designid* — designated or ap- 
pointed : st 49, 1. 5, ' j^mce ' ss nice, 
daintily masked. 



15, St. 55, L K, 'Apes' ss imitators. 
10, st 68, i. o, * hvach ' = 



open— «n adaptation of 
I. X, *pend* = close up 



the word : st. 
or coop or 

„ 17, st 85, 1 3, *By-ilotas' st bastards. Thomas 
Wright (after HalliweU), s.v., refers to 
Barnefidd's 'Affectionate Shepheard' by 
mistake for his ' HeUens Rape ' for an ex- 
ample of this word, thus :— 

' lo Mich a Ladies him, at such a slipperie by-Mow, 
That in a world so wide, could not be found such a wilie 
Lad* 

But 'at' seems to show such is not the 
meaning there. See Roxburgh Club edn. 
of the Complete Poems of Richard Barn- 
field (1876), p. 57*. His other quotation is 
accurate, thus : — 



< Sitl Thoa tpeak'st not like a subject ; what's thy naneT 

PiL My name is Draco. 

Sal, Of the Athenian Dnco'st 

Pil. No, of die English Drakes, great Csptain Drake 
(That sail'd the world round) left in Spain a byMow, 
Of whom I come.' The SlighUdMmid, pi •7. 

See our Glossarial Index, s,v, for more : st. 
85, 1 |, * Hysteron Proteron's : ' tfrrepoif = 
later, following : opp. to vp&r€pO¥ = before 
others : st 87, 1. 5, *Jbnd* a foolish : st 
88, L 9, 'Adamantine' k made of ada- 
mant. See Glossarial Index, s,v., for ex- 
amples, earlier and later: st. 03, 1. 5, 
* gewgaw ' s a showy trifle \ ih,,\. 6,* too 
too: sibt Glossarial Index on this : st 95, 
L 5, 'trimm'd* s adorned : st. 96, 1. 6, 
' longbearded Stars '=3 comets : st 97, 1. x, 
' towr^d ' ss ascended— a hawkug term. 
Page x8, st xoo, L 6, * traludd ' = translucent or trans- 
parent : st xoi, L 5, 'Schedule' s Latin 
schedula, from scheda, a sheet or leaf of 
paper, i,e. a small scroll written on : st 
xoa. L X, ' complemental* s= compUment- 
paying. 

„ 19, st X15, 1. I, 'Jbnd* as foolish, /rtquenier: st 
X19, L 6, ' Cygnet ' s young swan. 

„ 90, St. 139, L 4, *rour ss roll : st 139. L x, 'pre- 
vented' ss come before, antiapated. 

„ 9X, st 144, 1 5, ' bom ' sc borne. 

„ 93, st 160, 1. X, ' hen'd' = knew not 

,, 93, St. 176, L X, ' hants' s haunu : st. 188, L 3, 
* vfV* = compete. See Glossarial Index, 
J. v., for illustrations. 

,, 94, st 196, L I, 'elo^ums' =s eulogiums : st 90a, 
L 6, ' imhexil' •= embeszle. 

„ 95, st 908, L 3, 'fondness' = foolishness. 

„ 97, st 943, L 9, * oeccuiofu ' = happenings. See 
Glossarial Index, s,v,, for more. 

., 98, St. 959, 1. K, * Item ' as particular. See Glos- 
sarial Indexi s»v,, for more. — G. 



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CANTO II. 
Luft Conquered. 



THE ARGUMENT. 

Zju/, who in ambush lay, the Onset givts 
To careless Psyche, as she gads abroad: 
Chans the overpowered Maid relieves : 
Fhylax unmashs the Fiend, Her penitent Jtood 
Psyche pours out, and is conducted by 
A Vision to the Court ^Chastity. 



N" 



f O foolish Tinder eyer strove to catch 

In its soft amorous arms the treacherous spark, 
And with such zealous rashness joy'd to hatch 
Its own destruction ; as fond Man doth marlc 
And treasure up ih<09it/air-fi^d Counsels, which 
With &tal charms his heedless heart bewitch. 

2. 

No wretcfaM Adder ever soder'd up 

His wiliiil ear with trustier cement ; than ^ 

With retchless obstinacy He doth stop 

His Memories unhappy portals, when 

Wholsom Advice with sweetness wooes it, and 
Long knocking for admission doth stand. 



In sdf-destroyitag Vanity so much 

Is He engag'd, that He no leisure hath 

To listen after Bliss ; but still of such 

Importance counts his Nothing, that 'tis death 
To harbor Life, and entertain those dear 
Counsels, wfakh more than their own chaiges bear. 



Or if strong Importunity (whereby 

The tenderest Drops are taught to pierce the Flint,) 

His sullen stifihess constantly doth ply. 

Perhaps he yieldeth to the dainty dint 
Of such imwearied Gentleness ; which yet 
Her conquest more by stealth than force doth get 

5. 

But though at length a wicket ope he sets, 
His slighted Quest in some out-room he lays : 
But when vain Fancy, or Seduction beats 
Summons upon his gates, He strait displays 
Theb way, and lets them quite thrust out of door 
The former Stranger, scarcely in before. 



For as the honey of Heav*n's kivdy hives, 
The Summer Clouds, snugging in laps of Flowers, 
That correspondent dwelling quickly leaves 
To churlish drops of less-deserving showers, 
Or rankling mildew, which such venome sheds 
As soon deflowereth all those Virgin beds : 



So far'd it now with Psyche's careless breasts. 
On which more dainties drop'd from Phylax tongue 
Than e'r on Hybla made their verdent nest 
Abroad she will, and please her self among 
The fields' wide sweets, forgetting that some wind 
Might steal upon, and blast her honied mind. 

Abroad she wOl, because she understands 
Not truly what 'wiBtobe abroad: 
And knows as Uttle what safe bliss commends 
Her private home : that Robbers haunt the road 
She never dreams ; or that the broader way 
Gives Danger room more ambushes to lay. 



Tlie sportful Twisu ofheav'n now 'gan to reign. 

And hrought-a season fitting for their play ; 

Thick did they scatter upon every Plain 

A flow'ry verdure, and dishevel May 
Round TeUus's springing (ace, who thus beguiles 
Her "^^nter's sadness with this Mouth of smiles, 

10. 
And why, said Psyche, may not I comply 
With Heav'n and Earth, now both are of a mind 7 
Yet Guilfs fore-runner doubtful Jealousy 
AdvisM her this wild design to blind ; 
And by sly Stealth to snatch those Joys for which 
Though earnest, yet still fearful was her itch. 

II. 

She therefore plotted to slip out alone : 
But sage Syneidesis, her trusty maid, 
Hunted out every step where she had gone ; 
And Charts, an old friend of her's, afraid 

What might bedde the Wanderer, foUow'd too, 

Yet in her company forbore to go. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



CANTO II. 



12. 
Nor could her foolish craft escape the eye 
Of warye Pkylax : never-deeping he 
Disoover'd with what politic vanity 
Her own betrayer she contriv'd to be : 

And all the way she went, with heavy sighs 

Ponder'd the dangers of her jollities. 

13. 

As pleasure's paths she in the fields did trace, 
It joy'd her dreaming heart the lambs to see 
Skipping in harmless sport from place to place : 
And who would be so sad and dull, said she. 
To sneak at home, when thus abroad we may 
Behold how sweetly Innocence doth play i 

14. 

No smiling flower could meet her as she went. 
But gathering it. she with a kiss would pay 
The courteous price of that delicious scent 
With which so kindly it perfum'd her way : 
And still cries out, How poor a place is home. 
Which for such free full Joys affords no room? 

IS. 
Thus loosly tripping, she was lost at last 
Through pathless paths, into a pleasant Grove ; 
The gentle winds through crowds of trees made haste, 
And in her lace a gale of odours drove : 

Needs would she venture, and see whether this 

Were not the Copy of old Paradise, 

16. 
The courtly boughs laden with generous spice, 
Stoop'd to salute her as she forward went ; 
And woo'd her to accept the sacrifice 
Of any fi:uit which might her choice content : 
The dangling Apples smil'd, and seem'd to say. 
Madam, behold we meet you half the way. 

17. 

But all their cheeks with such thick charms were set 

That every one did her amasement win : 

When one prevail'd, his neighbor straight would get 

The victory, but yield it back again. 
About looks she, yet knows not which to choose. 
And in those sweets her sweeter self doth loose. 

18. 
When on the sudden, from a neighbor tree 
Her ears were captiv'd, as before her eyes : 
For m]rstic chains of purest harmony 
Insnar'd them by inchantment's soft surprise ; 
Whilst a wing'd Quke through their new-tunM throats 
Pour'd out a dduge of their daintiest Notes. 

19. 
Divided thus with pleasures, needs she wiU 
Seek where her fond self she may recollect : 



Close by she stealing spies a silver Rill, 
Whose gorgeous bank with golden flowers was deckt. 
There pitching down, once more adieu, said she. 
Dull home, whidi no such feast oouldst qjwead for me. 

2a 

Symidais, her Mistress being set. 

Couch'd down behind her, and fell fast asleep. 

Old CMaris kept aloof, resolv'd to let 

The venturous Maid some smart experience reap 
Of her rash confidence, who needs would stray 
Like some vain child, so frur from home to play. 

21. 

She play'd indeed, and little thought that she 
Was playing all her happiness away : 
She play'd, and knew not what catastrophe 
Would sour the fickle sweetness of her play ; 
But wholly yidding to the fair-fac'd Treason, 
Into her Sense she mdted all her Reason. 

22. 

When lo, into the Grove a monstrous Boar 
Loud roaring out his ugly thunder came, 
And brought more Terror thither, than before 
Appear'd E>elight. Never did whiter foam 
Smoke on the Ocean's stormy faot, than now 
This hideous Beast about his own 4ki throw. 

23. 

As are the Comets, fierce with omfaious Ugfat, 
Such were his eyes, compos'd of fire and blood : 
His dismal tusks, the engines of his spii^t 
Held forth their greedy points : a hedge of dread 
Star'd on his back, with bristles stern and high. 
Whose sharpness did all wrath of tbons defy. 

At this dire spectacle thdr troubled heada 
The trees did shake, and all their leaves did quiver : 
The fearfull flowers fell down upon their beds. 
Closing their fainting eyes : the frighted River 
Doubled his course, and headlong through dismay 
Sought firom his channel how to run away. 

25. 

Strait startled out of her unfortunate pleasure 

PtycJki flies too upon the wings of fear ; 

Whose steps the hungry Beast as fost did measure. 

And swallow'd up the way to tear down Her : 
His roars, though high, her shriller 3hreeks tiansoend. 
Which heav'n and earth and her own throat did rend. 

26. 

Pkilax, her soul's most watchfull firiend, was near. 

Flying from tree to tree still as she ran : 

But was by heav'n forbidden to appear. 

And rescue Her who needs would be undcme : 
He wisely was forbidden, t|ll her JoUy 
Progress, had frOly pay'd her for her folly. 



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CANTO II. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVERS MYSTERY. 



31 



27. 
Throngh thousand snarIM thickets posting, she 
Darted her self, regardless of her way : 
No peevish bushes' daws, though busily 
They snatch'd and scratdTd her, oould command her 
stay: 
Become all speed, she found not now that deep 
The Vallies were, or that the Hills were steep. 

38. 
But long flight at the last shortning her breath, 
Which twizt her trembling lips lay stnigling, she 
Crys out. dear PMlax, from these jaws of death 
The Monster opes so wide, deliver me I 

Where is thy God and mine 1 O can, can my 

Almighty Lover love to see me dye I 

29. 

Hear belpkss Dread and fainting sunk her down. 

Unto the ready Beast an easy prey : 

Whose hasty tusk straight through her dainty gown 

Unto her softer body tore its way. 
When lo, a sudden spear flew through his neck 
And frighted on the ground retum'd him back. 

30. 

A lusty Gallant, Aphrodisius Knight, 

Who in that hicky instant thither came, 

Dffected it ; and strait with equal might 

Drew out his glittering blade ; whose dreadful flame 
A forehand strook the daxlM Monster dead. 
Whose keener edge snatch'd o£f his ravenous head. 

31. 

This done, he gently takes the Virgin up ; 

Then with a courtly kiss he gives her joy. 

Scarce oould her hopes grow bold enough to ope 

Her eyes, seal'd dose with desperate dismay : 
But when she view'd the slav^ter'd Boar, and Him 
As sweet and fidr, as that was foul and grim, 

32. 
I see there are more Pkylaj^stYoiXL one. 
Cries she : This life, dear Sir, whioh heretofore 
Was mine, your love hath now made your's alone : 
For hdpless I had left it to that Boar, 

And lay'd me down to meaisure out my grave ; 

Whence you to me this Resurrection gave. 

33^ 
Yet trust me Shr, a life you have not giv'n 
To one who can forget by whom she lives : 
Whether you come from Earth, or rather Heav*n, 
(For seldom Earth such strange salvation gives,) 
Let my Soul big with just thanks, learn, and see 
Whether her debt divine or humane be. 

34. 
The debt you mean, was mme, rcply'd the Knight 
You nothing owe bat cotuteous acceptation : 



In Ladies' rescues who forbears to fight, 
Forfeits all Knighthood's noble obligation. 

Yet by a great and dearer bond than this 

Was I oblig'd your danger to repress. 

35. 

But Madam, first be pleasM to repose 
Your lost-found self : a little distance hence 
(For well I imow this place,) a Current flows 
Between two flowry Banks : there wjU I rinse 
My bloody hands ; there shall you sit and hear 
A wond'rous story, and due to your ear. 

36. 

The place was where she wantoniz'd but now : 
Thither they go ; and thither Phylax flies, 
PerchiDg unseen upon a ndghbour bough. 
The Gallant wash'd his hands ; pnd she her tyca, 
But in her own soft tears of joy, to think 
How she had come from Death's to that Brook's brink. 

37. 

The various pleasures of the Grove, no more 

Monopolize her wond'ring eyes ; for she 

In Apkrodisius reads &r nobler store 

Of love-conmianding miracles : and He 
As much admiring his own prosp'roqs art, 
Afordiand acta his triumph in his heart. 

38. 

Then on the flow'ry couch by Her he sits. 

And ushers in his talk with cunning sighs ; 

His cheathig cheeks with lying tears he wets, 

Three times he strikes his breast, three times his eyes 
He casts up towards Heav'n, three times he smiles 
And sighs again, and her as oft beguilesL 

39. 
At length, I crave, said he, your pardon till 
You know my case ; then blame me if you can : 
And since my self my sdf to you must tell. 
Bate me the Laws of that wh^ aqiyamjRh moa 

Call modesty ; my story must be high ; 

High Truth's more modest than the humblest Lie. 

4<X 

Know Lady then, I am a Man who by 

My birth as deep Sngag'd to fortune stand, 

As any he that lives, if Majesty 

Crown not his head, and Sceptre gild his band. 
My Stock's the noblest in Uiis Land but one. 
Nor bears it any Brandi but Me alone. 

4L 
This made my tender Lord and Father spare 
No noble cost which might his Son adorn : 
From leamM Athens Tutors huM were 
Whom first the wings of Fame had hither bom 

They Atkens left, but brought with them to me 

From thence the truer University. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY, 



CANTO 11. 



42. 

Thus did the public Wit of Gruct become 

A member of om* private family. 

And I with all the worid convers'd at home ; 

Yea in their dialects too, as &st as my 
Young breath I could transform : nor was it long 
Ere many sate upon my single Tongue. 

43. 

For never in the long and tedious tnct 

Of slavish Grawumarwasl made to plod ; 

No tyranny of Rules my patience rackt ; 

I serv'd no prentiaehood to any Rod ; 
Alt hi the freedom of the Practic way 
LMmd to go i^t, ev'n when I went astray. 

44- 

This with a Pftss snppIyM me by which 
l^thout distuifaanoe I might travel through 
All Learning's Provinoes, and in her rich 
CommodiUes, a skilful Tkader grow. 
Their gains be doubtfiil. who for all their 
Are forc'd to traffique by Interpreter!. 

45- 
A dear survey of those darii stepa I took 
By which Philosophers have Naiurt trac'd : 
Then MtUhtmoHcs were my buisy book ; 
A thousand Lines I plaoM and displac'd : 
To heav'n upon the Artist's Stqfl went. 
And studied round about the Fiimament. 

46. 
Those mighty Pow'rs which so seourdy dwdl 
On th' open forehead of the brittlest (Masses, 
Melting the boldness of the thickest Steel 
Whilst through the furnace of thin light it 
^^th all those Optic Miracles I leam'd 
Which scorn by Eagles eyes to be disoemU 

47. 

A/if/«^'/ most mystic soul I hunted through 
All her sweet Orb, and with unwearied pahss 
Measur'd long nights and days, in hopes to know 
What reason married Concording Strains. 
What divorc'd snarling Discords^ but no knot 
E'r mock'd my fruitless industry like that 

48. 
With proud delight, and with no less success 
I tun'd my heart to those soul>conquring Charms 
Which flourish in smooth Numbers: how to dress 
In fierce aray War's thundering Alarms *, 
How to belaoe and fringe soft Love, I knew. 
For all my Ink was now CastaHam dew. 

49. 

The treasures of Antiquity, lap'd up 
In old historic leaves I ransackid : 



How Kingdoms spnmg, and how they made their stop. 
I well observ'd ; with what brave Spirits did. 

How they their honors managM, and what 

The beams of their nobility did blot 

SO. 
But with my Soul's deUght no Study e'r 
Concenterd so. as that which led me through 
The Pftradise of sacred Scripture, where 
All Threes of Knowledge unforbidden grow. 

The fond Worid mock'd me, as too grave and sad ; 

But ne'r would I for fiuhion sake be mad. 

5'. 

My Recreations were such as few 

Durst make theh* worit, so serious was my Play : 

Tir'd with my bookish study, fi-esh I flew 

To practise Martial Feats : thus ev'ry day 
In both her brave Professions I strove 
To follow Pallas, whom I most did love. 

52. 

Oft have I fiu:'d stem War, and seen the Field 
With streanUng Ensign's goodly terror spred ; 
Where how much more I lov'd to die, th|in yield. 
Upon my brest good witness you may read ; 

Ev'tt these seven Wounds, whose mouths oooe open'd 
wide. 

In mine own blood my virtue testi^ d. 

S3. 

Oft through the gloomy'st Woods alone I rode 
To find, some wild Antagonist, some Bear, 
Some Boar, some Lion, the aocustom'd food 
Wherewith I diet this my hungry spear : 

You well may gather by the certam blow 

I gave yon Beast, I am no Learner now. 

54. 
Thirty such bart>'rous heads as that of his 
With noble horror trim our stately Hall : 
Whidi furniture was purcfaasM by this 
Sole hand of mine : to glorify a Wall 

With tapestry fieats, is womanish, ay I, 

Give me a Suit of real Chevaby. 

55. 

And wiU yon thfaik Pride speaks the wonl . if here 
I teU you Fame's Triuip breath'd my History? 
Through Court, through City, Country, ev'ry where 
Reporu of Aphrodisius*s worth did fly : 

No highstrain'd Pftrallel was made but thus, 

As good, or brave, as Aphrodisins, 

56. 
Through any rural Village did I ride? 
With gaping eyes and mouths the swains beset me : 
The Mothers, with their Children by their side, 
Pointed and talk'd strange things : The Pedant at me 



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CANTO 11. 



PSYCHE; OR LOVERS MYSTERY. 



33 



Diflduu^d. part through his lips, part through his 

nose 
Some weUmeant volley of ill verse or Prose. 

57. 
But when I movkl in the Court's high sphere ; 
Stars of the noblest magnitude, although 
They twinckled at my fairer presence, ne'r 
Did an oblique malignant aspect throw 

Upon my modon : Honor seem'd in me 

To have foigot her own iragiiity. 

58. 
So sovereign were my Beams, that fewer eyes 
Paid homage to the lung's, than unto Mine : 
Devoutly did the Ladies sacrifice 
Their Looks, and sighs, and Languors at my shrine ; 

Oft has the Queen gone out alone, whilst they 

Focgot to follow her if I did stay. 

59. 
How many a pretty Embassy have I 
Recdv'd from them, which put me to my wit 
How not to understand I but by and by 
Some Comment would come smiling after it ; 
Which yet with modest art endeavor'd how 
Not to profess what most it strove to show. 

6a 

Bat though thus oft and delicately haunted 

By these sweei/nrus; still with resolute heed 

Some handsome way or other I invented 

How not to be at leisure : for indeed, 
I other business had which fill'd my head, 
Books call'd me up, and Books put me to bed. 

6i. 

This my IMseaae thus known, a Lady sped 

To me a Namd/kJ of Concgit, doath'd in 

So quaint a Cover, as forc'd me to read 

That iwwrit lesson e'r I could begin 
To ope the Book ; and what did that contain, 
But A Diseours€ to prom all LMoming vain f 

62. 

Bold TitU, then said I, if thou can'st make 

Thy Promise good, by Learning thou must do it. 

With that I threw't aside ; yet could not slake 

My curious itch to look again into it. 
I look'd and read, and saw how finely Wit 
Had whipp'd it self ; and then grew friends with it. 

63. 

Then snmmon'd by Civility I went 

To court the Giver, and my thanks repay. 

Look not, said I, for polish'd complement, 

Whose art, sweet Madam, rather would gainsay. 
Than thank you for your Book : Since Learning's vain, 
My wisest thanks must simple be and phin. 

46 



64. 

Between a blush and smile, she welcome gave 
To her new Convert. But dear Sir, said she, 
I sent another Book, in which you have 
More of my mind than in those leaves can be 1 

A Book, writ by a Dart shot bam above. 

In rubric lines and characters of love. 

65. 
Yet think not that a gift : No ; 'twas the Debt 
Which I did to an Stoutness pay in you. 
How could I chuse 7 for had I more than that, 
They would be more than due : but having now 

But only one poor heart, your praise must be 

Not to disdain my helpless poverty. 

66. 

I would not for a thousand worlds again 
Receive it back : with how Divine a nest, 
If your all-lovely bosome shall but deign 
To entertain it, will it there be blest 1 

If thence you cast it, take't who will for me ! 

I ne'r shall love what hated is by Thee. 

67. 
Yet give me leave to ask, what Lady 'tis 
Thou wilt exalt to sit Queen in thy heart : 
Whether her fiwe more graceful be than this, 
Which blusbeth here in pleading its own part : 
Whether her Lineage or Estate afford 
More aiguments then mine to win my Lord. 

68. 

If not ; then by these loyal tears I offer 
At thy lair feet, this venturous Truth forgive : 
7>y Love is duo to mo. Can just Heaven suffer 
The best of Men should only live, to live? 

No ; Thou an Off-spring ow'st the world, which may 

With Heroes ftunish it another day. 

69. 

And let it be no bar against my Bliss, 

That I turn Wooer, and change parts with thee : 

Poor I, indeed, but passive am in this. 

For thou although most chaste, hast ravish'd me ; 

And all that I have said. If rightly spell'd. 

Will signify no more but that /yoild. 

70. 

O may all Equity fort>id, that Thou 

Should'st count it boldness in me to Submit: 

To infinite Necessity allow 

What Thou thy self imposest : Never let 
Tlie jreilding innocent Thider suffer blame 
For taking fire, when she's beset with flame. 

71. 
As when the Pris'ner at the bar has done 
His tongue's last Plea ; he plantt hiB cmvii^ Eye 

£ 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CAMTOIL 



Upon the Judge, and from his mouth alone 
In hopes and fears expecU his destiny : 

So look'd the Lady, with prepartd eyes 

To see her joys, or weep her obsequies. 

Full loth was I to speak, but lother by 
Inhuman Lingring silence to tonnent 
Her most suspended soul, and make her die 
Without her sentence. Many a sigh I sent 
Before to tell how painful was the birth 
Of that sad Answer, which I thus broiight forth : 

73. 

How wretched is his Bliss, whose single heart. 

Whilst Diverse Ladies of choice worth attend 

With loyal passion. He must either part. 

And so destroy his own ; or empty send 
Them all away but one ; and thus be lain 
By many a Loss to make one piteous Gain 1 

74- 
Had I as many bosoms as I owe 
To such sweet Creditors as Thou ; with speed 
I all my scores wou'd pay : But first I vow. 
To thee, dear Lady, in whose Worth I read 
Such rich Attraction, that were I to choose 
My heav'n, for thee I would all other loose. 

75. 

But \oDg ago my Choice was made, and I 
AffiancM : Yet to what sacred she. 
Is so divine a Secret, that no Key 
Could from my bosom pick that Mystery. 

My reverend Mother^s tears and kisses sought. 

Bat never yet prevailed to wooe it out. 

76. 
Yet thy bnaat*a cabinel I howir so. 
That I dare trust this Jewd there: bat see 
Thou keep'st it safe and cksse, as thou wouldst do 
My blood and soul, things not so dear to me. 
And give me leave to cast this charm about, 
For fear thou lett'st it and my life sUp out. 

77. 

So may thy heart-strings hold thy heart, as thou 

This more than heart of mine : to may tbgr Imte 

Be true to thee, and to thy wishes bow. 

As to my Sicrti thou shalt trusty prove : 
So may thine Angti hug thy soul, as in 
Thy fidthCul taveast thou sImU this tUi^ inshriae. 

78. 

A thing which mine own Guardian ^sjfv/ did 
Acquaint and bless me with. When throQ^ mine eyes 
Xjov€ first began his amorous beams to shed, 
And with his soft Desires my heart surprise. 
This wingM IHend of mine look'd thnwgb a frown. 
And told me, my own heart was not my own. 



79. 
Tt b, said he, thy privilege, (and see 
Thou thank Niav*n for it,) not to ran and spend 
Thy youth on wantonesse's mystery : 
Let others study how to walk, to bend. 

To smile, to look in print, and then* ^mioe lip 

With dainty lies and softer kisses tip. 

8a 
l^th Taylors Ibr their best aeoompUshmeBt 
Let Vanitie's gay Sons run on the score : 
Idolatrous Poetry kt them invent. 
And hito SommOs change their PsaiUr: more 
hfanly and generous Arts decreed are 
To exerdae thy parts and crown thy care. 

81. 
Court thoo thy Books, and gala sndi tnaanre there 
As may inhanoe thy wofth, and thee oomplele 
For a fit match for her whom Heav'ns prepare 
To be thy Spouse : whose ftoe when thou shah meet, 

The reading on that fisir-^writ Book of love 

For an thy studies, ample Pay will ] 



82. 

But dream not that the Coon's all gaody aosne 

^ffSL e'r present her to thy kmging eye : 

No public glaring Gem is she. but in 

Abstrusest shades of vixtuous modesty 
Delights to gUflHner. Thus from common Day 
To private Night slq> all the Start amay. 

83. 
To yon dark Gram a pflgrim thou mun go 
Each mom, to find thy Saint : and with thy swocd 
Make her thine own I¥ey of a monster's : so 
Shall she salute thee with no other word 
But plain conlessfon that thine is hor ttfe : 
Thus Heav'n contrives that thou shalt win thy wife. 



These are my fortunes. Madam, yet unknown 
Ev'n by the iweeteit half unto my self : 
And sure your hand would help to thrust me down 
DeservM vengeance's profoundest gulf. 
Should wantoness invite me to despise 
A blessing Ugher than my Pride duzit rise. 

85. 
The former scarlet of the Lady's foce 
This answer into piteous paleness tom'd : 
Her Suit's strong flame to ashes frinted was ; 
And She although r^ected, yet not soom'd, 
Wander'd about her thoughts, and all agast 
Found her sad sdf in musing silence lost 

86. 
Yet hi^py she, at length she cries, whoa'r 
She be that must hug happiness in yon. 



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CANTO 11. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



35 



And yet permit mine eye <»e other tear : 

Tis not of envy ; No : Dear Sir, adieu. 
It pitied me to see this gentle foahion 
Of her sisoere bat unsiiooessfiil Passion. 

87. 
We parting thus, I hasted to this Grove, 
Amongst whose spioey trees I imew would grow 
My sweeter hopes. But Htav'n it seems would prove 
The valour of my padence, and throw 
Procrastinations in my way, that I 
Might earn my bliss hy hardy Constancy. 



How often came I, and with bended knee 

On every flow'ry cushion of the Grove 

Implor'd the speed of my Mieity I 

How oft to this sweet Temple has great Zmv 
Reoeiv'd my heart an offering all on fire, 
Kindled, and fed. and blown by strong Desire I 

89. 

How often with this Brook have my poor eyes 
Sadly contended which should Hastest flow ! 
How often has the tempest of my sighs 
Ontstorm'd the loudest Winds that blustred through 
These groaning Trees i How often has my cry 
Tanght gentle Bcho mournful sympathy I 

At length my groans were heard ; and this dear Day 
In that sad^^widcom moment sent me Utfaer, 
Which shew'd me that my long-expected joy 
Was now liillgrown and ready ripe to gather. 
Which strait had I not pluck*d, the monster had 
Of an iu sweetness his foul booty made. 

9«. 

First tlwn to Hsgv'n my ftihUte tiuinks I pay ; 

And next to thee, my noble Omardiam, who 

Before my hopes no forgfed bolt didst lay : 

Each smallest circumstance agreeth so, 
Hial this the Lady is» the <mfy skt 
Design'd by Nmv'n to crown my joys and me. 

92. 
An blessfaigs on thy head, my Psyclu: that. 
That. I am certain is thy precious name. 
That Angtl told me it, whose counsels put 
Me on this blest adventure, when I came 

To save thy life both for thy self and nw. 

And make of thine n^ joint felicity. 

93. 

I with DO pcying quesdons stand to sift 

Thy lineage, education, or estate : 

To follow not examin Heaven* s, my drift ; 

Nor must my Policy my Faith abate. 
Onol I am secure; aU things cannot 
Bat suit aright when HeMfn do's lay the ploL 



94. 
Here then, my heart I give thee, and I seal 
The Deed on thy fair lips : may curses rain 
Thick on my head. If ever I repeal 
This sacred Act, or chaUenge bock again 
That Gift of mine, whose £Eiult is only this. 
Of thy Desert it too unworthy is, 

95. 

So spake the gloriotis Impostor; and 
Granting commission by a graceful kiss 
To his own snowy yet hist-buming hand, 
Sent it to treat with Psyche^ and to press 
With feeling eloquence that Project He 
Hop'd would conclude in tactile villany. 



But as the Seaman by fierce tempests thrown 
Into the seeming depth of roaring Death, 
If he by sudden fortune bade be blown 
Into the gentle harbor ; wondereth 
At his strange safety, and scarce trusts his eyes, 
Long donbtmg whether yet he lives or dyes : 

97. 
So Psyche snatch'd from Danger's desperate jaws 
Into the arms of this illustrious Lover; 
Her self into Doubt's misty mates throws. 
And in suspensive thoughts a while doth hover. 
Deceive me not, said she, a frighted maid. 
Too poor, great Sir, by you to be betray'd. 

98. 

If stin I live ; and aU this be no Dream, 
(For sure your story's such a heavenly thing. 
That simple I alas unworthy am 
To be conoemd in it,) be pleas'd to bring 
Some Proofs which my faith's daxled eye nay 
And it for your bright mirodes prepare 

99. 
Then be the first Proof. Afrodisims cries. 
This diamond Ring; a glass where thou maist see 
The sparkling copy of thine own bright eyes : 
The next, this Jewel; what thou art to me 
Let that attest ; yet pardon me that I 
Gave it that/fWMMx Noma, now Thmi art hy, 

IQO. 
The third, that delicate Embrace shaU be 
For which all Loves are kindled : that which wiU 
Most soUd sweet assurance seal to Thee ; 
And my great Guardian's prophesy fulfil. 
Come, I can give thee leave to bhish ; a Maid 
Of what she most kves, must ii most afiraid, 

lOI. 
Were not our case divisu, I weU coold slay. 
And by our Awrmmi Ceremonies noay : 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO II. 



But We did wed akcvt; and what can they 
Add to Heav'n's Rites? Onol 'tis sin to tany. 

Shall Matrimony's migkiy Autk^ not 

Be thought sufficient to tie the Knot 1 

102. 
When God to Adam brought his Bvi (as thee 
He did to me») bold had her niceness been. 
If to pronounce her Maidi anthentic, she 
Had lingered till some Priest might intenrene. 
Nor could my Angtl, if in this I err, 
Forbear to tell me so. Come then my Dear. 

103. 

Forgetful Psyche now inchanted quite 

^ these harmonious Wiles, set ope her breast 

To the kwae bmcies of miuUau Deligki: 

Forthwith a knot of unseen serpenu pcett 
Into her heart, and set it so on fire, 
That strait it flamid out with foul Dttir*, 

104. 
But Pt^lax seeing that outrageous flame, 
Wakes heavy^irow'd Symidtsis, and cries. 
Run, run, and help to save your dying Dawu; 
Look how her funeral flames aforehand rise. 

Up flies the maid^ and instantly thrust in 

B^een the Lovers and their ready sin. 

105. 
Back Psyche flung, and from her forehead shot 
Mix'd darts of guUty Wrath and wUd Disdain : 
Impudent Wretch, crys Apkrodisims^ what 
Has made thy life so vile, that thou shouldst strsin 
To forfeit it to me ? I prithee go, 
Dy somewhere else : I'd be no WwsMdsfoe, 

106. 

then, said she, foriiear to stain my pure 
And spotless Mistress, Fy, cries Psyche, fy, 

1 know her not : My L4>rd, can you endure 
I should such saucy servants own, as she? 

Is your Love's might less mighty than before ? 
Tear down this Sew, as you dispatcfa'd the Boar, 

107. 

He having steeping, in a box of Jett, 

A blacker Liquor, drawn from Lethe lake. 

Upon Syueidesis strait emptied it 

She rubb'd her eyes ; but found thdr strength too weak 
To grapple with that stupor which did creep 
On her dull'd brow, and down she fell asleep. 

108. 

As when the Child, ventring his feet to prove, 

Carelesly stumbles to some Predpioe ; 

His tender Nurse, wing'd both with fear and love. 

Makes on amain, with most intentive eyes 
Not on her way, but Him, who now she knows 
Is stepping into Death's wide open jaws : 



109. 

So watdilul Charts, who did distance keep 

Till her Assistance might more usefttl be, 

Now snatdi'd ^I^Mifj wheels ; and rousing from her sleep 

Symeidesis, be not dismay'd, said she. 
But try with me, whether Heav'n's bridle will 
Not curb your Lady's fierce career to hell. 

iia 

With that, as PheOus steals his subtil Ray 
Through virgin Crystal, so through Psyche's breast 
She darts her hand, and strives to snatch away 
The poisonous Brood from thefr usurpM Nest : 
Yet she flings back, and though herself forlorn. 
Casts on her frdrest Prietid foul firowning scorn. 

III. 

Thus when the Prince's gracious Proclamation 
Woo's the successful Rebel fivm his sin : 
Otttrsgeons he with sullen indignation 
Kicks the kind offer, and had rather in 

His pleasing Poison wallow, than confess 

That he, heav'n-frivor'd he, infected is. 

112. 

But Aphrodisims amasM now 

To see a Beauty whose dawn damp'd his eyes, 

A Beauty which on Psyche's face did throw 

Unlovely blackness, and monopolise 
AU heav'n within it self ; leooilM back. 
Some Counsel in his troubled brain to take. 

"3. 

Mean whUe, Syneidesis pour'd this loud Cry 

In Psyche's ear : Mistress, believe it now 

I am awoahe, and see your Misery : 

But 6 how foul a sleep possesseth you I 
Whilst monstrous Dreams and Appari t ions roul 
About your pleas'd because inciianted souL 

"4. 
Home, home, I pray: this Grove grows thick with Charms 
And will bewitch yon from your self, untill 
AU help grows tardy for your rampant Harms. 
Home soon will cure you, and your bosom fill 
With better flames than these, which only be 
Lighted to pltmge in Darkness you and me. 

115. 
Why linger We? see, see your Lover's gone : 
Perhaps to fetch more poison for your heart. 
And double on you your Destruction. 
This unexpected News made Psyche start : 

She tum'd her head, and saw 'twas so indeed ; 

Frighted by Charts, He away was fled. 

116. 
Yet alter hfan a heavy Sigh she sent. 
And would have more dispatch'd : but tuggM by 



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CANTO II. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



37 



SymeidtHst at last she homeward went. 

Her feet crept homeward, but her heart did fly 
Back to the grove ; which Charts, as she came 
Watching behind, met, and brought safely home. 

117. 
Bat ApkroHHut could not make such haste 
As to out ran the Angel's nimbler hand ; 
Half this cors'd Paradise he had not past. 
Bat Phyiax lighted down and bid hun stand. 
Stand^fxu/, said He ; thy punishment shall be 
Upon this scene of thine own Treachery. 

118. 

Fair hideous Sir, how has your wretched spigfat 
Tore from your Memory that deep-writ Blow 
By which mine and my heavenly Brethrens Might 
You and yoor fellow-feinds to hell did throw ? 

Did that &I1 bruise your heart so little, that 

It, and our ^ctoiy you have forgot ? 

119. 
But grant your spight (which as immortal is 
As your too-lasting Essence) triumphs o'r 
Yoor mightiest Pangs ; grant that your stubborness 
Made you delight to earn still more and more 
Extremities of Venganoe, and forget 
That bottomless already was your Pit 

12a 
Was*t not enough that in your burning Home 
Hot blasphemies you day by day did spit 
At Heaven and God: but you to Earth must come 
And all your trains of sly Delusions set 
To ravish his own SpouUt for whose dear sake 
I here his LUgtr lie the Match to malce? 

121. 
Pbor harmWam Psjfckt, how did she offend 1 
Did she incroach on your black Realms below? 
Did she e'er envy Hdl to to^jfnmd. 
Or strive to snatch Damnation from yon? 

Sore yoa have hijur'd Her, and Phylax too ; 

For die's my Charge, and you shall find it so. 

122. 

With that, He from his angry bosome drew 

A goklen Banner, in whose stately lap 

His Lor^s Almighty Nam* wide open flew, 

Of Hdl-appalling Majtsty made up : 
Tbe/n'iu/ no sooner Jestu there did read, 
But Qnflt poU'd down his eyes, and/»r his head. 

123. 
For as the Lightning darts on mortal Sight 
Dasling confttsion : so this brighter Nawu 
Flash'd in the Fury's &oe with killing fright 
Strait Phylax hal'd him pale with dread and shame 
To that inchanted Tree, whose ooasckius shade 
RooTd the green Stage where he the Lover play'd. 



124. 

So have I seen a tearing Cur drawn back 
Into the field where he had torn the Lambs, 
With guflty ears thrown flat upon his nedc ; 
With wofiil tayl sneaking between his hams ; 
With grinning chaps, whose whining dialect 
Spake both what he had done, and did expect. 

125. 

In vain he straggles : for the nearest bough 
Phylax with potent art twines round about 
It's own tough self, and teaches how to grow 
Into a Band more obstinate and stout 
Than his fell Prisoner : whom forthwith he ties 
Fast to the T^, and home to Psyche flies. 

126. 
Poor Psyche; who no sooner was come home. 
But Charts basts her to her Closet, where 
The holy furniture which trimm'd the room. 
Piously-sullied and worn Prayerbooks were. 
But she so strange an eye now casteth on them, 
As if her soul had never dwelt upon them. 

127. 
Her idle Thoughts were grown so squeamish, that 
Such serious Acquaintance she abhorr'd : 
Which surer out to keep, the wilfiil gate 
Of her unhappy heart within she barr'd : 

Nor could wise Charis, though all ways she try'd, 

Slip that untoward peevish Bar aside. 

12a. 

Yet by untir'd Love's diligence, at last 

She in that heart found out a private door ; 

Through which with blessM stealth her arm she thrust. 

And valiantly rent from thence, before 
Psyche's astonish'd eyes, that viperous fry 
Which her snarl'd soul hi unfelt bands did ty. 

129. 

And see, said she, the Token your brave Love 
Hath hung about his Darlings heart, is this : 
What kind of favors His were like to prove. 
By these fine Knots of Ribands 3rou may guess. 
If they thy Heavenfy Sinte/s gifts exoell. 
Then love they Hellish Aprodisins stilL 

13a 

The hissing Serpents scrambled on the floor. 

Which, and their shamM selves, theygnaw'd for spight. 

Psyche starts back afraid of what before 

She in her bosome hugg'd with blind delight ; 
Till potent Charis in disdain did throw 
Them whence they came, home to thefr hell below. 

131. 
Deeply agast, the Virgin ponder'd now 
The monstrous (rtVlcA«y7 with serious thought : 



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CANTO II. 



Horrid Amasement's torrents mshM tlux>ugh 
The breaches of her wounded soul : about 

All her breast's region, with wide-streamiqg dread 

Hie Banners of Confusion were spread. 

132. 

At length lall'n on her lamentable face, 

Her grief burst ope into this rueful cry : 

My shameful presence maketh any place 

Unworthy of thy noUe company : 
Henoe» hence, pure Charts; let me blush alone. 
Left fouler than those serpents which are gone. 

133. 
And you my rev'rend Books* your leaves shut up, 
Where my Damnation fix>wns in ev'ry line. 
When holy Eyes draw near, then freely ope. 
But O, you are too &ir and chast for mine : 
Mine, which let out my soul, and usher'd in 
All Hell, and, what is £v more hellish, .Sm. 

134. 
They nothing else can do but blurr you now 
With those perpetual streams of bounden brine 
Which to my wilful misery I owe. 

Eyes ; if ever jrour salt tide decline. 
May you &il too : so dead a life live I 
That if you drown me not, I needs must dye. 

135. 
Shine not on me fair Sun^ though thy brave Ray 
With safety can the foulest dunghils kiss : 

1 am a nastyer heap than those, and may 
Taint thy sweet Lustre by my filth's excess. 

Black NigfU will fear no spots ; O may she roul 
Up in her pitch my correspondent soul I 

136. 

What have vile I to do with noble Day 

Which shews Earth Heav'ns bright &ce> that &oe 
which! 

Wantonly scom'd, and cast my love away 

Upon impostur'd Lusts fool Mystery. 
Did e'r Heart make so mad a cfaoise as mine. 
To grow plain devilish rather than divine i 

137. 
My stem Revenge sore on this Heart shall smoke : 
A tempest will I raise of s^hs and groans 
To scourge that smooth-tongu'd Gale whose whispers 

woke 
That Wreck wlilch stole on me : wHh ruthless stones 
11 make this harder breast without appear 
As black as twas wltUn when Hell dwdt there. 

138. 
I with my bowlings will these ears torment 
Which Jo/d to drink the CheaUr's tickling charms ; 
These lips which lov'd his kisses, shaU be speot 
In oonrtiQgaaflty Dnt : 



Which hug'd his body, shall mine own 
Which now I hate more than I tovM his. 

139. 
His yemefs sparks Y\ quench and punish by 
A Coat of swarthy 'st and of harshest hair : 
For his rich Ring of smoothfisc'd Diamond, I 
By a course knotty rope will pay fall dear : 
(And here, in wrathful scorn, her foot upon 
Them both she set ; and thus went woiUng on :) 

14CX 
O all ye Grie/k which ever find your sting 
Deep in a guilty treach'rous bosom, hear 
Unhappy Psyche* s Pray'rs, and hither bring 
Your stoutest pow'rs ; my heart has room to spare 
For your full train : (Adieu all Unms,) I now 
Must only study to wooe Hate, and yon. 

141. 
Why was I bom I (may Darkness choke that Day 
Whose light faun'd, on my cursM birth :) or why 
When in the Boar's my Death his paw did lay 
Upon my throat, had I not leave to dye. 
Why did I scape that AionsUr, to be thrown 
To fouler ones, HelFs Treasam, and miiu own t 

143. 

Why play'd such flaming boavties in mine eye 
As might allure and shew to L»at\i% way 1 
Why smU'd my fisce with such mUd majesQr. 
As \xAfals€ Love, be bold me to betray 1 
. Why was not I deform'd, that sbelter'd in 
Secure select, I n^ght have soop'd this sin 1 

143. 
The universal World's Contemft could not 
Have wrong'd or wounded me so deep, nor thrown 
Upon my Beauties soch a fatal Bkjtt, 
As they upon themsdvcs and me have dmra. 
I had not now been heir to heaven's just aoon 
If in Eaithls eye my shape had beea forioni. 

144. 
But in my Bodie's graceful features, my 
Proud graceless folly needs would surfet so 
As to persuade me, my felicity 
Upon a rotten carnal Stock did gro^. 

To beastly solace thus with gay content 

My sdf did I an hok)caust present 

14$. 
O righteous Pnfteii^umrighieeta Pktswft; 
Whose total som's mode up of desperate kMS < 
How justly, when we tnule away our Tkeaanre, 
Requit'st thou us with lusty fretful dross I 
For all the Gains fond Wantonness farii«8 in, 
I^ove but a bank of Tengeonee ca the sin. 



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146b 
9tin skin I burn ; my fire but changM is ; 
And though mj Lust be oool'd, mj Guilt is hot. 
And bdks and boQs ; whilst wroth Syneidesis; 
Blovrs up its more inoeosM coals. O what 

Can help my sBoigmatic sorrows* who 

Thus on my self my Execution do ! 

147. 

Stings, oonsdous stiiq^s, have made my heart their Butt, 
Graving outrageous Memorandums there 
Of those snakes' tongues which Afkrodinus shot 
Into my heedless breast : strange tongues, which here 
Were tame and mild, but being hence withdrawn 
Most baib'rous in their successors are grown. 

148. 

Ay me 1 can Fity injure JnsHct so 

As to relieve me with a gradous glance? 

Durst any C^n/ca/ undertake a Wo€ 

Whidi helps itself to fester? What pretence 
Shan I devise, to seek abroad for aid. 
Who willin^y have been at home betia/d? 

149. 
As thus she lay lamenting on the floor, 
And strove to sink yet lower : Charis, who 
Had all this while but stepp'd behind the door, 
Comes clearly in, and crys, Ekeak of thy Woe, 
Dear Psycht; 'tis enough, thy hearty cry 
Hath piero'd already, and ^>peas'd the Sky. 

15a 

The Copies of those Tears thou there hast shed 

Upon the ground, reflected high, and are 

Already in Heaven's Casket bottlM ; 

Thy grief now smiles above, and maketb dear 
GotTs louring &ce : Look up and see how Day 
Right frkndly on thee shines, and bids thee jpy. 

15L 

With that, her blessM News to justify, 

She breatb'd into the wondring Virgin's breast 

Mysterious seeds of pure tranquillity ; 

Pledges of reooncOM Heav*n, a feast 
Of Paradise's most delicious cates, 
S{riritnal joys, and soul-«iliv'ning sweets. 

152. 

Her squalid connt'nanoe with such verdant pow'rs 
Of chearftdness, ne'r did the thirsty Ground 
Reform and beautify, when Summer Show'rs 
The deep pains of her gaspfaig Drought had drown'd ; 
As ovecjoyed PsycJU, now she feds 
Warm in her bosom dvc/s gcntk Gala. 

153. 
Galutmmhom dainty wings strange l90mmutM» ; 
An li^bumei of sncfa speedy opc n ttfon. 



That though all Oppositiotii highest tides 

Roar in its way, through their proud Conjuratton 

With instant Might it flies, and ev'ry where 

Finds Victory attending its career. 

154. 

Forth from her eyes, in spfght of all those tears 
Whose dduge domineerM there before. 
Sweet flames of gladness broke ; her head she rears 
With sudden briskness, and upon the shoar 
Of Comfort having fiz'd her foot, forgets 
Her shipwTBdc's Loss, and hasts to pay her debts. 

155- 

To Huttfn to Charts, to Syneidisis 
Her wingkl thanks she speeds ; but all aray'd 
In scarlet, from her cheeks, whose graceful Dress 
The beauty of her Penitence display'd. 

Blushes, though Blame's own Colours, are not blam'd : 
The greatest shame is not to be asham'd. 

156. 

But whilst She mdted into joy to see 
Her buried Soul rise up to life again ; 
A sudden Damp douds her Serenity, 
Alarming her with unsuspected pain : 

For Phyktx flutters in, and. Come, said he. 

You to the Grov$ wnut back again with me. 

157. 
As when the place of Robbery you name 
The Thief in white or red betrays his fear : 
So Psych£s heart gall'd with renewM shame 
By that word's pierdng rub, makes it appear 

In her appalM looks : And, ah, said she, 

Com'st thou thus to revive my Misery? 

158. 

Bid me go find some desp*rate rock from vi^hence 
Down I may phmge into the deepest Main : 
Bid me post headlong to th' infitnu^ Prince 
And covenant with him for eternal Pdn : 
Nay bid me do *t : or bid me not go where 
My fax worse Hdl win meet my guilty fear. 

I like thine anger well, crys Pkylax; but 
The Grcvt is not the Groos it was this Morn : 
Another visage I on it have put. 
Both chaste and safe, and fit for thy return. 

No Boar, no Wootr*% there : come let us go ; 

Both Ckaris and thy Maid will with us toa 

i6a 
This high assuiancei cheer'd her tim'rous heart 
Long us'd to holy confidence in Him : 
Besides, her faithfiil Consorts bore their part 
In this encouragement Yet did there swim 
Abont her breast, some tender trembling Doubts, 
Whidi spread like Mist upon her dearer thoughts: 



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CANTO II. 



i6i. 
Along they went : but coming near the Grvtw, 
Suspicious PsycMi quak'd and closer dung 
To Pt^lax, who reach'd out his shield of Love, 
Hie downy shelter of his Heavenly wing ; 
Under whose chearly shadow her he led 
Into the gloomy shades the Wood had spread. 

163. 
For now those pageant beauties which of late 
Had there trim'd up a Temple for Delight, 
Were all unmask'd ; and Metamchofy sate 
Shrowding her hideous self in mid-day night. 

The heavy nodding Trees all languishM. 

And ev'iy sleq>y bough hung down its head. 

163. 
There ApkrodiHus his best teeth had try'd 
' (And four of them lay broken on the ground) 
With irefiill restless knawing, to divide 
The Withe by which he to his shame was bound 
Straiter than to the Tree ; which yet he shook 
Till all its frighted Leaves their boughs forsook. 

164. 
But at the Visiters' approach, he bit 
His lips and Tongue, and spit them in their face. 
See Psyche, Pkylax crys. the Gallants wit, 
Who hopes to 'scape confessing his Disgrace : 
But strait I'l make his Dumbness find a Tongue 
To speak out his imposture, and thy wrong. 

165. 

Forthwith he from him snatch'd all He had stoll'n 
Of Earth's, of Air's, of Water's goodly'st store : 
The beauteous veil no sooner off was foU'n, 
But Afhsrodisius appears no more : 
It proves an hideous JUnd: and Psyclu crys. 
Running behind the Tree, God bless mine eyes ! 

166. 

A pois'notts stink then seasing on the Air, 
Strait Pkylax blew 't down to its native hell : 
And chearfuUy confuting Psyclu* s fear. 
Be bold said he, and mark the Monster well : 
There wantonis'd his curl'd Peruque, where now 
Two ragged Horns with rusty horror grow. 

167. 
That forehead he so &ir had plaister'd over 
With polish'd Flesh, hath chang'd iu stolen hue ; 
Being rough-cast with odious sores to cover 
The deadly juice that from his brain doth sue. 
Yet io, the Boils spew on his eyelids' hairs 
Fit matter for so foul a Monster's tears. 

168. 
Like to some Oven's black Arch, so hangs his Brow 
Over the furnace of his Eyes, wherein 



Delidons flames did radiantly glow. 
Bat now the Fire 's as dark as his own Sin ; 
And being fed with sulphure, doth confess 
What Is iu work, and where it kindled was. 

169. 

A doable alabaster Conduit hung 
Down from his forehead ; where is nothing now 
But those two rotten Pipes, not to be wrang4 
Least they together with their Moisture flow ; 

That baneful Moisture, which as deeply do's 

Poison, as it is pois'ned by the Nose. 

170. 
Two rows of Roses on those Lips did grow 
To sweeten every Word that travell'd by ; 
Bat now soorch'd black as Hell's own mouth, they show 
What kind of breath steams from his bosom's sty. 
A breath like that which from the chinmie's top 
Speaks iu own stink by what it vomiu iqi. 

171. 
His Cheeks, which lifted up two hills of Joy 
Wich flourishing spices crown'd ; are sank so low 
That like two hollow untffl'd Valleys, they 
With nothing but pale Desolation grow. 

Now grisely Hair deflowres his polish'd Skin, 

Shewing what he to Safyrs Is of kin. 

172. 

His slender Hands are swell'd to monstrous Paws. 
Whose Nails much longer than their fingers are. 
Sure his Imbrace is dainty when he throws 
Those chains about his Love ! but see'st thou there 

What at the portly Gallants back doth trail? 

His courtly Sword 's tum'd to a dangling Tail 

173. 

The martial Vigor which both spred and knit 

His manly limbs, is withered hito 

DiseasM Craziness ; his JoinU foiget 

Then- sturdy office, and his Sinnews no 
Tokens of their late active selves express : 
Witness his crinkling hams and trembling knees. 

174. 

Behold his goodly feet, where one great cleft 

Devides two toes pointed with iron daws. 

The rest of his fine body must be left 

Close sealM up by Modesty's chaste Laws. 
Yet may'st thou safely view his Bosom's cell 
And see what Jeweb in that casket dweU. 

This said ; his strangely-potent Wand's petard 
He smartly to the Monstet^s breast apply'd : 
Forthwith the bones which had so strongly barr'd 
The guilty passage up, flew all aside. 

This foulest Book now frdrly open'd, on 

The Angel thus did in his Lecture run : 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



4i 



176. 
Mark where ten thotuand Charms and Kisses lie 
And Complements of every garb and kind ; 
IVith which on heedless Virgins he doth flie, 
And whom he sofdiest toucheth, surest bind. 
Look where upon the top those Courtships be 
Which bravely wooid and indianted Thee. 

177. 
In that sfy comer, (and observe it well,) 
Sneak vaifous Shapes, whkh allway changing be ; 
Shapes trim and smooth and iiahr without, but full 
Of inward Venom : which industrious He 
Subtly improves to comely Treacheries, 
Handsom Impostures, and wdfavor'd Lies. 

178. 

See'st thou not there the model of the Beast, 
That hideous Witchery which ohaHMl Thee ; 
With all the amorous story sprucely drest 
To court and cheat thy credulous chastity? 

Never did Cwumigt with more lovely art, 

Or fiace more honest, act a fouler part. 

But yet there 's something stranger lurks beUnd : 
^'st thou that Scroll? Jtis^a full Commisskm 
1^ which he made this ^P^, ready sign'd, 
And strength'ned by the broad Seal of Perdition. 
Come, 1 1 untwine the knot of snakes which tye 
It up, and &in would hide it from thine eye. 

iSo. 
Lo here a scheme of such confounding Letters 
And scrambling Lines, as never Conjurer writ : 
His forks, hooks, prongs, nicks, gibbets, grid-irons, 

fetters, 
And all the wild Tools of his spightful Wit 
Are BeUeimVs made Alphabet : but hear 
How well I ken his mystic Character. 

181. 

Satan tkigreai, God of Hell, Earth, and Air ; 

Of Mm and Angels everlasting foe ; 

Rival of Heav'm, and of Heav'n's only Heir; 

Monarch of Pride, Rage, Blasphemy and Woe ; 
Out of our princely grace, to our right vicious 
And trusty friend and Cousin Apkrodisims. 

182. 

To thee by these our Letters-Patents, we 

Give full authority the Soul to seise 

Of hated Psyche ; by what treachery 

Shall best thy cunning and thy malice please ; 
That here her QuiU may fry to that d^;Tee 
Of Psngs which our just vengeance shaU decree. 

183. 
And see thy diligence as great appear 
As are thy Helps; for hereby over a|l 

46 



The Forces in our Realms of Earth and Air 

We constitute thee Captain General, 
Giv'n at our flaming Court of Desperation, 
This sizt age of our Soverain Damnation. 

184. 

Thus having read these cursM Lines ; again 

He crow'ds the Scroll into the Furie's breast ; 

And, Home, says he, and ask your Soverain 

A larger Patent : see you are releast. 
But here I hang the withe, that ever you 
Return this way, this Token please to know. 

i8s. 
Th' unfetter' d/rtJMf heaving an hidious sigh, 
And tearing his fell locks with helpless wrath, 
Flung down his Patent, and away did fly. 
The Grove smoak'd as he went ; in all his path 
What Trees he met, he rent, and burnt in pain 
Till in Hell's flames he plungM was again. 

186. 
This Spectacle so melted Psyche's heart 
That flowing forth in holy Shaine and Joy, 
FVesh Thanks and Blt)shes to her Friend's desert 
Most earnestly she pays : O never may 
My God remember me, said she, if I 
Forget your blessM Love's dear Constancy. 

187. 

Farewel fialse Beauties ; Heav'n above, I 'm sure 

Is full as fiur within as 'tis without : 

No Apkrodisins there ; but all as pure 

As vhgin Crystal, or your spotless Thought 
Dear Phylax, which from thence iu pattern takes. 
And a new Heav'n in your sweet bosom makes. 

188. 
There will I fix my heart : there dwells my Lmte, 
My Life my Lord^ much purer then his palace ; 
Whose Paradise shall be the. only Grave 
To which my Soul shall pant for genuine soteoe. 

Forbid it Jesn, any thing below 

Be Master of this breast, whose Lord art Thau. 

189. 
Most, most deserving Thou ; who to intioe 
My undeserving Soul, beset'st her ways 
With such rich Baits as far transcend the price 
Of all this vain World's most illustrioiis Toys : 

Safe Baits, which hide no hooks, or none but such 

As into Liberty their Pris'ners catch. 

19a 

Thus sweedy breathing out her ardent Psssion, 
She with her heav'nly Consorts homeward goes ; 
Yet fay the way renews at every station 
Her cordial Thanks and her pathetidc Vows. 
At length got home, she to her Closet hasu. 
Where all her Soul at her Lot^s fieet she casts, 

f 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVJSrS MYSTERY. 



CANTO II. 



191. 
Whmt pimyers were there, what thanks, what sighs, what 

tears. 
What seal, what languishment. what ecstasies, 
What confidenoe, what shame, what hopes, what fears. 
What pains, what joys, what thoughu. what words t 
She dies 
And yet she lives, and yet she dies again 
And woald for ever live so to be slain. 

192. 
So to be slain ; for every Death she dies 
Higher and higher lifts her into life. 
Her Weakness is strong Love : in which she tries 
The utmost of her power, and by that strife 

Of humble boldness wrestles to obtain 

Her will of Him who on Heav'n's Throne doth reign. 

193. 

But fainting Nature (for 'twas midnight now, 

And hard sh'had wrought and traveU'd far that day,) 

Permitted sleep to grow upon her brow ; 

And tho' unwilling, down at last she lay. 
Sweet was her Rest ; but sweeter far that Dream 
Which now about her wond'ring soul did swim. 

194- 

IwioginoHori i diariot convoy'd her 
Into a garden where more Beauties smil'd 
Than Aphrodisius's Grove's false face did wear. 
And gentler Gales the air with odours fill'd : 
Lilies on every bed such sheets did spread 
As scom'd the whitest cap of Taunu's head. 

195. 

The goodly Walks politely pavM were 

With Alabaster, whose unspotted face 

Lay'd fairly ope unto the silver sphere 

Which roU'd above, a comely Looking-glass : 
Whether upward She, or downward tum'd her eye. 
Still she beheld the same heav'n's majesty. 

196. 

Their heads no trees presumM there to shew 

Which e'r had been deflour'd by Winter's blast : 

Plants of eternal verdure only grew 

Upon that virgin soil ; such trees as cast 
Both cool and constant shades ; and having been 
Planted of old, still liv6d young and green. 

197. 
No fountain bnbkd there, but fed with springs 
Of purest milk ; upon whose dainty shoar 
Chaste^ighing Turtles sate, and wash'd their wings. 
Though full as white and pure as it before. 
But thus one Cand&r pour'd upon another 
Do's kindly kiss and sport it with his brother. 



198. 

A princely Castle in the mid'st commands, 

Invincible for strength and for delight ; 

Ftam'd aU of massy crystal, and by hands 

As pure as those Materials were bright. 
A dearer Court was ne'r by Poifs brain 
Built for Queen Tkeiis in her watery Main. 

199. 

Ten thousand Bi$uMa stood before the Gate, 

With AiagmanimitUs all hand In hand ; 

As many PuriiUs In modest state 

Were rangM with as many Bea$UUs, and 
Young smiling Graas; whose sweet task it was 
To be the Guard of that dilidous Place. 

aoo. 
As /VyrA^ wooder'd at th' iUnatrioos sight. 
Her coostant Pkyiax met her pusl'd eye : 
Strait she demands. What Plaoe was that, so bright 
' With more than earthly pomp I for CkasHty 

*Twas built, said He, and buUt by Him who is 

The Swtrain of all vertuous Clarities. 

aoi. 

Behold, the Gate is openmg now, and all 

Th' offidotts Guard gives way : here shalt thou see 

(For this is CkasHtids high festival,> 

A strange Pkooession's solemnity ; 
And witness be what splendid Princes are 
The stars which move about this limpid sphere. 

202. 
There oonei the first : Obaerve his royal gate, 
Mfl||estic yet not proud : about his brows 
A gUtteriqg Coronet wreatiis his prinody state. 
And in his hand a Palm his triumph shows ; 
Full flows his Robe, and following his steps. 
Them with a train imperial fairly sweeps. 

203. 
Less white this Pavement is, less sweet are those 
Perfumed Lilies, than that Robe of his. 
Fkom his own Fleece Hiov'n't Lcmb was pleas'd 10 

choose 
The richest snowiest Wool, to doth and dress 
His spotless friends and fellow-lambs, who are 
All privileg'd this Livery to wear. 

204. 
Those graceful Eyes, in which Lovis Throne is set. 
Are they which did PoU^ura defy : 
What need I that fresh History repeat? 
This is that yas^k, tho' advanoM high 

In Pharaoh's realm, yet now more glorious grown, 

Holding a fisirer Kingdom of his own. 

205. 

The next 's a FewtaU, in the same array ; 
For Sexes here no outward diflierence show, 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



43 



But all like Angels live, since noble They 
Strove to for^t their He and She below 
And, tho' dogg'd with gross Earth, yet overtake 
That spotlesness which us doth equal make. 

206. 

SusoMwa is her Name, and gloriously 
Her ^Hrtue made it good : What Lily e'r 
Could clearer fiurer proofs produce that She 
Did in her native whiteness persevere ? 
Ev'n life could not, altho' its price be high 
Hire her to give her Ltfy-namt the ly. 

207. 
The goodly Orb of that her radiant face. 
Which none but chaste and holy beams did shed. 
Two lustful Elders made their daily Glass, 
And with the Antidote invenomM 

Their shameless Hearts. So bold is Lust, that she 

Dares hope to find a Blot in Purity. 

208. 

When Cancer scorch'd the World, and tender She 

Went m her private Garden's shaded Spring, 

(As in the Emblem of her Chastity) 

To cool her bashful self ; They issuhig 
Out of their ambush, in their doaths express 
More shame, than Her discover'd Nakedness : 

209. 
We too, are hot, cry they ; but none but Thou 
Canst quench the fury of our mighty flames : 
Thou art the Fount in which all Pleasures flow. 
And we are come to bath us in thy streams, 
indd, as thou lov'st thy life ; else We will swear 
That in Adultery we caught Thee here. 

210. 

Nay swear we wiU : nor must thy Vows and Tears 
E'r hope to make the Truth as naked be 
As Thou art now : such Reverence guards our years, 
That in our lies no Eye dares falshood see. 
Fond squeamish Soul, what profit is't to Thee 
To lose thy Life, and keep thy Chastity? 

211. 

Then wdoome Death ; thy gastly face, said She. 

Is fairer than the Visage of this sin. 

Here she cry'd out aloud ; and instantly 

Her startled Handmaids all rush'd shrieking in : 
Whom both the fulmouth'd Elders hastenM 
To catch th' Adulterer, who, said they, was fled. 

212. 
Then haling Her unto the Bar, their own 
Ouih upon her they throw, and she must dy : 
But strait a Miracle crowds in to crown 
The truth of her unoonquer'd Chastity. 



This tum'd the Sentence on her slanderous Foes : 
They to be ston'd, and She to triumph goes. 

213. 
There comes the second Joseph, but as far 
Before in honor as in time behind : 
In Virtue's shop as skill'd a Carpenter 
As in his own ; whose Art a way could find 

To frame a Life (and raise the building high,) 

Both of Hennc Worth, and Poverty. 

214. 

Mine and my Brethren's Office (tho* it be 

Both sweet and glorious,) down must stoop to His ; 

His, who was Guardian of Divinity , 

And of the Mother o/all Sweetnesses. 
And yet no Angd envy'd Him his place. 
Who ever look'd upon his wonderous fisuse. 

215. 
What Gravity dwdls there, and what Delight. 
What Tenderness, and what Austerity i 
How high and humble are his Looks, how bright 
And gently-meek his Eyes ! how sweetly He 
Seems here in glorie's Heav'n not to forget 
That Ck>ud which upon him in Earth did sit 1 

216. 

But look, and see thou start not at the sight. 

Those Beams, tho' more than sun-like, lovely be ; 

Now dawns of Heav'n and Earth the choice Delight, 

The Queen of Softness and of Purity : 
Millions of Laves come tripping in her way, 
Fkiwn from her Eye in a forerunning Ray. 

217. 

Behold her fitce, and read all Paradise, 

And more, in Flesh and Blood : in vain we seek 

By Flora's Jewds to emblematize 

The Gallantry of Her illustrious' chedc. 
At whose sweet composition every Grace 
Ran crowding in, for fear to lose its place. 

218. 
All Cherubs and all Seraphs have I seen 
In thdr high Beauties on Heav'n's Holydays ; 
But still the gracious splendor of this Queen 
SweeUy outglitters their best tire of Rays : 
For all her wondrous Glories' Texture is 
A Web of Sweetness fring'd with Joy and Bliss. 

219. 
How rude and course-spun those Idea's were 
Which sprucest Pagan- Wits did ever frame. 
When Beautie's Idol they desir'd to rear 
In amorous fandes' temple 1 What broad shame 
And studied scorn would their best Pens have thrown 
Upon that Venus, if they This had known ! 



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CANTO II. 



220. 
This MoUur ofdivinist Lovt^ as pure 
As is that other putid ! Noblest Tongues 
When they triumphant are, and would be sure 
With double HeaVn to swell and bless their Songs ; 
First chant the Son, and then the Mother: He 
B^ns, and She makes up the Harmony. 

221. 

Her Crown imperial acornetli to be deckt 
With oriental Diamonds, being set 
With purer Sons of Light, whilst most select 
ViHmis (because her own) embellish it. 
Yet those bat poorly-glinunering Co^ be 
Of her rich heart's original Trtasmy. 



222. 
I need not tell thee Mary is her Name ; 
Her potent influence me prevented has : 
This cold dead Pavement lively doth proclaim 
What Feet with newborn lilies trimm'd its fiace : 
Whose but the Virgin-Mothgr's steps could bless 
A soil so barren with such fertileness? 

223. 

Turn, Psyche, and behold who cometh there : 

The King, the King of royal Chastity. 

She look'd ; but look'd not long : For upon her 

Weak &oe such mighty beams from His did fly, 
That starting at th' intolerable stroke. 
She rubb'd her daslM eyes, and so awoke. 



NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Stanza a, 1. i, 'sodtf'd* s soldered: L 3, *r»ichUss* 
s reckless, unconcerned. 
,, 6, L a, ' snumng' = to lie dose, or * snudge/ 
nai exactly * nestling.' CI Herrick :— 

' Under a Lawne, then skies mora deare, 
Some ruffled Roses nestling were : 
And snufgi'if there, they seem'd to lie 
As in a flowne Nunnery. (My edn. t 4a.) 

7*1- 3, 'vtrdmt' ssraduiX. 

9, 1. I, ' Twins a/hiov'n ' s sign of the Zodiac 

{Gentini), 
33, 1 3, 'dismal' a horrid, frightful : 1. 6, 

' vfruth ' = opposition causing pain ? 
24, U. 3-4 : 'The fearfiill flowersfeU down upon 
their beds. 
Closing their fainting eyes.' 
Cf. Oasbaw cSthe Fury sent to Earth :— 

' HeaVn saw her rise, and saw Hell in the sight : 
The fields' fidra eyes saw her, and saw no more, 
Bttt shot their Howry lids for ever.' (My edn. L iis.) 

ay, 1. I, 'snarled' » entaiwled, as before : 1. 3, 
'peevish' ^ fretful Cf. st 93. 1 6. 

5X1 1* 3> ' ^oahish ' s given to reading (over- 
much). 

54, 1. a, ' irim ' ^ adorn. 

ox, 1. I, 'Disease' » Bibliomania. 

6a, 1. 4, ' itch ' = itdsing. curiosity. 
,, 64, 1. 4, ' ntMe ' SB red. 

74, 1. 3, • scores ' = debu— as ' scored ' up with 
c£alk on back of door or in books : 1. 6, 
* loose ' = lose. 

75, L 4, ' Mystery' » secret. Of. Ephesians iii. 
3 : vi. 10. 

79i !• 5> *iolooh in print;' qu.— as in printed 
books instructions are given him to dress 
and 'look'? 

80, 1. a, ' run on the score '—into debt Cf. st. 
74, 1. 3 and relative note : L 4, ' Sonnets' 
—which was the mode of love-making, 
earlier and later frx)m Wyat to Shake- 
speare and onward. 

91, 1. z. '/uitide' s fuU-tide or full-tided, 
loa, L a, ' niceness' s scrupulousness. 
105. 1. z, 'Jtung' = flounced. 
Z07, L z, ' steeping' = macerating or soaking. 
„ Z08, 1. 4. ' amain ' s forthwith, forcdully im- 
plied : Hid, ' inientive ' s dosely-attentive, 
stretching forward. 



Stasia ZZ4, 1. «, ' rampant' * reariog (a heraldic term), 
zao, L 6, 'Ueger* » ambassador (resident). 
za4, L I, ' tearing' » leering. 
Z96, L 3, 'trimmd' » adorned. Cf. st 54, L a. 
Z98, L 6, ' snort d' = entangled. Cf. st 87. L i. 
»3S. '• S» *roul' a roll. 
139. 1* 4* *eourse' « ooarae. 
146,1.3, 'AcOr'sbefchflS. 
Z49, L 4, 'of* ss offi 
151 1 L 5i 'cates' = provisions. 
Z57, L 4, 'mh' s unevenness or obstacle, 
toa. 1, a, ' trim'd,' Cf. st 54, L a : st r96, 1. 3. 
Z63, L 4, * Withe* a wiUow sapling. 
z66, L z, 'sensing' = seising: L 5, 'Pemqne'- 

wig. 
Z67, L 4^-'*^ '—ran as from a common sewer or 

X73t L 6, 'erinhling* s shrinking. 

Z75, L z. 'petard' s engine of andent war : L 6. 
'Lecture' a reading or speech. 

Z76. L 9, ' ComplemenU' = oompUments. 

i79i L 3i * voyage' = Journey— now limited to 
sea-Journeying. 

Z84, L 5, 'mAU.' Cf. st Z63, 1. 4, and note. 

Z90, 1, a, ' Consorts' s sisterly companions. 

X94, 1. z, ' convoy' d ' s conveyed, but implying 
companionship. It is still thus used in 
Scotland, as when a young man sees his 
' sweet-heart ' home or most of the way, or 
when a friend aoccNnpanies another on 
depaitiug. 

909, 1. z, 'eate ' = gait. 

906, 1 6, 'Li/y-name,* vis. Susannah =Zoi;ffdiva, 
i,e, ri^ff^, ' a iny,' or bright flower. 

9ZZ, 1. 5, 'fnl-mouth'd* s foul-mouthed, as the 
context shows. See st 009-9x0. Usually 
it is a fixll-moutbed or the month filled 
^nrith food) as Quarles (Emblems v. 7, 
Epigram) : — 
'Cheer ap, my sotil, call home thy Bp*rits, and bear 
One bad Good-FHday ; fuU-mooth'd Easter's near. 
i.e, Easter that fills the mouth or brings 

azy, L 4, ' illmstrions' b lustrous. 
9x8, 1. 4, ' tire ' s head-dress. 
9Z9, 1 z, 'conrse' b coarse. 
990, L 9, 'pMtid' a putrid? htiOA^prndidns (from 
pmteo), to have an ill smell.— G. 



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rT^ ^T^ ^T^ T^ iT^ T^ rT> ^T^ /T^ rT\ wT\ wT^ fT\ rT\ rT\ rTyrJ\ ^T^ fT^ ^T\ ^t> 'iTT^ T* /T^^T^T^ 



CANTO III. 
The Girdle^ or Love-Token. 



The ARGUMENT. 

Her Spouse, in token of his royal Love 
^ Girdle %nio Fqrcfae JMufr/ wherein 
Theaeenraie Worhs historic Beauty strove 
The radiant Materials to outshine, 
Pbyhx the rich Embroidery expounds. 
And with the Token then the Maid surrounds. 



SHORT Taste of Pleasures, bow dost thou tonnent 
A liquorish Soul, when onoe inflam'd by thee I 
Desire's sweet-cruel edge might soon relent, 
Didst thou not whet it to that keen degree. 
That nothing but complete fruition will 
The longing of its wakened stomadi fill. 

2. 
The Seaman, who hath with unwearied pain 
Wrought throufl^ a thousand stonns, and gain'd the 

sight 
Of his sweet Home ; that some cross wind again 
Robs him of that dear^purchasM delight, 
He finds a greater storm hi's breast arise 
Pouring his sonows through his mockid eyes. 



The pinM Man, on whom a thinner She, 

Insatiable Faming long hath fed ; 

Covets no Heav'n or Paradise to see 

But what lies moulded up in any Bread 
One glimpse of this, bids Hope return, and Ugfat 
Life in those eyes which were bequeath'd to Night. 



But if that cheerful Mora o'rdouded be, 
And his young Comforts in their cradle slain ; 
The Ingitive Blessing lieeds his misery. 
And by rebound exalts it to a strain 
Of Ugher Anguish : now his fimcy more 
Do's gnaw him, than his Hunger did before. 



/ So Psyche famishid with strong desire 
To view her Spouse, no sooner 'gan to taste 



Of his first Lustre, but that dainty fire 
Made her all-ravish'd Heart y€y's Holocaust: 
All other Days she counted Night to this, 
Whose Dawn had broach'd such golden floods of Bliss. 



But when immensity of Beams had cast 
That cloud of weakness on her mortal eye ; 
And whilst she found it, she the Light had lost 
In too much Light ; her longing sweU*d so high, 
That did not sighs unload her lx>80m, it 
Had by th' impatient bdking Tumor split. 



She sighs, and thinks ; and then she sighs again : 
Each firustrate thought which laboured to comprise 
What seeing kept from sight, makes her complain 
Her thoughts were dasl'd, as before, her eyes. 

Yet still she thhiks, and grieving loves to be 

Pusl'd in that delkaous misery. 

8. 

That Glorious she hnew not what, whose glance 
No less attracted than repuls'd her look, 
Rack'd her upon Imagination's Tnanoe 
Untill her over-strainM Pnsaion broke : 
Whose toirent through her lips now gushing out. 
This amorous Lamentation forth she brought : 

9. 

O happy ye, stout Bogles, happy ye. 

Whose pure and genuine eyes are temperM 

To that brave Vigor, that the Majesty 

Of your betovM Sun can never shed 
Such bright extrendties o/Heai^n, but you 
Can drink them in as fast as they can fkyw : 

la 
You perch'd on some safe Rode can sit and see 
How when the East unlocks his ruby gate, 
Ftom rich Aurora's bed of Roses He 
Sweeter than it doth rise ; what Robe of state 
That day He deigns to guild, what Tire of Ught 
He on his temples binds there to grow bright. 



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CANTO III. 



II. 

Not one of those brisk Eyes with which by night 

HeaVn looks so big and glorious, but at 

The mighty dint ev'n of his dawning light 

lu coaquer'd and abashM self doth shut. 
'Tis your prerogative alone to bear 
That Splendor's stroke which daxles every Star. 

12. 

Into his Chariot of flaming gold 
You see him mount, and give his purple steeds 
Leave to draw out the Day : you see him roU'd 
Upon his diamond Wheels, whose bounty breeds 
That gorgeous Family of Pearls, which dwells 
On eastern shores in their fiur Mother-shells. 

13- 
You see him climb Heav'n's highest silver hill, 
And through crass Cancer make the Hours run right. 
There with his widest looks your own you fill, 
An<f riot in that royal feast of light ; 

Whilst to your eyes your souls fly up and gaze 

On every Beauty of his high-noon face. 

14- 
You see Him till faito the steep-down West 
He throws his course, and in th' Ailamtick Deep 
Washes the sweat from his £Gdr brow and breast. 
And oool his smoaking steeds, and yields to sleep 
Among the watry Nymphs, who in his rest 
Waft him through by-paths back into his East. 

15. 
The kind Day thus makes all her hours attend 
Your undisturbM Joys; but fainting me 
With one poor minute she will not befriend 
That I my fiurer sweeter Sun may see. 
Yet why blame I the Day t she's clear and &ir : 
But you, adulterate eyes, you cloudy are. 
16. 

^ Had you been constant, such had been my Bliss : 
But you with faithless cowardize gave in. 
Surely II be reveng'd on you for this, 
Till yon repent your treachery in brine. 

Perhaps when tears have wash'd you dean, you may 
Suit with the pureness of my Spmts^s ray. 

17. 
These querulous sighs, by their impatient blast 
Drove on the cloud, and now the Rain began ; 
Down her swoU'n cheeks drops great and nuroerouB 

haste, 
For more and greater still came crowding on ; 
Whilst either eye-lid sprinkled in the crow'd 
A living rainbow on its margin showd. 

18. 
Strange Fire of noble Love, which thus can leed 
And feast on Water ; which H^y^^^Tiy iq fimi 



Delight in Joy, or Rest in Pleasure's bed I 
Which seeks its Calm in sighs' tumultuous Wfaid ! 
Which dares amidst Griefs Sea expect a shore 
Of Peace, and Quiet in a Tempest's roar. 

'9- 

But as this storm sweli'd high, in Phylax flies, 
Whose yeming sweetness almost loos'd the rein 
To \i& own gentle sympathetic eyes. 
Seeing the flood of Psyche's : but in pain. 
Till she was out, He bastes to chase away 
Those sullen clouds which damp'd her joyous day. 

2a 
For with his wing he wip'd her blubber'd face, 
And £um'd fresh comfort on her fiunting mind : 
Quarrel not with thine tyts; thy Vision was 
Too visible; and they by growing blind 
Their duty did, said He. being dogg'd as yet 
With lazy dust, for sprightful sifl^U unfit 

2t. 

Have patience tiU that Dust be put to bed, 

And mizM with the grave ; then shall thine Eye. 

From its dull former self awakenM, 

Open into a full capacity 
Of viewing Him, whose lovely Princely Look 
Shall be thy safe and everlasdog Book. 

22. 
Mean while, this Token He is pleas'd to send, 
Hophig thoult for his sake wear't next thy heart : 
No Lover e'r woo'd his adorfed Friend 
With richer Present ; that thou ne'r maist start 

From his aflection, with this Girdle He 

Contrives to bmd thee to Felicity. 

23. 

The Ground *s a texture all of Turtles' down. 
Which dares call virgin-snow both harsh and bUuh : 
For He himself deep dy'd it in Us own 
River of Whiteness, whose meek head doth make 
Its nest at his throne's foot ; where once when He 
But dip'd his hand, the fount prov'd Purity. 

24. 
To a dioice Grace to spin He put it out. 
That itt fine thread might answer her neat hand ; 
And then through all heav'n's Jewel-house He sought 
What Gems to honor with this Ground: The strand 

Of predous India no such Treasure shows ; 

Above, the Ocean of true Jewels flows. 

25. 

Ten thousand glittering things He turning o'r. 

Cull'd out a glorious heap: Yet if, said He. 

I throng my Darling with this massy store. 

'Twill to a Burden swell my Courtesy : 
She tender is. and so my Love is too : 
I wish her all ; but these for all shall go. 



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CANTO III. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVEPS MYSTERY, 



47 



26. 

And those were Jaspers. Diamonds, Onyxes, 

Topaxes, BerjU. Rubies, Amethysts ; 

All fitly polish'd for embroideries ; 

But brighter Cu* than ever flam'd on Priests' 
Or Piinoes' crown : Which as He sending was 
To honor with the work, another Grace, 

27. 
His Siufwjf Moikir, waiting all that while 
At his right hand, melted down on her knee. 
And sweetly beg'd that Office : In a smile 
(His constant aspect towards Her and Thee.) 
He granu her kind request ; Yet stay, and let 
Says He, my choice Thee with a NeedU fit. 

28. 
A Twist of Glories o'r his shoulders thrown, 
About his back a sportful Quiver roll'd. 
Of metal in this grosser worid unknown. 
The tkrue^rgjiiUd Qmnttssuut of Gold. 

Yet was the splendid Houst less pure and fine 

Than those Inka bitamts it did inshrine. 

29. 

No sooner He unlock'd the glorious Lid, 

But lo, a Cloud of living Joys and Smiles 

Which in that merry Region were bred, 

Breaths out itself, and all SpecUtors fills 
With vigorous PliosurtSt and with fresh Dmrts 
To view that fountain whence such Bliss expires. 

Innumerable Shafu there nestling lye 

And keep each other warm with mutual flames. 

Since all their metal's mystic Ardency; 

A Metal which outbraves the gaudiest beams 
That play about the Stars, or those which flov^ 
From Tiian^s eyes, when they in Highmoon glow. 

31. 

For those top raies which dart pure Spirits of Splendor 
Lovt once selecting from his royal Crown, 
These Arms, said He, as solid are as slender ; 
My Quiver shall this sole Artillery own : 
My Heavn's the Bow which at my Earth I bend, 
And that my Arrows to their Mark shall send. 



There's no such thing, believe it Psyche, there. 
As UadcH Bolts, steep'd in cold Scorn and Hate : 
Each Darfs a Son of fervor, and do's wear 
A rich remembrance of its Master^ s frue ; 
For deep dy'd in his mighty predous Blood, 
It keeps the pow'r and tincture of the flood. 

33. 
/ With these He wounds his best-bek>vid Hearts, 
And by each Wound sets ope to U/k its way : 



'Lift is the point of these mysterioits Darts 
Which with dear Joy and dainty Vigor slay. 

They slay indeed, yet still reviving be ; 

They nothing murder but Mortality. 

34. 
The threads of softest flax show gross and course 
Compared with these, so delicate are they : 
Yet cruel Sted strikes with less boistrous force. 
And with less fiUal certainty doth slay. 
Immortal Eys alone can view them, but 
No way they see to fence the subtile shot. 

35. 
They quench their noble thirst wheree'r they list 
Sucking and quaffing in the royal veins 
Of our sublimest Cherub's deepest breast : 
AU Heav'n's bright Hierarchy with joy complains 
Of those sweet deaths these potent Weapons give. 
By which in Plains of amorous Bliss they live. 

36. 

Lfwt choosing one of these from its bright Nest 
Applies it near his own all-piercmg Ey, 
From whose acute intention there prest 
A Dint so searching, that inmiediatdy 
The yidding Dart did answer't by a new 
Eye of its own, and so a Needle grew. 

37. 
Then from his golden Locks, that curled Grove 
Of thousand Little Loves, one single Hair 
He pluck'd : And this alone, said He, will prove 
Suffident Thread to finish all thy fiur 

Embroidery ; 'twill stretch, and always be 

Longer and longer to Eternity. 



Here take thy Tool ; but let th' Invention be 
Thine own ; for who with comdier art can fit 
The emblematic Gift of Chastity, 
Than Thou, the Mother both of Me and it / 
She bowing low, her thanks and duty throws 
Before his feet, and to her work she goes. 

39. 

Th' offidous Graces tripped after Her 

With meet attendance on her lily train, 

Unto that Tower of living Crystal, where 

Thy Vision latdy thee did entertain. 
That milky ^^y which down Heav'n's mountain flows 
Its beauteous smoothness to Her footsteps ows. 

40. 

Oft had she trac'd and traven'd it ; but ne'r 
With cheerlier countenance or nimbler pace : 
The pleasure of her Task could not fort)ear 
To shew itself both in her feet and face ; 

So mudi she jo/d this Virgin^worh should be 

Child to the Mother of Virginity. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO III. 



41. 

The Castle Gates in a soft smfle flew ope 
To see their Quum^ and bid her wdoome in. 
She looks about her in that curious shop 
Of PwtriHis, uncertain where to 'gin : 
She all approves, and therefore doth demur 
Among so many BisU^ which to prefer. 



The lofty Roof of that illustrious Hall 

"Wiih Sighs and amorous Languisknunis was seai'd. 

F>om whence in most delicious drops did fall 

Down to the floor heartmdting Tears, and yield 
A peariy pavement, which the ground's cool Idss 
Into ckasU Firmitude did crystallise. 

43- 
The TwiUgfat's tears shed in the laps of flowers 
Less gracefully reflect Heav'n's rising Ey. 
When Phoebus lets in the Diurnal Hours 
And trims his face upon the Monihig sky ; 
Than these revert>erated that fitir Look, 
Which from the Virgin* s entring £ace they took. 



Thick were the Walls impeopled^with the stories 
CX those whom CkasHiy had doth'd in WhiU, 
Ftom antient Ahtts most unspotted glories, 
Unto the latest beams of viigin-4ight : 
That Ahtl who first to his LiUts tied 
Martyrdom's R^ts^ in whose bed he died. 

45. 

But at the upper end a Table hung 
All of one qiariding Diamond, fiur and high. 
Whose brighter Lines the noblest Angtts tongue 
Is proud to read. It was the Histoiy 
Of^^whimsdf, in sculpture so divine 
That every Word the Table did outshine. 

For every Word seem'd more than seemingly 

To live and breathe and walk and operate. 

And glorioosly maintain affinity, 

With that hnmorul Ward whose mortal staU 
Reviv'd on this fiUr Stage ; on which were met 
Both his fiist BttkUhem and last Olivgt. 

47. 
Long look'd she on this Pourtrait, and forgot 
By looking long, that she had look'd at all : 
Her Eyes, whose prey that Object was, did not 
Perceive how by their pris'ner they were stcde ; 
Nor was she ¥reU aware how with her eyes 
Her heart was gone, and made the Picture's prise. 

48. 

At length she sweetly cries, O that this hand 
Might dimw those Lines of Bliss, of Life, of Love I 



Till Timi do's fall I'd be content to stand 
And practise here, so I at last might prove 

ArUst enough to form one Copy which 

With more than all Heav'n would poor Earth inrich. 

49. 

But my Almigkty Lord and Son who did 

React his Stories on this diamond Scene, 

By his own finger, can be copied 

0>nly by it : Though He would make a Qneen 
Of worthless me, yet meet He judg'd it still 
That hi his Handmaid some defect should dwell. 

50. 

This word strait summon'd in th' ingenuous cheek 
Of an the Gmast which about her prest 
An universal blush, to hear their meek 
Though highest Empress : And, may we at least 

Copy, said they, this Lowliness, more due 

To vulgar us, than unto Soverain you. 

5L 

But turning to the next her busy ejfe. 
And reading there in glorious triumph drawn 
The sweet Exploits of her Virginity: 
She UushM more than they, and of their own 
Shame made them all asham'd, to see how fax 
It was outpurpled and outgrain'd by Her. 

$2. 
By her, who cry'd, since He is Lord snpremo. 
What help, If He be pleas'd to have It so. 
If next his own He ranks his Vassal's fa^me. 
And, prints it in a Book of Diamond too. 
'Tis not the Picture of what I did merit. 
But what His favour maketh me inherit 

53. 

For what was I, a Lump of sordid Clay, 

Who would have Lowty been, but could not be ; 

For when I sunk my self, and lowest lay 

Flat in the dust of my Humility. 
Too high I was, and might most Justly in 
My native Nothings gulf have pIungM been. 

54- 
Had I had any thing ist truth mine Mnt, 
I fixmi that step might lowlily have bow'd : 
But seeing at/ is His, aforehand thrown 
Was I beneath descent, though truly Proud 
Vile Dust may be, yet property to speak, 
What springs torn Nothing never can be Meek. 

55. 

Whilst hi this Pwadoxe's rapture she 

Breathes forth her Piety ; the Graces by 

Her, strong Dispute against it, clearer see 

Th' iUustrious Triith of her Humility. 
(Thus when the blushing Rose her self doth ck»e 
Up in her bod, her sweetness widest flows.) 



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CANTO III. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



49 



56. 

Then round besieging Her with bended knees, 

In a conspiracy of reverend love. 

They charge Her thus : Seek no more stories ; these 

Of thine, the best imbroidery will prove. 
Dogiade not what thy Son prefers, nor be 
Because He loves thee, thine own enemy. 

57. 

Nay gentle Sisters, sweetly she repUes, 

I love my self too well so proud to grow ; 

Though other hands applaud my victories, 

Mine own would them deCiice by doing sa 
Were that my work, this Needle at each letter 
Would piick my heart, because I was no better. 

58. 

Lo in that next, that ruby Table there. 
An heav'nly Pattern : wdl the Man I know. 
Both to my Lard and Me a friend most dear, 
When we with him were sojourners below. 
Pure was his Life, and pure his Office was, 
Clensing the way where Puntuu was to pass. 

59- 

Chaste Excellence, devout severity. 

Courageous Temperance, death-daring Zeal, 

An flourish hi his blessM History : 

Of both the Testaments the middle Seal 
And Clasp was He ; and who so fit to be 
This GfirdUi beauty, as conjuncHve He 9 

6a 

Whilst on the noble Baptist thus her eyes 
And praises dwelt ; a Graci had fill'd in haste 
Her lap with lilies, and the dainty prise 
Into a chahr of Alabaster cast. 

The gentle Virgin smil'd at first to see 't ; 

Then down she sits and makes her Cushion sweet. 

61. 

Her maiden Train strait gathers dose about. 
And ¥dth a Jewel each one ready stands. 
To her dear Work she falls ; and as she wrought, 
A sweet Creation followM her hands : 

Upon her knee apace the Table grew 

And every figure to the Texture flew. 

62. 
As wcsik^ fancy in a midnight's dream 
With strange eztemporal dexterity 
What Scenes, what Throngs, what Worlds she lists doth 

frame, 
Making the most divided things agree, 
And most united snarle ; though in a scant 
Nook of the brain her spacious works be pent 

63. 

So wrought this nimble Artist, and admir'd 
Her self to see the Work march on so fast. 

46 



Surely th' ambitious History desir'd 

To this new dignity amain to haste, 
And purchase to iu single ruby beams 
The various Lustres of ten thousand Gems. 

64. 
The hindmost features forward crowd ; for all 
Would needs thrust in, and rather choose to be 
Justled, and press'd, and nipp'd into a small 
(Yet fully glorious) epitomy ; 
Than in that little Dwelling loose their seat. 
Where sweet Contraction made their worth more great, 

65. 

And now the Girdle proves a Throng, which in 
Each several Gem did find an Union : 
But eminent above the rest did shine : 
The lovely Master of the business, John ; 

One^iferent John, who. as the Work doth rise. 

Lives, preaches, washes, suffers prison, dies. 

66. 

Th' Imbroidery finish'd thus : that with more speed 
She might present it to her mighty Son, 
She gives command her Birds be hamessM : 
Quick as the Word, her ready Maidens run. 
And from the shore of her next milky spring 
Five pair of her immortal Figeons bring. 

67. 

Her Coach was double gilt with that pure Light 
Whose grosser part fills Phcehus* fiioe with glory : 
Not glaring, like his eyes, but Mild and WhiU, 
And shining like its Owner's Virgin-story, 
The Reins were cloath'd in whitest silk, to hold 
Some 'semblance to the Hand which them controU'd. 

6& 
The gentle Birds bow'd down their willing head 
Not to be yoak^d, but adomid by 
The dainty harness : Joy and Triumph spread 
Their wings, who well knew whether they should fly. 
Strait nimble She into her Chariot step'd, 
Which glad and proud to bear Her, upward leap'd. 

69- 

As through the whirling Orbs She fiaster flies, 
The glittering Girdle to the Stars She shows : 
They twinckled strait, asham'd of their frdnt eyes, 
Round all the dazl'd Zodiac which throws 
His spangled Cincture o'r the slippery Spheres 
To keep m order and gird up the Years. 

70. 

Orion's Blush confess'd how much this sight 
Outvy'd the glories which about hfan flow : 
His jridding countenance fell, and to the bright 
Triumphant Apparition did bow ; 

Three times he try'd, and studiously felt 

How to unbuckle his out-shinM Belt, 



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71. 
But mounting to the tovenin Pialaoe. She 
Hastes in to her eatpecting Lord and lays 
Her face and (f^onl upon his footstool : He 
Her curious pains with high approof repays ; 

Yet, on this Ground had thine own Story grown. 

The GirdU would, said He, have fiOrer shown. 

72. 
Then to his royal Cabinet He goes, 
Which Sfirits of gold, and Soub tf Gtms imskrifus ; 
And having from that JUart o/RicMmots drase 
The softest Drops, He in one ynoei twines 

Such Rarities as my tongue cannot tell ; 

But thy dear Soul their ravishmenu shall feel 

73- 

For to the GirdU straitly linking it. 

He deign'd to grace Me who stood wondring by ; 

Take this, said He. and see how it will fit 

Thine and my Psydu's: But be sure to ty 
It on so dose, that by this Toktm She 
May understand how mar She is to Me. 

74- 
The second hour^s scaree entring tinoe I took 
It, and my leave : and here the Pratmt is. 
Come, wipe thine eyes ; a purified look 
Is but a due dd>t where the sight is Blus, 
This said, the Girdle's volume ope he threw, 
Whence a iiiU volley of Lights wiapcm flew. 

75- 
But as the rural iSfattfji, whose oouiser eyes 
Ne'r star'd on other beauteous things than what 
Bcgay the simple fields ; when first he spies 
His Prince's Wardrope ope, quite through is shot 
With vfomdringjkar, and much doubu least it be 
Treason in him such royal sights to see : 

76. 
So mortal Psyckt was disma/d at this 
Immortal Spectacle's first flash : When He 
Cries out, Enor cheau and fi^tt thee thus? 
This Zoiu*s not torrid though it flaming be ; 
Nor sent thy Spouse this Tokem to destroy 
Thine Eye's, but diet them with sparkling Joy. 

77. 
Peed then and feast them here ; whilst I in it 
Interpret this rich dialect to Thee 
Which Marj^s needle hath so feiriy writ. 
And taught dumb Colours eloquent to be. 
These words reliev'd the dasl'd passion 
Of P^kis eyes, and Pkyiax thus begun : 

78- 
See'st thou that Fabric there, which UAs so high 
lu glistering head, and scorns to pay the Sun 



Homage for any beams, since Sanctity 
Flames round about it, and 'twixt every stone 
lies thicker than the Cement? know that this 
Illustrious Pile, the Jnoisk Temple is. 

79. 
Focty-siz yean had nm their race, and spent 
Their own upon HeaVn's ksting Ort>s, before 
This Structure gainM its first complement : 
But here a moment rais'd it, and to more 
Pomp than proud /Herod's Treasury could dress : 
These Stones grew in a ricMor mine than His. 

8o. 
That reverend Smior whose high-miter'd Head 
Pofaiu out his heav'nly Office, is the Priosi. 
Plain in his avrful Countenance thou maist read 
What his Attire proclaims : were He undrest. 
He still with virtues would arraiM be, 
Who now dothes My RoUs with Sanctity. 

8l. 
His left hand on his stalid mouth he lays. 
His right he backward to the Altar stretdies : 
His eyes are full of talk ; his gestures' phrase 
Without a tongue, his Mind's oration Preadies. 
At length that throng of People there, began 
To guess the Stnu, and what befd the man. 

82. 

Whilst on the Incensfr«ltar He did place 

Itt azomatic fuel, and supply 

What Heat or Sweetness there deficient was 

By many a fervent Vow and predoua Sigh ; 
His Qond out-flew the feintix^ Incense smoak. 
And stoutly through Heav'n's highest stories broke. 

83. 

Where as it roll'd, an Angd leaps upon 
Its odorous back, and posteth down to Earth ; 
Hither he ateen his flight ; his station 
He by that Altar takes ; and there breathes forth 
A sweet repayment unto Zaehary 
Of what his Soul had pantedout so high. 



Behold, says he, thy Voms and Prayers are 
Come back to fill thy bosom with success : 
No Mosstngtr am I of fright or fear ; 
Thist Me, and trust thy privilcgM Bliss : 

Thine Heart, so fruitful in sublime Aflection. 

Hath for thy Body earn'd an high Productum. 

85. 
Thy dear Rlisa, who is join'd to Thee 
As near hi Vhtue's as in Wedlock's Tie. 
Shall bear a Son, in whom thine eyes shall see 
The firuit of both those KnoU ; a .Sm so high 
In Heav'n's esteem, that God thinks fit to irame 
His sacred Title ; John must be his Name. 



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51 



86. 

A Name of high Ingredients, God^ and Grace; 

For ne'r was Man so grac'd by God, as He. 

His Life shall justify before the face 

Of all the World this Etymology. 
Needs must that Name infallibU Success 
Assert, where God the Nomenclator is. 

87. 

A Son 0/ smiles a/ul Gladness he shall i»ove. 
Making thine agjhd heart young with Delight 
On his birthday together ^cy and Love 
Shall spring with Him, and take their blessM flight 
To thousand Souls, where they shall sit and tell 
What Hopes, what Wonders in thy /m/amt dwell. 

88. 
When friendliest Stars had their propitious powers 
Join'd in the straitest league of Love, to crown 
With Fortutu's own blest Soul the native hours 
Of noblest Princes ; they were never known 
To dart so much <Akiud Heaven down to earth, 
As forth shall break at His auspidoos Birth. 

89. 

For in his own Creator's mighty Eye, 
(In which the burly bulk of all this World 
Less than the simplest Atom shows, which by 
The feeble Air in scorn about is hurl'd,) 

Great shall thy Son appear ; Let Doubting go, 

Immensity resolves to make him sa 

90. 

For whilst he nestles in the narrow Cell 
Of thine Elisa*s womb, the Spirit ofHeav*u 
(Much vaster than its boundless Realm) shall fill 
His breeding Heart : which, when it once is thriven 
Unto a pitch mature, shall nobly prove 
To Earth, how it by Heav'n alone doth m6ve. 

91. 

No boistrous roaring Wine, or rampant Drink 
Shall his sweet lip deflour : his Cup must be 
Fed on some virgin-fountain's crystal brink, 
To teach his Palate too ^^ginity : 
For in his sacred veins no fire must flow. 
But what Heav'n's Spirit pleaseth there to blow. 

With which brave fire He Israel must refine ; 
Israel, o'rpgrown with rust and filth : and so 
Chastise and cleanse the Way where his divine 
Redeemer means dose after him to go. 

For nobler flames ne*r warm'd Elijahs breast. 

Than in thy Sou's shall make their gaOant nest. 

93. 
So spake the wing*d Ambassadour, t)ut Doutt 
Ran shivering throng^ the Old man's Jeak>us heart : 



Through his uncertain £]re Dismay look'd out ; 
And his sear joiou did too-too nfanbly start 

Thus vain/ptfr forc'd the Priest himself to be 

A sacrifice to Infidelity. 

94- 
And this Reply he sigh'd : DecayM. I 
Alas want blood to paint a Blush at this 
Too worthy News : Can fifty Summers fly 
Back, and with Youth my withered Spirits bless I 
Frost in my veins, and Snow upon my Head 
Bid me akeady write, More than half dead. 

. 95- 

Nor in Elisa doth less Deadness live : 
How then in two such Winters can there grow 
A Spring whose sudden Vigorousness may give 
New Lives to Us, and make them overflow 
Into a third t Sweet Angel, thy strange Word 
May well some Sign to cheer my faith afibrd. 

Sure then thou know'st not Me, the Angel cries ; 
Wer't thou aware that Gahriel I am, 
Who in the Presence-chamber of the skies 
Attend on God and his Almighty Lamb; 

From purest Verity s eternal Home 

Thou would'st not dare to dream that fraud could 
come. 

97. 
Yet shalt thou have a Sign ; and I will fast 
Seal't on thy £dthless Tongue which askM it. 
Mute shall that Tongue remain, until thou hast 
Seen what thou would'st not credit : Then I 'I let 

The Pris'ner loose again, that it may sing 

A Benedictus to Its gracious King. 

98. 

That stiptic Word fiill in the Priest's fece flew. 

And &stned mystic chains upon his Tongue. 

He strait rejoyc'd to fed his Censure true ; 

And with his eyes and heart forestalled his Song. 
He thinks and looks his earnest Hymn, and pays 
For his dumb Punishment, his silent Praise. 

99. 

But now observe that sober Matron there. 
Through whose wdl-poisM eyes sage Chastity 
Her reverend prospect takes : Lo how the dear 
And trusty Promise in her Womb grows high ; 
Which by still swelling tadtiy confesses 
The same the Muteness of her Spouu ezpratses. 
100. 
Mark that most humbly-genUe Stranger come 
To see her pregnant Cosen : Her array 
Is plain and poor ; her Looks still seem at home. 
So dofidy doyster'd in thdr veil are they : 
Spectators were so much her Dread, that she 
EVn in this Girdle would not viewM be. 



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lOI. 



She would not ▼iewM be, yet shines more bright 
Than all the rest, because herself she douds. 
So the most pure and star-like Hypocrite 
Of all the Tribe of sparks, is that which shrowds 
Its bashAiU Lustre in th' unlikely nest 
Of the cold flint's ignoble swarthy breast. 

I02. 

Tis She whose Handy-work the GirdU is» 

And who upon herself least cost bestows ; 

SJU, whose saimU with rayishment did seise 

£Msa*s heart. See how her arms she throws 
In wide astonishment ; how fain would those 
Pearls which have op'd her mouth, her words disclose ; 

103. 
All Glories whidi oar/tmait Trike have crown'd, 
Cry'd she, shrink in their oonquer'd eyes, to see 
Those brighter Blessings which in TJUe abound, 
Thou Miracle of Virgin-pregnancy. 
All Happiness dwells in thy God; and ffe 
Takes up his mansion now in chosen TAee. 

104. 
For when thy SalutaHcn through mine ear 
Shed Heav'n into my heart ; the Babe which lay 
Listning within me, prov'd that he did hear, 
And ken the language too : nor would he stay 
To act his triumph in some larger room. 
But, for his dandng-house, leap'd in my womb. 

105. 
He by thy voice well knew that WORD which was 
Within, and finding now his Lord so near. 
Thought it high time to be at work, and as 
He might, begin his active Office here : 

A truey&ri^rvMMr, who doth leap unborn ; 

Unto his Lords strange Day, a taonderoms Mom, 

106. 
See'st thou that knot of huisy Jewels there. 
Whose cfaeerly Looks some happy News proclaim ? 
The Infants bom, and those his Kinsfolks are. 
At Circumcision's Rites : but for his Nana 

A kind Dispute makes their loves disgree ; 

All these will have it none but Zackary, 

107. 

His holy yiitker's Name wiU sit most fiur 

Upon the Son, say they, who now doth rise 

The long-expected and miraculous Heir. 

From whom may flow a Brood of Zaeharies. 
The Eagle's Progeny must needs inherit 
As well their father's princely Name, as Spirit. 

108. 
O no I the Mother cries, mis-call him not ; 
His Name, before himself, conceivM was, 



Surdy wise Hea^n best understandeth what 
Title will fit iu Gifts. Might I the case 
Resolve, my honor'd Spouse's Name alone 
I vrould prefer ; but Heof/n hath chosen John. 

109. 
So hot the kind Contention grew, that now 
To ZacAarie's decision they run. 
See where He writes : that golden leaf doth show 
The Oracle's Decree : His Name is John, 

In what fidr equipage those Letters stand ! 

For Marias finger here did guide his hand. 

iia 

No sooner had his pen drop'd that sweet Name, 
But his long-frosen Tongue again was thawn : 
For Gabriel (though undiscemM) came 
To mdt the chain which he on it had thrown. 
The Captive, glad of this Releasment, dances. 
And with inspirM Lays his Joys advances. 

IIL 

Behold his friends in that admiring Throng. 

Whose eys and hands Amatement lifts so high. 

To see at length his dead and buried Tongue 

Revive, and yidd a vocal Progeny 
Of holy Praise : thus strangdy answeriug 
That Birth which from his cold dry body sprung. 

112. 
That featherM and party-«olored Thing 
Who to her puffing mouth a Thimp doth set, 
And hastens hence with ready-stretchM wing. 
Is noble/MM/ which posteth to transmit 
These Mirades in such a sound aa may 
Through every ear and heart command its way. 

113. 

Look where she's perdi'd now upon yonder Hill. 

And on that advantageous Theatre 

Doth all the Quarters oijndea fill 

With stxanger News than ever thundred there. 
Thus Jokn, who came to be a Voice, doth in 
Fame's and his Father's Tongue, his Cry begin. 

114. 
But there the Scene is chang'd, where Desolation 
Was sole Inhabitant, until that one 
Poor Ermite chose his tamest habitation 
Amidst ite V^dness : That plain Thing is John, 
'Tis strange how Mary taught such Gems to seem 
So vile a garb, as here bedoudeth him. 

lis. 

That Cincture stands but for a thong of Leather, 
That Vestiment for a coat of Camd's Hair : 
The sum of all his Wardrobe was no other 
But what upon his simple sdf he bare; 
No Riches wiU I own, said noble He, 
But what may make me rich in Poverty. 



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ii6. 

I know my Dust ; nor shall my flesh and Blood 
Flatter my heart into forgetiulness. 

That they are sentenced to become the food 
Of Patriiaction : and why should I dress 

Corruption's seeds in BeauHis livery. 

And be a painted Tomb before I dy? 

117. 

I I rob no Ermyn of his dainty skin 

To make mine own grow proud : No cloth of gold 
To me shall dangerous emulation win : 
I li?e to live ; I live not to be sold : 

And fine enough this Clod of mine shall be 

In Weeds which best will suit Humility, 

118. 
Let Scarlet's Blush the guilty Court attend. 
Let wanton Silk smile on the Gallant's back, 
Let pore and snowy-countnanc'd Linen lend 
lu own to those who otktr Whiteness lack : 
My Bravery must be, an Eye to please 
Which reads no beauty in such Joys as these. 

119. 
Let ^;mAj feuhion-mongers day by day 
Misshape themselves, and vex their giddy Brain 
About some upstart Cut or Garb, which they 
Were never yet disfigur'd with : in vain 
Striving to catch tht/asMiom, which is still 
Like Photbds face, but one day at the fiiU. 

120. 
ykyfaskiom constant as my Nature is. 
Which taught me it : Nor is the Sun midway 
His race e'r I have travell'd through my Dress. 
The same East op's mine eyes, which op's the Day ; 

And I'm as soon attir'd as wak'd, who ne'r 

Do any other but my Bed-doths wear. 

121. 
This hairy Covering is my only Bed, 
My shirt, my doke, my gown, my every-thing. 
When over it these several Names I read, 
His furniture I well can spare the King. 

The tumult of whose store yeilds no supply 

So fully fit, as my Epitomy. 

122. 
Marie now that bubling Crystal. Psyche, there ; 
That spring 's the living Cellar of the Saint: 
Thence do's he draw his tame and virgin beer. 
And makes his Blood with those cool streams acquaint : 

Cool streams indeed ; yet such as best agree 

With fervent flames of noblest Piety. 

123. 
No Kitcfain he erecu, to be the shop 
Wherein to foige his Bellie's ammunition : 



His Table 's full as cheap as is his cup, 

And no less stor'd with fountains of provision ; 

This Region doth him his Cat^ afford. 

And even his Habitation is his Beard, 

124. 

His common Diet those poor Locusts are ; 

And when he feasts, he lifts but up his head. 

And strait those courteous Ttaes, to mend his fare. 

Into his Mouth sincerest honey shed. 
Nor turns he down that Mouth, until! it has 
Play'd for its sweet feast by a sweeter Grace. 

125. 

Here vnth himself he do's converse: a rare 

And painfta thing, when Men in Presses dwell ; 

Where whilst on those who crow'd them, still they stare, 

Unhappy they, alas, though too-too well 
Skilled in all their Neighbors, never come 
To be acquainted with themselves at home. 

126. 
The rest of his Acquaintance dwelt on high. 
Beyond his eye's reach, but within his heart's : 
For with what speed brave Lightnings downward fly, 
Through every stage of heav'n, this upward darts : 

Nor will its sprightful journey bounded be 
' By any Rampart but Immensity, 

127. 

At God it aims, nor ever fiails to hit 

lu blessed mark, whilst on strong Prayer's wings. 

Or CoHtemplaiion's, it steers its flight : 

And rank'd above with Joyous Angels sings. 
Admires, adores, and studies to foiget 
There is a Breast below which wanteth it 

128. 

How often has his fainting Body made 

Complaint of his injurious Piety/ 

How often has it cry'd, I am betray'd ; 

My life and spiiiu all away do fly 
And smile in Heav'n, whilst I below am left 
To Uve this Death, of death and life bereft. 

129. 
He fetch'd no bold Materials from the deep 
Bowds of any Marble Mine, to raise 
A daring Fabric which might scorn the steep 
Torrent of headlong Time / as if his Days 

And years had been his own, and he might here 

Lord of his life for ever domineer. 

He knew the least Blast's indignation might 

His brittle Dust and Ashes blow away : 

He knew most certain Death's uncertain Night 

Lurk'd in the bosom of his vital Day : 
He knew that any House would serve him, who 
Look'd for no Home so long 's he dwelt Below. 



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131. 



That Cave his Palace was, both safe and strong, 
Because not kept b j jealous Door nor Bar : 
Those Groves his Gardens, where he walk'd among 
Tht famify ofDrtadt yet knew no fear: 
For/wr'x wUd Raahn is not the Wilderness, 
But that foul Breast where Guilt the dweller is. 

132. 
Those Bears, those Boars, those Wolves, whose ireliil 

fieuae 
Strikes terror into other Mortal Eyes. 
With friendly Mildness upon him did gase. 
As on sweet Adam in calm Paradise. 
They slander'd are with savageness ; no spleen 
They bear to Man, but to Man's poison. Sin, 

So wild, so black, and so mis-shap'd a Beast 

Is Sim, that other Monsters it defy 

As a more Monstrous thing than they, and cast 

About how to revenge it : But the eye 
And Port of Purity so reverend are. 
That BeasU most fearM wait on it with fear. 

134. 

The beams of this Angelic Life at last 
Broke out, and summoned in new Admiration ; 
For Man at length, that dulUr, ruder Beast, 
Is by these Brutes convinc'd to imitation. 

Behold that thronging Rout which hither flies ; 

See how they stare, and scarce believe their Eys. 

135. 
These Deserts nothing less than desert seem, 
Being crowded from themselves, and now become 
Juries thick Towns, and fair Jerusalem, 
Which hither have remov'd their populous Home. 
What now has John lost by his private Cell, 
To which whole Towns and Cities flock to dwell ? 

136. 

Thus generous Honor righteously disdains 
Ev'n to be touched by th' high-panting reach 
Of bold Amdition : but through hills and plains, 
And dens and caves, and Deserts' hunts, to catch 
The moditA fugitive, whom Worth doth hurry 
From Worth's Reward, and makes afraid of Glory. 

137. 
His Auditory now so ample grown. 
The noble Ermite is resolv'd to Preach : 
Behold, says he. that promis'd Ghrie's Dawn, 
(Which to behold, the Patriarchs did reach 

Their necks and eyes through many a shady thing) 

In your horixon now begins to spring. 

138. 
O fail ye not to meet his gracious Beams 
With undefilM hearts ; for such is He; 



And will Baptine you with refined streams 
Of searching fire, that you may Metal be 
Of pure alloy, and, signM with his face 
And Motto, through his Realm for current pass. 

139- 
Let not that Power of Spots and Blots, which in 
Your Souls now reigns, make you despair to be 
Freed from the nasty bondage of your Sin, 
For you aforehand shall be Wasb'd by me : 
My water for his fire the way prqMures, 
As for my water must your hearty Tears. 

140. 
Observ'st thou. Psyche, how that silver stream 
Its limpid self doth through the Girdle wind : 
This Jordan is. and there the People seem 
At busy crowding strife who first ^ould find 
A better Baptism in those floods, which may 
Their fruitless LegcU Washings wash away. 

/ 141. 

' But mark that grateful ffe: how sweet his eye. 
How delicate and how divine his face 
Embellish'd with heart-conquering Majesty 1 
Were*t thou to choose thy Spouse, wouldst thou no 
place 
Thy soul to Him ? Tis He: O no. it is 
As much of Him as Jewels can express. 

142. 
To be BaptisM, bat not deans'd, comes He, 
Who is more spotless than that living Ught 
Which gilds the crest of Heav'n's sublimity : 
He comes, by being washM to wash white 
Baptism itself, that it henceforth from Him 
And his pure Touch. With Purity may swim. 

143. 
As when amongst a gross ignoble 6rowd 
Of flints and pebbles and such earth-bred stones 
An heaven-descended Diamond strives to shroud 
Its luster's brave ejaculations ; 

Although it 'scapes the test of vulgar eyes. 

The wiser lewelier the Gem descriea : 

144. 
So most Judicious John's desoeming eye 
This Stranger's shy but noble splendor read. 
Besides, when others to their Baptism by 
A penitent Confession pr^cM, 

He wav'd that useless Circumstance, and so 

Himself conoeal'd, yet intimated too. 

145. 

See how Suspense astounds the Baptist: for 
The Promis'd sign his Master to descry 
AppearM not : this made his just Demur 
Dispute the case, and resolutely cry. 

If thou art spotless, fitter 'tis for me 

Who sinful am, to be baptis'd by thee. 



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146. 
But when bis Lord repljr'd. For onoe let me 
Prevail, since thus alone we must fulfil 
The sum of righteousness ; amUgnous He 
Felt sacred Aw surprise his trembling Will : 
He mus'd. and guess*d, and hoveiid about 
The glimmering Tkuth with many a yielding thought. 

147. 
Which Jesms seeing. He upon him threw 
The urgent yoak of an express Injunction ; 
Whose virtue forthwith eflfcacious grew, 
And made the meek Saint bow to his high function. 
Cast but thine eye a little up the stream. 
Wading in Crystal there thou seest Tkem, 

148. 
Old Jordan smil'd, receiving such high Play 
For those small pains 6bedient he had spent 
Making his water's guard the diyM wvf 
Through wonders when to Canaan Isra*l went 
Nor do's he envy now PacMuif streams 
Or eastern flouds, whose paths are paVd with Oems. 

149^ 
The waves came crowding one upon another 
To their fiur Z^i^ their chaste sahite to give : 
Each one did chide and justle back his brother. 
And with laborious foaming murmur strive 
To kiss those Feet, and so more spotless grow, 
Than from itt viigin spring it first did flow. 

15a 

But those most happy Drops the BapHsiKiux 

On Lifis pure head, into the joyless Sta 

Which borroweth from D^atk itt stile, made haste, 

And soon ooniuted that sad Heraldry : 
The Deep that day reviv'd, and dapt his hands, 
And roU'd his smiles about his wondring strands. 

151. 

See there thy Sponsi is on the bank, and more 
Than Heav'n flown down and pitcb'd upon his head : 
That snowy Dove which perchM heretofore 
High on the alMUustrtous Throne of God^ 
Hath chose this seat, nor thinks it a Descent 
On sudi high terms to leave the Firmament. 

152. 
For wheresoever Jtsus is, although 
In the prolbundest sink of black Disgract^ 
Still Glory triumphs in his soveraign brow. 
Still Mtgtsty holds iu imperial place 

In the bright Oifo of his a]]4ove]y Eye ; 

Still most depressM He remahu Mast High, 

153- 
And Htav'n weU-witness'd this strangje truth* which in 
That wondrous imttot op'd iu nrauth apd cry'd. 



This is my Darting San ^ in whom do shine 
All my Joy's Jewels. O how far and wide 
That Voice did fly, on which each Wind gat hold, 
And round about the World the Wonder told. 

154. 
Fhim hence to Court the valiant Baptist goes, 
Where Lusty sins no less than Ngridnign : 
Meek Sanctity had aim'd him well with those 
Proud Enemies a combat to maintain. 
Ne toko dares nothing but his Maker fear. 
Against all Monsters may proclaim a War, 

155- 

Behold how Pomp besott great Herod there : 

O what imposthumes of fond Majesty 

Pride pufis into his fiace ! Durst there appear 

A Censor now a just Truth to apply 
Home to the King, and tell him that his eyes 
Should rather swell with Tears, his breast with Sighs I 

156. 

Yes, there the Heav'n-embravM Preacher is, 

Who therefore in strong pity melts to see 

A Prince made Subject to vile wickedness. 

Great Sir, the Match unlawful is, cries he : 
O far be it from Kings to break the Law, 
For whose defence so strong their Scepters grow. 

157. 
Since to thine own Commands, jttst duty Thou 
Ezpectest from thy Subjectt ; let thy neck 
Not scorn to thine own Maker's yoke to bow. 
The Precedent may dangerous prove, and wrack 
Thy throne and kingdom, if thy People read 
Hi^ust Rebellion's Lesson in their Head. 

158. 
Thy Brother's Wife to Him as near is ty'd 
As He hunself ; O tear him not in sunder : 
You murder him alive when you divide 
His Dearest Unity : The worst of Plunder 

Is Mercy, if compar'd with this, which doth 

By tearing oflf one half, unravel both. 

159- 
Live, live O King, and flourish ; live for ever ; 
Yet not for works of Deatk, but Actt of Lift. 
Death's proper hateful oflSce 'tis to sever 
The loving Husband from his lawful Wife : 

But He his wrath as yet deferrM hath ; 

O why wilt Thou more cniel be than Death/ 

160. 

God who made this enclosure, hedging Her 

In to her Philip, still hath left to Thee 

And thy free choice, an open Champain, where 

Millions of sweet and virgin Beauties be. 
Adorn thy bed with any one beside, 
Only tJfySrothef's mmftnotb$ % Bride. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



CANTO III. 



i6i. 

Must nott ih' Adulteress cry'd (for she was by) 
Whether is Hirod, or that YauMglimg, King ? 
And shall the Acts of awful Majesty 
Be flouted by this upstart pratling Thing? 
My bodkin bums his traytorous tongue to bore, 
And make it sure for preaching Me a Whore, 

162. 
Be thou content my Dear, the King replies. 
Strait I '1 revenge thy Wrong, for 'tis mine own. 
Rebellion's fiery Boils may likelier rise 
From his invenom'd Words against my Crown, 
Than from our spotless Match ; which Heav'n long 

bless i 
Drag him to Prison, he shall smart for this. 

(Unhappy Truth, how gains ysinjiatiery 

More grace and freedom in the Court than Thou, 

Who mightst secure and prosper Migesty, 

Whilst that doth Lies, and Traps, and Poisons strew 1 

Who though thou meek and poor and naked art, 

Yet bear'st a valiant and loyall heart i) 

164. 
Deep in the City's bottom sunk there was 
A Goal, where Darhness dwelt and Desolatum : 
Through all the Town's proud Taunts inforc'd to pass, 
In glorious patience and meek exultation : 
The Saiut is thither hurried, and down 
Into the miry dungeon headlong thrown. 

So when unworthy Chance doth prostitute 

Some noble Jewel unto sordid Swine, 

The senseless Beasts unable to compute 

Their Prise's worth, or read those beams which shine 

A^th loye-commanding beauty, rudely tread 

Into the vilest dirt its precious head. 

166. 

These rude dead walls, with stones almost as hard 

As that which for a heart did serve the King, 

The Pris'ner up in a uew desari barr'd : 

Yet his free Contemplation stUl did bring 
Heav'n's Latitude into those straits, and swell 
With Angels and with God that laser Hell. 

167. 

This is his noble Company, and He 

More liberty doth in his Goal enjoy, 

Than foolish Herod, though his Tetrarchy 

Op's to his loosest Lusts so wide a way. 
Vice is the foulest Prison, and in this 
Not John, but Htrod the close Pris'ner is. 

168. 
Yet Herod thinks not so : (what pity 'tis 
Vain Thought and Pamcy thus the scale should sway. 



And ponderous Reason's sober solidness 

Like light and idle froth be cast away I) 
For this smart Preacher thus imprison'd. He 
Judges himself, and all his Pleasures free. 

169. 

And in that freedom means to celebrate 
That Day which gave him welcome from the womb ; 
To crown which Ceremony with bright state, 
His glittering Nobles all to Court must come. 
That Men might in the splendor of eadi Guest 
Read his magnificence who makes the Feast. 

170. 
Abundant choice of every lusty Beast 
Was hither brought : No Bird so dear and rare. 
But it was fetchM from iu highest Nest 
To build m some quaint py or platter here. 
To Hoah's Ark scarce came a thicker Croud 
For life, than to be slain there hither flow'd. 

171. 

The Ocean too streams in to fill this brim 

Of more than spring-tide superfluity : 

Laiige shoals of wanton fishes here must swim 

In aromatic ponds of spioery ; 
That Herod's ominous Birtk^Day forth may bring 
A needless Death to every kind of thing. 

172. 

AmhiHon was chief steward of the Feast ; 

Both Cook and Cater liquorish Luxury; 

Only LmsI mix'd the gallant sauce, and drest 

The choice inflaming Dainties of the Sea. 
Lo there the King is with his Nobles set. 
And all the crouded Table smoaks with meat. 

173. 

Intesnperance attended on the board. 

And crown'd with sparkling Wine each foaming Cup. 

The Kings health first went round, which every Lord 

Drowning his own in it, basts to drink up ; 
And loudly prajrs. His life as full may be 
Of years, as they the Board of dishes see. 

174. 

Next to the Queen their ranting homage they 

All in a like drink-ofiering sacrifice, 

And heap upon her second Nuptial day 

The garlands of thdr courtliest flatteries ; 
Darting on Philip scorn's ignoble Wit, 
Whom as the Married Widdower they twit. 

175. 

Then wild with proud excess, bowl alter bowl 

Are to ih.^ female Idols pourM down. 

So monstrous were those Draughts, that Bacchus* soul 

Had now all theirs subdu'd. and King was grown 
Of them and of their Prince ; who belching cries. 
Enough of this feast ; now let's feed our eys. 



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CANTO III. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



57 



176. 

For he the young Htrodias had spy'd ; 

Whose laoe no sooner dawnM hi the Hall, 

But an inohanting meretridons Tide 

Of sw€tis and Greets overflows them alL 
Doubled her Looks' and Dresses' beauties be, 
Because her fond Spectators double see. 

177. 

No Syrm ever on the watry stage 

Did act so /trwr, afcUst but lovely part, 

The gasing cardess Seaman to engage 

In the delicious shipwrack of his heart : 
Nor e'r was dangerous Sea so deep and wide 
As in her narrow breast this Nyw^h did hide. 

178. 
Bdiokl hir there : What studiM neglect 
Upon her shoulders poors her tresses down 1 
How is her breast with Gems' alhirements deckt, 
Yet wins more eys and wishes by its own ; 
Whose speaking nakedw^^ itseff commends, 
And lustful Fancies to what 's cover'd sends. 

179. 
Yea ev'n her quaint Attire all thin and light 
With gorgeous hypocrisy doth lay 
More open what it would deny the sight. 
And whilst it stops, invites into the way. 
About she swims ; and hf a courtly Dance 
Her other beauties' value doth enhance. 

180. 

All Eyes and Hearts trip alter Her, as she 

About the Hall her graoefol motions measures : 

No nunble Turn can in the Galiard be. 

But HtrotTs brains turn too : who by these pleasures 
Again seems drmnk, and to his surfeit doth 
Give ease hf vomiting Y^pioUed Oath, 

181. 
By heav'n and my own Majesty, he cries. 
This Dance, sweet Daughter, must not want reward : 
For never Vtnms traversed the skies. 
With a more Soul-commanding Galiard. 
Let thy Demand be high ; for though it be 
Half of my Realm, 'tis wholly due to Thee. 

182. 
A cunning Bhish hi her well-tutor'd fiwe 
This mighty Promise kindled : to the ground 
Three times she bows, and with a modest grace 
Minces her spruce retreat, that she might sound 
Her Mother's counsels, in whose joyfiill ear 
She chirps the &vor Herod offer'd her. 

183. 

The salvage Queen, whose thirst not all the Wines 
At that great Feast could quench, unless they were 

46 



Brew'd with the richer blood of Ji^n, inclines 
Her Daughter to request this boon for her. 
I ne'r shall think, said she, that Herod is 
Mine, or his Kingdom* s H§ad, whilst John wears his. 

184. 
Thou knowst my Wrongs, and with what pain I wear 
The Name of Wkore his Preachment on me pinn'd : 
Help then my righteous vengeance on, and tear 
Away this Grief which knaws thy Mother's mind. 
This was enough : back flies the Damsel, and 
Thus sweetens o'r her barbarous Demand : 

185. 

As long as Heav'n's great UTingt may Herod rdgn ; 
And blessM be this undeservM Day 
Wherein thine Handmaid doth such fovor gain, 
That half thy Kingdom shall not say me Nay ; 
For real is thy royal Word : But why 
Should a poor Maid's ambidon tow^r so high ? 

186. 

That mighty Promise well became the King, 
That like thy self thy Bounty might appear. 
But Heav'n forisid that I so vile a Thing, 
Thy Scepter's glories should m sunder tear. 

And break mine arm with HaJ/of that Command 

Whose Total is too little for thy Hand. 

187. 
A slender Gift more equal Pay will be 
To my Desert ; Grant me but my just will 
Over one wretched H^^^nw which knaweth thee 
And thy whole Stock: So shall the Khig fulfil 
His royal Word : I only crave His head 
Whose Tongue deflour'd your and my Mother's Bed. 

188. 
But at this impudently-me^ Request 
Strait, startled Herod from the Table flings ; 
His locks and beard he tears, he beats his breast, 
His teeth he gnashes and his hands he wrings ; 
He stares, he sighs, he weeps, and now seems more 
With sorrow drunken, than with Whie before. 

189. 
Alas, alas, he cries, what have I done 1 
O that my Kingdom might my Word recall 1 
How shall I help thee now, unhappy John, 
Who in my Promise preach'd thy Funeral! 
As thee thy careless Tongue a Prls'ner made, 
So my rash lips have thee to death betray'd. 

19a 
O that to day my Unrds had not been here 
The solemn Witnesses of my great Voml 
Must Death intrude, and his black Warrant bear 
Date, on my sadly-joyous Birthday f How 
Shall I unsnarle my Promise, and contrive 
That both my Honor and the Saint may live ! 

H 



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CANTO III. 



191. 

Both cannot Ihre ; O that poor Htrodwfxt 

Somt/rivaii Man, that ao he might be tree 

Of his Re^mUt But Primed s homers art 

TJki P9opUs too : and by Community 
The guiltless Body wonld be pojiuM, 
Should I my self foiBwear who am their Htad, 

192. 

Let my sad shipwrsck steer you to the bay 
OicauHom safety: Ne'r let Mirth and VHne 
Your Tongues unbridle, and such fetters lay 
On your best freedom as are thrown on mine. 
Enskr'd am I, though King, by one wild Word, 
And my own Promise is my cruel Lord. 

193. 
A Lord which forces me to bath my sword 
Deep in the veins of my most choice Delight : 
What glimpse can all my Kingdom me afford 
Of vrorthy Joy, if my own Smtemct fight 
Against my heart's best Wish ; if I alone 
Must murdar what I honor, kofy Jekm t 

194. 
And most yokm die? bear witness all how loth 
This fiual Word falls from my Ibrokl Up, 
To recompenoe the too too hasty Oath 
Which from Imprmdemu, not from Me did slip. 

Then take his Hmd: Yet never say that I 

Issu'd this Warrant, but NeassUy. 

195. 
Thus strove the Tyrant by a comdy Ly 
The visage of his hideous Hate to paiM, 
Least in the Damutts Dance his Policy 
Might seem to have been mask'd against the Saimt. 

Thus dreads He his unlawfU Vow to break. 

But fears not Last with gmiUlm Btood to back. 

196. 

'Twas plain, YiiM finite though outrageous Vow 
Did prostitute but half his Realms : and why 
Must then the bloody Hypocrite bestow 
More than the whole f what Prodigality 
Is this, mad Herod f for Johm's Head akme 
Is worth more than thy Kingdom, or thine own. 

197. 
Lo there the last Dish of great Herod s Feast, 
The Martyr's &ir Head in a Chaiger lay'd : 
He smiles within, though douds his face o'r-cast, 
And feeds his Soul on it, but that proud Maid 
Knowing her Mother by this Death would live. 
In triumph takes the Dish, and takes her leave. 

198. 

The royal Beldamu in suspense did wait 
To reap her sprightfiil stratagem's event : 



And seeing now the bloody Prtsemi, strait 
Grown young with salvage joy, her \i^ Content 
She to her 4ft» v^«g Tyi^g fatq* signifies. 
In her own tripping and lascivious guise. 

199- 

Then like a fell she-Bear, whose kmg-widi'd Prey 
Is fidl'n at last into her hungiy paws : 
She tean the ncred Lips and rends a way 
Unto the reverend Toi^gue; which out she draws. 
And with most peevish Wounds and soonful Jests 
Her wom§amish Revemjgi upon it feasts. 

But mark that Convoy of illustrious Light 
Which makes from this low World such joyful haste : 
The better Part ofjohm there takes iu flight 
Unto a greater KiMifs than Herod s feast. 
Being from this Earth, that Goal, his Body,~three 
Prisons to heav'nly Him,— «t once set free. 

301. 
The Prophets and the Patriarchs gave way. 
When they this greater Saint approaching saw ; 
Who now at anchor lies in BUsse*s Bay, 
Far from those stormu he grappled with bdow ; 
And sweetlier rests in Abraham's bosom, than 
In that adulterous Kin^s the lustful Qmeen, 

^ 202, 

^ This is the 5Aiy7 which the KMjM'^tfa^r 
Hath round about thy Girdle made to live : 
Yet lives it not, oomparfcd with this other 
Inunortal yewel, whk:h thy Sponse did give 
To crown the rest, and tie up all the story 
In one divine Bpitomu of Glory, 

303. 
Observe it well : but never let thy Tongue 
Presume that any Eloquence's Dress 
Can suit its beauties ; which no Seraph*s song 
With due and equal sweetness can express. 

The Angel here, his stately Lecture done, 

Bitpected Psyches appcobatton. 

304. 
She, 'twist Amaacmept and DeUght divided, 
Perusid all the strange ImJbroidery: 
But when to that last Gem her eye she guided, 
Excessive Joys so swell'd her soul, that she 
Runs over with deUdous tears, and cries. 
Come Phylax, come, gird mo with Paradise. 

205. 
Content, said He, but then be sure to shrink 
Your /n;^ self 9\one within your self : 
Severdy strait 's the Girdle; never think 
That any snpemumerazy Pdf 
Can find a room in this rich mansion, where 
The outward Walls of solid Jewels are. 



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CANTO III^ 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



59 



3o6. 

This said ; before her self was well aware. 
He nimbly badding it about her heart, 
Press'd forth this shrill Complaint : O P^lax spare 
My squeesM Soul, least from her self she start. 
Loose, loose the BacUe I if the time be oome 
That I must die. at least afford me room. 

207. 
^Mttst I be girt to death, and not ha^e space 
To fetdi one parting sigh before I die? 
O me 1 whose sins have made my Spouu imbrsoe 
Me with imbmyder'd tortures; so that I 
The Riddle of unhappy Maidtms, go 
In travd with more than a Mother's Woe. 

208. 
And so she did indeed : Such matrhles^ Throws 
And Fangs did stfaig her in her straitned heart ; 
At length her Grief she bringeth forth, and shows 
Her wondering self the reason of her smart. 

Whilst from her labouring breast she breaking sees 

A ^*wir*J«^* Lump of foul Deformities. 

309. 
Abortive Bmkryoi, unformM Lmst, 
PinfiBathcred Faueies, and half-shap'd Disirts, 
Dim dawns oi/imdness, doubtful seeds of Rust, 
(Sinmiering embers of corruptive Fires t 
Scarce sometkiug, and yet more than nothing was 
^, That mystic Chaos , that dead-living Mass, 

2x0. 
O how tormenting is the Parturition 
Of tender souls, when they unload themsdves 
Of their blind night-ooncdv'd brats of Perdition ! 
O how the peevish and reluctant elves 
(Mad with their own birth,) vipennisty contend 
The worried bowels of the heart to rend I 

211. 

This maktB/ainttJbolish, Mortals oft prefer 
The sad Reversion of eternal Pain, 
Before this Conflict's pangs: So they may here 
A quiet truce with thiar soft sins maintain ; 
They are content, though Hell must with their Grave 
Set ope its mouth, and them as sure receive. 

212. 

O Utter pleasantness oi present Base, 

Whidi m thy bait Death's sharpest hook dost lude : 

The most prodigious &tal Witcheries 

Are harmless Joys to thee, who from the wide 
Expansions of eternal Bliss canst Man 
Seduce by rotten Jof% short flattering Span 1 

Psyche ddiver'd of that monstrous Birth, 
Fhids her strict Girdle fit and easy grown. 



Affordmg room for all the Train of Mirth 
With which her bosom now was overflown : 

She view'd the Newborn Heap, and viewing smil'd 

Not out of love, but hate unto the Child. 
214. 
As one from blind Cimmeria newly come, 
Beyond his own ambition, into 
Arabians WessM fields, and meeting room 
Both for his eyes and joys ; doth wondring go 

Through those spice-breathing paths, and thinks that 
he 

Doth now no less begin to Uve than See : 

215. 

So oveijoyM she admired now 

The glorious Day new-risen in her breast. 

Where carnal Clouds before would not allow 

A constant beam to dwell ; but overcast 
Her soul's fiace with so gross a mist, that she 
Nor Heav'n, nor what way led to it could see. 

216. 
Her heart dear'd up, for fairer than the face 
Of fresh Aurora wash'd in eastern streams : 
Unspotted Thoughts flock'd in to take their place 
In her pure bosom, which a garden seems 
Of Lilies planted on warm beds of Snow, 
Through which Gods Spirit doth gales of odours 
blow. 

217. 
All sublunary sweets she has foigot. 
Nor thinks this hitter World can breed such things. 
All Beauties to her eye are but one Blot : 
All Bees to her are nothing else but stings : 
All Loves are HaU : all Dalliance, Vexation : 
AU Blandishments, but Poison in the fashion. 

218. 
For by this Girdle she His Pris'ner is 
In whose alone the Name of Love she reads. 
Whilst in the Languishments of softest Bliss 
On dainty Torments her Delights she feeds ; 
Crying with mighty sighs, O Jesu when 
Shall I have liVd this Death, and Life begin t 

219. 

What further business have I here below 

In this vain World, whose joys I relish not ! 

Who is the Conqueror of my heart, but Thou? 

And since thy Love this victory hath got. 
Why must thy Captive not permitted be 
To wait on thy triumphant Coach and Thee? 

22a 
Though of thy Royal Scorn I worthy be. 
Yet why wilt Thou thine own choice disallow ? 
If I had still neglected been by Thee, 
This Body had not seem'd my Dungeon now : 
But why 's this Tast o/Hetn/n unto me deign'd, 
If still to wreUhedHell I must be diain*d? 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO III. 



321. 

To wretched HM: for such is Barth to me ; 

And so would Httn^n be too, wer't Thou not there. 

But to the gloomy Realm of Misery 

Shouldst Thon remove thy Throne, I ne'r should dare 
To any higher Paradise aspire, 
Than what is planted in th' infernal fire. 

222. 
O that some courteous Turtle me would lend 
Her feather'd Oars, that I my soul might row 
Up to the Pari of my Desires, and blend 
It with the Tide of Miss which there doth flow I 
I never thought that Earth so low did ly, 
Or that the Heav'n till now was half so high. 

223. 

why art Thou so lovely, if poor I 

Must still live Exile from thy dearest Eyes I 
This Tohm, Jesu, makes me loader cry 
For Thte thy self, the £ar more pretious Prise. 
O what will thy Supreme Imbraces be 
If this small Cincture thus have ravish'd me 1 

224. 

1 ravish'd am, and from Lusfs swarthy flame 
For ever by this blessM Rape set free ; 



And yet by stronger Ardor spurrM am 
To be reveng'd on thy dear Love and Thee : 
If I may be but thy domestic slave, 
I of my Conqueror my Revenge shall have. 

225. 
I yield. I yield, great Lard: Why must thy Dart 
Be always killing Me, yet never slay 
My ever-dying still-surviving Heart? 
Why must thy fiimaoe with my Torment play, 

And bum, but not consume? O why, why must 

I be no Mortal who am fragile Dust t 

226. 

O cruel Absence! ne'r una present Hell 

So true as thou unto its dismal Name ! 

O torturing Hope^ which only dost reveal 

A tempting glimpse of Light, but hid'st the flame 
That so the sweetly-cheated Eye may be 
Assur'd by that short sight, she doth not see, 

227. 
Iniokrahh Jeys, why smart you so ? 
What means this baxbarotis Rack of sweet Desires t 
What makes my Tears so kindly-salvage now 
As not to quench, but feed and mock my Fires t 
Dear Girdle help 1 should'st heav'nly Thou be slack, 
Soon would my overstretchM heart-strings crack. 



NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Stanza c, L 6, ' broach' d* = pierced or tapped, and 
made to now out—as wine from a cask. St. 6. 1. 6, 



' belhing ' = belchmg. 
dress. St. zx, L 3, 



St. 10, 1. s, • Tire ' = head- 
• dint ' = stroke. St. la. 1. 6, 



' Mother^hells' = mother-of-pearL St ao. 1. 6, *spriM^ 
fur = spright-fuU or sprite-full, i.e. spirit-frill? Cf st 
198, L a. St 38. 1. I, * Twist* ^ cord : 1. a, *sportfuV 
ss sport-fiill, fiili-of-sport. St. 99, 1. 6, 'expires' = op- 
posite to ' inspire '— trom ex and ^iro, to breathe. St. 
34, 1. z. ' course ' = coarse. St. 30, L 3, ' intention ' =■ 
stretching toward, i.e, earnest gaze : 1. 4, ' Dint' See 
on St XI, 1. 3. St. 40, 1. I, * trac'd'—on early sporting 
term. St 4a, L a, ' seald' « ceiled: L 6, *Pirmitude' 
= firmness, strength. St 43, L 5, 'reverberated' = re- 
flected. St. 44, u. 5-^. See Memorial-Introduction for 
parallels from Crashaw. St 45, 1. i, ' Table* = tablet 
St 51, L 6, ' outgrain'd ' = out-stained ? See Glossarial 
Index, s.v. St. 6a, 1. a, * extemporal' s extempore or 
without premeditation : 1. 5, ' snarle ' = entangle, i,e, 
quarrel St 63, L x, * admired' s& wondered. St. 65, 
1. 5, ' One^ifferent: See Glossarial Index on this and 
kindred compounds. St 71, L 4, * approof « approval. 
St 75, L I, ' courser ' » coarser : L 3, ' Btgay ' = make 

ry. St 79, 1. 3, 'complement* s compliment St 86, 
X, *A Name ofk^h Ingredients, God, and Grace,* i,e. 
John, 'ludvmit = grace, gift, of the LcHtL Hebrew, 
johanan : 1. 6, * Nomenclator* = Name-giver. St 93, 
1 4, • sear ' = sere. St. 98, L i, ' stiptic '^as astringent : 



3, 'Censure' := judgment, St 101, 1. r 'Hypocrite,* 



See Glossarial Index s.n, on this. St zia, L a, 
' Truif^ ' = trumpet. See our Authorized Version of 
the English Bible, z Cor. xv. 5a and i Thess. iv. 16. 
St 117. L I. '^rmyjs'sermme: l 6, ' IVeeds' ^ 




crowd t ,. . 

Z33. 11. 5-6! ' See Memorial-Introduction for pandld 
from Comus. St 134, 1. 4. ' «mi««W^ ' b persuaded, 
convicted. Cf. Ac|i xviii. a8 : Titus I 9 : z Cor. xiv. 
34. St. i«, 1. 3, * yurie's' ssjvay or Jewry, i,e, 
Judea's or Jewish. St. Z4a, 11. 4-5. See Memorial-In- 
troduction for parallel from Crashaw. St Z43, L 4. 
' e/aculations' b up-dartings or sdntillatioos. St X55, 
L a, ' in^osthumes' » purulent matter. St. Z56, L z, 
' Heait/n'Ombravid' 9s Heaven enriched and adorned. 
St Z64, L a, * Goal' s jail— «nd so frequenter. See st 
Z67, 1. a : St. aoo, 1. 5, &c. &c. St xya, L a, ' Cater '^ 
caterer? St z8o, L 3, ' Galiard' — ^lively dance. St. 
x8a, L 4, * Minces' s to walk with diminished steps : 
ib, 'spruce' s brisk, quick. St Z83, L z, 'salvage ^ 
savage. So st X98, I. 4. St. z8^ I. a^i'pini^d' ^ 
frutened as with a phi— as legal notices, t^, &c., were 
wont to be in public places. St z88, L a. 'flings ' » 
flounces, starts up. St. Z89, 1. 6, ' libs '—-printed 'lip's/ 
not apostrophe but to mark elidea ' p ' or ' pe.' St. 
X90, 1. 5. * unsnarle ' s disentangle, release or relieve 
mvself of. St Z98, L z, ' Beldame' ss old woman, 
witch-like. See Glossarial Index s.n, for illustration of 
the gradual deteriomtion of the word : L a, ' sprightful' 
ss spiteful, as of an evil sprite or spirit : ib, ' event ' ss 
out-come. St Z99, 1. 5, 'peevish ' « irritable. So st 
aio, L 4. St. ao8, 1. z, ' Throws* = throes. St aaa, 
L a, 'feather'd Oars' =s wings. St 337, I 3, ' hindly^ 
salvage,' See st Z83, 1. i.— G. 



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CANTO IV. 
The Rebellion. 



The ARGUMENT. 

GalTd by severe Devotion's constant Reins, 
The Senses and the Passions rebels prove : 
Pride's voted General, who a while disdains 
The Office his Ambition most did love. 
Reason's surfris'd, and into Prison thrown : 
The Will revolts, and Psyche's left alone. 



'VyJiosperity, how fiilse art thou unto 

^ Thy blessM Name, who with a comly Cheat 

Unwary Hearts so potently dost woo, 

That thine unstable Bottom they forget ; 
And think thy foot sure on a Rock doth stand, 
Whilst thy foundation is the fiuthless Sand. 



The Day which smil'd so briskly in the Mom, 
And left no &own in all the face of HeaVn, 
E'r Ev'ning hath been made the Prey and Soom 
Of sullen Clouds, so furiously driven ; 

That PhaAus* stoutest help was all in vain. 

When he the gaudy sky strove to maintain. 



The Sea in winning looks demurely dress'd. 
Hath often bid the Mariner been bold ; 
When strait an unsuspected stonn hath press'd 
Through the lamenting air, and having roll'd 
Into a foaming mount the vexM Deep, 
In brine intombM the presumptuous ship. 



When an the glorious Realm of pure Delight, 
Illustrious PanuUse, waited on the fieet 
Of joUy Eve ; she IHtle thought that Spight 
And envious Treason lurkid in those sweet 
Love-breathing Beds : yet there she met the fell 
Serpent, and found in Heav'n the worst of HeU. 



Eternal Change wheeto all the Stars about : 
What PAtent then can seal Stability 



To things below ? How doth proud Fortune flout 
The gayest Confidence which foolish We 
Are not afiaid to build ; but vainly trust 
Our Hopes are firm, whilst we our selves are dust ! 



Weak Dust, on which the least Wind domineers 

Which through this mortal Life's £Eunt climate blows ; 

A Life, which if not fenc'd by prudent Fears 

And Jelaousies, its own self overthrows : 
A Life so treacherous in its friendliest hue, 
That Saints themselves have found its fialseness true. 



So true, that did not Heav'n's authentic Law ; 
And. what more sweetly binds, that Copy which 
Heav'n's humble Son on his high self did draw. 
The matchless worth of glorious Patience teach ,* 
Not all the Joys the World and Life can give 
Could charm their souls to be content to live. 

8. 
For whilst all-ravish'd Psyche, feasts her heart 
With amorous sighs and pains, and day by day 
Riots and surfeits in delicious smart. 
Which relish sweeter to her Soul than they 
Who their too-tender studies fondly spent 
To cherish Her with natural Content: 



A knot of friends with Her together bom, 
And brought up under one. soft roof of skin, 
Began to stomach that imagin'd Soom, 
She heap'd on them ; who thought their only Sin 
Was too much Love to Her ; a Crime which might 
More Pardon challenge than Revenge invite. 

la 

"Us true, said they, We now her Servants be : 

And yet as truly are her Sisters too : 

Nay irare our native Seniority 

Due privilege aUow'd, we all should go 
Before, and she, the youngling, come behind : 
Sure she should not have found XJz so unkind. 



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62 



PSYCHE: OR LOVERS MYSTERY. 



CAirro IV. 



II. 

But now Sh' has chanc'd the npper hand to gain, 
She makes Us feel it in her tyrannous Law. 
So upstart Princes in their furious reign 
Then' weakness by their too much power show : 
So paltry Currents, when swoll'n highest, pour 
More rage than sober streams about the shore. 

12. 

Our natural freedom We must not enjoy. 
But when she lists ; and O how seldom 's that 1 
Great bushiess she pretends both night and day, 
Imploy'd about nor We nor afae knows what. 
It tickles Her, but hard on Us doth grate : 
She calls it Love, but all we find it Hate, 

13- 
Yet be it what it will, what's that to Us, 
Who are not bound Her humors to fulfil 
With our own Ruin 7 since her carriage thus 
Is wild and rampant, why should we sit still 

With desp'rate Patience, till we be undone? 

What need we fear her ? We are Five to One. 

14. 
The worst that can befall us, is Desinutim ; 
And that ahvady gapes upon us heer : 
But should kind Fortune's wings display Protection 
Over our just Adventiue, we shall stere. 
To Safeties Port ; which way soe'r we Sail, 
We can but Perish, and we may Prevail 

15- 

As when th' imprison'd wind in Earth below, 

Vex'd with those straits, b^ns to rage and swell ; 

Its dungeon first it shakes, then forth doth blow 

Its fuU-mouth'd indignation, and fill 
The world with tumult, tearing down the trees. 
Dismounting mountains, plowing up the seas : 

16. 
So did their sullen murmur gather strength, 
Unhappy strength, by mutinous degrees. 
Boiling to such impatience, that at length 
By flat rebellion they resolve to ease 
Their overcharge stomachs ; being met 
At council to contrive the venturous feat. 

17- 
'Twas in an upper chamber dark and dose, 
Arch'd with thin Ivory : for their common seat 
A white and soft and living couch they choose, 
And then with fawning earnestness intreat 
The Master^ of the house, that he would please 
In Equitie's fair scales to weigh their case. 

18. 
Grave He, whom vast experience had made 
A Judge most competent in their esteem. 



1 Th4 c^mtMOH Senu, 



Smiling and nodding his assenting head. 
Added this needless spur to headlong them : 
Content, he cry'd, come let me hear your Plea : 
'Tis just I to my friends should friendly be. 

19. 

The pomp of my late Plenty I did ow 

To your unwearied pains, which jo/d to bring 

Crowds of all choice varieties which grow 

In heav'n, or earth, or Sea : the wealthiest King 

Could not outvy that furniture which you 

To crown my Table daily did allow. 

2a 

But now alas, I see my tribute's thin : 

Some lazy sullen melancholic Things, 

Guilty of their vile selves, come sneaking in : 

But all your brisk and chearly Offerings 
Are intercepted ; and 'tis well that you 
Begin, else I had been the Plaintiif now. 

21. 
Glad were they all their reverend Censor qiake 
In their own discontented Dialect : 
But strait their fond ambitions did awake 
A strife who first should plead : In high neglect 
Of all her Sisters, Opsis^ knit her brows. 
And shot Scorn's arrows fixnn those full-bent bows. 

22. 

Who is your Queen, but I, who sit, said she. 
High in the glories of my double throne. 
Whilst all your motions regulated be 
By my imperial direction : 

Blind fools, what could you do, were't not for Me 

In setting on our brave Conspiracy ? 

23- 

That proud Word from her mouth no sooner flew, 
But Ospkresis* in high scorn snufiTd it up. 
Coy Geusis * bit her lips, which tumid grew 
With boiling wrath, and scarce had pow'r to stop 
Her tongue from, railing vengeance : Acoe^ 
Prick'd up her ears, and look'd as big as she. 

24. 
But ireful Haphe^ least could rule her pride : 
Imperious Dsime, cry'd she, how durst poor thou, 
Who in two little tender Cells are ty'd, 
Such saucy scorn on all thy Sisters throw ? 
See not those eyes of thine my Empire spread 
Through all the Body, ev'n fix»m foot to head? 

25. 
Who domineers but I, in and about 
Thy total self? would not this single Nail 



^ The semae ^Seeing, ^Tkeaemae^SmeUiMg. 
^0/ Tatting, ^O/Hemrmg, •QtTomdkmg. 



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CANTO IV. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVERS MYSTERY, 



63 



Be Anns enoagfa to tear your Queen-ship out 
From both your vain tlirones ? Nay should I assail 
Thee with two wretched Motes, they would suffice 
To damp that day in which thou prid'st thine eyes. 

26. 
Thus mad RAellum V always quarrdsom 
Ev'n with itself. Had not their Judgt made haste 
To stifle their Contention in the womb, 
Flat War had been brought forth : But in He cast 

His peremptory Sentence : Hold, said He, 

Your duty in my house, is to Agn€, 

37. 
This is the Main, how small soe'r it seems. 
Whither all your several winding Courses tend : 
Here do you pour in your concurrent streams. 
And in this Sta 0/ Sense your Rivers blend. 

A Sea where never Tempest yet wag'd war ; 

Far be it then that Friends iu Cahn should tear. 

28. 

The wrath of your impatient Spirits I 

Apidand, as useful for bold Diutmtemt .* 

But should the Nerves of your brave fuzy by 

The firency of intestine War be rent ; 
More with your selves than with your Foe you '1 fight, 
And make her keep you slaves by your own might. 

19. 

Highly I love you all, and could it be, 

Would wish that every One might be Supreme. 

'Tis true, what noble Hapke says, and she. 

Most like my self, doth Universal seem : 
Yet is she of a courser mixture, and 
As weU as highest, do's the lowest stand. 

But gallant Opsis sprightful is and bright, 
The glass of Heav'n above, an Heav'n below : 
Her seat 's completely highest ; and the right 
Of her Precedency her Beams do show. 

She 's all your Candle, and the way must lead ; 

£v'n your own Interest for her doth plead. 

31. 

Condemned Haphe, to this sentence paid 

Scornful obedience ; vowing not to speak 

At all, or speak the last. But strait array 'd 

In joyous aspect, Opsis strove to wake 
Her richest sweets, and let her sisters see 
What cause she had to slight their poverty. 

32. 
Yet wliat means joy to smile in these mine Eyes, 
Said she, whilst cruel Psyche domineers, 
And makes them worse than Blind ? Could it suffice 
Her now and then to set abroach my Tears, 
T ne'r would for my Weeping mourn ; but I, 
Alas, in Griefs sink always steeping lie. 



33. 
The Ocean with less constancy doth throw 
Its tide of Salt upon th' afflicted shore, 
Than from my springs the stream are forc'd to flow 
And down my soEdded cheeks their bUlows pour. 
O why must here be everlasting brine. 
Whilst all Tides dse do know an Ebb but mine f 

34. 
Yet were these Torrents needful to make clean 
Mhie Eyes and Me, I would not count them dear : 
But what crime stains us? Is't that We drink in 
All Beauties round about the Hemisphere? 
What were we made for else? Alas that We 
For our Creation's end must guilty be. 

35. 

More justly Psyche might that God impeach, 

Whom &lse and &uning she doth magnify. 

Is not His sacred Law our Pass, by which 

We travel through all Visibility ? 
Bold Hypocrite, who her own feiults doth thus 
Revenge upon her God by tort'ring Us. 

Are not the Byes those universal Glasses 

In which the world doth fiedrliest copied lie ? 

Man for a Microcosme by &vor passes. 

But in a blind and dusky mystery : 
Mine are the only fiuthfnl Mirrors, where 
All things in their true colors painted are. 

37. 

Heaven's not so high, nor glares the Sun so wide, 
But I can force Him in these Orbs of mine 
FYom mom to ev'n to roll his vastest pride : 
The bashful jealous Stars which coyliest shine, 
Can by their busy twinckling no way spy 
F^om these of mine to snatch their wariest Eye. 

38. 

Nay Psychi too, thou^ her brisk mixture be 
Pure and spiritual, knows not how to hide 
Her subtile self finom my discovery : 
She by these Windows easly is descnr'd. 
Whether she hopes or fears, or rests or moves, 
Whether she sighs or smiles, or hates or loves. 

39- 

Would sullen she but deign to mark how I 

Am fram'd and seated, she could not despise 

The manifest and secret Majesty, 

Which doth both compass and compose mine Eyes. 
But she is angry, and doth plainly prove 
That Hate is also Blind, as well as Love, 

40. 

Hence 'tis she pays no wonder to this Brow, 
The princely Arch which roofis my habitation 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



CANTO IV. 



In which as resolute Disdain doth grow 
As she can dart at it : This fabric's fiuhion 
Makes fair the World abore, whose radiant By* 
The ttpper Orbs hare arch'd with Majesty. 

41. 

These doable Doors, whose hinges are my will. 

FVom an theb sprightful motions banish Noise ; 

Else could they not catch tender SUip, which still 

Is shy and fearful, and flies every Voice. 
These make my East and West ; my Day by these 
Doth rise and set as often as I please. 

42. 
Nor do they vainly wantonise when they 
Suddenly twinkle ; but with needful speed 
Sweep all th' incroachments of bold Dust away. 
Which on my Glasses' &ce had flown, and spread 
Their unctuous kindness gently to supply 
What thirsty Air steals from my open Kjt. 

43. 
Two files of Pikes at either avenue 
With prest attendance stand both night and day, 
Which free admission to all friends allow, 
But to injurious Guests shut up the way. 

Right trusty Hairs; whose fiUthfiil fear to me 

Breeds no dishonor, but security. 



Full is my house of nimble servants, who 

Their ready selves in all my bus'ness stretch ; 

Whither my wish, yea or my Thought doth go. 

With sweet activity they thither reach. 
No Prince's Steeds can with such speed or ease 
Devour their way, as I am roll'd by these. 

45- 
Six courtly Curtains dose embrace my Bed, 
Where I inshrinM lie in dainty rest 
The Adnatt TunicU is outmost spread, 
Which with protection doth the/vf invest. 

And in her bosom shroud both them and Me 

From hasty moHon*s importunity. 

4& 
The next a Cortuaus Veil, both firm and bright : 
My natural Lanthom, whose diaphanous side 
Can both transmit, and safely keep the Light 
By which the Body and myself I guide. 
No time can spend this Lamp, no boistrous storm 
Can puff it out, or breath it any barm. 

47. 

The third, of Grapes* soft poUsh'd coat is made. 

Yet lin'd with roughness delicately fine ; 

Through which all kinds and tribes of Colors trade, 

And traffic with the inner Crystalline : 
The doubtful skin of Polypus did ne'r 
Slide through such various Looks as sport it here. 



48. 

This opes a casement to the Pupil, which 
My gaudy Iris clotheth in a dress 
QK perfect beauHts, shaming all those rich 
Streaks of that heav'n above, which can express 

Only the semi-glories of a Bow ; 

For mine a fair and total Circle show. 

49. 
The fourth 's that tender Membrane which doth kiss 
And hng the tender Pupil : when the Light 
Looks on the Eye with fultide court'sy, this 
Opes wide to meet and drink it in : when Night 

Her sable curtains draweth over heav'n. 

This shrinks the Pupil too into its ev'n. 

50. 
The fifth of Crystal is, soft, warm, and thin. 
Found no where but in my rich Treasiuy 
This the pure Region is of Life, wherein 
Things living live again ; and things which lie 

Dead every where beside, enlivened be. 

And trip about with brisk activity. 

51. 
The sixth 's a Texture of so fine a thread. 
That neat Arachng might the Spinster seem. 
Whose matchless art is so distinctly read 
In every line, that thence it takes its name : 
We call't Arama, a Net whereby 
I catch the purest wiqgM Beams that fly. 

52- 
Besides, such precious Hutnors I contain 
As furnish me with richer Purity, 
Than do's the boundless jewel^pavM Main 
Its Empress ThtHs: She in all her Sea 

Is but of M« salt-roylM Liquor, Queen, 

But I of ikrti, aU Umpid and s 



53. 
That which do's outmost smile, is Wattry, 
The spotless oover of a purer thing ; 
For under it doth liquid Crystal lie, 
Couch'd fairly on a Bed as ravishing 
As its illustrious self, a molten Bed 
Of gentle Glass, upon the bottom spred. 

54. 
And in the Mirror of this triple Spring 
All sprightful forms have ample room to play : 
The mystic shapes of every kind of thing 
Close-moulded in a soft and unseen ray 
On Instant's posting wings do hither fly, 
And dive into these Deeps of Purity. 

55. 

Not in their gUttering Crowns and Sceptres, but 
In Prince's Eye their Majesty doth reign : 



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CANTO IV. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



65 



Byes, Eygs those Champions are. whose conflict yet 
No Soldier's hand or heart could eV sustain : 
Ev'n wumly Troy prov'd a burnt sacrifioe 
To the more flaming Might KAftmaie Eyes, 

56. 

Lore's conquering Monarch borrows firom the Eye 

His ammunition, — quiver, bow, and darts ; 

And wins by that soft fierce Artillery* 

His mighty Principality 0/ Hearts, 
Eyes of his cwn had He, what might He not 
Atchiere, who has such power by others got 1 

57. 
And this is my Domestic beauties' Store : 
Lo now my outward equal Magazine : 
She beckned here ; when at an unseen door 
With ^lendid haste a silver Globe roU'd in. 
Whose sparkling Eyes shew'd it the way to turn 
And wheel from Ev'n through all the Night to Mom. 

58. 

This done : a dusky VeU she threw aside, 
And through a roseal East let ope ihtD^: 
Up Titan sprung, and, as the Globe did glide, 
Speeded into the West his golden way ; 
Where, red and hot with his long joumy. He 
Ftummed the cool bath of th' Atlantic Sea. 

59. 
Then bluster'd in the Winds, on whose broad back 
Rode laboring Clouds ; of which some crumbled Snow, 
Some spit forth Lightnings through a thundering Cxack, 
Some with more peaceful show'rs of Rain did flow, 
Some pour'd down monstrous vermin, some a flood 
Of not desirM Com, some squeet'd out Blood. 

60. 

That Storm blown o'r ; the 5/niiif march'd forth amiy'd 
With fragrant Green, whose sweet Embroidery 
In blooms and buds of virgin smiles display'd 
A scene of living Joys, all echoed by 
Ten thousand Birds, which, perch'd on every Tree, 
Tun'd their soft pipes to Natnre^s harmony. 

61. 
Yet underneath, in higher gallantry 
The Peacock strutted, whose enamd'd train 
Of the celestial Afodefs bravery 
Brandish'd her stout and gorgeous disdahi ; 
For that Bomfs winking eyes could not express 
So full a proof of heav'n as flam'd in these. 

62. 

Summer came next, with her own riches crown'd. 

A wreath of flow'rs upon her goodly head ; 

Large sheaves of ripened gold did her surround, 

And all her way with wholesom Plenty spread ; 
Where as she went, no Tree but reach'd his Arm 
(For it was hot) to shade her head from harm. 

46 



63. 

Then foUow'd Autumn, with her bosom full 
Of every firuit which either tempts the Eye 
Or charms the Taste ; here Wantoness might cull 
And weary grow : here wide-mouth'd Luxury 
Might her own boulimy devour with more 
Facility, than spend this teeming store. 

64. 

At last came drooping Winter slowly on, 
For frost bung heavy on his heels ; iheyear 
Languish'd in Him, and lookM old and wan : 
He quak'd and shiver'd through his triple fur : 
Which way soe'r he works, and strives to creep. 
He's to the knees in Snow at every step. 

65. 

For Snow was all things iiow ; and in this White 
The wanton World, which made such jolly sport 
In Autumn's, Summer's, and in Spring's I>elight. 
Must (girded up by Ice,) do penance for't : 
This cold, chaste, strait-lac'd garb will best repel 
The fiiults those loose hot Seasons taught to swell. 

66. 

This graceful Pageant past : up leap'd upon 
The stage, a City, whose ambitious head 
Threatned the clouds with intenruption : 
What Art was here to Riches married I 

How thick the marble Spires and Towers stood. 

Shading the houses with a stony Wood 1 

67. 

But like an awful Crown to all the rest 

The Prince's Palace mounted foir and high, 

ProdaimM by its double-gilded crest 

Its own and its great Owner's majesty. 
Yet was this outward Pomp a coarse poor skin 
To those bright Rarities which shin'd within. 

68. 
Here was the Jewel-house, where naked lay 
Such throngs of Gems as might enrich the Sea : 
There in the Wardrobe, in well-wrought array 
Their sparkling Brethren trainM were to be : 
The ck)thing of those Clothes Embroyderers had 
To pride, the back of scomfull Courtship made. 

69. 

Here stood the Checquer, that great Temple where 
The Weld's dear /dol lay in Sacred heaps : 
The Optic Storehouse there, hung round with rare 
Producdons fish'd from Arts profoundest Deeps ; 

The School of Admiration, and the Shop 

Of Miracles in Glasses treasur'd up. 

70. 
Here Men, and Beasts, and Birds were all of kin, 
Being extracted from one conunon womb. 



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66 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO IV. 



The noble Proconmsian Maxble Mine : 

And where the Statuary wanted room. 
The Painters livelier Lines entic'd the sight 
To sport in his less cumbersom delight. 

71. 

But in the Preseno&«hamber's ocean met 
All pompous Vanities' best Confluence : 
A golden Throne on silver floor was set, 
Which took new Lustre from the gorgeous Prince : 
Who in his glittering Coun inspherid was 
As Pkmbtu in the rays of his own face. 

72. 

The Queen both of his Kingdom and his heart. 
Beautie's best triumph, show'd at his right hand : 
And Ddgn'd her sweet exuberance to impart 
Upon that Maiden Circle which did stand 
I'o wait and gaze on Her, whose goodly Look 
Was Wander's fairer heav'n, and Pleasures book. 

73. 
When Opsis by these spectacles had drew 
Admiring smiles from her Spectators : I 
With millions more, said she, could feast your view 
Should I rip up my total Treasury, 
Which reacheth from the Loftiest pinnacle 
Of heav'n, down to the deepest sink of hell. 

74. 

And these are those Oblations mine Eyes 

In lo]ral piety did day by day 

On Psyche's only Altar sacrifice : 

Yet proudly-cruel She throws them away 
In fierce disdain, and needs will force me to 
Learn a Religion which must me undo. 

75. 
To some sad blnrrtd Prayertxx^ she ties 
My cheerly Spotless sight ; or foroeth me 
To stare so long on th' unr^garding skies, 
That with dull seeing I focget to see. 

She some pretence or other still will find 

In mere devotion to make me blind. 

76. 

The other .Sim, when he has look'd his day 
Can go to bed and rest himself in night : 
But I at Ev'n must still persist to pray. 
And watch her candle till the morning light. 
Some comfort 'twere if I might but obtain 
By all those Pray'rs relief for my own pain. 

77' 
But since nor She, nor Heav'n, will pity take ; 
What could oppressed dying Opsis do. 
But let her gasping sighs have leave to break 
Into these just Complaints, great Sir, to you ? 
To which may you be deaf, if Equity 
Pleads not as loud for me as mine own Cry. 



7«. 
She ending thus ; impatient Acoe, 
Who thought her Sister's Speech by all too long, 
Step'd back into their conunon TKasuxy 
Kept by ^Anamnesis^ (where lay the throng 
Of their ideal wealth, ) and bad her make 
Ready her Train, whilst she its Prok)gue spake. 

79- 
Hear me, said she ; and be this my reward 
For hearing all things else : though many a sound 
Upon mine Ears hath most unkindly jarr'd. 
Yet courteous entertainment still it found : 
The like I crave ; nor must ipy Sisters grudge. 
That next to Opsis' place, mine own I judge. 

80. 
My House is secret ; cautious winding ways 
And privy galleries into it lead : 
By which abstruse state I my glory raise 
Higher than if my Palace star'd abroad. 
Thus Jewels dw«U close in the Cftvity 
Of Mother.Pearl, and thus dwells Acoe. 

81. 
The outward room 's oblique, that violent Sounds 
May manners learn, jmd not rush in too fast ; 
And narrow, to protect my private bounds. 
Which by no stealing Vermin must be past. 
Yet if they ventrur, 1 have lime-twiggs there 
To check their rashness, trusty Wax and Hair. 

82. 
And at this Chamber's end is plac'd my Drum 
Made of a Parchment soil and thin and dry. 
And ready-corded. But the second Room 
Is of my active Tools the treasury : 

My Hammer's and my Anvil's dwelUi^'s. there. 

By which I forge all Sounds I please to hear. 

83. 
By them three small but wondrous busy Bones 
Whene'r my Drum is beat, aniculate 
Th' imperfect features of all breeding Tones, 
Just as the Teeth at pratling Ungua's gate. 
Indeed she only would be thoi^ht to make 
The shapes of Words ; but Acoe too can speak. 

84. 
For could I not. Dame Lingua's trade waits vain ; 
And all her Dialects too weak to make 
One Language, did not I produce again 
All her Productions : I to purpose speak. 

And I alone ; Words are dead wind, till I 

Enliven them with perfect energy. 



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CANTO IV. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



67 



85. 

Behind these two, a third is built, whose fhune 

So Tortuous is and dubious, and full 

Of Labyrinths, that thence it takes its Name. 

Six seini-cirdes there hook in and pull 
The sound to every oomer, that it noay 
Grow wdl acquainted e'r it pass away. 

86. 

Next unto that, my most reserve Cell 

Wreaths up its pliant self in privacy ; 

Just as the wary Periwinkle Shell 

Hnggiog his own involvM sides doth lie. 
FYom which daik doset, by a private slit 
To thee, grave Censor^ I my News transmit. 

87. 

Should Psyche* s pride observe no more than this. 
Sure she mi^^t deign me some respect : yet I 
Want not an ample Ttoop of Witnesses 
To prove my Worth. With that she tum'd her eye, 
When strait her Train in decent equipage 
Answer'd her Look, and enter'd on the Stage. 

8& 
Up sprung a soddain Grove, where every Tree 
Impeoplfld was with Birds of softest throats : 
With Boughs' Quires multiply'd, and Melody 
As various was, as were the Singers' Notes ; 
Till Philonuts diviner Anthems sound 
Them, in a deeper Sea of Music drown'd. 

Beneath a silver River stole, and by 

lu gentle murmur did all ears invite : 

In whose fiur streams a Swan, content to dy. 

And at that dear price buy them fresh delight, 

Tun'd her long Pipe to such an height that she 

Sung out her soul in her own Elegy. 

90. 
Then came two golden Orators, the one 
From Greece, from Rome the other, to lament 
Her dainty death : Demosthenes began, 
And rap'd the Hearers with such fiill content. 
That from the throat of the ddidous Swan 
His, which her praises tun'd, the honor wan. 

91. 
Yet Cicero disdaining that the Fame 
Of Rowutn Eloquence should buried be 
In that Bffd's grave : pour'd out so vast a stream 
Of all encomiastic suavity. 
That then- deceasM Svfon in every strain 
Of his Oration more than liv'd again. 

92. 
But Jmbal then rush'd in ; and room, said he, 
For my prerogative, who first could teach 



Scholars both deaf and dumb such harmony, 
As overtopp'd short-winded Nature's reach. 
Rude things, the Hammer and the Anvil, I 
Tutor'd to foige soul-charming Melody. 

93- 
Behind him flowM in all pleasant throngs 
Of Music's Utensils ; the Harp, the Lute, 
The Organ (moderator of all Songs) 
The Viol, Cymbal, Sackbut, Comet, Flute, 
The Harpsichord, Theorbo and Bandore, 
The gallant Trumpet, and a thousand more. 

94- 
Yet this great show was dumb, till in there prest 
A goodly Man, fram'd with Symmetrious grace ; 
His Robe and Crown his royalty profest. 
And his sweet Art betray'd what Prince he was ; 
For snatching up the Harp, he made it wake. 
And all its silent Brethem's language speak. 

95- 
As to the strings he whisper'd with his finger. 
They all told tales, and by their matchless Noise 
Acknowleg'd firedy. This is Israefs singer. 
Discover'd thus. He join'd with them his voice ; 
And as he sung, again the heav'nly Boul 
Which Opsis thither brought, be^ui to roll 

96. 

But He leap'd into it, and in the spheres 

Withdrew himself : For lo a surley Sea 

Comes foaming in, and proudly overbears 

That dainty Magazine of Harmony : 
The Sensa grie/d to see the Tempest's Roar 
Devour those gentle Airs they heard before. 

97. 
Yet worying among the waves they spy'd 
A wrackM Mortal, who with greedy hand 
Caught up the Harp which floated by his side. 
And hop'd by that weak Bark to get to land ; 
As knowing well that Music's Powers might charm 
Asleep the loudest wrath of any storm. 

98. 

No sooner borrow'd He the string's soft Cry, 
But at the gentle Call a Dolphin came. 
Lending his willing back to bear him high 
Above the pride of that deluded stream. 
Arion strait with all bis fingers strove 
To pay his £are, and quit the Fishes' love. 

99- 
The waves grew cahn and smilM in his face ; 
The chearly Nymphs look'd up and joy'd to hear 
Such courteous Accents in that churlish place. 
Where only Tempests us'd to beat their ear. 
The Winds came stealing close about him, and 
Catch'd every Note that droppM from his hand. 



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loa 
The pious Fish, who all this merry while 
Did deeper swim in Joy than in the Sea, 
And by the charming Harp's disooune b^guQe 
His journey's tedious length, was sad to see 
The period of his Voyage now at hand, 
And wish'd that he n^t with Arum land. 

loi. 

But on the shore a Singing IVoop appear'd, 
Where Pindar and his LmU their parts did play : 
All ears were mvish'd which his Numbers heard ; 
And had not Fiaccmt thrown his fear away. 
And fir'd by envious bravery, stretch'd his skill, 
Lyrics sole Soveraign Pindar had been stilL 

loa. 
(Yet neither of their Empires was so vast 
But they left Herbtri too, full room to reign ; 
Who Lyric's pure and precious Metal cast 
In holier moulds, and nobly durst maintain 
DevoHan in VtrUt whilst by the spheres 
He tunes bis Lute, and plays to heav'niy ears.) 

103. 
High on's deserved Mountain Homer sate. 
And sham'd a Trumpet by his stouter Laies ; 
Which Fam*^ who thither flutter'd, having got. 
Spread through the wondering World their only Praise : 
Till princely Maro with an equal Strain 
Embrac'd his voice, and echoed them again. 

104. 

(These at the second bound reflected be 

By Tassift Musit but in a purer tune : 

The Must which taught her sober Tuscany 

The Grtik and Roman Poetry to prune, 
And rescu'd Godfrey from Oblivion's bands, 
As He had Salem freed from Pagan hands. 

105. 
Not fax from whom, though in lower clime 
Yet with a goodly Train doth Colin sweep ; 
Though manacled in thick and peevish Rhyme, 
A decent pace his painful Verse doth keep : 
Right fairly dress'd were his welfeatur'd Queen^ 
Did not her Mask too much her beauties screen. 

lOd 

But O how low all these bow down before 
Naiianeum's and the World's immortal Glory: 
Him^ whose heav'n-fir^d Soul did sweetly soar 
Up to the top of every stage and story 

Of Poetry, transforming in his way 

Each Must into a true Urania, 

107. 
And by this heart-attracting Pattern Thou 
My only worthy stlf, thy Songs didst frame : 



yntness those poUsh'd Temple Siepi, which now 
Stand as the Ladder to thy mounting £une ; 
And, spight of all thy Travds, make 't appear 
Th' art more in Bnglamd than when ThdMi wert here. 

108. 

More unto others, but not so to me 

Privy of old to all thy secret Worth : 

What half-lost I endure for want of Tkee, 

The World will read hi this mishapen Bir^ 
Fair had my Psyche been, had she at first 
By thy judicious hand been drest and nurst) 

109. 

Some distance thenoe, in flow'17 wanton grotes 

Luxurious Atnetoaos sate, who by 

The thrilling Key of Sports and Smiles and Loves 

Eiieminated their quaint Melody. 
Nhnble Tkeocriim and Naso were 
The leading Lords of all that revel'd there. 

no. 

Whose Consort to complete, aforefaand came 

Mariners Genius, with a voice so high. 

That all the World rang with Adonis' Name. 

Unhappy Man^ and Choise/ O what would thy 
Brave Mum have done in such a Theme as Mine, 
Which makes Profdnness almost seem Divine f 

III. 

But though Thou stoutly soom'dst to be in debt 

To any Suhfeet, and would'st only ow 

Thy IVorhs* magnificence to thy vast Wit ; 

Mean I, was glad my beauties' lines to draw 
From well-stor'd Psyche's graceful Symmetry : 
Thy subject Thou commend'st, my subject Me. 

112. 

The close of all was an affected Throng 

Which chirp'd, pip'd, crackled, squeak'd, and buxs'd 

about; 
Mushrooms of Veru : who yet as boldly sung 
As Homer^s self, and desperately thought 

Their Sonnefs crach a noise as gallant made 

As did the Thunder of an Iliad, 

113. 

These vain ByUoms of Poetry, begot 

Of Confidence and Saeh, whose rhyming Itch 

Was their sole Jusj, Aeoe had not 

PresumM here to venture to the touch. 
Had she not been aware the Censure vras 
Not now by Reason but by Sense to pass. 

114. 

Those various Apparitions marching by ; 

This vocal Honey, and much more than this 

She cry'd, to court and solace Psyche^ I 

Would gladly drop : but she so sullen is 
That what makes all Rocks move and Tempests rest, 
In foul disdain she in my face doth cast. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



69 



115. 

She talks indeed of gtorionis Melody, 

StrapkU and Cherubic Anthenu : yet 

What bith can flame with so much Charity 

As to believe the holy Hypocrite ; 
Or dream that she for heav'nly Music cares 
Who grates on me with none but hellish Jars? 

116. 

In hideous sighs she smothers up my Ears, 

And diets me with big but hollow Groans : 

Liy'd I a Subject in the Realm of/tars 

And SMritks and raving Duperaiums ; 
I would not murmur that the Monsters there 
Did tender me with yelling Tonnents tear. 

117. 
But must proud /VyeA^here a Puiy be 
In splght of all the sweetest sweets I spread 
Thick in her way? must her feU Tyranny 
Choose on no fooutool but DiSirt to tread ? 

Forbid it, righteous Sir, and lend some aid, 

Before to ruin we t>e all betiay'd. 

118. 
Here OapkrtHs the next place daim'd as due 
To her ri|^t fidrly enUnent situation : 
Yet stepping up into more open view, 
She prefoc'd by her Looks to her Oration ; 

Seeking for both, no other ornament 

But wrinkles of disdahiful Discontent 

119. 
My Wrongs, said die, althoqgh I third must ^wak, 
Too well deserved to have been told the first 
My Court you Ailly know ; which, though it make 
No gaudy show indeed, yet at the worst. 
Dame Aeoe, its structure is as fieur 
As your however young yet wrinkled Ear. 

120. 

For like an Alabaster Prop it bears 

The forhead's load, yet ows that firmness to 

No Basis but it self : Within appears . 

A double Gallery, on whose walls there grow 
Quick watdifiil Hairs, which brush the entering Air 
To send it to my Presence dean and Ceut. 

121. 

In these an useful Backdoor lurks, whereby 
I breath cool gales to fan and chear the Heart : 
But by the Mammillar Processions, I 
Embrace those pleasures which my SwuU impart ; 
And then through them the Soul of Odours strain, 
And with pure vigorous Spirits befiiend the Brein. 

122. 
What kind of tribute I was wont to yield 
Coy Psychi, let Anamnms confess : 



No sooner had she spoken, but a field 
Sprung on the smiling stage, whose youthful Dress 
Did all that Summer represent, and more, 
Which Opsis had displayM there before. 

123. 

Thick beds of Marjoram, of Thyme, of Myrrh. 
Of Violets, Primroses, Rosemary, 
Of Saffron, Marigolds, and Lavender, 
Of July-flowers, flower-gentle, Piony, 

Of Hysop, Bahn, Sage, Roses, Finks, and Lilies. 

Of Honysuckles and of Daffodillies. 

124. 
These shdter'd were with many a spfcy Tree 
Sweetly embracM by the Eglantine, 
Who joying in their finagrant company 
Among their odors did his own entwine. 

And here the ravish'd Seuses ask'd their eyes 

Whether this were Araby or Paradise, 

125. 
Their eyes in wonder looking up, espied 
Upon a Cedar what more wondrous shew'd, 
A Pkeenix*s Tomb and Cradle, dignify'd 
With richer Odors than beneath were strew'd : 
The flames rose up to kill and to revive 
The Bird, which sweetly teacheth Death to Uve. 

126. 

Straight th' aromatic Qoud which roUkt there 
Breath'd them such sprightful powers of quickning joy. 
That now they marvd not a Bird should dare 
To die a death which could such life display. 
And if the smoke alone, say they, can stream 
With such Refreshment. O what may the flame ! 

127. 
No wonder that wise Deities desire 
Their highest, holiest Altars should be fed 
With Ufe-begetting spice ; or that such fire 
Should cool the wrath with maketh Vemgance red : 

No wonder Incense should have power to move 

To gentle Pity most incensM Jcve* 

128. 
This ecstasy of theirs pleas'd Ospkresis 
More than the Sweets did them : And why, cry'd she. 
Must I who pay such dainty Rent as this 
By most ingrateful Psyche tortur'd be ? 

If she would slay me quite, there were an end ; 

But she delights my Murder to extend. 

129. 

For on the rack she holds me nights and days ; 
Tying me pris'ner to a dead Man's skull I 
On which whilst she her hands at prayers lays 
Vilest Corruption's fumes my Nostrils fill. 
Worse is my state than theirs who buried lie 
In death, and smell not their grave's Misery. 



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130. 

If die we must, 'tis reason we by some 
Sturdy Adventtire first deserve our death. 
Impartial Sir, what better can become 
Your injur'd StnMS, than by generous Wrath 
To shew that they are SmsibU no less 
Of their deep Wrongs, than of their Happiness. 

131. 

G4MsiSt whose hasty mouth stood ready ope. 

Refoyc'd to hear her sister end her speech. 

And now said she, my Tongue enjoy thy scope, 

And in thy own defence thy powers stretch. 
PsycAe regards not what I say : but you 
Grave y«M^ will just Apoligies allow. 

132. 
Then since 'tis prov'd the £ashion to display 
The native beauties of our habitation ; 
My words shall travel in this beaten way : 
Although my House's ample commendation 

By all th' admiring World asserted is. 

In their ambition its door to kiss. 

133. 
For never with more reverential fear 
And strong devotion did the panting hearts 
Of sealous Saints aspire unto the dear 
Gate of Heavn's Bliss ; than those who by the darts 
Of Beauty on are prick'd and fir'd to win 
Love's Paradise, approach to this of mine. 

134. 
And this is of two leaves, two Roses' leaves. 
Whose tenderness the inward Guard supplies ; 
A strong and double Guard, which there receives 
With sharp examination, and tries 

The burliest Guests ; whom if it finds them rude. 

It sends into my Mill to be subdu'd. 

135., 

There are they press'd and giound and gentle made. 

And so upon my ruby table set ; 

Where, with a Canopy of Purple spread 

Over my head. Prince-like alone I eat ; 
And dining with the Cream of all the feast, 
To my Attendants freely leave the rest 

136. 

They in the Kitchen meetiBg at the fire 
Sit down and pick what pieces like them best : 
Where each one stuffing full his own desire. 
Grows fiU and merry ; then the scraps they cast 
Into the sink, which by a private spout 
Bdiind the House is duly emptied out. 

»37. 
To me all Si^&rs willing homage pay, 
Knowing their credit on my Tongue depends : 



What I distaste the whole Worid spits away. 

And what I justify, as much commends. 
AdmirM Honey ne'r was known to be 
Her sweet self, till she pleas'd and flatter'd me. 

I3«. 

Nor has Anamsusis a thinner show 
Of Rarities, which to my reahn belong. 
Than those my sister's pride display'd to you : 
Consult your eyes on that delicious Throng 

She ushers in : if any thing there want. 

Say then the world's supplies, not mine are scant 

139. 

Straitway a golden Table glided in, ' 

Pale as its burdflo, a far ridier Feast ; 

A Feast whose Powers might ViielUns win 

To loath bis Empire's board, and here be guest. 
A Feast whose strange variety and store 
Dar'd call great Solomon's Provision poor. 

140. 

The vanguard rankM by a skiUUl hsad 

Was fruitfiil Summer fairiy dish'd and dreat ; 

For Plumbs. Pears. Apples, Figgs, Dates^ Quinces, and 

Choise Apricots advanc'd before the rest : 
And then Grapes, Qtnms. Oranges, and Cherries, 
POmgranats, Almonds, Straw, Rasp, Mirtle-benles. 

141. 
Besides, smart Ftowers, and daring Herbs, to trim 
The wanton Board with Sallad's pageantry. 
And send a challenge to the stomach from 
Those stouter Troops whidi now woe marching nigh : 
This was the second raagM Squadron, whither 
All Nations of the Air nem'd flbck'd togMher. 

142. 
The Pheasant, Patridge, Plover, Bustard, Quail 
The Woodcodc, Capon, Cygnet. Chicken, Dove, 
The Snipe, Lark, Godwit. Turky, Peacock, Teal, 
With thousand wingM Dainties, which might move 
The best-4ki]l'd Luxury, the Deiiits 
Now plain and course Ambrosia to despise. 

143. 
Next these, a large Brigade was marshaUM, 
For vrhose forlorn, first march'd the hardy Boar ; 
And then the Bull, the Veal, the Goat, the Kid, 
The Sheep, Lamb, Cony, Hart, with reakii^ store 
Of every fair and iriiolsome thing that feeds 
Upon the hills, the vaUies, or the meads. 

144. 

But from the Sea and Rivers in the rear 

Another sutely Ocean flowing came ; 

The Smelt, the Perch, the RufT, the Roch, the Dare. 

The Carp, Pike, Tench, Lump, Ouemet. Herring. 
Bream, 
The Mullet, Tftmt, Dorce. Cod, Eel. Whiting, Mole, 
Plaise, Salmon, Lamprey, Sturgeon, Pilchard, Sole, 



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CANTO IV. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



7» 



H5- 
The Turbet, Cuttle, Flounder, Mackerel, 
Yea Lobsters, Oysters, and all kind of Fishes 
Which Lust's soft fuel treasure in their shell ; 
Had left their troublM Deeps to swim in dishes : 
Of which no Land knew such variety 
But when the Dtlug* made the Earth a Sea. 

146. 
But all this while the sparkling Bouls were crown' d 
With living Nectar round about the Table : 
Amasement ne'r such precious Liquor found 
Dropping firom Poet's brain ; a Liquor able 
To make th' Egyptian Quetn disdain her Cup, 
Though courting with a liquid Gem her lip. 

147. 

Then for Risarva, ten Ladies* dainty hands, 

Th' ambitious Caters of their own delight. 

Had curiously raisM antic Bands 

Of banquet Powers ; in which the wanton might 
Of Omfictory Art endeavor'd how 
To charm all Tasts to their sweet overthrow. 

148. 

Thus having feasted her Spectator's eyes, 

Geusis but nods, and all was ta'n away. 

And is this homage to be scom'd, she cries. 

Which copious I alone to Psychs pay ? 
Must her dry Supper of the simple Lan^, 
Of which she prates so much, these Daintia shame ? 

149. 

These DaintUs, whose soft but victorious Bait 

Hath many a sturdy Stoic captive led : 

And with whose predous-ielishing Deceit 

The liquorish World aspiieth to be fed ; 
Tho' erode Distempers, SurfeiU, Sickness, Pain, 
And immature Death make its dreadful Train. 

15a 
These Daintia^ which are foirer far, I trow. 
Than that poor green raw AppU, which could win 
A wiser She than Psycht is, to throw 
All other Bliss away : yet cursM Sim 
Attended on that fatal Bit; but here 
On all my Board is no Fortidden Chear. 

151. 

No ; bounteous Heav'n's free P&tent seals to Me 

Complete authority o'r aU tliese Pleasures. 

And must our holy Tyrant's Piety 

Cancel her own GoeTs Act ; and square the measures 
Of my Enjoyments by what her fond Sense 
Is pleas'd to judge Religious Abstinence? 

152. 
Must I be fed with Nope f or, what is more 
Jejune than that, vile Roots and coarse dry Bread? 



Must I be ravish'd from my sparkling store 
Of viigin Wines, and forc'd to drink the dead 
Deflowr'd cold water, or that Brine which she 
Boils in her eyes to scald my Mouth and Me ? 

153. 

Must I neglect my woful Bellie's Cry, 

And basely to self-murder yield ; whilst She 

Delights her peevish self to mortify 

Without the least remorse of killing Me? 
Still must I sit till my lank skin become 
A mere white sheet to shroud me for my tomb ? 

154. 

Though Justice, righteous Sir, might you persuade 

To aid our necessary mutiny ; 

Yet Pity too on Geusis* s part doth plead 

For present succour's alms before I dy. 
O had these Teeth on Psyche's heart their will 
Their wrongs how deeply would they make her feel ? 

155. 
She closing here, and champing her fell lips, 
Ev'n in her silence stOl spake spight and rage : 
Which Haphe echoing, forth right coily trips 
And shews her sullen face upon the Stage. 
With mute Disdain she her stem preface makes. 
And having look'd Contempt, Contempt she speaks ; 

iS6. 

'Tis well you'll deign me leave to be the last ; 
Yet goodly Sisters, when, I pray, would you 
Have/?// those Wrongs of yours, had I not past 
Through all your Lodgings, and inform'd you how? 
'Tis by my Touch alone that you resent 
What object yields Delight, what Discontent. 

157. 

You to your proper Cells confinM are. 

Which also stand in my Dominions, 

Whose limits are extended fax and near 

Through flesh and blood and skin : indeed some Bones 
Are obstinate ; but to thy teeth I tell 
Thee Geusis, they sometimes my power feel. 

1S8. 

What haste, Anawmesis f yet I'm contented. 
Come bless their eyes : At this proud-yielding word 
She on the scene her Tactile sweets presented : 
With curious Ermin's stately mantles fiirr'd, 

Illustrious robes of Satin and of silk. 

And wanton Lawns, more soft and white than milk. 

159. 

Delicious Beds of cygnet's purest Down, 

Cushions of Roses, Lilies, Violets ; 

Bathes of perfumed oiles, footpaths thick strown 

With budding Summer's undeflowrM sweets ; 
Stoves which could Autumn of cold Winter make, 
Fountains in Autumn to bring Winter back. 



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i6o. 
Soft TickUngs, Conrtings. Kisses, Dalliance. 
Embnoes which no modest Muse must teU ; 
For all the Company at their first glance 
Started and tum'd fixnn that bold spectade. 

Which Hapki marking, insolently cries. 

Out, out on these demure Hypocrisies. 

l6i. 
IVhat mean yon your vain heads to tun aside 
When still your itching hearts are hankering here ! 
Fools 1 what your eyes pretend not to abide 
Your hungry Thoughta esteem their cboloest chear : 
Talk not of shame ; I to your selves appeal 
Is*t shame to see what all desire to fed? 

163. 

Yet though this solemn and substantial Joy 

I offer Psyeki, most faigrateful She 

Starts more than you, and barbarously coy 

Makes war upon my solid Courtesy : 
Just as the clownish Rocks in pieces dash 
The streams, which gently come their sides to wash. 

163. 

Faint on the ground's cold bed she makes me Ue. 

There to corrupt my flesh and suck diseases, 

And measure out my grave before I die : 

Some doth of hemp, or hair, or what she pleases. 
Must those furrs' place usurp : poor Haphi, who 
Ne'r peeps abroad, must like a Pilgrim go. 

164. 

With churlish stroaks on this soft tender breast, 

As of some Anvil, 'tis her trade to beat 

With an unnat'ral Hammer, mine own fist. 

She scorns, grave Sir, the service of my feet. 
And dwelling always on my weary Knee 
Relentless Tyrant lames her self and me. 

165. 

Although my livid soreness be now spread 

About me round, she still regardless goes. 

And will go on, till force her spight fotbid. 

This has confederated me with those 
My injur'd sisters, all resolv'd to try 
The strength of Xigki against her Tyranny, 

166. 

The Plaintiffs thus their several Cases spread 

Open before tbdr common Censor: He 

Shaking with serious Look his thoughtful head. 

Some pause allowM to his Gravity ; 
At length he cry'd. The matter 's foul, I see, 
And doth indude with yours, my Injury. 

167. 

Your Resolution 's Just and noble too : 
But still I must advise you to Agree, 



Least yon by factious jealousy undo 
The joinU which knit up your Conspiracy. 

A mutinous Army only hastes to lose 

The fidd, before it to the battle goes. 

168. 
But more Confederates were not amiss 
The easier to dispatch your great Design : 
That discontented Troop which scatter'd is 
About the Heart, will in your Plot combine : 

And lo my iuthliil Sister Famty there. 

Whom yon may trust your embassy to bear. 

169. 

She all this while behind them sate, and as 
Their several PsgeanU and Complaints came out. 
Straight caught them piis'neis in her crystal glass. 
And then their figures in her Sampler wrought 

She needed no Instructions what to say. 

But being aak'd to go she flies away. 

170. 
For launching on the nimble wings of Thought 
Forthwith to her designMi port she sails ; 
Where, in the Lodgings scatter'd round about 
The Court of Psycki, she her £Boe unvails. 
The Passions flock'd to kiss her, and to know 
What welcome News she from abroad could show. 

171. 
The News is this, said she ; and instantly 
Taught her, fine airy figures, to present 
All that was spoke, or shew'd, or plotted by 
The angry Ssnsa; adding what intent 

Had spuir'd her thither. They a while amaz'd. 

Upon the guileftil Apparition gas'd. 

172. 
Then taking fire, and bdng too stout their own 
Wraths' flames to bridle, thus they bdch'd them out : 
Surdy, said they our Qnetn flat foe is grown. 
To her most trusty firiends. *Twas not for nought 
That we our sdves complain'd ; 'tis certain she 
Means now to rage and open Tyrant be. 

If their great distance cannot Them remove 
Ftom her injustioe. then no wonder we 
Who live more in her readi, so often prove 
The prey whereon she feasts her Crudty. 
We in their Plot against our common foe 
Think it most Just to Join ; and tell them so. 

174. 
Though theirs the honor be to have begun 
This righteous insurrection ; yet they 
Shall find that we will lead our forces on 
With such resolvM might, that our Dday 
Shall more than be excusM, when our Rage 
ShaU once appear upon the Battd's stage. 



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PSYCHE: OR love: S MYSTERY. 



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175. 
Let them be sure to watch their Ports without, 
And leave the bus'ness here within for us ; 
Who are not now to learn how to be stout 
And stomachfiil and rude and mutinous. 
That Word rais'd Fancy's smile, right glad to see 
Success so quickly crown her Embassy. 

176. 

Whose Issue when she to the Saues told. 

They all would in devotion needs blaspheme ; 

Thrusting loud thanks on God^ as if their bold 

Sedition had been patronis'd by Him ; 
And now with traiterous expectation swell'd. 
They wait to see the Possums take the field. 

177. 
But Hope, Zjovi, Hatred, Anger, and the rest 
Of that impatient crew had forthwith been 
In open arms, had cautious Fear not prest 
For some demur, and to his party won 

Deep-thinking JeaUmsy: 'Tis best, said he. 

We of some valiant Leader first agree. 

178. 

Psyche is strong and sober : if we fight 
Without due Discipline, that Rashness will 
But hurry our own Pow'rs to speedier flight : 
But if we make some expert GeneroTs skill 
Our own by following it. the Victory 
Will grow ambitious on our side to be. 

179. 
That Word a new Confusion broacb'd, for all 
Reach'd at the GeneroTs lofty Place, but Feor 
And Jealousy; yet these abhorr'd to Call 
Under the absolute power of any there, 

And equally in doubt and dread did stand. 

Both of subjection, and of Command. 

I8a 
Long their Ambitions justled one another. 
(For who is best where all alike are bad 
By common Treason?) and yet loth to smother 
Their traiterous Wrath in their own Strife, they made 

A Vote at last, to step abroad and see 

Who skiUM best feats of Activity. 

181. 
When lo (so well Hell's plots were lay'd) they met 
A goodly Person, to whose cedar head 
All theirs like shrubs appear'd : Disdain did sit 
High on his brows, his awful limbs were spread 
To such extent of gallantry, that there 
Seem'd ample room for every thing but fear. 

182. 
At his first glimpse their wishes all ooooenter 
On portly Htan : L$tf$ forthwith is design'd 

46 



To break to this brave Knight their bold Adventure, 
And with her wiley sweetness sift his mind. 
She hastens to her Task ; and bowing low, 
From her mouth's fount lets this inchantment flow. 

183. 

Mights goodly Mirror, whosoe'r you be 

Whom blessM fortune shews us here alone ; 

Surely such fair commanding Majesty 

Deserves by thousands to be waited on : 
And, if such honor you this Ttoop will deign. 
We shall have found a Lord, and you a Train, 

184. 
An high Design hath fir'd us now, which may 
Your Might and Soverain Command become : 
Upon a War with Psyche we to day 
ResolvM have : but kind fate kept us finom 
Choosing our Generol; and ire hope our stay 
Was but for you, whom Heav'n puts in our way. 

185. 

This League was knit by strong Necessity, 
To break that Yoke which else our necks would break : 
Would Psyche suffer us ourselves to be. 
No mutiny of ours her throne should shake ; 
But we, though Passions, calm and tame must lie 
Whilst she proves passionate ev'n to Tyranny. 

186. 

We must not Hope, nor Fear, nor Love, nor Hate, 

Nor do the things for which we all were bom : 

If fouler slavery e'r did violate 

Free-Subjects' birthright ; our sad suflferings soom : 
If not ; O may the just Relief^ ours. 
Great Sir, by your stout hand ; the Ghry yours. 

187. 

Agenor"^ glad such punctual ready Bliss 

Did on his own Design itself obtrude ; 

Swell'd his vast Looks to bigger stateliness : 

Three turns he stalk'd, three times he proudly view'd 
The Company, three times he snuiTd, and then 
Opening his mouth at leisure thus began : 

188. 

Now by my glorious Power, all you I know, 

But silly Brats I see you know not me, 

Whom to so vile a piece of Work you woo 

As bridling wretchM Psyche* s Tyranny. 
Must I. whom Lyons, Tigres. Dragons fear. 
Debase my Strength, and stoop to conquer Her? 

189. 

If of the great Kind she a Monster were. 
Or e'r had made distressed Countries fly 
To Shrines and Oracles on wings of fear. 
To summon to their help a Deity: 

1 Tkt Spirit 0/ Pride. 



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PSYCHE: OR love: S MYSTERY. 



CANTO IV. 



If the oonld prove a TkirUmtk Task for Him 
Who TwOvt •tcbiev' d. Um Wofk would ne 



190. 

Bat to UBsheAth my Valour at a fly, 

And phch the field against a simple Wonn ; 

To momt my Sinews' great Artillery 

A female deqiicahle Fort to stonn ; 
More honor on the Captive's bead would heap 
Than on my Hand whkh did that Conqueit reap. 

191. 

Yet since so deep I your Oppression see, 

1 '1 win thus much on my high-practis'd Might 

To make it bow to your ddivery. 

But never aay Agmor came xajigkt: 
I soom the match ; this fiuger will be strong 
Enough to prove my Pity of your Wrong, 

192. 
This said, He march'd in more than warlike state 
Up to the House where thoughtful P^ck* lay : 
And thund'ring imperiously at the gate, 
Unto the Rebel's rage burst ope the way. 
Loud rung the Ruin, and with boistrous fear 
Strait revei'd in the Queen's amasM ear. 

193. 
As when the Winds let loose upon the Sea, 
Tear up the Deeps and fling them at the Stars ; 
Chasing away unarm'd Sermify 
With bold alanns of unsuspected wars ; 
The startled Nymphs their fearful heads shrink in, 
And down into the worki's dark bottom run : 

194. 
So Psyche^ trembling at the furious Cry, 
Retreated to her inmost Fort ; a place 
Profound and strong, from whence her jealous Eye 
Might safely view the Rebels : Time it was 
To call her Counsellor; whom to the Rout 
With these Instructions she dispatcheth out : 

195. 
Run Logos^^ run, and learn what mad mistake 
Hurls those my Subjects into tumult : Tky, 
(For well thou skill'st that gentle Might) to break 
Their fiirie's torrent by the lenity 
Of wise Persuasion ; Pardom^ oS all charms 
The best, proclaim to all who lay down arms. 

196. 

He at this odd News shakes his head ; but yet 
Right sagely-pleasant to the Ttaitors goes. 
And Friends, said he. If you be in a fit 
Of fighting, then in God's name seek your foes. 
This is your peaceful Home ; O be it far 
From you to ruin your ovni Rest by War. 

1 Xfotom. 



'97. 

Did any Reason prompt you to rebel ; 

How could it 'scape fiom being known to Me ? 

Your QmM* what would it boot you to eicpel. 

Who needs must in her ruins buried be? 
What gains the mad-man, who through jealous iears 
Pulls his own house* and death, about his ears? 

198. 

What means sweet Love to rob herself of aU 
Herself, in playing peevish Discord's part ? 
Must th' universal Ghie, whkh binds the Ball 
Of this fiur world so dose, in pieces start? 

Shall thy dear Bands senre only now .to ty 

Dairmeiiom &st to your Cou^^irtuy t 

199. 

Stem Hairedt could the copious worid afford 

No other Prey whereon to feast thy spight ; 

But thou against thyself must draw thy sword 

In venturing against thy Qwoem to fight ? 
O hate what hateful is, but hate not her. 
Whose love gives thee thy lifie and dwelling here. 

200. 
What strange Enchantments lur6d Thee, fond Hofe, 
To this design of self-destruction ? Who 
Abus'd thy credulous soul, and puff*d thee up 
With mad supposal that the Ladder to 
Exhalt thee, must be Ruin ? Thus art Thou 
Of Hope become plain Dtsperatum now. 

201. 
Unhappy Fear, and what makes thee afraid 
To dwell in thine own Happinesse's Port ? 
What monstrous Witchery hath now betray'd 
To this bold Mutiny thy tiembUng Heart ? 
What hardneth thee, who quak'st at every frown 
Of other Princes, to despise thhse own ? 

202. 

Brave Auger, shall the scoffing world at kst 

Have cause to mock thy Valour, whilst it makes 

Such earnest baste unto so wild a Jest 

As waging war against its own mistakes ? 
What pity 'tis to see thou art so fafr 
And well appointed when no Danger 's near ? 

203, 

And you my FeUow-aubiects aU, whom t 

Have often heard our gracious Smtereigu prsise 

For humUe Duty and fidelity ; 

O why must groundless Rashness now erase 
That noble Character, and in its stead 
Print foul Rebellion's bk>t on your flair head? 

204. 
By your Allc^giance and iagenerste worth. 
By your own Uves. and dearer Ixiyalty, 



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CANTO IV. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



75 



By Psyck£s roynl Head, by Heav'n and Earth, 
By every thing. I you conjure to be 

True to yourselves: The Queen desires but this. 

Who by your Peace and weal counts her own bliss. 

205. 
Suspect not that this Paroxysm, which hath 
Your honesty abusM ; or the Art 
Of that bold Stranger who applies jrour wrath 
To his own Envy's end. can spur her heart 
To such revenge, that she cannot forgive 
Those in whose Happiness her life doth Uve. 

206. 
No ; she is readier to forget, than you 
Can be your hasty Error to lay down : 
She on your necks by me her arms doth throw. 
And by my Tongue she calls you still ber own : 

Behold the Pledge of her Embraces here. 

A Central Pardon all your Doubts to clear. 

207. 
As when soft Oil on raging fire you throw, 
Forthwith the finetfiil flames incensed by ' 
Its gentleness, more fierce and rampant grow : 
So here the unrelenting mutinous firy 
Storm'd at persuasive Logos^ and to new 
Impatience at his sweet Oration grew. 

208. 

He's an Enchanter, Anger cry'd, and by 

These blandishments hath oft bewitchM Us : 

Bat our mature and just Conspiracy 

Scorns to be foolM and confiitM thus. 
Tis time to act our Resolutions now, 
That Reason's may no longer us undo. 

209. 

Then clapping her right paw full on his throat. 
And stopping with her left his mouth, she drew 
Him to Agenor, crying. Now w' have got 
Our subtlest Foe. Sir. let him have his due. 

We never shall our warlike bus'ness do. 

If to the Tyrant back in peace he go. 

2ia 
The other Passions straH reboniided that 
Rebellious word ; whose General glad to see 
Their madness compass what his pride could not. 
Gave order Logos should dose Pris'ner be. 
They hoUowfaig all for joy. made desperate haste 
Two chains upon his neck and mouth to cast. 

211. 

And here I challenge any heart to read 
This storie's riddles, and foibear to sigh ; 
Seeing servile feet tread down the noble Head, 
And common Slaves with tyrmnnons Lioenoe fly 
Upon their Lord: O who secure cia be. 
When Reeuon ouut be bound, and Passion free I 



212. 
What wofiil Consequents must make the train 
Of those fidse-nani6d SubjecU Insolence. 
Who blush not with contempt to entertain 
The Messages of their most yeilding Prince : 

Who have no power because they strong are grown 

Or Loyalty or Modesty to own. 

213. 
Psyche, whom all this while suspicion had 
Held watching at the window of her Tower. 
When she desoyd from thence how fiercely mad 
And confident of their outrageous Power 
The Rebels were ; and that in foul disdain 
Her Messenger they did in Bonds detain : 

214. 
She fetch'd a mighty si^^ ; and though with Him 
Herself and all her Honor. Pris'ners were ; 
Between Despairs and Hopes she long did swim, 
Yet could her course into no harbor steer. 

For her own frmdes to such tumults rose. 

As copied out her loud tempestuous foes. 

215. 
Thus by that Noise without, and this within, 
She Summon'd was unto the top of fear. 
Her trusty Pkylax now would not be seen, 
Nor can she any News of Charis hear. 

No friend was left but TkeUma 1 / and she 

Was thought but wavering in fidelity. 

216. 
But as the shipwrack'd Man toss'd up and down 
Between high deaths and low. amongst the Waves ; 
Claps fast on any glimpse of help, and grown 
Bold by despair, nor hold nor comfort leaves 
As long 's his poor plank floats : So Psyche now 
On Thelema her sinking aims did throw. 

217. 
And O, she cry'd. my only Reftige, I 
Conjure thee well to mark thy Hap and m 
The Tempest of my Woes is swoU'n 90 high. 
That now all bridles it disdains but thine : 
And 'tis thy Privilege, that I to thee 
Must ow my life, for thy sake dear to me. 

218. 
At any price would'st Thou some way have bought 
Which might so deep engage thy Queen to thee : 
Yet monstrous hadst thou been, if thou hadst sought 
This sad unnatural opportunity. 

But now their Disobedience ope's the way 

For thy Desert if thou wilt me obey. 



1 The WiU, 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVBS MYSTERY. 



CANTO IV. 



319. 
Logitt iMd prov'd hfanadf both wise and strong. 
Had obstinate Spiglit not dammed up their cars : 
But an his Powers fighting from his toogne. 
Their deaf Rebellion his Assaulu outdares. 

His Arguments ooniuted are with Chains. 

And I ficar. in prison He remains. 

33a 

But thy fanve Valoar reigneth in thy Hands. 

O most huomparable Awumom ; 

Whose noble stroke no Adamant withstands. 

No Subtilty eludes : Thy Nod alone 
PoinU out thy Victories ; fresh lauxel groves 
Court thy subduing foot where'r it moves. 

331. 
^ softness fain I would have oonquer'd Them, 
No blast of whose Rebellion could blow out 
My royal Love, which towards them did flame : 
But now their Madness challengeth a stout 

And corsive Cure : thy Hand must do the Deed. 

And through their Wounds not fear my blood to shed. 

333. 

how my Soul at that sad Word recoils, 
And at the thought of Blood aforehand bleeds 1 
What gains a Prince but loss, by winning Spoils 
From his fond Subjecu I Yet since fate will needs 

Thus cruel make my Safety ; be it so : 
Though tender I start back, Thou on shalt go. 

333. 
Go then my fidthftil Champion, and may 
BlessM Succiss march hi thy company. 

1 *I from this window wait upon thy way 
By my observing and well-wtshing Ejre ; 

Which Shan the witness of thy valor be. 
And what Reward it shall deserve from me. 

334. 
But fatt not to revenge the proud intrusion 
Of yon ignoble Strangtr, who may be 
Perhaps the firebnnd of this wikl Confusion 
Which threatens to bum up both Thee and Me : 
And if his blood will serve to quench this fire. 
Spare all the rest ; they win no more Conspire. 

235. 
Stout Thtima with this Commission went. 
And by imperious Looks built up her brow. 
The Passions struck by that commanding Dint 
Down all their eyes and arms and courage threw : 
Only Agtmor's stomach rose to see 
Himself out-look'd m high-swol'n Majesty. 

336. 
But knowing his own Weakness, and her Might. 
And seeing aU the Passims tun'd lo/ear; 



He judg'd it safest now to change the fight 
Of Arms to that of Wit : for in Ijwe's ear 

He whisper'd his device ; and straitway she 

At Th4i€ma let fly this Fallacy. 

327. 
iUusirwms Latfy, you to-day might spare 
Those ireful Looks, with which MistaJU hath plow'd 
Your awful fisoe : How can you think we dare 
So far forget our nothing, as with proud 
Madness to whet our Sword and bend our Bow 
To make war with OwuUpaUnct^ and>0« f 

338. 
But as your strength is great, so is your love. 
Whom we our noble Friend have always found : 
How often has your courteous Goodness strove 
To ease that Yoke whose weight our Patience ground ? 
O had our Savtragn been as mild as you. 
Despair had not been aU our Comfort now. 

339b 
But though oar loyal service day by day 
Strain'd aU iu strepgth Her finvor to obtain ; 
StiU her remorseless Cruelty dpth lay 
Upon our bruisM necks a heavier chain ; 
And hating Love's and Pity's thoughts, she still 
With lingering Death delighteth us to kill. 

Arms, Arms, are our sole (foroM) Refuge ; for 
Though your all-brawny Might knows how to bear 
What wrongs soe'r her spight on you can pour. 
Our shoulders of a feebler temper are : 
Nor can you Judge it guilt in us, if we 
Shrink more than you from her broad Tyranny. 

331, 
Hearing what constant slavery she heap'd 
On our poor backs, who yet were aU fxee-born. 
This noble Stramgtr merdfuUy weep'd. 
And thought it Honor's duty not to scorn 

Our sad estate : Then far &r be it you 

Our ancient /Wmu^ should more than Strangtr grow. 

333. 

Yet perish if we must, our Miseries 

Beg but this wofiil Courtesy of you : 

Return us not to Psydu^ who denies 

Us Brevity of tormenta : Lo we throw 
Ourselves bdfore your gentle feet, and pray 
Our lives and grieii may see no other day. 

2^33. 

Nay doubt not. Die we dare ; but dare not think 

Of living in our former Death again. 

If firom the fistal blow our necks bm shrink. 

Then say. We truly wish'd not to be slain. 
Here take our willing swords ; which in your hand 
Thou^ not hi ours, our servitude may end. 



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CANTO IV. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVERS MYSTERY. 



77 



234. 
As when the canning Reeds relent and bow 
In low submission to the boistrous Wind ; 
And with their whining pipe their sorrows blow 
To every Blast, compassion's alms to find : 
Way to their charm the generous Ttmptst gives, 
And passing forward, them their Phrdon leaves. 

235. 
So portly TkiUma allayM by 
Their fanning homage, bid them all arise. 
They, strait unveiling ready Mtmory, 
In fraudulent thanks presented to her eyes 
The stately Pageant Patuy thither brought, 
With their own Treasures amplier fumish'd out. 

236. 

She look'd, and wonder'd, and let through her eye 

The soft DecHi get stealing to her heart. 

She never yet did at one view descry 

So huge an Army of Delight, such Art 
Of sweetness, such Magnificence of Pleasure, 
Such equipage of Smiles and Joys and Leisure. 

237. 
EluHom, who stood musing at her hand. 
Was ne'r at such a dainty loss as here : 
Her thoughts ten thousand sweets examin'd, and 
Hover'd in gasing doubt which to prefer. 
So in the flowry Mead fond ChUdren loose 
Their eyes, before they can resolve to choose. 

238. 
The Rtbeis seeing now their crafty Bait 
Went down without suspicion of the Hook ; 
Bid Love drive home the plot : She melting strait 
Down on her bended knee, with flattering Look 
And pliant words, endeavor'd thus to teach 
Stur^ RebtlUoH meek Submission's speech : 

239. 

Since this our full apparent Magazine, 
Which thy just Eyes are pleas'd not to disdain, 
No more respect can fix>m fell Psyche's win, 
Than froward glances of contempt ; again 
We beg, that we may never live to see 
Such sweeu betray'd to further slavery. 

240. 
The bounteous heav'n, and Earth, and Air, and Sea 
Have made our Treasury their own by this 
Their royal Contribudon : Yet must we 
Our own possessions no more possess. 
Nor reap the fruit of irtiat the World's consent 
In this rich Mass heaps up for our content. 

241. 

O no 1 it is in vain that we are by 
The generous univene thus favorM, 



Whilst Psyche's envious Barbarity, 
And not our Mouths are by its bounty fed. 
What patrons for this fierceness can she find. 
When all the world besides to us are kind ? 

242. 
To us, and to cnsx/ellow-smferers, who 
Her foithful fJEictors are in Senses trade. 
A most unhappy fiuthfulness, which no 
Acceptance finds I they all together plead 
With wofiil us, desirous all our last 
Anchor of hope on righteous Thee to cast. 

243. 

Now by thy mighty Goodness we implore 

Relief for our loud-crying Injuries. 

So to thy serrice this exuberant store 

We sacrifice ; no despicable Price 
Of thy Compassion, if the total gains 
Of Naturis wealth be worth thy smallest pains. 

244. 

So thy sole Beck shall be the Law whereby 

ObligM we our lives will regulate : 

So great Agtnor will unite in thy 

Acquaintance, and this morning consecrate 
To peaceful smiles, whose ominous Dawn was red 
With flashes of fierce War and streaks of Blood. 

245. 
As when the shepherd loitering by the side 
Of some soft-murmuring Current, lets his ears 
Drink that complaining story of the Tide ; 
The purling Dialect soon domineers 
O'r his inchanted spirits, and down he lies 
Both to the noise and sleep, an easy prise : 

246. 
So Thelema, who Uoger'd aU this while 
In idle audience of Love's blandishments, 
Was now subduM by her gloting guile. 
And to the Rebel's fair-tongu'd Plot consents. 
Her hankering arms she with then* treasures fills. 
Her foolish heart with joy, her face with smiles. 

247. 
And well I see, she cries, how righteous is 
Your Omse and Quarrel : Heav'n fort>id that I 
To such deep undeservM miseries 
The jusdce of Compassion should deny. 

Yet Pity is not aU that I can show : 

You know this Hand hath greater might than so. 

248. 
Alas not Psyche's self, although she be 
My granted Sovereign, can make me bend : 
Oft do I rush and range abroad, when she 
Would lock me up ; and oft when she would send 
Me forth, except my pleasure be to stfr, 
I stay in spight of all her strength and Her. 



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CANTO IV. 



149. 

And, wdl aware of this, prudendal she 
Wav'd all her state, and su'd to me for aid 
In meek pathetic flattery, when ye 
Had bravely leam'd her how to be afraid. 
I heard her fanning prayers : and I could 
Hafe stayed ; but I came, Because I womld, 

25a 
'Twas I first taught your Pris'ner Logos how 
To bear a chain ; dse you had strove in vain. 
Long, long have I accustom'd Him to bow 
To my least finger his strong-reaching Brain : 
And though sometimes i let him wrangle, yet 
Reason has no more power than I permit 

251. 

The universal strength of all you see 

Throughout the wide-spread world look big and high, 

Ne'r yet made combination which could be 

Valid enough to bind my Potency. 
Hence 'tis that stoutest Champions from their knee 
Fight by Petitions, when they deal with me. 

252. 
They talk of Sasuoiv,— <nie, I must confess 
Fame hath not quite bely'd ; and yet we see 
A Wenche's sheers dipt off his Mightiness, 
And trimm'd him fit for his captivity. 
Alas, poor Giant, all his strength hung loose 
About his ears ; mine in my heart lies dose. 



353- 
Nay Hetnfn (without a brag I speak 't) does know 
My might so thoroughly, that it ne'r would try 
By lightdown force of Arms my neck to bow. 
But by allurements strives to mollify 
My hardy Heart And well it is that ye 
Have took that gentle only course with me. 

254. 
As for your choice of this illustrious Knigki 
To head your Psrty. I dispute it not 
His worth forestals exception : though in right 
My vote should first have been eypecfed, but 
You by my pardon of that haste may know 
What serious Pity I your Case allow. 

255. 
This said, Ageteor by the hand she takes, 
And bids him welcome with a courtly Kiss. 
He, soldier-like, right proud repaiment makes 
In aiTogant high-languag'd Promises ; 
And swears, by all his Conquesu, she shall find 
That with a Man indeed sh' had now oombin'd. 

256. 

Then to his fair Pavilion ushering Her, 
His Soldiers he to Council summons : They 
As proud 's their haughty Gemeral, thither tear 
With rampant Acclamations their way ; 
And there contrive by joint deliberation 
The rest of their Adventure how to fiuhion. 



NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Stanza 98, 1. 4. * /Wucy ' = frenzy. St 99. I 
* eomrser* — coarser. St. 39, L 4, ' ahroach* s a-flow- 



5. 
w- 

St33. 



stream' should be 'streams.' St 36, 1. 3, * Micro- 

M* s little world. St 43, 1. 9, * fresr ^ ready. 

50, L 9, put: after 'Treasury.' St ^x, 1. a. 



ing ; but see Glossarial Index j.v. for examples. 
1.3:— 

* Than from my springs the ftnem are forc*d to flow.* 
Probably this has got altered by printer's error from \— 

* Than from my stream the qnings are forc'd to flow,' 

or ' stream ' should be ' streams.' 

cosme * 

St. 50, L 9, put: after 'Treasury.' St ^x, 

• AracAne* = the Spider according to the familiar myth. 
St 59, L 5, 'jfl/Z-n^f/ft/' = salt-rolled? St 58, L 9, 

* rosea/:' see Glossarial Index j. v. for other examples : 
L 6, * Plumnud ' s sounded or fathomed yrith the plum- 
met. St 59, 1. 9, ' cruwUUd'^-& vivid word. St 6x, 1. 
K, • Bouls' = bowl's. St 69, 1. s, • Where as ' = 
Where, as, &c. St. 63, 1. 5, ' boulimy ' = bouille ; but 
see Glossarial Index, j.v. St. 70, I. 3, * Proeonnesian 
Marble Mime:* see Glossarial Index, s.n. St 90, L 4, 
' rap'd ' = rapt or enraptured. St 93, 1. 5, * Theorbo ' 
s kind of lute : ib. * Bandore' s guitar-like instrument. 
St 94, 1. 9. ' Svmmeirioms'st symmetrical. St 95, L c, 
' Boml' s bowl or g[k>be. St loor 1. 5. 'fericd' = end. 
St X05, 1. 9, ' Colin' = Spenser — mispnnted 'Colon :' 
see Glossarial Index, s.n, St. 107, L 3, ' Temple Steps,' 
vis., of Richard Crashaw— see Memorial-Introduction 



and Glossarial Index, s.n, St. 1x0, L x, ' Consort'- 
for other examples Glossarial Index, s.v. St. 1x3, L i. 
'i(r^i<ra»' = bastards. St 193, L 4. ^Jtower-mtle'-- 
see Glossarial Index, j.v. St X3X, L ^ * ApSigies' = 
defences. St X40, L 6, ' Straw ' = straw-bemes : ib. 

* Hasp ' as raspberries. St X49, 1. 3. ' Godwit '-—see 
Glossarial Index s.v. for full explanation and parallels : 
1. 6, ' course ' s coarse. St X43, I. 3, ' yeal ss calf- 
see Glossarial Index, s.v, St. X44, L 3, ' Rug*—* Dare: 
L 4, ^Sumf'-^^Gutmet:* 1. 5. * Dorce'-^* MoW'-vet 
Glossarial Index for full eqdanations and parallels. St 
X45. 1. 5, ' Egyptian Queen ' = Cleopatra. St X47, L 9. 

* Caters ' = caterers : 1. 3, * antic ' = odd, grotesque ; L 
5, 'CM;/%fiSi;ry'=confectionary. St X79, L x, *broackd' 
= opened — see Glossarial Index, s.v. St x8o, L i, 
'/Kf/Zln/' s jostled. St 189. 1. 9, '/orf^' = noble- 

e^rted or noble-bearing. St. X89, L 6, * TusHve ' s 
ercules. St X9a, L 6, 'fWf/'^' 2 reveiltod — see 
Glossarial Index, s.v. St 904, 1. i. *ingencrat€' s 
innate. St 991. 1. 5, * corsive * = corrosive. St 89a, L 
4, 'y^m/' = foolish. St 934, L X, 'fv/^/ '—-see Glos- 
sarial Index, S.V. St 939, 1 3, */elV s fierce, terrible. 
St 949, L 9, '/actors' s agents. St 944, 1. x, * Beck' 
s beckoning, or intimation of will St 943, L 4, * pur- 
ling '—s/ot Glossarial Index s.v. for a fuU note and 
parallels. St. 946, 1. 5, 'hankering,' ibid, St 959, L 4, 

* trimm'd' =Bdonxed, St 956. L 4, 'rampant* = 
exuberant.— G. 



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mi*<PAMfA^fA^m9ki!f^mmf^mmmmmm^mm^mmm. 



CANTO V. 
The Pacification. 



The ARGUMENT. 
Love (Ml Hu YLfSaiX^part with Psyche treats, 
Wkoufair Tale Thdema and Agenor b€ick : 
And she deluded by their fauning cheats 
Makes league with them, and huggs her own mistahe. 
Then muJUng up Syneidesis at home. 
In wanton pride she joys abroad to rome. 



W 



I. 
THat boots it Man, that Nature's Courtesy 
Lifting his awfiil Looks high towards Heav'n. 
Hath bunt his Temples up with Majesty* 
And into 's Hand imperial Power given ? 
What royal Nonsenoe is a Diadem 
Abroad, for One who's not at home supreme? 



How do's this wide world mock him, when it lays 

Its universal Homage at his feet ; 

Whom whilst the Air, the Earth, the Sea obeys, 

A saucy pack of Passions dare to meet 
With plain defiance ; and presume to hope 
His Empire shall go down, their Pleasure up. 



How miserably fond 's the Vaunt, that He 
On every Monstrous Thing his Conquests builds ; 
That Tlgres, Lions, Dragons, foroM be 
By Him to learn submission ; That he wields 
Art's moving Mountains, and through widest Seas 
Commands his Ships to reach what World he please : 



If his own Vessel's helm unruly grow, 
And fling him mto fiital Tempest's jaws ; 
If his domestic Slates disdain to bow 
Their worthless necks to his most equal Laws ; 
And fill his Court with more outrageous Beasts 
Than are the Salvage Desert's wildest guests : 



Alas poor Prince, whose feeble Royalty 
Becomes the game and Scoff of vilest Things I 
How much are Worms, who of themselves can be 
Intire Commanders, more substantial Kfaigs ! 
Intestine Rdsels never trouble Worms, 
But Psyche 's toa'd and ton with dvjl Storms. 



6. 



So toss'd, so torn ; that sadly now at last 
She finds the most unreasonable Dress, 
Which can a reasonable Soul invest. 
To be the light loose garb of Cardesness ; 
Whose gently-looking beauties only do 
Inamour Ruin, and Destruction wo. 



She from her Palace-window saw her Grief 
Muster'd in terrible battalia t 
In vain within she hunted for relief 
Where only empty Desolation lay : 
Legos and Thelema were absent. He 
To violence Pris'ner. to Enchantment she. 

8. 
At home indeed Syneidesis stay'd still. 
But by her stay made Tortures do so too ; 
For she the guilt of this Rebellion full 
In wounded Psyche's face fear'd not to throw. 
Blame not the Passions, said she, if they 
Revolt ; You to their Treason op'd the way. 



Had you been careful how your Might to wield. 

And in due time approv'd your self a Queen ; 

Your royal Chariot's reins strait had you held. 

And resolutely driv'n ; your Beasts had been 
Themsdves, as loyal still to you and mild. 
As now they traiterous are become and wild. 

la 

When in a stealing preface to the flood 
The first Streams slfly creep ; with ease may we 
Reduce the Straglers to their proper road : 
But if we slight what seems so weak to be. 
They grow upon us strait ; disdaining more 
Our strength, than we their weakness did before. 

II. 

Your Greatness scom'd those breeding Garboils ; you 

Forsooth on Sa/et/s wings sate mounted high. 

And what 's that silly Rivulet come to now ? 

What wants it of a Sea's immensity? 
A Sea it is : which though perhaps it may 
Not cleanse your Crime, can wash your Life away. 



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12. 

How many a foul Rq>ulse did I Digest. 

And still with fiuthfui constancy pursue 

My Dutie's part 1 how often have I prest 

For timely Justice <m that mutinous Crew ! 
But in my Counsels I was too severe : 
Yes, doubtless ; witness all those Rebels there. 

13- 

And where is Charts, where is Pkylax now ? 

O you were too secure their aid to need ; 

And wdl could spare them for poor Heav'n, since you 

In your own Reahn a Sovereign are indeed. 
The case is plain ; See how your SubjecU stand 
With ready duty waiting your Command. 

14- 

Unhappy PtycJu stung by these reproaches, 

Profoundly feds the wound dive in her heart ; 

Which with her blood her lamentations broaches. 

And thus she streameth out her double smart : 
Nay then I pardon Hum without, if Thou 
Upon my heavy Griefs more load dost throw. 

15. 

Cruel Symidisis, why stayd'st thou here, 
To grinde my dying Soul with nearer rage ? 
More mannerly 's Their Crime who vex me there 
At distance : Must my bosom be the stage 
Of thy more dangerous undermining Wrath, 
Which from my very heart digs out my Death ? 

16. 
Are these thy thanks to me ; whose lavour kept 
Thee next myself, and hugg'd thee in my breast? 
How little dream'd I that a Viper slept 
In this my nearest and my dearest Nest I 

Yet be assnr'd, by knawing thy out way. 

That thou thyself no less than me shalt slay. 

17. 
The Privilege of other Vipers Thou, 
More barbarous far, in vain expect'st ; for they 
To their fell Dames that decent Vengeance ow 
Which by sage Natures righteous Law they pay. 

But surely Thou art of a kinder breed ; 

Thy Matricide all pardon must exceed. 

18. 
Yet what gain I by seeing Thee undone. 
Or those thy fellow-Elves who there rebel? 
Unfortunate me, who cannot die alone. 
But in my single Death all yours must feel I 

Thus Miserie's prodigious Riddle, I 

Am now betrayed oft at once to die. 

19- 
But this is all the pity Princes find 
When Rebels once are grown as strong as bold : 



All faults and all miscarriages are joyn'd 

Into one cruel odious Mass, and roU'd 
Upon their Sovereigns* Badu ; although thdr sin 
Hath nothing but their too mmeh Gcodntss been. 

30. 

Here stem Symidesis, who knew fiill well 
She on iirefragable Truth did lay 
The ground of all her actions, 'gan to swell 
With confident Scorn ; and yet a while gave way. 
Since she her sharp but loyal part had dpne 
To see what Psyche meant : who thus went on : 

21. 
O Chasrist would'st not thou bid me adieu. 
But by discourteous parting, leave my heart , 
Unarm'd. because unwamM? Grant it true 
That thou no reason read'st in my desert 
To stay thee here ; my misery at least 
Might woo thy Charity to be my Guest 

23. 

Wilt thou abandon me. o Phylax too. 
Who hast so oft 'twixt me and danger spread 
Thy Wing's impenetrable Shidd ? That Foe 
On whom thy Conquest in the Grove did tread, 
Waa but a single fiend : why then shall thy 
Brave Hand not reap this fairer victory? 

How shall I grapple with this armM crew 
Confederate against my desolate head. 
Whom one smug Cheater did so soon subdue ? 
What reason then soever wing'd thy speed 

To my Relief, is multlpUM here : 

What lames thy pity now, what deaft thine ear ? 



O Primes of this my consecrated breast, 

thou whose Majesty did not disdain 
A suit to worthless me. but oft profest 
By thy Ambassador thy amorous pain 

And sweet-tormenting longings for my Love : 
What makes thy tender Heart foigetfiil prove? 

Hadst thou for ever not remembred me, 

1 had not mocked been with Taste of Bliss. 
Why did not Afkrodisius's Treachery 
Prevent the worse extremity of this? 

That soft and single death why dy'd not I, 
But am reserv'd a thousand times to die ? 

26. 
Some happiness of misery it were, 
Might I be murder'd by my barbarous foes : 
But must my homebred Powers the Standard rear 
Against my Life? Must I be shun by those 
Who by my influence live, and who must die 
Unless I 'scape thdr mad Conspiracy. 



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27. 

What gain aocroes to my Soul's Treasury 

That I so long did Fast, so often Pray? 

What brake that BotUe wont of old to be 

The Store-house of Devotion's tears? what Pay 
Have all my faithful amorous groans and sighs, 
If I must prove mine own slave's sacrifice? 

28. 
What meant this Token, which did gird my heart 
So dose to thee, who casts me now away 1 
Was this the Carewel thou didst me impart 
When thou some other Love hadst chose, which may 
Monopolise thy constant favors, and 
In banish'd Psyche's place for ever stand ? 

29. 

No wonder if my Passions mntinous prove. 

Breaking that yoke which bound their Faith to me ; 

If blessed Jesus can unty his Love 

Knit in this spousal-knot of Chastity. 
Hoi%can I longer be displeas'd with them, 
Unless I could and dar'd CeJI out with Him ? 

Am I unworthy? so I was before : 
Yet he vouchsafd my Nothing to accept 
Sure then, I now am sunk beneath the poor 
Region of vilest nothing, and have kept 

But what is worse than nullity, a mere 

Capacity, Calamities to bear. 

31. 
O an my Joys, take Psyche's long adieu, 
And find some dwelling where you may have room : 
My tumid Griefs have left no place for you, 
But made my whole usurpM heart their home ; 
And more than so ; far must you get you hence 
To 'scape my Sorrows* vast circumference. 

32. 
And you, poor Hopes, your time no longer loose 
In hankering here in my despairing breast : 
Away, away unhappy things, and choose 
In any place but this a fortunate Nest 
Be confident your choice can never ezr, 
For all Misfirtunts are collected here. 

33. 
But rage, rage on, o my DisctmsolaHoiUt 
For I resign myself your total Prey : 
Some ease 'tis to defy Woe's Insultations, 
When stiU to look, and look in vain, for Joy, 
Doubles self-torment : why should I alone, 
When all things hate me else, my self bemoan ? 

34. 
Whilst thus she fines in desolate vexations. 
The Rebels at their Council busy were : 

46 



Where tir'd with hard and knotty Consultations 
Which way their traiterous design to steer ; 
Up rose Suspicion, and first looking over 
Each shoulder, thus her judgment did discover : 

35. 
Princely Agenor, in Truth's sober scale 
Weighty and great 's the work we have in hand ; 
Let not our caution then be light or small : 
Haste may be good, when once we understand 

The way is dear ; if otherwise, to run. 

Is only with more speed to be undone. 

36. 

Hope's Arguments are plausible ; but yet 
She, flitting She, alone is their foundation : 
I doubt our Enterprise's base will not 
Stand sure on any thing but Demonstration. 
I should be loth to fight, but where I may 
Do something more than hope to win the day. 

37. 
Anger's Advice is sound, if Psyche were 
So weak a Prince as her opinion makes her : 
But on what Rocks shall we our Vessd steer, 
By this untried Card, if she mistakes her ? 
Fear, would she speak, oould shew you such a List 
Of Psyche's Powers, as soon would cool our haste. 

38. 

Alas, how can we force her hold, if She 

Deny to yield when we our Battery make ? 

Are not those Walls and Gates apparently 

Of pure immortal Metal ? We may break 
Our Engins and our plots and fiiry too, 
And sooner our own selves than her undo. 

39. 
A lingering Leaguer, what can that effect. 
Unless we dream at length to starve her out ? 
But she long since to throw secure n^lect 
On all the Dainties of the world was taught. 
Her Prayers and her Heaven her diet were, 
And now she's strait besieg'd, she best doth fare. 

40. 
But as for us who at the si^e must lie, 
We, fed with hope of Victory, must starve 
Before we get it : for with what supply, 
Or whence shall we provided be to serve 

So many mouths ; which Psyche fiU'd till now ; 

And if ^e up be shut, they roust be too. 

41. 
The Senses true and trusty are ; but these 
Can lend us no assistance here, so narrow 
And difiicult are all the passages 
Which hither lead : Besides, could they march thorough, 

They by our hands must fight, not by their own. 

And do no more than we may act alone. 



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42. 
I could be confident, were but the Qutem 
Divorc'd from all her friends : but well I know 
That she her Tell-irmth keepeth still within. 
And by her Oracle perhaps may grow 
Too wise for us ; for sage SytuitUHs^ 
In all her Councils deep and sober is. 

43. 

Nay who can tell but some of her Allies 
Pkylax or Charts, or some other friend 
May rush upon our backs, and by surprize 
Both our Design and us in pieces rend? 

Fresh is the Lesson in the Grove we read ; 

Can you foiget how AfMrodisiui sped? 



Besides, y' have heard of /ftaven's immortal San 
Whose sovereign band ho]ds/aUs Bndppwer's rein : 
That hand which when great Lmci/tr begun 
To let his eyes but glimmer with disdain ; 
Tumbled him headkmg into Death and Hell : 
I tell yon friends, that Okrist k>ves Psyeki well. 

45- 

Since then apparent hazards dose attend 
Our rightdown force ; I cannot find how we 
Shall answer Wisdom's scraples, if we bend 
Against her castle our Artillery. 
Should we at first be worsted, what Recruit 
Can heal our Anny, or our crack'd Repute ? 

46. 

Fear not that we should prove too wary : I 

For my part judge the safest way the best : 

And this is by a present Embassy 

With humble Lies and Oaths and Gk»ings drest ; 
To cheat her from her strength, and wisely gain 
Our ends, yet seem to 'scape Rebdlioo's stain. 

47- 
But let a vow of Perseverance ficst 
Seal us all sure to our Conspiracy ; 
That they aforehand may be self-accurst 
Whoe'r shall fidnt or fialse Apostates be. 

If one should basely fail, why may not two? 

If two, why may the sum not higher grow? 

48. 

This said : An eye of learing Doubt she cast 

Upon Agimcr, to observe how He 

Relish'd her words : But soon she saw their taste 

In 's palate welcome found ; for instantly, 
I like her Council best he cries, and you 
Shall strengthen your Adventure by a vow. 

49. 
Thus shall my might avoid, what most I fear'd, 
The vile enconntre with a Woman ; and 



No less to you my Pity be dedar'd, 
Whilst in your fixint my Majesty doth stand ; 
And strflce such terror, ev'n without a blow, 
As to your Plot shall make your Empress bow. 

50. 
Then calling for a Bason and a Pin, 
He pricks his annular finger, and lets frdl 
Three drops of blood : strait, 'tnhBt he thus begun 
As solemnly reacted was by all 
The Company ; which done, again he takes 
The Bason, and three elevations makes. 

51. 

And may the total streams of blood behind 
Be forc'd to follow these three drops, he cry'd ; 
If ever I unbend my resolute Mind, 
Or from this War's stout prosecution slide. 
May this my present poison be (and here 
He dipp'd his tongue) if I be not sincere. 

52. 

Then sprinkling on the back of his right hand 
Another drop : this martial mark, said he. 
Shall for a badge and memorandum stand 
Of our resolv'd and sacred Unity. 
You see our Covenant's Rites : Now every One 
Do what your willing General has done. 

53. 

No joUy Health more chearly walk'd iu round 
When lusty Wine and Mirth the boul had fiD'd ; 
Than did this bloody barbarous Bason, cniwn'd 
With Rage and madness. Their Rebellion aeai'd 
Thus by this desperate Ceremony, they 
To Pf/cki, speed the Messenger away. 

54. 
And this was Z^cv, on whose quaint tongue although 
There dwelt perpetual fallacies and sleights ; 
Yet with industrious Deceptions now 
And study'd flatteries her mouth she baits : 
She knew the Quan was wise and strong and would 
With common known Delusions not be fool'd. 

55. 

Thus to the gate demurely come, she try'd 
It with a modest knock, and paus'd a while : 
Then dropping a more timorous stroke, she hid 
In this soft Pre&ce her meek-insolent guile. 
The gentle Knocks bad PsyeJkt ooumge take 
To oome and see what they would fiirther speak. 

No sooner had she op'd a wicket, and 
Reach'd out her doubtful Eye the News to know ; 
But she beheld the Maiden trembling stand 
With weqsing eyes, and with dejected brow. 
She lik'd the posture ; yet demanded why 
She thither came, a false and fanning Spy ? 



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57. 
Lave by that word akrm'd. to skrew her art, 
Fell on her knees, and smote her bowM breast ; 
And, Wo is me, she cry'd, whose loyal heart 
By my most dear, though ireful Sovereign's thrust 
Quite thro' and thro' 1 What strange mischance doth 



This wrong on Me, and that mistake on You ? 

58. 
If thus to visit you in humblest guise 
Who here immured dwell in Desolation ; 
If to discover where the Error lies 
Whose secret Venom breeds this Perturbation 

Of your whole Realm, deserve the name of Spy ; 

I weO can bear this glorious Infomy. 

59- 

But if Suspicion so deludes your eyes, 
That, looking with a jealous glance on me, 
They in my Count'nance read an Enemjr's ; 
Just leave I crave to tell your Majesty 
(For it concerns my essence,) you forget 
Your Creature, and take Love itself for Hate. 

6o. 

Yet your mistake shall force no change fai me ; 

Use your vast pow'r wherever else you please. 

I still am Lovet and so resolve to be, 

Not fearing that false envious witnesses 
Can swear me from myself : Heav'n cannot frame 
What I had rather be than what I am. 

6l. 
Sure I with that right genuine Love which you 
Hug next your soul, have some affinity ; 
Adulterate can that virgin Passion, grow. 
And stain its spotless self with Treachery ? 

Can Odours stinking, Honey bitter be. 

Silk harsh, Down hard, that thus you judge of me ? 

62. 
Can hatred-hating Lambs imploydd be 
The message of blood-thirsty wolves to bear ; 
And that, (with self-destroying villany) 
To their own best-deserving Shepherd's ear ? 
Can mildest Doves upon an errand from 
Rapacious Kites, and salvage Vultures come? 

63. 

no, mindfwnhig Scvtreign ; I am seht 
The soft Ambassador of Pttce to you : 
Nor of my Office must it me repent 

What wrath soe'r stands bent in your stem brow : 
And though I know not what will hence ensue, 
I to my native sweetness must be true. 

64. 

1 see yon fear'd your MewUfen there had bent 
Some tFBit'roDS foree against their royal Head: 



And is 't not likely they would all consent 
Their own heart-blood and life in yours to shed ? 
Madam, believe 't. Self 's not a dearer Name 
To noble You, than to the worst of Them. 

65. 

Might I be bold to judge, (and may I speak 
Under your favor's shelter.) I should swear 
Your Highness now is only pleas'd to take 
Suspicion's mask, and try how they will bear 
A forg'd imaginary guilt ; since in 
Their fSoithful breasts, you find no real sin. 

66. 

'Tis true, a piece of Discontent hiis put 

Them in that posture of Defence : but hf 

Heav'n, and more heav'nly You, they brew no plot 

But what becomes true Subjects' modesty. 
Were mischief their Design, what Power's charms 
Now dead their hands and damp their glittering arms ? 

67. 

If strong-embatteTd injured Patience be 
A sign of Tteason ; they are Traytors all : 
But surely this self-bridling Treachery 
Doth more for thanks and praise, than anger call. 
O never be it said, that you alone 
Could in arm'd wkdkness read Re^iHon. 

68. 

Though Heav'n's Angelic Army ranged stand 

In fair array, their martial order does 

Not tempt their Sovereign's wise thoughts to brand 

Them with the odious character of Foes. 
Let then, that Copy, justify their fact. 
Who Bnatd are to Bear» and not to Act 

69. 

Else their full Torrent hither flowM had, 

And made a Deluge of what 's now a Drop. 

What shift could your craft's or strength's banks have 

made 
So fierce a Tide of Violence to stop ? 

But now their Faith and Truth their Power aw. 

And only Duty is their martial Law. 
70. 
For they bf me their Homage send, and prey 
Your Highness would with it their Suit embrace ; 
Changing their tedious Nights into their Day, 
Their only Day which riseth from your Ceioe ; 

And deigning to go forth and see how they 

Their panting souls, before your feet will lay. 



Here breaking off in deep deceitful sighs. 
With cunning tears she all her face bedew'd. 
But toss'd and rack'd in ambiguities, 
Ten thousand several thoughts poor PsycMe chew'd : 

Weeping at length, O that thoft Tters of thihe. 

She cry'd, were as sihoers and true as mine 1 



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72. 

If those Dissemblers now would Suters be. 

What mean proud Anns and warlike Preparation ? 

Petitions sore should from the bended knee, 

Not from the Bow be shot : this sullen fashion 
Stout Rogues brought up, who begging with one 
A stone bear in the other to command. 

73. 
In front why is that burly Strangtr set 
As Ckmrui against your Scvirtign f 
He whose heav'n-daring Looks proclaim him fit 
Not to request and sue, but to disdain. 

If I were longer to be trusted, why 

Chose you his Banner for security? 

74. 
Yet that the Pi og re ss of your Treason may 
Want all pretence, as its Commencement did ; 
I '1 condescend to hear you say your say. 
Provided you yourselves in quiet spread 

Before my window : I must parley there ; 

You know how you have us'd ray messenger. 

75. 
Lflve stung by that last Word, and with fresh tears 
Dissembling their true cause, took humble leave; 
Then to her Complices the News she bears. 
Who it with doubtful countenance receive ; 
And boulting every Circumstance, conclude 
That still the same Device must be pursu'd. 

76. 

Agemar strait vouchaf 'd himself to shew 
In all his pomp, and more than was his own ; 
That Psyche might those vast TempUtions view 
Whkfa only swell'd so high to throw Her down. 
But none of all the Passions knew from whence 
He beck'ned, in his strange Magnificence. 

77- 
The glorious furniture's full flowing Stream 
FoDow'd his nod with like fodlity ; 
As in a dreaming brain light figures swim 
Into a Sudden Masque of Bravery. 

The Sight the Passions struck with joyful fear. 

And made ev'n Thtlewsa with reverence stare. 

78. 

Yet crafty He. though glad and proud to read 
Their admiration of his gorgeous Ly ; 
Told them they wrong'd his Honor, if they did 
Count this poor flash, his total Majesty. 
Which said, his Train he to the Castle drew, 
And there prepare for the Interview. 

79. 
At length six golden Trimipets' mouths affirm'd 
Their Master's Highness was at hand to treat. 



To her balcony Psyche thus alaim'd. 

Started ; and found the Noise was not so great 

As strange the Sight : She never, though a Queen. 

Such prodigality of Sute had seen. 

An half-ope Tent appear'd, whose Covering was 
Sumptuously rugged with Embroidery 
Of Pearls and Jewels ; in which various Gkiss, 
Titan, who needs would peep, had lost his Eye : 

But yet ten thousand He received for one ; 

For every Qem retum'd him bade a Sun. 

81. 

A fearful Texture of fierce Tapestry 

Pav6d the awful Floor with costly pride ; 

Where slaughter'd Lyons. Boars, and Bears did lie ; 

Confessing by whose martial Hand they dy'd : 
For every one had great Agemn's dart 
Deep sticking in his head, or in his heart. 

82. 
The Walls huug thick with War ; the noblest stories 
Whose valiant Actors e'r had honor'd Bays ; 
Were glistering there, not in unworthy glories : 
What Gold, and richer Stones could do to raise 

Them to their life again, being fredy tried ; 

Whilst Art as liberally her wealth supplied. 

83- 

Th' obedient Sun rein'd in his posting Hours 
On heav'n's steep side, at Joshua's strict Consmand ; 
Where to attend and to admire his Powen, 
This glorious Witness with fix'd Eye did stand. 
The Moon pull'd in her horns, nor dar6d they 
Push forth the Night. tHI He had got the Day. 

84. 

Close by, five Kings all prostrate gnaw'd the ground, 

Feeling his Captain's feet upon then* necks : 

And in a stately-miserable Round 

Were rangM other Princes, twenty six ; 
Whose Crowns lay all before his Helmet broke : 
Whose loppM Sceptres ru'd his iiaulchion's stroke. 

8s. 

There boistrous Samsom with his Asse's Jaw. 

(A wretched weapon could his Sinews not 

Mend his weak Tool by his most potent Blow.) 

A thousand Enemies devour^ : But 
With statelier Might, his brawny shoulders here 
Did Gtfja'j gates up Hebron mountain wear. 

86. 

And yet his last Exploit crown'd all the rest. 

When to the PrinUs fatal Sport he shew'd ; 

Turning their Banquet to their funeral Feast. 

When with their Wine their blood and bnOns he brew'd. 
As down he tean the mighty Theatre, 
The Hangings full of their own ruhis were. 



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87. 
Next him, a young and ruddy Champion flings 
Into GolioKs brow a shameful Death. 
There Terror's train vast IskHbenob brings 
Upon the Scene, shaking with monstrous wrath 

His baxbarous spear ; till AHshais brave Steel 

Hew'd down this Mount. — ^whose £edl forc'd Goth to 
reel 

88. 
There Sibbeckai on Sack's enormous Pride 
Stout vengeance takes. There mighty ElkaHam 
Drowns storming Lahmi in his own blood's tide. 
And there th' undaunted Blade of Jonathan 

Prunes the sixjlnger'd Gyant ; and requites 

The bold defiance he on Israel spites. 

89. 

An army to himself, Adino there 
Musters his Powers against eight hundred foes : 
Glad this great harvest he alone may share, 
About his daring work the Champion goes ; 
Nor stops his conquest till he quite has mown 
This total field of matchless Honor down. 

90. 

There Dodo*s S<m ; there Shammah keep their ground. 

Nor yield one inch to aU PkilisHa's host : 

The more shame spurr'd them on, the n^re they found 

They ventur'd only to their deadly cost ; 
For obstinate Victory attended here 
On SMammaKs Sword, on BkoMtr^s there. 

91. 

Btnaiah firom th' Egyptian Herat here 
Tears both his Spear and Life : He there divides 
Destruction twist a Lyon-faoM Pair 
Of Moabiits : His faulchion here he guides 
Into a real Lyon's heart, whose cave 
Where him he found, he left to be his grave. 

^• 

To BitkUhem there the dangtrscaming Thru 
Through all Philistia*s guards slash ope their way ; 
Fir'd with a stronger thirst of Victory, 
Then was their JCin^s of Water : Of their Prey 
They soom'd to foil, although they through a flood, 
—Advancing and retreating,— wade of blood. 

93. 

The other Work, the vaunting stories wore 

Of what He pleas'd about himself to lie : 

How many Gyants gasping in their gore 

Yielded Agenor, strange-form'd Victory 1 
How many Palms and Bays about him threw 
Themselves, ambitious of his Hand and Brow. 

94. 
What throngs of meek Ambassadors were there 
From every quarter of the a¥r6d Earth, 



Begging the favor of his royal ear 

Upon their Sutes for Peace ; and pouring forth 
The richest Giits their Countries could afford 
In earnest of their homage to their Lord/ 

95- 
Above his Scutcheon hung. In Aturt field 
A Lyon Or, with lightning in his paw; 
The crest was Fame, with cheeks and trumpet swell'd 
And wings display' d. His throne of Pearl below 
With sparkling earnestness strove to exceed 
The beams of those six Steps which to it led. 

96. 

The first was Plmtus, of substantial price ; 
The next Eugenia, in fancy high ; 
Callos the third, the ravisher of eyes ; 
The fourth Andria, swell'd with majesty ; 

The fift Podia, quainter than the rest ; 

Emsebia the sixt, of all the best. 

97. 
There sate the Gallant : one whole Diamond made 
His radiant Helmet ; and in wanton pride 
A gorgeous flood of Plumes about it play'd, 
Yet scom'd the kiss of any Wind ; aside 
They wav'd their heads and coyly seem'd to say, 
To every Blast : Your breath offends ; away. 

98. 

A stately Mantle's large expansion reach'd 
Down from his wide-spread shoulders to his feet ; 
And doth'd him with all splendors that are fetch'd. 
From eastern shores, the western Pearls to meet ; 
And by a rich conspiracy of beams 
Epitomise the World's estate of Gems. 

99. 
His Sword look'd lightning through iu crystal sheath. 
Whose round Hilt crown6d its victorious Blade : 
His mighty Sceptre, circled with a Wreath 
Of bloody Bays, right dreadfully he sway'd. 
The Ball in 's hand was swell'd to that degree 
As if it meant indeed th4 World to be. 

too. 

At 's right hand stood Disdain : tum'd was her Head 
Over her shoulder ; with contemptuous Eye 
Through gloomy frowns, her sullen mind she spread. 
And seeing, soom'd to see, the Company : 
Nor did she mend or mollify her brow. 
But when her Master's growing rough, she saw. 

101. 

At 's left stood spruce and gaudy Philanty, 

Whose thoughts dwelt on a crystal book she held 

Eternally, to her admiring Eye ; 

In which her foolish self she read, and smil'd 
On her fair Lesson ; though the brittle Glass 
Admonish'd her how vain her Beauty was. 



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I02. 

Before Him, on a golden piUar,— «t 

Whose massy foot a PRlra and Laurel grew. — 

Upon the hack of Triumph, Glory sate ; 

From whose full robes more dasling Lustre flew 
Than breaks from Pkahus' furniture, when he 
Through Camctr rides, in Juut's high gallantry. 

103. 
About him round his whole Retinue was 
Dispos'd in royal equipage : His own 
Attendants had the credit of the place 
Which gUtter'd nearest his illustrious throne ; 

Then with their cheated Leader TUUma 

Stood an the Passioms in battalia. 

104. 
Crafty Agmor having paus'd a while 
To give respect to his own state, and let 
Psyclu have time to swallow down the guile 
Which with such wimdng baits he had beset ; 

By soft and proud dc^grees voudiafd to stir. 

And being risen, thus accosted Her. 

105. 

Did Pify*s generous and Sovereign Law 

All spedous points of Honor not forbid ; 

Agenor must not have descended now 

To stand at Psyches gate ; but I am led 
Bdow myself by Virhu, that my Might 
May hdp these wronged PasHom to their Right. 

106. 

Tis Forinme's pleasure that thus casts me, on 
These merdfnl Designs, and I 'm content ; 
Pawu, famu 's my Ttade : this noble Bay alone 
My Pains expect : Indeed the common Rent 
By which my most renowned self I keep 
Are those Revenues, I from Glory reap. 

I<J7. 
And since these silly SwU mistook my Worth, 
And deem'd me but some single errant Knight ; 
I let this glimpse of what I am break forth, 
To teach their Error my authentic might 
Needs no supplies from them : This I^art of my 
Ne'rconquer'd Train dares Heav'n and Earth defy. 

108. 
How easily this Sword's devouring flame 
Might Saorifice you to my Wrath 1 but you 
Being a Female Thing, t hold it shame 
To make my Conquest's Honor stoop so low : 
I 'm loth the Worid should say, Agmor drew 
His Sword, and, like a Man, a Woman slew. 

109. 
In Woman's bk>od my Weapon never yet 
Bhuh'd for itt base Expk)it ; nor wiU it now 



By sordid >nctory discredit get 

Unless inforc'd hj ftrhtne, JdU, and you. 

And then I hope the justice of the Fight 

Win cover that dishonor of my Might. 

no. 

But I through Courtesy myself forget 

In lavishing thus fax my royal breath : 

Predous are Princes' Words ; nor is it fit 

Their Tongue should flow, whose nod or finger hath 
More decent Ek>qaenoe. Thus having spoken, 
He took his throne, and nodded Lovt her token. 

III. 
She knew her cue, and stepping gently forth 
Thus 'gan her Tale : Great Queen, since I must be 
My suppliant Sister's mouth ; o may this Earth 
Ope her's to close up mine, if falsity 
Break from my lips, or any fraud conceal 
What they, and truth, and justice bid me telL 

112. 

What Heav'n has made us, 'tis our bliss to be. 
And that 's your Subjects : though cross Error now 
A confident blot throws on our Loyalty ; 
The least of treacherous thoughu we disavow. 

What shouU the fond boi^ks gain, shoukl they 
combine 

Their desperate arms their root to nndennine? 

113. 

Yet your wise Majesty full wdl doth know 
That as yourself a free Prince are, so we 
Are freebom SubjecU : Nature's Laws allow 
In our sweet Commonwealth no Tynumy : 
She knew this mutual Liberty would bless 
Both Prince and Pteple, with joint happiness. 

114. 

When did a Realm of slaves unto their Prince 

The trusty sweetness of Love's homage pay ? 

When did a Tyrant with safe confidence 

Rely upon his Vassals ? None but they 
Can fairly Rule, and fairly RuMd be, 
Whom freedom's bonds ty up in Monarchy. 

IIS. 

But what broad Innovations of late 

Rush'd in, and justled out our Liberty, 

O that we could not feel 1 Had it been/i/tf 

Which thrust on us this boistrous Misery, 
We had been silent : but we know what Hands 
Have stol'n our freedom, and by whose commands. 

116. 
Nor I, nor any of my Sisiirs were 
Suflfer'd oursdves in quiet to possess : 
We might not Love, nor Hate, nor Hope, nor Fear. 
We might not taste Revenge or Joyfulness, 

Or any thing which pleas'd not them who had 

A Prey of aU oar Mvflc^es made. 



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117. 

Sordy we all had legal Htle to 

What ours by reverend Natures bounty was ; 

Yet anatcb'd from thenoe, poor we were press'd to go 

And senre abroad we knew not where, alas I 
Nor e'r shall know ; for how should we comprise 
Mysterious Things and Matters of the Skies t 

118. 
Nor is this sad case only Ours, who are 
Inlanders here : Your Subjects too abroad, 
Who at your Cinque-ports with perpetual care 
In-gathering your rqyid customs stood, 
Are gaU'd with like Oppressions : and they 
I^y'd us, with ours, their Grievance to display. 

119. 
They have not leave, (poor leave) to hear, or see, 
Or smell, or taste, or fed, what is their own : 
But cfaain'd in deep unnatuxBl slavery 
Of their starv'd lives and selves are weary grown : 

Yet more than all this Grief their hearts doth break. 

That FUfy itself must prove theur Rack. 

12a 
They nrast a new Devotion learn, and be 
Tortur'd with Watchings, Prayers and Prostrations ; 
With Ceremonies of pale sanctity. 
With Fastings and severe Mortifications : 

Or if this superstitkin they refuse 

Some mulct, the poor Confessors' backs must bruise. 

121. 
Had they been temper'd to the purity 
Of brisk and active Angels, they might all 
Manage spiritual Tasks, and weanM be 
Ftom every gross Material Breast : but shall 
Matter's own oflf^spring be Delinquents made. 
Beca u s e in their own native sphere they trade? 

122. 
And by what Law must honest They or We 
Under this Arbitrary power Ue ? 
Where is your fredixMii Subjects' Liberty 
Who have no freedom left, unless to die? 

And surdy Death a greater blessing were 

Than such a Ltfe as we all die in here. 

123. 
Mistake not, gradous Sovereign, what I speak, 
As if I chaig'd the guilt of this our Wrong 
On your just Soul : No ; let my heartstrings crack 
With their own torments' load, before my Tongue 
Grow black with such a slander : you, alas 1 
Involved, a sufferer are in our sad case. 

124. 
A sufferer in that which nearest lies 
And dearest unto every Prinet's heart : 



Your royal Honor in our Miseries 

Is rack'd and tortur'd, and torn part from part. 
Ask not, by whom? 'tis too notorious what 
Bold Charmers in your Qourt command had got. 

125. 
Logost that Wiley fox, screw'd all his skill 
Daily to make both ]rou and us his prey : 
Some handsome Tale or other he would tdl 
Which foiriy might to your mistake betray 
Your unheard Subjects : from your highness thus 
He stole your ear, our Liberty from us. 

126. 

His Majors, Minors, Maxims, DemonsiraHons, 
With most profound deodt he gravdy drest ; 
And by these sage and reverend Conjurations 
Pour'd Crudty into your dement breast. 
His mischief-hatching Plots seem'd sober Reason, 
Which in the Passims must have gone for Treason. 

127. 
Hence issu'd those Commands which day by day 
Illegal Burdens on our backs did throw ; 
And to this sad necessity betray 
Our loth loth Souls, observing Gall to flow 
From Honey's hive : for though all warrants came 
From his fdl hand, they wore your gentle Name. 

128. 

Some woful comfort it had been if we 

Had to that single Tyranny been damn'd : 

But we at honu in forem slavery 

Were yoak'd ; A Grievance we would not have nam'd 
In reverence to your Credit, could the thing 
Have ea^ grown by our long suffering. 

129. 

For what 's that Charis unto us, that She 

In our Free State such arrogant svmy must bear? 

Or what, and why are royal you, if we 

Must be commanded by a Foreigner? 
We grant she 's brave and princely ; yet we know 
We owe allegiance to no Qiuen but you, 

130. 
She came from heav*n, if we her word may take ; 
But what should woo her from so fair a place 
To dwell in this ignoble World, and make 
Her high self stoop to such profound Disgrace? 
I would be loth to wrong her ; yet I fear 
There 's something in't, why Heav'n gat rid of Her. 

And was 't a heav'nly trade which here she drove 

In plotting how to barbarize your breast 

^^th strange Austerity ; and to remove 

Us from your love, viith which we once were blest ? 
Your smiles she all monopolix'd, and left 
Us quite of all things but your Hate bereft. 



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132. 

Surdy our Patienoe was our Crime, and she 

Only because we were content to bear, 

Increas'd the burden of our Misery : 

And then, to seal our Torture with a Jear, 
She prais'd our Woes' deep hell, as if by it 
In heav'n's high-way we had been fairly set. 

133- 

If this Devotion be, and heav'nly Zeal, 

What, what is Savageness t Alas that we 

None but destructive Piety must feel. 

And by Religion consumed be I 
Alas that Heav'n and Godliness must thus 
Be mock'd and wrested and abus'd with us ! 

134. 
Nor has proud Phylax us'd less dangerous art 
To coxen you into this Tyranny : 
Soft are his Wings, but cruel is his heart ; 
Sweets in his Looks, stings in his bosom lie ; 

Fair do's he spealc you. for that Bait 's the cheapest ; 

His Streams run smoothest where the Chanel 's deepest. 

135. 
Were you a youngling, and devoid of FHends 
Whose riper arms might help your tender hand 
To sway the Sceptre's load ; what he pretends. 
With tolerable sense perhaps might stand : 

But must your Nonage know no bounds, and He 

For evermore the Lard Prottctor be ? 

136. 

Now by your Honor, mighty Quum, 'tis time 
For you no more to think yourself a Child. 
Know, know your own authentic Power, and Him 
Who has your Love and it too long beguU'd : 

'Tis no discredit for a Prince to throw 

Away an Error, and with it a Foe. 

137. 

Your Confidence in Him, which flames so high, 

Was kindled by his service in the Grove. 

Yet what if that were but a Mystery 

Of envious fraud, and no Exploit of Love? 
If Phyiax, and not Aphrodisius were 
In all that scene of Charms the Conjurer? 

138. 

Who but the noble Aphrodisius there 
His own dear life right generously forgot. 
And from fierce Death wide-gaping in the Boar 
Rescu'd your helpless soul ? And O, from what 

Did Phylax snatch you, but from his Embrace 

Who your Deliverer and Lover was. 

139- 
And then inrag'd with shameless spi|^t to see 
You to another your protection owe. 



He on the courteous stranger's Piety 
Blush'd not the dregs of magic Power to throw : 
How much more Monster was your Phylax there. 
Who made the goodly Knight so foul appear. 

140. 
Long since we could have told you this ; but we 
Dar'd not ev'n necessary Truth profess 
Till Arms had sheltred us : least cruel he 
Should both our tongues and lives by foroe suppress : 
For well he knows, he must no m<M« be known 
Where once he 's into open knowledge grown. 

141. 

Yet we could brook it, would he only try 

His charms on Aphrodisius, and forbear 

To exercise on us his Witchery : 

But we alas so metamorphos'd are 
With that rough-cast of shapes he on us cleaves. 
That you in your own Subjects he deceives. 

142. 

We too like Fiends (for Rebels sure are so) 

Presented are to your abused eye : 

Although ev'n Phylax in his heart doth know 

Our Lives are not so dear as Loyalty 
To honest -meaning us : And whose was this 
Desp'rate Enchantment, if it were not His? 

143. 
*Tis true, he talks of Love ; and needs will be 
The ParanymphMS of the heavenly Spouse: 
But surely I should ken as well as he 
All Mysteries of Love : your Highness knows 
That my Creation only aims at this : 
And is my natural Art less mine than His ? 

144. 

That Love's own glorious Prince makes love to you. 

As to the dearest she that treads his earth ; 

I dare not question, since so well I know 

Your Majestie's incomparable worth. 
But heav'n forbid that I should Him esteem 
So strange a Spouse as Phylax makes of Him. 

145. 
Sure he is King of Sweetness and Delight, 
And with more seal abhors all Tyranny 
Than Phylax loves it : Sure His gentle Might 
Desires a correspondent victory. 

Not all the world shall make me think that He 

Will ever woo his Spouse by Cruelty. 

146. 
Lents, Embers, Vigils, Groans, Humicubations ; 
Tears, Pensiveness, disconsolate Privacy ; 
Sad silence. Sourness, and self-«bnegations ; 
Are not conditions required by 

An earthly suiter ; and can heav'nly He 

Imbitter thus his suit's dear suavity ? 



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147. 
Can he expect his tender Spouse should prove 
Her loyalty to pant with pure affection, 
By nothing but Self-hatred? Can his Love 
Find no security but your destruction 7 
Pardon my fear, grtai Qutm, you love not him 
Whom such a spigkijul Lover yon can deem. 

148. 
Bat fiu* be sudi black omens hence : Had I, 
Or this wide world, one Glass, which could present 
Your total Self to your considering eye ; 
The gaUant sight would make your heart repent 
This dangerous heresy, that Heav'n*s gmtU King 
Would use so harshly such a hvefy Thing. 

149. 
What was there of Serene, of Bright, of Sweet, 
Of Soft, of Beauteous, in this world below. 
Or that above ; which did escape the gxeat 
CrtaUn's studious fingers, when on you 

Himself he wrote, and bad your Person be 

The Universe's rich Epitome ? 

150. 

But Pkfla* brews this cruel-flattering Plot. 

Because it is his rack, and hell, to see 

Fortune or Fate so rare a Bride allot 

To any Spouse but him : Hence, hence is he 
So subtly active in his secret Art 
How he may you and your great SuiUr part 

151. 
Fart you he will, if he can thus intice 
Your thoughu and Judgment to be Tmytors, and 
Charm you your Lor^s affoctions to despise 
By scorning Us ; who, had not his dear Hand 

Bestow'd Us on yon, had not now tiv'd here 

This Mass of cruel Injuries to bear. 

152. 
O then, O, first for your own royal sake. 
And next for ours, wrapp'd up hi you, beware 
Of his Designs in time : Just courage take, 
In what deserves your speediest, stoutest care. 
Nor you nor vre can be secure, till he 
Both from your Court and Favor banish'd be. 

153. 
Nor can your Plslaoe be a dweUing-plaoe 
For Saftty, whilst pragmatic Z^fw, or 
Sly Charts revel in your Princely Grace. 
One Edict may dispatch them all, and far 

FVom this their stage of holy treachery 

Pack their incurable Hypooisy. 

154. 
So shall your Sovereign Self securely dwell. 
And your hnpartlal undeodvM Hand 

46 



Sway its own Sceptre : So shall we dispel 
By low obedience to your high Command 

That groundless Error, which hath stamped thus 

Rdxllion's ugly brand on faithful Us. 

155. 

So shall our rescu'd Liberties appear 
In their own looks, when We by love shall do 
More of your Will than dishigenuous fear 
And lawless lynanny e'r hal'd us to. 
So you for Rigor shall not dreaded be. 
But reign acknowledg'd Quun of CUmauy, 

156. 

So shall your sweetned Countenance proclaim 
That Love's dear trade sincerely you profess : 
So shall your eyes court with their answering flame 
YovttSpoits/s beams ; so shall His tenderness 
Meet due capacity in your soft heart 
Of his destroying, yet enlivening Dart. 

157. 
Here, with a kiss upon the ground, her stop 
The crafty Pleader made. But thousand Doubts 
Hurry'd and toss'd uncertain Psyche up 
From one side to another of her thoughts. 
Three times she op'd her mouth ; but jealous fears 
Would suffer her to speak by nought but tears. 

158. 

'TIS true, Syneidesis had prick'd her on 

With fiuthful importunity ; yet still 

She found her fed>le self too much alone ; 

For though she had Desires, she had no Will. 
O no t her If7i/ was with the ROels, and 
She now in arms against her self did stand. 

159- 
Which when Agenor vpfA, he with his eye 
Gave Thelema commission to succeed. 
She, marehing forth in portly policy, 
Spun out the rest of Lov^s decdtftil thread : 
And. Well I know, great Queen, said she, that you 
Much wonder I should come a Tteater now. 

160. 
I grant you sent me with express Command 
To force your seeming Pebels back again. 
And make them fed that your illustrious Hand 
Is moderatrix of the regal Rein : 

And I believ6d them for Peiels too ; 

So mudi your Error on my faith could do. 

161. 
But when I found thefa' Loyalty as dear 
As bhur'd it seem'd, in Misconstruction's gkss ; 
I, who was but th' faitrusted Officer 
Of Right and yusHce, had no power to pass 
My strict Commission ; and what need I prove 
What was so solidly confiim'd by Love f 

M 



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163. 

I must confess, when well I marfc'd that store 
Of honest bravery of which poor They 
Were, with the Sensts robb'd« I could no more 
To their proiolc'd Impatience Treason lay. 
Than to the Earth's, when her chink'd month she opes 
At Sirius, who bums up her flowiy hopes. 

163. 
Yet wron«:ed They were generous, and to Me 
The choice of all their choicest Wealth did proffer. 
That by my hand it mig^t commended be 
To wait on you ; and here tbdr Gift I offer. 

If it and them you scorn, yet must not I 

Be guilty of such proud Discourtesy. 

164. 

Forthwith she op'd the Scene, whence stream^ out 

The Confluence of that gorgeous fidlacy. 

Which on her heedless soul before had wrought 

Strait, as the sweetly-rolling Tide grew hi£^. 
The stream bore Psych* down ; as sudden Light 
Setseth, by too much day. the eyes with night. 

165. 

Agmor, glad to see her daxell'd by 

The flash of those varieties, arose ; 

And. while she rubb'd and question^ her eye, 

Seald that Imposture with this specious Close : 
Wonder not Madam, but repent, that you 
Your Subject's goodly Homage scom'd till now. 

166. 

To gratify the Weakness of your sex, 
Let that be your excuse ; I am content 
If now you ease your gallM Subjecu' necks 
And crown their just Demands with your Assent. 

That Pity to their Wrongs you see me lend, 

To your repented Error shall extend. 

167. 
The love which to mine own Queen glues my heart. 
Makes it to every other Lady kind. 
For her dear sake I will to you impart 
Rich Testimonies of my tender mind. 

I know she '1 thank me when I come at home. 

That in my mercy I have made you room. 

168. 
Behold my Mine of Wealth : from hence will I 
This Peace with precious Tokens consecrate, 
And your, howe'r unequal. Majesty 
As my Confederate own : Though potent /liif 
Makes me a Martial Prince, I 'd rather win 
By sweetness, than by churlish Force, a Queen. 

169. 
Though Htav'n above sometimes by Thunder fiighta 
And breaks its foes ; yet by mild Patience 



And bounteous favors oftner it delights 

The heart of OpposUiw to convince. 
And, Ux this once, I hope 'twill not disgrace 
My might, that I Htav'm's gentle Conquests trace. 

170. 
Ope then your Gates : Or, if my Kindness be 
A price too mean to buy your Acceptation, 
Tell me but so : I can more easfly 
Force than Intreat : This warlike Preparation 
With greater pains wins on it self to make 
This pause, than it will cost your Fort to take. 

171. 
What hdp for Psycht now, whom Power hurries. 
And Charms allure into Destruction's pit 1 
With heart-misgiving Thoqgfau a while she wonies 
And struggles not to fear the one. nor yet 

Imbrace the other : but away at last 

Her Resokition and her self she cast. 

172. 

Pull down thy foolish crest, vain Son of Dust, 

And in this Glass thy feeble Wonnship see. 

What other pledge can to thy wavering trust 

Committed be, when by self-treadiery 
Thou yieldest up thy wretched heart a prise 
To them whose Pow'r in thy Concession lies. 

173. 
I like the Terms, right noble Sir, she cries. 
And in my high esteem for ever must 
Inshrine and reverence these Courtesies 
Of your Magnificence. Which said, in haste 

Her Safety she unbars, and to begin 

Her thanks, flii^ ope her Gate and calls Him in. 

174- 
Agtnor sheath'd his mighty Sword, and bid 
The Passiams put up theirs, and mandi before. 
In modest order they thus enterM : 
He with his swelling Train approach'd the Door ; 

But seem'd to cast a suriy look aside. 

Because it was not more sublime and wide. 

175- 

With princely slowness thus arrivM ; Her 

He sternly wills her royal Seal to pat 

To those Conditions which agreM were, 

And in a gilded parchment ready writ. 
She xan them over with a smiling eye. 
And strait set Seal to her own Slavery. 

176. 
Which done ; To Thdsma the Instrument 
She gave, with fiill Comnussion close to shut 
Her Ports, when Charts, or when Phylax bent 
Their marches, or thehr projects thither. But 
For Log9s, she oonaented He should stffl 
Remain a Pris'ner at the Passi^ms' wifl. 



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177. 
Whh that, Agm&r cries, this friendly Kiss 
Shall be my Seal to this PacifieaHfm, 
The Possums then, though venturing not to press 
Her tips, salute her ears with Acclamation : 
And she, fond she, rejoyc'd their Noise to hear, 
Which did fai pieces all her freedom tear. 

178. 
By name she kindly wdcom'd them ; but on 
Agtnor dwelt her solemne Complement. 
And sure, said she. what you to day have done 
Proves you to be of that sublime Descent 

From which my Spouse was said alone to spring ; 

For now I see you too are Peace's King, 

179. 

Heav*n was too large and loose a Word, when you 
IVofest to trace its gentle Conquests ; He 
He only was your glorious Copy now, 
Who is the Master of my heart and me : 

He who deserveth to be follow'd by 

Sudi royal Scholars as your Majesty. 

180. 

His Hand 's Power's highest throne ; the Armory 

Of heav'n, where thundering Ammunition lies 

In dreadful store, is His ; yet tender He 

By sweetness loves to gain his victories. 
And so do you, who for his sake, to me 
The noblest Prince and dearest are, but He. 

181. 

Afinor smil'd : and who I am, said He. 

Vlrttu permits me not to let you know : 

More than by this blest Peace, and, what you see. 

That Token of my princely love to you : 
For, somewhere else the World may need, and I 
Must not by loitering here, my help deny. 

182. 
Yet if my Aid you should hereafter want, 
Send and enquire at any Prince's Court 
Those are the Hosts and Inns to which I grant 
The favour of my ahrays-begg'd Resort : 
Where, from my Cbming and Departing they 
Reckon the Mom and Evening of their Joy. 

183. 

This said, and tendring, in two Cabinets 

His present, from her lips he took his leave ; 

Through which he breath'd and kiss'd in new Deceits. 

Which her unwary heart did not perceive ; 
Sly Sfiriis of Self-love, and foolish Pride, 
And many mystic swelling things beside. 

184. 
With earnest Courtesy she woo'd his stay ; 
But now his deep Design was oompass'd, He 



With all his proud Retinue hastes away. 
And leaves her more a Pris'ner. than when she 
Was in her castle barrM up by fear 
Of them, who now aU play the TyranU there. 

185. 

Each Passion takes her swindge, and makes appeal 

To TkeUma when any Doubts arise ; 

Boldly provoking to the Scroll and Seal, 

Which did this publick Freedom authorise. 
Thus Noise and Tumult all the Palace fills. 
Which now with lawful lawless Revels swells. 

186. 
So when fond Pkahis, doting on his Son 
Resign'd his Reins into his chikiish hand ; 
Quite cross the road th' impatient Coursers ran, 
And neither kept thehr way, nor his Conunand, 
But in unbridled madness with their wheels 
Drew on the World's confusion at their heels. 

187. 

The Senses too, first Sticklers in the Treason, 
Reaped of its licentious fruit their share ; 
Perceiving quickly, that imprison'd Reason 
Must his stem Discipline malgre forbear : 
And proudly smiling, what tame fools were we. 
They cry'd, who did no sooner mutiny ! 

188. 
What strange and hideous monsters Kingdoms grow. 
Where Law and Sovereignty, the life and health 
Of every heav'n-descended State must bow 
To vile plebeians' wills 1 What Conmionwealth 
Can justify its Name, where Subjects may 
Command, and Princes dare not but obey I 

189. 

Where Freedom's Name being thus deflowrM, must 
Tum Licences bold bawd, and make it free 
Only to be outrageous and injust I 
Where DesoUUions Dame, foul Ataxy, 

As beauteous Mother of establish'd Bliss 

And public Happiness, admired is. 

190. 
No Hydra* s shape so shapeless is as this 
Which throws the world back to its breeding Heap ; 
The hideous Chaos of Preposterousness 
That tumbles all Things in one monstrous Deep. 
And, envying the fairly-form'd Creation 
Disjohits and scatters it quite out of fiashion. 

191. 
Yet retchless Psyche is content to see 
This horrid Solsecism in her own breast ; 
And thinks her Sceptre and her self more free 
Then when Obedience did her Subjects cast 
Low at the feet of all her Mandates, and 
Her Emigre's hehn knew none but her own hand. 



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192. 

The siUy Rose deligfateth thus to tie 

Drast in her fiEurest looks and hetn attire, 

When round about a chtolish company 

Of Thorns against her tenderness conspire : 
That dangerous siege of pikes with smites she greets, 
Ne'r dreaming they design to choke her sweets. 

193. 
Ptyckt's as jolly, as the Passioms wild. 
And loQgs her joys with that rich Feast to feed 
With which Armor's Cabinets were filld : 
Proud Expectation prompts her there to read 
The lines of Fate against her self, for she 
In opening them, broadi'd her own Mysery. 

194- 
(With such unfortunate Curiosity 
The fair-fac'd Box rash Mfimttkms op'd : 
The trembling Lid forewam'd his hand to be 
Better advis'd ; yet still the Fondling hop'd 
For mighty Matters ; but the Prise he found, 
Himself, and all the world in sorrows drown'd.) 

195. 
The first was stufTd with BraceleU, Netwoiks, Tires. 
Rings, Ear-rings, Tablets, Wnnples, Hoods, Vails. 



Lawns, Crisping-pins, Chains, BonneU, golden Wires. 
Vermilion, Pencils, Smiles. Youth, blooming Faces. 

Gloves, »Sandals. Girdles. Busks. Gowns. Mantles. 
Clokes. 

New-fisshions, Powders, Coronets. Hlgh4ooks. 

196. 

Silks. Satins, Purples. Sables, Ermins : Gold 
And Silver, by the Loom and Needle taught. 
To wed and dwell with Silk, which feels no cold. 
The bottom too was sumptuously fraught 

^ith ready Coin, to pave and dress the iloor 

Fit for the feet of that ambitious Store. 

197. 
A stately Mirror's all-enameld Case 
The second was ; No crystal ever yet 
Smil'd with such pureness : Never Ladle's Glass 
Its owner flatter'd with so smooth a cheat. 

Nor could Narcissus* fount with such delight 

Into his fair Destruction Him invite. 

198. 
For He in that, and Self4ove, being drown'd, 
Agenor from hun pluck'd his doting Eyes ; 
And shuffled in her fragments : having found 
Old Jetabers, be stole the Dog's due prize. 
GoliaKs staring Bacins too he got. 
Which he with Pharaoh's all together put, 



«99- 

But not content with these ; from Phadtm, 
FVom Joak, Icarus, Nc huchad s um r, 
From Philip and his world-devouring Sam, 
From Scylla, CaHUmt, Tulfy, Pampty, CHar, 

From Harod, CUopaira, and Spasms, 

Ftom Agrifpitta and DowUHanus, 

TOO, 

And many surly Stoics, their's he puO'd ; 

Whose proudest Humors, having drained out. 

He blended in a laige and polish'd mould ; 

Which up he fiU'd. with what from heaVn he brought 
In Eztiact of those Looks of Ijkt^ 
In which against his God he breathed war. 

201. 

Then to the North, that glassy Kingdom, where 

Establish'd FVost and Ice for ever reign ; 

He sped his course, and meeting Boreas there, 

I^y'd him this liquid mixture to restrain. 
When lo, as Boreas op*d his mouth, and blew 
For his Command, the SUma all solid grew. 

202. 

Thus was the Mirror foigM, and oontain'd 

The vigor of those self -admiring Eyes 

Agtnat^s witchcraft into it had strain'd : 

A dangerous juncture of proud frdlades ; 
Whose fair looks so inamored Him, that He 
Thfioe having kiss'd it, nam'd it Phdiamiy, 

203. 

Inchanted Psycho ravisfa'd was to see 

The Glass her self upon her self reflect 

With trebled Mi^jesty. The Sun when He 

Is by Aurora's roseal fingers deckt. 
Views not his repercuss^ self so fiur 
Upon the Eastern Main, as she did here. 

204. 
New flames were kindled in her sprightful eye. 
New Roses on her smiling lips were strow'd. 
New Loves and Graces dainty Luxury 
Down with her golden streaming Ttesses flow'd. 

New lilies trim'd her hands' and fiogers' feature. 

New Goodliness aggmndis6d her stature. 

205. 
Her cheated Soul qwung through her Eye, and dwelt 
So long upon the Glass, that it grew new : 
Such mighty thoughts till now she never felt 
As all about his Ughsworn fimcy flew ; 

Which breaking from her mouth, at length, she cries. 

How long have I been strange to mine own eyes I 

206. 
Am I that Worm, whom Phylax put in mind 
So oft of Dust and \rilaiess I CouM this fepe. 



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CANTO V. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVRS MYSTERY, 



93 



Theae Eyes, these Looks, these Hands, this Person find 

No better Panllds? I see the case 
Is plain how Afhrodisius came to be 
So hideous: /'/Ir/iur made the like of Me. 

207. 
Fool that I was to dream it conld be true 
Which proud He daily preach'd to my disgrace I 
Who could believe I ne'r tiU now should view 
The wonders of mine own aooomplish'd fiftoe ? 

most ingenuous Glass, which tells me more 
Than Pkylax, or than CMaris did before 1 

208. 
I see what cause there was to guard each Port 
Whose key doth hither any way unlock, 
That such ingrateful envious Guests' resort 
No more may Me, and all my favors mock : 
'Tis just that they should hence exiled be, 
Whose spightful Fraud did banish Me from Me. 

209. 

No marvel now if Hta/tftCs a^partnt Heir 
Disdains all Beauties that he finds above. 
And, doing right to what 's supremely fair. 
By stooping down to me exalts his Love. 

1 little thought I could so much have shown 
Why this my Head should fit an heavenly Crown. 

210. 
O pardon me, bright Eyes, that ignorant I 
With briny tears so oft have sully'd you : 
Had not your Flames by their Divinity 
Seeur6d been, they had been quench'd e'r now. 

And pardon me, sweet Cheeks 1 I will no more 

Bhibber and scald your roses as before. 

211. 

And you, all-Iovely Lips, no more shall kiss 

The Dust, which foolish I took for your Mother ; 

The tribe of oriental Rubies is 

Your precious Kindred : nor must any other 
Your soft and living Nectar hope to sip. 
But my Dear SpouUs correspondent Lip. 

212. 

Nor shall rude usage rob thee of thy due. 

My glorious Body : all hair-clothes farewd. 

My liberal TVesses yield me hair enough ; 

And by this GirdU, Heatfn did plainly tell 
What other Furniture would sute me best. 
When with this siege of Gems it girt my waste. 

213. 

And since thy Casket's Wardrobe challenges 

My proudest choice, I wish thy self wert here, 

Royal Agenar, to admire how these 

Fab Limbs of mine would quit themselves, and wear 
In worthy triumph thy best Jewels, which 
Shall by my purer beams their own enrich. 



214. 
This said ; Love, who stood fawning by her dde. 
Her delicate Quaintness sets on work to dress 
Her higfa-conodted Queen in equal pride. 
A purple Mantle, firing'd with StateUmss, 

Embroidered with AmHtion, lao6d round 

^^th Vanity, she in the Casket found. 

215. 
About her this she plants : then for her neck 
And wrists, tlnee gaudy strings of Gems she chose ; 
A spariding Coronet her head to deck ; 
To trim her feet a pair of silver shoes ; 

A crisping Pin to multiply her hair ; 

Spruce Lawn to make her breast, though doth^, bare. 

216. 
Whilst she with these, and other Rarities 
Builds up her pomp ; the swelling Queen delights 
To see by what ridi steps her Beauties rise : 
For to the Glass, whose multiplying sleights 
Flatter'd her Error to so proud a pitch. 
Her joyous folly still her eyes did reach. 

217. 
And, that Vermilion, you, said she, may spare, 
Whose pretty Looks it pities me to see ; 
Which tfiough they Beantie's pure complexion wear, 
Can add no commendation to Me. 

They may relieve your needy Cheeks : but mine 

Akeady any hdp of Art outshine. 

218. 

Then rising in slow state, as she before 

Had mark'd Agenor moving from his throne ; 

She traversM, but scom'd to see. the floor, 

Or any of the Possums who look'd on. 
Only she tumM her vain-glorious Head 
Back to the Glass her walking sdf to read. 

219. 

Whidi Lesson pleas'd her pride so wdl, that she 

Gat it by heart, and yet must read again ; 

Insatiably coveting to see 

The Pomp in which her Looks and Clothes did reign : 
And, tickled with her sdf, she wish'd that now 
Her SpauH a ^sit would on her bestow. 

220. 

The cunning Passions seemg her inhance 
Her gate and aspect, thought it fit to bow. 
And at the feet of her new Arrogance 
Themsdves and thdr insidious homage throw : 

Which though she lik6d, yet she sleighted too*.. 

And taught Acetptastu with Disdain to go. 

221. 
But judging now her Home too narrow to 
Contain her Greatness, she abroad must ride. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVETS MYSTERY. 



CANTO V. 



That unto hen all Eyes might rw cren o e do 

Who now ooold prove her lelf Htav'u's worthy Bridt; 

And jnitly might display her beams in this 

Low worid. as in the upper he did hi& 

232. 

An open Chariot she calls for ; and 

That with due sUte and speed her wheels might run. 

Bight tall stout Passwms, at her command 

Bow'd down their necks, and put the hameM on ; 
Being prickM with as strong an itch to be 
Abroad, and trot about the worid, as she. 

223. 

When lo Symeidtsis, who all this while 
Her Qmem had in a silent corner watch'd, 
PLCOoata her in an unexpected stile : 
For, strict hold on her shoulder having catch'd. 
What means this haste? here is another Glass, 
Said she, for you to view before jovl pass. 

224. 

Behold these Eyes of mine ; a Mirror where 

Lurks no Deceit, nor Charm, nor flattery : 

Tirue Psyehi you are here, and only here 

In this Reflection of Verity. 
I never yet abosM You : and why 
Must that false Glass be tnisted, and not I ? 

225. 

With hidignation Psyche tum'd her head, 

And left scorn for Sjmeidisis; but she 

Who knew not to be daunted, followM 

Her eye with loyal importunity, 
And made her see, in spight of her Disdain, 
That Camci€tu€ never shews her iuat in vain. 

226. 
The Passi&ms wonder'd at her boldness : but 
She is a Witch, impatient Psyche cries. 
And all inchantment*s powers and tricks are met 
In those broad Mirrors of her monstrous eyes ; 
Which so environ mine, that there's no gap 
Where from their colouring Circles I may scape. 

227. 
Behold how gross a Ly of Ugliness 
They on my face have threapM, to ont£sce 
The truth of all those beauteous lines which dress 
My royal Looks with prince4>ecoming grace. 
Surely myself I would upon myself 
Revenge, were I indeed so foul an El£ 

228. 
Was eye e'r frighted with so dire an heap 
Of angry blisters as those Starers make 
O'r all my skin ! I challenge any Deep 
On whose wide face the Winds most freedom take, 

To shew so many billows, as in me : 

O no ! as in this lying shape, you see. 



229L 

Improvident Witch, why didst thou not as wdl 

Enchant my Touch, as thou hast charm'd mine eyes ? 

Why didst thou leave these fingers power to feel 

The hoifid Author of these Ibtgeries? 
Their tumors are not yet so sore, but still 
Thy witchery they can restrain, and wUL 

23a 

Upon her throat forthwith her left hand flew. 

With furious vengeance having azm*d her right ; 

With which upon the Maiden's eyes she threw 

The vehemence of her inflame spigfaL 
Hoping to break her Ghuses, that their cnck 
Might let those blisters out they nem'd to make. 

231. 

But stout Sytuidisis composM was 

Of Metal as secure and brave as she : 

Her eyes, though dothM in the looks of Glass, 

Yet borrow'd notUng but its Purity : 
Had they been brittle too, they had been broke. 
But now they bore, and smildd at the stroak. 

232. 

This fetch'd a secret sigh from Psyche, who 

CaU'd for a vail as thick and black as night ; 

And this at least, said she, the deed shall do. 

And bury those bold Monsters from my sight 
Then on the Virgin's £ftce she cast it, and 
Fast ty'd it on with an hard-hearted hand. 

233. 
O miserable Privilege, that Man 
Should able be to muffle up that light 
Which shews him to himself, and only can 
Through rocks and shelves point out his Course aright I 
Unhappy strength 1 what Weakness is so weak. 
As those mad Powers which their own ruin seek I 

234- 

But thus the frantic crazy-brainM Wight 

Whom deep Distempers make his own Disease, 

Preposterously tries his wretched might 

Upon his Physic ; and although he sees 
The Potion mixM for his health, alas 
Throws that, and this both in his Doctor's iue. 

335. 
Proud of this self-confounding Conquest, to 
Her chariot Psyche hasu ; whose Coursers from 
Her scornful eyes their own inflam'd, and through 
The air with haughty fervor flung their foam. 
With bended necks and sparkling looks they ran. 
Disdaining all the ground they trode upon. 

236. 
Thus swimming over hills, and dales, and plains, 
She spy'd at length a simple £rmiie*s Cell ; 



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CANTO V. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY, 



95 



And phiddng in her fierce Teem's looser reins. 
To see what Worm in that poor hole did dwell ; 
An hoary homespun Nfan she there descry'd 
Deeply alx>ut his Roou and Herbs imploy'd. 

237. 
To whom she cries. Ah fondly-wretched Thing, 
Is this a time for thee to cultivate? 
What makes thy Winter in the work of Spring. 
Who art already bowing to thy fiate ? 

EVn delve no more for Roots ; that labor save ; 

And for thy other foot go dig thy grave. 

238. 
The sober RrmiU having wisely view'd 
Her scornful Pity, thus reply^d : I 
For ]rour Conmiiscration would have su'd, 
Had I these Pains accounted misery. 

But I can spare you all your pomp and ease ; 

Whom poverty and labor better please. 

239. 
A Coadi (my moving House, my Home abroad) 
Once waited on my Idleness ; but now 
I am content with Nature's comelier mode : 
That stately Shift (which vainly tickles you) 
Of borrowing legs of Beasts, to me is grown 
Needless, who have fax nobler of mine own. 

240. 
These Vanities, and all the rest, which are 
Superfluous Wealth's care4)reeding Train, I threw 
Away with it ; and that in time, for fear 
Twonld so have served me ; for weU I knew 

That Riches were but glorious vexadons ; 

Sin's catching fuel, Plunder's Invitations. 

241. 
Then took I sanctuary in that CeQ, 
Which has more room to spare for Ntav'u and God, 
Than my vast Pkdace ; which was throngM full 
With secular burly Things. In this abode 
I find my HeaVn, where undisturbed I 
Far from the Worid's loud storms at anchor He. 

242. 
This spot of ground, the Sooff of your high eyes. 
By pleasant Pains I make restore to me 
What heedless Sloth had lost,— sweet Paradiu, 
No Bait smiles here on a forbidden Tree ; 
Nor in these Herbs doth any Serpent Sneak, 
Them to invenom, or my Safety check. 

243- 
My serious Labor, and my rigid fare, 
F^gfat hence those tender Sons of Luxury 
DisUmptrs and Diseases; guests which are 
Fed at the board of Superfluity, 
In health and vigor I can night and day 
Trade with my Maker, and both watch and pray. 



244. 
He, though no wanton Bathes have softened 
My careless skin (which tann'd and rou£^ you see,) 
Though all my weeds be of a rural thread 
Spun by neglect, and by Simplicity ; 
Elsteems not me nor my Condition poor. 
Who build my Hopes upon His 00^ store. 

24S- 
His royal store, which (since this World below 
Could not oontain't.) fills Heav'n's vast lYeasury : 
And tiU Dust's Sons by Humbleness can grow 
As high as that, in vain they strive to be 
True Riches' heirs. But there's a way by which 
We Dwarfs, to that sublimity may reach. 

246. 
A strange cross Way, which by Descensian^s wings 
Learns us to soar : For Grace such strength as this 
Into the field no less than Nature brings, 
With opposite Cures encountring Maladies. 

Pride threw us down when we were perch'd too high; 

Our ladder to get up 's Humility. 



247. 

Humility, that Art ennobled by 

His own profession whom the Heav'ns adore. 

Himself he made the Lowest of Mast High, 

And of the Richest, most despis'dly Poor : 
By his own Pattern teaching us that we 
Shall surest by Rebound exalted be. 

248. 

With Coach and Horses never any yet 

But great Elias unto heav'n was bom ; 

He, who on foot march'd through the lowest pit 

Of Poverty, of Peril, and of Scorn ; 
And they who to this honor would aspire 
Must be such Heroes as can ride in fire. 



249. 
Psyche with great contention deign'd to hear 
Him hitherto ; but could endure no more. 
What pity 'tis, said she, that though thy bear 
Thus long hath waited for thee at thy door, 
Th'art grown no wiser yet I this sign doth shew 
Thy Dotage is past help : poor Wretch, adieu. 

25a 

Then with relaxM rein admonishing 

Her wnoking steeds ; they snatch'd her coach away. 

M^th sparkling foaming fervor, copying 

Her hasty Indignation ; till they 
Drew near a goodly City : where their pace 
They chang'd, and stalkM in with princely grace. 



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251. 

The gjKdng Feople itopp*d, as on she put. 

And fitt'd the street with Wonder ; etery Eje 

Fnll in her way its foolish homage cast ; 

And by admiring, higher rais'd her high 
And tumid Looks ; who had the more to soom. 
The more Spectators dad her way adorn. 

252. 
For whilst some prais'd the COadi, and some the steeds. 
And aU her Person who their worth faihanc'd ; 
With careless kwks Contempt about she spreads : 
For though she lov'd whate'r her pomp ad?anc'd. 
Yet lov'd she too in public to despise 
What in her private thoughts was her best prise. 



253. 
So when a bnriy Tempest roDs his pride 
About the wortd, though mighty Cedars Ixyw, 
Though Seas give way to his fiff vaster Tide, 
Though Mountains lay their proudest heads full low 

Before his feet ; be counts that homage vain. 

And rusheth on in blustring disdain. 

254. 

On many Pidaoes her eye she cast, 

Which yet ooold not vouchafe to view them long : 

At last abhorring all she saw, she prest 

With faisolent fierceness through the staring Throng. 
Oying : These Cottages can yidd no room 
For Psj^cki't entertainment ; I must home. 



NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Stanza 3. L i, 'Jomd^s* s foolish. St 4, 1. 6, 'Sal- 
vage ' s savage, and so st. 6a, 1. 6l St. 6, L 6^ ' «w * ac 
woa St 7, L 9, ' battalia ' = battalions, and so st 103, 
L 6. St IX, L I, ' Garboils ' as commotions. St. 14, 1. 
3, ' broackds ' s openeth, uttereth. St x6, 1. 5, ' kmmih 
iitg'—ih» old myth that the young vipers 'gnawed' 
their way to birth and thereby destroyed their mother. 
St 93, L 3, 'Msi^'sweU-trimmed? ii,, L 6, *deafs* » 
deafens. St 97, L 3, ' BoStU: Cf. Psalm Ivi. 8. ei/H- 
qumter: recently in Cyprus I obtained from the British 
Consul a number of very ancient tear-bottles that had 
just been discovered in ancient tombs there. St 39, L 
9, *hamktrimg* — see Glossarial Index, f.v., as before. 
St 33, 1. 3. * Imsuliatioms* » triumphs, boastings. St. 
34, L X, 'yW'tf '—see Glossarial Index, j.v., on earlier 
and contemporary use of ' fry * and ' fries.' St 37. L 4, 
' Card* as chart, rather than compass-card? St. 39, L 
I, * Ltagtur* s beleaguer? or ambassador? St 4a, L 
3. ' T til-truth* —"^ TeU-Troth ' is an eariy personification. 
St 48, L I. 'Uarimg* s leering. St 50, L a, *amnmiar 
jimgirr* ^ tiDfi finger. St 66. 1. 6, '^Iau^' a deaden. 
St 74. L 5, * parity* ss argue or make terms? St 75, 
1. 3, ' Complices* as accomplices i ib„ * houUing* s 
sifting. St 95, L 5, ' eamtstmu '--see Glossarial Index, 
i.v. St xxS, i 3, • CiMqtu-ports' =: five gates. i,i, the 
five senses, as Professor George Wilson names his 
charming little book ' The Five Gateways of Knowledge.' 



St X9I, L 9, ' brisk '— «ee Glossarial Index, s,v. , for other 
examples. St 195, L 3, * Mandsowu,* ibid, St X35, L 
X, * youngling* as little one, diminutive of 'youth.' St 
X41, 1. X, * brook * ss bear or endure : ti., ' rougk-omsi*^ 
rudimentaiy, roughly-formed. St 146^ L z, ' Humucu- 
batioms * = lying on the ground. St x6o. 1. 4, * modtnt- 
trix 'ssfeminine of ' moderator.' St z6a, L 5, ' dUnk'd ' 
s chapped or opened in ' chinks.' St 169, L 6, 'truce' 
s follow— see Glossarial Index, s.v,, for other examples. 
St X78, L 9, ' Compliment * a: compliment St 185, L 
X, 'swindge* » swing, sweep. St 187, L 4, 'asa^pnr's 
maugre, spite of. St 193, 1. 6, * broach* d* » opened. 
St X94, I. 4, ' Fondling ' » foolish thing — diminutive 
of 'Foot' St. 19s, L 5. 'Busks* » sUys— pan for a 
whole of a private piece of feminine dress. St 198, L 
4, *ke stoU the Dogs due priae:* See 9 Kings, c. ix. 
xo, 30-37: ii„ t 5, * Bacins* ^hoMon, t.c bawm-like 
(in sise) eyes? cf. U. 9-3. St. 903, L 5, ' repercussod*— 
see Gk>s8arial Index, s,v., for parallels. St 908, 1. x, 
*Port * « gate. St axa, 1. 6, * siq^e* ai circle or sur- 
rounding ? St. 996, IL 4-6. On this truly magnificent 
portraiture of SyneidesiB' lace, especially her aU-pen»> 
trative eyes, see our Memorial-Introductioo. St. 941, 
L 4, 'burly' « boisterous : cf. st 953, L i. St 946, 1, 
X, ' Discension*s * b humiUty, or descending. St. 949, L 
X, ' contention ' a struggling or striving. — G. 



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CANTO VI. 
The Humiliation, 



The Argument. 
Hmrkioit/nfy FHends iy Soui-SMkhtiMg^ art 
Rteov€r V9y€tk%/rom ktr skam^l Glory : 
And snrt to stal t^on ker scftmed kgart 
RtHgkms Meekness, Phylax t€lh tkt story 

Hew Htoffn and Earth eawu Heat/n and Earth to be; 

And what viUStu^j/urr^d hor Nativity. 

I. 

BUT what is /fame to most unhappy Her, 
Whose only Castle is surrendered to 
A Fack of RAtls^ who resolvM are 
To use the licence of their Conquest so. 
That She shall in her own Dominion 
Retain no power but to be Undone ? 

She might have safelier call'd all Tempests in. 
And to the loudest Winds flung ope her Gate ; 
Or gir'n her key to Bears and Tigers, than 
To those more dangerous Beasts, whose iair-tongu'd 
hate 

Works by this strange Prerogative, that they 

By Homey Poison, by Embraces slay. 

3. 

Give me a Foe (if needs I one must have) 
Who owns his Malice, and does fairly draw 
In open field, not blushing to be brave 
In his bold shame : One who's content to show 

The worst he means, and dares Professor be 

Of IVichednest^s Ingenmity. 

4. 
Flat Enemies axe honest courteous Things, 
Because they tell us what we have to fear : 
But donbie-hearted Friends, whose Blandishiqgs 
Tkskle our ears, and sting our bosoms, are 
Those dangerous Sirens whose smug maiden fiice 
Is ugly mortal Treason's bumish'd Glass. 



These are the Fits, whose mouths with 
Sweetly invite oar fiset into a fen ; 



flowera spread 



46 



The golden C«/x, whose lips are sugarM 
To their dissembled Poison ours to call : 
The crafty Hoohs, which in a dainty Bait 
To catch the liquorish Palate lie in wait. 



The flattering Fi^, whose sweetly-thrilUng Tune 
Inchants the silly Birds into the Net : 
The feiriy-treacherous Beds of fragrant Jhtne 
With smiling Roses and with Lilies set : 
Where, th' unsuspecting Gardner to surprise 
By fetal sleight, perdue the Serpent lies. 



The dangerous Dalilahs, whose weeping eye. 
Whose sighs, whose kisses, whose embraces be 
The truer Withs, and Ropes, and Web. whereby 
They bind the stoutest Samsons on their knee ; 
Where, while they dream of Rest, they poUM are 
At once both of their Liberty and Hair. 

8. 

The poHticly-mild Hyetnas, who 
Make Savageness in human accents speak. 
Whilst with such sweet hypocrisy they woo 
The heedless Swain compassion to take ; 
That to his Foe his door he openeth. 
And tai fond pity letteth in his death. 



The fehvtongu'd Jndases, whose lips can drop 

The honey of a friendly Salutation, 

And with soft kisses seal the bargaiq up ; 

Though hi their hearts a spightful conjuration 
Rankles, and swells, and labors how it may 
In looks and words of Love their God betray. 

la 

And surely Fsyehe by this Treason had 

Been cheated of her Life and Self, if He 

Who in his Jndas, tiyal of it made ; 

Had lent no Pity to her Misery : 
Had JeseCs tender Goodness not outrode 
Her whose proud Coadi now loU'd her finm her God. 

N 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO VI. 



II. 

Hsd He not foand a way to make her tee 
Tlie btindneiB of her own bewitdiM eyes ; 
To weigh how real was her Vanity ; 
To read the tnith of all Agtnor's Lys ; 

To learn in timep that War and DeaolatloB 

Lay breeding on her false Paci/Uaiiom, 

12. 
Ckmris and PfyUut He a while withdrew, 
That being left to her sole self she might 
Of her own weakness take convincing view, 
When bold Temptations challeng'd her to fight 
Bat now he sends them back to help her down 
FVom that high Rnhi where he saw her thrown. 

13- 
Make haste, «id He, my Love and her Distress 
Call for your speed : To you full power I give. 
To ease her of her wretched Mightiness 
Before it split her heart ; to undecenre 

Her blinded Soul and shrink UtiU it ba 

Little enough to fit my Hear'aand Me. 

14. 

(And wdl, O well.it was, Vt»Xgrafio9uJi4 

Gave them such fiill Commissioiii dwcbad they 

In ndn unsheath'd their best Activity 

Her ugly-tumid bulk to cut away. 
Those who FHdt*s stubborn Castle down would bring, 
Must be impowr'd by Z.0wA*jujj/j ^uy.) . . 

'5- 

They having thrice his foot-4tool kissW. flew 

On flaming Zeal's stqut wipgs thrpogh eve^ sphear : 
No Lightning's flash e'r made more baste to view 
The East and West at onoe, than this swift Pair, 
To reach their Errands but ; or with more light 
Did all Specutors'.atartled eyes aifriglit. . . 

16. 
For when the Paxsmiw saw them darting near.. , 
Immediate Terror, on .their ^uU did seise \, 
Down fell their changed looks and necks ; tho' Pear 
Was left at home, she present seem'd in these. 
The sudden stroke.oo P^IU too did beaW ■ 
And damp'd her CbarioU, and her stooiack's beat 

17. 
But though t)]e fipt asfunlt of Lightning b« > 
Pointed with Dread and 4ure. ;. tl^e «e|t#u« wonti r 
To march in more abated Majesty, 
And their bright Terror by degrees to blunt 
Custom, though young and breeding, yet oan make. 
The dint and edge of any strangeness slako» ' - 

18. 
Her daring Steeds adrantnr'd to reww: . *' -ij» 
Some sense and spirits of tboir MUag IWc . x/ ^ 



As soon 's that splendor's first Attempt was over : 

Bat she her self by Confidence's tide 
Stoutly presum'd to trust, that she might weQ 
The torrent of those heav'nly Beams icpeL 

This made her to her radiant Primds dispense 
Her firowns and lowring-loathing looks» and by 
That silent language of Impatience 
Her chang6d mind and sullen thoughts descry : 

But when she mark'd them still resolv'd. she cries. 

I thonght yoo woukl have understood mine eyes. 

2a 
If I must them interpret ; Know, you are 
As much mistaken now in Psyche^ as 
She was in you ; I must, and therefore dare, 
Tell you your own : your treacberous Counsd has 
Too kmg bewitch'd my tender creduloos heart : 
Henceforth you may for evemore depart 

. 2L 

The saucy Comrsa^4 cars alLprick'd up Ugh, • • • 

Caught that proud Answer as Irom Her it flew ; 

Which, neighing in tumultuous jollity 

l^th broad defiance histily they threw 
Fun in the faoes of the htaifmly Pair: 
And then they kick'd and flung and snulTd the air. 

22. 

But PkyUuc pitching in her ooach's way 
Lift up his hand and wing and forc'd her bade ; 
Crying much louder than her steeds could neigh : 
Yet e*r you go. vondisafe to hear me qieak ; 
What tho* I be your Foe ? you need not fear 
Now you have leamM that, my words to hear. 

Whate*r I say.. I can no longsr cheat you 
Whose Jealousy against me keeps a guard : 
But if vrith wholesom Counsd now I greet you. 
My Salutation must not be debarred 
Of dvil enteMainment : Foes may nieet{ -' 
Nor always is 't fa& vain that meithey tseat - 

24. 
This netled TMmt^ vhoPostiIlion.waa. . . . 
And had inflam'd the C(M(rsGrxAlLthft.aEa)r: - 
For shooting soom from her bent brows. Alas 
She cry'd, thinks Pl^ktx I '1 his rub ob^. 
Who ride whetee'r llist -and umu uM*t • 
V^th Mount, or Worid. whidi stops mjiiaraea' feet? 

Which said, she cbfick'd b<r fioryjCtewn (and 
This Ang9r was. the .||iQSt.QM^«gigua stoad 4 .^ ." 
She with curveU strait answered her hand. 
And aim'd to snatch her way o'r PhyUue head. 
Three times she lsap'< as aAcn tunftUngiMMfcr - 
Till with her bones she heard thoChnrfcit cmok 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



99 



26. 
For P^lax* thether having reacb'd a Ray 
Of mystic pow'r, attact the AzeUtree ; - 
Whidi with a splitting shriek gave wofol way, 
And by the voice of its fragility 
Admonish'd all the Coach, that Rmim now 
Meat there to ride, and Psychs oat would throw. 

27. 
And true the warning was : the Wheels, the Team, 
The Bans, the Pillars, Seat, Sides. Back and Head 
Shattered, and made ComfuHcds dismal game ; 
Strait felt how sure the Axel prefocM 
To their strange Tkagedy, who now no more 
Could own their several Names as beret^ore. 

28. 

'Twas an hot one rude Heap : upon whose back 

Lay PsydU bniisdd with the boistrons fall ; 

But wounded more to see who made that Crack, 

And rsis'd that Pile as for her FuneraL 
She scom'd to take Him for an equal Foe, 
But swd'd and pufTd, and knew not what to do. 

29. 

He in her suUen eye observing well 
Thosie troubled motions of her smoking heart, 
Whkh she could neither utter nor 'conceal ; 
Pitied the sadness of her wilful smart : 
And, for compliance,. her own course he took, 
Speakiog not I7 his mouth, but by his Look. 

This is the Dialect of strongest Love, 

Which, when the fruitless Tongue hath said her Say, 

M^th soul-commanding poVr doth plead, and prove ; 

That purest Rhtloric reigns in eyes ; that they 
Who to the bottom of the heart would speak. 
In Looking Lines 1009^ their Orations make. 

?'• 
His serious Aspect upon Her was bent 
Compos'd of gentle wrath and mfld disdain. 
Eipteasive were the Glances which he sent. 
And every Word that darted forth was plain. 
Some Rays grew hot, and stouUy chode, but others 
With melting Pit/ molii^'d their brothers. 



O what a k»g lofig stojQr can he<ove^ 
\n this short ocular ]>iscot)rss I hoiy.fa^^ 
Dkl he her bosom and his own discover. 
And what of old. and whasaf late had past ; 

And what was Aamwix^ if>ah#«iai rash'd on 

With obstinate < 



33- 



But ireful She ddgn'd not to 1 

This Laagaage» iinoe tha Speaker she d ei pii 'd : 



She proudly look'd, and coily wav'd her hand, 
And told him by those s^:ns she was advis'd 
So wdl of what she did, that He might go 
And somewhere else his sconi6d pain bestow. 

So when the laithCol Tntor^s tender eye 
Reads his stem Lecture of Admonishment : - 
His stubborn Pupil ventures to defy 
With disrespectful Looks the sweet faitent 
Of those smart Memorandums, and by mute 
Disdain kicks back what Words could not confute. 

35. 
Mean whUe as. TheUina^ tumbled from her Stud^ 
Lay biting both the ground and her own lip ; 
Charts her sweetest Pow'rs had mustered 
F^nom her worse precipice to help her up : 
And see, said she, when it was grown ao tall 
How suddenly your Pride has caught a fall 

3& 

Yet this is not the bottom, but a step 
To that sad Ruin whether you did ride, 
O had you known how black and vast a Deep 
Gapes in your joumy's end, aO Deaths beside 
You would have woo'd and hugged, rather than 
Have posted thus to plunge into that one. 

37. 

Here with her potent Wand she stroke the Earth : 

Which knock when Tellus beard, she op'd, her door ; 

When lo a Night of smoke came stinking forth. 

And then a dusky day of fire : the Roar 
Of that great Crack made surly TheUma start. 
And terribly reach'd Psyche's vezM heart. 

3«. 
Yet though Dread shook thehr Souls, they deemM it 
Shame to confess thehr fear and run away : 
Tbefar adamantine Stomachs would not let 
Their lives be longer predous : still they stay, 

Not oiit of cunbui Desire to see, 

But to oiitface the hideous Prodigy. 

39- 
The monstrous Jaws of that wide-gapfaig Ph 
With baneftd'soot'were Un6d tUck : from which 
Incensed Sulphure flashing rage did spit ; 
And Clouds of Grones ana/d in horrid pitch 
Breath'd mS toiAa&xm who below did dwell : 
These proofir authentic yrttt to speak it Heli. 

40. 

Plimg'd hi the gloomy Cancm's centn were 

A wofiiU Rout dudBjd 19 in iiwaiki death ; 

Abiram, Corah, Daihan, fri6d there, 

With Peleth's venturous .S^, whose tndterous Wrath 
Kindled that okl Combustion, which now 
Concluded is in their own flames bdow. 



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CANTO VI. 



41. 
Tbdr bowling Whres. and shriddng Children lay 
Broiling about them ; and desir'd in vain 
One drop of water, after dying, they 
Had burnt so long in their still-living pain. 

Thick ilow'd their tears, but mockM them the more. 

And only icalt their cheeks which flam'd before. 

As Th4liima*s thoughts chew'd these Soul-pierdng tights. 

Behold this last Preferment,— darir cry'd,— 

To which AimHHom desperate fools invites : 

£ay. is 't not pity that thou didst not ride 
Thy Journey out ; And am not I thy foe 
Who down this fiur Hill would not let thee go? 

43. 

Behold how glorious a Realm of Bliss 

It is. to which thou bend'st thy fierce carrier : 

A Realm, wherein all bitterest Excess 

Gruf, Anguish, HawUngs, Tortuns reigning are : 

Where every Rjulation^ every Pain 

Alas, is too too truly Sovtrain. 



Seest thou that arrogant Brood of PtbtUt who 

Too lofty grown to stoop to JUav'nfy Law; 

Basely abus'd their Pride, and blush'd not to 

Their vile and tarikfy Passions to bow. 
Mosis and Aarvn, whom they kick'd at there, 
Are but your Pkylax, and your Ckaris here. 

45- 
Mosa and Aaron there usurp'd too much. 
And bare their tjrrannising heads too high : 
And was not our Indictment only such 
When Love impeach'd us ? Though we were not by 
Yet He was present then, whose Vengeance now 
Feeds on your proud Agenor's heart below. 

Observe that Feind who holds fell Corah* s chain, 
Himself bound in a greater : know'st thou why 
He gathers up his Tail's ashamed train. 
And steals it round about his scaly thigh ? 
Ask but his Looks, and they will tell thee plain 
What Spot it is whose guilt doth them ingrain. 

47. 
This high-swoU'n Mountain of Deformity, 
Once vy'd with BeantUs self by borrow'd grace : 
Hut now uncasM in his cursM sty, 
His shape is correspondent to his place : 

Here, here see what without a Ly is his ; 

This Monster your admir'd Agtnor is. 

48. 
Hearing this word the tumid Spirit ^t 
His overcharged mouth, and tumbled out 



A stream of brimstone, beldiing afker it 
More horrid Cries ; which beUowing about 

His hallow Home, and fioding it too narrow. 

Into the Air let loose his thundering sorrow. 

49. 

Earth's bones all shak'd as through her sides it broke ; 

And startled PsydU felt her fears beat high. 

But Theiema disdain'd the Terrors' stroke. 

Confuting it with her all-daring eye : 
For well she knew her strength was Proof, and still 
Resolv'd whate'r it cost to have her WOl. 

Thus when a wilful Hdr to age is come. 

And in his own hand feels the golden rain 

Of his long-wish'd Revenues ; if by some 

Well-practis'd spend-thrift he be tang^t to drain 
His over-flowing Bags ; in vain his friends 
Shew him what Ebb of want that Tide attends. 

51- 

But trusty Charts still remembring what 
Her Mastoids love commanded, ply'd her part 
And since Fear's daru were thus repulsM, shot 
The shafts of Love into the Virgin's heart ; 
Which in a diamond case from heav'n she brought, 
With many other precious Powers fraught. 

Strong were the Bbws, and op'd themsdves the way 
Down to the bottom of their Mark, but yet 
Both sweet and silent. Thus the noble Ray 
Discharged from Titan* s eye doth never hit 
The solid Crystal, but with dainty force 
Quite through and through it takes its harmless course. 

53. 

On TheUwuCs Soul the gallant Arrows wrought 
WvCtk blessM wounds of heav'n-begotten joy : 
Vet she with such perverse resistance fought. 
That had kind Charis, known how to be coy. 

Her scom'd pains she had spar'd, and left the Maid 

By her own stubborn Victory betray'd. 

54- 
But she as obstinate was in Patience, 
And many a dear time shot and shot again : 
Until th' importunate strokes awak'd a sense 
Of both delightful and convincing pain ; 
V^th which piere'd through, now I must, t see, 
Cry'd TkeUa^a, by this Sweetness oonquer'd be. 

55. 

I know I need not yield, except I will ; 
But this Soul^plying violence which now 
Severely sweet through all my wounds doth thrill. 
Inforoeth me to force myself to bow : 

With that she kxited low, and on her knee 

Beged pardon for her pertinacity. 



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CANTO VI. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



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56. 

noble Virtue of Immortal Gra€4 1 
How onconbrord is its mild mighty Art, 
Whidi can a Bosom of itself uncase 

And teadi the Heart how to subdue the Heart ; 
Which gains unbloody Bays and triumphs thus 
In delicately conquering Us by Us ! 

57. 
So when into the Swain's unwary foot 
The venemous earnest of a Swelling Death 
Is fix>m the treacherous Taraniula shot : 
Music's sweet Accents wisely temper'd, breath 
A mystic Antidote, which by delight 
Deceives the Poison, charming out iu spight 

58. 

Here Psyckt, seeing TktUwM relent. 

Knew her own stomach's power in vain would swell : 

Ntetssiiy convinc'd her to recant 

And find how lost a thing she was : Her fell 
And useless Arrogamc$ away she threw. 
And after it, three sighs sad farewell blew. 

59. 
That thus ejected ; shamg add Modesty 
Of their ingenious Home took fresh possession, 
And in her purple cheek and gloomy eye 
Displaid a scene of penitent Confession : 
llien, as her pride above her self had toss'd her, 
No less beneath these on the ground did cast her. 

6a 
Twas easier now for her to weep than speak : 
Yet striking stifly on her guilty breast 
A passage to her stifeling grief she broke. 
And wrought out this sad cry : O turn at least 

From shameful PsyeJU, turn your spotless eye ; 

Leave me alone to perish where I lie. 

61. 

Leave me alone, or kick me down into 

That mouth of Torment gaping for me there ; 

That I may to my lov'd Agenor go 

Whose lies against your truths block'd up mine ear. 
Sure Orak and his damned Company 
Take not up all the room ; there 's some for me. 

62. 
There must be some ; tAatpuHa is not just : 
For what have they deserved more than 1 1 

1 would not thither go ; and yet I must, 
WfTw^ft till now I would. I would not die. 

And yet I dare not live ; sndi deadly pain 
In this my life of shameful Quilt doth reign. 

63. 

Twas more then death to me to view the lace 
Of my too-late-beUev'd Symeuksis^ 



When she presented in her trusty glass 
The fifiuthfiil Copy of my Hideousness. 

What in your Lustre's dint then shall I do ! 

No vail has night enough to smother you. 



Ay me ! that most calcining Purity 
Of your celestial Looks I cannot bear : 
Pride has so tainted my unhappy eye. 
That nothing more than purest sights I fear ; 

For they my Torments are^ and bum me so 

That to a cooler Hell I fain would go. 

65. 

This wofnl out-cry grated Chart/ heart 
Wont not to break but heal the brusM reed : 
She knew what Lenitives would tame that smart. 
Yet gave no more than for the present need : 
Leaving the perfect cure a while ; for she 
Peroeiv'd how wholsome longer Grief would be. 

66. 

Mean time the rampant Passions were stray'd 

And in wild madness rovM all about : 

But TJukima, before by them betray 'd, 

Reveng'd that treachery, and by a stout 
Command unto their duties wam'd them back : 
The whole field at the awful Voice did quake. 

67. 

They started all, and strait of one another 
Ask'd mutual counsel with a doubting eye : 
But after that first Call out brake it's Brother, 
And thundered with Imperious Majesty. 
Forthwith they look'd, and spy'd then* Mistress's hand 
High lifted up, which spake a third Command. 

68. 
They knew these Summons' did in earnest call, 
And alvrays had disdain'd to be deny'd : 
This forc'd their stiff unwilling crests to &U, 
And into slavish quaking tum'd their Pride ; 
When angry ThtUma snatching up the reins, 
Severely of their harness, made their chains. 

69. 

So when the Master shakes his dreadful rod 

High in the riew of his licentious Boies, 

Who rambling were and truanting abroad ; 

Their loth adieu they bid to all their toies. 
And trembling into School expect when they 
The price of their Eartravaganoe shoukl pay. 

7a 

This done, she stoutly lash'd her shivering Teem 

Close to the lip of that dread mouth of Hell ; 

Where their late Gttural she shew'd to them ; 

Tearing his Feindship he could not conceal : 
Which Sight them and their treacherous Itchingparted, 
And through their Souls immortal Terror darted. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVJ^S MYSTERY. 



CANTO VI. 



71. 

Which Act perfonn'd ; the Scene they all remove 
To Psyches house ; who now profoundly drown'd 
In her diaoonsohite self, nb kmgcr strove 
Against her Friends. No puttter 'tis what ground 
Receives this wretched corps, said she, since I 
Have paas'd the worst of iSeath'seztnanity. 

72- ' 
As thus She through the solitary field 
With doleful pace retunM homeward. She 
The latdy^soomM Ermitage beheld 
With reverent blushing : but when pious He, 
Who leign'd King of himself and it, eqiy'd 
This blessM Change, he sate him down and cry'd. 

73. 
He cry'd for Joy, and answer'd Psychis tears 
Whidi multiply'd with every step she took ; 
With nobte Charts he had many years 
Been well acquaintfd ; and in 's heavenly Look, 
He read that Pkylax was to him of Un, 
Who his own GmardtoM froto his birth had been. 

74. 
What 7%iy had done, his wisdom well could guess 
When he the stubborn Queen thtts melted saw; 
Her frowns, her tannts, her coach, her stateliness 
Were vanish'd all, and she thrown down so low ; 
That by Ajpttuft^s and Hiovttis help she seens 
In one day to have reachM both Exireams. 

75. 
Full many a blessing did the good Man pour 
On Ckaris and oi^/^yZtur as they went : 
But panted out to his dear Master more 
Who them to that Exploit of Mercy sent. 
He threw good Wshes«fler Psjfekg too. 
Tracing her steps as fiur 'a hiaeyaeoukl go. - 

76/ 

And when the Air's vast Sea had drowa'd his eye. 
He launch'd liesh Prayers for her happy weal : 
Profoundly importuning ffeav'm to tie 
The Booty fast it thus had snatcfa'd from Hell : 
To tie her fiast to holy Meekness, that 
No swelling Piidemight burst the bles86d knot. 

Heroic Ckarify how soon dost thou 
Subdue all wrongs, Contempt can shoot at thee : 
And freety bless all Pfttrons whidi bestow 
Snocesse's boon on thy proud Enemy I 
Right noble is thy Valor, which alone 
Can make thy FodTgobd fortune be thine own. 

78. 
But they now to their Journey's period oome. 
Psj^kim^ stiff sighs open blew the gate ; 



And sadly viewiQg her abusM Home, 
Thought every wall did chide for what of late 
She trespass'dihere ; a&d that at every groan 
The Echo cry'd. She ha4 herself undone. 

79- 

As k)th she to her Chamber was to go 

As Thief into the cdl, where be h^ hid 

His wicked goods : Yet they would have it so 

Who from sdf^eft had her ddiverM. 
But two deep Groans, as up the stairs they went 
Summon'd their eyes toaeardi whence they were scnu 

80. 
A she Th4)door they lurkmg there discovered 
Keeping its counsel with bar, lodk. and seal : 
Where wliilst their vrise consideration hover'd. 
Two other Groans did to their aid appeal : 
When TktUma convinc'd by shame and fear. 
Broke ope the door, to shew them who were theve. 

81. 

Deep was the Dungeon, and as dark as Night 

When neither Moon nor Stars befriend the skies : 

But Charts looking in, a morning light 

Upon that gloominess rose from her eyes : 
When lo, Sytuidtsis and Logos tied 
Fast in the bottom of the mire they spied. 

82. 
So fiut, that nothing but their Lamentations 
And sighs and tears had any room to stir : 
Yea these, alas, through k>ng tageminatioos ; 
In hinguid weariness incfaainM were. 

Yet now this Spectacle's free Looks could cry, 

lliey strait found aadienoe in Pit/s eye. 

83. 

Down Phylax flies, and hovering over them 
(For no dirt may deflower his virgin wings,) 
Unties their cords ; and by their mantles' hem 
Up to the dungeon's mouth the Pris'ners biings. 
Full thick about them stuck the mire and day, 
Yet Psychs thought herself aoore foul than they. 



And falling on them with a shower of tears. 
These soon may wash your filth away, said she ; 
But my deep-grain'd PoUution out-dares 
The utmost purging power of Oceans : Ye 

BesmearM are with none but others' spots ; 

I blur'd all over am with mine own blots. 

8s. 
O add no stings to my deep Anguish, by 
Denying pardon of my mad Ofiienoe I 
Saw you but half the flames in whidi I fry. 
The sight would thaw your breasts, and kindle sense 

Of my suflident woe . But here between 

Her and her further Cdes ttep'd Clar^ in: 



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103 



86. 

Who hflstned her faito her Chamber : where ' 
No looner entied, they the Mirror Spy, 
Whidi strait grew pale, and quak'd for guiltj fear 
At that bright daim otgmuimJPMri^, . . 
Away thus Night's fidse Firea and Phantoms sneak 
When thnwgh the East the gallant Day doth bceak. 

87. 
As Pfyiax to the GUst drew Pjyiht nigh. 
She qnakM more than that. aAd sta»ed back : 
When lo, said He. this Engin§f fram'd to ly, 
Now of itself shall true confession make ; 

Urge it bnt with the Touch of any Gem, . 

Whose pbioe is meanest in thy QirdUs hem. 

88; 

Abaadd she, afiahl of further shame, 

Wayer'd a whflein uudoos suspense ; 

Her jealous food demurs still w>nt and came, 

And ftin she would have found Delay's pretence ; 
Yet judg'd it (lest at length, not to withstand 
Her Guardian* s however strangp Command. . 

89. 

O Morions power of ilMv^js^ir^/ the GJSur ,. 
Remem b red quickly its original eyes, 
And weep'd to see its stately-b««utious fooe 
Dissohr'd by one short Touch : Its fallacies 
Mdted amain, and on tb' amazed floor 
In floods of toathsome sljme.tbem«^ves did pour. 

90. 

A slime which smelt ao rank of death, th^t had. 
Not Ckarit stood 'twtxt Piycht and the Harm, 
Thad chok'd her heart : but Heav'n's a^wtfanoft made 
Her spirits chear and kept her coumge warm. 
SecurM thus ; take theoe drpp^ mofe» she oiy'd, 
And on the sUme thrice spittipg, tHm'd. aside. 

91. 

Then Jeakjus of the other CiO^ip^ 
Look here dear Friends, said she, I needs must iiear 
Some foul Enchantment hatcfaeth here its plot. 
And that these Treasi»es. in false shapes appear : 

They are Agtmar's gifts ; how can his Pelf _ * . . . 

Be made of truer Beauties thai^ himself ? 

Yon know your Touchstot», Phylaxia:^ ; kl 
Your GirdU question't and it will confess. 
That Item she obey'd no soonsr,;. but 
Forthwith her Touph was aq^wer'd by an Hiss : 
Their heads the stairting^Braodets having reard 
No Nest of Jqiirels but of SnakQS/ippear'd, 

Of younger Serpents an intaogled fry 
Thkk in the qxucer Networks twisted were : 



Who sham'd and vez'd by this discovery 
Wheted their peevish teeth, and try'd to tear 
Their textures' bands ; but when they felt the bite 
Their own hades dig, th^ angry poison spit 

94- 

The Tires and Hoods shrunk ipto Horns ; the Rings 

Dilated into Fetters ; every Lace 

Like soorchM Thongs, or smgM shrivel'd strings, 

Shewed in what burning shop it wov^ was : . 
The gaudy Bonnets and the dainty Vails 
Were nothing now but br^ss or iron scales. 

95. 

The Crisping-pins retum'd to Fo^ and Hooks, 

And Tongs, and Prongs; the Lawns to Dragons 

Wings; 
The golden Wires abjur'd their glorious looks, 
And provM red hot Nails, or Darts, or Stings ; 

The Busks, were Gaggs ; the GUoves were fiery Claws ; 

The Tablets, Boiles ; the Sandals, Tigers' Paws. 

96^ 
The Pearls, were Coals ; the Coronets, wreaths of Fhe ; 
The brisk Vermilion, was Gore or Ink ; 
The Pendls, Rods of ever-bondng Wire ; 
The Powders, Brimstone ; the Perfumes, « StU ; - 
The smiles, dark frowns ; the youth and blooming 

Cheeks, 
Dread-darting wrinkles, and stem Vulturs' Beahs^ 

97. 

The high-looks, deep dispairs and shames ; the fiuhiops, 

Sundry Inventions of most leamM Spight, 

And never-dying Torture's Variations ; 

The Silks and Satins, Coats of Aspes ; the bright 
Purple, a Lion's or a Panther's Hide 
In innocent blood of slaugbter'd Infents d/d. 

9& 

The Ermins and the Sables, were the Skins 
Which monstrous Cerberus casteth thrice a year ; 
The rich Embroideries, Ranks and Files of Pins 
Pointed with steely Torment and Dispair ; 
The Silver and the Gold that hiy bdow. 
Old Rust and Cankers which themsdves did knaw. 

99. 

As when a fond Child wantoniring on 
The flowry Pillows of the Garden, and 
Feastfaig his heedless eyes and hands upon 
Soft Maia*s Delicates, espies a band 

Of ireful Snakes rang'd hi that fidd of Joy. 

On horror's head-long wheels he posts away : 

loa 
So an these dreadful sights stroke PsyeJU through 
With full as many fears ; and bade she ran : 
But Pkylax tfo^i^is^ her, demanded how 
She dar'd thoaa Tn^piogy trust, bcfadf bad out? 



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CANTO VI. 



They too are of the same foul bceedp aaid be ; 
And will yon stfll with Hell vnyM be? 

lOI. 

With that, he anatchM off that Tiro wbidi Pride 
On her abuadd body planted had : 
Which as his Indignation threw aside, 
The gaudy Onuunents confession made 

Of their hypocrisy ; and laid their true 

And native horrid shapes hi open view. 

I02. 

Poor Psytki seeing with what Monsters she 

Had trim'd without and pleasM been within ; 

Cry'd out. O wilfully deluded Me 

Who joyM in my self-revenging sin 1 
Rise rise, O righteous Wrath ; help thou my fist 
(And here she stroke.) to pierce this treacherous breast. 

103. 

A noble Stroke was this, and won its way, 
Its happy way, quite through her broken heart 
Forthwith a oole-black stream, which swelling lay 
And belking there, took warning to depart : 

Out gush'd the Bane, and split the pots'ned floor. 

Hasting into iu Hell to find a door. 

104. 
Deliver'd of this monstrous Guest, the Wound 
Clos'd gently up, and further harm shut out 
But she her sides so lank and hoUow found. 
That for her self within her self she sought ; 
And stood awhile amaz'd, as if the Stroke 
Had only some Dream's brittle Wonders broke. 

105. 

Confounded then with pious shame, she to 
Her former Weeds tum'd her most piteous eye ; 
Whose decent honest Looks rebuk'd her so 
That back again she staggered, stricken by 

Remembrance how she them disdain'd, which now 

Outshin^d all Agemof's cheating Show. 

106. 
At length, in Sorrow's penitential voice 
Give leave, said she, my genuine Furniture 
That once again I make my prudent choice, 
Henceforth inalterably to indure. 
Or, if again I scorn your poverty, 
From Hell's foul Wardrobe may I dothM be. 

107. 

Come trusty Hairclothes, you did never yet 

Undress me of myself by garish Pride : 

Come hard, but honest Rope, thou ne'r would'st let 

Ambition blister me, but gird'st my side 
Ck>se to my heart, and leftst no room between 
For puffing strutting Thoughts to harlior in. 



108. 
So, now Tm dress'd indeed : how shameksly 
Have I unctothM wander'd up and down I 
No Nakedness in Heav'n's all-seardiiQg eye 
To that sin dothes us with ; thus ov ergr own 
With Leprosy the Man more naked is 
Than when bare nothing but his skin was his. 

X09. 

No wonder that wise Srmitt seeing me 

Mounted in Vanitie's enchanted state. 

So sadly pity'd my proud Bravery. 

Good Man, he soberiy percdvM what 
Neither my Eyes nor Ghus wouU tell me ; He 
Ev'n by my Robes my want of dothes did aeei 

Iia 

Yet can It be, that jealous /Tmv'js, and you 
O my provokMy^n^^, should not be just I 
What Privilege shields rebellious me. that now 
yimgwaiue should sheath its darM Lightning ? 

Your Patience from my Crime iU copy write. 

That both may equally be Infinite t 

III. 

It must, said Charis ; and be sure to pay 

Thy Spouse due thanks for this Necessity. 

Yet if his favours still thou kickst away. 

Know, that this Soul is not so seal'd to Thee, 
But He can find out some more fiuthfal Breast 
Which will not Love's dear VIolenoe resist 

113. 

She thus reform'd into her lowly Tire, 

Their Convert, her cdestial Friends erafanoe ; 

Kissing into her Soul fresh Joies of fire. 

And printing gracious Looks upon her lace. 
Then sitting down, to what I now prepare 
To tell said Pfylax, lend thy heedful ear. 

113. 

The story, PsycJU, bends its aim at Thee ; 

And fetch't I will from its deep bottom, that 

Thou may'st the long and total prospect see 

Of thine Extraction and original State. 
That sight wil teach thee that these simple Weeds 
Are full as fine and goigeous as needs. 

114. 
Nay more than so ; when I withal have shown 
V^hat peerless sovereign Powers flourish in 
Thy SpoMst's Hand and Word ; how iar thine own 
Condition flags bdow hb Worth ; how mean ^ 

A Match thou art for Ifim, who nothfaig hast / 
In dowry, but vUe Vamfy and Dusi, ^ 

115. 
ALL things at first was God, who dwelt alone 
In his unbounded idf : but bouateoua He 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



105 



Conoeiy'd the fonn of this Creation 
That other things by Him might Happy be. 
A way to ease his streams his Goodmtss sought, 
And at the last into a World burst out. 

116. 
Which World at first was but one single step 
From simple Nothing; yet that step was wide : 
No Power but His, or could, or yet can leap 
Over to Som€tkin^s bank from Noikin^s side. 
If yon those Distances compare with this. 
The East and West are one, the Poles will Kiss. 

117. 
This Something, Son of Nothing, in the gulf 
Of its own monstrous Darkness wallowing lay. 
And strangely lost in its confounded self 
Knew neither where to go, nor where to stay, 
Being hideously besi^'d on every side 
With 7VA«V and with Bohus boundless Tide. 

118. 
The foulest Portents never frighted Day 
With such unshapen Shapes as strugled here ; 
Whilst aU the Hiaf, as if resolv'd to slay 
What scarce was bom, broke into desperate War. 
No Hydra's heads so snarl'd at one another, 
As every Parcel rag'd against its brother. 

119. 
The Dup climb'd up and tumbled down the Higkt, 
And then again rush'd headlong after it 
Brisk busy Lightness wroth with lasy Weight, 
Him from his sleepy groveling quarters beat 
The rude tempestuous Windes blew all together. 
And fiU'd the World at once with every Weather. 

120. 
Scuffling for place, the Cold projected how. 
To frieze the Heat ; the Heat the Cold to fry. 
The Centre fouly scom'd to sneak below, 
And in Heav'n*s fttoe forc'd sluggish Earth to fly. 
Winter took heat, and stoutly found a way. 
To fling December through the heart of May. 

121. 

All Qualities ran wildely up and down, 

Ne'r thinking of Symbolic amity. 

All Motions were transverse; as yet unknown 

Were Rest and Quiet; hideous Ataxy 
Was every thing : and neither Here nor There 
Keep'd their own homes, but All were every where. 

122. 
No shores the Ocean in this Tempest knew, 
But swallow'd up the Sands ; and rushing out. 
Whilst all things else were plung'd in quarrels, threw 
His biUowy arms the Universe about ; 

Which in this dvil Deluge drown'd bad been. 

Had not the kind Creator's help come in. 

46 



123. 

Forth flew th'Btemal Dove, and tenderly 

Over the flood's blind tumult hovering ; 

The secret seeds of vital Energy 

Wak'd by the virtue of his fostering Wing : 
Much like the loving Hen, whose brooding care 
Doth hatch her eggs and life's warm way prepare. 

124. 
When lo a Voice (that all-producing Word 
Whose Majesty both Heav'n and Earth adore) 
Broke from the Father's mouth, with joint accord 
Of th' Undivided Three ; and deign'd to poure 

Itself upon the Deep, commanding Light 

To cheer that universal face of Night 

125. 
As when the gloomy Cloud in sunder parts. 
The nimble Lightning flasheth through the sky : 
So fix>m this Mass of Darkness, thousand Darts 
Of orient beams shot their brisk selves, and by 
Obedient Splendor answer'd that great Call 
Which summon'd them to gild this groping Ball. 

126. 
The Shades affrighted at the looks of Light 
To blind holes crept their shamed heads to hide. 
God pitied them, and hastning on their flight 
Safe lodging gave them in the Worid's back-side. 
There slept dull Night: but Day was brave and bold, 
And in the face of God display 'd her gold. 

127. 

Before the Sun was bom, the Day was Day. 

Least his fair count'nance should the World intice 

Unlawful homage to his Beams to pay. 

Day's parentage is clear to pious eyes ; 
Nor can she Daughter be to any other 
But Him, who is of Lights the sovereign Father. 

128. 

The next Command call'd for the JSrmament 

To part the Waters which unruly grew. 

Strait in the midst of them a Bow was bent 

Of solid substance and of crystal hue. 
The purer streams had leave on Heav'n to flow. 
The gross sunk down and roared here below. 

129. 

Which loud Impatience to restrain, their Lord 
The third day thrust them into prison ; and 
To check their pride and fury, set a guard 
Of most invincible though feeble Sand : 

For in those bounds his Law ingravM is. 

Which not the proudest Billow dares transgress. 

130. 
Thus from this flood of deep oppression fre'd 
The joyful Earth made haste to wipe and dry 

O 



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GANTO VI. 



Her blubber'd face ; and nisiDg ap her head 

Admir'd to see her own Security. 
Then smiling at the welcome sight, her smiles 
Distinguish^ her face with Vales and Hills. 

But being naked, and not knowing whence 

To doth her self, God her appearel made. 

He spake ; and lo a floury Confluence 

Her Plains and Dales with fragrant robes anmy'd. 
Trim'd were the heads of all her Hills with Tresses 
Of goodly Trees, and shrubby crispM Dresses. 

132. 

TYktfmrih Dafs work was spent on Heav'n ; which yet 
Look'd like a virgin Scrol spread £ur and wide ; 
But with no characters of beauty writ 
Till GotTs great Word ingrav'd its radiant pride : 
But Titam then came sweetly-flaming forth, 
And all the World inamor'd at his birth. 

133- 
Light, which tiU now had flitted here and there, 
Bom on the back of an ignoble Cloud ; 
No sooner spy'd his royal fuot appear, 
But in his bosom she desir'd to shroud : 

He courteous was, and to her wishM throne 

Reoeiv'd her glorious ambition. 

134. 

But being bounteous too, and mazUng how 

The bashful Sparks to beg ashamM were ; 

His lustre's flames abroad he ftedy threw. 

The Moom strait reach'd her horns, and caught her share ; 
So did the Stars : and now all Heav'n grew fine 
Whilst He both in himsdf and them did shine. 

135. 
The Hours flock'd to his foot, and touting low 
Su'd for a room in his bright Family : 
The like did cheerly Day, and made a vow 
With him to wake and sleep, to live and die. 

But conscious Night afray'd of hb pure look, 

To spotted iMna her black self betook. 

136. 

Then gorgeous Summtr came, and spred his way 

With gales of gentle air anddouds of spice ; 

Whilst jolly Fiora in her best anay 

Was prodigal of her Varieties. 
But plainer Wimttr reverent distance kept. 
And Car behind his burning chariot crept. 

137. 
The surly Sia the filt day aw6d by 
Her Lonts express Command, reply'd with speed, 
And in most dutiful fertility 
Opened her mighty womb, whence issuM 

The ^fiv^ArailiMrjaU Pair by Pair, 

The musical Inhabitants of Air. 



•38. 

The other gennan Broodt whose oMiister wings 
Abhor the drying Winds, she kept at home ; 
Where through the Deeps they fly : bom-unboni Things 
Which, though brought forth, live in their Mother's womb: 

A womb of Wonders, whose dimensions can 

Afford fall flight to vast Leviathan, 

Ixviatham, whose smoking Nostrik bk>w 
Those seas of fire whidi from his stomack break : 
Whose dreadftil tneesings by their flashes show 
The brasen scales which seal his sturdy back : 

Whose Beacon's flames out-iace the Morning's eyes ; 

Whose Heart in hardness with the Milstone vies. 

14a 
LtviathoMt who laughs at him that shakes 
The bugbear spear, and sUngs the idle stone : 
Who stedy daru for wretched stubble takes ; 
Firm Iron, for hollow feeble straw ; who on 

The boiling Ocean wreaks his hotter wrath ; 

Who where he goes, plows up his hoary path. 

141. 

Who on his Nedc no other collar wears 

But never'daunted Strength; who fiuned by 

His diet of perpetual Triumphs, dares 

The challenges of all Distmays defy ; 
And by his sprightful Looks commands the face 
Of frowning Grie/io turn J^oy's smiling Glass. 

143. 

He at whose dismal generation Fear 

Fled iarawmy, and nothing left bdiind 

But Scorm and Boidtuss; which compounded were 

Into the metal of the monster's Mind. 
Who mounted in his thoughts, doubts not to ride 
As Soverdgn Prince of all the Soms of Pride, 

143- 
But now the Sixt Day dawn'd : and Tellms is 
Commanded to bring forth her People too : 
She heard the Voice, and with strange activencss 
Made Beasts and Reptiles with her answer go ; 
For startling up whilst yet their Mother's ear 
Rung with the sound, they cry'd Lo we are here. 

144. 
Hast thou not seen the Princely Morse; whose eye 
With living lightning's fed ; whose portly neck 
Is doth'd with mighty Thunder's Majesty ; 
Whose glorious nostrils Terror's language speak ; 
Who never would believe the Triunpet's sound. 
But with proud fierceness swallows up the ground ; 

145. 
Who with impatient heat the Vallies pawsj 
When he hath smelt the battd from a&r ; 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



107 



Who mocks the sword, and brave defiance throws 
Upon the Quiver and the glittering spear ; 
Who both the Trumpet's and the Soldier's shout 
With his more martial Ha ka doth flouL 

146. 

Hast not Behtmoih seen, that moving Mount 

Of flesh and bone, that Earth* s Leviathan ; 

Whose monstrous thirst, though many a living fount 

And River it hath slain, still trusts it can 
Down through the deeper chanel of his throat 
All Jordan (ev'n in time of harvest) shoot : 

147. 
Whose Navel's Powef^s Knot ; whose strong-built T^ins 
The garrison oi Might; whose massy Bones, 
Which grisselly steel fast to their sodcets joins. 
Are brass, the less, the greater, iron ones ; 
Who mounts his awful Tail so high, that he 
Seems like the HiU. that, like the Cedar tree. 

148. 
These goodly Sons, with many thousands more. 
Were they which teeming Tellus then brought forth : 
But who shall now reign Sovereign Monarch o'r 
This and the Octads more numerous Birth ? 

So great and weighty was this Business, that 

About it God himself in councU sate. 

149. 
A Place there is retired far and high 
Amidst the Tower of eternal Rest *, 
Roof 'd, pav'd, and walM with Immensity 
Through which no Creature's boldness ever prest : 
In this, Msl Almighty ThrUs'yaaX ConsulUtion 
Determin'd of the Work and of the Fashion. 

15a 
Then stepping down to earth, this Triflo One 
Moulds up the Dust which trembled at his feet ; 
And ends his work as soon as 'twas begun : 
For now the quick shape rather seem'd to meet 
His Hand, than follow it, and every Part 
As wak'd by 's touch, up from the Dust to start. 

151. 
Fofthwith about the Universe he reach'd 
His potent Arm, and cull'd from every thing, 
The choicest Excellence which had inrich'd 
Their several Tribes, to tsim their breeding King ; 
That they with willing hearts might Him obey 
In whom their own selected Treasures lay. 

152. 
Fafr was the Image; for its lines were true 
To that brave Form which Heav'tts ettmal Son 
Had for himself design'd ; that Form which drew 
His Hand to Frame this whole Creation. 
All things attend on m^ grand Mystery: 
The world was made that God a Man might be. 



153. 
Yet still this hopfiil Model was no more 
Than, Sutue-like ; well Hm'd but cold and dead : 
When lo ih' Almighty's Breath vouchsafd to pour 
Lift's Jiood into his Nostrils ; whence it spred 

Through secret cfaanels into every Part. 

But chose its Mannor-house amidst the heart. 

154. 
That Breath immortal was, as flowing from 
His bosom whom Eternity calls Sire : 
And kindled by its Blast that noble flame, 
Which shall out-live Heav'n's stoutest fiiirest Fire. 
'Tis not the Crack and Ruin of the less 
Or greater WorU, that can the Soul suppress. 

155. 

Thus Adam op'd his eyes ; through which such beams 

Of Majesty look'd out, that gallant He 

Now by a new resemblance truly seems. 

The royai Image of his Lord to be : 
Heav'n's Sovereignty shines in God, and who 
But Man looks like the Kfaig of all below? 

156. 

And yet those Looks of his had look'd in vain. 

If he had on his fe^le self alone 

Founded hb Title, and his Right to reign : 

The k>fty structure of Dominion 
Requires a correspondent Base, nor must 
Such massy Buildings founded be on Dust, 

But by his Maher's into his own hand 
Were put the Reins of Air, of Earth, of Sea ; 
That under his imperial Command, 
All Fishes, Beasts and Birds might rangM be : 

Which, though so boistrous now they seem and wild. 

Before their King at first were tame and mild. 

158. 

This lower World's high Prince thus nobly made. 
God seeks a Palace where he might reside : 
And when the Earth his eye examin'd bad, 
A dainty Place wluch in the East he spy'd 

His liking won ; where he oontriv'd the Seat 

Of his new Viceroy, delicate and great 

159. 

It was a Garden, if that Name can speak 

The worth of those iUustrious Sweets, which there 

Conspir'd to prove that fancy a mistake. 

That Heaven dwells only in the starry sphere. 
The Earth look'd poor in all her other soil. 
Those Meanness serv'd but for this Jewel's foil. 

160. 
No Weed presum'd to shew iu roitish iace 
On this £Bur Stage ; the Nettles, Thistles, Brakes. 



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CANTO VI. 



Thorns, Bryan, Cockle. Heoik>ck, rampant Grass, 
With those dire Herbs the meagre Wiuard rakes 

Into his deadly boxes ; either yet 

Were not at all, or far from Edtm set. 

i6l. 

The Yew, the Box. the Cypress, and all other 

Sad waiters on the Grave's solemnity 

Had there no business ; Dtath, or Death's black Motktr 

v^U>t being yet conceiv'd : No crookback'd Tree, 
Disgiac'd the place, no foolish scrambling shrub, 
No wild and careless Bush, no clownish Stub. 

162. 
Grim Winter and rude Boreas foibare 
To'walk this way : so did Distetnpert, Caret, 
PerpUxitia^ Sighs, Melancholy, Fear, 
Doubts, JeaUmsits, Seditions, Treasons, Wars, 
Storms, Thun4€rs,LighiMings,Rarthquakes, Ruptures, 

Streins, 
Wounds, Boils, Diseases, inward, outward Pains. 

163. 
For on the Garden's margin ran a vrall 
Built of Delight, and buttress'd with Content: 
Beauty stood at the gate, and let in all 
Who brought the Pass of 6dr AooompUshment ; 

But if she spy'd a Wrinkle. Scar, or Blot, 

The inconsistent stranger out she shut. 

164. 

Within rose HiUs of Spice and Frankinoenoe, 

WhicC smil'd upon the flovrry Vales below ; 

Where living Crystal found a sweet pretence 

With musical impatience to flow, 
And delicately chide the Gems beneath, 
Because no smoother they had pav'd its path. 

165. 
The Nymphs which sported on this Current's side 
Were milky Thoughts, traludd pure Desires, 
Soft Turtles' ITisses, Loohs of virgin Brides, 
Sweet Coolness which nor needs nor feareth fires. 

Snowy Imbraea, cbeerly-sober Byes, 

Gentileness, Mildness, Ingenuities, 

166. 
A goodly Army of peace-breathing Graces 
Were rang'd t^ these in Love's serene array ; 
And in those multitudes of fragrant faces 
Sweet Order with Variety did play. 

Nor was it lawful One above the rest 

To magnify, for every one was best. 

167. 
Stretch'd at full length upon th' Embroidery 
Of flowry beds lay Softness, Ease, and Pleasure ; 
Whilst in the carpet walks there dancM by 
Calmness, Longdays, Security, and Leisure; 

Accomplish'd Growth, brisk Firmitude, and Health ; 

The only Jewel which makes wealthy Wealth. 



168. 

Your Roses here would soon confess their Blush 
Due to their own Defecu, should they compare 
With those brisk Eyes with which the Rosy Bush 
Looks up and views its beauteous Neighbours there : 
Nor are your Lilies white, if those were by 
Whose leaves lay ope the books of Purity. 

169. 

Lihan and Carmel bow their goodly heads 
To Paradise's foot : the Balm, Nard. Myrrh, 
And all the Spices of Arabia's Meads 
Freely acknowledge richer Sweetness here. 

Adonis Garden paralleld with this. 

No more a Garden but a Desert is. 

170. 
The early Gales knockt gently at the door 
Of every Flower to bid the Odours wake ; 
Which catching in their softest arms, they bore 
From bed to bed, and so retum'd them back 
To their own Lodgings, doubled by the blisses 
They sip'd from their delicious brethren's kisses. 

171. 
Upon the wings of those inamoring Breasts, 
Refreshment, Vigor, Nimblencss attended ; 
Which wheresoe'r they flew, cheer'd up their paths. 
And with fresh Airs of life all things befriended : 
For Neav'n's sweet Spirit deign'd his breath to join 
And make the powers of these Blasts divine. 

172. 
The goodly Trees' bent Arms, their nobler load 
Of Fruit with blest oppression overbore : 
That Orchard where the Dragon warder stood. 
For all its golden boughs, to this was poor ; 
To this, in which the greater Serpent lay 
lliough not to guard the TYees, but to betray. 

Of Fortitude there, rose a stately Row, 

Here, of Munificence a thick set Grove ; 

There, of wise Industry a Quickset grew, 

Here, flourished a dainty Cops of Love ; 
There, sprang up pleasant Twigs of ready Wit, 
Here, larger Trees of Gravity were set. 

174. 
Here, Temperance and widespred Justice there ; 
Under whose sheltering shadow Piety, 
Devotion, Mildness, Friendship planted were ; 
Next stood Renown with head exalted high ; 

Then, twin'd together Plenty, Fatness, Peace. 

O blessM Place, where grew such things as these ! 

175. 
Yet what are these, if Death's malignant hand 
May either them or their fruition blast ? 



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CANTO VI. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



109 



This to prevent, at careful Heav*ms command 

An hopeful Tree sprung up amidst the rest ; 

Which nobly prov'd itself a Branch to be 

Plnck'd from the grand stock of Eternity. 

176. 

Amidst them all it sprung ; for well it knew 

Its proper seat, and chose the Garden* s heart : 

No station but that to Life vras due. 

Whence Vigor's streams might reach to every Part. 
Fresh Heat and Spirits hung about it thick, 
The boughs all breathM and the fruit was quick. 

177. 
By this th' alluring Tree of Knowledge stood 
(For where should Wisdom dwell but next the heart ?) 
Whose leaves were written fair, but writ with Blood, 
And fill'd with Learning and capricious Art. 
O fatal Tree ! how wise had Adam grown 
If he thy wofial Knowledge had not known. 

178. 
High in the shady Galleries sate a Quire 
Suting their noble Chapel ; Birds of praise 
Whose lofty Pipes were tun'd by strong desire 
To pay for their sweet Home in sweeter Laies : 
With whom soft Echo^ proud her skill to shew, 
Though slower time she kept, yet sung she true. 

179. 

This Map of Wonders, this Epitomy 

Of Heav'n's best pride ; this Court of Rarities, 

This Confluence of blessM Gallantry ; 

Was that so much renownM Paradiu : 
Renowned ; yet how much sublimer than 
The loftiest praise it ever reap'd from Man ! 

180. 

For Man no sooner forfeited his Tenure 

In this Possession, but withal he lost 

All his Capacity to paint the honor 

Of his escheated Home : and now the most 
Which ev'n Poetic sprucest Pens can draw 
Doth more their own weak Art, than Eden show. 

181. 
The great Creator hither Adam brings 
As to the Portal of celestial Bliss : 
And, see, said He. of these illustrious Things 
Free choise I give thee, bating only this 

One Tra of Knowledge : all the rest are thine ; 

Eat what thou wilt ; but still let that be mine. 

182. 
If thy presumptions hand invades that Tree 
Thy licorish crime must cost thy life ; and thou 
By Death* t immediate tallons seix6d be : 
Death, Adam, Death hangs thick on every bough. 
What will that knowledge boot thy soul, whereby 
Thou nothing shalt be taught but Misery ? 



183. 
O noble Lord/ who to his Creature gave 
A World at once, and yet requir'd of him 
No more but that he would have care to live, 
And long injoy the World's foir diadem ; 
Who ties him to no homage, but to shun 
Being by his own fond needless fault undone. 

184. 

Did he some hardy knotty Task propound 

Which must have daily swum in tedious sweat ; 

His Vassal sure could no pretence have found 

To disobey, when hir^d by so great 
A price as All this All: yet bounteous He 
Will, like his Gift, have ev'n his servant /«*. 

185. 
After this easy Charge ; upon a Throne 
Built all of Power he his Lieutenant set, 
And at his high Inauguration 
His noblest Subjects orderM to meet ; 

Who now before his fooutool marshall'd were 

In modest equipage all Pair by Psdr. 

186. 
Strait, as his awfiil Look their duty try'd ; 
The Lyon oouch'd, the Horse let fall his crest ; 
Behemoth's tail forgot its mounting pride, 
And melted to the ground ; the Bull deprest 

His horns ; the Boar suck'd in his foam ; the Bear. 

The Wolf, the Tigre, touted low for fear. • 

187. 
Like reverence humbled down the other Crew, 
Whilst from their Sovereign's fiaurly-dreadful face 
Such beams of full imperial Brightness flew 
As spake it plainly their Creator's Glass : 
Strong that Reflection was, which could command 
The rudest Beasts this Truth to understand. 

188. 
As these admiring lay ; the Eagle drew 
Up every rank and file of winged things : 
Thither the Estrich, Vulture, Falcon flew. 
Thither a flock of every Bird that sings ; 
Thither the Peacock, but eclipsed so, 
That down fell all his Stars and trail'd below. 

.89. 

On came the most magnanimous strutting Coeh 

Disdaining heav'n and earth, till drawing nigh 

His nobler Sovereign, his surly neck 

He felt arrested by Humility ; 
His wings flag'd low, his fiery gullet grew 
Languid and pale, his comb and forehead blew. 

190. 

Wise Adam mark'd them all, and sent his eye 
To search their bosoms' closets ; where he read 



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CANTO VI. 



Th' essential lines profoundly gravM by 
Jttdidoos Nature, when she fiuhionM 

Their Differenoe, their Kindred and Relations, 
Their Powers, theb Properties and Inclinations. 

191. 
Thus privy to their inmost selves, he sought 
What Titles would most clearly signify 
Their bosoms' hidden sence : and up he wrought 
In single Words eadi Nature's mystery. 

Acquaintance then he took of them by Namt ; 

And with a princely Nod dismiss^ them. 



it^j^H^i 
gentle sigh he 



192. 



But^i^HKir march in loving Pairs he view'd, 

A gentlesigh he fetch'd. to think that He 

Should spend his nobler life in solitude, 

Whilst all Things else injoy'd society. 
What boots it him to reign as sevtrtigm. Lard, 
If all his World can him no Queen afford. 

193. 

If whilst each Bird and Beast hath leave to read 

His iterated self in his dear Mate, 

And by strait Love's prerogative can lead 

A double life in one : His sullen fate 
Imprisons him in his own breast alone : 
Alas I this thought heav'd up another Groan. 

194. 

And heav'd it up so high, that to the ear 

Of G0d it reach'd ; who calling Pify forth. 

Gave her an errand to the Deep to bear : 

Which nimble Nymph strait started through the earth 
Down to the silent mouth of that dark Cave 
Where Sorrows find their sink, and Cares their grave. 

195. 
A lazy Moat the Grot tacompassM 
With waters which were never known to stir ; 
Upon whose bank secure Oblwiams bed 
Was made of sluggish Moss and cak6d fur 
The Remoras and Crampfish groping lay 
About the bottom of the Mud and Clay. 

196. 

Up from the Water crept an heavy Cloud 
Of dusky Vapours, on whose shoulders rid 
Fat Drowsiues ; who rub'd her eyes and bow'd 
Down to her bosom her unwdldy head. 
Bats, Owles, and other purbUnd birds of night 
Stole through the swarthy shades their doubtful flight. 

197. 
Mandrakes writhin the Moat, and Poppy grew, 
Which nodded to their neighbour clump of Trees : 
Those were the Willow, Cypress, Box, and Yew ; 
Close at whose feet lay Quietness and Base; 
And nestling by their side, an half-dead crow'd 
Of Dormise and of Bears» all snorting loud. 



198. 

Through these pass'd Pity to a door of Jet, 
Whose wary ringle round was cloth'd in wool : 
The porter Silence, with his finger at 
His mouth ; when by her k>oks he guess'd her fiill 

Of more than common business with his Queen, 

Softly stole ope the lock, and let her In. 

199- 

There found she on a bed of ebony 
Ske^ lay'd at length ; her pillow, badgers' hair ; 
Thick Ni^M, fiill Peace, and soft Security 
Her rug, her counterpane, and blankets were. 

Qose by her couch's side drop'd pipes of lead ; 

A swarm of Bees were hununing at the head. 

200. 
But greater was the swarm of Dreams which walk'd 
In shapeless shapes about the throngdd room ; 
Who though they laugh'd, and sung, and cry'd, and 

talk'd, 
No noise was heard in that confusk>n : some 
Wanted an head, a cheek, an eye, a nose. 
Some arms, some legs, some feet, and some their toes. 

201. 

Some wanton seem'd, some chast, some spruce, some 

course; 
Some tame, some terrible, some black, some white ; 
Some Men before, and yet behind a Horse ; 
Some Swan on one side, on the other Kite ; 
Some Love, some Nate, some Hatf-ko^KoA Hmtf-ftar ; 
Some hcav'n, some hell, some both ; most monsters 
were. 

Indeed a few, who sleighted all the rest. 

Were lim'd and form'd by due Proportion's art ; 

With sober gravity their looks were drest ; 

Deep wonderous thoughts were hatching in their heart ; 

Sharp was their sight, and further could descry 

Than any Eagle's Sun-affronting eye. 

203. 

But now the Nymph aloud deliver^ 

Her earnest Message, jogging heavy SUep. 

She shrug'd and yawn'd, and thrice lift up her head. 

And with one eye half ope began to peep : 
Then Pity to a Box she nodded, (for 
'Twas death to speak) and so return'd to snore. 

204. 

Black was the Box, and though its bulk was littlei 
It seem'd the massy mansion-houae of Weight. 
But Heav'n's stout Messenger was made of Metal 
So valiant, that she snatch'd it up, and strait 
On noble Fervor's wings devour'd the road 
To Eden, with her slender-mighty load. 



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PSYCHE: OR love: S MYSTERY. 



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205. 
Where she no sooner dawn'd in AdanCs view, 
But he began to streak, and nod, and yawn ; 
Forthwith the Nymph a sable powder threw 
Full in his eyes ; by which quite overthrown, 
He lay supinely on a spicy bed 
Proud of the grace to kiss his sweeter head. 

206. 

His sences thus seal'd up in dainty night, 
His Soul walk'd to his brain, to take a view 
Of that prophetick but obscure Delight 
Which in his fiEmdes' fertile garden grew. 

When lo, a goodly Tree salutes his eye 

Tall, wide, and full of florid Majesty. 

207. 

The Woods k)ok'd all that way, and bow'd ther head ; 

Low crept the shrubs and due obeysance made ; 

The Plants and Flowers their fragrant duties did. 

Ambitious to be gUded by his shade. 
Thus happy he in glorie's zenith reigns 
King of the Hills, the Vales, the Woods, the Plains. 

208. 
But from his own brave stock, out at his side 
A IVig sprung up, which grew as Ceut as he : 
As high it reacfa'd its head, its arms as wide, 
And flourish^ with equal gallantry. 
Their leaves all kiss'd, their arms embrac'd each other. 
They liv'd and lov'd and joy'd and reign'd together. 

209. 
Yet soon their throne was undermin'd ; for at 
Their heedless Root a desperate Canker f^nw ; 
Which knaw'd with restless venom, till it got 
The day, and down their stately bodies threw. 
Amax'd stood Nature at the sight, and all 
llie World deep groanM at their mighty fialL 

210. 
As thus the royal Trunks in public view 
EzposM lay, abandon'd and forlorn ; 
Fkom courteous Tellus they compassion drew, 
And sanctuary found from further scorn : 

For in her bosom's safe and silent bed 

Them and her Ruins up she covert. 

211. 

The deepset Root still held its sturdy hold 

And kept its place : so did the Canker his. 

New Sprouts took heart, and followed the old 

With answerable bulk and haughtiness : 
Whose fretiiil foe persisted still to knaw, 
And soon or late layUl all their glory low. 

212. 
Long held these Conflicts, till at length a Sprout 
Sprung from a new and unsuspected place ; 



For on that side the indispose Root 
In all the World's opinion arid was. 

This only Branck scap'd being tainted by 

The inbred Canker^ s foul affinity. 

213. 
Yet scap'd he not its restles envie's stroke. 
By which the Monster stoutly him assaild ; 
Whom, when it shrinking saw and giving back. 
It impudently hop'd to have prevail'd ; 

But he recoil'd, and was content to die, 

Only to gain the surer Victory. 

214. 
For, wisely ordering his hrave Jfuin, He 
With his dead Weight full on his Enemy fell ; 
Who crushed under this calamity, 
P&y'd for his boldness and sunk down to helL 

When lo, the conquer'd yet victorious Tree 

Started up into new life's bravery. 

215. 

And after ffim those other Trees arose 

Which dead had lain and rotten long before ; 

For 'twas his pleasure to impart to those 

His own vivacious overflowing store. 
They every where leap'd up to life, and stood 
So thick, that all the plain became a Wood : 

216. 

A royal wood of everlasting TYees 

Whose Arms all reach'd out vegetable gold ; 

Whose dangling Gems sham'd India's Rarities ; 

Whose towring Heads saw heav'n beneath them roll'd. 
Yet these were shrubs to that brave Cedar which 
Had rais'd them up to this triumphant pitch. 

217. 
Whilst Adam fetter'd lay in senseless chains 
Viewing this wonderous Sight with musing thought ; 
God op'd his side, but strictly charg'd the veins 
To seal their mouths, and let no drop peep out. 
From thence he chose a single Rib, and then 
The wicket clos'd, and all was whole again. 

218. 

That Bone he handled with such breeding art 

That it dissolved into many more ; 

And due materials for every part 

Most perfectly supply 'd : what was before 
A single Rib, is now flesh, sinews, grissels, 
Blood, bones, skin, entrails, arteries and muscles. 

219. 

And that the work might suit its beauteous shop 

In which no Creature formed was but this ; 

The willing Garden's Pride he pleas'd to crop, 

This Paradise 0/ Paradise to dress. 
All Sweets and Delicacies flowM hither. 
And in one Eve were moulded up t<^ther. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO VI. 



220. 
Eve, blessM Edems only native Queen ; 
Eve, whose own Husband was her wond'rous Mother; 
Whose privilege Birth hath neither been 
Nor shall be copied by any other : 

Eve that fair Pipe through which Humamity 

Must into God himself convey^ be. 

221. 
Eve^ Topatone of the goodly-fiam'd Creation. 
The Bliss of Adam and the Crown of Nature : 
Eve, who enjoys the most removM station 
From ugly Chaos; Eve iJtaXjinal Creature, 
In whom th' Almighty Lord set up his rat. 
And only spar'd to say He *d done his best. 

222. 
Her spatious polish'd forehead was the fair 
And lovely Plain, where gentle Majesty 
Walk'd in delicious state : her temples clear 
Pomgranate fragments, which rejoyc'd to lie 
In dainty ambush, and peep through their cover 
Of amber-locks, whose volumes curlM over. 

22 J. 

The fuller stream of her luxuriant Hair 
Ponr'd down itself upon her ivory back : 
In which soft flood ten thousand Gracu were 
Sporting and dallying with every IxxJc ; 
The rival Winds for kisses fell to fight. 
And rais'd a ruffling tempest of Delight 

224. 

Two princely Arches of most equal measures 

Held up the Canopy above her eyes ; 

And open'd to the heav'ns for richer Treasures, 

Than with their Stars or Sun e'r leam'd to rise : 
Those beams can ravish but the Bodie's sight. 
These dasel stoutest Souls with mystic light. 

225. 
Two Garrisons were these of conquering Love, 
Two founts of Life, of Spirit, of Joy. of Grace ; 
Two Easts in one fair Heav'ns no more above. 
But in the hemisphere of her own face ; 

Two Thrones of Gallantry ; two shops of miracles ; 

Two shrines of Deities ; two silent Oracles. 

226. 

For silence here could eloquently plead ; 

Here might the unseen Soul be clearly read ; 

Though gentle Humours their mild mixture made, 

They prov'd a double Burning-glass ; which shed 
Those living flames which with enlivening Darts 
Shoot deaths of love into Spectators' hearts. 

227. 
'Twixt these an alabaster Promontory 
Slop'd gently down to part each Cheek from other ; 



Where White and Red strove for the Csirer glory. 
Blending in sweet confusion together. 

The Rose and Lily never joinM were 

In ao Divine a marriage as there. 

228. 
Coucbant upon these precious Cushonets 
Were thousand Beauties and as many Smiles; 
Chaste Blandishments, and modest cooling Heats, 
Harmless Temptations, and honest Guiles, 
For heav'n, though up betimes the Maid to deck. 
Ne'r made Auroras dieeks so fair and sleek. 
229. 

Inamoring Neatness, Softness, Pleasure, at 
Her gracious Month in full retinue stood : 
For, next the Eyes' bright Glass, the Soul at that 
Takes most delight to look and walk abroad. 
But at her lips two threds of scarlat lay. 
Or two warm Corrals, to adorn the way ; 

230. 

The precious Way, where by her breath and tongue 
Her Odours and her Honey travellM ; 
Which nicest Criticks would have judg'd among 
Arabian or Hyblaan mountains bred. 

Indeed the richer Araby in her 

Dear mouth, and sweeter Hybla dwelling were. 

231. 
More gracefully its golden Chapiter 
No Column of while Marble e'r sustain'd ; 
Than her round polish'd Neck supported her 
Illustrious head, which there in triumph reign'd. 
Yet neither would this Pillar hardness know, 
Nor sufier Cold to dwell amongst its Snow. 

232. 
Her blessM Bosom moderately rose 
With two soft Mounts of Lilies ; whose fair top 
A pair of pritty sister Cherrys chose, 
And there their living Crimson lifted up. 
The milky count'nance of the Hills confest 
What kind of Springs within had made their nest. 

233. 
So leggiadrous were her snowy Hands, 
That Pleasure mov'd as any finger stirr'd : 
Her virgin waxen Arms were precious Bands 
And chains of Love : Her waste itself did gird 

With its own graceful Slendemess, and ty 

Up Delicacy* s best Epitomy. 

234. 
Fah- Politure walk'd all her body over. 
And Symmetry rejoyc'd in every Pttrt ; 
Soft and white Sweetness was her native Cover ; 
From every Member Beauty shot a dart : 

From heav'n to earth, from head to foot I mean. 

No blemish could by Envy's self be seen. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



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235. 

This was the fiist-bom QmteH o/GiUlentry: 

AU Gems oompounded into one rich Stone, 

AD sweets knit into one oonspiraqr, 

A constellation of aU Stan in one ; 
Who when she was presented to thefa* view 
Both ParadiH and Nature daxel'd grew. 

336. 
Pkmbus who rode in glorious Scorn's carreer 
Aboat the world, no sooner spj'd her fiioe, 
But lain he would have linger'd, from his sphere 
On this, though less yet sweeter, HeaVn, to gase : 
TUl shame infcnc'd hfip to lash on again. 
And clearer wash him in the western Main. 

237- 
The smiling Air was tickled with his high 
Prerogative of uncontroUM Bliss ; 
Imbradng with intixest liberty 
A Body soft and sweet and chaste as his. 
AU odorous Gales that had but strength to stir 
Came flocking in to beg Perfumes of Her. 

238. 

The Marygold her garish Love foi^got, 
And tnm'd her homage to these fairer Eyes ; 
All flowers look'd up, and dutifully shot 
Their wonder hither, whence they saw arise 

UnparrMng courteous Lustre, which instead 

Of fire, soft joy's irradiations spred. 

239. 
The sturdiest Trees afiiscted by her dear 
Deligbtfnl presence could not choose but meh 
At their hard pith : whilst all the Birds whose clear 
Pipes tossed Mirth about the branches, fdt 
The tnfliMsncft of her looks ; lor having let. 
Their Song fell down, their Eyes on her they set. 

And willingly thdr proudest plumei and wings 
FoUow'd their Song : for in her Person they 
^X^th fiz'd intention read more glorious things 
Than all their gotgeous feathen oould display, 
And were content no more the Name to wear 
Qi Birds ^Paradis*, now she was there. 

241. 

Bat when she mov'd her lieet, the joyful Bartk 

Greatfnlly rous'd her best fertility, 

And by a brisk estemporary birth 

Of Flowers and Spices, strove to testify 
What carpet's pomp was requisite to make 
The passage fit where ^tear^ was to walk. 



243* 
She walk'd ; by that mild Imp or tunity 
To break her sleep-inthnlMd Sptuuts chafais : 

46 



But he wak'd more by powerful Sympathy 
Which on the sudden glowM in his veins. 
Drowsy no longer ; thus the Steely when near 
The Loadstone draws, leaps up to kiss his Dear. 

243. 

And yet a while, (for spectacles which rush 

With unexpected glories on the sense. 

Forestall their own reception, and crush 

Bdiolders' fiuth by too much evidence) 
He thought his wond'rous Dream had stiU possest him, 
And with a gentler Apparition blest him. 

244. 

But when his Eyes' discerning Test had try'd 
The graceful Object, and judiciously 
Pry'd into all the truth ; he smiling cry'd. 
This nothing but my otker sel/csM be ; 

The sweet Result of my own flesh and bone. 

And only Adam in reflection. 

245. 
From me she sprung, and like a genuine sprout 
Answers the semblance of her native stock : 
Her breed proclaims her name, and issuing out 
Of i/off she Woman is. Which said, he took 

Possession of her milky band, and strait 

SealM upon her ruby lip his ri^^t 

246. 
What mighty Tides of flaming Loves and joys 
In their first marriage-greeting met together I 
And yet as pure and chaste, as when one Voke 
In musidc's rites is wedded to another ; 
Where with ooncentrick Delicades they 
Hng and conspire in one soul-playing Lay. 

247. 
He views himself more soft and sweet in Eve, 
Eve reads in Him her self more fizt and grave : 
Either fipom other's look themselves receive, 
As fiut returning what they taking gave. 
Two streams thus meeting, find and loose each other 
r th' kind pellucid bosom of his brother. 

248. 

Nor did their amorous hands and lips alone 

In most unspotted Pleasure's juncture wed. 

But in a nearer dearer union 

Their Thoughts all kiss'd, their Hearu were marriM ; 
Their Souls so perfectly fanbrac'd, that now 
This happy Couple was but Ono in Two. 

249^ 
A blessed Copy this, for those whoe'k- 
To Wedk>dce's bands themselvs will captives yield : 
So shall thdr sweet Captivity appear 
No scene of slavery, but freedom's fidd ; 
Where though they diain^d are, the whole World's 

gains 
Can never hire them not to love thdr chains. 



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250. 

Tbey naked were, if flax, beasts* skins and hairs, 

And excrements, the sole Apparel be : 

But who will tax the Sun, the Moon, the Stan, 

The Diamond. Crystal. Coral. Ivory 
Of nakfdnfus. because the cloths they w«ar 
None but their native beams and beauties are? 

251. 

A Robe of Innocence and Purity 

From head to foot embrac'd them round about ; 

Transmitting their pure features to the eye, 

But letting no unseemly shame peep out. 
They naked were of every borrow'd dress, 
And naked of what you count nakfdneM. 

252. 
In this condition did they live and love. 
And by perpetual interchange of hearts 
Fairly transcribe our blessM life above ; 
Where through his eye his Soul each Angd darts 

Into his feUow's breast, that all may be 

In common blest by one fdidty. 

353. 

How great a Feast, and earnest inviiatioii 
Was this for Envy; whose ambitious Tula 
Disdains all Fair but in the noblest fashion ; 
Whose Jaws of greedy Iron stand agast 
At no encounter, but with restless spight 
Against the most confirmM Champions fight I 

354. 
Her Palace seated in the heart of hell. 
Is built of Cankers, Rust, and Vipera' tongues ; 
Her cursM Throne is mounted on the fell 
And boiling breast of Satan ; which she stings 
With ever-fretful rage, and makes him run 
About the wild work of Damnation. 

3^55. 

To Paradise be rush'd, and brought his HeQ 
Into that earthly Heav'n, whose dwellers he 
With anxious eye survey'd and mark'd, untU 
A Creature brisk and spruce be chanc'd to see 
Upon a bank of floury pleasures speed, 
But far more sweet and beauteous than its bed. 

256. 
It was the Sirptnt, whose illustrious sktai 
Play'd with the Sun and sent him back his beams 
With glorious use : that Wealth, which niters hi 
The proudest strand of oriental Streams, 
Salutes Aurora's cheek with fewer rales 
Than this bright robe did all heav*n's highaoon 

257. 
His sharpset Eyes sparkled with nimble 
vThe light by which his active Soul was read : 



Wisdom and Art, with aU theb plots and firames 
Chose their chief shop in his judidous bead. 

Above his fellows on Craft's wings be flew ; 

AU Boasts but he to that dull Name were tnie. 

258. 
This Agent BeiMoM approv'd ; and as 
He fed upon his couch, mix'd with his meat ; 
Which ambush help'd him his Lips' guard to pass, 
Where (having tanght his bane to rdish sweet) 
He eas'ly won the Entry of his Throat, 
And down into his bosom's centre shot. 

259. 

When subtile fire hath through the Caukiron's side 

Into its unsuspecting bowels stol'n ; 

The liquar frets and fumes, and to a tide 

Of worldng Wrath and hot Impatience swol'n. 
With boiliag surges beats the Btass, and leaves 
No way untry'd to vent its tortur'd Waves. 

260. 
So now the Sorpomt feh his bosom swell 
With peevish rage and despemte disdain : 
A thousand Plots and Cheats throng'd every cell 
And busy comer of his belking brain : 
Sometimes he beats on that, sometimes on this, 
Sometimes thinks neither, sometimes both amiss. 

361. 

He knew the vastnes of his fell Design ; 

Which was, to slay a Worid at one dead stroke. 

And reach Destruction in a pois'ned line 

Down to the hitest Twig of humane stock : 
And therefore muster'd up the boldest Might 
All HeU could send to back him in the fight. 

263. 
^t pondering then, how Adtm's sober heart 
Was amply stor'd with Wisdom's ammnnitioD. 
And strongly fortUy'd in every part 
With sin-defying Grace ; in deep suspition 
He shak'd his head, and thought the match not ev'n 
To venture on a fight with Him and Heav^ 

263. 
For if he hapned to be foild at first. 
His following onseu all would sweat is vain ; ' 
And his own pois'nous spight his breast would burst 
To see both Adam and his Off-spring reign 
Victorious Kings of earthly Fwadise, 
And flourish thence, to that abov« the flUes. 

264. 
Yet wholly to decline the Conflict, were 
To yield those Realms to Man without a bk>w ; 
And in that foolish and ignoble fear 
Of, what's but Chance's firown, an Overthrow. 
To Resolution's brink this spur'd Urn on. 
Who could loose Nothing though he aodiing v«l 



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CANTO VI. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



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26$. 
But in again his Canning pressing here, 
Advis'dhis >FntM to look before it leapt, 
And not nefltiect the Helps which offer'd were 
By &ir Adboantagt : wherefore back be stept 
And marking Evis soft Temper, thought that she 
Might less Impregnable than Adam be. 

266. 
Yet still he mudi suspected that the brave 
RefinM Metal of her virtuous breast 
Would prove so generous, that to Deetivi 
Would be an easier Task than to Ctmtest: 
But could she any ways be overthrown. 
He hop'd her fall would justle Adam down. 

267. 

The wary foe thus plants his Battery 

Agamst the Castle's female, weakest skle ; 

Judiciously hofrfng that if he 

Can there but make a breach, the fortify'd 
And well-mann'd Posts will soon appalled be, 
And yieki up all their strength for company. 

268. 
Remembring then what Engine did subdue 
A wiser Head and stronger far than her, 
And how impatient AmHHon threw 
From heavn's chief pinnacle grand iMci/itr: 
He trusts that now the like successful End 
Might on this tryM way of Eght attend. 

269. 

Inoourag'd thus ; the dangerous QuimeMenoe 

Of vwtuzous everswelling PhiUmty, 

Of DiscotUmi, of Seam, of ItuoUtui, 

Of towring fancies, and self-JUUtery, 
And of the stoutest heav'n-aspiring Pride 
Together in one desperate Plot he ty'd. 

27a 

And if this win not do the feat, yet I 
Excusdd am, said he, and upon Hell 
Be all the shame, whose King and Nobles by 
' The shock of this Temptation headlong fell 
This said, near Ev$ he gently 'gan to i^ide, 
Whom straying from her Husband he c^y'd. 

271, 
Unhappy Error that, which could invite 
The jealous Tempter to be bold, since she 
Had rx>bb'd hendf of all her Spouse's Might 
By starting from his holy company. 

But all the way the spightful Sorpent went. 

He put on looks of oontroiy Intent 

272. 
For Love and FrimuUkip smilM in his eyes. 
Fair on his fiioe sate Temdemess and Cart: 



His flattering Neck he bow6d thrice, and thrice 

His silent homage he presented her : 
And then, iair Queen 0/ Paradise, said he. 
Why must the Prince be bound, and Subjects free? 

273- 

We crop our various Joys where'r we please 

From any floury, any spicy bed ; 

Our dangling diner grows on any Trees ; 

Our Table 's over all the Garden spred. 
But royal you seem stinted in your meat : 
Have your own Wills, or God^s, this order set ? 

274- 
Admiring Eve, who had presum'd till now 
That Speech had been Man's privilege alone ; 
Thought lair respect to this new Talker due. 
And fr«ely join'd communication : 

Right glad withal to meet another here, 
Who with Discourse could entertain her ear. 

275. 
Nay courteous Serpent, she replyM, we 
Have large Commission, and our God is kind : 
He gives us leave to feast ou every TTee, 
And pick and choose and freely please our minde ; 
Bate but that one of Knowledge, on whose boughs 
Death, certain Death (for so he tells us) grows. 

276. 

O credulous Queen the Serpent answer'd, who 

Make your own Danger by believing it 1 

Whate'r it be, 'tis not Death's Tree, I trow, 

Just at whose elbow that of U/e is set 

I to your self appeal ; judge you but whether 
These two can grow like such good friends together. 

277. 
Death in a Tree/ flat contradiction lies 
Ev'n in the Terms : can Death e'r be alive? 
Sure Vegetation very ill complies 
With sapless stupor I O do not deceive 

Your thoughts, nor teach the Tree 0/ Knowledge how 

To turn a Tree 0/ Ignorance to you. 

278. 

Observe its goodly Apples : can you spy 

In those fair cheeks the gastly looks of Death ? 

What fruit in all this choise Variety 

So much of heav'n's inamoring count'nanoe hath ? 
Yet grant the worst ; suppose it deadly be : 
For antidote lo there Lijis ready Tree. 

279. 

Ask me not whether 'jyuth itself can ly : 

Since He is God, he cannot but be true : 

And theifore only by a Fallacy 

Of enigmatick Truth he cheateth you. 
Indeed the Tree bean Death; but Death which will 
Nothing but wants and Imperfections kill. 



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CANTO VI. 



280. 
Idft- ki n dli mg Diotk^ which will destroy you so 
That you no logger Creatures shall remain ; 
But by this metamorphosis shall grow 
Above your selves, and into Gods be slain ; 
With eyes divine, discerning Good from SvU, 
Fair Heav'n from Hell, an Angel from a Devil 

381. 
Of which since God is well aware, what wonder 
If he desires a God alomi to reign ; 
And so he may. if he can keep you under 
By this one politic Injunction's chain : 

If by an AfpU thus he terrifies 

The native Princes of all Paradise. 

28a. 
O how it sthigs my soul to thfaik that you 
My sovereign Queen should thus fisintbearted be I 
For my part, did ten thousand Mandates grow 
'Cross in my way to bar me from this Ttee, 

Through all I'd break ; and so would you, if onoe 
Your heart were fir'd by my experience. 

283- 
For yesterday, when first I 'gan to taste 
The sprightful Fruit, flames kindled in mine eyes ; 
My Soul awak'd, and from my bosom chas'd 
Those Mists of Ignorance whose thick disguise 

MufiOed my thoughts, and kept me down a beast 

As dark and dull as any of the rest. 

284. 
But now Sirmiiy unctouds my heart 
And yields me uncontroUM prospect to 
The Orbs of Knowlege. where frx>m part to part 
My nimbly*piercing eyes securely ga 
This is the Death I found ; a Death whidi I 
Mean every day as long 's I live to die. 

28$. 
How bright a Mom of Science then wiU rise 
In your large Soul by this enlightning 7m/ 
My breast is shallow, narrow are mine eyes, 
But wide and brave is your Capacity ; 
So wide, that Wisdom* s deepest Sea» may find 
Sufficient chanels in your mighty mind. 

286. 
And if this KmowUdgt, if Dtviuity 
It self, may merit, but the easy pains 
Of your Acceptance : Of>ersuaded be 
To suffer these inestimable Gains.* 

Shall royal You^ when I your slave may eat. 

Be bariM from this deifying Meat? 

287. 
And yet you are not barr'd : what Ramparts here 
Have barracado'd up the noble I^ise? 



What Squadrons of the ktav'ufy Host appear 
To guard these precious Boughs, and awe your eyes? 
Against your Bliss. O why shall your own Fear 
Build btthrarks, and raise armies in the air I 

288. 
You are not barr'd ; O no ; behold but how 
Y* are bidden welcom by the courteous 7Vm, 
Whose laden Arms their glorious offerings bow 
To meet your mouth, and justify my Plea. 

What more can hospitable Kindness do ! 

Their very posture's language saies. Fall to. 

289. 
This said ; the sweetly-«pightful Ttwspttr dos'd 
His fanning mouth, and proudly joy'd to see 
Relenting Evo's facility dispos'd ^ 

To swallow his bewitdiing Fallacy : 

Since with her licorish eyes she 'gan to taste. 

He hop'd her teeth would venture on the Feast 

290. 

Indeed his Charms had open stole her heart 

And delicately thrill'd their poison in : 

The smiling Apples also plaid thefr part. 

And with her tjtA her fond affections won. 
Besides, capricious Bride did her invite, 
What'er it cost, to trie that new DoUgkt. 

291. 

But having thrice step'd to th' inchanting TVwr, 

As oft her Conscience plnck'd her back again : 

Yet still, with fatal importunity 

She strugled till she broke her F^eedom'a chain : 
With uncheck'd Madness then she rush'd at leogth 
To shew her Weakness by her wilUuI 8trei«;th. 

292. 
Up went her desperate hand, and readi'd away 
The whole world's Bliss whilst she the AppU took. 
When lo, with parorimis of strange dismay 
Th' amasM Heav'ns stood still, Earth's basis shook. 
The troubled Ocean roard, the startled Air 
In hollow grones profoundly breath'd its fiear. 

293. 

The frighted Trees through all their bodies shiver'd. 

Their daunted faces down the Flowers held ; 

Th' afflicted Beasu with secret horror quiver'd ; 

With sudden shrieks the Birds the Wolkin fiU'd : 
And deep-pain'd Nature, though but fresh and new, 
In this sad moment crack'd and crasy grew. 

294. 

But absent Adam's sympathetic heart 

The sharpest fiiiy of this dint assaild ; 

Who feeling by this senigmatic smart 

Himself half-slain, still knew not what he ail'd 
Only he found his yeming bowds drive 
His anxious fear to run and see his Evo. 



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CANTO VI. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



117 



295. 

O baleful sight t his precious Queen he saw 

Enslaved by her soothing Vassal's craft ; 

Her, who was Beautie's Treasury till now, 

Of bravest wealth's prerogative bereft : 
Bereft so wholly, that vnth wondering doubt 
For his late lovely Evg in Eve he sought 

296. 

Apparent Misery sate on her Face, 
The goodly throne till now of Pleasantness : 
Her Cheeks which us'd to bloom with heav'nly grace. 
Blasted with Sin, wore now Guilt's hellish dress ; 
And at her Eyes, of late Life's windows. Death 
Look'd out ; and Rottenness flow'd with her breath. 

297. 

But sadder vras the Change within ; for there 

Her bold Transgression spred an hideous Night 

Of Blindness on her intellectual sphere ; 

Her Will, which grew before so &ir and strdght, 
T^im'd crooks and perverse : her Passions broke 
As she had done her LcnTs, her Reason's yoak. 

298. 
Her Heart, till now soft as the Turtle's sighs. 
Forgets its heav'n-inamoring Tenderness, 
And with the stubborn Parian Marble vies : 
Her Thoughts, before all Sons of Love, profess 
No trade but Mischief, deeply plotting how 
To propagate that Death she Uv'd in now. 

299. 
Nor fears her Rage to play the Serpent too, 
Mad at her innocent Husband's bless^ states 
And him with sweet-faivenom'd kindness woo 
To taste of Hell, and swallow down his late : 
Wherefore the goodliest Apples having cnll'd. 
Her treacherous hands with those lair baits she fill'd. 

300. 
Thus with a loving Gkmoe, and modest smile. 
(Those mighty Arms by which all females fight) 
She charg'd his eye ; and seconded that Quile 
By trying at his ear this vocal sleight : 

O wellcom weUoom, since I now have hero 

A banquet fit to entertain my Dear. 

301. 

Soul-fiUnbig Gates, seeds of Divimiiy, 

Edible Wisdom, and a mystic feast 

Of high Illuminations. Ask not why 

Our Jealous God hijoin'd us not to taste 
Of that whose most refining energy 
Would raise us to be Gods as well as He. 

302. 
As for the bugbear Tkreai of Death, htSbiM 
Itt conftttation fai still-florid Me 



Since I have been thus fortunately bold. 
Shall needless Dread a Coward make of Thee I 

Fall to, my joy ; I have thy Taster been. 

Think not the seeking thine own Bliss, a sin. 

303. 
So spake insidious Eve, But he agast, 
Deeply agast, reply'd with groans and sighs : 
Sadly he shak'd his head, and smote his breast. 
And roll'd to heav'n his kunentable eyes. 
Alas no need, no need there was of aims 
Him to secure against his Comsorfs charms. 

304. 
Convinced He too well the Danger knew 
Whose miserable Proof now wounds his eyes : 
^or oould the fdainly-pois'nous Apple shew 
Htm reason Hea/ffn and Virtue to dispise. 
Fast in his bosom written was the Lam, 
And reverent Terror kept his soul in aw. 

305. 

In aw a while it kept it : but at last 

CommiseraHon of his Spouse's case 

Grew to such strength in his too tender breast 

As. to himself all pity to displace. 
Eve sate so near to his uxorious heart 
That rather he with heav'n than Her will part 

306. 
For part we must ; unless he reconcile 
That mighty breach which she between them made. 
O potent Sympatkyl which canst beguile 
An heart so pure and dear-ey'd. and dqjade 
Earth's Monarch fiom his native pinnacle 
Of Imiooence, as low as Sin and HelL 

(Dull and cold-hearted Men stand wondering how 
The Loyal Lover dares throw generous Hate 
On his own Wealth and Health and Fame, and grow 
Ambitk>us to venture through the gate 

Of any Death which unto Htr uulj lead. 

In whom his dearer Life is treasured. 

308. 

They little think that here in Paradise 
His flames were kindkd ; or that He doth tread 
In tender Adam's genuine steps, and is 
Whilst thus effeminate, a Mam indeed, 

A Man ; but one who most unhappy Is. 

Ifhis^^MTiSJUbesnch an £w as this.) 

309. 
Thus Adam yields ; and eats and tears his great 
Crwaior's Law : in rending idiicli be tan 
His health, his life, his happiness, and that 
Fair robe of pureness ^ich till now he wore : 
And thus Eve^s woftd consort grew no less 
In nature, than in shamefiil Na kedn e ss. 



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ii8 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CAKTO VL 



31a. 
Their Ejes tre misenLble op'd ; and tbey 
AskawUd o/iktir Makt9^s work, repiBe 
Thftt He who other Creaftues did emy 
In Phimes, or Hairs, left them so bare a Skin. 

Fmd Criiicis, who the out-side only bhune ; 

Alas, 'twas that within deserv'd the shame. 

3". 

Yet Mdly now faideed thqr judge between 
EviiamdGood, whilst their own aeives thejr eye : 
They who before no Brfl Hiing had seen, 
Now staring stand on their own Misery : 
Which they with wretched Aprons strive to heal : 
As if the Lmutt the Af^la would conoeaL 

51a. 

Bot O I nor they, nor tat uie ^rees that grew 

In shady Paradiae to tUck and high, 

Could any shelter to thefr shame aSow 

When lf€ came down to search who iMoUBft. 
Yet finds He them by slow degrees, that ao 
They stiU a fiicnd might count him, not a Ibe. 

3«3- 

He saw at first ; but would not seem to see 
A sight which wounded Us CompassioB*s eye. 
He saw ; but ant a gentle CaUio be 
Their Moniter, and give them space to fly 
To Mercy I help, before Rwemgt should draw 
Her sword to vindicate his Injur'd Law. 

0eoent and Just the Dialect had been, 

Had he in formidable Thunder spake : 

But, having found the Rebels, of their Shi 

A soft enquiry He was pleas'd to make : 
Thus begging their Canfession, and that they 
Would with their Crime their Penitence dis{day. 

315. 
Yet they with Shifts and bold Pretences try'd, 
What should have been bewaiMd, to defend : 
And by that wretched impudence defy'd 
Mercy, who all this while dkl them attend. 

This foroAd Jiutice who came rushing in. 

And did her office upon saucy Sim. 

316. 
She first pronounc'd that Curse; which deep was writ. 
In adapift*?*^"t Tables, ne'r to be 
Revers'd by Clemency : Then out she shut 
The proud Delinquents, setting Eden free 
From its nniMithy Guests^ and ordering iMe 
To range a doable Guafd befom the Gate. 

317- 
ATPOopof OJ ^n nfaatrait m a r s halMd 
At th' Eastern Avemie tn dindfiil stale : 



And then a flaming fiuilchion brandished 
Terror about the way, that none might at 

That door of Happiness pass in, but who 

By try'd Purity through fire could go. 

318- 
The woftil JSxiJer were no sooner oome 
Into the wide wikl worid. but Adam sees 
The heavy loss of his incios6d Home : 
Finding, in stead of blessed Flowers and Trees, 

Thistles and Thorns aU arm'd with pikes and pricks. 

Amongst whose crow'd he vezt and tatter'd sticks. 

319. 
Long was his ToO and Strife ; eir he could make 
The Ground give fertite Answer to his sweat. 
Nor sought the righteous SartM alone to take 
This vengeance on his Crime: but all the great 
Cognations of Beasts, Birds and Reptiles broke 
Off from their sullen neclu his regal yoke. 

Those who were able, mustered up thefr might 
Him in their MaJUr^s quanel to persue : 
The weaker from his presence sped their flight 
l^ofessing now they knew no homage due. 

Thus by their fury those, these by their fear 

Equally frightful and vexatious were. 

331. 

No friend he had but Her who dfd betisy 
Him to that need of friends, unhappy A« .* 
Yet must the reaping of his sweetest Joy 
CX what was sweeter Him and Her deprive : 

Their gains unable were to quit the cost. 

For now tbefr dear Vlrghiity was lost 

3»- 

Through many nauseous nentha poor EVcnrast pass 
S'r die can to her hardest Trwd eome 
O who can tell the PUngs by whkh she was 
Tortur'd and torn, when her (inpatient womb 
It self unkMided I for the Cmrte was nre. 
Nor coiddlhflie Tormenis ever find a cur. 



33> 
In shi oonoeMiB ih* fatoug^t Cotth in pain, 
And with PoUutkm ^d her PfcogMiy : 
Through all Successions her anneiled Stain 
Still propagates its own Deformity, 
And all her Heirs binds hi an obligation 
Of DeatM, and what is dsadUcr, DammaHom, 

334- 
Besides, the peevish and importunate Uek 
Of restless kicking at HeavaCs gentle Law, 
Proudly triumph'd hs fretful Taint to stretch 
Through aU the Current of her Blood ; which now 
In humane veins so madty boileth, as 
Proves that it kindled at Hell's, fiiraaoe was. 



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CANTO VI. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



119 



325. 
Tlnis when inlasM Death Ihres in the Spring, 
AH those faivenom'd streams which from it run, 
How Ceut or wide soe'r they travel, bring 
Along with them that first contagion : 

The furthest Drop not knowing how to scape 

The readi of that original Mishap. 

326. 

Yet call not God unjust, who suffers thus 

Poor harmless Babes e'r they be bom, to die : 

Unsinning Sinners ; strangely vicious. 

Not by their Faults but their Afl&nlty : 
He's righteous still and kind ; and knows a way 
Through Wrath and Judgment, Mercy to display. 

327. 

No Plot of Saiam's spight must undermine. 

Or make a breach in His Creation's frame. 

Nature shall still proceed, and Heaven's Design 

Of Man's Felicity persist the same. 
Godlikt it is indeed Pate's scales to turn, 
And make them BUti who to a Curse were torn. 

328. 
Blest with mora generous and victorious BUu 
Than if the Cursis brand had never seal'd 
Them up in slavery to Death ; thus his 
Renown more glorious is who wins the field 
After his Overthrow ; than theirs who ne'r 
Disaster's game, and Comquesfs booty wera^ 

/ 329. 

The black Inheritance of Adam's Crime 
As G^ permits to fiedl upon his Heirs : 
So He. provides to re-imbellish them 
With fiurer nobler portions, and repairs 
The Damages which from their Parents' veins 
They drew, by most invaluable gains. 



330. 
In JESU's Blood such puxging Power flows. 
That from it's smallest Drop's akxmquering Heioe 
Away fly both the Stains which blur the Boughs 
And that which banes the Root of Humane Race. 
And this dear Fountain in Decree was broach'd 
Long e'r the Soul by any Taint was touch'd. 

331. 

They who desiie't, may here refined be 

Into a Claritude becoming that 

High Paradise^ of whose Felicity 

Fair Bden only was the Shaddow : but 
Such Blisses Soomers would themsdves have thrown 
To HeU, though Bve had never help'd them down. 

332. 
And tell me Psyche, what thou thinkest now 
Of thy BxtracHon, which from wretched Dust, 
The scum of Earth, and game of winds, doth flow : 
What of thy Kindred^ s rottenness, who must 
Corruption for thy Mother own, and all 
The Worms, which crawl in mire, thy Sisters calL 

333. 
YtXWepusJmi to one only death are heirs, 
A ij^h which quickly will it self destroy : 
But thy Composure in its bosom bears 
A living Poison, that may find a way 

To kill thee with surviving Death, by which 

Thy Torture to Eternity shall reach. 

334. 
Think well on this, and if thou canst, be proud. 
Who by the PrMe of thy prime Parents art 
Vnth this destructive Portion endow'd. 
And fix>m thy Birth betroth'd to endless smart. 
Think what vast gulfs of Distance fix^d be 
Twist Majesi/s great King, and worthless Thee, 



NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Stana^Lc'iwiiir'safiectedlynuut. St y, L 3, 'fFtM#' 
sband (7 tirigB. St. 8, L 6^ «>uf ' = fodUsh. St 15, L 5, 

* bmt*^ hatt— arrow-DUffk. St X7, L •, * ^wnr*— tee Glooarial 
Indnt, s,v, St 24, L 4f 'rwl'sobttmction. St ^a, L a, 
'eeutar: C£st«^L6w. Stij,L3, *ceiiy^m\yi L 6, 
'/oM'spaini, painstakiiis. St 43, L 5, 'Bjiuatum'^ 
lifmntatkirSt 48, L 5. ^haliem' * hfoXlow. St 5> t s> 

* UmUd' = b«iid«l. St, 8s, } ^^ * ^ ' * ' = wfnpMca- 
tions. St 93, 1. a» *sprmer' = nicer. St. 9^, I 5, ' Bmks ' = 

r of women's sUys. St 103, 1, 1, *helking = belching. 
117, I. 6, * T&M* . . . ^M****'— Hebeew terms in com- 
mencemeQt of Genesis denoting the primeval chaos or waste. 
St 121, L 4, *^/rtjrr* = dUturbance. St 126, I. 4, * back-side' 
—see Glossarial Index, s.v. for a full note on this curious word. 
St 13s, I. I. • huting* Cf. 8t. 55, I. 5- St 136, 1. 3, * jolly' - 
joyful and 'pretty.* St 138, L 1, * gtrmmnj — related. St. 147, 
I. 3, ^ pri$siuy''=^ grisly. St 130, 1. 4, * quick' = living. St 160, 
L I, "roUitk* — see Glossarial Index, s.v. : I. 4, * rampant* ^ 
rank. St 161, 1. 6, * ^/k^ ' = stock or stem. St. 165. 1. 3, 

* tralHcid"— transparent St 167, 1. 5, *Firmitudt'= sd-eogth, 
solidity. St 169, L i, ' Z.iAa« ' = Libanrus, Lebanon. St 173, 
L 4, •Co^** = copHc, St 176, L 6, 'quick,* See 00 L 15a 
Sl 180. 1. 4. ' csi/u-aUd' — Law-term for forfeiture: 1. 5, 
■ r/.. , /■ ._. ,. . ) , '^. , , ] ■ , , '.A '= keen relish : 
L ^ ' ^M>^ ' ^ .k\Mi, iMUMiu^ w« dw«, L 4, ' .^irit^k ' = ostridj. 
St 193, L s, * iterated* ^npeaSiod. St 194, L 6, * Hmh' ^ 
\$km. St 19B, 1. a, 'rwtf^'s circle St aoi, L z, *C9ur$§*» 



St floe,L 6, * Sun^JffVMtit^* ^mm4Kaag or gtaxDg. 
St ao5, L s, <#/rMA* = strttl)ch. St ai8, L 5, 'gritttls' ^ 
cristles. St aaS, L z, 'CtuAotuts*^ little cushaona: I. 6, 
^slteh ' a mooth. St 333, 1. i, ' itgiadmu '~from leggiadro 
ic a diracticMB lo tba pl^rer that the place ao maiked ia to 
en gayly or briskly. St a^^ L x^^ PoUturg* ^ poUah. 
S, L 3, ^ coHsfiruc^* = combinatioQ (in a good aenaeX 



be given 

St a35, _ ^ 

St asa I. 5, ' ilr/ = hindrance, i.e. the duml 
fltience of her looka. "' 



St a4fik 1. 3, * mtemtiom * = attent 
eameat looking. St a4z, L a, *Gr9a(/itlfy*= gratefiiUv— ndl- 
ing to be noted. St aso^ L a, * AsmrMMiiif ' b coral (aee L 4). 
St ac6, L J, ' «ar ' = intcreat and coapound iatetcat St aoo, 
L 4, ^belk*$i£* =: bekhing, as before. St aSs, L i, 'Science 's 
knowledge. St 981, 1, a, * harracaddd* So Daviea of Rera- 
fbrd in Microcotmoa (p. u, ooL i, L ao), ' bamcado* (ChertMy 
Worthies' Library editionX St 99^ 1. 4, J/mm/'ss foolish. 
St 993. L 4, ' }VolkiH*^ weHdn^nearer the German form : ih. 
L 6^ ^C9adtd*^tmL St agS^ L i, 'w4/^rMi/'» evidently- 
appearing or seen. St 301, L i, ' Caies^^ daintiea. St 309, 
L 9, * ttul'Jterid* ss still flooriahing : f^. L 5, * 7<w/rr'— as an 
official of royal households (In the East) 'tasted' of every 
dish before it waa praaented to tke aowraiga. St 319^ L «, 
'C<KiM/»MW*s kindred. St saa, L a, ' TVmw/' s travdl 
St 393^ L 3. '««MrsiSM/*=. annealed— luce andent glass not 
auptffioally out in the substance. St 930, L 5, ' hvch^l' s 
opened. St 331, L a, ' C/an'/witr ' = cleamcas, pozity. St 
333* 1* 3» *CempMure ' s mixture. — G. 



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CANTO VII. 
The Great Little One, 



The ARGUMENT. 

Tht Angiel eoK09ys Psiyche to tki Sctiu 
O/lAeny'9 grand BxpMtt, U lAcw Mir what 
Dior can ii cost ktr Lord to waskhtrcloau 
Fr9m every sim^l Soal^d^tomring Btot, 
BcHwus JU 'gins, and from tki morning Glory 
Cfljani*%brigkiVtnih ligkis in tkiUissdd^iwj. 



IUusCrioas Spirits ^Fin, whoe'r yoa be 
This LesBon will with no discredit oool 
Your towring Fhunet ; nor must heroic Ye 
To Psychds Legend scorn to go to School 
Such Sparks as you for all your glittering, be 
In your original as dim as she. 



AH moontfaig Fires at leqgth to Ashes bow ; 
So must brave ye : yet they wen lighted from 
Some generously-flaming Fount ; but you 
And your Extraction from dead Ashes oone. 

Whither forward you or badcward turn your eye. 

Your Bounds are Vileness, Shame, and Misery. 



No aromatic Baths ^diidi wantonise 
In costly dalHanoe with the pamper'd skin : 
No proudly-sumptuous Robe which fortifies 
Your flesh with gold and pearls and gems ; can win 
Upon your Frineiplis to make them bend 
Life's race to any but an odioms Bnd, 



Examin Atixandn^s Monument, 

And cast on HiMs Tomb your searching eye : 

Or if your nostrils dread the banefial scent 

Of their in vahi embalm6d Majesty ; 
Trust that strong Pkoof , which bids you sadly think 
That you, though great and fidr, must end hi sthik. 

s. 

But trust not Fridi, whose tumid treacfaeiy 
Could all the World to Rottenness betray. 



No Mson's fury ever swdl'd so high 
Or to such certain Death piepar'd the way. 
Steep headlong Z)«v«r on the mountains rdgns : 
Who would with Sa/iity walk, must trsoe the pkuns. 



Plain are the PMfas of mild Nmrnility, 
And hatch no Precipice, but plamed are 
With sweet Cdntcnt and pious Privaty, 
WUh cheerful Hopi, and with securing Poor, 
Rmitsds prevented and diaarm'd by those 
Who in the lowest orb their motion choose. 



The TWR^^cff/ aim fights with those loAy thfaigs 
Which rise agafaist it, and its strength deiy ; 
This to the higfa-look'd Pines destructk>n brings, 
Sufiing the modest shrutn in peace to lie. 

Thus come proud Rocks to rue the angry Wmd. 

Which to the humble Vales is always kind. 

8. 
Right provident's this Vtrtm, and aoqualnu 
Aforehand with her Dust and Ashes ; she 
Dissembleth not by any flattering Paintt 
The wrinkled Warnings of Mortality. 
She dies betimes, how long soe'r she lives, 
And Death but as a loQg known friend reoeivea. 



Her hearse she hogs and dares imbraoe her tomb. 

And pant and long her final Ev'n to see ; 

When in that oool and undistuiMd Home 

Her weary head to rest may setlM be: 
Assured of a ^iMM/ whose care hath found 
For her to heaVn a passage under ground. 

la 
She strongly woos the Worms to craul apace ; 
She prays, not slow Corruption, to make haste : 
Toward Death for life she runs, and thinks her noe 
Was ev'n in youth an age : On, on as last 
She speeds, as sighs of love can blow her, or 
Fire of unquenchable desire can spur. 



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CANTO VII. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY, 



121 



II. 

O mtikAmHHoH, which canst Pride convert 
Into a Virtue, and make Venom grow 
Plain Antidote I by thee th' imbraved Heart 
Aspires and readies still to be more low; 

And {Hides itself in nothing but to be 

From Pride's dominion intirely free. 

12. 

So free, that when all contumelious Scorn 

Marches against her in complete array. 

She meets her Shame, and joys to be forlorn, 

And by despisM yielding wins the day : 
She wins ; and like the Ball, the more profound 
Is her depression, doth the higher boimd. 

13- 
The seeds of this fair Grace deep planted were 
In Psyche's tender breast by Charis's art. 
Which, as they sprouted up, with heav'nly care 
To weed and dr«s them Phylax play'd his pcut. 
And now to make them flourish higher, she 
Will with her liberal tears their Waterer be. 

14- 

Her Guardian his discourse no sooner ends, 

But she begins, first with her showring eyes ; 

Then with her tongue, which with those torrents blends 

Its lamentations : Wo is me, she crys, 
What now shall Psyche do, who needs would be 
Pft>ud of her shame and pois'nous misery I 

15- 
Your scorn, so deeply eam'd by wilful Sin, 
My ynongid friends, as due to me I daim. 
My guilty Soul's caldn'd, O Charis, in 
Those heav'nly beams which in thine aspect flame. 

How can such Nightbirds as yile I indure 

The h<dy lightning of a Look so pure 7 

i6. 

Stmnge me 1 who must for your neglect petition. 
And sue to want the influence of Bliss : 
Whose sickness makes me dread my best Physition : 
Whose hopes of ease, are only more Distress : 
How sadly cross is my Calamity, 
That now your Anger must your Pity be 1 

17. 

And yon dear P^lax loose your pains no more 

On an incorrigibly-hideous Thing. 

Why should proud Psyche dwell as heretofore 

Under the shelter of thy slighted wing ? 
O let it free itself, and take its flight : 
Let not black I defile an House so white. 

I& 
The odious Bat with more decorum will 
Flatter about what is as dark as she : 

46 



Her sooty wings will make a seemlyer vail 

For correspondent ugliness in me. 
The ominous Raven more sutably vrill spread 
Her swarthy plumes o'r my polluted head. 

19. 

Let me enjoy the just inheritance 

Of my deep-stainM birth : was I not bom 

Apparent heir to an entail'd Ofiience : 

And in my wretched Being's lowry mom 
Dawn'd not eternal Night? what alas. 
In my life's sgitmg but death infusdd was? 

20. 

And to those shameful Prindples have I 

Not been too truly true ? have I not trod 

The ways of darkness ever since mine eye 

Behdd the light ; and kicking at my God 
Approv'd mysdf Her genuine brat, who chose 
Her Eden rather than her Lust to loose? 

21. 

Why must my breath deflower the virgin Air? 

Why must I load the harmless Earth with guilt? 

Why must I blot the world, which would be fair 

Were I away ? my tomb is ready built 
In any place where filth and dunghils lie : 
IjfX justice have her course, and let me die. 

22. 

There 's my due home, where Arrogance and bold 
Rebellion dweU ; O let me thither go I 
May worthy Eyes bdiold the Sim's fair gold. 
And view their way to heav'n : I have to do 
With nought but Pitch and Blackness, which may hide 
The equal horror of my stubborn Pride. 

/ 23- 

My injur'd Spome, (O why do I blaspheme t) 
That Spouse who long desired to be mine ; 
Methinks from heav'n doth with a searching beam 
Full on my iztst and faithless bosom shine. 
And by that light read all the treason I 
Have wrought against his loving Majesty. 

24. 
O, it will scorch me up I my siimews crack. 
My bones are burnt, and all my marrow files ; 
My bosom mdts, the flame devours my back, 
My heart flows down, and wretched Psyche dies. 
I die, yet breathe ; my Death surviving is : 
O what what slaughter ever slew like this ! 

Surdy the flames which bum all Hdl so black, 
Are cool and gentle if compar'd vnth these ; 
Why go I not to hug my kinder Xacht 
And from th' infernal Torments borrow Ease ? 
Forbear fond fruitless Tears ; your flood 's too weak 
The greater Toirent of this fiire to slake. 



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36. 



Here Pkylax boe ; lo I mysdf ungird I 
This Tnktm can no treacheroos heart befit 
Retnni it back, that my abnsM Lard 
Some lojal constant Soul may Kiace with iL 
What, win it not imbiiciae? mnst I be 
Stin pris'ner to this wroogM Cooitesy? 

27. 
And must this GMU* now tMSlece me romid 
WUh an indlsMloble Check of my 
iQgimteftil madness? mnst I thus be bound 
Up in mysdf, and not have lOom to fly 

F^om wbmt I mote abhor than Death and Hell ; 

The sinfiil Btou which this vile bosom swdl ? 

38. 

So strait about my gripM soul the dMins 

Of deep Damnation can no torments ty, 

As this sweet Cimehtn binds me to the pains 

Of seUbonlusion : O me I— Here her cry 
And wounded Spiritt fiUnting. down she lell 
Grii/s total pray, and PU/s spectacle. 

39. 

At hand was Pity, Ckaris bdag by. 

Whose yearning soul all Psyekg's sighs did move ; 

But roos'd more by her fidl. she instantly 

Awoke the nimble violence of Love : 
Love fir'd her heart, her hand her heart obey'd. 
And quick relief leach'd to the swoning maid. 

30. 
Whom up she snateh'd, and with a sweet embffMe 
InstilMd gentle warmth into her bieast ; 
Whose entheotts energy knew how to diase 
Gr^Ts vast Plethora from its deepest nest ; 

And by delicious degrees restore 

Her shipwiack'd tboughtt to their oompos^d shore. 

31. 

Thus a new stodi of spiritt have I seen 

HtaUKi Factor to his fiiintfaig PiOUmi give ; 

Who though his heart vrere sunk and gone, doth In 

The predous Potion it again receive ; 
Whilst from the dieeily Salutiferous ciqi 
A dnuight of liquid Life he drinketh up. 

Awakened Psyclu with amaxM eyes 

Beheld her Fritndt; but wonder'd more to lee 

Her stout Disease so tame a Sacrifice 

To that celestial Cordial which she 
Fdt in her glowing breast so stiangdy iiAait 
Her heart, both with Astonishment and Ease. 

33. 

For up and down ambiguous fancies tost her, 
Uncertain whither some dream's flattery 



Into a vain Etyshmi had cast her ; 

Or by some courteous Gale's compassion she 
Were truly snateh'd from Sorrow's rsging biOows, 
And on the bank lay 'd safe on Peace's pilkiws. 

34. 
Which Olom marking ; yon may trust, said she. 
Your sadden Happiness, which wears no Cheat. 
Bat see that you misplace no thanks on Me, 
Which all are due to none but to your great 
And constant Spomu, ^o though by you forgot. 
Could not so soon his Love's remembrance bkit. 

35. 
Those lifiMnenewfaig sweets I brought you down. 
Were none of mine ; He sent both them and me : 
Your wantt He knew, and counted them his own. 
Who k»g has ksog'd you Om wUk kim vrould be. 

Then by these Comforts which have cur'd itt smart. 

Learn who it is that most deserves your heart. 



And O take heed you dally not too long. 

Nor frmcy that to yon Necessity 

Has chain'd his love : for tiiongh fiill many a wroog 

He can digest, yet there 's a time when He 
Mock'd and neglected, justly vriU disdam 
To wooe his peevish worms, and love in vain. 

37. 
O'rpow'rd with most unweildy thanks and praise 
At this vast tide of her obtruding Bliss, 
Here Psj^kd strove her labouring breast to ease : 
She strove, yet could nor thanks nor praise express ; 

For vrhat she had conceivM. was so great 

She neither could contain nor utter it 

38. 

But Pkyiax pitying her sweet agony, 

C^d, lis enough ; Htav*n hears ev'n mute desires. 

Come Pty€U^ you shall travd now with me. 

To find frill fiwl for your amorous Fires. 
It win be worth your voynge, when yon see 
What balm there grows to heal your misery. 

39. 
The (^tf ^GpmAmm by his powerfitl ejre 
Reachiog those Things which yet were short of Bdng. 
Read In the volumes of Eternity 
The fortunes of the foture World ; vrhere seeing 

What mischief would be done by foolish Pridi, 

A potent Remedy He did provide. 

40. 
Indeed had no Redemptkm's Need invited 
Thy Spoms^s Bkmd to wash the stains of sin ; 
To Man's poor Nature he had still united 
His own ; that all this ^// might thus have been 
lyd to itt foving Makir, and by this 
Dear Knot become near sharer in His Bliss. 



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123 



41. 

(Else mnst the worid acknowled^ Adam*s Crimt 

To be its Patron, and oonfest that all 

Its exaltation unto this sublime 

Felicity ariaeth from the Fall: 
Else must his bold Rebellion by that God 
Have been ordain'd, who strictly it forbod. 

Ordain'd it must, it must, have been, miless 
The glorious Tkeantkropick Mysttry, 
Which an ImmemHHti RxploiU profess 
The greatest, noblest of their rank to be, 
Huog 00 vile Ckands wheel, and so became 
No arUdn Projtct^ but an AfUr-gamt,) 

43. 

Bat seeing by hereditary stams 

The stream of Human blood runs foul and black ; 

Meet work it found the Virtue of His Vehis 

The poison of the tainted Flood to check : 
Which how He nobly manag'd, thou shalt see. 
When I have led thee through his History. 



As now She cheer'd her heart and count'nance up, 
A ladiant Chariot caught her wondering eye : 
The fervent Stt$ds foam'd at that little stop, 
And though thefar wings were down their thoughts did fly 
Spttd was the Chariot's metal, and each wheel 
Fhun'd of the heart of nevertiring ZeaL 

45- 
Come Psyclu come, the Coach for haste doth call, 
Qry'd Phylax; fear not, 'tis no Cheat, nor wiU 
This, like thy other, whirle thee to thy Fall. 
In, in ; the Rehis In my sure hand shall dwdL 
If you, sweet Sir, will have it so, content 
Said die, and meekly bhishing in she went 

46. 

For now she durst no more distrust his Care ; 

Which though she understood not, yet she loved : 

Three times she op'd her lips, but reverent Fear 

Her Curiosity as oft reproved : 
His Company so predoos was, that rather 
Than ask, she yidds to go she knows not whether. 

47. 

Up flew DtuoHon and Chastity, 

The gallant Steeds, and snatch'd the wheels away. 

Her native Atbiam. strait forsook her eye, 

Lost in a Sea of Air : and now the gay 
Wealth of the Fiddsof GaUia back as last 
Bdiind her fled as she did forward post 

43. 
Then climbing higher in her yielding Road 
Eternal banks of ohitinafe Rost and Snow, 



By which stem Winter th' At^* proud back would load, 
Spight of the nearer Sun, she leaves bdow ; 
And malgre all the sullen justling Clouds, 
Down through th' Italian Heav'n directly crowds. 

49. 

Into that Region thence she launch'd, which by 

The AdriaOch stonns is wont to frown ; 

And fiur beneath her saw that Octan lie 

Whose midrland Arms about the Isles are thrown : 
So well did Phylax stere. that to a Port 
So distant, ne'r was made a Cut so short 

50. 
For having reach'd blest PaUstitu^ and flown 
O'r several groveling tovms of Galilee, 
Her steeds in gentle circles flutter'd down, 
And made their stand at Na»areth : where she 
Viewing the simple 'Village, wonder'd why 
Her Convoy thither took such pains to fly. 



But Phylax leading her into the most 
Unlikely house ; Consider well, said He, 
This precious Monument, whose want of cost 
Upbraids their airoganoe who needs will be 
Immur'd in Cedar, and roofd o'r with Gold: 
O that poor Dust should be so proudly bold 1 

52. 

This sflly Mansion, though it scarce could win 

Ev'n Peverty herself to be its guest. 

Was once the House and Home in which the Queen 

0/ Glories kept her court : in this mean Nest 
Dwelt She, in whose illustrious Family 
Heav'n long'd and joy'd a sojourner to be. 

53. 

She, th' Sxeellence and Croum 0/ Females ; She 

Great Jacobs Ladder; Aaron's hudding Rod; 

The crystal Princess 0/ Virginity; 

DaviSs fair Tower; the Mother of her God; 
Mary herself: O may that lovely Name 
Be Blessings but, and Fame's eternal Theme? 

54. 
Her plain cates there she eat ; or rather kept 
Her healthful rules of sober Abstinence : 
Her prayers there she ply'd ; and there she slept 
When midnight Kal had tir'd her mortal sense. 

No Corner in this house but heavenly she 

Knew how to dedicate to Piety. 

55. 

How many Temples in this narrow Cell 

Were by her brave Devotion rear6d up ; 

Who gave each Virtue licence here to dwell ; 

But at Shi's knock the Door refiis'd to ope, 
Since she appointed had Humility 
For Porter, and made holy Fear the Key. 



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5^ 
Here on her pious knees she wept, one day, 
y In wondering meditation of that SJU 

^ Whom Gcd would choose to make the noble way 

Unto his own foretold Humanity; 
That Ski, who to all Females would restore 
Much more than Eve had forfeited before. 

57. 

And musing what strunge-temper'd soul it was 
Which could be capable of such divine 
Prerogatives and holy Glories, as 
Would make the goodliest Seraph fitirer shine : 
Unto that sweetest heavenliest Riddle's praise 
Her delicate Astonishment she pays. 

58. 
Not for a thousand worlds would she have thought 
Her self the iomgcUsignid She : but rather 
Would at a thousand thousand's price have bought 
A Handmaid's place, to wait on that great Mother; 

To wash her blessM feet, or bear her train. 

In whom all Excelleiue rejoyc'd to reign. 

59. 

But whilst her meek admiring fancy towred 
Through this high Contemplation, and her eyes 
Their joyous and applauding crystal poured ; 
A bright and gallant Stranger hither flies : 
One who from heav'n her sweet Reflection brings : 
And was her Copy, bating but his wings. 

60. 
Youth bloomM in Us lace, the blessM throne 
Where purest Beauties in fair triumph sate : 
A brisk and sparkling Combination 
Of ravishing Joys in either Eye was met : 

His Looks commanded Love, but ugly Lust 

By potent Purity they still represt 

61. 

His head was crown'd with its own golden hair, 
Which down his back its dainty riches shed : 
The Alabaster of his neck was bare ; 
Sweetly betraying what below was hid 

In his green ambush of that robe of silk. 

Which gently hover'd o'r his fleshy ndlk. 

62. 
This robe was garded with the orient lace 
Which trims Aurora's viigin coat : N^eet 
Seem'd to have put it on. yet comely Grau 
Its incompos'dness curiously deckt. 
And thick in every careless fold and plait 
To catch spectators' wonder lay in ¥rait 

63. 

A silver Girdle with the ready mode 
Of nimble Travellers his loins imbraoed : 



Like Love's bright Bow his left arm bended stood 
On his £sir side ; his right hand bore, and graced, 

A Lily, which by proofs soft, white, and sweet. 

Near kindred claims with its dainty seat 

64. 
The Candor of his Wings was no such kind 
Of glaring thing as stares in Alpine snow. 
Or in the Cignet's bosom is inshrin'd. 
Or in Milk's supple streames delic^ts to flow : 

But of a starry tincture, pure and bright. 

Made not by scorching but by whitening light. 

65. 

An heav'nly Citisen was He. and one 
Whose place is in a higher form than mine : 
In near attendance on his Maker^s throne 
His aichangelick beams have leave to shine : 
And thence, when Heav'n has greatest bus'ness here 
He is dispatch'd the choice Ambassader. 

66. 

But though his eyes their education had 
Amongst those Claritudes which gild the skies. 
He found that he at home had never read 
So much of heav'n at large, as here he spies 

Epitomised in the k>vely Glass 

0( Mary's modestly-illustrious &ce. 

67. 

And Hail said he. thou dearest Favorite 

Of Glcrie's King, in whose selected breast 

His Majesty with singular delight 

Designs his private and mysterious Rest. 
Hail Thou the Crown ofFewtales, on whose head 
Their best exuberance all Blessings shed. 

68. 

The meek Maid started at his stately look, 

And SaluUtion's strange sublimity : 

The complemental Yonth she oould not brook. 

Who us'd all charming company to fly : 
Until his wings admonish'd her. that He 
One of her wonted heav'nly Guests might be. 

69. 

Yet still her lowly Soul oould not digest 

The tumor of his odd Hyperbole ; 

Which long she boulted in her thougfatfiil breast. 

Deeply suspicious least some flattery 
Had borrow'd an Angelick sh^ie. by which 
A Woman it more eas'ly might bewitch. 

70. 
O stnnge. O meekly-noble yeaiomsy 
Which only in such holy bosoms rests : 
The all-securing Bar which warily 
Th' approach of heart-disturbing foes resisu : 

Sin's usher Pride, finds no aooess to thee. 

So low ly'st thou, so high struts bnriy He. 



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125 



Wbeo Gabriel observ'd her doubtful Look, 
Where Fairness and Blushes mutually 
Their timorous and graceful stations took ; 
Mary, thy anxious Lowliness, said he, 
May spare these pains : no Danger dares draw m 
Her whom the Frince of Power holds so dear. 

72. 
The Severeigm Lord of Lave hath seal'd on thee 
His amorous heart : his most selected Graces ; 
The Flower of all his sweets ; th* Immensity 
Of his best £avors. signally he places 

On thee alone, whom he exalts as high 

As thou art sunk in thy Humility. 

73- 
Witness this Message I have now to tell. 
Too glorious I grant, for me to bring ; 
The only Message which could parallel 
The boundless Love of heav'n's inamor'd King : 

A Message which the World hath long expected. 

But fit to Thu alone to be directed. 

74- 
Behold thy privileged womb shall fertile be. 
And breed all Ages* Hopes, that blessM Child 
Who at the season of Maturity, 
Shall this dim World with Grace's lustre gild : 
Nor need'st thou study to contrive the frame 
Of his due Title ; JESUS is the Name. 

75. 

A Name more fit for thy all-conquering Son 

Than e'r it was for Nun's triumphant Heir : 

More noble shall be that SahfoHon 

By which his Israel He will repair. 
Than that which from Beenheba unto Dan 
Gave them no more but earthly Canaan. 

76. 
Great shall He be ; as great as Might and Worth 
Can swell an Hero's; or as stoutest Fame 
Can at her widest Trumpet's mouth bring forth, 
Which shall be stretch'd with his magnific Name : 
A AToiM^ ^ (Tmu^^; for his Stile must run 
Of him mha is mast High the equal Son. 

77. 

The Sovereign Lord of Crowns and only King 

Of Scoters, shall establish him upon 

His Seat from whose high Unage he shall spring. 

His most renownM Father Davids s throne : 
Where he a Prince of nobler Peace shall sit 
Than Solomon with all his Wealth and Wit 

78^ 
AH Jaeol^s Seed to him shall homage do. 
And wear the yoke of his more Gentle Law : 



Yea Time itself shall be his Subject too, 
And make his Stthe before his Scepter bow ; 

For Earth shall sink, and Heav'n shall melt, but He 

Shall reach his Kingdom to Eternity. 

79. 
And here the Angel paus'd : But trembling She 
Vail'd in the scarlat of her modest cheek, 
Reply'd, Bright Sir, it seems you know not Me, 
A worthless Maid, who for your high mistake 
Wear no pretence : nor may so great a King 
Fkom such a wretched worm's vile bowels spring. 

80. 

It is enough, and how much more than I 

Could e'r deserve from his unwearied love. 

That all this while he hath sustain^ my 

Rebellious life, and mercifully strove 
With my Demerits I O bid me not aspire 
To what transcends my reach and my desire. 

81. 
Yet though my vileness be sufficient to 
Excuse me from such glorious Exaltation ; 
Be pleas'd to know I am that Mary who 
Stand yet unmovM in my Virgin station ; 
Nor ever yet has this my body's bed 
Been till'd, or sown by any human seed. 

82. 

Perhaps my Looks, in thy unspotted eyes 

So little breathe of true Virginity, 

As to encourage thee to this surmise : 

But whatsoever my deportment be. 
Forgive my outside unintended sin. 
For I am still untouch'd and pure within. 

83. 

Tb true to Joseph I betroth^ am, 
Since, he disdain^ not unworthy me : 
Yet Joseph weareth but a Spouse's name. 
In preface to what may hereafter be : 

And be assur'd. this is my present case. 

I know my Husband yet but by his face. 

84. 

How then, O how shall thy great Promise, which 

Seems too resolVd to wait upon Delay, 

Break thus through Nature's sturdy Laws, and hatch 

Its Project's Introduction to day I 
I know no Man, and therefore know not how 
I can both Virgin be, and pregnant grow. 

85. 

Miraculous Meekness I how would meanest Hearu 
Have leap'd to catch this matchless Dignity 
F^m which this most deserving yirgin starts 1 
O how would'st Thou have triumph'd at so high 
An OflRer, had Agenor's cunning thought 
Of sodi a Message as this Angel brought ! 



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86. 

Her answer higher forc'd his Admiration, 
And op'd the door to this sublime Reply : 
Pairtst of swats, there needs no dispuUtlon 
About the question ; for the Mystery 
Determin'd is above, by Him who can 
M^tbout all human help produce a Man. 

87. 

Nor must thy mighty Metkntss hope to ^hrowd 

Thee finom the reach of Glory : for thy worth 

By being vailed in that modest cloud. 

More ameaUe lustre streameth forth ; 
And 'cause thou ffiest Honor, therefore she 
From Heav'n to Earth is come to hunt out Thee. 



Nor is there any scaping by thy flight 

Into thy Tixgin Incapacity : 

For that *s the only Scene which suits aright 

With what thy God now means to act in thee. 
He acts ; and therefore now his Creature can 
No loDger plead. Sht knowtih not a Man, 

«9. 

Through mounts of Miredes he breaks a way 
To keep thee still as pure as thy Desire: 
When all things m their first Confusion lay. 
And grovell'd in a shapeless Mass of Mire, 
Who would have thought the womb of that Afyss 
Could have produc'd so fidr a World as this? 

But then th' Almighty Spirit spred his wing 
Upon those hopeless tumults of the De^ : 
Whose generative Warmth knew how to bring 
Those seeds to light which in that Night did sleep. 

Thus came this populous Universe to be 

Bred in the bowels of Virginity, 

This Hofy S/irit over thee shall hover. 
And with prolific virtue thee endow : 
His Skadis substantial vigor thee shall cover \ 
A vigor which disdaineth to allow 

Weak Natnre leave, or possibility 

To contradict a Virgis^-fregnamty, 

And for this n6ble Canse (though not alone 
For this) He who shall thy great C)fi'-«priii|g be. 
Must wear the Sovereign Title of Tho Son 
0/God; for genuine Divinity 

Shall be engag'd, bat In a mistick fiuMon, 

In all the bus'ness of his Qenentioa. 

93- 
Doubt not his Power , whose granted Hmits spmd 
WkteashisboondlesBWIU: all /jnu/ knows 



How Sarah*s dead womb Uveth now In Seed 
Which past the shores of Numeration flows : 
How Aaron's Rod its sudden Almonds ought 
Neither to Soil, nor Seed, nor Sap, nor RooL 

94. 

And for more near assurance, know that She 

With snowy head oonfest her Spring was past. 

Thy Cousen both in blood and piety. 

Cold dry BUsabeth, hath now at last 
Conceiv'd a Son ; an argument to thee 
How Natnre can by Heav'n corrected be. 

95. 
The World had stamp*d the name of Barren on 
Her seaM Womb, whose way was dam'd to Hope 
Of any Seed ; yet five full months are gone, 
And now the sizt succeeds, shice Heaifn brake ope 
That frosen seal : good cause have I to know 
The time, who was employ^ then, as now. 

96. 

I bare the wonderous News to Zackary; 

And when his trembling Jealous Soul would not 

Oedit my supernatural Embassy, 

I on Us tongue a lode of silence put. 
That he might know God could as easily ope 
His Spouse's womb, as I his mouth could stop. 

97. 
His silenoe bids thee trust these Words of mine : 
And since both Heav'n and Earth's best Hopes attend 
With panting expectation for thine 
Assenting word ; for their sakes condescend 
To be advanc'd, and for thy Maker's who 
By me his bett-Movid Spouse doth wooe. 

98. 
He waited e'r since Tim^s first bhth for thee. 
And has endur'd a world of sin below, 
Stretching his strongly^patient Constancy 
Through every Age (tf Wickedness till now. 

That Time at length might bring forth blessdd Tkee 

The sweet Reward of all his Lenity. 

99^ 

And now thy mighty Hoar is eome ; O why 
Mak'st thou the gentlest Virtue prove so hard? 
Why by thy rigorous Humility 
Must entring Joy and Hafpiness be barred 
Beck firom the longing Wdridt O why wilt thou 
Not let the Goldm Age have leave to grow I 

loa 
Why must the gloomy SMadom which have now 
Weighed thdr heavy Wings, in hopes to fly, 
Return their Night upon Religion's brow, 
Whldi 'gan to dearjnp at the dawn of thy 
FatMipnIng Birth : and vooldst thou now gife way 
WoaM stiBil break open Into GnMfs Dogf. 



rjra 



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lOI. 

Speak, most IwcomfarabU^ speak ; and let 

The fniTkl Universt deliver'd be 

Fhm pangs, by hearing Thee accept thy great 

ft ciog ativ e of Virgin-frtgmaMey, 
TUa said the Angtl dos'd his lips ; but by 
His pleading Looks stiU press'd his Embassy. 

t02. 

As when the Moisture, which was well content 

To dwell below and nestle in the earth. 

Is wooed by the Son's strong blandishment 

To take an higher home ; it issues forth 
\^th gentle resignation, and complies 
In mere submission to possess the skies : 

103. 
So now the lowly Virgin oonqaer'd by 
The potent pleasures of her heay'nly Spouse, 
Exceeds her old by new HMmiliiyt 
And with herself her fonner meekness throws 
Before his feet, thenceforth to be whate'r 
His most victorious Love would nuike of her. 

104. 
Btkoid, said she, the Handmaid o/tkt Lord; 
(For he hath giv'n me leave to use that stile ;) 
Since Beaton will have it so, may thy great Word 
My worthless bowels with Performance fill. 

To my deer Maker I myself resign ; 

'Tisjit his Pleasure, and noi mine, be mine. 

105. 

This noble word no sooner breathed she. 

But to the top of joyful heav*n it flew ; 

Where in the wingid Quire's high melody 

It found its echo, and was made a new 
And predons Anthem ; for the spheres that day 
Measur'd their dances by this only lay. 

106. 

All Naiure heard the sound, which in her ear 

Spake life and joy and restauration. 

O bkssM Musick, which so chearM her 

That into Smiles her ag6d wrinkles ran : 
FVesh fire she glonring fell in every vein, 
And briskly ttMMght of .growiog youqg again. 

107. 

For now that S^rii irilicb first qukikned her 

Retum'd, and took his seat in Maay*s breast. 

O what Excess of sweets and pleasures bare 

Him company into his virgin nest ! 
O what pure streams of light, lAax glorious showers 
Of most prolific and enlivening Powers ? 

108. 
With these flew down Btemity's great Son 
To be a Son efTime: and parting from 



His Pathtr^s bosom, Gk>ry's sweetest throne. 
Chose Ashes for his house, Dust for his home : 
Teaching Sublimity s own Crest to bow. 
And making of Most High himself Most Low, 

109. 
In vain should I, or all heav'n's Cherubs reach 
To compass that impossible Eloquence 
Which might a parallel description stretch 
For that immense mysterious Confluence 
Of purest joys with which in this embrace 
The most enobled Virgin ravish'd was. 

1 10. 

Only her spacious Soul, the blessdd Sea 
Where all those floods of precious Secrets met. 
Knew what it comprehended : Glorious She 
ReUsh'd the life of every sacred Sweet, 

And did in one miraculous instant try 

The various Dainties ol Divinity, 

III. 

For though his Generation's work had been 

The deepest project of Eternity, 

Yet were its wonders all transacted in 

Duration's most concise Epitomy : 
One single Moments head was crown'd with this 
Exploit of most unbotmded Power and Bliss. 

112. 
O mighty Moment f at whose feet all Days 
All Months, all years, all Ages homage tender : 
To whom {Jl-conquering Time yields up his bays. 
And vast Eternity would fain surrender 
His widest Glories, conscious that he 
Is deep in debt to most renown^ thee. 

113. 

To thee, who this huge universe do'st ty 

Qose to his greater Maker: Thee who join'st 

These mortal things to immortality, 

And in one knot both Heav'n and Earth combin'st : 
Who ^y'&. fertility a new found Home, 
And bid'st it flourish in a THigin's-womb. 

114. 
For Mary now the mansion-house became 
Of her conceived God, who deign'd to take 
His pattern firom her reverent body's frame. 
And borrow part of holy Her to make 
A Garment for himself, that he might be 
As true and genuine Flesh and Blood as She. 

115. 
O Paradise how poor a soil art thou, 
To this rare Richness of the Virgin* s-bed I 
Lift Tree, which in thy heart so stately grew 
Itself but as the shade of this was spred : 
Here is the Garden where the noble Tree 
Of evorlasHng Lift would planted be. 



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Il6. 
Mtiah all ye HeaVns above ; the Virgin* s womb 
Hath left no looks but those of shame, for you : 
All Glorits here have chose their dearer Home, 
And £airer shine because they make no show : 
Here dwells a Sun, whose count'nance is the book 
In which your daxel'd Phibus dares not look. 

117. 
The most resplendent equal Character, 
The flaming Brightness of the Father's face. 
Hath condescended to exchange his sphere 
And to this lesser Heav'n transplant his Rays : 
Which yet he hath so sweetned and allay'd 
That he consumeth not the tender Maid, 

118. 

Thus when to Moses he came down of old 

ArrayM all in fire and took his seat 

Upon a simple Bush ; his flaming Gold 

In mercy to the shrub, rain'd in it's heat, 
And all the leaves with harmless brightness fill'd, 
Which he was pleas^ not to Bum but Gild. 

119. 

When this blest Sight had feasted GabrieFs eye ; 

In prostrate loyalty he first ador'd 

The secretly inshrinM Majesty 

Of his etemal-nem-^onceivid Lord: 
Whose leave could he obtain, in that mean Cell 
He would preferment count it still to dwell. 

120. 
Then in the guise of courteous reverence, 
(Where plain confession glimmered, how he 
Was loth to part, yea though to Heav'n from hence,) 
He farewel bids the Queen 0/ Modesty: 
Yet bears her stiU in 's breast, though not in 's eyes. 
And so to his etherial Home he flies. 
• 

121. 

Whether as he mounts, his News in every sphere 
He to th' inquisitive Spiriu poureth forth. 
And delicately feasts their hungry ear 
With those rare wonders he had seen on earth : 
Till with applause from every Angets tongue 
The precious Name of humble Mary rung. 

123. 

Thus Phylax spake : when Psyche swelVd with joy 

And admiration, cry'd, why may not I 

My wandering vessel fix in this dear Bay? 

Where can I safelier live, or sweetlier die? 
Humiliti£s own Palace best will fit 
Me who through Pridt stand most in need of it, 

123. 
Nay then thou by my conduct strait shall see, 
Phylax reply'd, a fairer House than this ; 



Fairer in more transcendent Poverty, 

And nobler for in higher Lowlyness. 
With that into the Chariot again 
He takes her up, and gently moves the rein. 

124- 
The ready steeds no more monition needed. 
For through the air they snatch'd their greedy way. 
And o'r the Galilean r^ons speeded ; 
No hUls were high enough to bid them stay ; 
No winds so fleet as to outrun their place 
Until the Coach to Bethlehem whirled was. 

125. 

There lighting down ; Behold this Town my dear 

The Guardian cry'd, 'when/dme once lov'd to grow ; 

Jesses illustrious Son was nurtur'd here ; 

Here reverend Samuel prepar'd his brow 
For royal Honor, when upon his head 
The Crown's rich earnest, holy Oile, he shed. 

126. 

This chosen Root in Kings was fertile, whose 
Successive hands through many ages bore 
The Jewish scepter ; till, with other foes 
Sin, stronger than the rest, combining tore 
The Diademe at first to Badel from 
Its guilty owner's head, and next to Rome. 

127. 
Rome wears it still, and makes this wretchM land 
Pay that sad debt its wickedness contracted : 
How oft has an imperious Command 
Heavy blood-squeesing imposts here exacted I 
And drownM these inslavM fields, which all 
With Milk and Honey flow'd before, in Gall t 

I2& 

(Such miserable gains fond vnlfiil Men 

Condemn^ are to reap, who needs will be 

Driving the self-destroying Trade of Sin : 

To such heart-galling bonds of tyranny 
All frantic Nations made desperate haste 
When from their necks Heav'n's gentle yoke they cast. ) 

129. 

This golden Trick Augustus leamM, and 

Summon'd the People to a general Tax : 

The Warrants strait awakening all the Land, 

Each one to pay in his assessment packs 
Amain to his paternal City, where 
Of Tribes and Kindreds lay the Register. 

130. 
Obedience therefore hither Joseph drew : 
And pious She who by Prophetick Writ 
Full well the world's Redeemer's birth place knew. 
Hugg'd this occasion to arrive at it ; 

Rejoycing that great Cesar's act should be 

Inservient to Heav'n's greater Mystery. 



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129 



131. 
Yet proy'd it both to Husband and to Spouse 
A tedious journy ; for the way was long. 
Bat short the days : in Winter's inmost House 
(Cokd churlish Cafricom) the Sun had dnog 
The Morning and the Ev'n so close together 
That there was left no room for cheerly Weather. 

132. 
The holy TravtlUrs through Cold and FVost 
And northern Blasts, took their unworthy way ; 
(What pious Heart would not have been at cost 
Of sighs' kind Warmth that sharp breath to allay 1) 

And slow they went ; for Marys time was come. 

And God lay heavy in her tender womb. 

133- 

Alas, she to her Ttavd travellM. 

And brought at length her weariness to town : 

In which the court'sy of an hirM bed 

To lay her weather-beaten body down 
She hop'd to find ; but barbarous Voter's blast 
Had Men, as weU as Earth, seal'd up in Frost. 

134. 
The Men were Ice ; so were their doors ; for both 
Hard frosen stood against poor-looking Guests : 
Wbere'r they knock'd the surly Host was wroth, 
Crying, My houst isfulL Indeed those nests 
Were only courteous Ttaps, which barrM out 
AH Birds but such as store of feathers brought. 

135- 
AU Inns by SWuu and by PurfU Things 
Were taken up : each Gallant, room must have 
For his swell'd self, and room for those he brings 
To swell him higher ; room for all his brave 
And burly nothing, his food state and port 
Which in a chamber must alone keep court. 

136. 

Thus was the Univtnis King shut out 
Of his own World as He was entring in : 
Long had the Pilgrim's noble Patience sought 
And yet could at no door admission win : 
And now night crowded on apaoe, and drew 
Their curtains who as yet no Lodging knew. 

137. 
Amongst less beastly Beasts, this made them call 
For pity, seeing none was left with Men : 
Observe that Rock, which all along the wall 
Lifts up its head to meet the ilsbg Sun ; 
See'st thou the cnggy mouth it opens? that 
Was then the hospitable Stablis gate. 

138. 
Come near and mark it weD, this Cavern was 
The homdy lodging of an honest Ox, 

46 



Whose chamberfellow was a shnple Asse : 
Nor house nor dwellers needed any locks 

Or bar, or Host, against th* approach of poor 

Unlikely Wights to fortify the door. 

139. 

For ^om did Portutu's hate e'r pltuge so low 

As not to be above desiring free 

Quarter with beasts ? but since these Saints are now 

Much lower sunk than lowest Poverty ; 
In noble love of this strange sUte, with meek 
Content a correspondent Inn they seek. 

14a 

Calamity besiegeth those in vain 
With straits and wants, who always ready are 
With conquering submission, to sustain 
The brunt of heaviest Misfortune's war. 

Ntcessiiy, is no such thing to those 

Who what they cannot help know how to choose. 

141. 
The blessM TravelUrs soon saw that this 
Hard Rock less stony was than all the Town ; 
And that plain Brutes were ready to express 
Far more humanity than they whose own 
Nature ingag'd them to be Men, and kind 
To those at least in whom themselves they find. 

142. 
In therefore here with freedom entring, from 
The Beasts, whose hearts no avarice had fear'd. 
They borrow'd both a portion of their room. 
And of their Straw ; and there their bed prepar'd : 
Where to a Temple having tum'd the Cave^ 
Themselves to rest they after vespers gave. 

143. 
But though sleep sealed up the Vifgin*s eye, 
Yet watchful was her heart, and tmvel'd still ; 
It travel'd through a Vision's Mjfiberj, 
A way where she no lassitude could fed. 
Her Womb seem'd all on fire, whence stream^ out 
A Flash of Lightning, and whirld round about. 

144. 

Round Earth's vast Ball it whirld, and in its way 
Devour'd all things compos'd of useless Dross, 
Of idle Stubble, or of fainting Hay : 
The silver Creatures bare some little loss ; 

But those of genuine gold grew only more 

Illustrious and youthful than before. 

145. 

The World refiuM by this searching Flame, 

In every part right radiant grew and bmve ; 

No Blemish, or capacity of Blame 

Pteep'd out from east to west : all Creatures gave 
A fair account of their own sdves, and by 
Their perfect beauty satisfy'd HeaVn's eye. 

R 



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CANTO VII. 



146. 
Whilst on this splendid Refonnation She 
Her wonder pours ; dame Naiurt*s vigilant Clock 
Discovering Midnight, rous'd her Piety 
To its accustom'd Task : the earliest Cock 

Had rarely crow'd e'r she began to pny ; 

But here you know She iaint and tirM lay. 

147. 
Yet rose she to bring forth her Vows : but now 
A greater Birth was ripe, the wide-spread Night 
And Powers o/Darkmtss freely rsngdd through 
The sleeping World, and laugh'd at buried Light; 
Little suspecting that an Highnoon-Day 
Flrom Midnights bosom could erect its ray. 

I4«. 

When to the Virgin bare her wonderous Son, 
Who by the glories of his own sweet fiaoe. 
Commands the dusky Shaddows to be gone 
And to his conquering Splendor yield their place. 

Her friends about her. sovereign Pleasures were ; 

And Joy the Midwife which assisted her. 

149. 

No faintings chUl'd her heart, no Paogs durst tear 
Her privileged bowels, nor no Cry her throat : 
Those sad Revenues all entailed were 
Upon polluted Beds : She whom no Btot 

Of sinful Pleasure could pretend to stain, 

Advanced was beyond the shot of Pain. 

150. 
No Ctrcumstanoe of shame or filth could blur 
The noble Birth : the shame was theirs atone 
Whose shameless thoughts deflour'd most spotless Her 
Th' acoomplish'd Queen of Purity ; and none 
But theirs the filth, whose Slovenish foiging brains 
Rais'd here a Fount to wash the Infants stains. 

151. 

Her dear Virginity persever'd the same 

Unbroken Jewel that it vras before. 

As God into her reverend boweb came, 

Vet ask'd no lock's leave, nor op'd any door ; 
So he return^ thence, resolv'd that she 
ShouM still a Virgin, though a Mother, be. 

The pregnant Soul thus travelling with Thought, 
No pangs, or strains, or ruptures feels, but by 
Ease's own hand deliver'd is ; and out 
Her Oflf-spring comes all clad in Purity. 

Her glorious Flame the Fire thus bringing forth, 

As clear continues as before that birth. 

153. 

Thus when heav'n's Beams through spotless windows 

PMS, 

The Colours painted there, they borrow ,* yet 



They neither rob, nor break, nor blur the Glass, 
But with more precious Luster garnish it. 
Their Mother Flowers thus are Virgins still. 
Though they the air with broods of Odours fill. 

154. 
Thus though great Phekus every morning springs 
From fisir Auroras lap, yet she as true 
A Maid remaineth, as those smiling Things, 
Those rosal Blushes which her portal strew : 
Heav'n being pleased to contrive this way 
To make her Virgin-mother of the Day, ' 

'55- 

But O Aurora's Day is Night to this 
Which in the Night from Mary took its rise, 
To this, the Day of Life, of Love, of BUss ; 
The Day of Jewels and of Rarities ; 
The conquering Day whose mighty Glories ne'r 
Shall any Ev'n's obscuring powers fear. 

156. 

The Day which made Immensity become 

A Little one; which printed goodly May 

On pale December's fruse ; which drew the Sum 

Of Paradise into a Bud; the Day 
Which shrunk Eternity into a Span 
Of Time, Heav'n into Earth, God faito Man. 

157. 

Heaven's twindding Lights shut up their dasel'd eyes. 

And paid their blind devotton to the Dawn 

Of Jacob's Star: the Moon in sacrifice 

Her toyal Silver to the Golden Crown 
Of Lusters ol6er*d, which about their new 
Though ancient Prince, their royal Circle drew. 

158. 
His softest feathers Winter thither sent 
To be a pillow for the Infants head ; 
For sure no hann the honest Season ment 
V^en in the Cave his fluttering Snow he spread : 

But at his presence into tears it fell, 

Check'd by a whiter chaster Spectacle, 

159. 

Tam'd Boreas, who saucy was before. 

With gentle manners learned to relent ; 

And whispering demurely at the door, 

Profest himself not only penitent, 
But studiously ambitious now to make. 
His Breath the praise of his youQg Master speak. 

i6a 
And lain wouM all th' illustrious Host of Heav'n, 
Whose wings were up, whose thoughts already flew, 
Have hither mardi'd, and to their Sovereign giv'n 
A volley of applause and thanks : but due 
To his dear Mother's bmve Devotion 
This Privilfege was, Jlnt to salute her Son. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



131 



161. 

She thefefore (having with exuberant joy 
Bebddthe H^<W4^ which her self had bred. 
And opening through exultant tears the way 
To her inflamM Spirit, tender^ 
Her self a prostrate Holocaust before 
His feet ; and taught the World what to adore ;) 

162. 
Oy'd, O my precious Som^ and more than mine, 
How shall thy worthless Moilur and thy Maid, 
With due attendance wait on thy divine 
Oradfe, without thine own almighty aid I 
How shall my Clod of earth Great Thee embrace 
For whom the widest heav'n too narrow was t 

163. 

What shall I do, wiio most distress^ am, 
And stiaitned by the vastness of my Bliss I 
Thou who wert not ashamM of my Shame, 
Who thy most abject vassal hast to this 
Sublimity advanc'd : O teach her heart 
And hands to act their ravishing Dudes' part. 

164. 
These words wak'd pious Joseph : who ^en he 
The newborn Wvnder spy'd, stay'd not to ask 
Whose was that brightly-blooming Majesty, 
But bows down to his necessary task. 
Those Beams of such convincing sweetness were 
As left no question but his Z^rti/ was there. 

165. 

With reverent adoration on the floor. 
The pious pattern of his heav'nly Spouse 
He bastes to copy, and his soul to pour 
Forth in ecstatlck thanks, and praise, and vows : 
Since at the radiant casement of those eyes 
God looking out, call'd for that sacrifice. 

166. 

Those Eyes, the Easts of gentle living Light ; 

The diamond quivers of divinest Love ; 

The weUs of ever-springing Joys ; the bright 

Blirrors of purer Claritudes than move 
About the silver heav'ns, when Night is fine. 
Or when in Cancer's height Day's glories shine. 

167. 

And as Dove's eyes thrice wash'd in milk, upon 

The neighbouring Rivers answering crystal play ; 

So on the Mother this immaculate Som ^ 

Divinely dally'd with his Aspect's ray : 
Thus deigning by his Turtle Eye to prove 
Himself conoeiv'd by heav'n's eternal Dove. 

168. 
His Skin, the throne of softest White and Red, 
Joy'd that delicious union to shew 

1 CemHc s xa. 



By which his Mother's Blush was married ^ 
To that most lovely Doves all-snowy hue. 

Ten thousand Ladies' pencils ne'r could teach 

A check so rich perfection to reach. 

169. 

His goodly Head was of refinM gold.* 

Being it self to its fair self a Crown. 

O that the fond bewitchM Worldlings would, 

Changing their avarice, prudently fiedl down 
And vrorship this diviner Metal which 
With surer wealth their coffers would inricfa. 

17a 
The Scene his Cheeks round gentle hillocks were,* 
Where ranks of Spices plaid their predous part. 
And such perfum^ floridness as ne'r 
Had marshall'd been by Nature or by Art. 
His Lips like Lilies, whensoe'r they op'd, 
Of odoriferous Myrrh thick blessings drop'd. 

171. 
As Beryls fiurly rang'd in golden rings,* 
So in his richer hands were Graces set 
As Ivory, which prides the thrones of Kings, 
When streaks of Saphir's luster garnish it. 

Such was his k)vely Belly ; only this 

Thrill'd through its beauty warmth and tenderness. 

172. 

As slender Pillars of white Marble which * 

On Sockets of fine gold erected are ; 

So his pure Legs were builded on his rich 

And graceftil feet : His Aspect mounted far 
Above the Excellence of Cedars, when 
They look from their majestick Lebanon. 

173. 

His Mouth the Gate of sweetness was ; and He * 

ArrayM round with nothing else but Love. 

In this miraculous Epitomy 

All choise Extremities of Glory strove 
Which should be most extreme, and in that foir 
Contention every one grew conquerer. 

174. 
For never yet was Beauty known to hold 
So full an empire as she here possest ; 
Not when in Absalom's aocomplish'd mould 
Her self and her ambition she drest ; 

Not when she reign'd with Fate-inamoring grace 

In infant Moses his commanding face. 

175. 

As Joseph with these wonders feasts his eye ; 

The reverent Mother of her Son's dear feet 

Tender'd a consecrated kiss ; and by 

That blessM taste enoourag'd to a sweet 
Audacity, adventur'd on to sip 
The roseal dainties of his heav'nly Lip. 



1 Vere, la 
« yen. IX. 



4 yer$. 14. 



• yen. 15. 

• Vers. x& 



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CANTO VII. 



176. 
O noble Kiss! which might a Seraph hbe 
His highest orb to leave, his mouth to wipe, 
In hopes to drink in more delicious Fire 
FVom this young Altar, than from all the ripe 

Flames of the Rmpyrtum ; fire which by 

No fttd 's fed but supple Bliss and Joy. 

177. 

O Kiss, which fetch'd the Motktr's springing heart 

Into her lip, and seal'd it on her Son / 

Who was his own as ready to impart 

In answer to her sweet Impression. 
O Kiss, the sacred Compliment between 
Heav'n's highest King and Earth's most lowly Qnun / 

178. 

This done ; her sealous and yet timorous hands 
Began thdr duty to the noble Child: 
Whom having gently lapp'd in swaddling bands. 
She to her Breast apply'd : whose bottles fill'd 
With milk, but more with genial Delight, 
To his first breakfast did their God invite. 

179. 
Which lovely Invitation gracious He 
Accepting, bonx>w'd what himself did give. 
Mean while deliciously-transported She 
Seemd in that breast he suck'd alone to live : 
For thither leap'd her soul, and scarce could stop 
It self from stuiting out with every drop. 

180. 
Then in the Cratch (since with no better bed 
This sorry house could gratify its guest,) 
Where careless Hay was for the coverings spread, 
She lay'd him down to take his hardy rest. 
Thus came the Ox to know his Owner, and 
The Asse his AfasUr's crib to understand. 

181. 
For both due distance kept, adoring Him 
Whose generous Goodness saves t>oth Man and Beast ; 
Him who till now alone had nourish'd them 
And spread in every field their copious Feast. 
Their Manger and their Hay they well can spare 
For his dear service whose own Gifts they were. 

182. 
As there He lay, the holy Mothef's breast 
Grew big again with noble Contemplation : 
Which as her tongue brought forth and sweetly drest 
In vocal graces, with neat imitation 
The Cave returns the accents of her voice. 
And in soft Echos duplicates the noise. 

183. 

Almighty Babe, on whom till now, said she, 
Heav'n's Wardrobe waited with its purest flames. 



Whose Mantle was all-daseling Majesty, 

Whose Crown was wov'n of Glory's boundless beams ; 
What oondesoent of mighty Love is this 
Which of that twat^hi<»M Pomp can thee undress ! 

184. 
Could OouU and Rags have ever hop'd to be 
Exalted to this strange Prerogative 
That wretchM they should thus to nakM Thee 
The piteous alms of their poor shelter give ! 
Surely all simple Weeds shall precious seem 
Henceforth to me which are of kin to them. 

185. 

Let Silks and Gold go puff up Princes' pride 
Whose stains require the aid of beauteous vails : 
A homespun rayment will a body hide 
When friezing cold, or melting heat assails. 

Since Thou art thus content, O let not me 

E'r covet finer than my God to be. 

186. 
Thou art my God; this vesture's dusky dond 
No such eclipse can on thy Glory throw. 
But through its gloominess my faith can crow'd, 
And see to whom I adoration owe. 

Lo I adore thee, who art still Most High 

Though in this t>ottom of HuwUUiy. 

187. 
Fair was thy Throne when thou did'st mounted sit 
At his right hand whom Cehitude calls Father: 
When all the heav'ns were bow'd to be thy great 
Chair of majestick State ; when Earth did gather 
It self up close, and fix'd up stood to be 
A faithful footstool to thy Sire and Thu, 

188. 
When all the volumes of ImwunsUy 
Their utmost vastness gladly stretchM out 
To spread a correspondent canopy 
Over thy glorious head : When round about 
Omnipotence attended on thy port. 
And fill'd the circuit of thy mighty Court. 

>89. 

But now the Scene is chang'd ; this sorry Cell, 
This Mannorhouse of shame and soom, must be 
Thy native palace ; now thy throne must swell 
No ¥nder than this Cratch ; now poverty 

Lays for thy pillow Hay, poor fisided Hay. 

Which speaks what Weakness Thou assum'st to-day. 

190. 

Now all those flaming Hierarchies, whose tongue 

With HalUlujahs fiU'd thy royal ear. 

Are fur withdrawn ; and thou art left among 

None but these dull and silent Waiters here. 
This O* and Ass; the only servant thou 
The world's great King oould'st ready find below. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVERS MYSTERY. 



'33 



191. 

(Go great Retinues, gaady Pkdaces ; 

Go Beds of down, of gold, of ivory ; 

Go wait upon your dainty Prince's Ease, 

And help to countenance poor Majesty : 
Yet there lament your Pride's dishonor, since 
You are not own'd by Giorys <mfy Prince, 

192. 

But though, O nobly-privileg'd Poturty 

Enriched by this Mom's bright Miracle, 

Shalt my Delight, my Pomp, my Kingdom be : 

Thy Rags shall all Embroideries excel. 
Thy Cottages all marble Towers outshine. 
Thy Hardship pleasant be, thy shame divine. 

193. 

Thy proper Region 's this ; and may'st thou be 

My sole estate and dowry here below : 

O *ti8 sufficient if hereafter We 

By heav'n's lair store, above may wealthy grow. 
That, that 's the only Reahn of Wealth, and there 
Alone would I be rich where riches are.) 

194. 
And yet, dread Infant, give my Wonder leave 
To gase upon a greater Change than this : 
FVom thy Almighty Sire didst thou receive 
Thy equal Self, and sweetly rest in His 

Bright bosom where unbounded Pleasures swim, 

Injoying his Etenity with Him. 

195. 
But now art Thou a Son of Time become. 
And of poor Me, a shorter thing than Time : 
That Bosom thou exchang'dst for my vile womb, 
Light's largest heav'n for this dark narrow dime ; 
Of loose Mortality to catch fiut hold. 
And up in Dust thy gallant Godhead mould. 

196. 

All my astonish'd thoughts are swallow'd quite 

In this Abyss of thy Humility. 

O vast Abyss t as deep as ever Height 

It self was high : I yield, I yield to be 
In this miraculous Sea of Goodness drown'd. 
Which only Thou the God of it, canst sound. 

197. 
But O how far thine Handmaid is beneath 
That noble Accusation Gahriel laid 
Deep to my charge I thy Condescension hath 
Monopolis'd Meehness, and the world airay'd 
In Pride's vnasr helpless shame ; since though it seek 
More low than Dust to stoop, yet 'tis not medt. 

198. 

Though ev'n the Thonght of Pride *s my soul's chief 



I am not kumbk; no, nor can be so. 



This very sight of thy unworthy state 
Confutes and checks my very Essence, who 
By being but my setfam too too high. 
Now Thou my Sovereign Lord thus low dost lie. 

199. 

Whilst her most pious soul dissolve ran 

Out at her lips by this ecstatick Heat ; 

A flock of Shepherds with an heavenly Tone 

Fresh on their echoing tongues in triumph at 
The Cave arriv'd, which to their wonder yields 
A fiiirer Sight then their late glorious fields. 

20a 

In yoseph they beheld the best of Men ; 

The flower of Females they in Mary saw ; 

The sweetness of all Infants in her Son, 

And how much more than so I their sacred Vow 
This spectacle determined, and they 
Before the Cratch their duty baste to pay. 

201. 

For with a prostrate soul and bended knee 
Each one upon that simple Altar laies 
His tender Lamb : which Oifrings smfl'd to see 
So fair a proof of their own gentle praise. 

Beholding in the royal Babe how nigh 

They were of kin to his meek Majesty. 

202. 
And then, O mi^Uy UttU One, said they. 
Deign thy acceptance of these rural things, 
The cream of our poor Flocks : which whilst they stray 
About the plains, may thy Protection's wings 
Shield them and us ; who for our Deity 
No other Pan will own but gracious Thee. 

203. 

Whene'r the hasty Wolf, the hideous Bear 

Or raging Lion challengeth his prey, 

Let thy Defence's sheltring might appear 

Th' injustice of their Challenge to gainsay. 
Alas our Crooks are feeble things, and We 
As weak as they, build all our trust on Thee, 

204. 
When Heat or Cold, when Wet or Drought, transgress 
Their proper seasons, O do thou correct 
Their dangerous encroachments ; and repress 
Those envious Stars which would on us inflict 
Malignant influence : so shall heav'n and earth 
See thy bright Power, for all thy ckwded Birth. 

205. 
The deep-observiqg Mother yxf A to hear 
Their humble Orison : And what, said she. 
My honest Friends, has call'd you fipom your Care 
Thus to attend on this new Piety? 
To Night and Daogers what has made yoa leave 
Your other Lambs ; and these what bids yoo give? 



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CANTO VII. 



206. 

Fair Qtum of Grace and Biiss, the Men reply'd, 
Tlirioe bowing down before her reverend feet, 
No Fean nor Dangers can our Flocks betide 
Whilst we are oome oar newborn King to greet 
Hiov'n sent ns hither ; and we need not fear 
But Htmfn is able to snpply our Care. 

«o7. 

Whilst we our watch amidst the champain kep'd. 

Befriended by the Moon and Stars, that no 

PerU might awake our tender Fkxk, which slep'd 

In helpless careless innocency : k> 
There nisfa'd from heav'n a sudden mighty light 
Which from the wide Field chas*d abas6d Night 

208. 

The frighted Moon and Stars fled all away ; 

^^th unexpected Gold the sky was drest : 

We never yet beheld the entring Day 

With SQdi commanding beams break from the East. 
Twas Ghrj^s Morning this ; and in our eyei 
No Stm, but Majtsty now seem'd to rise. 

209. 
With ikat, and with AmaMtmnU blinded, we 
Fdl down, supposing Heav'n had done so too ; 
And that the BiauHts of Sublimity 
Came post on some grand business hear below. 
And now we see what drew them down : thy Som 
May well allure Heav'n after him to run. 

210. 
But as dark BaU. and wretched Birds of night. 
Surprised by a stoutly-flashing Flame, 
Are damp'd with horror at the glorious sight 
Which seals their eyes and open throws their shame. 
So we by this strange Apparition lay 
BesicgM both with Luster and dismay. 

2II» 
We thus the prise of Drtad: a radiant friend 
Who gently hover'd in the neighbour air 
Upon our fainting hearu fresh comfort fim'd 
With his kind wings ; and cry'd. No night of fear 
Is this, look up and view this Scene of Joy, 
Adocn'd in HeaVn's most festival anay. 

212. 

We op'd our eyes, and wondifngly bebdd 

How SwUUs and Pleasures had bedeckt the pboe ; 

Which seem'd no more a country common field 

Bat Paradisi's own delicious frice : 
And sudi we should have thought it still, had we 
Not hither oome, and seen thy Som, and Tkm, 

213. 

Bat yet a BtoaiHtsr not to yours -we read. 
Well near as heav'nly and as miklly grave ; 



That Angtfs who bestowM on our Dread 
That courteous Item : his attire uras brave ; 

His Looks, Delight's pure glass; most sweet his 
tongue. 

Ftxmi which these blessed words of solace rang : 

214. 
BdkM I bring you news otpetxajoy 
Than kindest Heav'n to earth did ever send ; 
Joy which through every heart shall melt its way. 
And with the Sun iu equal course extend : 

Joy whidi must know no limits, but through all 

The worid display its gallant FestivaL 

215. 
For to unwitting blessM you, this mom 
In royal David's City. Christ, the Lord 
Of him. and you, and all this world is bom : 
A mighty King, and able to afford 

The often-promis'd long-desir'd Saivaiiom 

To his deciepit languishing Creation. 

216. 
Stagger not at the News ; but let this sign 
Stablish your Faith and banish needless doabu : 
You shall at Boikltkom find this most divine 
Infant inwrap'd in simple swadJing clouts ; 
And in a plain and answerable bed 
The Asse's Manger, laid, to rest his head. 

217. 

As we for joy at these strange Tidings started. 

Bdiold, a sudden Globe of pliant Light 

Into a stranger Apparition parted. 

And with new Mervdls entertain'd our sight : 
For at a diamond Table fidr and wide 
A numerous Quire of Angols we descry'd. 

21a. 
Soul-charming Melody amidst them sat ; 
At her left hand Applause: Bliss at her right ; 
Before her frice triumphant Honor; at 
Her foot luxuriant but pure Delight. 

The Spectacle alone was ravishing ; 

But O what Raptures when they 'gan to sing I 

219. 
Glory to God in allsubUmity, 
Peace npon Earth, and to Mankind good will : 
This was their Ditty ; but their lofty Key 
Not only pass'd our mortal reaches' sldfl. 
But surely poss'd the Spheres, tho' these (they say) 
In sovereign Musick spend both Night and Day. 

22a 
How gtaully fen oar diarmM Lambs to danoel 
What troops of meny Wolves came tripping thither ! 
Lions and Bean seis'd with a gentle tnanoe. 
Met fai a friendly galUard together. 

AU salvageness was quickly chaim'd asleep. 

And every Beast becamea gentle She^ 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVERS MYSTERY. 



135 



221. 
The jolly Birds flock'd in ; and though they saw 
A fieurer-wiog'd and sweeter-throated Quire, 
Yet felt they in their breasts such pleasure glow 
That they oould not suppress their cheerly fire ; 
But mnster'd up their sweetest powers, to pay 
Their best applause to that Angelick lay. 

222. 

The Stones look'd up and seem'd to wish for feet ; 

The Trees were angry that they stuck so fast ; 

All things desfa-'d the Harmony to meet. 

And their sweet Passion prettily ezprest : 
Our silly oaten pipes this made us break. 
And our exultant pans with Natun take. 

223. 
And though our feet more nimbly never flew 
Than in their answer to this Music's Pleasure, 
Doing their best endeavour to trip true 
To every turn, and point, and air, and measure ; 
Yet leaping in our joious bosoms we 
Felt our brisk hearts with more Activity. 

224* 

The AnHUm finish'd ^us ; that glorious Fire 

About the Company its volumes spread, 

And homeward convoy'd th' Illustrious Quire. 

We saw how wide a gate heaVn openM 
To let them in ; we saw it shut, and yield 
Bade to the Stars their free etherial field. 

225. 

Thence came we hither, and the Promise found 

As tme and noble as our esqpectation : 

Whidi from this Cave must by our tongues rdx>und 

To every ear we meet ; that this Narration 
May ease our hearts, least by the mighty wonder 
Of this beav'n-€rown6d Mom they split hi sunder. 

226. 
But when the Year's fresh youth returns to deck , 
The bed of April hi her vernal hue ; 
Its earliest sweets and beauties we wOl pick. 
And wreath a chaplet for the frdrer brow 

Of this our blooming Lord: till when we place 

Our hopes of safety in his only Grace. 

227. 
Whkdi said, three adorations to her Son 
They made, and then of blessM Mary took 
Thdr humble leave : who having printed in 
Her mindful bosom's ready trusty book 
The News, the Quire, the Song, the glorious light. 
She duly read the lesson mom and night 

228. 
And deep she diVd into the reason why 
That glistering Host kept distance from the Otve, 



And to these Creatures of Humility, 
These simple honest Swains, the honor gave 
Of Visiting meek Him the first, who came 
To be at once a Sk^ktrd and a Lamb, 

229. 

But when the Sun seven times hunself had shown 

To aU the World, and bid it idoUse 

His £sce no more ; but fiUl before its own 

Almighty rising Ph^us^ at whose eyes 
His flames were kindled ; Janus op'd the door. 
And in her arms Aurora Ntw-year bore. 

230. 

And Circumcision's sacred Day was this ; 

Nor would the royal Infant spar6d be, 

But took this hard and bloody yoke on his 

Most tender neck ; that exemplary He 
Who was through all Obedience to run, 
His Race of Patience might betimes begin. 

231. 

There lay He on his yearning Afotker^s knee 

On that sweet Altar his first Blood to offer : 

And tell me Psyche, whither He or She 

By this Indsion more pain did suffer ; 
For that strange wound was deeply gravM in 
Her soul, which only raz'd his body's skin. 

232. 
Yet wise and pious as she was, she knew 
The wound would deeper prove should she forbear 
In love's mild disobedience to unbrue 
Her hand in what her heart esteem'd so dear 
Her Son*s pure blood : since no way could be found 
To keep his Law whole, but kimsd/Xo wound. 

233. 
Down fell the purple predous Dew, and gave 
The World sure earnest of what stay'd behind : 
For 'twas resolv'd the World at length should have 
The utmost drop his deepest vdn could find. 
Mean while these few suffic'd to write the bonds 
By whtefa He for the rest ingagdd stands. 

234. 
O liquid jewels ! happily have you 
Besprinkled all ibn/orekiad of the jvar/ 
The year, which now on his bedecked brow 
Hath leave more beauties than heav'n's face to wear : 
The year, which sealed is by you, to be 
From mischief's heavy Impositions fne, 

235. 
Thus when the paschal Lamb's less worthy Blood 
Th' Egyptian doors of Israets Son bedew'd. 
Peace and Security ifx Porters stood. 
That no Distruction thither might intrade. 
Had but this blush on Pkaroks gates been seen, 
Safety and health, and gnux had dwdt within. 



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CANTO VII. 



236. 
Now Jammarft CaUmds washM be 
By these dear Drops &xMn all that guiltj gore 
Whicfa Heath'nish mott unholy Sanctity 
Us'd on their face in lavish floods to poor. 
Pair shines the Day. thus rescu'd and rdeast 
FVom Pttgan Stains to Pitty'tpmnfuui, 

237. 
And now was printed on the Child that iVosM 
Which tip'd and glorify'd bright GubrUfi tongue : 
That Nairn whence Blisse's clearest torrenu stream. 
That Namt which sweetens every CtUruh's waog ; 
That Namg of bowels, of almighty Love, 
Of all the joys which make heav'n be above. 

258. 
JESUS I O what vast Treasures couchM lie 
Within the bosom of this UtUe Wordf 
A Word which spreads its potent Majesty 
Through heav'n and earth and hell ; all which are stirr'd 
With reverent awe whene'r it sounds, and on 
Their bended knees adore the Virgin's Sm» 

239. 

JESUS! OATasM which shall for ever be 

The cordial of humble fiUnting hearu ; 

The triumph of exultant Piety ; 

Religion's richest Sum ; Nor shall the artt 
Of rude and peevish Heresy suppress 
That IV^sMip which the due Revenue is. 

24a 

JESUS t O A^tfSM of glorious Dainties, how. 

Loth are my ntvish'd Ups with thee to part t 

Yet shall thy musick never cease to flow 

In predous Echos all about my heart 
JESUS I O sweeter ATosm of Li/k/ O Name 
Which makest funous ev'n etirmal/awu. 

241. 
These wonders Psyche were atGhiev6d here, 
This poor plain Cave with royal worth to crown : 
And yet not these alone ; has not thine ear 
Been fill'd with Balaam's infiunous renown, 
Whose simple Ass. his fury to confute. 
Held with her sillier Lord a wise Dispute. 

242. 

This Son of Avarice, and Heir of Hell, 

By frighted Balah hirM to enchant 

And heap his curses upon Israel, 

Was by thy Spomse inforcM to recant 
His dire intent, and like his Ass to make 
His cbangM tongue against his nature ^leak. 

243. 
Thy spouse's power wrung that bright Prophesy 
Fkom his black mouth, of Jacobs rising Star ; 



Which he bequeathed as a Legacy 
To all his Heirs ; and chaig'd them to beware 
That no forgediilness did Blind their eyes 
Fhxn watching when that promis'd Light should 

244. 
Amongst their mystic Notes these words they laid 
Fhxn age to age, and often read them o*r 
With dread devotion ; being still afraid 
The Star might at some unexpected door 
P6ep out from heav'n, and spy their souls asleep. 
Whom Balaam bad forewam'd their watch to keep. 

245. 

No broad-ey'd Comit on the world could look 

But strait uito their studies them it sent ; 

Where, after counsd had with many a book. 

Through all its flaming lineaments they went ; 
F.Tamining the length of every hair 
By its own light, which head or beard did wear. 

246. 

But when Eternity's sweet Day began 

To dawn fimn this, O how unlikely Cave I 

A gallant Star into Arabia rsn 

And notice of the glorious business gave 
To every eye, which was instructed how 
To read the characters of heav'n's bright bow. 

247. 

Three venerable Men were dwelling there 

As wen within all hoary, as without ; 

Kings of the neighboring fields and boroughs, where 

They reign'd by secret Wisdom's high repute. 
No Star, but well they knew ; for from the East 
They long had been acquainted to the West 

248. 
These looking out that night their friends to view, 
Espy'd a stranger drest in Inigfat attire. 
To which their greedy Contemplations flew 
And busy were about the radiant fire. 

The more they look'd, the fisirer room they found 

Whereon high expectations to ground. 

249. 
Fond Eyes, which gas'd long since the Star was set, 
Dream'd that a flaming Child hi it they saw, 
Whose golden shoulders wore a cross ; the wit. 
Of Superstition thus deviseth how 
To fool it self, and credit whatsoe'r 
Deceits in iu blind fancies' book appear. 

250. 
A Book which cunning Hell improves so high 
That it has often cost poor Tmth full dear : 
For Lyes embroider'd upon Verity, 
The Poison of the wholsome groundwork are. 

Thus foolish Tares once mix'd with solid Wheat, 

The credit of the hopeful crop defieat 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVPS MYSTERY. 



137 



251. 
These sa^ Observers no such thing descry'd 
In this tinusual Star^ but only read 
A beauteous Miracle, whose beams outvy'd 
All glories that bright Venus* s face could plead : 
And when the Day drew on, display^ feu- 
More cause why this should be the Morning Star, 

252. 
For when from roseal Aurora* s door 
Fair Titan shak'd his locks and marchM out ; 
Nor any of the other Spangles, nor 
Brisk Venus oould approve her self so stout 
To stand the dint of his approaching Light, 
But slip'd adde and waited for the night 

253. 

But this brave Star stay'd still, and to his face 

Boldly told Pkebus, he had more to do 

In heav'n, than he ; and that he kindled was, 

A fiurer nobler Day than his to show ; 
A Day which sprung not from his vulgar East, 
But chose its own Mom where it pleasM best. 

254. 

The Star's so daring Resolution much 

Amas'd the Magi; who in all their old 

ReocMrds of Wonders, could not meet with such 

A venturous Apparation inroll'd : 
Nor (did their eyes not urge them to confen) 
Would grant there could be such a one as this. 

255. 
But since it plainly thus outfac'd the Plea 
Of any Doubt : their thoughts' Result defined 
That some incomparable Mystery 
In its prognosticating count'nance shined : 
And why, said they at length, may not this be 
The Star great Balaam* s quick-ey'd soul did see ? 

256. 
Then throwing all thefr useless books aside, 
To Him they su'd who kindled that divine 
Foresight in Balaam, to be satisfy'd 
About the meaning of that Flaming sign ; 
God kindly answer'd them and taught them why 
He dieck'd the Sun by that fiur Pttxttgy. 

257. 

Heaven's mighty Love thus universal is. 

Whilst through the School of Magick Darkness it 

Disdaineth not with gracious beams to press ; 

That in their black Profession it may meet 
The Sons of Night with radiant Merey, and 
Them to the Day of Bliss and glory send. 

258. 
Thefar sumptures now they hastily provkle. 
Though yet uncertain which way they shonki tend : 

46 



When lo the Star vouchsaf 'd to be their guide. 
And with a moderate pace its joumy bend 

To Palesiint ; that it might not outrun 

Tbefr Dromedaries' mortal motion. 

259. 

Sweet was their March : O courteous Star^ said they. 
Who would not follow thy direction 1 what 
Sly Emx- now can cheat us of our way 
Who under heav'n's bright conduct travel I that 
Fair fiery Pillar which led Israel, we 
Now envy not, who convoy'd are by thee. 

26a 
Advancing thus, till Salem* s towry head 
Had met their eyes, they thither tum'd their way 
Presuming there to find the princely bed 
Whereon the newborn King 0/ Salem lay. 
But now the Star grew wroth and hid his face 
To chide their dotage on that gaudy place. 

261. 

That chode in earnest ; but mistaken They 

Concdv'd its office was expired here. 

Now to their joum/s period his ray 

Had brought them safe : though old and wise they were. 
They had not learned that the Sovereign 
Of Lowliness doth worldly Pomp disdain. 

262. 
In joyous haste they through the City's gate 
Their passage snatch, and bless the happy place 
Which crown'd and privileged was by fieite 
Heav'n's glory to outvy : for there alas 

With fond hopes swollen they expect to see 

Thy mighty Spouse's hifant-Majesty. 

263. 

V^th their great question every street they fill, 

Demanding where his native Palace stood 

Who now was iom the King 0/ Israel; 

Whose Star has brought us from our own abpde, 
The East, said they, to represent our meet 
And bounden homage at this royal feet 

264. 
Much was the boldness of the Men admir'd 
Who now within the reach of Herod's spight. 
So stoutly for another King enquir'd. 
Plainly oonfiiting his usurpM Right 

But Fiety is valiant, and can 

In fearing God, defy the fear of Man. 

265. 
This News with jealous terror having rung 
Through thousand ears, at length to Herod s came. 
The guilty Tyrant startled was and stung. 
Hearing that stiangely-broach'd and dangerous fame : 

His heart throbb'd high, his sceptre seem'd to quake. 

His Throne to totter, and his Crown to cmck. 

S 



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CANIO VII. 



266. 

Yet to ehide all thrcatning Omens, He 
Muster'd his cruel wit. and vow'd to lay 
Some holy-looking Plot, whose subcilty 
Both his young Rival and his fears might slay. 
His rage he clok'd, and io a Synod sought 
How to resolve the noble Strangn's Doubt. 

207* 

The Priistt and ScHUs from reverent Records there 

Produc'd inspirM AfuMa's Prophesy 

Before the King the mighty Point to dear. 

But to the Fiigriwu in his Ooset He 
Wisely imparu the News ; and silts from them 
Each drciunstance of their eonimcHngjUMu, 

268. 

Which havhig heard at huge : Go then, sidd He, 

And may Success your brave Devotion crown ; 

Yet grant your friend this easy courtesy, 

Not to ingross Religion as your own ; 
But when y' have found the Injani, let me know. 
That I may Him adore as well as you. 

No solemn Entertainment now shall stay 
Your pious seal, although my Honor be 
Ingag'd this ceremonle's debt to pay : 
But when your greater Work's dispatch^, we 
Shall take such royal course, that you shall find 
Our court to strangers cannot be unkind. 

27«a 
So spake the wiley King. But honeSI they, 
Who had no Star to shew them Herod's heart, 
Believ'd his tongue, and with well-meaning Joy 
Retum'd their thanks ; then greedy to depart, 
Their leave they took ; and by devotion driv'n 
Thought Bethlehem road the only way to heav'n. 

271. 
And now behold, their recondlM Star, 
Which Justly had disdain'd its beams to shew 
To cursM Herod, represented their 
Illustrious Convoy to their ejres ; which new 
And joyful hopes strait kindled in their breast. 
To see themselves from desolate Night releast 

For D^ to them had worn no other fiEu:e 
But that of black uncomfortable Night: 
And PhAns posting to another place, 
Did with his useless beams but mock thehr sight : 

Till this most fisithfiil Star again appear'd ; 

Which to their wishes' Port them safely steer'd. 

273. 
But then it stop'd, (for all its work was done,) 
And pointing with a perpendicular ray 



Down to the Cave, bid them bdiold that Sun 
Of which it sdf was but the shaddow : They, 
To whom a moment's stay now seemM long, 
In glad obedience from their sadles sprang. 

274. 
Their several Grooms the foaming Coursers took ; 
The Pages their Oblations prepar'd : 
When musing at the Stables simple Look 
Which much below their lofty hopes appear'd. 
The Princa tum'd their jealous eyes to know 
Of their bright Guide, if they were iigbt» or no. 

275. 

But when they mark'd what firm assurance shed 

Itself down fnm the peremptory Star; 

They march'd in cheerly ; and no sooner had 

Observ'd the humble Majesty which there 
Kept open court, but their Devotion grew 
To soch brave height, that them it prostrate threw. 

276. 

The Mother's eyes in theirs rais'd admiration ; 

The radiant Infants, sacred ecstasy : 

For in her bosom's balmy habitation 

His sweeter Head they saw inshrinM lie ; 
As in the precious and glistering breast 
Of Mother-pearl the Jewel makes its nesL 

277. 
Though in the glorious volumes of the skies 
They oft had many a flaming Lecture read ; 
They here percdv'd these brighter Rarities 
Strongly confute those twinckling books, and bid 
Them seek no more for Stars above ; nor be 
So vain as to look upwards Heaven to see. 

278. 
Thrice t h ere f or e having kiss'd the ground ; BdKdd, 
Cry'd they, great King ofaU the WoHd, poor We 
Whom by Thy Star thou sendedst for, are bold 
To cr ee p thus near thy gracious Majesty. 
The Name of King has flattered us a while. 
But we resign to Thee that fitter Stile. 

27^ 
The foolish Worid surnames us Wise; but We 
No more will that ambitieua Title own ; 
Which truly due. and suting none but Thee, 
Before thy footstool here we throw it down : 
Accounting this our highest Wisdom^ that 
We by thy Grace this Lowliiiess have got : 

280. 
That AVfljf art Thou; the hopes of whose dear Bfcth 
Have many fainting Gencmions cheer'd : 
That Jacob's Star whose Rising here on earth 
The shades and types of Prophesies hath dear'd ; 
Displaying to this grovcUng Worid, which lay 
Till now in Darkness, a meridian Day. 



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CANTO VII. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY, 



>39 



281. 

That soverdgD IViuhm, which contriv'dst at first 

The fobrick of this universal Ball; 

By thy dinctioii it from Nothing bunt ; 

Aiid in thy Counsel's boundless Circle all 
Motions of heaven and earth still acted be : 
Both Change and Chance are Certainties to Thee. 

28?. 
Here drawing near, and having his Oblation 
Laid fiEUriy in his Crown ; the First, before 
His in/ant Lord with triple adoration 
Thus tender'd his devotion ; of the store 
To me thy t>ounty has been pleas'd to give. 
Vouchsafe this humble tribute to receive. 

283. 
It is the purest Gold my care could get, 
Yet b^gs now to be gilded by thine Eye : 
Unless true Richness thou wilt glance on it, 
Thy hand's acceptance 'tis too poor to buy. 
If thus this suppliant Gold may be beholden 
To thy beam's charity, it will htgoldtn, 

284. 
Then came the Second with like reverence, and 
His OfGring in his Royal Censer brought ; 
Accept, sweet Babe, from my unworthy hand. 
Said he, this Incense, since 't has now found out 
The next way to its God, and needs not rise 
In labouring clouds to reach the lofty skies. 

285. 
The noblest 'tis my diligence could meet 
Amongst the spicy beds of Araby, 
Which in her first-fruits hither comes, to let 
Thee know the rest at home is due to Thee, 
And craves thy leave to kiss thy lovely feet : 
No way but so, to make her odours sweet 

286. 

These two fair Copies were transcribed by 

The Third, whose Present was delicious Myrrh ; 

And, this to wait on thy Humanity 

O my incarnate God, I here prefer : 
That Nature which till now, said he, was poor 
Aabes and Dust, in Thee we must adore. 

287. 
The Babe look'd up, and with a gentle eye 
Approv'd their orthodoxal sacrifice ; 
But as the Mother's gnuaous courtesy 
Held forth his willing hand to meet their Uss ; 

O no, our lips are too too foul» they etfd ; 

^ his Clout's Uss may they be purify'd. 

288. 
They kiss'd it, and arose : But on the floor 
Ambitioiuly stiU left their Crowns, that they 



Might gain the honor to be foot-stools for 
Glory's own Prince; whose court most justly may 
Be strew'd and pav'd with Diadems, since He 
Reigns King ofhings and Lord of Majesty, 

289. 
And now as much of Night as dar'd draw nigh 
The native palace of fair Grace's Day 
Was hither crept ; the Pilgrims' modesty 
Beg'd leave to lodge before the door : for they 
In toyal reverence durst not think the same 
Roof fit to cover both their Lord and them. 

290. 
Thus having pitch'd then* tents without, and said 
Their prayers to the God they left within. 
With sweet content themselves to rest they laid ; 
Where when soft Sleep his gentle stealth began 
Upon their brows ; a Dream came close behind. 
Which op'd a '^sion to their waking mind. 

291. 
God in a mystick Voice, which well they knew 
By its dear rellish in their hearts, descended, 
Timely discovering to their wondering view 
What Heroes bloody Jealousy intended ; 
What ambushes of desperate traps, if they 
Retum'd by Salem, had beset their way. 

292. 
This Warning they, when Morning out had sent 
The Jlaming Giant to his daily race. 
With hasty joy obey'd : jret forward went 
Their feet amain, but with as svrift a pace 
Their hearts recoU'd, so did their eyes, and in 
The glorious Stable would again have been. 

293- 
Thus strugling homeward by a private way, 
Unreach'd by harm they to Arabia came : 
Where, through th' astonish'd Towns, a lull Display 
They brandish'd of the noble Infants Fame ; 
Returning richer Gold, and purer store 
Of S%oetfs, than they from thence to BeMehem bore. 

294. 
The precious Name of JESUS, would alone 
Discharge that debt, and purchase all the rest : 
The Gold, Myrrh, Incense, which that Region 
In all its richest hills and vales possest ; 

And authorize each Part of Araby 

To take its surname from Felicify. 

295. 
Say Psyche now was not this simple Place 
Most gloriously worth thy joumy hither? 
But Time 's at hand which will erect Disgrau 
On* this Foundatibn of Honor, whither 

One King shall send as studied Scorn, as three 

Brought reverent and costly Piety. 



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CANTO VII. 



296. 

This TtmpUof Virginity will He 

Deform to blackest Lusft unworthy Sty ; 

Rear'd in the blessed Mamgtr*t place must be 

The cursM Altar of Ifmpurity : 
And VtHMs and Adonis' titles swell, 
JESU's and Marys mention to ezpell. 

297. 
O then ciyd Ptyekt (for the Amg€l now 
Clot*d up his Ups.) may I that time prerent. 
At Purity s ummvish'd shrine my Vow 
Bums to be paid. Alas, what though I want 
Gold, Incense, Myrrh ? I have a Heart which Cain 
Upon this Manger's Ahar would be slain. 

298. 
It would be slain, thereby a Life to find 
Which will not give its noble Name the lye : 
For whilst I Unger groveling in this blind 
Valley of Sin, by Uving I but Die. 
A mortal UJk is but an handsomfictim 
Nothing well-drest, a flattering Contradiction. 

299. 
Here kneelfaig down, she dews with liberal tears 
The holy Relique, and with pious sighs 
Quite blows th' unworthy Dust away ; nor cares 
She though the empty Mangtr mock her eyes. 
Since her sharp-sighted Faith could Him descry 
Who in that Oadle once vouchsaf d to lie. 



30a 

A thousand hearts she wish'd she had been worth. 
And full as many times that Wish renew'd ; 
That generously she might have pour6d forth 
Her single Self to Him in multitude. 

OvCT and over she would Cain be His^ 

And tries Love's sweet ImpossiHIitios. 

301. 
O what Contentions of Grief and Joyes, 
And pious Languishments now throng'd her breast I 
How many amorously-violent ways 
Her venturous Soul tiy'd to be dispossest 
Of Fleshe's tedious dogs, that she might to 
Her Spouse's pure imbnioes naked go I 

302. 

But thr'd by this mysterious agony. 
Her spirits to the powers of sleep submitted : 
Oft had they quickned up themselves, and by 
Stout seal repuls'd th' inchroadung mists that flitted 
About her eyes ; which yet prevail'd at last. 
And on the Manger laid her head to resL 

303. 
Her eyes were cSos'd, but wide awake her heart. 
Which dearly run by Reoollectioa through 
The noble Story ; reading every part 
And drcumstance, she knew not where nor how : 
Whilst Pkyiax for her canopy had spread 
His tender guardian Wing above her head. 



NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Stana 4, 1. i. 'Aksamdef't Mmmment'- 



I of the I 



pathotic and siigg«stiv« of spectacles to-day, is the wretched 
Mahometui tomb in a squalid and miseraUe little moaqoe in 
Alocaadria— of Alexander the Gfeat How diflerent from wliat 
it once was, when his fakhful soldiers bore their master's em- 



lIKdy 



Livingstone's was borne from inner Africa. Penooally nothing 

has ever so touched me as my visit and revisits to this ' tomb? 

*Aatck* B= hold within— a play on the 1 



L 1. V 
worker: 



idy firom far-off Babylon-nnuch as in our own day, 

> 
St. 6, 1. a, *MatcM' = bold witnin— a play on the meaning • 
lay.' St. 18, 1. 3, ' Mofy * = colour of soot— a bntvely-choi 
epithet, as later and most effecdvely by Robert Bbur in his 
'Grave' applied to the blackbird. Sl aiB, L 6^ 'pray* s= prey. 
St. aob L 3, '^w/lbiwtt's inspired. St 31, 1. a, * Factor* =■ 
- ^ M. s. *.r«/«/ft*n»w' = salutary. St. 38, L s, 

^ by 'sea'). St 41. 

Bven Ben Jonson so 
tampoed with words, 9^. he transmogrifies ' will ' into * wull' 
to ihyme with 'dull* (1%e Forest : iv., To the World, st. 8^ 
St 49, L a, ' Tkeamikrepick* = incaniatioo, ' God manifest 10 
the liesh,' St 47. 1-3. ;^/««s' = Albionf St. sa. 1. 1, 
' tilly ' s= rustic, as m Snakeq>eare— ' There was a fourth man 
In a taiy habit' (Cymb. v. 3X St 53, 1. 6^ '^/' narrow, 
marie. St 6a, L 4, ' »w»i«|^dS«Mr ' = disorder, i.«. the line 
disorder that Ben Jonson and Herrick admired. St 64, L i, 
* Candor' s whiteness. St 66w L a, ' Claritrntc* s deamess. 
St. 69» L 3. 'ionltod*^wihoL St 70^ L ti^ '^wngr's^big. 



< VMMLTV 's journey (not necessarily, as now, by ' 
1. i^*/ffrM' = fot^Mdit-rytkmicauta. "* 



St93,l^'«V*'V 



child-bearing.' £»t isoT L 6^ 
All. St 13a, L a, ' wmortky 
Sti33: • "" '• 
St 70,1 



xoi, L a, *gmmd* k 

' s mhservient, help- 

**• .*3«. V 1? ' ^"'Jl^rtMy wnv ' = way unworthy [of thenl 

33. L I, • rnmr/'s travail St 13& L 5. 'AiWjr'-see 

3,1.6 :««*,'>«/'« foolish. St I?i, L I, •/•riwr'rf' 

B preserved. St x66. L 4, ' CierMsibt '— eoa at 66, 1, a. St 

169, L ^ ' ce^^'— misprinted coffins in original St 178, L 6^ 

k/ast ' s break fast— not then so homely a word as now. 

* " '" - - crmtdk's^ 



• 4,'moat' 
T bt 183. 1. «, ' comdetcmt * = condescenaioo. St 187, 
1. 8, 'Cehitn4P^\ctiy bearing (Lat ceisitudoX St toj, 
L6, '/o/dM/'aqrifffady, butanodduaeof the woni. St 
■07, r I, ckampaim'^p^aSaL St soa L 4, *kear*^hem. 
St ai7, L 4, 'JfmviA's marvels. St ero^ 1. 5, *Ms^d' = 
posed St aao, L 4, 'iwilttsnT* s dance ao called : V5; *mi- 
voitrmss* szmyngitntu. St asi, L x, '10^' = pretty. St 
■54* 1- 4* Apparatifim* ^ appandoa, le, appeaiance^ See 
another cunoos spellinf on page 149, at 13, L & St 958, L x. 
'nfM>/i(rw's magnificence: but qu.sMmplerr St a66, 
L 5* •S>>Mtf's assembly. St 967, L a, ' JVkvU ' = Mkah. 
St a7<, L 3.*cJk*trty'ssahuilj. gt 978, 1. 3, ' rV'-mk- 
pnnted'my'intheonginaL St 086^ L 4, '>f«^' s profcr or 
offer.^ St. 909, 1. 5, '»' = a». St 994, li: S-6» '-rfmff . . . 



ooer. bt. 999, 1. 5, ' 
^rAn!(y'=AntbiaFe] 



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CANTO VIII. 
The Pilgrimage. 



The ARGUMENT. 

Lmfit Pruemiaiiam soUmnitSd; Ht 

To Egypt thrtmgk the dismal DesaciJNes; 

Where, hy the dint ^true Divinity, 

He dasheth daum the foigM Deities : 
And thence,whe» Herod had the Infonts slain, 
Andjvaidot Him, rehtmeth home again. 

I. 

SAge Nature, how profound is thy discretion, 
Inamdling thy sober Courtesies 
By seasonable useful Intermission ! 
Thou lett'st us fed the Want, to leam the Price ; 
Thou checkerest every thing with such wise Art, 
That Rau proves constant successor to Smart, 



When Nights blind foot hath smear'd Heav'n's face. 

dieZ>tfy 
With lovely beauty all the welkin gflds ; 
When Wintei^s churlish Months are thawn away, 
The hvdy Spring with youth diears up the fields ; 

When Clomds have wep't their bottles out, 'tis fidr ; 

When Winds are out of breath, Thou still'st the air : 



When sestnating in her mighty toil 
The Sea has wrought up to her highest shore. 
Her weary Floods Thou teachest to recoil 
Bade to that Rest wherein they swum before. 
And to all great and swelling Labours Thou 
As sure an Eb dost oonstantiy allow. 



Yet Sle^ the Gentlest of thy Blessings is, 
V^th which Thou sweaty Pains dost gratify : 
When Phe^ns through all heav'n has speeded his 
Long smoaking course. Thou giv'st him leave to lie 
Down on the pillows of the watofy Main, 
Till brisk Anrora wakens him again. 



When Trees aU Summer have been labouring hard 
Tbdr blossoms, kaves^ and fruit in bciogiog forth ; 



The Night of Wmter Thou dost them afford. 
And bidst their Vigor go to bed in earth ; 
Down to the Root strait sinks the tirM Sap, 
And sleeps dose and secure in Ttlln^s la^ 



When Rivers many tedious months have run 
Through craggM rocks, and crooked peevish waies ; 
Thou mak'st stem Bereas pitiful, who on 
Their necks a friendly-rigid bridle lays : 
This locks them up in glass, and makes them rest 
Till they are wak'd by Sununer's southern Blast 



When Man has traveU'd with his hand, or mind, 
(For this both toils and sweats, as well as that,) 
Thou in a tender misty Vail dost bind 
His heavy head, and teach his eyes to shut 
Out grief and pain, that so reposM He 
May hug'd in Sleep's all-downy bosom be. 



Yet other Creatures littie find in Sle^ 
But that dull pleasure of a gloomy Rest, 
Which they themsdves perodve not when they reap : 
Mtm by this fuller privil^ is blest. 
That Sleep it sdf can be awake to him. 
And entertain him with some courteous Dream. 



He, when his Touch, his Tongue, his Eye, his Ear, 
His Nose, hi Sleep's thick night are muffled up ; 
Can fed, can taste, can smdl, can see, can hear, 
And in his quick Dispatches meet less stop 
Than when he wakes ; for now his Soul alone 
Can through his mystick business fredy run. 

la 
O sweet Prerogative t by which we may 
Upon our piUows travd round about 
The Universe, and turn our woric to play ; 
Whilst every joumy is no more but thought. 
And every thought flies with as quick a pace 
Quite through iu kmgest, as itt shortest race; 



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143 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO VIII. 



II. 

No oatwird Objects' importuning Root 
Intrudes on sprightfiil fimde's operations ; 
Who, Queen in her own orb, atchieves with stout 
F^reedom her struge extemporal Oeations ; 
And sooraing Comtradutum't laws, mt ease 
Of nothing, makes what Worids her self dolh please. 

13. 
Nor is the Body more befriended than 
The Soul, in sound Digestion's work, by SUtp : 
This is the undisturMd Season when 
The Mind has leasure to concoct that heap 
Of crude unsetled Notions, which fill 
The troubled brain's surcharge ventricle. 

13. 
In this soft Calm, when all alone the Heart 
Walks throogfa the shades of its own silent breast, 
Htav'n takes delight to meet it, and impart 
Those blessM Visions which pose the best 

Of waUng eyes ; whose day is quench'd with night 

At an spiritual Appiration's sight 

14. 

^ this time Psyeki having salUd through 
The Infdnt'itofy, whilst her Dr^m did steer 
Her Soul's trim nimble bark ; She felt her brow 
Eas'd of its cloudy weight, and growing clear. 
StFsit Phylax spy'd her looking up, and ayd, 
Tis well thou hast thy Spouses lodging try'd. 

Marvel not how this Manger could agree 

With that most tender Infants dainty head : 

For by this copy He commends to thee 

The scorn of Wanton£sse*s plumy bed. 
Thou seest sweet Sleep is possible upon 
A cold and churlish couch of board or stone. 

16. 

Tis not the flatt'ry of fine things without. 

Which can with genuine softness cloth thy Rest. 

Down proves but precious thorns, and silk doth flout 

His hopes of quiet sleep : whose treacherous breast, 
Though with external unguents sleek, within 
Is harsh and rugged, being lin'd with Sin. 

17. 
The honest Plowman in the simple straw, 
Which fumish'd his first board, and now his bed ; 
Reaps solid savory Rest, and steeps his brow 
In deepest Ease : whilst though the Tyrant's head 
Be laid in Delicacy s softest lap. 
By knawing fears and cares 'tis plowM up. 

!«- 
If Vici and Vengtana had dot tts prevented. 
We to the Tta^U now oar way diould take : 



But they have reveU'd there ; and those lamented 
Ruins, too late a sad confession make. 
Fire, and the Raman rage on it have prey'd. 
And aU iu Gkxies* flames in ashes laid. 



19- 

Whilst yet it stood, the Virgin-MoUUr, when 

The Law's time dted to PuriJUatwn ; 

Hastes thither with her eariy-pious Sam 

To pay obedience to that needless fashion : 
Needless to Her, who of no human seed 
Had ever been the spotted sinful Bed. 

2a 
Dare Ortmami4s think themselves so dean 
As to presume to wash the Maminf^s lace 
When she hath brought forth Glory's Sum, and been 
New-gilded by that birth with brighter grace I 
How shall the virgin Crystal purer grow I 
What ligal RHu can purge and whiten Snow/ 

21. 
Yet was the gallant Mam ooatent to go ; 

So was the spotless Crystal, and the Snam ; 
And own Pollution, rather than not do 
Their ready homage to the reverend Law, 
Which yet was by a saongei back'd. for She 
Went suounon'd by her own Ifmnili/y, 

22. 

And there airiv'd. the Smbstasua to the Skoda 

She join'd, and clear Truth to the misty Type; 

Broad Day She of a glimmering TiayHglU made ; 

Long-breeding and crude Hopes she tum'd to ripe 
ihmition ; and to conquer all example, 
Kfairtr TtmpU brought into the TempU, 

33. 
A rM^Zr, where not one, but every Gate 
Was Beautifki: a Tatmpk where eadi part 
Most holy was ; a Ttmple where, though State 
Shin'd not without. Heav*n*s Monarch kept his oouit : 
A Ten^k which iu strange foundation had 
Ahave; a TempU which was Mats and God. 

34. 
When he drew near, the WaOs and pavement smil'd, 
The Roof would fiain have bow'd to kiss his feet ; 
The pious incense smelt the swutor Child 
And chang'd its usual path, vrith Him to meet : 
It soard not up. but to the door inclin'd. 
To heav'n the shortest passage so to find. 

35. 

The ChtnOs vHiich dwelt dose behind the Vaii 
Had much ado to keep themselves within ; 
Knowing that firom thdr secret Orade 
The outward Temple now the Oloiy won ; 
In which a higher Priost appear'd than He 
For whom akme thdr Mvacy was free. 



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CANTO VIII. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY, 



143 



261 

O bow the ttcmtd TtmfUs strange Renown 
\)9JiaX^ the First f That fahrick learM by 
David t win Som, bow'd long albrehand down 
To itnsyouHg Temple's following Majesty ; 
And kiss'd the dust, surrendring thus its place, 
Since Jesit's Presence was this House to grace. 

27. 

And now the Mother on her bended knee 
Presenu to HeaT'n her Son before the Priest; 
Whose Priesthood O how far tiansoendeth SJU 
Who cfkrs God/ into her bosom's Nest 
Th' BttmaJ Father having sent him down, 
Right noble she thus yields Him back his own. 

28. 

When reverend yokaaar received the Child, 
Tfaroogh all his breast a secret gladness ran : 
Modi he admirM how his heart came fill'd 
With more than usual devotion ; 
Not yet aware that in his arms fai more 
Than Paradise, or Heav*n it self, he bore. 

29. 

For wise, and most severely humble She 
Her tongue would never licence to unfold, 
What might an argument of honour be 
Toherall-gloiy-shunningSelf: nor could 
Or durst she think, but her great Infant knew 
Himself, when best it was himself to shew. 

30. 
But then (admonish'd by the courteous Law) 
She with five shekels buyeth back her Son, 
Were thousand Worlds her own. She would bestow 
Them, and her self, for his Redemption : 
But this poor Price serv'd her to ransom Him 
Who Her, and all the workl, was to Redeem. 

31. 
Two milky Pidgeons (her own Emblems) She 
Then pays as duties of PuriJUation: 
The gentle Birds a mourning fell to see 
How they had lost their dearer habitation : 
Less sweet they thought the Altar, and would lain 
Be nestling in her breast or lap, again. 

32. 
But holy SimeoMt whose stout Erpectation 
Grounded on Heaven's high Credit, did sustain 
His Bg6d life ; by potent inspiration 
Fofgot his leaden pace, and flew amain 
Into the Temple : for the nimble Blast 
Of God's own Spirit lent him youthful haste. 

33* 
O bow his greedy Soul did work and beat. 
And think the time ao age, till he was oome 



To his dear Blisse's shore 1 where, hi the heat 
Of hasty seal, he snatch'd his Saviour home 
Into his longing aims, and heart, which broke 
Out at his lips, and thus its passion spoke : 

34. 

O Life, thou now art out of debt to my 

Long-stretch'd Attendance, and canst nothing show 

Of further worth to gratify mine eye^ 

And charm it still to hanker here bdow. 
No ; I have seen, what I did live to see, 
The Worlds Jfopes, and mine own, and here they be. 

35. 
Dear Lord of Truth, here, here 's that hop'd-for He 
In whom lie treasur'd Power and Salvation, 
Which now thy Love ezposM has to be 
The blessed Theme of humane Contemplation. 

All Eyes may see this Face, as well as. I, 

And clearly read their own felidty. , 

36. 

This noble Face; by whose soul-pierdng raies 
The Gentiles, quite dam'd up till now in night, 
Admonish'd are to understand their waies. 
And tread the open paths of highnoon Light ; 
This Face, whose more than golden beauties be 
The glorious Crown of Jacob's Progpty, 

37. 

Death, if thou dar'st draw near Life's blooming King, 

O take possession of my willing heart ! 

That I, a swarthy and unworthy thing, 

Ftem his too-radiant presenee may depart 
Too blest am I to live, and cannot bear 
The burden of this heav'nly Lustre here. 

38. 

The good old Man thus eas'd his i^ous Zeal ; 

And having sacrific'd a Kiss upon 

The Infants royal foot, began to feel 

His Prayers were heard, and Death now drawing on : 
Which He to meet, went home, and order gave 
M^th sweet and hasty Joy, about his grave. 

39. 

As his Devotion's fidthfhl Echo, lo 
The venerable Matron Anna came ; 
She iriiose prophetick heart advis'd her to 
Attend upon and magnify the same 

Young Son of Wonders; that her Sex in Her 

As bis in Himt its duty might prefer. 

40. 
And soon she met a fiill reward of all 
Those nights and days her fervor here had spent : 
Her Fasts were crown'd with Blisse's festival ; 
Her longing Prayers which hence to heav'n she sent 

To pull it down, now found it ready here ; 

For in the Infanfs faat it shinti dca^ 



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144 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CAKTO VIII. 



41. 

So detr. that tnith admiring she ooald not 
Rotnln lier tongue from being Trumpet to 
The Dawn of such ooDTindng Brightnen, bat 
Through Salim's longest streeU reaohr'd to go, 
Spfeading ber Proclamation to each ear 
And heart, which iong'd that heav'nly Newt to hear. 

43. 

This caU'd to many wondring eyes to gase 

On that pure JIMkdr and her fiiier Som, 

That from the gloty of that popnlons Place 

To poor and private NoMttrUk she ran ; 
Where, in her lowly house she hop'd to hide 
Her humbler self from Honor's growing tide. 

43. 
But Noitor weona the tealous conning diase 
Of most ambitioas eager Hunters ; and 
Persues those modest Souls from place to place 
By whom she sees ber orient Presence shun'd : 
Nor is she e'r out run. or £uls to raise 
Their Names with Trophies, and their brows with 
Bay.. 



But when fai Salim this great News grew hot 
And flam'd to HtrotTt court ; the Tyrant's Breast 
Boil'd high with rage, and vejct suspicion that 
This fire might reach his Throne : which made him cast 
Deep, desperate counsels in his restless mind, 
For this bold Danger some stout Curb to find. 

45- 

Mean while the Virgin^ and her Husband^ who 

In holy Innocence inmur^ were. 

Attended their great Chargi^ and fearM no 

Troublous assaults, or ambushes of fear. 
No Pttil 's so presumptions as to come 
Into their house, who bad their God at home. 

46. 

In this weak-waU'd but mighty Garrison 
They mean to rest, till sent by Heav*M away ; 
On Heav'n's ingagM Providence alone 
Dependeth both their Joumy and their Stay : 

This Sentinel his watch exactly keep'd, 

And wak'd for them both when they wak'd and sle^'d. 

47. 

Now therefore as in Slumber's arms they lay 

(For 'twas high midnight) Jostpk's vtiagfid/Hmd 

Rousing his soul up by a mistic ray 

Bids him his speedy flight to Egypi rend ; 
For Herod's spight contrives to slay, said he. 
The /H/ant, and in him thy Wife and Thee. 

4«. 
O that my wfaigs might be his Chariot ! bat 
This noUe Favoor HeaVn reserves for thee, 



Fly then ; but see thy self thou trouble not 
With thy Return ; for when the Storm shall be 
Blown clearly over, I '1 not &il to oome. 
And from thy Gods own month recal thee home. 

49. 
This said ; his nearest way the Amgti took 
Homewards, loud fluttering as he mounted up : 
The noise made Josef k start ; who strait awoke ; 
Bat hb wing'd Monitor had gain'd the top 
Of heav'n, and in the spheres indosM was 
E'r Josh's following eye could thither prea& 

SO. 
Yet by his UessM influence left behh&d 
Th' histracted Saimt the Spring intirdy knew ; 
The privU^d eyes of his rdigious mind 
Had k»g acquainted been with Him. and now 
He doobu not but 'twas his dear Gmardiam, who 
Had taught him oft hi straiu what he should do. 

Whilst by her sable curtains Night as yet 
Muflled up Heav'n, and kept the World m bed ; 
Into his doths he leap'd, and made all fit 
For his long joumy : On the Ass he spread 
His Coverlet, and his best Pillow (sweet 
And cleanly hay) afforded him to eaL 

52. 
The Beast thus baited ; He his Axe, and Sawa, 
His Planes. Rules, Mallets, and his other store 
Of bosy honest Implements bestows 
OoeehihisBag, the treasury of his poor 
Industrious subsistence ; which he ties 
Fast to his staff*, and on his shoulder tries. 



53- 



had) 



Which done : two bottles (all the good 1 
Fresh fillM at a neighbour fonntahi, he 
Hangs on his girdle, with his pooch of bread : 
With all things thus acoouter'd, reverently 
He steppM to the bed where Mary lay. 
Crying, Arise ; Hoav'm calleth us away. 

54. 

When She the hnslnna heardr.and saw how He 
Had all his honest sumpture ready made ; 
Far be it, she reply'd. that I should be 
At any hour to follow Heavtm afraid : 
Or k>itering for the morning's Ught shoold tarry. 
Who in my arms my frdrsr Dety shall carry. 

I can be no where lost, dear /Mf , while I 
Tnvd with Tku^ who never canst depart 
Ftom thine own home : so for tboa canst not ffie. 
But thine own Land will meet thee stIU, who ait 

By thine eternal Right, the Piinoe as weO 

OlHem, andi^Oa^, asof/jrvMi: 



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CANTO VIII. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVETS MYSTERY. 



145 



56. 

This untooch'd sacred bank for thy expenoe 
Th' Arabian Dtvolum meant not ; but 
Thy Piureyor was thine own Providence : 
Thou knew'st what Chaiig^e this Joumy would beget, 

And hast laid in Provision e'r we 

Could dream of any such Necessity. 

And yet NecesHfy is no such thing 
To mighty Thu^ whose all-commanding hand 
Governs the rdns of Pate : the bloody King 
Musters his wrath in vain, would'st Thou withstand 

His spight in open field : but thou know'st why 

It will be now more glorious to Fly. 

58. 

This Joumy's but a step to Thu, who from 

The pinnacle of all Sublimity 

In my first Pilgrimage wert pleas'd to come 

And take up thy abode in worthless Me : 
Me, who from heav'n much further distant am 
Then Memfus is firom fisur Jerusalem. 

59. 
This said ; her nhnble self she quickly drest, 
And by no Glasses, but her S<m*s pure eyes : 
Whose furniture strait in a tmndle truss't 
Whilst to the Ass her careful Husband ties, 
She her own little All (and what was that. 
But one spare vail?) into her pocket put 

60. 

Hen having wrap'd the Infant close, she took 
Her dull steed's back : whom leading by the rein 
Jasepkt before the drowsy Town awoke 
Conducted out into the quiet Plain : 
Darkness and Silence dinged round about, 
Barring Discovery and Suspicion out. 

61. 
This early Master thus the noUe Art 
Of Patience 'gan to teach his world below ; 
To sanctify all Persecution's Smart, 
And make it by his owning glorious grow : 
Who but new-bom, designed is to die, 
And long e'r he can go, is fain iojfy. 

62. 
Aurora now the Porter of the day, 
Gat up and op'd her portal to the Sun ; 
Who peeping out with an abased my 
Beheld how fiu: these Travellers had gone 
E'r be awoke, and doubted whither he 
Should in that day's horison needed be. 

63. 

For when he q>y'd the BaU abroad, the sight 
Cost him a deeper blush than that which dyes 

46 



His morning cheeks : yet up he cheer'd his light. 
And venturing on, resolv'd to try his eyes 
Upon that Infant-face of Splendidness, 
As Eaglets us'd to do their own at his. 

64. 

Now loyal Love forbid that coily thou 
My Psyche shouldst disdain to trace their way. 
Since I so fair a Convoy thee allow 
Which neither dangers feareth nor delay : 
Thy God was glad of that poor Asse's back. 
But gives thee leave this Chariot to take. 

65. 

That leave's too noble, she reply 'd, for me, 
A meaner thing than what he rode upon ; 
Might I on foot, or rather on my knee 
Crawle in his royal path, no Prince's Throne, 
Could tempt me fipom my greater honor : — 'tis 
Enough said Pkylax, now no more of this. 

66. 

And here he snatch'd her up and shook the Reins : 
Which item strait the greedy coursers caught. 
And scouring through her soft aerial plains 
The fields of Naxartth to their prospect brought : 
Whose sudden fJEioe when Psyche view'd, she cry*d. 
How much thy steeds my swiftest thoughts outride I 

67. 

O pity then thy Lord, said he. who though 
Spurr'd on by fear, was forc'd to use a pace 
Below the name of speed ; whilst Joseph, who 
Himself was laden, leads the heavy Ass. 

He led him, and although he made no stay, 

Alas his ve^r going was Delay. 

68. 

For on his breast a thousand massy Cares 
More sadly sate, than on his back the load 
Of all his Tools : what thoughts of Herod's fears I 
What studies how to scape the ful-ey'd Road I 
What tenderness to keep the Mother warm 1 
What dainty dread that God should take no harm I 

69. 

For though he knew that Safely was ambitious 

In all their way to bear them company ; 

Yet still he could not banish those delicious 

Assaults of tender loyal Jealousy : 
And Love, when it has nothing else to fear, 
SuspecU defiect in its most caiefiil care. 

70. 
See'st thou that private Path, which ever since 
With UUes and with VloleU hath smU'd, 
Sweetly acknowledging the influence 
Both of the passant Mother and the Child f 
The Countiy wonder'd at the beauteous list. 
But fix>m whose feet it sprung, they little vdst 

T 



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146 



PSYCHE: OR LOVeS MYSTERY. 



CANTO VIII. 



71. 

As to the Sea the Stiver River through 
A thousand bypathes steals its secret way ; 
So doth this floury Tract to Egypt flow 
Declining all things that iu course might stay. 
Doubt not the windings, but securely ride, 
For now the Way it self's thy fragrant guide. 



Look how the GaHUam ViUages 
Their disUnce keep, and give the Path free leave 
To reach it self through these blind Privacies : 
Look how the friendly Trees all interweave 

Their arms, and offer close protection to 

Whoever here in secresy would go. 

73- 
There did the careful Motktr light, to give 
Her Son his diner from her lovely breast ; 
Whom with right seemly welcome to receive 
Kind Earth those sweeUy-sweOing Cushions diest. 
Where'r you see th' officious flowers meet 
In such a junto, know it was her seat 

74. 
Mark yon neglected stable which is shut 
Quite out of town, and stand alone ; with plain 
Yet courteous hospitable Litter, that 
Did these benighted Piigrims entertain. 

They with such Lodging old acquaintance had ; 

Remember what thy Lord his cradle made. 

75- 

Jostph such wary Inns did duly chuse, 

And scap'd observance all the way he went : 

No eye of Galileans, or of Jews 

Discovering his provident intent. 
His way he stole with painful holy theft. 
And on his back at length Judia left. 

76. 
He left yud4a ; but first left by it. 
Since to surprise his CAarg*, the bloody Prima 
His cunning tenier'd. Thus thy Spoust thought fit 
To teach his future Exiles, that the sense 
Of their sad sufirings sate full near his heart 
Who bore in Banishment so deep a part. 

77. 
For this his Part he freely deign'd to bear, 
Not for his own, but for their dearer sake. 
Why then should they whose feeble Natures are 
Unable to resist, think much to make 

Necessity their Virtue, and be by 

Their Exile banish'd into Piety? 

78. 
The freedom of the Reins here Phylax threw 
Upon his coursers' backs : who chear6d by 



That liberty, with sprightful fervor flew 

And scom'd the Towns they saw beneath them Ue. 

Their gallant foam they flung about the air. 

And with brave neighings heartned their carrier. 

79- 
The Ckmds took notice of their resolute haste 
And stepp'd aside to make their passage clear ; 
Through which their smokh^ wheels whirl'd on as fisst 
As Titan's down his glibbest steepest sphere : 
Which instantly so tir'd the A^0riA«ns IVimd, 
That puffing he and lagging came behind. 

8a 

Thus having lost Judea in a mist 

Of far-removM air, they rush'd into 

The fiimous Deserts unperodvM List ; 

Where their impatient fire still spoir'd them so. 
That thiioe was Phylax forc'd to check them, e'r 
Their vehemence would yield his hand to bear. 

81. 

And then ; Consider Psych€ well, said he. 

This squallid scene of churlish DesoUttunSt 

This proper Region of Perplexity, 

This horrid Nursery of Desperattam, 
This Storehouse of a thousand/xiiujif , this 
Fountain of Droughts ^ this Realm of Wretchedness : 

82. 

This Country, whose ill-looking Neighboihood 

To Canaan (that widespred chanel where 

Honey and Milk conspir'd into a flood 

Of costless but incomparable cheer,) 
Doubles the value of that blessM sofl, 
And its own Vileness aggravates the while. 

83. 

Thus sticks black Night as fofl to beauteous Day, 
And by iu blackness lends it frdrer beams : 
Thus sorrow's stings inhanoe the sweeu of Joy ; 
Thus floods of Gall commend the Honey streams ; 
Thus Darkness deavM close on Mirrours' backs. 
The most perspicuous Glass more lightsome makes. 

84. 

Well knew wise Heav'n Men would not understand 

Iu royal bounty, in a£fording them 

The gentle Riches of a fertile Land. 

Were they not tutor'd by some dreadful Clime 

Of bordering woes, and forced to confess 

A Garden's blessing by a Wildemess. 

85. 

The prudent Lover to confirm the priee 
Of her Affectum thus sometimes is frUn 
To run to cruel Art, and barbarize 
Her gentle Count'nance with severe Disdain ; 

For she her wooer wooeth by thb scorn. 

And only whipps him thus to make him learn. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



147 



86. 

Behold these needless Banks of sand, which have 

No Sea to limit but this Ocean 

Of Barreniuss ; where when the Windi conceive 

Highswoll'n displeasure, and to battle run 
Bandying their mutual Blasts a thousand ways, 
A storm of dry and parching rain they raise. 

87. 

For this wild soil, impatient to be plow'd 
At yEolous' beck, in 's face most madly flies, 
And climbing up into a tawny cloud 
With smoaJdng rage torments the stifeled skies. 
Whilst blinded Passengers amazM stand, 
And all the Air is nothing else but sand. 

88. 
This firighted gentler Nature far from hence, 
Who with her snatch'd her blessings all away ; 
Her teeming Spring's delicious influence, 
Her Summer's beauties, and her Autumn's joy ; 
And all the best of WinUr too ; for here 
This sandy Mischief soorcheth all the year. 

89. 

The Trees, you see, are all dispers'd and fled 
For fear of proving only fuel here. 
And that before the Axe had summoned 
Them to the hearth. The cheerly Birds which were 
Their boughs' Inhabitants, with doleful cry 
After their ezil'd home were lain to fly. 

90. 
These churlish Plains no entertainment keep 
Wherewith to welcome tame and honest Beasts ; 
Goats, Asses, Camels, Horses, Oxen, Sheep 
Can at their wretch^ Table be no Guests. 
No; this is only A/m(A»^j curs^ Stage, 
Where Beasts of prey, and Monsters act their rage. 

91. 

Observe that pair of couchant Tigres, who 

In cruel ambush lie to watch their prey ; 

What boots the Traveller's one Life, when two 

Such wild and hungry Deaths beset his way I 
There runs a Lyon with his hideous note 
Tearing for vrant of meat his greedy throat. 

92. 
At which dread business there 's a female Bear 
In meat. and drink two dajrs and nights behind. 
Whose pin6d Wheli>s all yelling in her ear 
Chode her abroad some bootie's help to find. 
A headlong foaming Boar there makes his path 
White with the scum of his intemperate wrath. 

93. 
But mark that Cave, before whose nasty door 
A heap of Ezcremental Poisons lies ; 



Next which a Quakemire of congealed Gore 
Rail'd round with naked staring Bones, descries 
What part fell Fury there hath plaid, and who 
Dwells in that House whose Porch is trim'd with woe. 

94. 

That gloomy Cloud which dams the Den's black throat, 
Is but the Tenants breath which dwells within. 
Our talk has wak'd his Rage, and made it hot 
With hopes of prey : hearst thou not him begin 

To rouse himself? the fire he spits before. 

Is but the Porter to unlock his door. 

95. 
Here Psyche though she now had cheer'd her heart 
Beyond the pitch of female courage, yet 
Could not her trembling curb, but 'gan to start 
At that dire flame the belching Monster spit : 
When Phylax, smiling on her horror, cry'd, 
Fear not, for Htav'n and I am at thy side. 

96. 

He of his coming, by his hideous Hiss 

Fierce warning gives ; that stream of cole-black blood 

He spews so thick, his wonted Usher is : 

Thus when choice Furies break from hell, a flood 
Of stinking Sulphure paves their dismal way, 
Abashing all the Air, and pois'ning Day. 

97. 
Lo how his Eyes, like two bright firebrands placed 
In cakes of blood, their fatal beams display ; 
For thus, with flakes of glaring Rays enchased. 
To Heav'n's high Anger Comets light the way ; 

Pointing with every beam, to Cities, or 

To Realms and Countries, Famine, Plague, and War. 

98. 

His Mouth, which foams with venome, is the Gate 

Of helpless Misery: j^is Jaws, the Mill 

Of deplorable and untimely Fate ; 

His Tongue, an Engine on whose forks there dwell 
A thousand Deaths ; his Throat, so black and broad, 
To his unhappy Prey 's the beaten Road. 

99. 

His leathern Wings are those which lend its speed 
To dire Destruction : his iron Paws 
Are Spighfs and Rage's hands ; his cursed Head 
The Oracle whence Tyrants fetch their Laws ; 

His scaly skin, the thick Embroidery 

Of proud and most remorsless cruelty. 

100. 
His knotty Tail pointed with stinging fire. 
Which on his back in sullen scorn he throws. 
Is Death's dread Chain ; that unrelenting ire 
Which sits so high on his large craggy brows, 
Is an aforehand bloody doom to all 
Beasts, Birds, or Men that in his clutches fall. 



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CANTO VIII. 



JIOT 



lOl. 
Hark how the brnsM Air complains, now he 
Threshes her with the Flails of his huge wings : 
For that soft Nymph elsewhere was ns'd to be 
Beaten with Feathers, or melodions strings : 

Look in what horrid port he cuts the Clouds ; 

The flame before, the smoke behind him crowds. 

I02. 
As when the martial Griffen hovers near. 
The greedy Kite forgets his chased prey, 
And turning partner in the Sparrow's fear 
Is glad as fieut as she to sneak away : 

So here all other Monsters giant that this 

Their Sovereign in Rage and Terror is. 

103 
Thou now seest nehher Lyon, Boar, nor Bear. 
This Dragon's presence frights them all away 
Into their closest Dens and Caverns, where 
They trembling lie, and durst not peep on Day. 
So do all other strange portentous things 
Hence stormM by the thunder of his wings. 

104. 

For else thou here hadst troops of Centaurs seen, 

A mad composure of Horse-Infantry : 

Else Sphinx and his ambiguous Brood, had been 

Abroad in all their forefront bravery, 
Indeavoring to excuse with Maiden-fiioes 
Their Beastly bodies' horrible disgraces. 

105. 

Else had insatiable Harpies, their 

Near Cosen Portents in the winged crew. 

Boldly about this correspondent sphere 

With Virgin's looks, and Vulture's tallons flew : 
Frolick Dsilacious Fauns had else been skipping. 
And Satyrs dallying here, and Silvans tripping. 

106. 

Else had that Riddle of foul Ataxies 

Whose every part is plaodd out of place, 

Who by a Goat's intruded belly ties 

A Dragon's vast tail to a Lyon's face ; 
RangM about these Sands, and sought what Prey 
It's equal monstrous hunger might allay. 

107, 
Hast thou not heard, when Abraham's Off-spring 

through 
The wholesome Tryals of this Wilderness 
Went to the well-deserving Promise, how 
They fondly murmured because Success 
Posted not on as fast as their desire. 
And though the way were short yet needs would tire? 

108. 
They tir'd : though to encourage to the best 
Of patient strength their privilegi6d hearts, 



Such Miracles ocmbin'd as never blest 

The World till then : Heav'n's kindest stoutest Arts 
They by more obstinate shameless scorn neglected, 
And their obtruding Happiness rejected. 

109. 
This forc'd the just Creator's strict Commission 
To Vengeance, his most trusty Factress ; She 
Straight mounting on the liadc of RscpediHant 
The Worid's black bottom plunun'd ; where terribly 

The choisest Dens of Horror having ey'd. 

Into Erinnys grot she tum'd aside. 

no. 

The Pury started ; on her quaking head 

Right up stood every Snake : She ne'r till now 

Had seen a sight so full of fatal Dread, 

Though oft she view'd the deepest Deeps, and though 
She daily used for her looking-glasses 
Her correspondent Sisters' monstrous faces. 

III. 

For in the Stranget^s furrow'd brows were sown 

The seeds of everlasting Indignation ; 

Her eyes were constant Lightning, flashing down 

Her fiery Cheeks, and with their sprightful motion 
Glandng a more than highnoon Day upon 
The frighted Night of that black Region. 

112. 

Her sturdy breast was fram'd of burning brass ; 

Her massy arms of sparkling sted ; her more 

Than adamantine hands bnmdish'd a Maoe 

Of red-hot iron ; at her bade she wore 
A quiver stuffd with forked bolts of thunder 
Well-skill'd in tearing douds and rocks in sunder. 

"3. 

Pain, Anguish, Groans, Astonishsnent, Despair, 
Dissention, Tumult, War, Plague, /dmin. Drought, 
Confusion, Poisnous and Tempestuous Air, 
JBversion, Desolation, Cfying out. 
Gnashing o^ teeth, eternal-dying /ear, 
SouMtnawing Worms, her dismal followers were. 

"4- 
And so was Schism, and flinty Ohduraiion, 
With Pride, and Impudence in villany; 
And she who through her faner garb and fisLshion 
Seem'd more to sute with lovdy company, 
Was yet as rank a curse as they, for she 
Was bUnd asid/alse though eealous Sastctity, 

115. 
But Vengeance spying her Ryrinnys quake, 
Constrain'd her dreadfid Aspect to remit 
Its awfulnesse's dint ; and try'd to speak 
As mild as feiroe she k>ok'd : yet when she set 
Her Mouth's hot furnace ope, to all the Cftve 
Loud Thunder notice of her speaking gave. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



149 



116. 
Fear not, aaid she, I on an errand oome 
Which well will suit with thy revengeful thought : 
The Soiu o/Isrtul thou know'st with whom 
My SaverHgn's Patience long, ah long, hath fought 

lis true he leads them through a barren Earth. 

Yet makes heav'n bring them bread of Angeb forth. 

117. 
But peerish they force Him by murmuring, to 
Repent his Kindness : wherefore thou must spaxe 
Some of thy Locks, which I am sent to throw 
About that Desert's now devoted Air ; 
Where they shaU lash the Rebels, till they see 
What 'tis to kick at God, and waken Me, 

118. 
M€, whom soft Mercy long had stretchM kept 
Upon a bed which she of Patience made : 
Me, who for ever m^ht in peace have slept, 
Did Mortals not take pleasure in this trade 

Of sending up their shameless Sins, to tear 

By daring Ciys my most unwilling ear. 

119. 

Me, who ne'r mov'd this challeng'd Hand in vain. 
Nor knew what 'twas or stroke or aim to loose ; 
Me, whom no Tune can charm asleep again. 
But dying Groans of those my head-strong Foes ; 

Me, whose sure Power it self could deeply seal 

On Lucifer, and ram him down to hell. 

12a 

Rrinmys ^^aA to hear this Message, tore 
Her hissing Hair by handfuls from her head : 
Which hasty Vengeance to this Desert bore 
And through the trembling air their volumes spread ; 
First having breath^ on them warlike fire. 
Which kindled in their breasU mischievous Ire. 

121. 

Th' amased Element would fain have fled 
Ftom all its Regions, to avoid this fight : 
The boldest ^tiMfr that ever bluster'd Dread 
About the World, were now a prey Xo/right; 
And to their furthest dens blowing themselves. 
Gave way to these fax more tempestuous Ehfes, 

122. 

Which were no sooner tossed up, but they 
Their scantness felt increased round about ; 
Their Tails reach'd back their stings an hideous way, 
And from their sides wide-threshing Wings burst out, 
Whose boistrous stroak provok'd the vexdd flames, 
Which from their eyes and mouths pour'd out thefar 
streams. 

123. 
Their own instinct uught them the readiest way 
To find the causeless-rebel Multitude : 



Where seising strait upon their helpless Prey 
Their fiery Poison's shot so thick they spew'd. 

That aU the Camp had their Burntofiring been. 

Had seasonable Meny not step'd in. 

124. 
In Mercy step'd, and by a Contreplot 
A brasen Serpent rearM up to heal 
Their burning Wounds whose faith had strength to put 
Thist in that typick Med'dn's Spectacle. 

They gas'd, and saw their help, but could not pry 

Into the bottom of that Mysteiy. 

125. 

That crucifyed Serpent represented 

Thy SpouH, when on his Cross he reign'd, and by 

His potent Dying gallantly prevented 

The Plot of Death which more than He did die. 
Who crush'd the old red Dragon which had hurl'd 
His deadly venome all about the World. 

126. 

And now thou know'st the pedigree of this 

Feirce Portent which inflames and taints the air. 

Whose fiery looks and smoaking flight confess 

Of what Progenitors he is the Heir. 
Think now how sad a Pilgrimage it was 
When thy young Lord^iA. through such Monsters pass. 

"7. 

Yet shall this hideous R^on appear 
So precious unto fiiture Saints, that they 
Will seek their harbour no where else but here, 
And make these Sands the shore where they will lay 
Their Vessels safe from all those Storms, whose rage 
Reveb on secular Life's unfidthful stage. 

128. 

Hb Pilgrimage they '1 judge a Dedicatkm 

Of all this TYoct to holy Privacy ; 

Where in serene and heav'nly Contempladon 

They shall both sweetly live, and sweetlyer die : 
Dreading no longer other Monsters, when 
They once have rescued themselves from Men. 

^ 129. 

Men, Men, those Portents are, whom wiser fear 
More dangerously pois'nous will esteem 
Than ^SdiA fire-breathing Brood who in the sphere 
Of this vast desert move like Mars hisfiame. 
Men are those Dragons whose profounder art 
Stings not the body, yet can bane the heart. 

130. 
Here they their Cels will build so strongly mean 
That they shall Tempest scorn, and laugh at Phmder ; 
Here th^ as fresh and strong, as pale and lean. 
Will raise their soub and keep their bodies under. 
Here they will importuned Earth intreat 
With HertM or RooU to gratify their Sweat 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVERS MYSTERY. 



CANTO VIII. 



131. 
For neither stubborn flint nor sapless Sand 
Their Barrennesses' privilege will dare 
Strictly to urge against the painful Hand 
Of pious Poverty : such Charters are 
Of Natures granting, and must needs give place 
Unto the grand Prerogative of Grace, 

Here will their Eyes not interrupted be 
With fond Allurements of the newest fashions ; 
Whose Commendation speaks their Vanity, 
Their Worth being only built upon Mutations. 
Their simple Sackcloth in one cut and guise 
To hide their Dust and Ashes will suffice. 

133. 
Here shall no Noise of chincking Money be 
Rebounded by their Heart's inchanted strings ; 
That Noise which with melodious Witchery 
Through all the World's unhappy Quarters rings. 
And gains more Altars for vile Mammon than 
To glorious Heaven will be allow'd by Men. 

134- 
Here shall no glancing Eye, no mincing Pace, 
No sporting Locks, no smiling Red and White, 
No wanton Dress, no Tongue's Sirenian Grace, 
No bidding Coyness, no inviting flight ; 
Prevail upon their manly hearts to brook 
The tickling Slavery of a Woman's yoke. 

135. 
Here no Ambition's Puff shall swell theh: breast 
And in their soul a foolish Dropsy raise ; 
Who by themselves are freely dispossest 
Of all those gardens which can luring forth bays ; 
And live upon a Soil which nothing bears 
But Poverty, and Roots, and Sighs, and Tears. 

«36. 
No terrible Alarm of War shall here 
Ravish the sweetness of their virgin Quiet : 
Heer none of Mars his boistrous Crew shall swear 
Themselves into authority to riot ; 
Nor make the Lords of these poor houses be 
The subjects of fre&quarter's Slavery. 

137. 
Here shall no specious Care of Wife and Child 
Call them away in conscience from their Prayers : 
By Virtue's daily Progress they shall build 
Up to the gate of Bliss their roystick stayers ; 
And thus a second time the World shall leave, 
Nobly to Heav'n rebounding from their grave. 

138. 

But now this tong Discourse devour^ had 
The longer Way, and Egypt* s face drew near ; 



Tkebais Meads and Woods and Towns were glad 
That to the Daert they next neighbours were ; 
And privUeg'd these Strangers first to meet 
And with kind seasonable Welcome greet. 

139. 

When, Lo said Phylax, now the World grows tame, 
And mild and hospitable Prospects yields : 
These are the outmost skirts of populous Ham 
Lufted with Woods, and lac'd with floury fields : 
A dear-eara'd harbour to those Pilgrims who 
Have labour'd through this Desert's Sea of Woe. 

14a 
Thus at the headland's dose wish'd Rest attends 
And home the weary Plowman gently leads. 
Thus hang the Garlands at the Race's ends 
Ready to crown the Runners' sweaty heads. 
Thus Summer cheers the pin6d Earth, when she 
Has pass'd through Winter's total Tyranny. 

141. 
The secomd Joseph hither came, and brought 
Far more Salvation than the First; although 
FVom Famin's Jaws He snatch^ Egypt out. 
And fiEOnM up seav'n starvM years ; for now 

To famish'd Memphis this convey'd the hread 

By which the World eternally is fed. 

142. 
O how he triumph'd that his Charge was here 
Arrived safe through all those perillous ways ! 
Upon the Child he look'd. but through a Tear 
Of passionate Joy, and pay'd their Safetie's praise 
To Him^ whose Providence had in that wide 
Kingdom of Dangers to his Guides been Guide. 

143- 

And thus advancing to that City there, 

Sumam'd Hermopolis in compliment 

To ancient Hermes Lasting honor ; near 

That fiEdrly-tall religious Tree he went : 
The Natives call it Persea, and with high 
Esteem its Leaves and Apples magnify. 

144. 

Observe them well : each leaf presents the true 
Shape of a Tongue ; whose secret whispers treat 
With every Wind : the dangling Apples shew 
The feature of a panting Heart. O that 
The World woukl learn this lesson of the Trtit, 
That with the Tongue the Heart should Jaymid be / 

145. 

Blind Superstition's Rites had hallow'd it 

To /nV honor ; but the honest Tree 

Made bold that fond Relation to forget 

When thy great Spouse approach'd : for instantly 
With orthodox devotion pliant grown 
Low on the earth her bead she bow6d down. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



151 



14& 
Where she with all her hearts the Bdbt ador'd. 
And did her best with all her tongues to sound 
His praise, who is of hearts and tongues the Lord: 
Then having with her boughs dean swept the ground, 
She rose and gave him way ; yet out she stretch'd 
Her neck, and after him her arms she reach'd. 

147- 

When lo, as near the City gate he drew, 

Isis, (of stupid marble made, and there 

Fiz'd wisely on a Base which was as true 

And as divine a Stone as she ;) with fear 
And awe surprise, 'gan at first to quake 
And then to bend, and then right down to break. 

148. 
Poor Idol! who had never Sense till now, 
And now feels only her own ruin : down 
Tumbles the long-adorM Goddess Ccw; 
Resigning that high worship to her own 

True Lordt which she had long usurp&i by 

The help of Egypt s mad Idolatry. 

149. 
Her foir-spred Horns are shattered, bruis'd her brow, 
Her broken neck mix'd with her cnmibled feet : 
The Ddty advanc'd to Rubbish now 
Has power to help the Country, if in thick 
And mirey ways dlspos'd : which sure is more 
Assistance than it e'r could lend before. 

ISO. 

Thus when the reverend Ark of God was set 

In Dagoiis temple, down the Idol fell. 

And at the door too hasty out to get, 

Quite broke his Godship on the stronger Sell ; 
Where his amaz'd Devotos entring, found 
The wretch6d^M in its own ruins drown'd. 

151. 

But in the City's (and the People's) heart 

Upon a golden column mounted high 

And deck'd with all the wit and pride of Art 

Serapis stood ; the Ox of Majesty; 
Whose consecrated Crown about his wide 
And mighty Horns wreath'd its triumphant pride. 

152. 
Through that Piasia as these Pilgrims went 
Seeking their Inn, the guilty trembling Beast 
His steely knees and brasen body bent. 
And by his massy weight so strongly cast 
Himself down headlong, that into an heap 
Of fragments from bis Godhead he did leap. 

153. 
The dismal Crack of this strange ruin's thunder 
Alarm'd all Ears and Bosoms of the town ; 



Quite shattering their brittle souls in sunder, 
Who thought the next Call needs must be their own. 
For now alas it was their deepest dread 
That they themselves should like their God be made. 

154. 

But though blind They could not the truth descry. 

Wise Joseph and his virgin Consort knew 

To what more powerful Divinity 

The Idol his obeisance prostrate threw : 
What pointed but by Essay's Pen had been 
To entertain Faith's prospect, they had seen. 

155. 
There had they seen, how into Egypt^ on 
A speedy Cloud thy spouse should ride ; and how 
Th' ashamM Idols into dust should run 
From his dread Presence : and they plainly now 
Found that his \f other's bosom was the Cloud 
Where in his flight he pleas'd himself to shroud. 

156. 

Good Joseph therefore posted up and down 

The ruin of Idolatry to spread 

Through every populous superstitious Town 

Which deify'd the homid Statues : Sad 
And troubled was his righteous Soul to see 
That men should more than marble stupid be. 

»57. 

And wheresoe'r on Zeal's stout wings he flew 
Equal Success still bore him company : 
Th' infernal Spirits still their Lodgings threw 
In pieces, as thy mighty Lord drew nigh. 
Thou shalt no further go ; but I will tell 
Thee here, what Wonders afterward befell. 

1S8. 

The heart of Egypt melting down her breast, 

As from their Pillars her vain Gods had done ; 

The Priests and sage Magicians broke their rest 

To find this Prodigy's occasi9n : 
And all at common Council met one night, 
Resolv'd to try their Spell's profoundest might. 

159- 
Janues, a wretch both of his race and name 
Who vainly tugg'd with Moses' strength, began : 
'Twas in a vault where Day's looks never came ; 
A vault untroad by any mental Man 
Who was not full as black as they, and made 
Solemnly free of their aocursdd Trade. 

l6a 
The Door of Iron once, but now of Rust. 
With nine huge barrs he fortifies ; yet still 
Unwilling nine Securities to trust, 
Each barr he fastens with a cbarm^ Seal. 
Fond Wizsard 1 who by every one of them 
Either his fear lays open, or his shame. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO VIII. 



I6l. 

In thb deep Temple of Infernal Aru 

Ughting a Taper temper'd with the fat 

Which grew about his Predecessors' hearts, 

It in a dead Man's Mossy skoU he set 
The Misu and Stinclu long wrestlM with the flame 
Before the vault laid ope iu naked shame. 

162. 

Then gaping wide both with his mouth and eyes. 

He spew'd seav'n solemn Curses on Day-light; 

Which though it saw the hrolun DHHts, 

Would not detect what sacrilegious Might 
That ruin wrought : and then those Gods he blest 
Whose luck it was in gloomy holes to rest. 

163. 

For on a shrine sHlUMtanding there appear'd 

Strapis, /sis, and a anoaky rout 

Of lesser Gods : the altar was besmear'd 

With bloody gore ; and scatter'd round about 
In reaking fragments lay Cheeks, Noses, Eyes, 
Hearu, Shoulders, Livers, Legs, Arms, Bowds, 
Thighs. 

164. 

These hideous daindes was the break£sst for 

A Crocodile, whose sacred den was there ; 

But tam'd by strong enchantments, durst not stir 

When in their Magick bus'nesse's carreer 
The Priests were hot : no Monster but compar'd 
\^th raving Them, serene and mild appear'd. 

16$. 

The Walls with Luis and OmyoHs gamish'd were ; 

For courteous Egypt Gods had made of these. 

And from her well-dung'd soil reap'd every year 

A worthy Crop of young fresh Deities. 
MVk on the roof by Paint was taught to flow. 
That God whose bounty makes those other grow. 

166. 
But yamnes having now thrice wash'd his Hand 
And stain'd with it that Stygian Ink which stunk 
In his black Laver ; up he takes his Wandt 
That Wand which once liv'd on a cypress Ttunk 
Planted on Aehtron's bank, but now was made 
The deadly Scepter of their conjuring Trade. 

167. 
A Scepter unto which the Moon, the Sun, 
The Stars, had often stoop'd, and Nature bow'd : 
Oft had it tum'd the course of Phl^tton, 
Oft had it troubled Hell, and forc'd the proud 

Tyrant, for all his Iron Mace, to be 

Obedient to its wooden Witchery. 

168. 
With that a Ciide on the floor he draws 
(Spred thick with ashes stoU'n from fiineral piles) 



Whidi with strange Lines, and Hooks, and Forics, and 
Claws, 

And scramUing frantick shapeless shapes he fills : 
Wild Hieroglyphicks, stark-mad Chancters, 
A jumbled Rout of snari'd iUfinvor'd Jars. 

169. 
Into this hdl of scratches in step'd He 
(A seemly Actor for that scene,) and there 
Three groans he gave ; three times he bow'd his knee ; 
He thrice with bkxKi besprinkled his left ear ; 
Three thnes he mumbled over those profound 
Monsters his Wand had written on the ground. 

17a 
As oft he spit, as oft his lips he bit ; 
And every time chew'd suQen detestation 
And silent blasphemy against the great 
Monarch ofhtaiffn ; whose jealous indignation 

Of Rivai Pamirs made him suspect that He 

Was guilty of the Gods' Calamity. 

I7L 
Then lifting up his hollow voice, he cry'd. 
By yannss, Jamhns, (our renowndd ^res,) 
And PAaroh's adamantine Soul, which try'd 
A fall with Isrodfs God; by all those Fires 
We on your Altars kindled have, and them 
Whfeh with black Styx or Bredns miqgled swim. 

172. 
By these profound mysterious Notes which I 
Have figur'd here ; by dread Tisiphone; 
By stem AUcto, and Megtra; by 
Huge Cerberus his head's triplidty ; 

By Hell's wide Gates ; and by the most divine 

Scepters of Pluto and of Prostrfuu : 

173. 

By your own Heads, who here alone have your 

Safe sanctuary found : I you conjure 

Serapis, I sis, and each lesser Power, 

No longer your Dishonour to indure. 
What boots it here to be a standing God, 
And in Scorn's pubUck tj^/all damn airoadf 

174- 

For from Uermcpolis*s unfortunate gate 

Ruin advanc'd, and boldly made her prey 

On every Deity whose cursM fate 

It was to stand in her devouring way. 
Whence comes this Downfal of Religion? what 
Has spread amongst the Gods this deadly Rot ? 

175. 

Let me but know, and Heav'n 1 1 force to bow 

And kiss the feet of Hell : the Center I 

Will in the face of scornful Phthns throw 

And at high-noon with Midnight choak the sky : 
But 1 3rour Quarrel wiD revenge, and make 
Your secret theevish foe in public quake. 



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176. 
His mouth the coal-black foam here stoping, He 
With gredy ghastly foce. with staring eyes, 
With breast tormented by anxiety, 
With languid arms and hands, with quivering thighs ; 

Expects his mighty Charm's Result to see, 

And what his Oracle's Reply would be. 

177. 
When lo (for then thy Spouse was drawing nigh, 
That very place,) a groaning horror shak'd 
The mourning Vault, which was rebounded by 
So strong an earthquake, that the Idols crack'd. 
And by their prostrate fragments in the Cave 
Tum'd their ovm Temple to their fitter Grave. 

178. 

Scarcely had Jannes and his frighted Crew 

Time to escape the Ruin of their Gods : 

But being out, their Indignation threw 

Their Books away, and brake their fruitless Rods ; 
And having nothing else whereon to pour 
Their spight, their flesh they rent, their hair they tore. 

179. 
His secret Vengeance thus thy IWU Lord 
Sheath'd in the bowels of Idolatry; 
Whilst puzled Egypt felt the conquering Sword. 
Bat could not its mysterious Victor see. 

The Angel thus of old their PirsUhom slew. 

When undiscem^d through that Land he flew. 

180. 
Mean whOe fell Herod rack'd his busy brain 
About his Master-piece of Tyranny : 
The duU-ey'd Vulgar never could attain 
To read its Hatching and Nativity. 

For it was bread as low as hell : but I 

To thee will ope this blackest Mystery. 

181. 
Mischievous were that Prince's Counsels : but 
Proud Lmci/er had deeper plou than He, 
More Jealous of his Crown than Herod, at 
The new-bom Kin^s high-fiun'd Discovery : 
For in his ears the Shepherds Story rung. 
And that stronge musick of the Christmas Song. 

182. 
The angry mouth of thunder never spoke 
Such terror to his Soul as those soft Notes ; 
Which tun'd to Joy's mild key, divinely broke 
Out from the nests of those sweet Angels" throats. 
Nor was this Omen all : for he had spy'd 
That eastern Star, the Wisew^en's wiser Guide. 

183. 

No light did ever fright him so, but that 

Whose Darts down headlong shot him from the top 

46 



Of heav'n's sublimest pinnade, and shut 
Him up in deepest Night ; that danmM shop, 
Where 'twas his trade Sin's cheating Wares to sell 
To those who with thir Souls would purchase hell. 

184. 

But now he fear'd this trade would never thrive. 

And that few Chapmen would delight to buy. 

So long as that great Infant was alive ; 

With whose more profitable Deity 
Shepherds and Kings to traffick had begun* 
And taught the World which way for Gains to run. 

185. 

Especially since his dear Egypt now 

Was likely to revolt, and pay no longer 

Homage to any gilded Ox or Com : 

Since valiant Jannes yielding to a stronger 
Charm than his o¥m, had forfeited the fame 
Of Hdl, and quite betray^ MagicKs name. 

186. 

Ten thousand spawns of his perplexed brain 

He tumbles o'r. yet none could please his eye ; 

Again he chooses and dislikes again ; 

But vows at last howe'r, thy Spouse shall die. 
He vows by his own head, and seeks some Fiend 
To whom the desperate woric he might conmiend. 

187. 

A Rock there stands on dire Cocytus's bank 
Which to the River opes its monstrous Jaws, 
Content to suck no breath but what the rank 
And sulphury Vapour of that water throws 

Into its Mouth ; which far more venomous makes 
The steaming Poisons that from thence it takes. 

188. 
In winding holes and ragged comers there 
Whole Families of Adders, Vipers, Snakes, 
Asps, Basilisks, and Dragons dwelling are ; 
Whose constant and confounding Hissing makes 
The language of that Mouth dreadfully tell 
What Prodigies in Hell redouble HelL 

189. 
The Throat sticks thick with bones of legs and arms. 
Which ravenous Haste left stinking by the way. 
The Stomack (Murder's Sink and Dungeon) swarms 
With heaps on which Digestion could not prey : 

At whose unfadomable Bottom reaks 

Young guiltless Blood in Vengeance-daring Lakes. 

19a 
But at the Cavern where the Heart should lie 
Was hung a sevenfold Gate of massy brass. 
Plated with Adamant, and conjur'd by 
A thousand bolts and locks, to let no cross 
Mischance peep in ; besides, as many Seals 
Treading on one another's crowded heels. 

U 



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CANTO VIII. 



191. 

High in the Tower above, at windows dose 
Lattis'd with Sted* stood Lymxa night and day : 
An hundred Degs lay at the thieshold. whose 
QuidE can no Sleep ooold ever steal away. 

Next them as many Cocks; and next to these 

A vigilant Company of trusty Gta§, 

192. 

Within Inrk'd dark Meanders, dammM ap 
By frequent doors, and Porters too, whose chief 
Office it was to keep them lock'd. and stop 
Ev'n Thtmgki it self from playing there the thief. 
Their lighu they oft put out, for fear some sly 
And cunning Beam a cranny might espy. 

193. 
The Walls were cirded by a mighty Moat, 
The Palace iar from Danger to divide : 
No bridge it knew, and but one single Boat 
In which no more than one at once could ride ; 
And this the timorous Shores dose Prisoner was. 
Under a chain of sted and lock of brass. 

194. 
On all whidi Shore in due array were set 
With weapons ready drawn, three careful Waickts, 
That no Disturhanct might presume to put 
Ito finger forth, or touch the jealous Latches : 
For with a loud alarm they roused were 
If but the Image of a Noiu came there. 

195. 

But in that House, so dark and so profound. 
That fair and high it made the rest of Hell ; 
A Thing O how much more than Monster, drown'd 
Yet deeper in sdf-torturings, chose to dwdl. 
One who espous'd Disquiet for her Rest, 
One who aUfunts is to her own breasL 

196. 

Suspicion 's her Just name ; thick set 's her head 
With thoughtful Eyes, which always learing seem. 
And alwa3rs ghastly ; for they trust no Lid 
To interpose twist Lassitude and them. 
On siup they look as on some treacherous thing 
Hatching blind Dangers under his black wing. 

197. 
But prindpally they at one another 
Their anxious and misgiving glances throw ; 
And if no grounds of fear they thence can gather. 
Of deeper Dangers therefore fearful grow. 
Yet whilst they all thus mutually stare, 
Each bids his brother of himself beware. 

198, 
Her sharp thin ears stand always prick'd opiigfat 
To catch all Sounds and WhispeB that come near. 



Sometimes as her own Fancy took iu flight 
But through her head, she thought some Noise was there. 
Her hoUow Cheeks had gapM long for meat. 
But doubts and fiean forbad her still to eaL 

199. 

She dream'd in every Dish and Cup she saw 

Some sUe and deadly Poison's Ambushment. 

Alas, and how could any venome grow 

So venooaous as she, who might have lent 
New power to Dragons' stings, and taught each field 
Of TJUssaly crops of surer bane to yidd. 

20a 

Impenetrable Steel her Garments were. 

All of the temper of great Satan's shidd : 

Her hands allarmM by perpetual fear 

A mighty Sword and brazen Buckler hdd : 
Weapons with which she never durst intend 
To fight, but only her own head defend. 

201. 

Fast stood her Chair on forty iron feet. 

And to the ground all double nail'd ; yet she 

Could not believe but underneath her seat 

Some treasonable Mine might lurking be. 
This made her sddom sit ; and when she did. 
Over her shoulder still she tura'd her head. 

202. 

No morning pass'd but some on work she set 
New Keys to make her ; being jealous still 
Her foes might patterns of her old ones get ; 
And twenty times as much she chang'd her Seal : 

As her own self she would have done, had she 

Known how to alter her Deformity. 

203. 

With contradicting thoughts her brain was beat, 
Which were no sooner liked but rejected : 
She wdgh'd and boulted every Counsel, yet 
What surest seem'd to be she most suspected. 

Oft would she skip, and fling about, and start, 

And meerly at the motion of her heart. 

204. 

Ten times an hour her Pulse she duly try^d. 
Doubting as often what its working ment : 
Sometimes she thought she felt too high a Tide. 
Sometimes too low an Ebb of blood : Content 

She never was, yet sought no Physick's aid. 

Of Sickness and of Cure alike afraid. 

205. 
An Oath of strict Allegiance thrice a day 
She forcM on her numerous Family ; 
And weekly chang'd their Ofiices, that they 
Might have no time to ripen Treachery. 

Strange Officers, yet fitting to attend 

So sovereignly-odious a Fi*nd^ 



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206. 
The fixst was tali and big-bon'd CowardtMt 
Whose lazy Neck on her &t shoulders lay ; 
Her gross head screen'd by both her hands ; her eyes 
Honibly winking, at the dint of Day ; 

Her ears as flat as dread could lay its prize ; 

Her sneaking tail hid 'twixt her shivering thighs. 

207. 

The next, stem Cruelty supported by 

Advantage and Revenge; prime Enginere 

To all the Generals of Tyranny. 

What Whips, what Racks, her fell Inventions were, 
What broad Perfidiousness, what groundless Wars, 
What Insultations, and what Massacres I 

208. 

Close in the comer stood pale Thought/ulness, 
Seald on whose lips regardless Silence sate : 
Her business was a thousand things to guess ; 
She stamp'd. her head she scratched, her breast she beat, 
Her wearied eyes she nail6d to the ground, 
And in her endless self her self she drown'd. 

209. 
About the room ran furious Discontent, 
And when all other scap'd her causeless war. 
She WRg'd it with her self ; her doaths she rent, 
Her cheeks she gash'd, and madly tore her hair. 
But Malice slyly crept, and dealt her spigfat 
To friends and foes in a conceal^ fight. 

210. 

Yet slippery Guile was nimbler then the rest. 

Whose quaint attire was of Chamelions' skins ; 

Who in two minutes could become at least 

An hundred Virtues, and as many Sins : 
She Potyfus in feet outvy'd, and was 
Fprtune's true Echo, Proteus' Looking-glass. 

211. 

Her mate was complemeatal>Ciz//l(r|r, 

Whose mouth's rich mine bred more than golden words ; 

Her hand she alwajrs kiss'd, and bent her knee, 

Whilst in her mantle lurk'd two pois'ned swords. 
These were the courtiers, and of their condition 
A thousand more who waited on Susfuiom, 

212. 

.When Lucifer had rakM many Dens 

And found no fury who so furious was 

As his new-bra'd Design ; at last he runs 

To this foul sink : where when his sulphury £Eioe 
The flashing Tokens of his presence threw, 
The rou26d Grot its awful Sultan knew. 

213. 
The Boat flew from its chain to meet his feet. 
And waft him over to the /rwy Watek; 



Whose swords fell down, whose hands went up, to greet 
Their Sovereign's coming and to draw the latch. 
Sus^ion started as they op'd the door, 
Wondring her Mastifi& barkM not before. 

214. 
But dread and awe had stopp'd their mouths ; as now 
They sealed Hers, to see grim Lucifer: 
She fear'd the worst, and thought that in his brow 
She read some deep-writ lines of spight to her. 
But from his fece he wip'd the fire and smoke, 
And with a Kiss's preface, thus he spoke. 

215. 
Madam, be not afraid, for well I know 
My friends, and thee as best of them esteem ; 
Witness that precious trust my love will now 
Treasure in thee ; it is my Diadem : 

My Diadem is lost if thou dost not 

lYocure Destraction to Mary's Brat. 

216. 

Herod will do his best, I ken him well. 

If aided by thy desperate Inspiration : 

There's not a heart that lives, where more of Hell 

Hath taken up its earthly habitation. 
O had I store of such Viceroys as He 
To rule my Earth, how Heav'n would baffled be I 

217. 

Yet Herod 's but a Man ; and should he stand 

On foolish points of nice Humanity, 

That Brat, by being such, might scape his hand. 

But if his strength with thine thou backest. He 
Will quickly grow most salvagely complete, 
And brnvely venture on the barbarous feat, 

218. 
Nor need'st thou any Maid but Cruelty 
To dress thy Project ; take her then and go : 
Fetch but that Baby-GoSs heartblood for me. 
And with a Crown I '1 raise thy worthy brow, 
Mounting thee on an everburning throne 
Where thou shalt reign Queen of Perdition. 

219. 
Glad was the Hogg to hear the business, and 
Pvomis'd her Lord all develish £uth and care : 
Who clapping on her head his sooty hand, 
Cry'd, take Hell's blessing with thee ; O my Dear 
Success attend thy Loyalty, and may 
Heav'n's envious Tyrant not disturb thy way. 

22a 

Forthwith her path through Aspkaliitds Lake 

She tore, and in the middle boyl^d up : 

The sulphure trembled, and the banks did shake, 

Down to the bottom fled the frighted top ; 
That most victorious Stink which till to day 
Dwelt there, her stronger Breath blew quite away. 



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CANTO VIII. 



231. 

Deq> Horror all the Elements did seise, 

And taught the rest, as well as Earth, to qnake. 

BlasHtig deflour'd the Meadows and the Trees ; 

Her noise made Ghosts of thousand Witches wake. 
Ill-boding Nigfatrav'ns croke, shrill Scritchowls squeak. 
Hogs whine, dogs houl. Snakes hiss, and mandrakes 
shriek. 

223. 
Men. BeasU, and Birds fled finom her frigfatfiil iaoe ; 
And Heav'n it sdf would foin have ran away 
Had it but known to what retiring place 
Its now too vast Expansions to convey. 

Yet Pktdms made a shift to birk and croqd 

His eyes behind the curtain of a doud. 

223. 

But when she maik'd how NtUurt lear'd her kxdc, 

So to be seen she was as much afinald ; 

For in Invisibilitie's sly doke 

Stealing to HtrotTs Court (where Can had laid 
The Tyrant Cut asleep) into his breast 
Her Consort and her damnM self she thrust. 

224. 
As when a viper sqneas'd into his wine 
By TVmjm'j hand deceives an heedless King, 
About his Soul the poison's powers twine, 
And with a war of Pangs his entrails wring : 
So did these MomsUrs with tempestuous smart 
Rage in the bowels of fell Horod's heart. 

225. 
Dark dreadiiil fimdes, and self-thwarting Cares 
Worry'd his breast, and cbas'd sleep from his eyes : 
For up he starts, his gresly beard he tears. 
And round about his chamber cursing flies : 
He curs'd himself, and Heav'n, and all iu Stars, 
But chiefly that which pointed out his fears. 

226. 
Squander'd have I, said he, my time till now 
On petty bus'ness, whilst my Crown and Head 
Lie at the stake I have I let treason grow 
And gather strength, upon my Life to tread ! 
Fy Herodt fy 1 wert thou that wary He 
Whom/iiPM extoll'd for sharp«y'd Policy. 

227. 
What stupor made thee suffer those bold Kings 
Who blax'd the Birth of that Jtsstan Primal 
To prate in SaUm of such dangerous things ? 
Hadst thou not fire and sword to chase them thence ? 
Could not that flaming Steel have shinM fas 
More potently than their enchanting Star, 

228. 
And could thy Kingdom, and thy larger wit 
With other Messengers not furnish thee. 



Whose loyal Crudty might have been fit 
To bear a death-designing Embassy ; 

But on thy errand thou thy foes must send ; 

And whibt thou hat'st thy Hival, him befriend? 

329. 

Bat due to thee is tms^furys sting 
For trusting their bare word for their Return. 
Ar't Horod still, both Crafts' and Jtwrus* King, 
Who by thy Brain didst for thy Temples earn 
The Crown they ware ! and canst thou cosen'd be 
By three old doting Men's poor subtility ! 

230. 

See now how well thy credulous Courtesy 

Repays is : Those Kings the News have spread 

Through all the Regions of wide Araby; 

Which joyn'd in Zeal's bold League, have made an head 

To tear fool'd Herod from his throne, and set 

That Infant, as a wiser Prince, on it. 

231. 
Me thinks I smell the Battel drawing near. 
And Ven^asue aiming at my cardess Brain ; 
Me thinks the thunder of their Arms I hear, 
And see the Lightning flashing on the plain ; 
Loud in mine ears, me thinks, the name doth ring, 
The shouted Name, of IsrtuTs newborn King. 

232. 

The Priests* fidsdiearted pack will strait comply 

With those new Powers against despisM Me ; 

And triumph that thdr reverend Prvfiesy 

In my dethroning they fulfilled see. 
My Iduwuan Stock too well they know. 
And much ado I had to make them bow. 

333. 

As for the giddy MuiHtnds, whom I 

Have squeas'd with my oppressing Taxes' load ; 

All change to them will seem felidty. 

But most, if baited with the Name of God. 
And when Religion calls to Innovation* 
What banks can curb a ^tt/sr /nificdishMi / 

234- 

Tki CanUy tki Canu, however causeless, will 

Fire them to such a prodigality 

Ev'n of their blood, that they thdr lives will sf/Ol 

In hopes that Dying, yet they shall not die ; 
And turning Superstition's maddest slaves. 
Trust They shall prove immortal in their Graves. 

235. 
My Nobles all will this advantage take 
Longing to serve some gentler Prince than I ; 
Good Lands have They to loose, for whose dear sake 
Bidding farewel to costly Loyalty, 

They '1 to the stronger Eastern Armies run. 

And idolise with them the Hising Sun. 



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iS7 



236. 
TIs true. J/eat/m *s over all; but I confess 
'T has often vez'd me that it should be so ; 
And sinoe my stomach thus against it rise, 
What hopes firom thence of friendly succours to 
Distressed Herod/ No the case is plain : 
Write kim/brjbe, oh whom y* have tkroum Disdain, 

237. 

Much Gold, I giant, I on the Temple spent ; 

But in devotion solely to my own 

Ador6d Ends ; (the only true Intent 

Of Pblitidans' seal : ) And well 'tis known. 
For all my mask of Jewish Piety, 
My aim was always mine own God to be. 

238, 

None have I left to trust, but only Thee, 
O thou my high, and once heroidc Heart 1 
Why may not some Exploit of Cruelty 
Above evample reis'd, forceySUIr to start 7 
Why may not Heroes Sword cut out that leaf 
Of DesHny which has enroU'd his Giief. 

239- 
It must, and shall be so : I will not own 
A Tyrants Name for nothing. Let the Head 
Of Cesar wear the Woild's Imperial Orown 
With love and gentleness embellished : 
It shall my manly dory be, to write 
Sovereign of Rage, and Bmperour ofspight, 

240. 
And let Heaifn*s Monarch thank himself, if I 
Torment him with a stronger Sin than yet 
Earth in his scorned iace eV taught to fly. 
Who bid Him wake my fears? who bid him set 
An ominous Conui to outstare my Rest, 
And light If^ar^/Joumy hither from the East? 

241. 

From two years old, and under, every Brat 

That sucks in Bethlehem, and its confines, breath. 

Upon the altar of my royal Hate 

Shan sacrificed be : and if no Death 
Amongst all those can find my BivoTs heart. 
Then let him scape ; I shall have done my part. 

242. 
But sure it cannot miss : and then I wonder, 
What can the vain Arabian forces do 1 
If their foundation once be split in sunder, 
Their Building needs must stoop to ruin too. 
If I their Infant in his bud can crop. 
Surely the dangerous Weed will ne'r grow up. 

243. 
Twill never grow to taint the Puadise 
Of my CanUnt: which cheer'd and froned by 



This hostile bkx>d, may venture to despise 
Earth's strongest cunningest Conspiracy ; 

Afid laugh at frustrate Heav'n ; no Star firom whence 

Shall dasel any more my Confidence. 

244. 
This said ; he nods his special Secretary; 
(An Engine rarely qualify'd to stand 
At fiercest Satan's elbow,) who right menry 
To hear his barbarous Sovereign's sad Command, 

The black Commission writ, which was to be 

In blood transcribed by the Soldiery. 

245. 

For Iferod kept an armed Crew, which He 

With cruel care and cost had pick'd and chose 

From Idumea, Scythia, Barbary; 

Men ruder than their Homes ; professed foes 
To all humanity ; their looks of Brass, 
Their hands of steel their heart of marble was. 

246. 
As piactis'd TIgres in the Theatre 
Let loose to their own keen and himgry spigbt. 
With dreadfril joy haste to their wished War ; 
Where with their murderous looks the slaves they fright 
Out of their lives, then with their teeth they tear 
And slay again what first they kiU'd by fear. 

247. 
These bloodier Cayti^ so to Bethlehem ran 
With swords and faulchtons arm'd, and with their more 
Inhumane weapon, their Commission, 
Counting Delay their torture : with a Roar 
The Town they enter'd, which alarming Thunder 
With Dread smote all the People's hearts in sunder. 

248. 
Strait In the Name of awful Herod they 
Proclaim'd their office was, a List to take 
Of all the Infants which from such a Day 
In Bethlehem and its coasts were bom ; for lack 

Of punctual appearance, threatning voath 

To every Mother, to each Infrmt death. 

249. 

These Summons through the Town and Country flew ; 

And when the next Day's Sun had reach'd his height 

Into the Market every Mother drew. 

Who in her bosom lagg'd her sucking weight : 
A sight which might all Beasts unbarbarize. 
Yet mov'd no pity in these Soldier^ eyes : 

250. 
Who guards at every comer having set. 
With all extremities of salvage mge 
Their monstrous Chaige in execution put. 
Great Titan's eye ne'r yet beheld a stage 

So red with Tragedies, nor Hell set forth 

In Pageants so portentuous on earth. 



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CANTO VIII. 



351. 

In vain th« lamentable Mothen* Cries, 
And Tean, and Prayers, and shrill Expostulations, 
Miz'd with their In&nta' shrieks ; in vain the sUes 
And stones they rent with ruful Exctamatioot. 
For still the unrelenting SoUurs* ear 
Nothing bat Htro^t fell Comntand would hear. 

252. 

Their preys they by the arm, or leg, or head, 

From their soft native Sanctuaries tore ; 

Whose blood as fai that bartiarous strife they shed. 

They daub'd the Mothers with the Children's gore ; 
And in their fisce their bowels threw, and sware. 
And curs'd, and hoUow*d, and amas'd the air. 

ass- 
The Townsmen, who this Massacre beheld 
Could lend no aid to Babes' or Mothers' Cry ; 
By stiff astonishment some being kill*d. 
Others by cruel fear inforc'd to fly ; 
Not knowing but the Soldiers' dire Commissum 
Might add the Fathers to the Child's perdition. 

254. 

Here Sarah kiss'd an arm, Rebecca there 

A leg ; all that was left of cither's Son : 

RackiTs impatient lamentation here 

Defy'd all powers of Consolation, 
She having but two mangled hands to show 
Of those sweet Twins which suck'd her breast but now. 

255. 
Thus this most harmless flock of tender Lambs 
An heap of fragments suddenly t)ecame ; 
Their milky fleeces, and their whiter Names 
Being dyed deep in ruby Martyrdom. 

Thus fruitful Rama now made childless, mooni'd ; 

Thus all the Market was to shambles tum'd. 

256. 
One Nurse was there, who when the Soldier caught 
Her precious Charge's throat, cry'd out. Beware, 
'Tis Herod s, Herod s Son ; and if you doubt, 
An hundred Wimesses are ready here. 
She cry'd ; but e'r sh' had pronounc'd that word. 
The Infant's heart was bleeding on the sword. 

357. 
Talk not of Herods Son, but Herods WiU, 
Reply'd the Ruffian : though your tale were tnie. 
And no fond tender-hearted Lye ; yet still 
This wound to that babe's heart I 'm sure was due. 
The AVv shall answer't : 'tis sufficient that 
He knows why He his Son excepted not. 

258. 
Thus provident Veitgiaiue met the Tyrant in 
The forefront of his Crime, whilst blinded by 



His hasty feais, his fury he began 

At his own bowels : Herod's Son must die, 

And Heav'm's escape, although for Him the Net 

Of that wide-spred Deshmcium was set 

259- 

And this, when/riiM at Rowu the Slaughter toll'd 

And Cesar's car with Just amasement fiU'd ; 

Made him cry out, O how mudi rather would 

I be the Hog oi Herod than the Child. 
But Cesar dream'd not what that Infant gain'd. 
Nor that more than himself thenceforth he reign'd. 

a6a 
These roseal Buds of early Martyrdom 
Transplanted were to Paradise; and there 
Beyond the reach of Herods rage, became 
Fiawers of BUmal bUss, whose Temples are 
Imbrac'd with crowns of joy, whose hands with palms, 
Whose eyes with beams, whose tongues are fill'd with 
Psalms. 

261. 
Nor do they only live and flourish there. 
But gloriously verdant are below : 
For in the Church's sacred Garden, where 
In FesHvafs fair bed's Remowm doth grow. 
Their annual Memory revives, and in 
December's whitest frost is fresh and green. 

262. 
But when the Bloodhounds back to Herod went. 
And brandish'd on their stainM Swords the sign 
Of their own guilt : the sight with high content 
Tickled their Sovereign's hopes that his divine 

Rival was now dispatch'd, and that his Crown 

In spight of all Arabia was his own. 

263. 

Yet sure to make *t (for in damn'd Tytius* breast 
More restlessly his Vulture ne'r could knaw 
Than torturing Doubts in Tyranu' bosoms feast :) 
The Jews he summons by a rigid Law 
Without the least exception to swear 
Allegiance both to Him and to his Heir. 

264. 

Alas he little thought his slaughter'd Son 

Was now a stronger foe than all the Bands 

Of Araby, his own Suspition 

Had arm'd against himself ; or that his hands 
And brains were both too weak to stand a 6ght 
With Bethlehem's massacred /n/iiut/ Might. 

265. 

For now their Blood to righteous Heatfn sent up 

A k>uder Cry than their sad Mother^ Moan : 

Nor doth the great Creator's Justice ope 

A readyer ear to any PlaintifTs Groan, 
Than unto this ; Though sun Mortality 
On Mam attemds. Mam's Blood cam mevor die. 



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CANTO VIIL 



PSYCHE: OR LOVERS MYSTERY. 



159 



266. 

Next neighbour to the Dead Sea's pols'nous shore 
Fiowneth a gloomy Grove, where cheerly Day 
Could ne'r find room to shew her &ce, such store 
Of Cypress, Box, and Yew, damm'd up her way ; 
Whose Hotal boughs unpeopled were with fowles 
Of nature sutable, Batts. Ravens, and Owles. 

267. 
Besides, a Mist of Stincks makes bold to stick 
Close on the wretchM Air. and her defloure ; 
Unwholsome Vapours gathering black and thick 
Drop mom and even into a venomous show'r ; 
Which by the womb of that adulterous Earth 
Drunk up, briogs bastard Weeds and Poisons forth. 

268. 
Amidst these dismal shades, is sunk a Grot 
Through whose black door pass endless Cries and 

Groans; 
In mourning curtains all the Windows shut 
Their joyless eyes ; the Walls lament ; the Stones 
Hang thick with tears, and their compassion to 
Their Habitation's doleful Gemitu show. 

269. 

The Mistress of the house her weary bed 
Perpetually loads ; which hedg'd about 
With melanchoUck screens, aforehand led 
Her thoughts in to her gxave, and nearer brought 

Her Coffin's blackness to her mind, though it 

Already by her oouche's side was set. 

270. 
Her Pillows were of softest Down, but yet 
On churlish thorns and stones she seem'd to lie : 
Oft did she toss, and turn, and tumble, but 
Could never shift her sturdy Grief ; which by 
That Motion only vrakened was the more. 
And made her Weakness stronger than before. 

271. 
Wild Hemicranies ng&d in her head ; 
A desperate Qoinsey choked up her throat ; 
The tawny Jaundise in her eyes was spread ; 
Strange arrows through her jaws the Toothach shot ; 

Stark raving Madness sate upon her tongue ; 

Ten thousand Cramps her shrivell'd body wrtmg. 

272. 
The Fever, Pleurisy, Collick, Strangury 
Gout, Apoplexy, Scurvy, Pestilence, 
Stone, Rupture, Phthisick, Dropsy, Tympany, 
Fhix, Surfeit, Asthma, and the confluence 
Of all divided Deaths, united were 
In one sad Mass, and leam'd to live in her. 

273. 
The odious Scab, the everknawing Itch, 
The stinging Bile, the wasting Leprosy, 



The baneful Pocks, the Wolf and Canker (which 

FatnM on her their dreadful Luxury) 
Conspir'd with every sort of boiling Sore 
To doth her round with most infectious Gore. 

274. 
Pots, Papers, Glasses, sweet and stinking Things, 
Were marshall'd on a Cupboard standing by ; 
Which Artists brought to mitigate her pangs. 
Or work some cure on their own Poverty. 
Costly Additions unto pain were these. 
And only eas'd her Purse's Pleurisies. 

275. 
For though full many a dear Doctor there 
Talk'd words as strange as her Diseases, yet 
Her pertinacious Torments would not hear 
Either their Drugs of Nature or of Wit, 

Or mind their stories, or regard at all 

Their Oracles out of the UrinaL 

276, 
Her whining Kindred round besieg'd her bed, 
And though alas her case were too too plain, 
With tedious love still ask'd her How sJU did. 
Heaping that Crambe on her other pain : 

Their fond Remembrances would never let 

Her any one of all her Woes forget. 

277. 

Down to this loathsome SAe, stem yustiu came ; 

Tall was her Person and her Looks as high ; 

Strength in her martial sinews made its home ; 

Daru of keen fire stream'd out from either eye ; 
For Men at length that She has eyes will find : 
Alas Earth's Justice and not Heavn's is blind. 

278. 
Her right hand rul'd a sword of two-edg'd flame, 
Her left a Ballanoe ; in one scale was thrown 
A mighty Mass inscrib'd with Herod s Name, 
A Mass of Pride and Blood, which press'd it down 
To gaping Hell ; the other hover'd high 
Bubbling with light and vain Vacuity. 

279. 
When Sickmss spy'd (so nam^ was the Elf) 
Her sovereign Queen, she rais'd her heavy bttd. 
And to obeysance foro'd her crasy self : 
Forthwith black streams of vexM Poison fled 
Out from her sores, and with outrageous stink 
Ran down into her bed's contagious sink. 

28a 
But as her boiling lips she op'd (firom whence 
A cloud of steaming Plagues broke with her breath, ) 
To ask what cause brought her immortal Prince 
Down to this baneful Porch of cruel death : 

Talk not said Justice, but get up and dress ; 

My bus'ness now for speedyest speed doth press. 



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CANTO vni. 



381. 

Though w«ak thou art, yet thou canst potent prove 
Whene'r on Mischiefs errand thou art sent : 
Time was when thou a tedious way didst rove 
Invidious HtU and Satan to content ; 
' Though bold Usurpers they : and sure't will thee 
Befit to do as much for Htav'n and Me. 

283. 
Into the land of Umm They made thee trudge, 
And poure the bottom of thy worst despight 
Upon the best of Men, if Htatfn can Judge 
Of pure celestial Sanctity aright 
More beautiful was Job in Heav*n*s esteem 
Than thou to Earth didst make him horrid seem. 

283. 
He beap'd this Scale as fiill of Viriui, as 
Fell Htrod has replenish'd it with Vict: 
That other, which mounts up so lightly, was 
His score of Slips, his empty VaniUes, 
Thin as the Air ; which though sometimes it be 
Dusky with clouds, regains iu purity. 

284. 
See, see thou reoompenoe that Injury 
By righteous Vengeance upon Herod; here 
My leave unbridles thy Extremity 
To run in fuU and uncontroll'd carreer. 
Run then, and make the Tyrant feel that now 
The Mistress of his health and life art Thou. 

285. 
So spake the Quan 0/ everlasting Dread, 
And in her black Cloud mounted home again. 
When Sickness leaping from her nasty bed, 
And in fierce haste forgetting her own pain, 
Fumish'd her self with every choisest sting 
To execute the now condemn^ ICing, 

286. 
Then to her gloomy Chariot she went, 
A Chariot framed of a pois'nous Steam : 
Her Speed was headlong, so was her Intent. 
And soon to Herod's royal Den she came : 
By no slowpacM Coursers thether drawn, 
But by a pestilential Tempest blown. 

287. 
Unseen she came, and with such cunning guided 
Her stealing Chariot's silent wheels, that she 
Quite down the Tyrant's throat as slyly glided 
As do's his unsuspected Breath, which he 
Lets in to Ian his heart : and thus, alas. 
He swallow'd what his own Devourer was. 

288. 
For now the Pnrys work it was to fry 
His bkick soul in the fiimaoe of his breast ; 



Forthwith his entrails sing'd and scalded by 

An hidden fire, frighted away his Rest : 
He'd frdn have risen, but he felt his Pains 
Had mix'd with their light firebrand's heavy Chains. 

289. 

His strength deceives him, and his bed remains 

His only Throne, where he the worthy King 

Of mighty Tormeou miserably reigns ; 

For flaming Pangs his ulcer'd bowels wring. 
And Water swelling underneath his skin 
Adds soofling torture to the fire widiin. 

290. 

His shameJul Parts become more odious by 
Right down Corruptum, which proves fertile there 
With monstrous Vermin ; whose impatient fry 
In righteous rage their Prey aforehand tear ; 
The leisure of his grave they scorn to stay, 
But undermine his heart, and eat their way. 

291. 
And yet a deadlyer Worm than those was got 
Thither before, his Consdenoe deeply knawing : 
To stifle which he long had struggled, but 
The trusty Torment more resolviM growing 
Woun'd round about his guilty soul so dose 
That no Invention's power could get it loose. 

29a. 

His Sinews shrunk and all his Joints forgot 
The ready service of their wonted motions. 
The Air, which he had long defil'd, would not 
Wait on his Lungs ; but frequent Suffocations 
Forc'd hhn to pay those Deaths for which his great 
Riot in Blood had ran him deep in debt 

293. 

His Friends he often call'd ; but ndther they 
Nor his Physitians durst come near his bed : 
For his hell-breathiqg stink damm'd up the way 
To Physick and to friendship. Never did 
Damn'd Dives more for Pitie's influence cry. 
Nor find less drop down on his Misery. 

294. 
The dismal Scene of Bethlehem-slanghter now 
Displayed was before his burning soul ; 
The Mother^ s Fright with greater Dread he saw. 
And felt the Blood of all the InfcmU rowl 

Into bis bosom in a violent stream ; 

Yet not to quench, but higher raise the flame. 

295. 
An hundred Furies at hot contestation 
He spies, which first should sdse his bk>ody heart ; 
And Hdl's wide mouth, and mighty Preparation 
To entertain him with most sumptuous Smart ; 
He hears all Ages poure whole seas of shame 
And cursing detestations on his Name. 



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CANTO vin. 



PSYCHE: OR LOV£:S MYSTERY. 



i6i 



396. 
And what shall now tormented Herod do? 
To Heav'n he will not, and he cannot sue» 
Since he had giv'n tuch proud Defiance to 
That God, whose Son in his desires he slew : 
And since the World below abhors him too. 
He 'gins to hate himself, and love his Woe. 

297. 
IngnlfiM deep in this dire Agony, 
He wildly gives the reins to Des^eraium : 
And now resolv'd in spight of life to die, 
Contrives how he may his own murder fashion. 
And once at least be righteously cruel, 
Making himself his Tyrannie's last fuel 

298. 

He thought of Poison ; but could move no friend 

To lend him that destrpTing Courtesy. 

Besides ; he fear'd no Venome durst contend 

With his all-bane>truiscending Malady. 
At length, by wofrd fortune, he espy'd 
His fiuikhion hanging by his couche's side. 

299. 
Whidi as he snatcfa'd, a venturous P&ge ran in 
And stopp'd the stroak ; but could not stop his throat, 
Which strait he opened to a broader Sin, 
And in the 6ce of Heav'n spew'd out his hot 
Impatient blasphemies : with which, he threw 
His curses upon all the World he knew. 

300. 
Mean while to prison, where his Son in chains 
The Tyrant kept, his Death's fialse news was spread ; 
Which whilst AnHfater gladly entertains. 
His smiles became the forfeit of his head. 
Twas basely told to Herod; who in mad 
Spight shows that Worms his bowels eaten had. 

301. 

Yet Shan that Villain know that I, said He. 

Have life and rage enough him to destroy : 

Now by these dying spirits, which pant in me, 

I swear his life shall answer for his joy. 
Fetdi me his head, that with these Vermin here 
Tbeh: FeDow-Traytor I all torn may tear, 

y>2. 
Their FeUow-Tteytor, and their Fellow-Son, 
For from my body sprung both He and They ; 
Nor breeds thefar knawing more vexation 
To genooos Herodt than his Smiles : away, 
Fetch me his head, that having Uess'd mine eye 
With that Revenge, I may the cbearlyer die. 

303. 
Yet not content with this sole Sacrifioe 
To his vast fnrjr ; be a way contrives 

46 



How all his Nobles to his Obsequies 
By sudden massacre might pay their lives : 
That so his Hearse might foUow'd be with tears 
If not for his own sake, at least for theirs. 

304. 
But Heav'n prevented this fell Plot ; and He 
Now having five days liv'd, and felt his death. 
In stead of Prayers, his wonted Blasphemy 
Repeated, and blew out his final breath. 
So ag6d Dragons, when their Spirits flit, 
Breathe their last poison, and their Life with it. 

305. 
When at his Coming, lo, th' infernal Pit 
Was mov'd ; where every damn^ Prince arose 
From his sulphureous throne of pangs, and met 
This more deserving Tyrant^ unto whose 

Incomparable Salvageness they knew 

DamnaHom'i Prerogative was due. 

306. 
Hell had his Soul no sooner swallowed, 
But pious Joseph's Guardian hither came ; 
To whom, reposM on his sober bed. 
The mighty News he painted in a Dream ; 
Bidding him now return to Jewry ^ where 
The storm was over, and the coast grown clear. 

307. 
The Angtl thus at once both justify'd 
His own word, and the Prophets Vision ; 
For great Hosea. had of old descry'd 
That out of Egypt God would call his Som. 
Joseph awakes, and strait to Mary shews 
The long-eicpected. and now wdoome News. 

308. 

Then packing up his thrifty household-Stuff, 

And tenderly Providing for his dear 

And double Charge; he shakes Doubts counsells off, 

And scorning all objections oi/Mr, 
In humble Faith's assure valor sets 
Onward his way before the Day permits. 

309- 
For now the Mom lay long before she rose. 
And dull Aquarius made it kte e'r he 
Would wake the Sun : thus did thy hardy Spouse 
Take his long joumy when the Day we see 
Is short and sad ; to teach Thee what to do 
At any time when Heav'n shaU bid thee go. 

310- 
This l^Hnter was the ninth which seal'd the Earth 
With Ice, and covert his seal with Snow, 
Since by his own, to wonders He gave Birth 
Who in a soil no less congealM grew : 
Bate but the cold and churiish qualities, 
And whsu 's a Virgtai's Womb, but Snow and Ice 7 



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CANTO VIII. 



311. 
Tbit age had ripened Him with strength to bear 
A ipeedy Joomy, and did much allay 
The lioraier scmples of his Parmts' Care, 
Who now with greater haste devour'd their way. 

Then when they into Bgjft pick'd their path ; 

And thus in peace they reach'd their Natantk, 

313. 
Their Naaarttk; for sacred Prvpkaiis 
By adamantine chains are sorely ty'd 
To their Rgltcts: the fire shall sooner friese. 
The truth of Gold in banks of Snow be try'd, 

The Son because of Night, of Drought the Rain. 

Than falsehood any Prophi($ tongue can stain. 



313- 

Those HeaVn-Blown Trmw^ i ts , (though mysteriously 

That Bfatft resounded) long ago foretold 

His humble Thle Ntiaartm should be : 

A Name of holy Dignity of old. 
And sitting fsir on pkms beads until 
It was ontshlnM by the CJkristiam stile. 

3>4. 

/ And Psy€k4, what should we do longer here 7 
Love bids thee follow their dear steps, to see 
Some further Marviitoiihy Sp^tue, and where 
He prosecuted Lov/s sweet Mytttry. 
This said ; he gave his SUUi the reins ; and they 
Together with the wind snulTd up their way. 



NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Thk' AsctTMBNT, L 3. ' dint ' s Stroke. 

Stansa 3. L i, ' msimaHmg '—see Glossarlal Index, i.v. 

Sl 13. L 6. * Apj^rtMmu ' « apparitiotts. 

St 93. IL i-a. ' mot mm. ha evay Gait was Butut^V 
— cf. Acts iii. 9. 

St 98. 1. 1. ' JohoMar '— « merely legendary name. 

St 31, L 3. put hyphen, ^a-mouming: 

St 34. L 4. ' AamJkir'—l fear this is the unhappy ' h ' 
before ' anker ' as » anchor. 

St 38. L 9. 'sacri/U^d a JUss' » offered a Ua as a 



St 47, 1. 4. *rtMd* « render? 

St. 54, L 9. ' iWM/tefV '— cf. cviL, st 956, 1. i. 

St. 64, L I. 'coify • - coyly. 

St. 66, I 9, '^MtfMrv'— misprinted 'courses' in the 
original 

St 70. 1. 4, '/ofjdw/'^ passing, journeying: L 5. 
' iitt' s course or pathway. 

St 73. L 6, *JmHio ' = council or assembly— deterior- 
ated into — cabal 

St. 76. 1 3. • UnUf^d* - watched. 

St 79. I 4, 'gliUest ' s= smoothest. 

St. 80^ I 3. ' List* s= boundary, course. 

St 86. 1. 6, 'a storm^* etc.— one of the most terrible 
of desert dangers, as I can personally testify. 

St. xoa. I I. ' Gri^ '—see Glossarial Index, j.v. 

St 1Z3, 1 4> *Bversiom ' s overturning. 

St 115. 1 3, • dimt • * stroke, as before. 

St Z94, 1 I, 'Comtrtfht: Cf. c iz.. st. 75, 1 6=- 
counter-plot 

St 198.— It is a touching thing in Wady Feiran. over- 
against stupendous Serbal, to note the long-forsaken 
cells of the okl monks of the Desert. I counted them 
literally by the hundred. 



St 134. 1 3. * Sirmiam ' s of the Syrens. 

St 139, 1 4. ' Lm/Ud'-^stc Glossarial Index, s.v. 

St Z43, 1 4, *rtligi0us Tree'—iX is still shown at a 
little distance from Cairo. When I was there itt trunk 
was a mass of iron from the nails driven into it by would- 
be fruitful mothers, who are led to expect & cure for 
hopeless sterility by coming hither and driving in a nail 

St 149. IL 5- 6 rem inds me of the poor clergyman 
who was comforted in the destructkm of his study, in- 
cluding aH his sermons, that they had in their destnictian 
done more to enlighten the community than ever they 
had done or could have done from the pulpit. 

St 150, 1 4. '!«//' = threshold. 

St. 154. 1 5, * Bss<^'s ' s Isaiah's. 

St z68, 1 6, * smart d* s entangled, intertwisted. 

St 180. L 5. '^TM^'asbred. 

St Z89, L'5. ' nmfadowuihU* » unlathomable. 

S|. 190. 1 3. ' eomjmf^d ' s by spell or conjuring. 

St Z91, I 6. * Gust ' s= the mythical ' geese ' of the 
Roman legend suggest them. 

St. 199. 1 I, * muasiders ' m maaes. 

St 194, 1 4, *latcMts' as door-fiuteners. 

St 903. 1 3. 'boulttd' = sifted. 

St 907. L 6, ' imsultoHons ' = boastings. 

St 917. 1 5, • salvagtfy ' = savagely. >WetM«<<r. 

St. 949. 1 4. *lagfd' a tagged, bore about heavily. 

St 950. 1 6, * fortemtnotfs ' s * portentous ' dongated. 

St 971. 1 I. * Memticramits ' s headache on one side 
ofthehead. 

St. 976. 1 4, * CroM^'— see Glossarial Indexs «.v. 

St. 3^. I 5, ' Sahagtmtss ' s savageness. as before. 

O. 



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CANTO IX. 
The Temptation. 



The ARGUMENT. 

LOVB by ik€ Dtserfs kve-abharring Beasts 

Mitkfy ackmowUdgd and adorid is. 

Bold TuBin/brty days mptm Him Feasts ; 

To whose sharp teeth sfy Satan /ojmeth his 
Soft Tomguis deceit; yet nothing hy their great 
AtUmpU ^fecUd, iut their own Defeat. 



W^ 



THat reach of Reason e*r could ftithom why . 
Slight Dust and Ashes; vile Corruption's Son, 
The Heir apparent to the Misery 
Which fives in Death, and blends Destruction 
With all iu Life ; the poor Worm's uterine Brother ; 
His Grave's first Cosm; his own Ruin's Mother; 



The odious Riddle of unhappy Shame 
Whom foulest Beasts abhor ; that ReM who 
In monstrous martnefw fear'd not to proclaim 
A War with his own Bliss, but strove to wooe 
Immortal Vengeance ; and himself to fell 
Whither DammaUon would or no, to Hell : 



Should so inamonr Heav'n, as to obtain 

The dig^^ of highest Favorite ; 

And in fm Mahn^s grace so fredy reign 

As by those Spirits to be serv'di whose bright 
Extiaction no acquaintance knows with Earth, 
Nor did Pollution e'r deflonre their biith ; 



Had not Almighty LovB vouchstf d to take 
This lAtmp of Clay and mould himself in it ; 
WUdk predotts Union hath power to make 
The total Mass of worthless vileness fit 
To dwdl in Honot^s throne, and there receive 
The Service Angels bhish not now to give. 



Hence comes high Heav'n content to stoop, and spare 
Fart of itt Quire to wait on Us beknr ; 



Knowing its Master's Brethren sojourn here, 
Who by their very Dust that Khidred show : 
Tills is our Badge of shame advanc'd to be 
The stamp of our subfime Nobility. 



In love to their incarnate Sovereign, who 
Upon the loftiest crest of all Creation 
Hath fix'd for ever our poor Nature, so 
That under her high feet ftiU Adoration 
Has room to kneel, their ready service they 
Ev*n to the meanest of his Kinsfolks pay. 



Whilst pompous Princes build their royal Pride 
On th' arm'd Protection of their numerous Guard ; 
Their simplest vilest Slaves are dignifi'd 
With Heav'n's illu&trious Host, to watch and ward 
Their several Charges; who though scom6d Things 
Below, are yet above dedgn'd for Kings. 

8. 
With Arms displayed, and with open breast 
They stand to catch us when we fidling are 
Into this hard and dangerous life ; and least 
That £sll should hurt us, they with tender care 
Their Wings' soft feathers spread, that in those beds 
Of Sweetness we may rest our infant heads. 



Those heads from wh&cfa no breeding hairs can peep. 
But in their catalogue they note them, and 
A strict account of their just number keep, 
By Heav'n committed to their trusty hand. 
And O, about our hearts how buqr are 
Their Pains, who thus attend our idle hair I 

la 
Alaa our other Nurses' cares were vain. 
So were our yearning Mothers' aims ; did these 
Dear Fosterers not help them to maintain 
Their proper parts : and though their Fervor cease, 
These still persue Love's Task ; hard Mothers may 
Forget their Babes, but that will never They. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO IX. 



II. 

O no : These fiUthlul Guardians are Things 

Of try'd and never-fiuUog Tenderness ; 

Such as their everlasting snowy wings, 

Such as the living smiles and Joys which dress 
The comt of heav'n, such as the dainty Air 
Which makes sweet Paradise both soft and fisir. 

12. 

Yet when Just cause awakes their noble Might, 
No ScytJUan Rock stands half so stiiTas they ; 
No LyHam Lyom mardieth to the fight 
With higher oouiage, nor afflicts his Prey 
>^th deeper fright : for in their battel's rear 
Bnve Trimm^h's adf triumpbeth to appear. 

13. 

NorneedkssisthisAid: for feeble We 
Have foes whose metal is all Sfirit, and 
The Powin o/Darkmiss, and Artillery 
Of Htli in pitched field against Us stand ; 
Whom BtlM^mb their General, with Spight 
And ever-llaming Rage fires to the fight. 

14. 

How shall poor Lambs ont&oe the Tlgre's Wrath ; 

Or Plutridges abide the Grifiien's Might ; 

How shall a Cockboat guide iu even path 

When rising Tempests make Seas stand upright ; 
How. how shall Dust block up the Strptmfs road 
When ravenous He basts to his sentenc'd food? 



15. 

But with his Blackum these hri^ Ckau^iam fought 

Of old, and so complete a conquest got. 

That ever since that heay'n-renownM Rout 

Wild Luci/tTt in sad remembrance put 
Of his vain Spight, is in their presence tame, 
And like the burnt Chfld trembles at their Flame. 

x6. 

He trembles ; if the Boldness of our Sin 

Wakes not fresh courage in his iailing heart ; 

For then on Us He by our selves doth win ; 

Nor can our Guardians exercise their Art 
With due success, when by self-treason We 
Our forces Join with Hell's Conspiracy. 

17. 

When to mad ^0110^ deep yidds Reason's rein, 
Against polluted Dreams TkiSi stop the way, 
That no highfed and tickling Thoughts may stain 
The clouded Soul : for who, alas, can say, 
I ahoays am my seif, and though asleep 
The constant watch of Chastity can keep t 

18. 
TJUsi rescue lend us when sly Danger near 
Our strait-besiegM Soul or Body draws ; 



Tka€ intercept boU Chanu: these by the dear 
Lustre which flows about their blesa6d brows 
Light us the way to Peace, and by their own 
Kind wings rdieve our feet when weary grown. 

TAcw, active in the bosom's secret foige. 
Blow up Devotion's holy fire, to mint 
Refin'd pelludd Thoughts, and purely purge 
That Rust and Dross wlifch might pollute the Print 
Of Juu*s Image, that bright Image which 
Will none but finest richest Ore inrich. 

2a 
Tku€ teach th' embrav6d Soul to tower above 
Those gross, yet empty things which flag bdow : 
Tktst steer us through the Miracles o/LevCt 
And teach us in heav'n's Ocean how to row. 
Tkesi all are Brethren unto Pkylax, who 
What He for Psycke did. for us wiU do. 

21. 

Their aim his Studs had now recover^ 

And Palestine regain'd : when He aside 

Sloped his bridle, and his joumy sped 

Into another Desert, wild and wide 
By whose dire Drought affiigfated Jordan, though 
Well stor'd with streams made haste away to flow. 

22. 
As AyvAtf musM at the rnefiil Place, 
Amongst whose desolate Nothings soon she lost 
Her questtoning eye ; with his divine embrace 
Phylax encourag'd her : and, though thou dost 
Not yet behold, said he. the Price of thy 
Long voyage, thou shalt find it by and by. 

Here stopping his fleet Coach. He thus drove on 
His sweet Discourse : O my thrice dearest Dear 
(Beca u se His precious Darling on whose throne 
My Adoration waits,) this Desert here 

Is but another Scene wherein thy Lord 

More fuel for thy wonder did afford. 

24. 

It was repriev'd from bearing other fruit, 

That it hi AiiraeUs might fertile be ; 

In MiracUs whose fitf -resounding bruit 

Shall match the laoe of 71mm as long as He 
Has legs to run ; and when He drops into 
His grave, in triumph o'r his tomb sball go. 

When thirty thnes thy Spouse has seen the Sun 
Change all his Insu, whose golden Signs are hung 
Upon the Zodiack's girdle ; reverend John 
Gave Penance* s Alarm so shriU and strong 
As rons'd the dullest Souls, and mustered store 
Of wondering People upon Jordan*s shore. 



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CANTO IX. 



PS YCHE : OR LO VES MYSTER V. 



I6S 



26. 

Bat they their reyerential wonder on 
The glorious Baptist fiz'd ; not knowing they 
Had muflSed in their own throng's dou'd a Smm 
Fairer than that which gilds the World with day : 
A Smm before whose Rise illustrious yoMm 
Did <wly like the trembling twilight run. 

27. 

For, first hid in his own Humility, 

Jams himself had miz6d with the Qrow'd ; 

In which blind Tumult's open Tonent He 

Unto that River undiscovered flow'd : 
So purest Airs in a confusM Cky 
Though most melodious, breathe no Melody. 

28. 

How He baptist Baptism ; how a Grown 
Of heaven's best beams perch'd on his fieurer Head ; 
How his coequal Spirit fluttered down, 
And what Applause his Fatkir thundonM ; 
I would repeat, but that it hugs thy heart, 
For with this Story now thou Girded art 

29. 

But by that nimble Dcve*s eternal Wings 

Bemg hither wafted from that lever's shore. 

He Purity unto the dry Land brings 

As to the Water he had done before. 
Yet nothing else he brought ; nor drink nor meat : 
He hither came to fight, and not to eat. 

30. 
He came to fight ; and bravely to revenge 
The World's old Quarrel, which subduM lay 
E'r since through Man's unwarey heart the strange 
Bmil€t burst ope its death-deriving way ; 
Which, as it smiilng hung upon the Tret, 
Fond He an harmless Apple took to be. 

31- 
He came to fight : and sturdy foes he found 
Axm'd round with Power but much more with Rage : 
Less than tJU Greatest had He been, this Ground 
Had piov'd his Tngedie's tmhappy Stage : 
Bat so He foufi^t, that here He fotc'd at kust 
A Peast of Trimmpks to attend his Past. 

For any Combat never chosen were 
More dreadful LisU : observe that parched Hill. 
That Throne of Barrenness and Squallor, where 
Against the hungry North thou see'st a CeU ; 

Which long hath gapM bat oouM never find 

Any Relief but lapten bitter wind. 

33- 
That Den 'a the Dwelling of that Chamfiam who 
First ventured on a Conflict fiwe to Cmc 



With God imcarmate; one as like to do 

The feat of Spigbt, as any of the race 
Of HeU-begotten Fiends ; jret prov'd as feeble 
As all the fearful world esteem'd her able. 

34. 
Our noise had rous'd her now : see Psyche, see 
Her goodly Ushers ; those seaven-homM Things 
Though like to nothing but themselves they be ; 
Must go for Kine : spermatick Nile; which brings 

Choise Monsters forth, in their strange birth alone 

Hath all his other Prodigies out-gone. 

35. 

These lowing to the King in sUent night, 

(Whom dear-ey'd Dreams through Paiis dark closets 
led.) 

He starts and wakes ; but of the frightful sight 

He knew not bow the Characters to read .* 
Nor why those sharpset Portemts leaner shewed 
When seatfmfat Kime their stomadis had subdued : 

36. 

Till 7011^ dear'd the Mist, and taught him what 

By those new Hierogljrphicks' DesHmy 

bdgn'd to unfold. But when the Beasts had got 

Their full and starved septennial "S^ctory ; 
They to this Cave for entertainment came, 
Resolv'd to serve a correspondent Dame. 

37. 
Behold their Hair is shrivell'd up and dry ; 
Their ugly Hides aforehand tann'd and tough ; 
Their sharp-affirighted Bones stand staring high ; 
Their wretched flesh's Reliques sink as low ; 

Their Bellies to their Backs dose tyM are ; 

And sear and knotted sticlss for L^ they wear. 

38- 

All Shape is shrunk to such Deformity 
That did their Horns not point them out, nor Thou 
Nor Pharaoh could have dreamt they should be 
Descended from a Bull and honest Cow. 
And yet well&vor'd Beasts are these to Her 
Their dismal Sovereigm, who comes raging there. 

39- 

Just at the word the Hag appeared, with Look 
More keen than Jammarfs breath ; or than 
Revemge*s visage ; or the pierdog stroke 
Of barbarous North-begotten Boreas, when 
He his most massy diains of Ice hath hurl'd 
O'r Sea and Land, and stupify'd the World. 

40. 

The sudden Dint shot hito Psyche's heart 

Such terrible Amasement, that it slew 

Her heat and courage : but a counter Dart 

Of ready succour Phylax thither threw. 
And suppling her cold breast with soft and warm 
Comforts, proceeded thus her Soul to arm. 



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CANTO IX. 



41. 
Thy Weakness moch appSandk thy Spcmu's might 
Who stoutly giapled with this diwdAil foe ; 
The only gttmpse of whose ponentuovs sight 
Could an thy trembling Spirits overthrow. 
But yet thy/ior this Terror streogthned, and 
Assaulted thee by none but thine own hand. 

42. 

If weD thou mark'st what dogs the/vrsV train, 

Fair may'st thou read thine own security ; 

For heavy at her heels she drags a chain 

Of Adamant, whose other end is by 
Heav'n's arm. in which all powers in triumph ride» 
Fast to thy mighty Savior's footstool ty'd. 

43- 

Fieroely indeed at first she darted out ; 

Bat now her curbM pace is tame and slow : 

She knows her Compass, having often fought 

In vain against her chain's eternal Law. 
True to its duty is her trusty Tether, 
Nor can her strength persuade it to reach hither. 



Thus when the greedy Mastiff leapeth firom 

His nasty kennel, spurr'd by^ hungry wrath ; 

The sullen Chain, which will not go from home. 

Checks his adventure and cuts of his path ; 
At which the wretch^ Cur lets fiUl his ears, 
And tail, and sphit, and whines, and grins and lears. 

45. 
For upon every wild and restless jfWuf 
Sure sits this Cune, that they cannot forbear 
To whet their Hunger and their Thirst to grind. 
And in keen fury for the fight prepare 

So soon as they have any prey descry'd ; 

Although, mad foob, they kxiow their feet are ty'd. 

46. 

Mark how her Eyes are fled into her head. 

Afraid upon her cursM self to look ; 

For in that leaf alas what could she read 

But what the Transcript is of Terror^ j book ? 
Her skin 's the paper (O how ghastly white 1) 
Where Paim and Horror their black Legends write. 

47. 
All upright staring stand her startled Hairs 
Of one another's touch in Jeafous dread ; 
Two close shrunk Knota of Gristles are her Ears, 
Severely tyiog up her starved head : 

Her keeoess is epitomize in 

Her pincfaM Nose, and her sharx>-pointed Chin. 

48. 

Like chalky Fits her hollow cheeks appear ; 
Her sapless lips are parch'd and ihrivell'd up ; 



Her ivory Teeth's too-deanly ranges glare 
With cntel whiteness, and stand always ope 
That her dire Tongue may ever dangle out 
To catch the rain and quench its burning drought 

49. 
Her trembling dung-up Neck has much ado 
Under her head's light burden not to crack : 
By its slight nodding flow'r oppressed, so 
Shivers the famishM and withered Stalk. 
For Arms, she shows two yards of skin and bone 
O'rpowr'd and dr'd with their own weight alone. 

50. 
Her fleshless Hands are more than Vulture's Claws 
TaUon'd with never-prunM Nails ; and they. 
The barbarous Seiigeants of her greedy jaws 
By their first touch lor ever damn their prey. 
Her legs are two faint crinckling Props ; her fieet 
Already mouldiing, baste their grave to meet 

51. 
The fatal Bunch of Com which fills her hand, 
(Onol which makes Ki^*(r be there :) 
Are those Sotnfn Ran which once on NUm* strand 
To mock those hungry Oxm rang<6d were ; 
And now becomes her Rod, on which there grows 
No Qratn, nor any other fruit, but Blows. 

Was ever such Contraction seen, as there. 
About a waste, whose girdle Tkinmtss is I 
The strait-hu:*d Insect's slender Brood could ne'r 
Shrink up themselves into a scanter dress. 
Her Belly's sunk and gone ; and spare she may 
Her storehouse, who no store has there to lay. 

53. 
See*st thou her ruful Thighs and shouldiers knawn f 
Imagin not that any Beast but she 
Her self was guilty of the fact : her own 
Keen Tusks have grav'd those lines of Crudty ; 
For since she wanted other Cates to eat. 
She despentdy made her self her Meat. 

S4. 

Little it was she from her self could tear ; 

And yet where nothing else was to be had. 

That little seemM fiitt and dainty Cheer. 

But there alas, before she long had fied. 
Her banquet frtU'd between her teeth, and die 
Instead of flesh, chew'd meer Vacuify, 

55. 
This in her bosom ras'd that tempest's waves, 
Which, could thou hear it, would amase thine ear : 
Her stomaek gripes, and pricks, and roars, and raves. 
And aU its misery objects to Her : 
So do her Bowds, bound in their own diains, 
And ty'd, and twisted up in knots of Pidns. 



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CANTO IX. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



167 



56^ 

TYatit/Unds of choiaest Power and Spiglit there are 

Whom dar6d Vengeance sends to lash the Earth ; 

The hidden Pestilence^ wide open War; 

And/amin this fell Hag, whose Drought and Dearth 
Bum with more Poison than the Plague, and kill 
V^th sharper wounds than ^0r'j relentless steel. 

57. 
This is that Engine which brealu ope its way 
Through flesh and bone, and riots in the heart ; 
Yet leaves all whole, that so her fiiry may 
Mock whom it tortures, and by cruel art 

Seem to foibear all Violence, whilst she 

Wakes Ruin by her silent Battery. 

58. 

That living Death by which unhappy Man 

Is forc'd himself his funeral to begin ; 

Whilst past hope's sphere he wanders fidnt and wan 

Wrapp'd in the wmding sheet of his pale skin, 

And seeks bis grave through whose cool door he may 

Into a milder Death himself convey. 

59. 

That peeriess Tyrant, whose impatience hath 

No possibility her Prise to spare ; 

The dire Dispenser of the Dr^gs of Wrath ; 

Of Torments Queen ; the Empress of Despair ; 
That senigmatick foe, whose Ammunition 
Is nothing else but want of all Provision. 

60. 
Expect not to behold her family, 
Or what Retinue on her court attends : 
No Servant ever strong enough could be 
To bear her presence, much less her Commands ; 

Being assur'd they never should her will 

Unless her Belly too they could fulfill. 

61. 

Indeed dry Languitkment, pale GMastlyneu, 

Cold Desolatum, her Handmaids be : 

But of an essence so jejune are these. 

That in her company deserted She 
Nothing but nothing meets, or, what is worse. 
The wretched ykimesj of an empty Cmru, 

62. 
Bat yonder Table which is hung so high 
Above her Cavern's door will tell thee what 
Were her exploits. When Mercy passed by. 
This monitory sign she fizM, that 
Mortals might learn what^f^vif was kenneU'd here, 
And of this Den of greedy Death beware. 

63. 
Lo what A smoaUng Hurlyburly 's there 
Of gallant Ruins tumbling on the ground. 



These once high-built and goodly Cities were. 
Which when Wat's mighty Ram could not confound. 

This Hag with no Pikaxes but her own 

Fierce Teeth, min'd all the walls and tore them down. 

64. 

See there she chaseth frogs, and rats and mice, 
And hunts the dogs themselves ; ambitious by 
These strangely-predous Dainties to suffice 
The loud Demands of her stem Boulimy. 
Discretely there the pmdent Painter has 
The Earth of Iron made, and Heav'n of Brass. 

65. 

But there her Girdle and her shoes she eats 
For that acquaintance which they had of old 
With Beef and Mutton and such dassick Meats : 
There out she turns the silly useless Gold, 
And clapping on its poverty a curse, 
A savory Meal she maketh of her Purse. 

66. 
She rouses there the sleeping mire, and by 
A strict examination makes it tell 
What hidden treasures in its bosom lie ; 
Nor is she daunted by the unlikely shell. 

But ransacks still, and finds the gem within ; 

For she the Oyster first fish'd out for Men. 

67. 

The Dunghil there she rakes, and pries for fresh 
Strong-scented Excrements ; right glad when she 
By lucky search achieves so rare a Dish 
Which needs, being reeking hot, no cookery. 

That Glass in which she drinks, and drinks up all. 

No other is but her own Urinal. 

68. 
Her Jaws against that Fort of stone she try'd, 
When once she was immur'd in streights : and see 
How she compell'd and tore Success; those wide 
And ragged holes, her Ttuks stout breaches be : 
Her hasty boistrous Stomach would not stay, 
And wanting other food, she «a/ A/r way, 

69. 

That heap of Bones is all her Rage has left 
Of her own Parents, whose dear flesh she made 
Her barbarous feast, and them of life bereft 
By whom she liv'd ; such is the salvage trade 
Of desperate Vipers, who their fixry fatten 
Ev'n on the Womb in which they were begotten. 

70. 
And yet no Vipers venture to devour 
Their proper Brood ; 'tis Nature* s strictest Law, 
That with Traduction Love should join her power, 
And like the Rivers, down hill strongest flow : 
Only this Fiend all >^pers dares excuse. 
And in her Children's blood her teeth imbrues. 



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CANTO IX. 



71. 

For those bemangled Limbs which scatter'd be 
About the Picture's verge, the ruins are 
Of seav'n uxilovM lovely Babes, which she 
Fear'd not with her remorseless claws to tear. 
And back into her bowels force ; if yet 
She any bowels had, who thus could eat 

72. 
This Comprehension of all Pbrtents. this 
Most desi^cable. stanr'd, but potent Hag, 
Was that bold Combatant whom Desp€rattn4ss 
Clapp'd on the back, embracing to a brag 
And joUy confidence that mortal Might 
Could never with her Teeth maintain a fight. 

73. 
Resolv6d thus, she rashM from her grot 
To seise thy Sfaiui : but started when she saw 
Her strange Antagonist, and ventur'd not 
To try on mighty Him her awM Claw : 
Yet mad with hunger, she contrives to make 
Her Craft the office of her fiiry take. 

74. 
For though her Looks deep-dy'd in Horror's grain 
Such strong Aifirightment round about had shed. 
That not the boldest Beast of all the Plain 
But from those direful Emanations fled. 
Leaving the Dtstri more than doubled, where 
Was nothing now but earth and stones, and air : 

75. 
Yet here discovering one who seem'd prepar'd 
To meet and scorn the worst of Dangers, she 
Grew jeatous of the Champion, and fear'd 
Some Wiley stratagem might plotted be 
Against her nghtdown force ; which made her 
By Countremines his Project to oppose. 

7«. 

For waitii:^ warey opportunity, 
And being thin and subtile, with the wind 
She miz'd her self, and then resolv'd to try 
How she might steal upon him by a blind 
And unperodvM Charge. So Cowards fight 
By base Advantage, not by generous Might 

But He, who all her cruel counsel saw, 
Fft>m her abstruse carreer disdain'd to start ; 
And wellcom'd with stout constancy the Blow 
Fiercely directed luU against his heart ; 
Giving her leave her spighdul self to shoot 
Into hit ttomach tfaroogfa his yielding throat 

78. 

So when the Waves march in a nging tide 
Against his Cavern's mouth, the fearless Rock 



Makes good his ground, and never shrinks aside 
To shun the peril of the violent shock ; 
But lets the Storm come in. and roar ita fill 
In all the bowels of his resohite Cell. 

79. 
Thus entred, up and down she rends her way, 
And seizeth with immediate greediness 
All those Reserves of Nutriment which lay 
Stor'd up in every dose and dark Recess ; 

And these she conquer'd without any stop. 

For as she met them strait she eat them up. 

8a 

No Drop she left nor Crumb, to make reply 
To that most earnest Call of thousand Veins. 
Whose pritty craving mouths incessantly 
Stt'd for their due relief : her dearest gains 
She oounta by their Undoing, and makes all 
Their Cries, the Musick of her FestivaL 

8X. 

The robbM stomach thus too cleanly free 
Of all things but the Thief: she broacheth there 
The flood of all that oorsive Cruelty 
With which her pin6d self she us'd to tear : 
A flood, to which most fretful Vinaigre 
Is gentle Oile, smart Gall is dropphig Myrrh. 

83. 

As when inoensM by the fririous flame 
The Furnace 'gins to nge ; if you deny 
The Cauldron some fresh Liquor's help to tame 
The insolent Heat's excess, and moilify 
lu rampant Thirst ; how soon, alas, the poor 
Copper it self will boil, and bum, and roar 1 

83. 

So fares it with the Entrails, where the/nr 
Which Nature kindled, if it wants its friei, 
On what oomes next to hand will wreak its ire. 
And grow against the Stomach's substance cruel : 

For all ita Lifie oonsista in constant Meat ; 

And when it dies, it do's but cease to Eat. 



And yet with adamantine Bfeavery 
Thy Spomsi in this Conspiracy of Pidns 
His Patience aims ; and though his bowels frie 
In mutinous flames, he valiantly refrains 
From all CompbUntt and sighs and signs that lie 
Felt what he felt, stem Humga^s tyranny. 

85. 

He by this Fasfs sharp Med'dne pleased was 

To cure the Eating of the fetal Tru 

Where grew that Death which was entail'd to pass 

On Bv^s and Adam*s wretched Progeny : 
He freely what he might receive, refiised, 
Becanse, what they forbidden werei they used. 



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PSYCtlE: OR LOV&S MYSTERY. 



169 



86. 
(Thus moax chaste Water curb the losty flame ; 
Unis Cold's strict bands must chain licentious Heat ; 
Thus sober Weight must idle Lighmess tame ; 
Thus wholsom Sour must prime lozorious Sweet ; 

Thus honest Day must chase out thievish Night ; 

Thus Contraries with Contraries must fight) 

87. 

And by his venerable Practise he 

Has consecrated and advanced this 

Despised tfaing> to that sublime degree 

Of glorious delight, that Pasting is 

Tkt DatMiUs 0ftlu Saimis, to which they can 
Invite their hearts, and feast the Ituur Mam. 

88. 
For whilst they at this misticfc banquet sit, 
The saucy Flesh learns to he meek and mild ; 
The boiling Blood grows cool» and every fit 
or wilful Lust forgetteth to be wild ; 

The Fusions to Reason crouching stand ; 

The Brain grows dear, and all its donds disband. 

89. 

Their fi«e unhamper'd Contemplations towre 
Up to the crest of their divine desires, 
And through those everlasting Wonders sooore, 
Whicfa sUne as far beyond the starry fires 
As they above this Mass of Earth are whirld. 
Which grovels in the bottom of the World. 

90. 
Thus from that Slavery they redeemM are 
Whose knots their teeth had tied ; thus they throw 
Their dogs away, and on free pinions rear 
Themsebes into themsehres : being quicfcned now 
By brisk Devotion's Flame, and not by that 
Gross kitdien-Heat which warms their spit and pot. 

91. 
Nor is the Body forc'd to bear the pam. 
Whilst all the pleasure to the Soul accrues, 
But in itt kmd rei^n fiiU as sweet again : 
For its intirest vigor this renews, 
And by firesh Uvdy feathen quiu the cost 
Of all those rotten moulting phmies it lost 

92. 

For when high-fed Distempen sneak away ; 

And that dark Seed of crude Infirmities 

Which in the bodie's furrows nestling lay, 

Before its Urth most seasonably dies ; 
Fatting the physick gives : yet generous She 
(O cheap Physician I) never takes a fee. 

93- 

She AToMtii^ takes ; and would have BAan do so ; 
For all her Rtcifts are only This : 

46 



She turns the deep Complaint of bitterest wo 

Into an bigb-stram'd Dialect of Bliss, 
And for this reason dares the Sick assure 
Of Health's return, that Nothing them can curt. 

94. 

O Savtrtign Nctking ! which so deeply could 
Thy Spcmst inamour, that on it He fed 
Twice twenty days and nights : though Sleep so bold 
Might grow to venture on his Eyes, it did 

Not onoe presume to touch, much less to fight 

The noble Paradoz of his Appetite. 

95- 

That generous Appetite, which strictly kept 

This long long Watch without one wink of rest ; 

Yet since it suted with his pleasure, reapt 

Fftmi this severest Restlessness, the best 
Of Ease's sweeu : though fosting, He could fill 
Himself; for now his Stomach was his WiU. 

96. 

Unknown were those exuberant Dainties He 
Ev'n in the midst of Emptiness enjoy'd : 
'Twas always Meat and Drink to hun to be 
About his Fathtr't glorious work employ'd. 
O predous Piety, which fumishest 
Without the Kitchen's hdp so rich a Feast I 

97. 

The Fury spent her own his Strength to tire. 

But fretted, gnaw'd, and vex'd her sdf in vain. 

Hast thou not heard how Motet, all on fire 

With stout Devotfon, did of old sustain 
As many days and nights on Sina't head, 
A stranger all the while to drink and bread? 

98. 

If by approach to God fiEunt Man could grow 

So much above the temper of a Creature ; 

If by attendance on the Moral Lam 

He could forget the oigent Law o/Naturt ; 
What might Hi do, to whose great Motet' t Yejot 
In all ia splendors still, but dusky was I 

99- 
What might He do who did not only draw 
So near to God. but who Himtelfwat Ht ; 
No Instrument, but Author of the Law, 
By Vhtue of his proper Ddty. 

No Proxy He, nor stated in his Might 

Barely by Patent, but by Native Righi. 

loa 
He who their pow'r to Salamanden gave 
Safidy to scorn the si^ge of any flame. 
And in the furnace's red bosom live. 
Making the hostile fire become thefar tame 
And friendly food ; might well Tkirtft drought sub- 

due. 
And turn its bumiog wrath to cooling Dew. 



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CANTO IX. 



lOI. 
Ht» to whose Bounty's Hand Chunelioos ow 
Thdr Virgin Privilege, by which they amy 
Contemn all groa unwefldy Meats, and grow 
Fat upon sapless Air ; can find a way 
As pore a diet for himself to get, 
And force the Winds to blow him in his Meat. 

I02. 

Nay. since the soul of Brtad is duU and dead. 

And no assistance can to Life afford. 

Unless it self be fortify'd and fed 

By God's all-fanning afl-aupporting Word ; 
He well can spare its aid. yet want no food. 
Who is himself th'.5iJ»i/f a/ Word nf God. 

103. 

Witness his most authentick Might ; for now 

An intimation of bis Royal Will 

With terror strudc the gnawing Fury thro*. 

Commanding her not to disturb him. till 
He gave her leave ; Who busy meat to be 
With other Beastt of better worth than she. 

104. 
Soon saw the Hag how rsshly she had thrown 
Her wariest strength into a conquering Net, 
Where her fell Teeth and Nails were not her own, 
Bat His whom she design'd to make her meat. 
Against her self she therefore madly bent 
Her spight» and both her hair and heart-atrings rent. 

io$. 

But safe and unmolested He went on 

To seek those/ZMJ^r which Ikom the dreadful Oka 

Oi this intolerable Pimd had ran 

To shroud their trembling Lives ; and thought it not 
Beneath Umself, since He the Saviour is 
Of Mom and Boast, to care for what is His. 

When Oxen he and Asses had descry'd 
Lowing and bniTing thenr desires of grus. 
He kindly thought of what did him betide, 
When in their house he entertain^ was ; 
How BotkUkom stable with the hay and manger 
Welcomed the New-born-men-rejected Sirangtr, 

107. 
A herd of Goats then met his Eye ; which in 
His gentle Bosom rato'd a pityhig sigh, 
To think of those whom bdd and odious sin 
Had made of stinking kin to these : yet by 
His gracious look his love to them he spake : 
He hales no Goau bat those he dul not make. 

108. 
A flock of Sheep went bleating alter them. 
Whose sucking Sons made him nOect again 



Upon himsetf God^s everiastfa^ Lamb, 
Bom in proud SaUm*t shamhlrs to be slain. 

He blest them aU ; and for their sustenance, 

Ingag'd his Magaxine of Providence. 

109. 

Then IHendly to a Fool with them he came. 
The only Water whkh that Desert knows ; 
(If yet that Pool defile not Watei^s name. 
Which only with deep muddy poyson flows.) 

The banks were throqg'd with savage Beasts, whkh 
lay 

Putting and gaspii^, and foigot their pvey. 

For pardsing tUrst had now drank up their ire ; 
And hungiy hunting would but more increase 
That too>prevailing luiy of their fire. 
Which only Water's mildness might appease ; 

Vet thou^ their Tongues lay fiTingon the brink. 

They durst not quench them in that dangerous Drink. 

III. 
For yet the kiQg-expected Umkom 
Delay'd his coming ; He who always by 
The piercing Antidote of his lair Horn 
First broach'd the wfaoksom Lkiuor which dkl lie 

Imprison'd in the poyson-s poweiv and then 

A health to all his fellQi«4ienal» begin. 

112. . 

Nor was his tardiness that day bydbanoe. 

The only day in which he could be spared ; 

For now SatvoHom's Horn, who could dispense 

That sovereign vcrtue which was deeplyw feared 
By every Poison, than what breaketh from 
The potent Unuom*s, was thith^ come. » 

"3. 
Great was the Congregation ; fbr there 
The princely Lyon lay, the angry Dog. 
The mountainous Elqihant, the shaggy Bear, 
The hasty Wolf, the foaming Boar, the Hog 

His grumbling Wifie, the roaring frowning Bull, 

The Porcupine of ammunition f ulL 

114. 
The spotted Psnther, stiff Rhinooerot, 
Swift-footed Tigre ; and a thousand more : 
Whom wilder thirst had thither forc'd, in hot 
And panUng throngs beleaguered the shore. 
Crowding as stoudy Water now to^get 
As Noak*s flighted Troops to 'aoape from it. 

115. 

But when thine imexpected SpofUi appeared. 

With reverent amaianimt every Be^st 

The sacred spectacle both bv'd and feared. 

And by ingenuous bashfiilnaiis oonfest 
Whom they beheld, and how uavortby.lhcy 
Esteem'd themselves to drink bis Aspect's ray. 



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CANTO IX. 



PSYCHE: OH LOVB^S MYSTERY. 



171 



116. 
Yet that first GUmce <fid sach refreshment dart 
That all the forces of their Thirst it slew. 
So when unto a long-afflicted Heart 
j€ys their nnlook'd-ldr sudden ooont'nance shew, 

The bieased (Himpse fiighu gloomy Qrief away. 

Buries bfaudi Night, and wakes up beauteous Day. 

117. 
These Beasts were heirs to them who when as yet 
Tim€ and the World were young, in ParadtH 
At Go^s own summoning together met, 
To pay their homages in humble guise 

To princely Adam ; who sate mounting high 

On his £ur Throne of native Monarchy. 

118. 

Wdl then they mark*d their Sovereign's Eyes and Face, 

And an his Penon's lovely Majesty, 

Which streamM on them with such potent Grace, 

That they durst not ADegiaaoe deny 
To so sweet Violence, but to his beck 
And gentle Yoke bow'd down their loyal Neck. 

119. 
But iriien unwary Adam*j £blU had spred 
GttUft vail upon his hrused Face ; with wonder 
The Oeatures gax'd, and £ain would there have read 
Their former Lesson of Majestick splendor : 
But seeing all was bhnr'd, Abhonenoe sworn 
And open Foes of Sub|ects made them turn. 

12a 
Tlieir Sons and Generations after them 
Succeeded in their hate to human Sin : 
And an these barbarous Beasts which hither came 
Had in that Quaird bom and nurtured been ; 
Who whenaoeV Chance shewM them a Maut 
To him as their condenuiM prey they ran. 

131. 

For never spy'd they any one, but In 

His sdf-betraying countenance they saw 

The odious characters of deep-writ Sin ; 

Which their commission was their powers to draw 
Against the foul Apostate, and withal 
Their fury answer Vtngmncis loud Call 

133. 

But when on jESlTt &ce they try'd their Eyes, 
No blur or sign of guflt they could descry : 
His looks were purer than the virgin skies. 
Pblish'd with Beauty's best serenity, 
Array'd with princely Sutellness, and dight 
With Love, with Life, with Grace, and Royal light 

This wak'd those ancient seeds of Memory, 
Which prudent Nature in their hearts had set ; 



And which by wise Instinct did signify 
That their utupatud Monarch they had met. 
They had indeed ; for this was Adam too : 
Alas that Beasts much more than Men should know I 

X24. 
Men knew him not : but Beasts distinctly read 
In him the Protoplasts aU-graceful feature : 
Such were the gallant Glories of his Head ; 
Sudi was the goodly measure of his Stature ; 
Such were the reverend Innocende's beams 
Which from his flaming Eyes pour'd pleasure's streams. 

I3S. 

Such radiant awfufaiess Men foncy in 
Th' apparent heirs of earthly Kixigdoms. that 
They think the King of Beasts by royal Kin 
To their condition groweth courteous at 

Their sight, and quite forgets his cruel sense 

Of being Salvageness's dreadful Prince. 

126. 
What wonder than if thus it happen'd now 
The mighty only Heir o/Heav'n was here ; 
He, for whose high and best-deserving Brow 
Eternity was busy'd to prepare 

That Sun-outshining Crown, which flaming is 

Upon his Incarnation's lowliness t 

127. 
No longer durst the princely Lyon in 
His wonted State, but in submission, rise ; 
His never-daunted Tail till now, between 
His Legs he humbled, and let fieOl his Eyes : 

Confessing to the Beasts that made his train, 

lliat he was not their onfy Sovereign. 

128. 
Approaching thus, he couched on the ground. 
And with ingenuous devotion 
Kiss'd yBSVs Feet ; rejoydng he had found 
Jnda's Majestick Lyon^ who alone 

Wore in his noble Looks &ir-writ the Name 

Of Bmferor of this created Frame. 

129. 

By his devout example aU the rest 

'Their now engage Duty leam'd, and did : 

In decent modest order every Beast 

His service \fj a meek kiss ofier^d : 
And then they all before him prostrate lay. 
Humbly expecting what their Lord would say. 

He in a Mystick Dialect, which soon 

They understood, his Royal pleasure spoke : 

For in that eneigetick Language on 

AU their First-&thers' necks he laid his yoke ; 

A yoke without regret drawn ever since 

By their most tractable Obedience. 



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131. 
Nay. not those Aniiiuds alone ; bat Trees. 
Shnibs, Planu, /Vsmm*! FtuHs. and Maia*s Flowers. 
The Earth, the Air. the Fbe. the boiiUoiis Seas. 
The Winds, the Hails, the Frosts, the Snows, the 
Showers. 
The Dews, the Ligfatnhig and the Thunder, Hdl 
And Heaven, and all things ken his Language well. 

13a. 

For being that BUrmai Word, from whom 
What eirer Is, recdyes it self ; He knows 
In what intelUgibie way to come 
To all his Creatures, and pronomioe his Laws. 

A IF^rtf of boundless bounds and potency 

To every thing significant may be. 

133- 
To every thing ; and more than so : fatHt 
On empty Nothing his Commands can lay : 
And long before, ev'n in their Seeds they be. 
Summon what Worlds he pleases ; nor dare they 

Plead ignorance of what he says, but by 

Instant Existence to his Call reply. 

134. 
(O how portentous is that Deafness then 
Which dammeth up the most rebdlious ear 
Of those unhappy Heav'n-defying Men, 
Whom their own welfare cannot wooe to hear 
Almighty MtreUs sweetest-tunM Charms, 
Nor VengtamUi long-thundering Alarms t) 

135. 
What 'twas He spake, tho' they best understood, 
Yet if my guessing may presume of leave. 
He chaig'd them to confine their thirst of Blood, 
And for bis Incamaticm^s sake reprieve 

Those who were UnkM by that Mystery 

To Heav'n and him in near affinity. 

136. 

For now he came to ope a gentler Age 
To all his World than heretofore had run, 
To banish Spigfat, and Salvageness, and Rage, 
And to esublish endless Ptact's Throne ; 
He came degraded Man to reordain, 
And make him Mnce of all below again. 

137. 

To re-ordain him. that he would but yield 

Not to be vassal unto Sin and Htll; 

If he would be content his strength to build 

On 's Maker* s Power, if he whose treacherous Will 
Enslaves himself, would by Heaven's Pleasure rein 
His Passions' fireedom which is Reason's chain. 

138. 

And to encourage their Obedience, He 
Told all their Beasts, their expectation and 



LoQg-panting Groans should diortly aaswer*d be. 
For he himsdf would haste to break the Bond 
In which CorrufHon kept them slaves, and them 
With Heaven's dear Heirs to Liberty redeem. 

139. 
This done ; his sacred Hand he Hfted up 
And round about on his devotes dealt 
His bounteous Blessing ; strait they 'gun to hop 
Their thankful danoe, when in their hearts they felt 
The Joyful taifluenoe which, they knew not how, 
Ftom his diy Hand's widestieamhig fount did flow. 



Then with the Cslrett manners plain Beaau had, 
Shakmg their tails, and kMting knr their heads. 
They took their reverent leave ; not only glad 
Their hardest breasu were sown with gentle seeds. 

But that they hi their Sovereign*! lovdy dread 

A Lyon and a Lamb together read. 

141. 

Thus left alone he hastt to make due use 

Of privacy's rich opportunity. 

What fitter place could wise DevoHan chuae 

Where she with freedom through all heav'n might fly f 
What is the Desert, but an Harbour, which 
No storms of this tumultuous world can reach? 

143. 
Besides ; his active Soul now Ughtned by 
His fisst, and &irly pois'd on sprightiul wiBgs. 
Was wen appointed up to tower, and try 
The altitude of Heav'n's sublimest things. 
Not that he needed this advantage, but 
To Man this useful Copy ddgn'd to set 

143- 
As when more fuel 's hei^'d upon the hearth 
Than well the Chimny's stomach can digest ; 
The flames their wonted bounds despising, forth 
With fury rush, till all the Room opprest 
With bright and dark billowa of fire and smoak 
In that dry Sea's unruly storm they choak. 

144. 

So when intemperate Man ingoigeth more 

Than corresponds with his Capacity ; 

With burning Vapors that superfluous store 

Riots about his heart and head. But he 
Who trades in fasUng, keeps his Spirit's sphere 
Calm and unclouded : as did JESUS here. 

145- 
Through that unfathomable Treasury 
Of sacred Thoughts and Counsels and Decrees. 
Built in the Palace of Eternity 
And safely fockM with three massy keys 

Whereof himself by proper right keeps one. 

With intellectual lightness now he ran. 



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173 



146. 
And there he to Us hnmane Soul unyall'd 
The flaming Wonders of Divinity » 
A Sea through which no Sira^M's eye e'r safl'd, 
So vast, so Ugh, so deep those secreu be 
{GctTs nearest Fxiend, the Somi o/JSSUS is 
Whom he admits to aU his Privacies.) 

147. 
There, in an adamantine Table, by 
The s^oos hand of Goodness fairly writ 
He saw his Ineamaium*s lAjtUxy, 
The Reasons, Wonders, and the ways of it 
There freely rang'd his Contemplation from 
His scomM Cradle to his guarded Tomb. 

148. 
His Soul rgoicM aU the way it ran, 
And taught his Fast to turn a sumptuous Feast : 
Each Grief, each Pain he toolc delight to scan, 
And what the bitterest was he reUish'd best 

Not for a Worid would he have wanted one ; 

But oould have wish'd a cruder Passion. 

149. 
Thus having exerds'd the day ; when night 
On beav'n's wide face her sable mantle spread, 
He other Work began : no leaden weight 
Of Drowsiness lagg'd down his watchful head : 
So strong his Fast was grown, that no dull doud 
Durst to his brain out of his stomach croud. 

ISO. 
Those silent hours he spent in ardent Prayers, 
His evening and burnt sacrifice ; and by 
The quicic ascent of those mysterious stayers 
CUmb'd back again to beav'n's sublimity ; 
Where his Ejaculations busy grew, 
And thicker than th' Angelidc Legions flew. 

151. 

There pray'd he that the world might not disdain 
The gentle yoak he nteant on it to lay ; 
Nor force Heav'n to come down to Earth in vain. 
But to its now obtruding Bliss give way ; 

Hiat since Cfod to Jfmmamfy did stoop, 

Mam would into Diviniiy get up. 

15a. 
That generously^faigenuons Souls would dare 
To trace his hardy steps, though flesh and blood. 
With all the Pleas of Tenderness and Fear 
FuU in the way of their adventure stood : 
That Piity might Rtst hi Waieking find. 
And learn by Fasts \o fatten up the Mind, 

153- 
But now no leas than forty times the Sun, 
The Giant of the day, had from the east 



Prick'd forth his Golden-trapp^d Steeds, and run 

His never-wearied race into the west ; 
And watchful Vesper dress'd as oft with light 
The silver upers, and trim'd up the night. 

154. 
When thy wise Spouse, who all the seasons knew 
Of Heatfn*s abstrusest Dispensations, gave 
Th' unbridled Monster's Raving leave to shew 
Her teeth's full power. And how profound and brave 

This Counsel was. thou by and by shalt see ; 

For he on yielding built his Victory. 

155- 
As when the greedy Dog, who long had lain 
MusselM and chain'd in presence of his meat, 
The freedom of his feet and chaps doth gain ; 
For all the time he lost, he strives to eat. 
Flying like lightning on his breakfast, wbidi 
His hasty paws and jaws together catch : 

156. 

So Famin now rdeas'd to her own will, 
Reveng'd her long restraint with rampant spight ; 
And had it but been possible to kill 
Z^'i unoonsenting Lord, her furies' Might 
Had from the far less raging viUanies 
Of People, Priests, and PUai, snatch'd their prize. 

157. 
For with such fiell remorslessness she ne'r 
Had heartned up her Tallons and her Teeth, 
To wage her monstrous hunger's war, as here ; 
Nor with more confidence e'r promis'd Death 
To save his Sithe the labour : and some ground 
The ^d^ in JESUS saw her hopes to found. 

158. 

His tortnr'd Stomadi roar'd. his bowds clung, 

The heav'nly Graces of his count'nance fell ; 

Thirst parch'd his beauteous lips and burnt his tongue ; 

But by his own permission all : for well 
He knew that if he grew not fiaint and wan. 
Hell would suspect him to be more than Man. 

159. 

Hdl's jealous Prisue had conn'd all Fropketies 

Wbidi pmnted out a greater King than He ; 

A King decreed from Jesse's Root to rise. 

And quite extirpate his long Tyranny ; 
Upon his guard he stood, and watch'd to see 
The dangerous time, and who the Man should be. 

160. 
At first, thou know'st, that Quirt which sung to Earth 
Good Will and Peace, through Him did Terror dart ; 
The glorious rumor of the In/ants Birth 
No sooner stroke his ear, but broke his heart ; 
He 5fM<«w' J Jubilation echoed by 
A Groan, and Annans Preaching by a sigh. 



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CANTO IX. 



i6i. 
With cun'd nusghring thoughts he diew'd upon 
The Bmtdictus of old Zackary; 
The East's sweet Stat's tnadiatioii 
Blinded with horror his emasM eye ; 

His guilty Soul was rack'd in sad suspense 

To hear the Magy's pious Confidence. 

I6x 

But when those fiital Items rous'd his pride 
To take some course this danger to repress, 
And he had MerotTs desperate Sword employed ; 
He hop'd, and hngg'd, he had not stroke amiss : 
Besides, now thirty years could not discover 
Any great fear, he dream'd the worst was over. 

163. 

And nmch it chear'd Um to remember that 

Mutias was to be a Virgin's Som : 

Thy Lord, his insolence term'd Joseph's Brai, 

The saiy Carpenter's poor Urcheon ; 
Who liklier was some simple house to build 
Than raise a Kingdom and a scepter weild. 

164. 

Yea to that fond excess of boldness he 
Hardned his thoughu. as to imagin that 
Great DanUVs most punctual FroptUsy 
Had plainly miss'd its mark : nor cai^d he what 

The other Prophits talk'd. now He who set 

Messias' time, so foully fail'd in it 

165. 

But when on Jordan* s bank he heard and saw 
Heav'n's glorious Testimonials of its Son ; 
His sturdy Impudence began to thaw, 
New Terror through his curaid bones did run. 
Long 'twas e'r he could recollect a thought 
His drift of Mischief how to bring about. 

166. 

So when the flood-gates which have long stood ope» 

Their mouths with sudden resolutioa shut ; 

The checked streams, which flow'd with more than hope 

Of being Masters of that Pass, are put 
Unto their deepest plunge, and swell and roar 
In doubt which way their fiiry they shall pour. 

167. 

At last he hither tiacM him and set 

That fiiry Fawtin to begin the fi^t : 

Deep desperate anguish made him vex and iket. 

To see the vain contention of her spight 
For forty days together : but at length 
When she prevail'd, his pride renew'd its strength. 

168. 
On Ckands vain account he soor'd it up 
That JBSUS had sustain'd the fi^t till now : 



As he had done, when fkooi their piDan* top 

To dust he saw his i;0S^# /tffffr bow ; 
Because since then he found tome new ones able 
To stand, and Mtmpkis onoe more Is£s stable. 

169. 

And now his cue was oome, to HcH he stepp'd 
And op'd a Boa, which by his couch's side. 
He as the dearest of his Treasures kep'd : 
Ten thousand quaint Ddusions there were ty*d 
In one another's gentle snarles so strait 
Thai Cre^ her self from hence might learn deceit. 

17a 
There lay smooth-bondsh'd words, and quick mutations, 
Sleight-4iBnded Tricks, importunate Courtesies, 
Sweet kMks, ddkious shapes, and dainty fiufakms. 
False loves, invcnom'd fawnings, holy lies ; 
Those gorgeous frauds by which he hirM Rvt 
For one poor Apple Heav'n and God to leave. 

171. 
And those by which he holy Aaron made 
More silly than the Co^his Hear erected ; 
Those which unoonqner'd Smwuon's streogtfa betray 'd ; 
Those wfakh the Fort of Chastity d^ected 

In Davi£s heart ; and those whose witcheiy 

Charm'd his wise Son to fond Idolatry. 

173. 

This also was the cursM nest of those 

More wily wiles he forgM to entice 

The brave Inhabttanu of Heav'n to dote 

With his Conspiracy, when in the skies 
He drew his army iq> and ventured on 
Against the Thundet's mouth, and Goits own Son. 

All which he takes, and squ e es e s into one 
Conflux of more than quintessential Guiles : 
With which insidious Extrsctkm 
His thirst he quenches, and his bosom fills ; 
And so returns into this Desert, wett 
Stnffd with the best, because the wont, of HdL 

174. 

Impoial was Us Retinae, lor 

A thousand burly Potrs ^Pkl^gtion 

Had robb'd earth, air, and sea of all tiieir store 

Of braveries, and proudly put them on : 
All which were answcr'd by the rich attires 
Both of their haughty Horses aAd their Squires. 

But as the Cedar on tall LOam^s head 

Dishonon dwarfy shrubs that creep bdow ; 

And as th* illustrious Peaook's glories spread 

Disgrace upon the sparrow, or the Crow ; 
So now majesdck Satan's Port trsnsoended 
Whatever in his Lord^s might be commended. 



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175 



176. 

Twdve sable steeds, mmg as the old Rav'n's wing. 

Of even stature, and of equal pride ; 

Sons of the wind, or some more speedy thing, 

To his &ir Chariot all abreast were ty'd ; 
That in this royal Range each first might be, 
And jointly shew their several gallantry. 

177. 
Perpetual sparks of ^^goroasness they shot 
From their two fountains of prospective fire ; 
Their mighty NeigfaiAgs easy conquest got 
Of every noise, and made god Mars his quire ; 
And thus through Qouds both black and big as they 
Thunder and I4ghtning use to rend their way. 

178. 
As ebon-shining Bows, so bended were 
Their sinewy Necks ; their stomachs hoSM over 
In restless foaming scum, i^faldi ftr and near 
Fhmg their disdain ; their Pawing did discover 

With what impatience on the earth they trode 

And coveted to trace th' setherial rode. 

179. 
Their shoes were Silver, and' their bridles gold ; 
Thick pearl their velvet trappings studded ; their 
Luxuriant mains in cuiidd volumes roll'd 
Down to the ground, their starting Ears did wear 

Prowffimis HavoiB with rich jewels tip'd ; 

The way their fuQ Tails iorthdr Sovtfeigli swep'd. 

The Wheels were Cedar, clouted round about 
l^th Gold's more precious Rival, Chrysolite ; 
The Charet Almng, sumptuously wrought . • 
With an embroider'd conihienoe of bright 
Well'order'd Gems : upon which princely Seat 
Ptouder than it, sate BeUtbub ike Great. 

181. 

So Tiiam mounted on his flying throne 
Of flaming glory, sweepieth through the skies, 
OutgUtteriog all the combination 
Of his bright Coadi's raies by his own eyes 
And by 's imperial proper fire, exceeds 
The ardor of his Heav'n-devouring steeds. 

182. 
What Pomp in Alexander's count'nance reign'd, 
Or swell'd upon Nebuchadneuar*s brow ; 
Improv'd and to a loftier Tumor strain'd. 
To his own Aspect he tnui^>]anted now ; 

Having compounded in one stately ly 

The universal looks of Majesty. 

183. 
Disdain and Frowns the chief ingredients were. 
And k»ig ago he leam*d to manage them : 



Yet Grace and royal Mildness too were there. 
If need should be some soft Deceit to frame, 

With awful gravity deep flow'd his beard ; 

And he some wise and ancient Prince appear'd. 

184. 

A tripple crown of diamond on his head, 

Whoein was graven Earth, and Air, and Sea. 

His Empires provinces decipher^ ; 

So shameless his Presumption is, that be 
Counts Adanis Right his own, and writes his stile 
E'r since he snar'd him by the AfpUs Guile. 

185. 

Down firom his shoulders streamed to his feet 

A Mantle of estate, with Ermyns lin'd : 

Whose texture's glorious £eu9e so thick was set 

With oriental Gems, no eye could find 
What web it was, it being bravely lost 
In that magnificence of too much cost 

186. 
Three troops of Pages on his wheels did wait. 
The first in Asure, and in Green the next, 
The third in darkest Purple : which conceit 
Was but the Comment on his Crown's proud Text 
Ten thousand Curassiers, his dreadful Guard, 
Before him trotted, and his passage dear'd. 

187. 
Of Sumptures, Wains, and Carriages a Sea 
Mannerly roll'd its plainer flood behind : 
Which seem'd the Transmigration to be 
Of all the Earth, engage now to find 
Some other World whose larger bounds might give 
Leave to those straitned Swarms at large to live. 

188. 
Yet dar'd no justling Tumults interpose 
Amongst their throngs, whom silent Discipline 
Led on in decent state, though all sworn foes 
To modest Order's Rules which foirly join 
Troublous Disparities in Union's rest : 
Omfnnon's Prince well knows this Peace is best. 

189. 

In this magnifick Port, his Progress He 
Gravely pretended through his Earth to take : 
That beaten Circuit, where incessantly 
Some hellish bus'ness kept his Rage awake : 
But now more dangerous was this Ljon grown 
Than when he ranged Roaring up and down. 

190. 

For though that barbarous Roar loud Terror spoke. 

Withal it gave fiur warning to beware ; 

But when majestick Grace and Order cloak 

His thievish Enterprise, He charmeth fear 
Too fiast asleep, to think a King in so 
Great pomp, a stealing would, and cheating go. 



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CAMTOIX. 



191. 

See'st thoQ that radul place, that garden where 

Eternal Batrennen deep^ooted grows ; 

Where unrelenting flints and pebles are 

Both sofl and frnJt? that Scene thy Saviomr dioic 
Wherein to wrestle with keen Pamim, and 
Gfant her free leave on her own ground to stand. 

193. 
And hither maich'd that Pompous Pagmhy : 
Whose surly Van when they with JESUS met, 
Delgn'd not poor looking Him the charity 
Of half an eye. but proudlier forward set : 
For those inferior vulgar Feimds had not 
Been privy to their Scvertign Cktattr^s Plot. 

193. 
But Satan, though his spightfiil heart did leap 
For joy to see how in his iallen cheeks 
Hmmgtr had writ her cnid conquest deep ; 
With (ainM princely pitty yet off breaks 

His course : the Steeds, in foaming sooni to slay. 

Their bridles champ'd. and stamp'd upon their way. 

194. 

But He more gentle seem'd than they were fierce ; 

For. fixing on thy Lord his yearning eyes. 

His breast he smote in shew of deep remorse. 

His grscious head he sadly shak6d thrice, 
And then as oft to heav'n he lookM up, 
And cunning tears at eveiy look did drop. 

195. 
He hop'd the pinM Man would bend his knee 
(Too feeble long to stand.) and succour crave 
Whilst jret he could receive : he hop'd that He 
Would ope his mouth, since so did now his Grave : 

But Him too stout be found to buckle down ; 

He nobly held his tongue, and held his own. 

196. 

With that, the royal TtmfUr thus began : 

My Pity never was till now neglected 

By any He who wore the face of Man ; 

Much less by such whom Famin had d^ected 
Below the looks of human life. And yet 
Perhi^ some Mystery I now have met 

197. 
That with contented patience thou canst be 
The miserable Prey of Famin, and 
Forbear (if not disdain) to ask of me 
Who with all courteous Succour ready sund. 

Implies thy strength, wbate'r thy foce appear. 

Higher to move than in an human sphere. 

198. 

Where-e'r she had it, Pnmor sent of late 
A strange Relation to my ear, which she 



Protest she took both from the leaves of FaU, 
And from experinestal Certainty : 

'Twas, that the Sono/GodhAidL chang'd his Hoiiie» 

And privately on earth to sojourn come. 

199- 

She added. That bis gaib was plain and mean. 

Since he was but a Pilgrim here bekyw ; 

And rather came to see than to be seen. 

As wisest Tkavellers are wont to do. 
But more she told me not ; peiiiaps, that I 
And my good fortune might the rest desay. 

200. 
I would be kyth it should reported be 
In heav'n, to my Realm's everlastiog shame. 
That this renown'd celestial Prina, when He 
To any of my territories came, 
Should taste no aigument to make him know 
And say at home. Tkt World is kind htkm. 

30I. 
For mudi my Honor it ooooems, and me. 
That worthy Entertainment should attend 
Sudi migh^ Strangirs: and, if thou be He, 
Take notice thou hast met a royal friend ; 

A friend both able and resolVd to prove 

That thou all Gksiy hast not left abooi. 

• ao3. 

But yet these daep-plow'd wrinkles ill would suit 
My solemn forsbead, and this reverend Snow 
My head and beard. If Rashness should oooftite 
Those sage and sober Tokens ; if I now 
Who purehas'd long ago the high esteem 
Of Grav and Wiu, Aaaid Ught and Credulous 



203. 

Then since my princely Credit pleadeth for 

A dear Probation, you may not deny 

Some rational Assurance who you are ; 

Nor can that Evidence be seal'd, but by 
Some potent Demonstration, that to you 
As to their Sovereign, Natmr^s Staiuiis bow. 

304. 
If you be that great He, Gods mighty Son, 
(And God forbid you sudi a Truth should hide,) 
Let it suffice your fast thus £u- has run, 
And now a breakfaist for your self provide : 

Lo here a Board with Pebles ready spread. 

Speak but the word, and make them k)aves of bread. 

205. 
The TemfUr so. JESUS wisdy saw 
How he suspended was in jealous Doubts, 
And by this Artifice contrive how 
To extrecate his snarl'd perplexM thoughts : 
His heav'nly Prudence therefore took a course 
On 's hellish Craft a darker Mist to force. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



177 



206. 

For as a noUe Champion when the Blow 

Flieth with deadly aim against liis heart, 

MHth waiejr fauckkr hack again doth throw 

The intercepted and deoeiv6d Dart : 
Sodidtlqri^^OTMrbyGMr^unconqner'd Word, 
His ready shield against the TtrnpU/s Sword. 

207. 
'7Vr«f)K«feii. that the life of Man, said He, 
Shall lean not only on the sta£f of Bread, 
But on a stronger steadier Prop, and be 
^ GM*! more wholaom Word weevanSty Mu 

What need we loayes our Hunger's nge to still? 

FtaoL GptTs Mouth floweth that which Man's will fill 

20a. 

O most impenetrable Buckler I how 

Slender an Help is tripple steel to thee I 

SeaVn-times-redoubled Adamant must bow 

To thy less vulnerable Duiity. 
O Striptmre/ wJkai vain straws andftatkirs art 
GoUaXs Aims, if they with thee compare I 

This P^fdu, this is that victorious SkUU, 
Which sure Protection can on thee bestow, 
Though an Hell's Troops pitch'd in a martial field 
ConqiirM have, and sworn thy Overthrow. 
Its noUe use thy Spouu dedar'd to thee, 
Who Ibqgfat with none but this Artillery. 

2ia 
With this he fought, who Thunder had at call 
And all Heav'n's Hosts attending his Command : 
No strength would he employ, but what might &11 
Within the reach of thy short feeble hand. 
Thou canst not thunder : yet his sacred Word 
Thou well mayest wield, and wound ev'n SaUm's 
Sword, 

211. 

But as the greedy Wolf, once beaten back ; 

By that repulse is but enraged to 

Rebound with doubled spight, and fieroelier make 

His fiesh encounter : angry Satan so 
Brus'd by this fiJl, and vexM at the pain, 
Plucks up his spirits and ventures on again. 

212. 

Yet as he cfaarg'd, he on the sudden felt 

His Confidence's foot begin to slip ; 

Bold was his 1^^ but timorous his Guilt ; 

And, though he thought not on 't, he bit his lip. 
His Jealousy at last advis'd his Wrath 
Cahnly to march, and in the safest path. 

213. 
His Plot now therefore slylyer driving on, 
He plausibly pretends this sullen Place 

46 



To be the Stage where Heav'n's illustrious Son 
Should act his Greatness, too unworthy was ; 

And in high courtship hasts to change this mean 

And despicable, for a gallant Scene. 

214. 

For as a stragling Cloud came by that way, 

He, as th' usurping Monarch of the air. 

His leisure sternly beckned it to stay, 

And so gat up into his flying chair ; 
Taking thy Lord with him, who was content 
To try what by this new design he ment. 

215. 

Nodding the next VHnd then on him to wait, 
He through the welkin scour'd, and quickly came 
(For now his way all open lay and streight,) 
To this long journey's but, Jorusalem ; 
Where on the Temple's highest Spire he set 
Him who, he fear'd, might prove the God of it. 

216. 

Then to his work alone he fell ; his Train 
Being left bdiind, and chaigM to attend 
Their King's return : for much he did disdain/ 
In case he could not now atchieve his end. 
His envious Elves again should witness how 
A starvM Man Hell's Sovereign overthrew. 

217. 
He wisely ponder'd that the Arms whereby 
Thy Spouse had him repuls'd, the mightiest were ; 
And therefore cunningly resolv'd to try 
If he could Scripture bow to serve his war. 
O wit of deepest Hell, which makes a Sword 
Of Gods own Word, to fight with God the Word. 

218 
Appofaited thus : I grant, said he, that thy 
Reply was true, yet answer'd not my Doubts. 
Lo here a scene where thou may'st satisfy 
By one Experiment all scrupulous thoughts. 

If God thy &ther be, leap down firom hence, 

In witness of thy filial Confidence. 

219. 
Is it not Written, that He shall oonunand 
His Angels' trusty Care to wait on thee. 
And with a watchiiil ready-stretch^ hand 
In eveiy Danger's sute thy bail to be, 

That no rude stone with churlish shock may meet 

(So tender is He) thy secured feet? 

22a 
Mark Psyche, mark the Ckeater^s craft, how he 
Mangles the Text, and skips what spoils his plot : 
In all thy ways they shall thy Keepers be ; 
So ran the tenor of that Scripture : but 
He knew that desperate Fiedpices were 
No Ways for Men who walk'd in holy fear. 



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CANTO IX. 



221. 

Be sure H move thee not, if henoeforth thou 
See'st «oy of his Urdieons Serif tmrt spit : 
Who by their Master's Jiigling oopy know 
Both bow to dip and to adulterate it : 
Or else sodi peevish conning glooes make 
As it against it self shaU force to speak. 

222. 

They this Authority will quote, to throw 

That royil Power flat it first set up ; 

And from their thrones uige sacred Kings to bow, 

And to their reverend lyes make Scepters stoop : 
By this the Ckmrth her self they from her own 
Fair pinnacle will tiy to tumble down. 

223. 

But with another ^matM Ttxt thy L»rd 
Nobly confuted him, and thus reply'd : 
This Law 's enacted in th' anthentick IVord, 
Thou skaU not Umpt thy God: and Heav'n forbid 
That I should dare his Providence, and think 
When down I plunge my self, I cannot sink. 

224. 

Perhaps thy wonder asks, why Satan, now 
He had on Danger's brink thy Savior set, 
Brideled his fury, and forbore to throw 
Him headlong thence : but thou must not foiget 
That still his guilty breast was jealous least 
His foe at force of anns might get the best. 

225. 

Alas the chain of all his power is short : 
Believe it PsyclU, there 's no mortal Wight 
But, if resolv'd to hold his Virtues' fort. 
May tire his si^ge, and all his onsetes dight : 
But silly Cowards to his strength make way 
Whilst they by lasy fears themselves betray. 

226. 

RepulsM thus, the TM^ilir in his heart 
Stifl'd his grief and smothered his shame : 
And now inforc'd to act another part, 
Leap'd on the doud upon whose back be came, 
With which he through Air's wondring regions 
Hurrying thy patient Lord along with him. 

227. 
To his expecting Train be swum ; for now 
Put to his last reserve of plots, he meat 
To venture all at one great cast ; and though 
Still loth his Elves should see him foild. he went 

With desperate resolution to the fight ; 

Dear was his credit, but more dear his spight. 

228. 
Up to a Mount he march'd, whose stately head 
DespisM Bason, Carmei, Ls^anus, 



Tbe^^where I^Milfr always keeps his bed. 

With Pendle, QO^, Atlas, Caucasus. 
And all the proudest cliffs of Ararat 
Where Noak*s floating Ark first footing got 

229. 

A Mount whidi on the highest Clouds k>ok'd down. 

And saw all kinds of Weather iisr bekm ; 

A Mount which rose like Earth's hnperial Chmn. 

Where never any Wind aspir'd to blow ; 
A Mount which bravely reach'd at heav'n and made 
Far distant Countrys subject to its shade. 

Arrivi6d there ; with three new plates of brass 

His never-blushing front he fortify'd ; 

Being now upon an Enterprise whidi was 

Brother to that in impudence and pride 
When arm'd with spigfatful fury and disdain 
He ventur'd to assail Heav*n*s Sovereign. 

231. 
The same great Son it was of Glof^s Patker, 
To whom his stomach then refus'd to yidd 
¥nt and ingenuous homage, cfaooshig rather 
To try it with him in a pitched fidd. 
Fool, who though beat at first, no warning took 
For what be was, in foUowiitg fights to look. 

A massy throne of beaten gold upon 

A pavement of refinM silver stood ; 

Whidi round about that gotgao u s region 

Pour6d the plenitude of Glory's flood. 
Triumphant Arcs and CoUmnns on each side 
In Umrd wreaths hid and display'd thdr pride. 

233- 

Ten thousand splendid things, which bravdy check'd 

The brightest Diamond's count'nanoe, as obscure ; 

With dasdhtg Awe and Majesty bedeck'd 

A spacious Canopy, wfaidi fiutned sure 
Upon the Stars, its ndgfaboois, hover'd right 
Above the throne, and vaUd it o'er with light. 

234. 

Here Satan pHch'd him down : when lo, the crew 

Of his attending Imps in humble guise 

Themsdves before his radiant footstool threw 

Adoring him with millions of Lies : 
Nor durst they from the pavement stir, until 
His Nod had signify'd his giadons WiU. 

235- 
Then reaching forth his hand, he gave the sign 
To that brave Apparition which he 
By sprightfiil art had tutor'd to combine 
With his profound but glorious Forgery : 
One moment did the feat ; for all the Scene 
Before his hand was quite stretch'd out, came in. 



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CANTO IX. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVERS MYSTERY. 



179 



236. 
A mighty Gkb$ roU'd fsEuriy up the hill, 
Where, upon Poles unknown, it tum'd before 
His throne's proud fiuse, and to that bulk did swell 
That afl the Worid's full countenance it wore. 
No Conjuntions ever grew so strong 
As in this Witcherie's universal Throng. 

237. 

There might you see the East's iHustrious shore, 

The Western Cohmms and th' Atktntick Sea ; 

The Snow's and Ice's never thawing store 

High heapM in the north Extremity ; 
The Dogstar's Empire ; and the LyHan stnuMl 
Whore endless Summer boileth in the sand. 

238. 
There precious Indta washed up his gems, 
There wealthy Tagus pav'd his shores with gold. 
There VisHUa look'd brave in silver streams, 
There GaMga, IsUr, and Or^mtts roU'd, 
Hydaspes, Tamais, Rkon€, Hknu, Nigtr, Po^ 
Bt^hraiiSt Tigris, NiU, and thousand moe. 

239- 
in milk and honey there swum PaUstint^ 
There shadow'd with her odoriferous Cloud, 
AraHa's Felicity did shine ; 
There Scytkia in her furs her self did shroud ; 
There Neptune chose thine AUwm for his bride. 
And plac'd her, as a better World, asid& 

240. 
There dwelt all Countries which your Traffick knows, 
And more than yet must to its knowledge come : 
But when young Avarice past her nonage grows, 
And thinks her thirsty Purse hath more than room 
For this scant World, another shall be found, 
Whidi yet the West in ignorance hath drown'd. 

241. 
But in this ample Pageant was display'd 
That fiUal World which future times shall see 
By venturous Columbus* art betray'd 
To Christian Covetousness and Cruelty. 
(O why should Christians' Estimation hold 
The Western Souls less dear than Western QoU 1) 

242. 

Yea, and those vaster Pegums, which fiur 

FVom Africk and firom Asia ran away. 

And the South* s remoter bosom were 

Lock'd up and treasur6d so dose, that they 
Shall longest 'scape Disooverie's reach, and be 
Ftom Navigation's bold incroachmenu free. 

243- 

No sooner had the Globe tum'd round about, 
And every Kingdom's proudest Gkxry shown : 



But from his Rome Tiberius stepped out ; 

And humbling from his bead to 's hand, his Crown, 
With fear and reverence his approaches made 
To Sat«m*s footstool, where his lips he laid. 

244. 

Then havtag prefttc'd by that lowly kiss, 

Behold, dread Sir, my Diadem, said he, 

Bows to thy royal Pedestal : by this 

The highest of Assurances, to Thee 
I, who am hi thy Roman World thy great 
Viceroy, my homage tender at thy feet. 

245. 
Impowred by thy sovereign Might alone 
Th' Assyrian Lyon made the World his prey : 
By thee the Persian Beasts Dommion 
Through all the forests of the earth made way : 

By Thee the Grecian Leopard soaich'd all this. 

And stoutly wish'd another World were his. 

246. 
By Thee the Iron-Jaw* d ten^Aomid Beast, 
The martial Roman, so prevailing grew, 
That having torn and swallow'd all the rest, 
He with the Sun victoriously flew 
About the World, which now sits safe and sings 
Under the shadow of our Bogle's wings. 

247. 

By Thee great Julius did our Empire found ; 

By Thee Augustus fully rais'd its frame ; 

By Thee were these my loyal Temples crown'd 

With this, the shadow of thy Diadem. 
O may thy Vassal with thy &vonr, and 
Thy Blessing, wear the Gift of thme own hand. 

248. 
So with a thousand Holocausts will I 
Make fat thy holy Altars mom and night : 
So my imperial yoke shall always lie 
Upon my Subjects' shoulders firm, and light, 
Whilst I by thy anspidous Influence 
Rdgn both of Justice and of mildnfBss Prince. 

249. 
Tiberius here some gracious nod expected. 
As his Commission to resume his Crown. 
But strait he saw his flattering Suit rejected, 
And his fidr hopes damp'd by a doudy frown : 
Which doud mto a suddain Tempest broke, 
Whilst Satan thus his indignation spoke. 

25a 
Thou hast depos'd thy sdf, Tiberius, by 
Acknowledgmg that I thy Sovereign am : 
For how shall I intrust a Wortd hi thy 
Luxuriant lasy hand, who hither came 

Upon no business but a Visitation ; 

Which bids the Bartk now look for Reformation. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CAMTOIX. 



251. 
And w«Il it may : Alas poor Sartk, that I 
So long dday'd to visit licUy Tbee, 
Througfa most uihappy oonlideiioe that my 
Vicigtrmi had his C^i known, and Mt. 
Bat though ignoble He betrays his trust. 
I stiU must be my self, and that is Just 

35a. 

Then since my Name, my Honor, and my Caie 
Of ray dear WofM all summon me to find 
Some M€ro*s worthy Temples, which may wear 
That Crown according to my prinody mind, 
Be 't so : and thou Tiberius, thank my love 
That I with it thy head do not remove. 

353- 
Heie turning to thy Spouu his kinder eye, 
My comteous fortune I must thank, said He, 
Who in my Progress hath so loddly 
To my not poor acquaintance offered thee. 
I tittle thought, till this survey I took. 
That I a new Idtuttmamt had to look. 

354. 
By Him I see how easily Princes slide 
Down the glib paths of heedless Luxury : 
And what can silly People do, whose guide 
Leads them the way to Ruin have not I 
Just cause to choose some sober Man whose care 
May stop that vidons desperate career 1 

255- 

Now whether thou art Som to God, or no. 
Surely thou spring'st from some heroick Race ; 
The noblest Rays of Honor sparkle so 
In thy though |^n6d yet most princely &oe : 
Although thy Modaty conceals thy Birth, 
And Parentage, it cannot doud thy worth. 

256. 
And yet that Virhu *s precious too ; for well 
I know that stomachiul Ambition threw 
From Heav'n's high Turret to profoundest Hell 
Disdainful Lmci/gr and all his Crew. 
But still the miracle which doth advance 
My wonder highest, is thy Tem/trama. 

257. 
That ExeilUmci, alone can never dwell. 
But proves the fertile spring of all the rest. 
How readily a temperate Prince may quell 
Sin's breeding Suifeiu in their nasty nest, 
Whilst all his Life's an exemplary Law 
Which sweetly leads, when Statutes cannot draw 1 

And sttdi a Mnce, and none but such, can cure 
The wide Contagion which rank vice hath spread 



On this poor Age : nor caa my k»ve < 

Longer delay, since I am fumishM 
^^th TkUt whose merits on my Justice call 
To make thee 2>^uty </ aU HUs A IL 

259. 
Nay moie than so : Thou seest how Age doth grow 
Upon my weary beck ; and I confess 
I dqyed feel my sdf and tirM now 
With QUoKWt Sweeu and Honor's Weight, no less 

Than with my years, and could contented be 

To end my days in quiet Privacy. 

26a 
Nor must it be in vain, that I have found 
An Hero on whose shoulders safely I 
&fay trust the Burden of my Cares, and ground 
Just hopes of all my World's felkaty. 
Whoefoce this free and solemn Act I make 
Before Heav'n's bee whkh I to witness take : 

261. 

First, I bequeath to Thee TibaHut* Qnown ; 
To wfakdi imperial Rowt/s vast Ptow'r is ty'd : 
Next I surrender to thine Head mine own 
High Diadem : for thou henceforth shalt ride 
In this my royal Chariot, and run 
In tkiiu own Orb together with the Sun, 

262. 
For wheresoe'r he sets or rises. He 
Shall upon none but thy Dominions shine. 
His i/AfAr loQg ago t>equeath'd to me 
This Monarchy below ; and what is mine 

Though I to whom I please might give, yet thy 

Desert binds up my choke's liberty. 

263. 
These (Tories which inridi that roIUng Ai/f 
Are but the beams of that which shall be thine. 
The Kingdoms which are spread from pole to pole. 
Shall in thy universal Realm combine : 

And in requital of thy noble Fasi 

The Worid shall join its store to dress thy feast. 

264. 
My Legkms here shall swear, so shall my Peers, 
(And I my sdf win tender them the oath,) 
All^gianoe both to Thee, and to thy Hdis. 
Yea to complete my grand Donation, both 

My shrines and Temples I to thee resign ; 

No A^osM Shan there ador6d be but 7Mw. 

265. 

Nor wOl I any constant homage tie 
To this my Grant; for alll mean to ask 
Is coe bare token of thy thanks, whkh I 
As ample Play win construe ; and this task 
ShaU be as short as easy : /all but dtnm 
And worship nu, and aU the World's thine own. 



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CANTO IX 



PSYCHE: OR LOVERS MYSTERY. 



i8i 



26d 
So spake the ICingcfcrafl: whose staring Tnun 
Qoestioii'd the honesty of their own eyes, 
In wfaldi this Frina eiect appear'd so plain 
And poor a wonn : for these stzai^ fiaUades 
O wDy BiiMtbmi were too profound 
For their short Apprehensions to sound. 

267. 

But as the gentle sweetly-swelling Sia 

Whidi rolls above the Spheres, when daring Men 

AiEnonted God with towring ^^llany, 

Foigot its ever-polish'd smiles, and in 
Tempestons violeBoe bieakiag through the shoes 
Of Hea^'n. a flood of death on earth did pouie. 

268. 
So thy provokM Sfoua, who never yet 
Had sofier'd frowns to gather on his brow, 
An angry look against the Tempter knit, 
And with disdainful Answer made bfan know 
That an his Pageantry could not conceal 
His ugly self who fouler makes his HelL 

269. 
BoUtSdAMT, 'tis enough that I, said he, 
Thus Vmg have seen and bom thine insolence ; 
Lo I defie thy foolish Baits and Thee 
Vainer than they : hence fond Impostor, hence 
Behind my back, and there thy shameless pride 
(If any place may hide it) learn to hide. 

27a 
Do's not Religion's Law, the Serif tun, say, 
Thine Adoratton thou to God shalt give, 
And at his feet alone thy service pay ? 
AD Heav'n foibid that I should Him bereve 

Of his due homage, and fanbexil it 

Upon the 2>raii/ of th' infernal Pit. 

271. 
As when on Sodom* s Impudence of old 
Heav'n pour'd iu fire to purge their lustful flames, 
The wretched Town repented not, yet howl'd 
And mix'd its tears amongst the brimstone streams ; 
But all in vahi, for Men and City in 
One funeral pile were buried with their Sin. 

272. 

So at the Lightnhig of thy Lorffs Reply 

This frighted Qlobe of Cheats made haste to melt 

And nothing of this Universal Lye 

Remain'd, but Ashes ; whose strong vapor smelt 
So hideously rank, that ev'n the steam 
Of SHnch her self, to this would Odours seem. 

273- 
Confounded Saiam backward from his throne 
Fell down the Mount, and tumbled towards hell : 



To all the Deeps he by his bellowing Groan 

Dismally rung his w(^]l Comming's knelL 
And in his fiUl, his Horns, and Tall, and Claws 
Brake out ; so did the Sulphure from his Jaws. 

274. 

His yelling Peers and lamentable Crew 

Of Lq^ons, justled headlong after Him : 

Presenting to thy Lord^s victorious view 

A Copy of that sight, when from the brim 
Of higliest Heav'n their King with them He beat 
Down to the bottom of their damnM Seat. 

275. 
Thus changed was the scene : and Satan who 
Sought by his God to be ador6d, pay'd 
That God this seemly Adoration. So 
Great JESU, may all Treasons be betray'd ; 

So may all Rebels find their shameless feet 

Snarled for evermore in their own Net. 

276. 

In these three Conflicts, Heav'n with tender eye 

Upon iu Champion waited ; yet reliev'd 

Him with no Seconds, till the Victory 

By his own single valour was atcfaiev'd : 
But then flew down an Host, whose highstrain'd Lays 
Back to the spheres retum'd the Victor's praise. 

O Psy€ke, had'st thou heard their royal Song, 
Thou might'st have leam'd how we above employ 
Our Uessdd time, where on each warbling Tongue 
Sit endless Raptures of excessive Joy ; 
Whilst eveiy hearty Angel, as he sings. 
Claps his Applause with his exultant wings. 

278. 
Their Gratulation ended ; on their knees 
A sumptuous Banquet they to him present, 
Stor'd with the choioe of all varieties 
Which best might recompense his rigid Lent: 

And He, in whom all princely graces reign. 

Was pleas'd their ministry not to disdain. 

279. 

But when He thus had broke his mighty /»/, 

The/nry which so long possest his breast 

Impatient fretting Famin, out he cast. 

Remanding her unto her odious Nest ; 
And bid an Angel tie her in that chain, 
When be had kick'd her to her den again. 

280. 
There must she dwell past hopes of gitting loose 
But when He 's pleas'd (because displeas'd.) to let 
Vengeance break out on his relentless foes 
Whom lusty fatness makes too bold and great 

To be his SubjecU, and adore a Prince 

Who in lus Laws enacteth Abstinence, 



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l82 



PSYCHE: OR LOVETS MYSTERY. 



GAMTOIX. 



381. 
But from the Lisu of this renownM fight 
Th' eternal Spirifs Conduct wafted Hfan 
To GaliU£s known ooasu : to which he might 
As soon on his own Power's wings have swum ; 
But Htavn was studious to attend him, and 
In his great bus'ness Joy'd to have a hand. 

283. 
Another World of wonders will appear 
When we shall launch hito that Lqpend's Sea ? 
But now repose and cheer thy spirits here 
Against that Voyage : for thy Piety 
Shall take at leisure solemn time and place 
Wherein thy Sfoms^sfasHmg sUps to trace. 

283. 

This said ; He spread his ready wing before 
His Pupil, and on that fisir uble set, 



Out of his own unseen but oopious Hare 
A neat supply of chastly-pleasant meat. 

She blest her Lord, whose iavour gianted her 

A Buiquet od his own Fast's theater. 

But whilst on thoM cnemal Gates she fed. 

Her Soul was sitting at a secret Feast 

With aU this 5i^m' J Dainties ftamishM 

Which faithful Mtmory anew had drett. 
And wdl she knew (which mudi advanc'd the Cheer) 
Her Spomu did Cut not for Hhnself but Her. 

285. 
And now, sinee Phttms baitaed to his rest 
And smoak'd already in the Western Deep, 
Phylax his chariot curtains drew, and prest 
The Virgin's eyes to do as mudi by Sleep : 
One wing beneath, and one above her head 
He laid, and tum'd her Board into her Bed. 



NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Sunza 7* 1* 3i ' TkiirHmpUst viUsi Slavu,* i.i, being 
Christians. The ' slave ' inscriptions in the Catacombs 
and family-tombs of Rome are extremely hiteresting and 
pathetic. 

St. 14, L 9, ' Griftn's* - vulture? but see Gk)ssurial 
Index, «.v. : L 6, ^sentem^d/dod'^QKoaiAQ, III. v. 14. 

St. 15.1.6, '/Sa«i!*<^arni/Oli7ff,' etc. -the proverbial 
saying ' The burnt child dreads the fire.' 

St. aa, L 6, ' vcyag€ ' — journey. 

St. 30, L 6, ' Fond' - foolish. 

St. 3a, 1. a, * Lists' - courses. 

St. 38, 1 s, 'to /fir' * compared with her. 

St 41, 1. 3. '/0r<m#«Mtf'— portentous elongated, r.g, 

St. 49, L X, *clMng'up' — shrivelled. 

St. 50, 1. 5, 'crimtiling'—ste Glossarial Index, s.v, 

St. 60, 1. 6, */ulJlir - fiU full. 

St. 63, L X, '/^»r/|^r(r'x*— see full note in Glosaarial 
Index, s.v, 

St 64, 1. 4, * BouUmy*-^Hd, 

St. 69, 1. 5, ' Vipers*^ the old myth that they gnawed 
their way to ' birth ' and so killed their parent 

St 70, 1. 3, ' Traduction * — descent, kin. 

St 81, 1. 3, *corsive' ^ corrosive. 

St 86, L s, • thi€vish Night'— w ' thievish minutes ' 
(AU's WeU, ii. 1). 

St 100, 1. I, * Salamanders '— see Glossarial Index, 
s,v. 

St 101, 1. I, * Chamelions'-^ibid, 

St 106, I. 1, * Asses ' — misprinted ' Ashes ' in the 
original. 



St. Ill, L X, ' C^jfwvrw*— «ee (Hoanrial Index, s.v, 
St 109, L 3, 'd^«a/'» becoming— and see St x88,L 3. 
St 139^ 1. 8, ' dtvctos ' — devotees. 
St X40, L 9, ' touting* « stooping. 
St X49, 1. 4, ' lagifd ' « lugg'd, as before. 
St 174, L a, '^r^'— see Gkxsarial Index, s,v. 
St 176, L X, *smug*^4Hd. 

St x8o, L X, 'elomted ' - thickened, as In ' ckmted 
cream, etc 

St X87, L X, 'Sumptmres' •- magnificence, as befpre. 
St aos, L 4, *snarVd' ^ entangled. 
St ao7, L 3, '//InMjfvr '— oisprinted * strongest ' in the 
original 

St ao8, L 4, 'Dmrity' — dunhkobtB, 
St 8x5, L 4, 'te/' »goal (arrow-«naxk). 
St aai, L 9, * C/ftkeoi$s*—9iee Olonarial Index, i.v. 
St 895, L X, 'Atas ' = an hiteijection not always 
meaning regret or sorrow. 
St 898, L 4, ' Pendte'-'^et Glosaarial Index, s.v. 

St. 939, 1. 5, * Arcs * — arches, being printed ' are's ' 
in tlie original. 

St 934, L 9, ' Imps '—see full note in Glossarial In- 
dex, s.v, 

St 945, L 5, ' Grecian Leopard ' « Alexander the 
Great 

St 954, 1. 9, 'glib ' » smooth— see Gtossarial Index, 
under 'glibbest' 



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CANTO X. 
The Marvels. 



The ARGUMENT. 

LOVB U cmtvinci tkt World in wMom to lay 
Tk€ tnasmrt of Us Hopes and Con/Uma, 
Freves fy a full and glorious Display 
What mndeniabU Onmipotenoe 

DmtU in kis Hand, wkich aiway skelter spread 

On tkoH who to its SasictuaryJUd, 



IT is not BeoMty, which its bltish doth owe 
To Fix and Pencil's almes : it is no King 
Who maiuth on the stage a russling show, 
And thunders big imperious words which ring 
With awful noise about the Scene, when he 
By his next Exit must a Beggar be. 



AD is not (^Af that in a glistering ray 

Fairiy conceals iu foul hipocrisy. 

The garish Meteors, though they display 

IU^4x>ld]y-6hining Proofs, will never be 
Own'd by the Stars for faretheren ; nor can 
The Apo, with all his tricks, be genuin Man, 



To MaximiMan when the Almain Sagle 
On her strange wings Art's stately homage bare, 
The brave Dissembler only did hiveagle 
Spectator's fiaith : for though her pinions were 
Ttttor'd by sprightful springs the air to cut, 
Alas, ev'n whilst she flew she livdd not 



The heady Rebel, though all Texts he skrews 

To force from Thith confession of a Lye ; 

Though at the bar of Natures Laws he sues 

To Justify unnatural Uierty: 
Thoqgh Consdenoe and Religion, the things 
He overthrows, he for his groundwork brings ; 



Thou^ from Sneeess (a firmer Argument 
For an th' Odrysian Chiistian-hating Race, ) 



He pleads the sanctity of his Intent, 

And makes Heav'n Patron of his hell-bred Cause : 
In vain strives to transform his hideous Sin, 
Which makes htan stm to Lucifer akin. 

6. 
The staring WtMMOsrd never yet could by 
His mumbling Charms, his heav'n-affionting Wand, 
His bariljarous Words and Figures, form a Lye 
Able against the fajot of Truth to stand : 
Nor can his Master Satan though all HeU 
He tends or blends, atchieve a Miracle, 



Oft has he ventur'd and strove hard to tread 
In those almighty Steps of Heav'n ; but still 
The Paces were so wide, that all he did 
Was but the proof of his aspiring WIU. 
His Wonders never reach'd above Deceits, 
With which imprudent eyes and hearts be cheats. 

8. 

For how can he who is himself a Part 

Of Natures empire, and must tankM stand 

In his created dass ; by any art 

His finite Orbs activity transcend ! 
What Power of his own can help his Pride 
Over his Being's ^MMMEecf head to ride I 



God, God alone is King of Nature; and 
Nature no Sovereign but her own will know : 
Her ear no sooner drinks in His Command, 
But strait her knees, and heart, and statutes bow : 

For, an things must be Natural, says she. 

Which my Creator^ s Voice injoineth me. 

la 
That Voice the Fountain was whence first she sprang. 
And ever sfaioe hath been the Rule whereby 
She steers her loyal course. That Voice which rung 
So loud as to wake Vacuity 
Into a fun and mighty Worid, at ease 
&fay in its Plurts work Metamorphosies. 



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II. 
Yet seldom it unsbeaths its Power, but when 
Some high and singukr Design 's in hand. 
Some MysUry of potent Imv€ : and then 
The Center dares not in itt passage stand. 
But must and will give way, and to the top 
Of Heaven, in meek submission hasten up. 

12. 
For what 's the Center's dose-shrunk knot ; or what 
AH Heav'n and Earth which round about it ctti^. 
If in an equal righteous hallanrf put 
With Lpvi, that Uttle Word but mighty Thing? 
Since they, themselves to Lavt's sole pleasure ow. 
How can they to his WOl refuse to bow? 

13. 

Full low they bow'd to it, when from the yoke 
Of cruel Pharaoh, IsroiTs Sted it drew : 
Ten £unous blows it gave, and every stroke 
Some part of Nature in proud Egypt slew : 
At length it roU'd the Sea upon an heap, 
And op'd the Rebel's graves amidst the Deep. 

14. 

This fertile made the dry-starv'd Wiidinuss 
In MiracUs : This of Heav'n-kindled flames 
For SimWs Temples wreath'd an awful Dress : 
This taught th' unlikely Ifoeh to melt in streams, 
Bidding the Desert flow, as it before 
Had chaig'd the Sea to start from either alioie. 

IS- 

This order'd Heav'n to rain down Angsis* Bnad, 

And every morning laithfully fulfil 

That wonderous task ; whence Earth's wide board w 
spread 

With candied Cates. which Banquet lasted till 
The liquorish Sun delighted with the tast 
On that Ambrosia, daily broke bis last. 

16. 

This made the Wind turn Caterer, and blow 

The People Flesh : This gave the Clastd command 

By day as usher in their front to go 

With cooling shades : 7*/!^ built that walking, and 
Bright-flaming Filiar, whose c<mvoying Light 
Commis6k>n had to banish Night from Night 

17. 
The Priesfs dread feet This awM Jordan to 
Forbear to touch, though through his heart they past 
This arm'd meer Sound against proud Jericho 
And storm'd the City by poor Tirumpet's Blast, 
Whilst those huge Bulwarks which all Rama did 
Fell prostrate down, and yidkled to the Horn. 

18. 
By This more Pdwer to a feebler Sound, 
The sukgle Voice of Josua, was given ; 



Which domineered amidst the stany Round, 
Against Day's GyasU barracadoing Heav'n. 
This made the Ckwds their gentle drops focget 
And atORDS of Stones on IsroiFt Enemies spiL 

19. 
For two and forty Months This gave the Keys 
Of Rain's vast store-house to BKai hand ; 
No humid TkaveUer durit trace the skies 
Without a Pus from Him. whose ttem command 
Quite hanlning Nature, plated all the Face 
Of Earth with Iron, and of Heav'n with brass. 

2a 
TTds TUs impower^d BUsha to repeal 
Fai^s adamamhm Laws, yea even vrtien 
Himsdf ky pris'ner under Death's cold seal : 
For m his Grave. Mortality's own Den, 
Ufits Pffprniatian he manag^t 
And by his rotten Bones awak'd the Dead. 

2L 

Yet an these Womdtrs bat Prelndiums shewed. 
And glimmering Dawns of that all-dasling Z^, 
Which was to crown Tiwt^s happy Plenitude, 
And MiracUs ripe age on Earth display : 
For then the Word it self came down, and broke 
F^om human necks the cruder Egypt s yoke. 

3X 

Docomm*s Law requir'd this Time should be 
Time's Excellence : Those forgeries by which 
The height of all Poetick Industry 
Coined the G(>iUte 4^, and made it rich 
With fande's gaUantiy, could never rise 
To match this wwre than Golden Age's price. 



^3. 
PJfyiax naoMd this bright Truth to shew 
To his faidearM Charge, with whom (for she 
Had now awoke) in his swift Coach he flew 
High through the yidding douds, and instantly 
Reach'd Palestine's design^ Zenith, iiriiere 
He cmb'd his Steeds* and fiz'd th' obedient Air. 

24. 
Psyche admir'd to see the Chariot stand 
Firm on so thin a floor : But then, said He. 
This Region lies not only in the hand 
Of Satan's Power ; No, our Authority 
Is clearer fiir, though that Usmrper here 
The name of Sovereign presumes to wear. 

Alas, time was (as he remembers well) 
When tumbled headlong from our highest Home. 
He oould not stop himself, but hdpless fdl 
Through all this Air to his infernal Doom. 
Indeed he often crawleth back this way. 
Yet 'tis but like a Thief, to steal his prey. 



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26. 
But from tbifl lofty Prospect Thou shalt see 
The Stages where thy Lord his Wondtn did ; 
Not aU : their nnmber is too vast to be 
Ib one Day's little vohune iiilly read : 
And yet as many as shall amply prove 
That an his business in this World was Love. 

Thai Tkact is GaiiUt, yon little Town 
The place where first his Migki abroach he set, 
Where he was pleas'd a Marriagt Ptast to crown 
Both with his presence, and approve of it : 
He, though a Virgin* s Sam, was careftil to 
Assert himsdf not to be Wedlock's foe. 

28. 

No ; he at first hhnsdf oontrivM it, 

A strong and delicately-sacred Tie, 

By which indissohibly he might knit 

TWo Bosoms in one Love's Conspfaiacy. 

W§dhek *s that reverend Knot, by which alone 
Two are no kmger Two, bat BM art Omt, 



A 



29. 



A Knot thy Lard delights to imitate, 
Thongh in a purer and more mystick way ; 
Concentring with his Spimsi so sweetly, that 
He blends his Heart with hers, till amorous they 
Cleave in such unity, as makes the Crwatmn 
Strangely partaker of its MaJur's Natttn, 

30. 
A Knot which only hard and troublous proves 
When knit unequally, and to atchieve 
Unworthy ends ; when free and genuine Loves, 
(Whose skill is here the best) may not have leave 
To manage their own trade ; when Lmst doth wear 
Afftciiam*t bee, and Passion domineer. 

31. 

A Knot to which, until the Protoplast 

A pris'ner was, not all the Joys which grew 

In blessed Paradise could dress a Feast 

Of satisfaction for his Soul: his true 
And proper Edtn was his precious Wi/t, 
In whom alone he liv'd his dearer Life. 

A Knot of sOk, yet stronger far than that 
Whidi rais'd the fame of Gardins so high ; 
A Knot which to no weapon yields, but what 
The Worlds tnu Canqneror weflds ; a Knot which by 
His unoontrouUM Sithe alone is cut 
Whom Fate to mow down all the Earth hath set. 

33- 
A Knot which cementeth Aflection close 
Between the Branches and the Root, and binds 



46 



Up Families in peace ; which hanging loose 
By donbtful Lints, as oft as waspish Minds 

By Discontent's proud itch were spurrM on. 

Would split, and into mischiefs shivers run. 

34. 
A Knot which Satan gall'd so deep, that be 
Bewitch'd grave Plato* s high-esteemdd Pen 
To preach the Doctrine of Community, 
As fiir more proper for the Weal of Men. 

Bat failing in the moderate Pagan* s Plot. 

A de^Mrate Christian* s likelier tongue he got. 

35. 

His AnHachtan Monster ventur'd to 

Spit poison on this wholsom Mystery, 

Avouching Nwptial Union to flow 

From JaiTing Hell's invention : Hell, said He, 
Was that bhu:k Shop where BeUehib's ovm hands 
Ffast foig'd and fashion'd Matrimonial Bands, 

36. 

Unhappy Satnminns, how hast thou 
Proved thy self an urcheon of Damnation I 
What gainst thou else by fetching from below 
Thy Beings Root, which was of Heaven's Plantation ? 
O most adulterous Soul, whose rank ofience 
Deflowers the Beds of all the World at once ! 

37. 

But now, kind JESUS, sitting at the Feast, 

And addmg living Cheer to that dead Meat. 

(For on his Face the Eyes of every Guest, 

As on the richer Dainties all were set,) 
A fit occasion him beseech'd to joyn 
To that dry Banquet of his Fact some Wine. 

38. 
The Whie was out : when lo the Virgin Motktr 
In courteous pity of the Bridegroom* s want 
(Which she more studious was than he to smother) 
Strait to her Son, the fount of all things, went. 
And in a blush more lovely than the Bride 
Could shew her Groom, the bus'ness signify'd. 

39- 
Bat then her San, (tiecause not hers alone, 
But also Htaven*s, and purposing to show 
A token of that high Extraction,) 
Waving the precious Name of Mother now. 
Reply'd, Woman, let the Purveyor see 
To that defect, wAo/ij'/ 49 ATtfpr Tkeef 

40. 
But maiking then how Her abashed Eye 
Begg'd pardon for her hasty Intimation, 
He molUiy'd his seeming sharp Reply, 
By adding this serene Interpretation : 

Tis not thy Charity that I repress. 

But its unseasonable forwardness. 

2 A 



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41. 
The Bus'ness noble is ; for Heav'n and I, 
Before thy thoughts it enter'd, plotted it : 
But yet thou needst not lend us wings to (lie. 
Who haste enough can make when haste is fit. 

The wheds of Tiwu though speedily they run. 

MiM€ komr as yet they have not rc^l6d on. 



Know, Psycke, that Nis kcmr is Afere/s Cue ; 

And at Extremity s last gasping Call, 

She loves her seasonable Power to shew. 

The want of Wine was yet not known to all 
The company, whose Souls it did ooncem 
By that, thy Lor^s wise Potency to learn. 

43. 
But when that want was grown notorious, He 
With ready Goodness issued his Command, 
That six capacious Water-pots should be 
Flll'd with their own accustom'd Liquor, and 
Drawn for the Guests : when lo, at every spout 
The Miracle into the Bowl gush'd out 



He who dull Water uught, by thrilling through 
The conduit of the Vine and of the Grape, 
To turn to brisk and Joyful Wine ; did now 
Teach it as much by running through the Tap. 
The cool and \1xgin Nymph drawn from the Pot, 
All over blushM, and grew sparkling hot 

45. 

The Master of the Feast amasM at 

Her looks and spirit, wonder'd whence she came. 

Never had his judicious Palate yet 

Discover'd sucba pnrely-sprightfiil Dame. 
Not knowing she was made to grace the Feast 
By Him who nothing gives but what is BuL 

46. 

And sure I am that in thy pious Ear 

The bare narration relisheth so well, 

That with thy thirsty Soul thou drink'st thy share, 

And tast's the sweetness of this MiraeU, 

But for these Pots, that thou but tum'st thy Eye. 

An Oetan of Wonders thou mayst spy. 

47. 
Lo, yonder flows the Sea of Galilee, 
Upon whose sandy shore, which He had set 
To cuib and discipline its waves, as He 
Vouchsaf *d to walk, his Eyes an object met 
Which mov'd his unrequested Piety 
To wooe the Pis/Ur^s to a nobler Sea. 

48. 

Peter and Andrew in that tiresom Main 
Catching their Living with their Fish he spy'd : 



In whom he read the tedious state of vain 
And mudling Mom, who in the briney Tide 

Of this unstable World, his days doth Waste. 

And with his Net, Himself into It cast 

49. 

So certainly Umctrtainfy upon 

Life's tubrick stage, has leam'd to domineer ; 

Proud Change in such confounding sport doth run 

Here sometimes flowing, sometimes ebUog there ; 
That solid Earth, no less than fluid Sea 
Seems at nnsetlrd Lsuuss beck to be. 

50- 

This made Him call aloud, Come, follow me. 

And I will you embarck upon the shore. 

Yet in a safer, profitabler Sea 

Than you have ever fishdd in before. 
Let those mstte Things alone, and I will teach 
You speaking Pishis readily to catch. 

5L 

The duals of Men which in this Age*s stream. 
Busily scud, as thick and fost shall flow. 
Not to those frail and feeble Nets, but them 
Which Heav'n's Almigty hand shall weave for you ; 

Immortal Nets, which know not how to break ; 

Neu which the universal World shall take. 



Soocn, soom that ciasy Hulk of yours ; for I 
Am oome to rig a Royal Ship, in iHuch 
You round this mighty Gk>be, being steerM by 
My watchiiil Providence, shall safely reach. 
When Heav'n fears being shipwrack'd, then shall this 
Stout Barh, whkh nothiog but Heasfn*s Kingdom \s. 

53. 
Hast thou not heard how Syrens" Airs have blown 
Fond Fishers from their Boats into the Sea ; 
In whose sharp billows they their Captives drown, 
Drowm6d before in their soft Harmony ? 

Well then might this strong Charme those Men invite 

Into the Ocean of safe Delight 

54. 
Onoe more their Nets they cast, but Cast <mwf / 
Meekly ambitious to be Fishes now. 
And render up themselves his joyful prey, 
Who thus his Net of Love about him threw. 
Never adventure had they made like this, 
Where being caught themselves they catcfa'd their 
Bliss. 

55. 

They catch'd their Bliss ; and though their Anchors held 

Their Vessel fisst, yet could it not detain 

Its ravish'd Owners, who made haste to yieki 

To this new Trade of more assured gain. 
But, Psyche, yonder Place will tell thee how 
Wonders by Land as well 's by Sea did flow. 



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56. 
For there was leii 'd a fidrer harder Prise, 
And aeiiM finom ExaeHon*s sturdy throne ; 
Where Uvi sate, Lord of a strange Bxcise, 
The heavy mark of Rome's Dominion : 

A Knight was he, for none bat such were held 

Fitting that L^ai Cruelty to weild. 

$7. 
That idndlycalUd by thy lovdy Lord, 
Fishers were well content their Baric to leave, 
Less ground to sober wonder doth aflford ; 
Their cold and wet and dirty Trade might drive 
Them to an easy Faitk, their old Degree 
Of Life, by any new advanc'd would be. 

s«. 

A Faiik, whidb in the drqis of Tiwu, so fiur 
Abus'd would be, that bold Meckanicks, who 
In poor and painful toil ingag^d were. 
When SUiih and Pride make them too worthy to 
Buckle to woric, their tools away will throw, 
And by this CaUt insph^d Mem-fisktrs grow. 

59- 

Bat what, what Charms can Goldm Chains outvy, 

And break those strong and precious Links which now 

Held Letn in such dear Captivity. 

That ev'n his Soul close prisoner was : or how 
Can this Poor Master such a Man persuade 
To leave Great Cesar » and his thriving Trade. 

60. 

A stubborn Mountain may more easily be 
Convinced to resign his native place, 
And heave his mouldering bulk into the Sea : 
The Son may sooner from his princely fince 
Be won to tear his golden Tire, and damp 
With Midnight nasty foot his higimoon Lamp. 

6l 
Yet, passfaig by the Qfice, He no more 
Artillery, but this only WordUx fly, 
Cmm, FolUno me: which forthwith overbore. 
In spigfat of all rehictant Policy, 

The startled Seat, the Profit, and the Mam, 

And tnm'd into a Saini the Pmbiican, 

62. 

He spins oat no prudential stay to clear 

His bosy Book, to set his Reck'ninga right, 

And all his panels up to sum : for here 

His dearest TotaimSkfiA in his sight ; 
And no Aeeonmi he makes but only this. 
That now from Money he remoVd to Bliss, 

63. 

The Worid's opinion he revolvM not. 
Nor how Tiberius this Affiont might take ; 



He weighed not what would be lost, or what 
Would not be gain'd ; he begs no time to seek 

His Friend's advice bow he his fame might keep, 

Nor lingereth to look before be leap. 

64. 
As from its clogging horrible Abyss, 
The World at JBSlTs Call its head did rear ; 
So from the blacker deeper mass of his 
ConfusM Mammon Levi mounteth here. 
And bravely y&i/0«u Him without delay 
Who was hfanself his Leader and hU Way, 

65. 

For Love like Lightning from thy Spouse* s Eyes, 

Shooting its active sweetness through his Heart, 

Into its own obedient Sacrifice, 

Whate'r it met did mstantly convert. 
So sublimate and so refining was 
That Fire, that all the Goldix tum'd to Dross. 

66. 

Doubts, Fears, and Cetres, and secular Relations 
It quite burnt up ; and in his flaming Breast. 
Left nothing but the noble EixuUaUons 
Of valiant Zeal, which, should its course be crost, 
Though with the cumbrous bulk of Earth and Sea, 
Would rend its way through all, and Victor be. 

67. 

Love, Psyche, Tjove is that most Potent Thing, 

To which all ot&er Strength its head submits. 

Hence 'tis, that though the Universes King 

Omnipotence's gioticm Title hts, 
Yet in this sweeter J^ame of Higher Might 
(For God is Love) he takes his prime delight. 

68. 
Thy Lord his Ordinary Chaplains thus 
CaU'd out ; and Twelve their Mystick number was : 
For with this Zodiach He contriv'd to dress 
His Grace's Orb through which He meant to pass ; 
That in as many Signs Himself might run 
About his Workl as do's the other Sun, 

■ 69. 

In which selected T^lve there wanted not 

A peevish scorpion too, which daily bit 

The Hand that him had foster'd ; and his hot 

Invidious venom at his Patron spit ; 
Proving at length in matchless height of Evil 
Against Incarnate God, Incarnate Devil. 

70. 
Yet such was JESU's most untirM Love, 
That still he persever'd all stones to roll, 
Which might that one in Judas* Bosom move. 
And mollify his most obdurate Soul. 
For Heav'n forbid that Pity's Lord should Cashion 
A way to plunge him dcepqr in Danuation. 



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71. 

O no I may thow blRck Mouths for erer be 

Dunm'd up with sOenoe, and with shame, which dare 

Father the foulest deepest Tyranny 

On Lav€*sgnai God; and needs wiU make it dear 
From bis own Wcrd: thus rendrinf Him at once 
Both Cnuii/s and ContradUtion's Frinte. 

72. 

A Prince whose mocking Law foibids, what jet 

Is hu etemaUy-resolTM Vm ; 

Who wooes and tantalises Souls to get 

Up into Heay'n, yet desthies them to Hell ; 
Who calls them forth whom he keeps kxdcM in \ 
Who damns the Sinner, yet ordains the Sin. 

73. 
Right Bgypfs God, the barisarous CroeodiU, 
Whose weeping Eye the prefoce drops to that 
Destruction, which his own devouring will 
Determin'd has. But. Psyche, never let 
That thought thy bosom taint. That Heav'n contrives 
Those Crimes and PunishmenU, for which it grieves. 

74. 
When goodly Vints shall Thomi vUe Mothers be ; 
And glorious Titan Father of dull Night; 
When ugly Inh's obscure Nativity 
Is lineally descended from the white 

Womb of Sarmatian Snow ; then ; nay not then. 

May God the Parent be of bastard Sin. 

75. 

But all the rest were fiuthful Souls, who stood 

True to their Masters Cause, and Joy'd to write 

lu confirmation in their dearest Blood, 

As Ne had done in his : the sharpest fight 
They counted sweetest ; glorying that they 
His Death might t>y their own in part repay. 



The first of these was Zehedeisjlrst Son, 
To whom proud Herod's Sword the way cut ope, 
And gave him leave that noble Race to run. 
Which leadeth straight to Heav'n's illustrious top. 
How little dream'd the Tyrant that be did 
Put on his Crown when off he took his Head I 

77- 
The next was Philip, who with zealous heat 
Flew to the North, and hunted out the Ice 
From those dull Hearts which ne'r with Heav'n did beat. 
But in congeaidd stupid Ignorance Ireexe : 
For bis large scene was nidest Scythia, where 
Dtctmber takes his walk through all the year. 

78. 
When He that Winter all on Fire had set 
With Christian Jtames : his Fervor brake into 



A Clime which warmer Tempers promis'd, but 
At his Life's price be found them cokkr grow : 

He found that more than Siythia's baibaioas Ice 

Bound up the Htut oiifiera^oUs. 

79. 
yove^s Name had left no room for JESUS there 
And when he teUs the People, of the Shanus, 
The Nails, the Cross, his ^.^nf for them did bear. 
He his own Torment's list afbrehaad names : 
Enough of JESUS now, said they, for we 
Will quickly make as good a GM of thee. 

8a 

Then piefdng, first with cruel Taunu his Ear. 

And next with Nails his sacred Hands and Feet. 

With acclamations up his Ones they rear ; 

Where befa« placed as their fury's Butt, 
Of flintt (less flinty than themselves) upon him 
Pouriog a tempest, into Heav'n they stone him. 

81. 

Thomas, whose Doubts had fiz'd his Faith so fast. 

That neither Life nor Death iu root could shake ; 

With JESUS hi his Mouth through Parthia past 

And charm'd what Pome could never pliant make. 
Then having also rous'd the ^thieps. He 
Resolv'd to reach the Worid's eztivmity. 

82. 
He sadly markM how the greedy West 
Into the Bast was drawn by thfast of Gold. 
Which had the Sun's and Nature's courses crost, 
And faito Indus* Mouth the Ocean roU'd : 
And will none venture, there said He, to win 
A fidrcr prise than that, the Souls of Men t 

83. 
Sure Indian Souls of piurer metal are. 
Than that which Avarice so hr adores. 
Thomas will thither trade, though India were 
Distant more worlds than one from Jordan's shores. 
For m his sealous sails God's Spirit blows. 
And not Xo/ttch but carry Gold he goes. 



If Gold be not too poor a Name to print 
Upon such royal Wares as Glory, Bliss, 
Love, Patience, Purity, divine Content, 
And every Sweet of sweetest Paradise : 
For these, and more than these, Inshrin^d lie 
In JESU's Name, Heav'n's best ^tomy. 

85. 
With this he traded to make India rich. 
And not himself, who now could not be poor. 
As having more than All, though not so much 
As any thing lay'd up in prudent store : 
He knew his Lord was Plenty's King, and He 
Counts as his own his Master's Treasury. 



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86. 
Ooae to this noble Work the Heroe fell, 
And having fairly op'd his Merchandize, 
C6ine buy, saith he ; for though these Wares excel 
Your glittering Ore's too much adorM price, 
Tet you am Trust may go for all this Bliss, 
Give but your Paitht and yours the Treasure is. 

87. 
A TVeasore so inestimably pure 
As neitber moth can iret, nor rust devour : 
A Treasure most invincibly secure 
Ftom pilferers' sly and robbers' open power. 
Yet though so precious ; 'tis not I, but He 
Deserves your thanks, who sends it you by me. 

88. 

The Braekmans wonder'd at the Gimemu Man ; 

So did the Sage Gymmoupkists : until 

BUndness with spight combined, hurried on 

A baibarous Factkm, to seise and kill 
The wondr o u s Merdumt; who as ready stood 
To poor it forth, as they to suck his Blood. 

89. 
Aim'd with their King's consent, and with their Spears, 
Into his Heart they ope their murderous way : 
Which wounds he with contented patience bears. 
And for his dombHng Hand returns this pay ; 
Remembring well how deep, till thus he dy'd, 
It stood in debt to his Dear Master's Side. 

90- 
The younger Jamts^ whose noble Pedigree 
Advanc'd him to be Brother to kis Lord, 
Much nearer grew of Idn by Piety : 
No Saint with stouter fervor Him ador'd. 

Nor with more resohite constancy than he ; 

\^tness his reverend Forthead and his Knee, 

91. 

His Knee: thick plated with Austerity. 

Which day and nifl^t all naked dwelt upon 

The Temple's floor, till it aniv'd to vie 

In hardness with itt cushkm of stone. 
There never grew 00 painlul Camel's Knees 
A stiifer Pro^ofPatienee, than on His. 

92. 
His Parekead: deeply seaM with the same 
Stamp of severest ae^ whilst prostnue He 
Aocustom'd to his Soul's his Body's frame; 
O sacred Impudence of Humility 1 
As wicked Foreheads arm themseWes in Brass, 
His pious Front in Brawn unmurdd was. 

93. 
(A BrawUt which shall hereafter check their Pride 
And sen^flfss Superstition, who in New 



Devotion pertly will the Old deride, 
And hold no Worship from the Body due ; 
But, in pretence their Conscience tender is. 
Maintain their dainty Flesh's Tenderness, 

Who on the Spirit boldly score up aU 
Rdigkm's work ; and whilst they sit at ease, 
Wooki have the World believe they humbly &11 
On their adoring Soul's devouter knees : 
Forgetting that the Tree must needs be dead. 
Whose sap into no open fruit will spread.) 

95. 
His dearest meat and drink was to obey 
His Master's pleasure : Ne'r did Blood of Grape 
Stain his abstemious Cup, and slily lay 
An ambush for his Reason : mean and cheap 

His liquor was. for Virgin Fountains were 

His only Cellars, and his only Beer. 

96. 

Ne'r could the rampant Flesh, of Birds, or Beasts 
Qet leave to reak upon his temperate Board : 
Chaste Moderation cooked all his Feasts, 
And well she knew how to content her Lord ; 

His highest frure were sober modest Fishes ; 

Where Water serv'd for Beer, the aptest Dishes. 

97. 
His Skin periumdd Unguents ne'r bedew'd 
With supple Flattery of delicious sweat : 
Umnanly Baths his Body never stew'd. 
Cheating his Vigor with effeminate heat : 
His Limbs in active linen lov'd to dwell. 
And ne'r were muffled up, and tost in Wool 

98. 

Nor was that Linen Robe, though coarse and plain. 

Contemned in the People's Eyes, for they 

On bended knees were suters to obtain 

His Grace, their offrings on its Hem to lay. 
That on that Altar of Humility, 
Their Lips and Kisses they might sanctify. 

99- 
O how imperious is Meek Piety, 
Whether it will or no. oommanding all 
Spectators into Love and Reverence 1 He 
Who at true Honor reacheth. must let frdl 

His other Plumes, and wisdy learn to dress 

Body and Soul in humble Holiness. 

loa 
For when did Pride and fond Afnbitiom scape 
The vengeance both of Hatred and Disdain 
And when did Glory fidl her self to heap 
Upon his Head, who meekly could refrain 
From climbing Honor's ladder, and his own 
Desert by rigid Wisdom pressM down ? 



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CANTO X. 



lOI. 
Nay, surly He who on the Priesthoods crest 
Sits perch'd. of Jawus his Worth oonTincM is ; 
And anding Him the higher holUr Priist, 
Makes free the OracU to his access. 

Thus Heav'n's abstrusest Cabinet, the Glory 

Of all the Earth, became his Oratory. 

I02. 
Jawiis was the truer Priat indeed : for now 
The ancient Priesthood with the Vail was torn ; 
The Diadem too was fall'n from Judak's brow. 
And SaUm's royal Splendor lay forlorn : 

This made him there erect the sacred throne 

Of his Episcopal Dominion. 

103. 
Yet are the Northern Winds, and Irish Seas 
More trusty things than Jems: the Jews to day 
Can heap their kisses and their courtesies 
On him whom they to morrow will betray : 
Jem* mouths this hour upon thy Praises' text 
Can fairly preach, and suck thy blood the next. 

104. 
With acclamations they this Saint had set 
In state upon their Temple's battlement ; 
And there no sooner he asserts his great 
Ascended Lord^ but in one mad consent 

Of rage they throw him down, and from his veins ; 

His heart, his head, dash blood, and life, and brains. 

105. 

ZeMes, and Thaddaus, that brave Pair. 

When He in Egypt preach^ had. and He 

From Tigris to Euphrates, joined were 

To reap in Persia their felicity : 
This was the Crown of Martyrdom, which in 
The Quarrel of Heaven's King they nobley woo. 

106. 
Peter, the Leader of that g^ous Troop, 
When he had fiz'd the Antioeheam Seat, 
His more renown^ Throne set stoutly up 
In Cesar's conquering City ; where the great 

Irradiations of his fame did call 

Rome's brightest Strength to try with him a fall : 

107. 

That Strength was Simon, whose Apostasy 

From Truth in Magick's Deeps had plung'd him down ; 

But more in desperate Lies and Blasphemy. 

Whilst all that 's God's he claimed as his own, 
And left no Trinity in Heav'n. but by 
Strange impudence usurp'd that Mystery. 

108. 

The Father in Samaria, the Son 

In Jewry, and in aU the World beside 



He vmidi'd himself the 5/sri/ .• yet alone 

Pretended not ability to guide 
His own creating Hand, but when he made 
His AngeU, granted he had Helen's aid. 

109. 

He knew the surest way he had to gain 

His Whore, was to exalt her to his throne. 

And in his Qodship let her Partner reign. 

Besides, to help on his ProductioQ 
Of bla^hemous heretick Portents. Hell 
Thought Pewtales useful then ; and always wilL 

IIO. 
And so the World win say, when once 't has known 
Priscilla, Maximilla, and the Pair 
Of Phiimmens, with Elxafs double Spawn 
Marthtis and hiarihan. For her wretched share 

In such Deceits some Eve will still come in. 

As Heien here did into Simon's Sin. 

III. 

He WDo'd his Scholars in Himse// and Her 

To treasure up the hopes of their Salvation ; 

And heedless Souls the surer to insnare. 

He freely loos'd the reins to every Passion ; 
No matter how you live or die. said He, 
If once your Faith buikis on my Grace and Me. 

112. 

For what. alas, are all the fairest-foced 
And goodlyest-featur'd IVoris which men atchieve. 
But hidious Sins, unrighteously graced 
With Righteousnesse's Name? But they who leave 
Those putrid Props, and trust in Me alone, 
Ingage my P6wer to become their own. 

"3. 

This was that Champion, by vrhose magick skill 

Him God indeed, befooled J^ero thought. 

And pray'd him by some signal Mirsde 

To dash those daring Wonders Peter wrought. 
To which request his Credit bid him yield. 
And set the Day when he would fight the fidd. 

114. 
The Day is oome ; and Simon boldly makes 
The Challenge, whidi was, l/p to hemfn iojfy. 
>^th that, his Arms he weighs, and spreads, and takes 
His unwing'd flight : but throws his scornful eye 
Down upon Peier, whom into the hands 
Of Nero's Justice proudly he commends. 

115. 

The Ckmds had gather'd thtek about the sky 

To guard fail Heav'n agalntt his foul Intmskm ; 

Yet their battalia he broke, and by 

His working arms unto his h^h Delusion 
Forc'd ope the way. The People, as he went, 
Their wonder after him, and worship sent. 



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191 



116. 
But as the never-beaten fencer lets 
His Ixdd capridous Combatant grow high, 
Before be wiU hi earnest strike, and gets 
A later but a nobler Victory : 
So Ptitr sailers him to sore, till he 
Might high enough for's fatal Downfal be. 

117. 
Then posting alter him with mighty Prayers, 
His Coach of nnseen Devils from him he tore : 
Forthwith down headlong his aerial stayers 
The Omptrtr fell, and spraulM on the floor ; 
Where battered, hms'd, and in himself imbrewed. 
His Uack blood and his bladcer soul he spewed. 

118. 
So when heaVn-daring Lucifer himself 
Ttfd in the flaming foot of God to fly, 
His singM wings betray'd the venturous Elf, 
And down he pfamg'd into the Misery 

Of endless Death, And may his followers all 

For ever towre up to no other foil. 

119. 
Strait in the People's Mouths the Devib cry, 
Ptter our God kaih by tnchantmetits sUUm : 
And by this loud unreaso n able Ly€» 
For Him who eam'd a Oown, a Cross obtain. 
Unhappy Rom*, who hast converted thus 
Thy highest Gain into thy deepest Loss. 

12a 
For thou no sooner gainst thy Freedom from 
That WtMsar^s cheats, but thou betra/st thine ow 
DeUvtrer : if wretched Siwton^ whom 
Thou seest by Pttif's mighty Pmyers thrown 

Beneath a Man, were yet a God: O why 

Is PeUr not the greater Deity? 

121. 
Yet He cries oat. This Ahar is too rich 
For Me, so poor and vile a Sacrifice : 
Was't not the Cross, the glorious Cross, on which 
My Master pay'd the Worid's renown^ Price ! 
Sure weresome gallant Seraph here to die, 
This Eagme would his Passion dignify. 

122. 

Yet if I must thus high aspire ; may ray 
Unworthiness at least have leave to show 
That I desir'd not in this pomp to die : 
So hang me that my reverend Head below 
May pay its final kisses on the Feet 
Of my most Royal Savior's dying Seat. 

123. 
Nero to such Requests as these was free. 
And glad besides that he had leam'd a way 



To cross and double CmciJUeion : He 
Commands his Sergeants not to disobey 

The Wretch's wild desire, but, so he dy'd, 

To let him any way be crudfy'd. 

124. 
Thus nail'd on his reverse Tree, with Eyes 
Quite tum'd (as was his Heart) frxun things below 
The Saimt looks down to Heav'n, and smiling dies ; 
Bfalgre his Nails' resistance. aUe now 

That Place, at which his Feet were aim'd, to gain ; 

A Footstool Simon's ventur'd at in vain. 

125. 

Andrew, his Brother both in Nature's and 

In Zeal's and Piety's (much straiter) knot, 

Display'd through Tkrace to Scytkia's furthest Strand 

The beams of Grace's Day, so frurly that 
It startled, and surpris'd with holy fright 
The dark Barbarians in their northern Night. 

126. 
Thence into Greece the restless Preacher came. 
Arrogant Greece, who though she ranks her own 
Quite counter to the scom'd Barbarian Name, 
Yet now more cruel was and salvage grown 
Than Thrace or Scythia : O that fomous ArU 
Should raise Men's Wits, and yet debase their Hearts. 

127. 
Aehaia smil'd, and with disdainful mirth 
Pairm confuted all that Andrew said ; 
His Beggar-god^ s, poor miserable Birth 
And viler Death, they sooffingly upbraid. 

Nor blush'd ^Cgeus, though Proconsul, he 

Forward to spur the People's villainy. 

128. 
A Cross they make him of a new-found frame. 
His meek Ambition, or their wanton Spight 
Projecting it, which thenceforth bare his Name, 
As Him it did that day : a Cross not right 

Erected and transverse, but slopingly 

Thwarted into the figure of a X. 

129. 
A X, the blessM Letter, which began 
His Master's Title, and his own : his Cross 
It self proclaims he dies a Christian : 
And though the holy Omen to his gross 

Yet learned Foes were unperoeived, He 

Rejoyc^d in his Cross's Mystery. 

130- 

A Cross, which shall inherit such Renown. 

Wearing bis Name, upon it crudfy'd, 

That it the Scotish Heraldry shall crown. 

And on the top of all its Banners ride. 
What Glories then shall Saints themselves obtain, 
If in such state their Suffrin^s Badges rdgn 1 



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CANTO X. 



131- 

Nail'd fast to this ttnuife Honor wm the Saint, 
Amy'd in Scarlet from his own rich Veins : 
Fond Grtcia took it for a tortming Faint, 
And thought his Crws a fertile Tree of pains ; 
But to a Pulpit He converu that Tree, 
A Pulpit which did preach as well as He. 

132. 
That preach'd his patient Magnanimity, 
His meek Obedience, and his brave Content : 
But more illustrious was the Homily, 
Which flow'd from his ovm Lips ; so eloquent 

And so divine, that Lifg it self upon 

His dying Tongue seem'd to have built her throne. 

'33- 

Long held this Sermon, for his last it was ; 

Two days it measor'd ; yet in truth was short : 

For what are two poor flitting days, alas. 

To that which doth Eternity import? 
He preach'd Eternity, to whose fair Ught 
He strove his blinded Torturers to invite. 

134. 
But then observing Death forbear to make 
His wonted haste, it forc'd him to complain : 
Not that his Pftins his Plstience had broke. 
But that his Heart now long'd its Homu to gain ; 

Counting himself, where^'r he was, abroad. 

Till lumpily arrived at his God. 

135- 
And am I nail'd in vain, dear Lord, said he. 
To this stout Pillar of renown^ Death ? 
Though not poor I. yet Thou deserv'st for me, 
That in this honor I may yield my Breath. 
These potent Words to Heav'n with Violence flew. 
Whence they of flashing Ught a Convoy drew. 

136. 

As in the bosom of his chariot's flames. 
Blest PlUbus sails through his Celestial road ; 
So in the arms of these officious Beams 
The Saint was carry'd to his high Abode : 
But yet with this most glorious difiierenoe, that 
Here Andrew riseth never more to set 

137. 

On seal's undaunted wings great Bartkormew 

To meet Day'sjtawu where first it kindled \m. 

To India's remotest regions flew ; 

And taught the East to bless their wakening eyes 
By worshiping a nobler Sun whose fiice 
Was both the Spring of Glory and of Grace, 

138- 

Then having left his goodly Picture there. 
By Matthew's Pen drawn ^ly in a Book : 



He posted back into Armemiat where 
The same iUustrknu Work in hand he took. 
But when of Peaces King he *gan to talk. 
The Prissa grew wroth and thus his Fury spake : 

139. 
Bold wretch, who pntestof the idle throne 
Of vainer Christ; 1 1 make thee know that I 
In my Armenia will have but one. 
And that's the Seat of my own Majesty. 

If Jesus be a God, he must be fiun 

To seek some Realm of Beggars where to reign. 

14a 

Twere spedal credit for Armenia's King 

To honor as a mighty Deity 

A stabie-hom and manger-cradeled Thing, 

Whose ignominious Death did justify 
The vileness of Birth, because a poor 
ResolvM doting wretch doth him adore. 

141. 
O no 1 the Gods by whose great blessing I 
Possess my Throne and Crown, are Gods enough : 
Fully enough I 'm sure for me : and why 
Should I go trouble heav'n with more ; or throw 
Away Devotion on this Jesus, who 
At best but for an useless God must go. 

142. 
He useless is ; and so I fear art Thou 
His correspondent Priest : and yet a way. 
Perhaps, my Officers may think on how 
To make of thy vile Nothing Something : say 
Seigeants, will not this Carrion serve tojfea t 
Though he be nat^ght, yet ^mi his shin may be. 

143- 
That only Word sufficient was to let 
The Tigres loose; who strait the SaisU undress 
Both of his doaths and shin which at the feet 
Of their remocsless Lord they throw ; for his 
Due right it was the Martyr's shin to keep 
In token that he slew the harmless sheep. 

144. 

But Net though flead. now fairer than before. 
As stars when strip'd from doods, with such eioess 
Of lustre sparkled in his glorious Gore 
As dasell'd by his sacred Nakedness 
Vez'd Satan's eyes, who wish'd,— to hide the 
Of his own shame, ^tbe skin were on again. 

145. 
In vain he wish'd ; for BarthoFnuw was now 
Fit for the Robes 0/ Immortality, 
Which Jesu's hand as ready was to throw 
On his deserving back ; and happy He 
Might well expect an easy entrance in 
At heav'n's strait gate who (atXput of his shin. 



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146. 

Bat AfaiiMiw into jBtkiopia nw, 
Ventring npoo a wonderous Enterprise, 
To piusie the swarthy Crow into a Swan, 
To candy IhJl. and Pitch to crystallise, 

Sables to make tralooed. Shadows lirigfat ; 

I mean, to wash tiU Pagan Ntgros white, 

147- 
Yet this by BafHsm's searching streams he did, 
Which drown'd their hearu in Life and Purity. 
Hence came the torrent of his Name to spread 
And in the chand of the Court grow higlL 
The Court soon catch'd the News, but little thought 
That m the News's net it self was caught. 

143. 

Caught was its dearest Gem, the virgin Heart 

Of Ipkigemia, daughter to the King : 

And now not all the flattering frowning art 

Of royal Hirtacus from her oould wring 
The least consent her mystick Spouse to leave, 
And unto him by nuptial cement cleave. 

U9- 

No : though the throne of her deceased Sire 
Was now become his own ; for noble She 
Would to no other Royalty aspire 
But what she found in Christian Piety; 

And in that holy Realm she reached high 

To gain Perfection's sublimity. 

150. 

My solemn Vow, cry'd she, is past, and I 

My body to my Maker must restore 

As I reoeiv'd it ; my Virginity 

Is now intirely His, and mine no more : 
And such a Queen why will thy Wishes seek. 
Who to thy bed through Perjury must break ? 

^ If Me you love, O then love what I am ; 
Love Love himself, or else you love not Me : 
Be truly Royal, love the Ckristian Name, 
And let my sacred Vow still s€icred be. 
For I may to no earthly Spouse be ty'd 
Who to an keav'nfy Bridegroom am afiy'd. 

152. 

With wrath and folly blind, the Tyrant saw 
Not how this Matck most matchless was, nor that 
She had already chose a King: and though 
Humanity and Courtship suffer'd not 
His Rage to tear the Princess, yet he swore 
Her Tutor's blood should pay his Scholar's score. 

153- 
His choisett thirstiest Bloodhounds he dispatdi'd 
With sutable Commission to the Saint; 

46 



Whom at the mystiek Takle having catch'd. 
The floor with kis and his Lord's Blood they paint : 
And at the Altar thus the Martyr dies. 
Both holy Priest and willing Sacrijtce. 

154. 

Matthias, whom heav'n-witness'd Faith commended 

To tiaytor Judas his escheated Place ; 

Persuing Matthew's great Design, contended 

To jEtkiopia : but his flnal Race 
In Jewry was, where not with sweat, but Blood 
Besmear'd, his Master's steps to heav'n he trod. 

155- 

Jokn was the last ; but first and highest in 
His dear esteem who is himself Most kigk : 
O blessed Soul, in whose deUdous shrine 
Divinity so much rejoyc'd to lie I 
JESVS indeed lov'd aU the rest; but He 
Not only lov'd, but teas in love witk Tkee. 

156. 

He was in love with thy Viiginity 
With blooming Graces youthfully bedeckt : 
Of all his Twelve indeared Consorts, He 
Did for his amorous favours Thee select : 
His softest nearest Spouse wert Thou, in whose 
Ingenuous eyes he lov'd his own to loose. 

157- 

He was in love with that reflection 

Of his own Sweetness shining in thy face ; 

With sympathetick joy he dwelt upon 

His iterated self in that pure Glass, 
Resolv'd on it an Lovers Arts to prove : 
Most happy Saint with whom Love fell in love f 

158. 

FVom off the troubled main He lured Thee 

Into the cahnest Sea of living Pleasures ; 

The bosom of supream Serenity 

To which the Ocean is but poor in treasures : 
His own alpredous Breast He open'd wide 
And welcom'd Thee to Joy's ne'r-ebbing tide. 

There did'st thou lie and learn thy Soul to glow 
By that dear copy of thy Pillow's heat ; 
A Pillow in whose soft protection Thou 
Laidst all thy Cares and fears asleep, and yet 
Sleep'dst not thy self ; for how oould any eye 
Indure to dose when Jesue was so nigh 1 

160. 

There didst thou lie all next the heart of Zmw, 

Heav'n bowing round to shdter thee from harm ; 

Heav'n, not so sweetly now display'd above 

As folded up in His indrcling Arm : 
Which forc'd all wise Spectators to condude 
Thou wert aforekaud with Beatitude. 

2 B 



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CANTO X. 



i6i. 

Thote Stories where the Quire of 5tffw/Ai dwels 

Enlted in febdty's bright sphere, 

Thy dainty Habitation excels ; 

For at his footstool they lie prostrate there : 
Amidst the sweets of whose all-balmy breast 
Thine only Head injoys its glorious Nest. 

y 162. 

""^^ How vast an Anny of most strong Delight 
Beleaguered thy Soul on every side. 
Whilst thy inamor'd Spouse try'd all the might 
Of Heav'nly tenderness on his dear Bridt : 
What healing wounds gave his Affection's Dart, 
How many Uving Deaths, to thy soft heart I 

163. 

How deeply sealed He himself on Thee 
By those intire Expressions, which can by 
No heart be understood, but such as He 
Instructs in Love's profound Divinity. 
On his own bosom how did he repose. 
When his embraces there did Thee inclose 1 

164. 
How did He study to epitomize 
His IncamoHon's amorous Design, 
And sum the best of Mercy's Mysterys 
Up in thy single soul 1 in which divine 

Experiment, it was thine only grace 

To fill his universal CkurcMs place. 

165. 

Thus while He liv'd He sweetly liv'd hi Thee ; 

And to his Death, when be was nailed fast. 

He nobly scorned that Mortality 

Should seize upon his Love : for by his last 
And tenderest words, while He himself did die, 
To Thee He left Loves living Legacy. 

166. 
Into his dearest Mother's bosom He 
Commended Thee, and bid her own her Son : 
What Nature could not. Love contriv'd to be. 
And Mary must be Mother unto John : 
Love had so closely John and Jesus ty'd, 
That in their Mother they must not divide. 

167. 
Mary no other Glass could find, where she 
So fair an Image of her Son might read : 
Nor John so pure a Mirrour meet, where He 
Might on his Master's graceful picture feed 

His longing eyes : thus Love though dead and gone. 

Her Son to Mary leaves, his Spouu to John. 

168. 
No wonder, gentlest Saint, that on thy Tongue 
Love built his hive, and drop'd lus honey thence. 



Whilst thy soul-dianning words present so strong 

A relish of Heav'n's choisest Influence ; 
That Loue from his own wing lent thee the quill 
Which all thy Lines with Charity doth filL 

169. 
No wonder Thou brave Eagie soardst so high 
Making the Sun thy book, in which divine 
Volume thou read'st the Word's great Mystery, 
Which daseling other Eyes, refined thine. 
No wonder that thy GospeTs Cafculation 
Thou drew'st by none but Go^s own devation. 

17a 
No wonder, that Port Latin saw the OiU 
Scalding in vain : thou who didst live by fire 
Whilst amorous streams joy'd in thy breast to boil, 
Couldst fsel no other flames : O no I some higher 
Fervor of Love must melt thine own, and send 
It to the welknown bosom of ihj friend. 

171. 
The languishments of never-fiunt Desire 
Must crown thy life with correspondent Death : 
Though all the Rest through blood and wounds expire 
This dainty Martyrdom must end thy breath. 

So Heav'n has privileg'd thy Piety. 

That thou who liv'dst by love, of Love must die. 

172. 

Pisnlon me Psyche, that I have thine ear 

By this Apostrophe detained, since John 

Was by his virgin flaming worth so near 

Of kin to our Angelick THbe : and can 
We mention Him, and no salutes afford 
To one thus honored by Honor's Lord. 

173. 
And pardon me that I have dwelt so long 
On his Apostolich Consorts; the glory 
Of whose Death-scorning Valor do's no wrong. 
Nor interrupts their Master's royal Story : 
He. and his Heav'nly Might in them appear'd 
Who o'r the vanquish'd Elarth his Banner rear'd. 

174. 

Thus they who paint the praises of the Beams, 

Display the commendation of the Sun : 

When Eloquence's tributary streams 

After the Silver-thrilling Current run. 
Their Panegyrick homage they no less 
Unto the Mother-fountains wealth profess. 

175. 
Mark now that Mount, which lifts its lofty head 
Near to Bethsaida, taking thence a view 
Of all the Countries round about it spread ; 
Nor Zebulon nor Nephtali outflew 

lu prospect's jurisdiction, nor the most 

Removed skirts of Trachonitis' Coast 



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195 



176. 

Aoqaaintanoe also it sabUmely took 

Of other Mountains ; unto Htrmon^ Seir, 

And stately U^nus it reach'd a look : 

This was that noble Oratory, where 
Thy Lord so oft retired, that the Place 
Thenceforth the Mouni of Christ sumamed wa& 

177. 
A Motmt where Uberal Naiun did her best : 
Witness the flowiy Beauties smiling there ; 
Bat Grac9 fax more magnificence exprest 
Than all that awful Pomp, which dressed for 
The great Lawrgiver's feet the flaming head 
Of Sinai, mix'd with thunder, smoak, and dread. 

178. 

For here no Trampet spake the frightful Mind 
Of stem Imperiousntss ; no rigid Lam 
Back'd with an everlasting Curse, enjoyn'd 
All shoulders in its galling yoke to draw : 

But Latf€ himself upon his gentle throne 

Gave his soft Laws 0/ BenedicHon, 

179. 
Eight Springs of BUsstdntss abroach he set. 
And woo'd the weary World to bathe in them. 
Their fears he dieer'd, and taught them to transmit, 
And bnry all Solicitude in him : 

He pass'd his Word, Htav'n should their Purveyor be, 

Who served in the Wars of Piety. 

i8a 

His SvamgtlUal Oeecnomy 

He instituted here ; and so improv'd 

The highest pitch of Ltgal Samciity, 

That though incnmbring burdens he remov'd, 
Yet Bonds of more Perfection on he laid. 
And wondrous strici his Marty's Candor made. 

181. 
His Refais were silk, but yet he held them strait. 
And drove amain ; providing by that Art 
Of loving sharpness, that no charming Bait 
Might his Disciples lure, and tempt to start 

Ont of the JCing o/Ntav^n's High*way, but to 

His Kingdom safely and directly go. 

182. 

How sternly vain and foolishly severe 

Appears the solemn SioieVs Discipline, 

If duly weigh'd with this enacted here I 

Qrant that the Porch; the Sacred and Divine 
TemfU itself was this : That fram'd of none 
But rude, TJlif though of hard yet polish'd Stone. 

183. 
Ckrisfs Blessed Rules* and none but his, are they 
Which past the Purity of Gold refine 



Gross mortal Bosoms, sublimating Clay, 

Till with Angelick Claritude it shine : 
Whilst by his Spirit he scours off sinful Rust, 
And into Heav'n blows up the purged Dust, 

y' 184. 

Turn now, and view those desart Fields which lie 
Next neighbours to the Galilean Sea : 
Into the quiet of whose privacy 
Devotion had withdrawn thy Sfouse : but He 
Had given the People too much taste of his 
Sweetness, to think he long oould scape their press. 

185. 

For as the busy Bees who once have found 
A fragrant Garden, haimt it day by day. 
Hunting out every flower, and humming round 
About the tops of their delicious pcey : 
So to that Garden (such thy Lord had by 
His presence made the Desert) they did flie. 

186. 
JESUS who bow'd from Heav'n poor Man to meet. 
Could not refrain to entertain the Croud ; 
Whcnn with impartial respect to greet. 
As fully as their Tide, his court'sy flow'd : 

For he kind welcome dealt to great and small, 

Who came to be the Savior of AIL 



187. 

Then as the wise Physician's wholsome care 

Is first to make the Vitals sound within, 

Before he lends relief to any sore. 

Which craves his pity in the open skin : 
So did his prudent tenderness to those 
His numerous Pfttients his Receipts dispose. 

188. 
By long Distempers both their Brain and Heart 
Into Despair's dominion had been brought. 
Had they not met with his All-healing Art, 
From whose sweet Lips such Cordials broke out. 

Such Salves, such Balsams, that pure Health did seem 

Tum'd into Physick to recover them. 

189. 
Heav*n*s Kingdom was the Med'cine he ^pply'd ; 
A Med'cine which its Doctor vrell became : 
A Med'cine fit to humble down that Pride, 
Whose tumor made them sick : his Home fimn home 
To find his long lost Sheep, to Earth he brings 
And is resolv'd tdrheal them into Kings, 

19a 

Meoh Kings, that so at length they might be High ; 

For none but such his wondrous Kingdom fits : 

Since He, the Gm/ of aU Sublimity, 

To Lowliness* s bottom thus submits. 
His followers must learn by stooping down, 
To raise their Heads to their Supernal Ckown. 



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191. 
DoMi of Wisdom, Power, Life and bUn 
Into their ears he ponr'd : and in that stream 
So rardy He inAu'd all Paradise, 
That what did nothing but a Sermon seem. 
Was Uquid Heav'n : the Jewel thus, unseen 
Swam in the goblet of th* Egyptian Qmum, 

192. 
And thb admnc'd the wonder, that his tongue 
No help of learned Education had : 
The soundest Doctor's brains were not so strong 
But in his young and feeblest years He made 

Them to his more oraculous Problems yield 

The honor of sage Disputation's field. 

193. 
For never did the EMrakiU Ethan, never 
Did Himan, CJkaieo/, Darda, whose renown 
Exalted high above the World did hover, 
And plant upon their temples Wisdom's crown ; 
Never did Trisnugistms / never did 
The deepest reach of Zoroojtrt's head ; 

194. 

Never did Solowun, whose gallant wit 

As high 's the Heav'n, as deep as was the Sea, 

Unlock'd and ransack'd every cabinet 

Of darkest Naturt; dive so far as He, 
Or such ssntentioms Raritigs express 
As sparkled in this rich Discourse of His. 

195. 

Yea ev'n the Serpent, in whose wily head 
All cunning reigns, when he thy Grandame Eve 
With his profoundest and most studyed 
Inchantments try'd, of old, and did deceive, 
Less sweetly and less subtly preach' d, than now 
This Sermon from thy Spouse's lips did flow. 

196. 

The Serpenfs Preachment aimed Man to steal 
Into the snare of his own misery : 
Thy Spouu's end was only to reveal 
The passage to his own felicity : 

And Heav'n forbid, but Trutk as strong should be 

As undermining lies and flattery. 

197. 

It stronger was, by fuU authority 

Shewing its own authentick worth and might ; 

And not in doubting sneaking jealousy 

Desirous of, yet starting from the light 
The Chair which totters is the Scrip's, not His 
Which surer than the World's Heart fixed is. 

198. 
Aw^kion never by his charming Song 
So civilised salvage hearu as He 



Who by the sweets of his most potent Tongue 
Wild Wickedness tam'd into piety. 

The senseless Spheres a ravishing sound can make ; 

Much more His voice from whom their tune they take. 

199. 
This done ; thy tender Gpd his love expresses 
In outward Succours ; for with Ears the Deaf, 
With feet the Lame, with Eyes the Blind he blesses. 
And opes more choise of Sovereign Rdief 
Than they of wantt. O copious Savior, who 
At onoe oould heal both Soul and Body too. 

20a 

The Day grown inyw decrepit (for the Sun 
Bow'd to the West.) made his Disciples pray 
Their Lord to give the crowd dismission, 
That in the Desert's bordering Burroughs they 
Might get their suppers : No, said bounteous He, 
They are my friends, and they shall sup with me. 

201. 

Before these numerous Mouths what will you set ? 

Cry'd they, alas ! two hundred pence in bread 

Will not the sorry pittance of a bit 

To every one afford ; and furnished 
How shall this mighty Banquet be with dishes 
Since here 's but five poor Loaves and two small fishes ? 

202. 
As yet they knew not that their Lord was He 
Who able made the petty spring to feed 
And fill the Rivers' vast capacity : 
He who the single Taper Uught to breed 

That fertile flame which lights a thousand more 

Without diminishing its nadve store. 

203. 
He by whose power Biijah could command 
The final Handel of the wasted Meal 
To grow upon the pious Widdow's hand. 
From whom no scarceness could her bounty steal. 

And by a springing harvest more than turn 

The pined Barrel to a plenteous Bam : 

204. 

He, hi obedience to whose might (and though at 

Biisha's word) the Pot of Oil awaked 

Into %. fount, whose bubling ceased not 

Till want of Vessels its Abundance slaked ; 
But then grown wisely Thrifty, it represt 
Its liberal stream, that nothing might be lost 

205. 
He, whom the same Elisha did foreshew 
When he before an hundred Convives set 
That simple Dinner, which in spending grew, 
And being small at first, at last was great ; 
The Eater's teeth unlocking but the way 
Unto the Much whteh in that UttU lay. 



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»97 



306. 

But BOW they learn'd it : go, said He, and make 

My Guests by> fifty on a row sit down. 

Which done ; in his creating hands he took 

The fish and bread, and lifting to his own 

Fair heaVn his eyes, said grace : when lo, his sweet 
And mighty Blessings swelled in the meat. 

307. 
For as he brake the Bread, each fragment He 
Made greater than the whole ; no crmn did fiUl 
But rose faito a Loaf, as readily 
As when yon cat a Line, whose products all 

Are Limes as wet! as it, though you for ever 

The new emergent Particles dissever. 

308. 

By bis Division the fishes too 

Suddenly spawn*d a wondrous ftilgrown fry ; 

Though dead, yet at his touch they started so, 

That iw9 usurped MnUipUeity ; 
No longer Tuo, but now a skoal, which firom 
The Sea o/Lifvt out at his fingers swum. 

309. 

Then his Disciples* service he commands 

To be oflidous to this Growing Feast, 

And distribute into the People's hands 

The teeming Bread and Fish : strait every Guest 
FeQ to, admiring how that simple Meat 
Made them forget all Hony to be sweet. 

3ia 
Tlie Quails and Manna had been homely fare. 
Which Heav'n did in the other Desert shower 
When hungry Israel was a Pilgrim there. 
Had This been then serv'd up : The Winers brave power 

At Cana bom, ezoell'd the Grape's best blood ; 

So did this Feast to day all other Food. 

311. 
A Feast, which though with Pleasure's Complement 
The revish'd Convives Tongues it courted ; yet 
Unto the Pftlates of their Souls it sent 
More courteous Salutes ; whose Taste did fit 

Their inward Hunger so exactly, that 

More with their HearU than Mouths they feeding sate. 

313. 
Saiietjf at length, not nauseous. 
But soberly acoompUsh'd, put a dose 
To this strange Banquet : When thy generous 
Yet thrifty Ltrd, injqyns them not to lose 
His bountie's surplusage, nor scorn the Meat, 
Because he gave them more than they could eat. 

313. 
Straitway the fragments all collected were, 
Which fiifty hundred feasted Men bad left : 



When lo the total was exceeded fax 
By those remaining paru ; the springing Gift 
Persu'd its nue multiplication stil, 
And with the Relicu stufTd twelve baskets ftill. 

314. 
Know, Psyche, that thy wise Redeemer by 
This Wonder, to a greater op'd the way ; 
The long-design'd and precious Mystery 
Of bis dear Body; whidi He meant to lay 

On every Christian Altar, there to be 

The endless Feast of CathoUck Fiety, 

315. 

A Feast which shall increase upon its Guests, 

And keep intire when millions filled are : 

A Feeut of Miracles, a Feast of Feasts, 

Not to a Desert ty'd, but every where 
Dispers'd abroad, yet every where complete, 
That all the World may fi:eely come and eat 

3l6. 
The feasted People were dismissed now, 
And JESUS steps into that Mount to Pray: 
Sure 'twas that Bliss along with them might go. 
Whom from his Love he sent not yet away, 
That Night might not upon their path incroach, 
Nor danger's ambushment their foouteps touch. 

317. 

That by this Miracle, which {iroved to 

Their very teeth his Power Divine to be ; 

All other fiuitless Helps they might forego. 

And build their trust on his Divinity. 

His chosen Twelve mean time (for so their Lord 
Commanded had) were gone before aboard. 

318. 
That Sea, whose looks thou seest all polished 
With flattering calmness smil'd Just so on them 
When out they launch'd ; but dangerous Fraud lay hid 
Beneath the glass of that alluring stream : 
Truth needs no smiles ; 'tis only Treason* s face 
Whkh forced is to borrow painted Grace. 

319. 

As when an envious Spirit, who finds no way 

Safely to vex the Master's Person, makes 

His more obnoxious Ceunily his prey. 

And at the second hand his vengeance takes : 
So Satan now, too weak with Cksrisi to fight. 
On his Disciples vow*d to ease his spight 

330. 

Deeply he pin'd to see the People fed. 

And for himself, resolv'd to make a Feast ; 

Yet by the Sea's vast mouth he studied 

His dainties to devour ; and thus at least 
Part of the Miracle revenge, and though 
Not for the Loaves, quit for the Fishes grow. 



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321. 
His pride advis'd his wrsth not to forget 
What JarisdicUon he had long pretended 
Over the Aiiy Realm : and since a fit 
Occasion here mvited his offended 
And potent Majesty, to this road fight 
He muster'd his Aerial subjects' might. 



323. 
For from the AdriatUk Main, and from 
The AiiMfi Ocean, and the Irish Sea, 
He summon'd an the stoutest Storms to foam. 
And here disgoige their utmost treachery : 

He made each Wind pidc quarrels with his brother. 

And tumbled them in firantick war together. 

' 333. 

The Bast was peevish, sharp and grim the North, 
The Wtst impetuous, black and foul the South : 
Each pulTd and swell'd. and wildly belched forth 
Their fury full in one another's mouth : 
The brused Qouds in floods their sorrows pour'd. 
And all the weather-beaten Welkin roar'd. 

234. 
The utter'd Waves against the Shores were flung. 
But churlishly again they kick'd them back : 
Which sharp unkindness hideous mourning wrung 
From their torn mouths : the startled Deeps did quake. 
And thinking to escape that dismal fray 
From their profoundest bottoms ran away. 

335. 
Th' amazed Main within herself was lost. 
Whilst this stem Tempest vehemently bn^e 
Quite through her heart, and all her bowels tost 
About the groaning Air, with hopes to choke 
The Moon and Stars ; which wild confusion 
Made both the Waters and the Winds be one. 

336. 
And thus the Winds flow'd, and the Waters blew ; 
The Waves' loud fTa[n]gor with the Thunder's joyn'd ; 
The Lightning flashed, that misery to shew. 
In which all direful Dread and Death combin'd ; 

'Twixt Light and Darkness henoe grew such % fight. 

That now alas 'twtf neither Day nor Night. 

337. 
In httriyburly through the billowy Ahr 
A thousand dismal Afparitums flew, 
Whose bloody glaring eyes with deep Dispair 
The frighted looks of every Comfort slew. 

H€ll cbang'd XVi fiery Deeps in spightful sport. 

And in these humid Gulphs kept open Court. 

338. 
The woful Ship flung towards Heav'n in vain 
Upon the back of an uniisdthfttl Wave, 



Vnth dreadful modcery strait was phmg'd again 

Into the bottom of its gapfaig grave ; 
Which gave it there no rest, but spew'd it up 
With indignation to the Tempest's top. 

339. 

The Mast submitted to the Wind, and split ; 

The Sails forsook the Ship, and flew away ; 

The Hdm disdain'd the Pilot's useless wit. 

Who needed now some wiser hand to stay 
And steer himself : the Sea made bold to come 
Aboard, and take a view of every room. 

330. 
Load laugh'd the KUows at the Pumps, and in 
Proud flouts defy'd their frustrate power : each blast 
Bandy'd the Bark, contending which should win 
The credit of iu wradc : thus bang'd and tost 
In Tennis-courts a Ball thou oft hast view'd. 
Until some loss the boistrous Game conclude. 

231. 

For their Devotions all themselves apply'd, 

(For danger wakes the duUest piety,) 

O where is Jesus now ? his Scholars cry'd. 

How is his Promise wash'd away, since we 
Whom for Mem-fishers He designed had 
To Fishes now a booty must be made 1 

333. 
Yet as their lamentadons swell'd. the Tide 
Of louder Winds and Waves still drown'd their cry. 
They once for an most gladly would have dy'd, y 
But still they saw Deaths strangely multiply. 

And throw them and their Ship broken together. 

From on^ Destruction's mouth into another. 

f 233. 

Mean while the Gulph of Satan's boifing breast 

Wrought with as great a tempest of vexation, 

ToVie a craxy Vessel thus'^estst 

The Wind's and Sea's most eager conjuratioii : 
Puad'd and gall'd he woiKler'd what should make 
A Bark so often broke, refuse to break. 

334- 
When lo, shot thromgh a Cloud's prodigioiis crack, 
Continu'd Lightning smote the dasled Air ; 
By which one marching on the Tempest's back. 
The staring Men descry'd : and now new fear 
Stormed their wradced Souls : -Alas, they cry'd, 
By all these Deaths why might we not have dy'd ? 

335. 
Here, here the Spirit oomes, whose fiMal wrath 
Rais'd this tempestuous pre&oe to our woe : 
See how he hither bends his hasty path. 
And o'r the waves securely gallops ; lo, 

Which way soe'r he speaks, but with his hand. 

The Clouc^ start back, and reverence bis command. 



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199 



336. 

Mark how the awed Winds forbear to blow 

Disturbanoe in his way by boistrous weather ; 

And all offidoasly behind him go. 

Shewing that on his errand they came hither. 
He comes, he comes I sweet Sea, O gape not thus 
In vain, but from this danger swallow us. 

237. 
Forthwith their Lord, who heard this desperate cry, 
Thrust in his Comfort : Add no more, said He, 
This Tempest to your Storm of misery. 
Nor rend your Hearts with dread : mistake not Me, 
I am your loving lj»rd and Master , and 
Why fear you Death, now Lift 's thus near at band ? 

238. 

As He whose trembling neck lies ready under 
The coming axe. if some unlook'd-for voice 
Brings his Reprieve, 'twixt troubled joy and wonder 
He starts, and slowly understands the noise 
Of promis'd Life, already being dead 
In 's own despairing thoughu, and buried. 

239- 
So these Disciples, drowned in their fears. 
Now questioned their Eyes' fidelity, 
Which saw their Lord; nor could they trust their Ears. 
Although they heard himself profess 'twas He, 

The sudden influence of unhop'd-for BUss, 

Always a deluge of amasement is. 

240. 

But fervid PeUr, rousing up his Heart 

In con^dence's Ark, resolv'd to ride 

Above this Flood : though back the rest did start. 

He forward prest, and valiantly cry'd, 
O bid thy ready humble servant meet. 
If thou our MastMT art, thy blessed Feet. 

241. 
If thou deceiv'st us not, tech surly wave 
At thy injunction to my steps will bow. 
And with security my passage pave ; 
If otherwise ; Can I be worse than now ? 

The Sea into our Vessel crouds, and I ^*^ 

Must either here or there in water die. 

242. 

Come then, his gradous Master cry'd : But as 

He labour'd forward, lo an high-swoU'n wave 

Tumbling and foaming in his way, alas, 

Did all his courage instantly outbrave. 
His Heart sunk first, and then his Feet, and all 
But 's Tongue, iHiich sadly to his Lord did call. 

243- 
Had any other Lord but //e been there, 
With what indignant scorn would be have made 



His faithless Subject meet his censure where 
He more in sin than in the Sea did wade I 
But now OwMifotenee itself exprest 
Pity to Him, who dar'd iu Power distrust. 

244. 

yesiu, whose Ear delights to hear the cry 

Of suppliants, though Sinners, reach'd his Hand. 

(That Hand where only dwells Security; 

That Hand which rules the stubborn Ocean, and 
Measures it in its Palm,) and snatch'd him out 
From that deep Sea. and from his deeper Doubt. 

245. 
And then, O thou of little faith, said He, 
Why did that weak suspition press thee down ? 
What made thee so forget almighty Me 
Who can in their own Waves all TempesU drown ? 
Learn now, and blush, that Winds and Billows know 
The Power of their Maker more than Thou. 

246^ 

Here having step'd aboard, he tum'd his Eye 

Upon the Storm, and sternly signified 

His royal Will : their duty instantly 

The Winds discover'd in that Glance, and hied 
Away in such great haste and fear, that they 
Lost all their Breath and Spirits by the way. - 

247. 
The mutinous Billows saw his awfiil Look, 
And hush'd themselves all close into their Deep : 
The Sea grew tame and smooth ; the Thunder broke 
Its threatning off : forth durst no Lightning peep, 
But kept its black Nest, now outshined by 
The flashing Mandates of its Masters Eye. 

9 248. 

The Devils who all this while had toss'd and rent 
The Elements, perceiv'd the final Wrack 
Fall on their own Design, and yelling went 
Home to their Pangs ; the Clouds in sunder brake 
And having cl^'d the Scene of these loud Wars, 
Left Heav'n's free face all full of smiling Stars. 

249. 

Forthwith the Ship without or Sail, or Tide, 
Kept strait its course, and flew to kiss the shore : 
Where Jesus deigns to be the Vessel's Guide, 
Where needs no help of Time, Tide, Wind, or Oar : 
His Eye alone might drive ^he Bark, whose Look 
Abash'd the Sea, the Storm with terror stroke. 

2Sa 
His Eye, his Eye is that eternal Star 
Which gildeth both the Poles ; which day and night 
Equally shines ; which guides all those who are 
Sailing in Life's rough Sea : for by his Light 
And none but his, each mortal Mariner 
Who goes for Safety's Port, his Course must steer. 



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CANTO X. 



351. 
Mark now that shore of populous GtuoMr, 
Where from a Storm He once ani^'d before : 
Great was the Wonder He atchieved there, 
N Not on tempestuous Winds and Seas, but mote 

Outxafeous Funds, who had themselves posaest 
Of an unhappy Man's usurped breast 

35X 
Those Tombs shut out of town thou seest there 
These Dtvils made his sullen habitation. 
To damned Spirits such places dearest are 
As most invite to desolate Desperation. 
But henceforth Christian Cttmiierigs shall 
Revenge this boldness, and all Hell appaL 

253- 
Which Truth, the Fitmd who wears the fiunous Name 
Of wise A^la shall at length confess 
To his own Julian, in the stinging shame 
Of forced Silence, when great Bakylds, 
Intombed Dust shall able be to stop 
His lying mouth, and seal his OrucU up. 

254. 

Oft drove they to that neighbour Mountain's brow 
The frantidc staring Wight, in hopes that he 
Out of his tiresome Life himself would throw 
Into their Pit of deeper Misery. 
A thousand Snakes about his heart they wound, 
WhUst Rage and Madness did his brain confound. 

255. 
The froth of which Confusion foamed out 
At his unquiet mouth : sometimes he roar'd ; 
Sometimes he sung ; sometimes his frensy wrought 
As high as Blasphemy, and freely pour'd 
A rayling flood on Heav'n and God, whom yet 
He thought not of in all his raving fit. 

256. 

The Rocks and Tombs he tore with hideous Cries, 
Which bellow'd fright on every Passenger : . 
Poetick fancy never could devise 
Such dismal Barking for fierce Scylla, or 
Fell Cerberus ; nor could the Tkundgr's voice 
Though louder, make so terrible a Nc^se. 

257. 
For how should Monsters speak, but like themselves ! 
But for sweet-tuned Man to howle and yell, 
Doubles the prodigy : nor were those Etves 
Who make Damnation's Sink with Horrors swell. 
Such frightful Devils, as they now appear. 
Had they not once shin'd in tb' Angelick sphere. 

358. 

All Men he hated ; but Himself much more 
Than all his other foes, yet knew not why : 



Alas, 'twas ^«i/whkh in hU soul did roar, 
That sworn Maligner of Humanity : 

Heli, which with all the World maintaineth wars. 

But chiefly with itself for ever jars. 

259. 
And til his boaom now it boils so hot ; 
That he impatient of All Rayment grew. 
('Twas Satan* s dearest firtt-begotten Plot 
Man's naked shame to lay in open view). 

His deaths he rent, and then pluck'd off his hair. 

And star'd about for something else to tear. 

26a 

The sharpest Stones whfeh in the Rocks he spy'd 

His crud love more than aU Jewda won ; 

With those his vengeance on htmsdf he tryd. 

And lin'd it out upon his launced skin. 
And though they pained him, yet still to spight 
His Pains, he in his Wounds would take delight 

261. 
Hast at the stake a roaring Bull bdidd, 
Wony'd by ten keen Mastiib, and in goce 
And gashes doth'd ? that Spectade must yidd 
To his bemangled shape of horror ; for 

Not all the Dogs of Albion can tear 

A Bull, as he himself hi^ baited here. 

262. 
His tatter'd browa hung down below* his eyes ; 
kis mouth and nose met in one rent ; his head 
Was slash'd ; the bones star'd in his plowed thighs. 
His sides were gash'd ; his arms and bosom flead ; 
His wounds concurr'd, and drowned one another 
Like Rivers blended in the Sea together. 

263. 
And wonder not that all this tedious while 
His vital Powers could be so hardy as 
Pain's tide to stem, and be confederate still 
With his tormented Heart : the Fiends could pass 
No further than their Chain, which though it reach'd 
His Body, could not to his Life be stretch'd. 

264. 

(So when their King commissfon had to try 

The valour of the Idmmean Frimce 

Against a siege of Boils, and Battery 

Of thousand wounds Job's Life made brave defence ; 
And spight of any Mines, roaintain'd his Breath's 
Strong Arsenal against an host of Deaths.) 

265. 
This added to their eveifooiling spight 
New raging fire, by which they stung his wrath. 
To wreak itself on every mortal Wight, 
Whose hard hap damn'd them to his headlong path. 
Thus all about the coast this terror spread. 
And cares, and fears, and plou awakened. 



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20I 



266. 
As when a Lyon from the Forest broke, 
Invades some Shepherd's pasture, every Town 
Which borders on that sad mischance, doth look 
Upon their neighbor's danger as their own, 
And all their country arms, and dogs unite 
Against the publick foe in common fight : 

267. 
Th' alarmed Gaderens so combin'd their strength, 
The ffsrj of this raving Man to tame : 
In vain a while they grapled, tiU at length 
By nqmber not by power they overcame ;.• 
And loading him with chains and fetters, hop'd 
They now had his mischievious torrent stop'd. 

268. 

But he with ireful smiles disdain'd their plot, 

And rending off his idle fetters, threw 

Them at their scorned heads : No bands they got. 

Their oft-defeated project to renew, 
Whether of steel or brass, but served Him 
For engins, which he tore, and flung at them. 

269. 
Triumphant thus in fierceness, he espied 
Thy Lord upon that shore, and to him ran : 
But never with more hideous bellowing cry'd, 
Nor madlier beat or cut himself, than when 
Near Jesus he approached, from whose look 
Both pity now, and indignation broke. 

270. 
His bowels yeam'd, his anger flam'd, to see 
Hell domineering in that tortured Breast 
Of which his Sovereign Self, and Heav'n should be 
By their eternal right alone possest. 
This made Him by that Power which chas'd away 
Of late that other Tempest, this allay. 

271. 

Foul Fiend, he cry'd, usurp that Hold no more ; 

The Man is mine, and I his Lord will be. 

Come forth, thou bold Intruder, and restore 

Thy prize again, both to himself and Me. 
O mighty Voice/ which rent the Devil more 
Then he had done the woful Man before. 

272. 
For as the Slave, who broken is by stealth 
Into his Master's closet, revda there 
Amc»g the Bags of ready-ooined wealth, 
And any Bills or Bonds presumes to tear. 
Making all fuel for his peevish rage. 
And thus revenging his own Vassalage ; 

373. 
But If his Master's miexpected Eye 
H^ypcns to apprehend him in his sin ; 

46 



That glance, like lightning's dint, so piercingly 
Affiicu his thievish guilty Soul, that in 

Base-hearted thankless meekness down he falls. 

And on his wretched face for pardon calls : 

274. 
So did the Fiend: in one huge gust of horror 
Were all the World's deep dying groans united. 
They could not tear the Skies with so much terror. 
As did his EjuloHon; which affirig|^ted, 

And forc'd the mourning Tombs, and Rocks and Sea 

In its impatient Echo to agree. 

375- 

Jesus, thou highest Son of God most high. 

Am I a match, an equal Match for Thee? 

If I must yield my Fort, and naked lie, 

Whilst Thou triumph'st and tramplest upon me ; 
Yet by thy Fathers Name I thee conjure, 
Thou damn me not new torments to endure. 

^ 276. 
But smce the Lord had stretch'd him on the rack. 
He charg'd the Traitor to confess his Name : 
O how this Mandate did his Heart-strings crack, 
Which snatch'd the vaQ from off his ugliest shame ; 
And for one Serpen^ which the World supposed 
There to have lurk'd, a Legi^m disclosed. 

277. 

No other Name he durst acknowledge now 

But Legion ; for so indeed they wm. 

Vile Cowards, what is Dust and Clay, that you 

So numerous an Army mustered there ? 
Fine credit 'tis for troops of Spirits to lay 
Their ambush one poor mortal Man to slay. 

278. 

But O, that Men. whose mystick obligation 
Of mutual Membership doth them invite 
To careful tenderness, and free compassion ; 
With such confederate seal, and stout delight 

WouM help their Brethren up the heav'nly HiU. 

As these contrive to plunge them deep in Hell I 

279. 
There hadst thou been, my Dear, thou might'st have 

seen 
In what a fearful lamentable guise 
These Detnls to their prayers fdl, to win 
Some pity from thy Lords imperious Eyes : 
Which did the baseness of their Spirit prove, 
Who stoop'd to fawn on whom they scorn to love. 

280. 

Him they beseecfa'd to let them harbor still 

In this cool R^on, and not force them home. 

They knew they should too hot have found their Hell. 

If they had back without their Errand come ; 
That disappointed Saiam on their head 
Would an his boiling wnth have emptied. 

2C 



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2S1. 

Besides ; their proper Diooess was this 

Nor might their jinisdictioii further go : 

For SttioM here cants out his Provinas, 

And an his Z^q^«lMf dispoaeth so 
That no Commission Jarreth with another, 
Nor any Fiind incroacheth on his brother. 

282. 
And this he do's in insolent emulation 
or that &ir Poiiiy by fieav'n Elected, 
Whereby each Empbe, Kingdom. Country, Nation, 
By some Angilic Pairom is protected, 

Guided, and goferned ; as every Man 

By his particular vigilant Guardian. 

a83. 

What wou)d*st thou have us do, they cry'd ; Can we 

Made all of active metal, idle sit ? 

Are we not Divils f how can Dtvils be 

For any thing but rage and fixry fit? 
Mischief's our proper diet ; why wilt thou 
Who all things feed'st, not Usoor food allow ? 

284. 
If we must be, we must be wliat we are ; 
Inftrmal Spirits can no change admit : 
For sure our venturous though unfortunate War 
Against thy self, thou never wilt forget ; 

Nor rep o as e a s Us of our calmy state 

So that we now are Furious fy Faig. 

285. 

Besides ; we Subjects are (and thine own hand 
Buckled this yoke on our rebellious necks.) 
To that fanpatient Prince^ whose dire Command 
Back'd with Hell's universal Terrors, pricks 
Us on to Rage ; and we do nothing now, 
But what in duty to our Lord we ow. 

286. 
Had we without Commission hither flown. 
And garrison'd this Man's strong-4»iilded breast. 
The &ult, whate'r it is, had been our own : 
But since by Order we this Hold possest. 
Our Gtuira/ must in equity, not We 
Poor common Soldiirs, answer it to Thee. 

287. 
As then Thou art a generous Conqueror, 
Give reasonable Quarter to thy Foes : 
Since needs we must surrender, e'r we stir, 
Ingage thy promise, that we shall not loose 
Our natural Properties ; some power leave us 
(For 'tis no crime in us,) to be Misckiivous, 

288. 
An Herd of Swine th«e feeds on yonder Mount, 
(And that 's it P^fdk$t) BeMtasq filthy that 



They seem'd unworthy in thine own account. 

And justly too, to be thy Servants' meat. 
Yet what to Jtws thou mad'st impure, shall be 
Dainties to Us, if thou wilt leave us free. 

289. 

Free, our own swindge to take, and domineer 

In those despised reprobated Things. 

XifrtfsDtidls did to Thee preliBr 

A sute more fair, more humble, may our wings 
And Snakes be dip'd, our Tallons prun'd, our stout 
Horns lopped off, our iron Teeth dash'd out. 

290. 

The FUrus pleaded so ; and with an eye 

Where fear insulted over jealous Hope ; 

Beheld their Judgit : He knew the reason why 

They begg'd that ugly boon ; he knew their scope 
Was. that the Swiue to Man might seem a Creature 
Curs'd and abandon'd by the God o/Naturt. 

291. 
Yet Ifg was pleased, (whither to avenge 
The Owner's Avarice, or for some deep cause 
Known to his wisest Sdf.) to let these strange 
Dwellers upon those brutish Mansions seize : 

For He to whom the whole World's Rights belong. 

Can all things do, and yet can do no Wrong. 

292. 
As when in pregnant Etna's labouring womb 
The smoaking flaming and sulphureous Child 
Is to its horrible matureness come ; 
The moved bowels of the Mount are fill'd 

With pangs and throws, till by a roaring birth 

The stinking Prodigy is broken forth : 

293- 
With such tormenting Travel felt this Afau 
His entrails torn whilst Nett was bursting thence : 
Rank NgU, which with more baneful vapors than 
The worst of fuming brimstone choak'd his sense : 

And surely he had by that Stink and Pain. 

Had Li/e not looked 00, been dou^lt sUun, 

294. 
But ne'r did Air put on so calm a fece^ 
When every Wind to its own home was blown. 
And Heav'n of all its storms deliver'd ; as 
Redeemed He, now once again Jlis own : 
Finding the Furios whteh his heart did swell, 
Had left Himsti/within Himstlfxo dwelL 

295. 
As startled from some black and fiightlul Dream, 
His safetie's oount'naoce he with wonder saw : 
In sober rayment strait he hides his shame. 
Or rather Theirs whose treason made him throw 

It off before, and doth his body round 

In one unnatural universal wound. 



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296. 
No frantick fumes now reaked in his head ; 
dear as the upper Region was his brain, 
And with his heart distinctly trafficked ; 
Whose trade his InUlUct maintain'd again 

Whilst his late-cheating fiancy thrusts no more 

Adulterate Wares upon him, as before. 

297. 
His furious Passions bowing to the yoke 
Of temperate Reason^ tamely grew serene : 
His Will her mighty throne more wisely took, 
And reigned like a stout but warey Queen. 
His Thought's Pulse in his Soul beat gently, and 
Taught him his Bliss and Self to understand. 

398. 

He understood to whom his Thanks were due, 

To whom his rescu'd heart, his life, his peace ; 

To his sweet task of Gratitude be flew 

In holy haste, but flew upon his knees : 
And then at his divine Redeenur's feet, 
As his meek Scholar, begg'd, and took his seat. 

299. 

Mean while the Devils to the Mountain made 

Upon the wings of fury and disdain : 

For though they scom'd the Swine; yet since they had 

No better prey, their spight could not refrain. 
The feedmg Herd strait felt their bellies swell 
With unknown stuffing, being stretch'd with Hell. 

300. 

As at the Orgies, when the Priests are drown'd 

In their mad God, they grow as wild as He; 

They siare, they roar, they rave, they tumble round. 

And only in confounded strife agree : 
So here the swine brake into raging revels. 
Being drunk with this full Legion of Devils. 

301. 

They grunt, they whine, they squeak, they foam, they 

leap. 
They stumbtei fell, and rise, and fall again ; 
Their tusks in one another's blood they steep, 
Bui oftnest in their own : the Dogs in vain 

Did bark, in vain the swineherds cry and swear. 

The Herd no Clamor but their own could hear. 

302. 
At length in one mad hurry to that Brow 
By which into the Sea the Mountain peeps. 
They headlong run, and one another throw . 
In loud tumultuous throngs into the. Deeps. 
And thus those Devils drown'd their wretched Prey, 
Their own long thirst of Mischief to allay. 

303. 
Observe that other shore : thy Spouse* s fame 
Shin'd with no less illustrious Glory there : 



VHtness Her fisith who fix>m Phenicia came 
Wisely to take miraculous Pbysick here. 
She long had her Phenician Doctors tiy'd. 
Who not her Blood: s but Puru*s Issue dry'd. 

304- 
Bnt here she found a strange PhysiHan, whose 
Sole Pl^^k is his sovereign self, and who 
Gratis on all his heav'nly Art bestows : 
Yet her unclean Disease's shame did so 
Confute its Pain, that rather than reveal 
Her Sidmess, she resolves its Cure to steal 

305. 
(O gratioos Modesty, how potent are 
Thy tender Laws, which, Uiough despised by 
Bold self-applauding souls, alone outdare 
The saucy Armies of Impiety ; 
And Keep in Safety's garrison from peril 
All those who war in Virtue's noble Quarrel !) 

306. 

Her meekly-foithfiil heart had caught fieist hold 
On Jesu's garment's verge : and O, cry'd she. 
Could but my fingers do as much, I would 
Not doubt to catch my safe Recovery. 
Which said, the pious Thief took heart, and stept 
Into the Crowd, and there behind Him crept. 

307. 
Then her most trembling most undoubting Hand 
Upon His lowest Hem she gently stay'd ; 
Whidi with a tripple Kiss she reverenc'd, and 
Her meek soul on that humble Altar lay'd : 

But whilst her bhishing Blood flush'd in her face. 

She felt its other Current dryed was. 

308. 
For as on Aaron's consecrated head 
The holy Unguent would not tiridled be. 
But down his beard its predous influence shed 
And fully reach'd his robe's extremity : 
So did the Virtue of this higher Priest 
His utmost Clothes with mystick Power invest. 

309- 
But Jesus, who could not permit that such 
Heroick Paith it self should smother up ; 
Inquires what Hand his vesture's skirt did touch. 
And set the Issue of his Virtue ope ; 
That Virtue's mighty Issue which alone 
Could wash away this Woman's bloody one. 

She hearing this, and guilty of the high 

And faithful Theft, fell trembling at his fieet. 

ConfiessiQg all her blessed Crime, and why 

So timorously her Boldness acted it : 
But while she fear'd her Saviour's anger, He 
Applauds the ftct, and bids her cheerly be. 



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3". 

£>amgiUer, he cries (for those his Children are 

Whose holy Confidenoe oo Him relies,) 

Henceforth for ever banish needless fear ; 

Thy valiant Faith secures and fortifies 
Thy re-obtained Health : go home, and be 
Assur'd my Peac» shall sojourn there with thee. 

Her sealous Thanks she pay'd, and homeward went ; 

But His dear Image in her heart she bore. 

Resolv'd to fix it in a Monument 

Of lasting Gratitude ; which at her door 
She reared up, and made Ctsarea far 
More nobly beauteous than it was aware. 

3«3. 

Erected there hi bright substantial Brass 
Thy Spous€*s statue shines ; and so shall stand 
Till Julian with a more obdurate &ce 
And heart, than is that Metal, shall command 

The reverend Efiigies to come down 

And yield its stately Basis to his own. 

314. 

His own ; which when on heav'n it 'gins to stare. 

Shall learn what Vengeance dwells in Jtsu's hand ; 

From whence a speedy bolt of fire shall tear 

The proud and sacrilegious Idol ; and 
Warn its bold Ottm^r timely to forbear 
Affix>nting thus the padent Thundtrer^ 

315- 
But yonder. Psychic holy Tabor is, 
A Mount enobled by a brighter Story, 
The Temple's HiU bow'd down its head to this. 
And vail'd its Lq^al to the Gospel Glory, 
To this, the Mount, where Satan's Pageant op'd 
The Universe's pompous Beauties, stoop'd. 

316. 
Thither thy L^rd once pleased to withdraw, 
With three Attendants, Peter, James, and John, 
Leaving the rest, and all the World below ; 
That in Devotion's proper region 
His soul might move ; since his design was now 
To pray himself, and teach his Consorts how. 

317. 

To be retired from tumultuous things. 

And sequestred from heavy clc^gging Earth. 

Two trusty Ladders are which Wisdom brings 

To help true Prayers climb ; two Ladders worth 
All Climaxes which ever yet were set 
Up by the loftiest strains of eloquent wit, 

3i8. 
He pray'd : and with such noble ardency 
That through his eyes his flaming Spirit broke, 



And stoutly flash'd to Heav'n : no Piety 

In such a splendid chariot ever took 
Its blessed joumy to the throne of God, 
Nor in such humbly-foyal triumph rode. 

319. 

Day's wonted Motutrck daxell'd at the sight 

Admir'd what other Sun from earth did rise ; 

With whose victorious Looks too weak to fight. 

He some new ev'n sought for his vanquish'd eyes. 
And well the Day could spare bis garish beams 
Being gilded by his Makers purer flames. 

32a 

For He who in his Bodie's vail till now 

The Rays of his Divinity had hid. 

Released them into free leave to flow 

And roul about him in a glistering tide. 
Thus when his Key unlocks the clouds, from thence 
The lightning pours iu radiant Influence. 

321. 

But as that inexhausted fount of light 

Which bubbles up in Titan's limpid eyes. 

Sheds over all his royal robes its bright 

Effusions, and his Charet glorifies, 
So that about Heav'n's Circuit He is roU'd 
Enthron'd and cloath'd in living sparkling Gold. 

322. 

So from thy Spouses more than sunlike faux. 

The Lustre all about his Rayment darted : 

A Lustre whose divine and gentle grace 

It self with kind magnificence imparted 
To that weak mortal Texture, which so pure 
Immortal brightness else could not endure. 

323- 
Thus when a dainty /j^ivk in Summer air 
To lambent Jire by nature's sporting turns, 
And lightly rides on Men's Attire or Hair ; 
With harmless flames it plays, and never burns 
Its habitation, but feeds upon 
The Delicates of its own Beams alone. 

324. 
As his Disciples wonder'd at the Sight 
Which peeping through their fingers they beheld. 
They spy'd two Strangers, whom with courteous light 
The surplusage of Jesus' s Beams did gild. 
They wistly looked on them, musing who 
The Men might be, and what they came to do. 

325. 
The first ware homed beams (though something dim 
In this more radiant Presence.) on his fiux ; 
Full was his beard ; his countenance 'twixt grim 
And pleasant, breathing medc but stately Grace : 
His robes were large and princely ; in his hand 
He held a mystick and Imperious wand. 



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326. 
A golden Plate both deck'd and arm'd his breast. 
In which the T£h great Words inammel'd were ; 
A grave a goodly Man he was, and drest 
In sadi attire, that they no longer are 

In doubt about him, but conclude that He 

Mous the Legislator needs must be. 

327. 
The other, sagely solemn in his look. 
But course and homespun in his garb appear 'd ; 
Nor had he any mantle's help to doke 
That vileness which in his poor nyment star'd ; 

The serious beams which darted from his eye, 

SpcdLB eremitical severity. 

328. 
Two Ravenst whose plumes taught blackness how to 

shine. 
Upon his venerable shoulders sate : 
And ravenous now no more, did freely join 
Their services in purveying for his meat ; 
For in their fiaithful beaks they ready had 
The one a piece of flesh, the other bread. 

329- 
Behind him stood 2^ flaming Chariot^ 
With steeds all of the same fierce Element ; 
Nor was their fire more than their Courage hot. 
And much ado they had to stand content 

Which Tokens having well observ'd, they knew 

Those Indications must Elias shew, 

330. 

These two grand Prophets, whom thy Lordgja^y^ leave 

To wear some glorious beams, though He were by. 

Their reverend Discourses interwove 

Of his Humanitie's Oeconomy ; 
With high ecstatick Words displaying how 
At Salem He Death's Power should overthrow. 

331- 

A Doctrine which on his Disciples' ear 

(And this their Master knew,) fiill hard would grate ; 

And therefore by these glorious Preachers here 

With high solemnity was witness'd, that 
His Crosse's and his Nails' mysterious shame 
Might not with scandal shake, forewarned Them. 

332. 

His Rod then Moses at his feet laid down. 

In token that He had fulfill'd his Law: 

And came to give a nobler of his own, 

To which not only Jacob* s Seed should bow. 
But all the Woiid, whose largest furthest bound 
With Jesus and his Gospel was to sound. 

333. 
That done ; a vail he drew upon his face. 
And cry'd, Bright Lord, this shade I us'd of old 



Because my Count'nanoe too illustrious was 

For those blear Eyes of Israel to behold : 
But now mine own have need of it, to skreen 
Them from that splendor's dint which shoots from 
thine. 

334. 
This though refracted Vision's fuller Bliss 
Than I of old beheld from N^o's head ; 
How happily was I (reserv'd for this 
Far fairer Privilege,) not suffered 

To enter then, and feed my Wonder on 

The less amazing sweets of Canaan I 

335. 
But in a generous meek Expostulation 
Blias argu'd with his glorious Lord: 
And, Why, said he, in such triumphant fiashion 
Me didst Thou whirle to heav'n, and not afford 
Thy servant leave to taste Death* s bitter Cup, 
Since Thou thy self resolv'st to drink it up ! 

336. 

Must Jesus, and must not Elias die? 

Must God, and not a Worm t forbid it Thou 

Who of all Order art the Deity, 

And Death to my Mortality allow : 
I '1 be contented with the last to stay, 
Ev'n till Time dies, if then I ollso may. 

337. 

O pardon my Ambition to die. 

Since, dearest Lord, it is for Thee alone : 

If for thy Name, and in thy Quarrel I 

The Robes of Martyrdom may once put on, 
My passage up to heav'n shall brighter be 
Thui when my flaming Coeu:h transported Me. 

338. 

Ask me not what Reply great Jesus gave 
To these Devotos, since nor James, nor John, 
Nor Peter ever had their Master's leave 
To ope this Secret to the World. But on 

Their heads, when they had their due season staid. 

He his dismissing Hand and Blessmg laid. 

339. 

Then having by a tripple Kiss ador'd 

His sacred foot : into his Chariot 

Elias leap'd, and through the Welkin scour'd 

As swift as Arrow by the Tartar shot : 
And Moses, spreading out his ready Vail, 
Homeward to Abraham's blessed Pon set sail. 

340. 
When lo a Cloud came rolling on and stretch'd 
Its shady curtains o'r the Mountain's top : 
A precious Cloud, with God's own voice imich'd ; 
For as it brake, no other Rain did drop 
But these dear Words, My Darling Son is This, 
Hear Him, in whom my Joy triumphant is. 



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341. 
The faint DiseipUs on their 6»es fell, 
Amas'd that Thunda* eoiild diitincdjr speak : 
Mean while their Lord was pleased to recall 
And chai|^ his Glory's Beams to hasten back : 
His Godhtad needed now no more probation, 
That Glimpse being doubled by Heav'n's Attestation. 

342. 
Forthwith his Rales shrunk home into his breast, 
And moderate Beauty repossess'd his face : 
The orient Lustre which his Cloths had drest 
To their plain native hue resign'd its place ; 
And He retum'd to his Capacity 
ex. what he long'd for, shame and Misery. 

343- 
But turn thee now to SaUmwardy and see 
New Monuments of both his Power and Love. 
That Hill is 5mw. and that Pool where he 
Wets his lai^ foot, is Siloam ; above 
Its bottom Hes, for in the Mountain's breast 
lU Springs of Living Silver make their Nest. 

344- 
Springs wohet and discreet ; which brake not forth 
fi^ wanton Chance, but t^on BMS*n4ss flow'd. 
Right noble is the Story ; and its Worth 
Beyond the knowledge of th' illiterate Crowd : 

But I, dear Psyeki, will unkxk to thee 

The bowels of this ancient Mystery. 

345. 

When Virtue's Sovereign, Hudnoi sate 

On Judah's throne, th' Assyrian Power swell'd high. 

And turned sinliil IsrmtVs florid state 

Into the worst of Woes, Captivity : 
For Assmr then was made the iron Rod 
Which Vtngoanu put faito the hand of God. 

34^ 
That first Success so pufTd the Rod with Pride, 
That it forgot the Hand which sway'd it then : 
And now would needs It self become a guide 
Unto it self, and choose its Prey : but in 
Its proudest height the Rod^s rash plot was crost, 
And near two hundred thousand Twiggs it lost. 

347. 
Whilst Rabskikat the Foulmouth'd General, 
With Horse, and Men, and Brags, and Blasphemies 
Beleaguer'd 5a/Mt, on the suddain all 
Their stock of Water &il'd ; but that which Eyes 

Sad Eyes distiU'd, and which but filled up 

Thebr vast AfiBiction's lamentable Cup. 

348- 
And now compassionate Esa^f mov'd to try 
What credit he with Hsav'n and Mtrcy had. 



Tuned his Prayer by the People's Cry ; 

Which with such violenoe beat the ear of God, 
That strong^ bounding back to Sion's foot. 
And his own knees, it made the Spring leap out. 

349- 
The thirsty People all came flocking in. 
Their Mouths, their Bottles, and their Souls, to fill 
Th' Assyriatu wonder'd what those Crowds might mean, 
Until they spy'd their bnis'ness at the Well ; 
And then they made a Party out, to stop 
The newborn Spring, or else to drink it up. 

350- 

Forthwith the Citisens themsdves betook 
To flight ; so did the Ponnt, and shrunk its head 
Into the Hill, and called back its Brook, 
Commanding every Drop to go to bed. 

And not to prostitute themselves, and be 

Deflour'd by Assures lips' impurity. 

351. 

The Streams obey'd, and swifter than the speed 

Of those impatient Horsmen, homeward nm. 

So when the prudent Dame has summoned 

Her crawling frie to shun th' incursion 
Of ^olenoe, the nimble Serpents shoot 
Themsdves into their Mother's ready throat 

352. 

The disappointed Soldiers rav*d and swore. 
To see the Ponntain mock and scorn their Might ; 
And cry'd, these Jews have by some magick power 
Broached this wiley Spring from Hell, to spigfat 
Sonmackerib* s Legions, and shew that We 
Cannot so strong as wretched Water be. 

353- 
Thus they retreated hi disdain and wrath : 
When strait theb Thirst the Jews brought back again. 
The Spring as soon found out its former path. 
And courteously met them on the Plain ; 
Kissing their feet, and smiling hi their face. 
For whose sole service He so watdilul was. 

354. 
Thus chedcering his work, he never fidls 
To ftdl his foes, and to befriend his friends. 
Full often Assur tries, but ne'r prevails. 
To catch the wary nimble stream, which sends 

Him always empty back ; and waited still 

With fresh supplies on thirsty IsraeL 

355- 
The fam'd Sabbatick Pomnt which all the week 
Keeps dose at home, and lete no drop spurt out. 
Exactly thus attends the Seventh Day's Break ; 
At whose first peeping Dawn, as quick as Thought 

It pours its flood, and sacrifices all 

Its Plenty to that holy Festival 



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356. 

A Man there was» whom from her secret Shop 

Dark and retired Nature sent abroad 

Into the World, yet from him shut it up. 

And him in 's proper home an Exile made. 
Compar'd with him, clear-sighted was the Owl, 
So was the evening Bat, and earthed MouL 

357. 
For on his brow sate an anneiled Night 
Which his Birth-day could not confute ; in vain 
His Mother hir'd the sage Physitian's Might 
To war against that Shadow, and constrain 

That inbred sturdy Blackness to relent ; 

In vain her money and her love she spent. 

358. 

Less thick that Darkness was which did revenge 

The lustful Glances of wild Sodom's eyes ; 

When those hot Lovers damped by a strange 

Invasion of pitch, with oaths and cries 
Tumbled and toss'd themselves from place to place. 
And sought Lot's Door in one another's face. 

359. 
As Jesus spy'd this helpless Wight, (for He 
Watch'd to surprise all Objects of Compassion,) 
Speeded by his own heav'nly Charity, 
To his relief he flies. This generous fashion 

Love duly follows, and ne'r stajrs to be 

Woo'd and importun'd to a Courtesy. 

360. 

The groping Man perceiving one draw nigh, 

Fen to the Beggar's covetous Dialect ; 

He Money, Money crav'd : but that 's not my 

Largise, Uiy Lord reply'd, which doth infect 
Those who admire it ; surely thou wouldst find 
What Bane thou begg'st, wert thou not double Blind. 

361. 
Alas thou b^;gest that, which should I grant 
Would make thee poorer than thou wert before, 
Thou begg'st such Wealth as would but gain thee want 
Of that cheap Rest thou now injoyest ; for 
Money is that bewitching thoughtful Curse 
Which keeps the heart close Pris'ner in the Purse. 

362. 
Money 's that most mischievous Dust which flies 
Full in the face of undisceming Man, 
Not suflTring his abus'd and damned Eyes 
To see the way to Heav'n ; if thou didst scan 
Thy state aright, thou mightst thy BUndness bless 
Who seest not what this monstrous Mon^ is. 

3^3- 
A thinner Clay than that I '11 temper, which 
Shan fax exceed the worth of Gold to thee : 



They are not Moneys beams which can inrich 
With pure and lasting wealth ; from none but Me 
Flow forth those efficadous genuine Rays, 
Which bless the Age with sweet and golden Days. 

364- 

This said, three times he spit upon the ground. 

And moulded with his hand a sovereign Clay : 

No salve by deepest Art was ever found. 

Which could so sure aU Maladies allay : 
Should Balsam's self faU sick and die, the power 
Of this sole Unguent would its Ufe restore. 

365- 
This on his Patient's Eyes he spred ; and yet 
Although he cur'd them, gave them not their sight : 
First an Experiment he meant to get 
Whether his inner Eyes of Faith were bright ; 
Then, with his Favor to reward and grace 
The Poolt which long before so pious was. 

366. 
Bethesda Waters swell'd with full-tide fame ; 
Wherefore though apt occasion him invited. 
Time was when he refus'd to honour them : 
But fail he would not, to respect these sldghted. 
Though worthy Streams, which as his partners He 
In this miraculous work vouchsafd to be. 

367. 

To Siloam go, said he, and wash thine Eyes. 

And thou shalt see what I to thee have given ; 

With holy Confidence strait thither hies 

The joyful Man ; no Hart was ever driven 
By scalding thirst more greedily to cool 
Refreshing Brook, than he to find this Pool, 

368. 
He went to drink, not with bis Mouth, but Eyes ; 
Which as he wash'd, behold he washed ope : 
Out flew black Night, with aU those dusky ties 
By which his sense before was chained up ; 
And his released sparkling Pupils show'd 
Like sprightful Lightning from the broken Cloud. 

369. 

He now both Ihres, and seeth that he lives. 
And Heav'n and Earth more than by hear-say knows. 
No part of aU the Universe but gives 
Him a remembrance, unto whom he ows 
His power of viewing it. O happy he 
Who must in every thing his Savior see ! 

37a 
Since from the Darknes of the first Abyss, 
The groveling World was wakened into Light ; 
Ne'r was atchiev'd so strange a Cure as this, 
Which on condemned Eyes bestowM Sight, 
In spight of Nature, who had put them out 
Before she gave them leave to look about. 



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CANTO X. 



371. 
Mark PsycJU, now that love-renowned Town, 
Gieat Saitm's little Neighboar Betkamy : 
A Place of dear Remembrance, and well known 
To thy great Li»rd : fkom Salem's tumalts He 

Would oft withdraw into that calm retreat. 

And still as oft 's he came he Welcome met 

372. 

For there two Sisters dwelt, an holy P«dr 

Who with all hospitably-pious love 

To entertain this Gtust ambitious were ; 

And by their most obsequious service strove 
To let Him know They did no Owner deem 
Of what they kad or toert, but only ffim. 

373- 
Industrious Martha ; unto whom although 
This World were something still, (in which she drove 
Her practick trade of life,) yet well she knew 
Twas less than nothing unto that abcve; 
The Cream of her Solicitude she spent 
To purchase more than secular Content. 

374- 
Pathetick Mary: one whom Merty made 
Her chosen triumph : this was lusi/ul She 
Who in the hottest troop of Sinners had 
A leading Place ; such stout Impiety 
Incouraged her heart, that Hell could put 
Her on no Task but she would dare to do't. 

375- 

For seav'n foul Devils had themselves possest 

Of all her Soul, and with imperious port 

High in th' usurped palace of her breast 

Their throne erected and maintain'd their court ; 
And all the WarranU which they issued thence 
She still obey'd with desperate diligence. 

376. 

But Jesus, who his Pity squared by 

No Merit he in mortal Man could read. 

But for bis Rule took their Capacity 

Of Succour ; found how much this Heart did need 
His potent Help ; whkh he forthwith apply'd 
And made her Live who now Seav'n times had dy'd. 

377. 

For from the bottom of her pois'ned breast 

Seat/n hideous deadly Sims she vomited ; 

And thus from Hell's oppression releast 

High toward Heav'n she rais'd her zealous bead ; 
Flaming with purest fire of Love, as she 
Before had smoak'd in Lust's impurity. 

378. 
Her brave Devotion she measured now 
By that large Size of Mercy she had gain'd 



For as no bounds that noble Mercy knew. 

So to Infinitude her Love she strain'd ; 
She strafaied hard, and would the top have reach'd 
Could mortal Fasskm to that pitch have stretch'd. 

379- 
O Psyche, hadst thou present been when she 
On Love's dear enand to her Master came. 
Thou mightst have seen impatient Piety 
Mount in the boldness of its generous flame : 
First at his feet it 'gan, and then it spread 
With fair and liberal fuhiess to his head. 

380. 
That fmgrant Ointment which before she us'd 
To her libidinous Skin to sacrifice ; 
Upon his sweeter Feet, she now diffus'd. 
Adding a shower from her own melting Eyes. 

Then vriping them with her late crisped Tresses. 

She offier'd there her consecrated Kisses. 

381. 

She minds not how spectators censure her ; 

Love 'j careless, and secure, and scorns the mean : 

She vows e'r from her Lover's Feet she stir. 

To oint, or wipe, or weep, or kiss them dean ; 
And by this amorous zeal she sanctifies 
Her Locks, her Lips, her Ointment and her Eyes. 

382. 

But as the sprigfatful flame disdains to be 
Confin'd below, and with undaunted pains 
Up to its lofty sphere contends : So she 
To her right gallant Passion gave the reins. 
And at Heav'n's highest Crest took aim ; for this 
I 'm sure, said she. the /fead 0/ Jesus is. 

383- 

A Box of Nard she had of mighty price. 
Yet not so precious as her peerless Lord: 
Could Earth's whole wealth meet in one sacrifice. 
All this, and more she would to Him afford : 

And now unbridled Love such haste did make. 

That strait the Box, or her own Heart must break. 

384. 
Indeed both brake ; and both she pour'd on 
His Head, who is of Sweets and Hearts the King, 
Forthwith through Heav'n and Earth the Odors run. 
Which shall for ever with their Praises ring : 
For now 'thas lost its Alabaster Cell, 
The famous Nard in all the World doth dwell. 

38s. 

And wheresoe'r Heav'n-breathing Trumpets sound 
The Gospel's sweet Alarms, the living Glory 
Of this Exploit shall certainly rebound 
Through every holy Ear : in his own Story 
Her Lord embroider'd her's ; and there we see 
None canonis'd a Saint by Him but She, 



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CANTO X. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY, 



209 



386. 
nJUreck'ning TkHft much grumbled at the Cost, 
Which many needy Mouths might weU have fed ; 
As if the Members had the largise lost. 
Which here bestowed was upon theh- Htad; 
Or any thing had been too much to give 
To Him from whom we every thing receive. 

387- 
But NcHenesis Lerdt and Masy's, who 
Thus in his Lovi to her excessive was, 
Vouchsafed her generous Soul free leave to go 
The same most princely and licentious pace : 
He knows the heat of this unweildy Passion, 
And will allow it brave Immoderation. 

388. 

The Law of Bounds all other eas'ly bear, 

Finding their objects are in limits ty'd ; 

But Leue alone with infinite career 

Still further everlastingly doth ride. 
Because let loose at God himself, hi whom 
ImmeMtify affords her boundless room. 

389. 
Thy easy Judgment now computes how dear 
Was this Serapfaick IVotnam to thy Lord; 
Well might her only Brother be, for her 
Sweet sake, to His love's tenderness prefer'd : 
Who Calling sick, she sent her sole Physitian 
The doleful News, join'd with her meek Petition. 

390- 
He, vrtio had never yet his Help delay'd 
When Need made Mary his Compassion wooe, 
nil Phekus twice the World had oompass'd, stay'd ; 
He sUy'd hideed, but 'twas that he might go 
With advantageous glory ; and his stay 
Might prove but ripened Lovt, and not Delay. 

391. 
Mean while his Weakness grew so strong upon 
Good LaMarus, that his Soul it chased out : 
^isust whose eyes through all things clearly ran. 
Shin'd on it as it went, and saw it brought 
On Angels' wings into the blessed Nest 
Of naked Peace and Quiet, Abraham's breast. 

392. 

Where when it gently was repos'd ; our Friend, 

Our LoMonts, is fall'n asleep, said He, 

But from that Fall to raise him I intend ; 

Come therefore, let 's away for Bethany. 
And Lord what needs it ; if he sleep, what harm 
Cry'd his Disciples^ can our friend alarm I 

393. 
None can, their Lord reply 'd, for now he lies 
Safe in the bosom of Serenity ; 

46 



Yet what his Rest is, little you surmise. 

Loth to believe true Sle^ in Death can be. 
Alas, the Grave 's the only quiet Bed 
In whk^ securely Rest can lay her head. 

394. 
Deaths Death *s the soundest Sleep, which makes amends 
For all this weary World's tempestuous Cares, 
And pious Souls into that Harbour sends 
Where never Dangers ride, nor Griefs, nor Fears. 

Our friend is dead : and glad I am that I 

Was not at hand to stop his Desthiy. 

395. 
Glad for your sakes, whose Faith now dead, shall by 
His Death revive. This said, he forward went, 
Yet reach'd not his designed Bethany 
Till two days more their Sun-bred lives had spent. 
He could have taken on the Wmd's fleet back 
His coach, but that his plot was to be slack. 

396. 
Yet busy Martha met him, as he drew 
Near to the Town, (for her solicitous ear 
Soon caught the frune of his approach, which flew 
Fairly before with fiill-mouth'd warning.) where 
She threw her self upon her knees, and cry'd, 
Hadst Thou been here, my Brother had not dy'd. 

397. 
Dear Lord of Life, hadst mighty Thou been here. 
Death would have his due distance Jcept. if not 
For love of Thee, or Us, at least for fear 
Of his own Life. And yet thy Power is but 

Deferred ; for well I know thy Gtwf will still 

Each syllable of thy Requests fulfil. 

398. 
Nor weep, nor doubt, sweet Martha, Jesus cry'd, 
Thy Brother shall again to life return. 
I doubt not, blessed Master, she reply'd. 
But in the ruin'd World's repairing Mom 

When all things live and ^ng afresh, that He 

Shall with his Body reinvested be. 

399- 
And why not now? fix>m Me alone, said He. 
Springs that great Spring : the Resurrection, and 
The Life thou thinkst for off, talks now with thee. 
Nor lies there any Pris'ner in the land 
Of Death, but if in Me he fizt his trust. 
Shall into life leap from his mortal Dust. 

400. 

Nay He who lives by steady Faith in Me 

His Life eternally secur'd shaU find. 

And never taste that Death's deep Agony 

Which never dies. Say Martha, can thy mind 
Digest this Flesh-amadng Problem, and 
By meek believing learn to understand ? 

2 D 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO X. 



401. 
Here dasell'd by his high Dlsoourse, great Lord 
She cry'd, my Faith adores Thee for no less 
Than Godi Almighfy Son, who in his Word 
Wert promised, this cuned World to bless. 
This said ; on Joyous Sonx>w's wings she flew 
And into Mary's ear the Tidings threw. 

402. 
As when the powerful Loadstone 's placed near, 
Th' inamored Iron leaps its Love to kiss : 
So Mary, hearing that her Lord was there, 
Posted to meet her dearest Happiness ; 
And falling at her highest throne, his feet. 
Did Martha's sad Complaint agaiD repeat. 

403. 
Short were her Words, but large her Tears and full, 
(Love-iavish'd Pleader's strongest Eloquence.) 
For in each Eye there dwelt a fertile well. 
Which by its ever-ready influence 
Confirm'd her Qutim of Weepers : ne'r was seen 
A more bedewed thing then MagdeUn. 

404. 

For Ijove, though valiant as the Lion's heart, 

Is yet as soft as mildest Turtles' Souls ; 

And mourns as deeply ; since no other art 

Knows how to slake the mighty flame which rouls 
About her bosom, and would bum her up 
Did not her streams of Tears that Torrent stop. 

405. 
If when the Clouds lament, the hardest Stone 
Under their frequent Tears relenteth : how 
Will Marys thicker showers prevail upon 
The Heart of softest Softiuss / Jesus now 
Could not but melt and yearn, and gently by 
His Groans his deep Compassion testify. 

406. 
Which Groans when they broke into a Demand 
Where Latarus was inter'd ; both Sisters by 
Turning their lamenuble faces, and 
Their Csinting hands, made Sadnesses Reply. 
At last their Tongues gat strength to cry : O come. 
See our Griefs Monument, and our Brother's Tomb. 

407. 

He thither stepping, deign'd to broach his Eyes, 

And vie with Mary's CumenU : whether in 

Pity of Man, whose &tal Miseries 

From none but his unhappy self began ; 
(For neither Gods nor Naturis hand, but He 
Digg'd his own grave by mad Impiety ; ) 

408. 
Or in kind grief his dearest friends to see 
Distrustful still of his Omnipotenoe ; 



Or meerly in complying Sympathy 
With their most piteous Tears* exuberanoe : 
Whate'r his reason were, He showred down 
Those streams for Man's sole sake, not for his own. 

409. 
O Tears! bow precious are your beads, since He 
Who is the Gem ofkemfn hath brought you forth ! 
Now you may worthy of GodCs bottles tte. 
Who from Gods radiant Eyes derive your Worth : 

All holy Drops which are of kin to you, 

By that Af&nity must glorious grow. 

410. 

\ax flinty Bosoms build their foolish Pride 

On their own Hardness, and the We^ng Eye 

As childish and effeminate deride. 

And too too soft to suit the Bravery 
Of masculine Spirits : yet truly-noble Hearts 
With Jesus will not soom to Weep their parts. 

41 L 
But from the Tomb He now commands the Stone 
Which there had sealed Lasarus's Body up : 
When lo an harder Marble fisUing on 
Poor Martha's heart, her Faith began to stop ; 
Corrupted was her Mind, which made her think 
And talk so much of/wr Days, and the stinh. 

412. 

What 's/our poor Days, that their weak intervention 

Should able be to raise a scruple here. 

And intercept His sovereign Intention 

To whom Eternity submits? A year. 
An Age, a World, can be no stop to Him 
On whose sole Will depends the life of Time. 

413. 
Stinhs and Corruptions no Retardments are 
To His productive Power, who derives 
Through Putrifaction' s pipes, and kindles there 
The life his Love to all his Creatures gives. 

For by his Law, which brooks no Violation. 

Corruption Mother is to Generation. 

414. 
The stone removed, and their Cave laid ope, 
Jesus, of Life and Death the mighty King. 
With awful Majesty first lifted up 
His hand, and then his Voice, whose thunder rung 
In these sublime imperious Words, which Earth 
^ And Heav'n obeyed, Lazarus come forth. 

415. 

Imperious Words indeed ; which reach'd and rons'd 

The Soul imbosomed in Abraham's Bay ; 

From whence as in exultant haste it loos'd. 

The complements! Patriarch, they say. 
Three Kisses gave it. and intreated it 
To bear those Tokens unto Jesu's feet. 



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CANTO X. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTBRY^ 



211 



V 



416. 
But at the trembling Cave arriv'd, it found 
What there those fote-controlling Words had done ; 
Shatter'd and scatter'd all about the ground 
Lay adamantine Chains which Death had on 
The Carcasse heap'd ; broke was that Cloud of Lead 
Which roll'd cold Night about the Eyes and Head. 

417. 

Away the frighted Worms scnunbled amain ; 

CorrufHoH hied her self into a hole, 

To sneak aside pale Gkastlyntss was fain ; 

Stark frosen Stiffness felt its thaw, and stole 
Far from the Corps ; Death sate lamenting by 
To see that what he slew, now must not die. 

418. 
Heat, Vigor, Motion, hover'd round about, 
Attending when the Soul her place would take : 
And she, as quick 's her own most sudden Thought 
Flew strait into the Heart, and there awoke 
The sleeping Blood : When lo, whilst yet the sound 
Of Jesus Voice did in the Tomb rebound, 

419. 

Out Latarus leaps : O what Amazement now 
On all Spectators seiz'd 1 they start, they stare, 
They gape, they doubt, they hope, they fear, they throw 
Their arms wide open, and divided are 
'Twizt wondering at LauaruSt and at Him 
Whose Word Mortality's strong tide could stem. 

420. 
Out Lazarus leaps, though snarl'd &8t and ty'd 
Up in his ftmeral cloths : for why should he 
Be by these slender ligaments deny'd 
Free passage, whom the stout Conspiracy 

Of all Deaths massy chains could not compel 

A pris'ner in his sepulchre to dwell ! 

421. 
Out Latarus leaps ; and full as fresh and fair 
As summer flowers spring from their winter bed. 
Which at their rising, through the purest air 
A daintier gale of fragrant Odours shed : 
Nice jealous Martha needs not doubt but he 
Is now as wbolesom and as sweet as she. 



422. 
But wonder not why Jesus back would call 
His Friend who lay oompos'd in rest and peace. 
To this tumultuous World, which seems to all 
Heav'n-aiming Saints the sink of Wretchedness ; 
Whence, till by frdling to their graves they rise, 
They count their Death lives, and their Life but dies. 

423. 

For seeing now Himself was breathing here. 

His Breath perfum'd the Earth with heav'nly Bliss ; 

His face was Rests and Pleasure's fairest sphere ; 

Mustek, his Words ; his Presence, Paradise, 
And where soe'r he is, his friends he warms 
With dearer Joys and Peace than Abraham's arms. 

424. 
Alas 'twas Abraham's proudest Wish, that he 
Might see, what Lazarus freely now beheld. 
Him, and his Wonders, whose Benignity 
AU faithfril Souls with Satisfaction fill'd ; 

Who to his Foes his tender favour spread ; 

With health reUev'd the sick ; with life the Dead. 

425. 
Such, Psyche^ were those Arts and Acts, whereby 
Thy Savior to his World himself indear'd ; 
But in so vast a multiplicity 
That were they all distinctly register'd. 

That World's whole bounds would not sufficient be 

To find those only Books a Library. 

426. 

And what meant these miraculous Dispensations 

But his Affection to proclaim intire? 

No royal Suter by such Demonstrations 

E'r sealed to his Queen his true Desire ; 
As here the Prince ofkeavn display'd, to prove 
How with all Human Souls be was in love. 

427. 
Here Phylax clos'd his ruby lips ; and She 
Who all this while upon his tongue attended 
Both with her ears and heart, was griev'd to see 
His high and sweet Discourse so quickly ended : 
Yet glad for what sh' had heard, her Modesty 
Paid him her maiden thanks upon her knee. 



NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Stann 41, 'plotted* = planned. St 63, ' stMf * = obstacle or 
^ea for delay. St. 80, ' Butt ' = target or mark for arrow, etc 
St. 146U ' traluced ' = tralucent or translucent . St 151, 
'a^<^*=: affianced. St 170, * Port Latittj* i.e. at Rome. 
St 179, 'aMwtrA' = a-flowing. St 905, * Convives:' also st 
ai z = fellow-feasters. St 219, ' obnoxious ' = exposed. St 
974* ' EjulatioH ' = waii, lament St a8x, * ca$Ut ' = forms 
into cantons, as Switzerland. St 3x0^ *jact ' = act, deed. 
St. 315, ' Tabor.* 1 for one am unconvinced that Hennon— 
a Ions mountain-range— and not Tabor was scene of the 
Transnguration. In ascending and exploring Tabor— within 



an easy walk of Nazareth— I found solitudes and retire- 
ments sufficient for the holy incident So that Robinson's 
objection of ancient forti^tions on the summit seems the 
most cpituitous imaginable. It is nowhere said the Trans- 
fig[uretaon took place on the summit Yon cannot posably 
thmk, after seeing and riding alon^ Hermon from Oesarea- 
Philippi onvrard, that it could !be designated ' a mountain.' St 
3*7, * course' — course St 338, ' /Artw/4W * = devotees. St 
381, *oiMt' = anoint St 395, 'piet* = plan. St 413, * derives* 
as communicates. 

G. 



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CANTO XL 
The Traitor. 



The ARGUMENT. 

/« sordid Lov€ oftkitk and rusting Clay, 
Prodigious yi<dM% LOVB kimstl/dotk stU: 
But/or his pains, besides tie Highpriest's Pay, 
Receives a dreadJM Sallary ^HeU, 

Wkick met kirn ufon earth, and from kisjoul 
And splitting body tore his wounded SouU 



ENVT, thou rankling Bane of Quietness, 
And of thy Self; what makes thy Rage so Mad 
To play the Canker in all kind of BUss, 
And on thine own Vexation live 1 A Rod 
To thine own wretched back, most peevish Elf 
No less than to the World's, thou mak'st thy self. 

2. 
All other Monsters are content to spare 
Themselves, and only feast upon their Prey : 
But whensoe'r thy Prises &ttest are. 
Thou pinest most ; and find'st a cursed way 
Strangely to fast in riot, and to grow 
Leanest when Plenty's streams about thee flow. 



In thy mischievous womb was Discord bred, 

The correspondent Bret of such a Dame ; 

A Brook which well becomes its Fountain head. 

And can with equal genuine poison stream ; 
A Brook which round about the tainted World 
Its aims pernicious Embrace hath hurl'd. 



This is that fatal and destructive Jar 
Which firets and interrupts the Harmony 
Wherein all diflerent Things ooncenter'd were 
By peaceful Nature's sweet and sacred Ty : 
That Tar which in Time's nonage belk'd and beat 
So high, that ope to l^ar the way it set. 



To IVar, that foulest fiercest Sum of all 
The worst of Hell : iiell Beltebub at first 



Begot the Monster of his own proud Gall, 
FVom whence in Heav'n unhappily it burst : 

A Birth-place how unfit for such a Birth ! 

And well it was that Heav'n strait cast it forth. 



Heav'n cast it forth : but Hell recdv'd the Brat, 
And hug'd it dose, and nurst, and kept it warm ; 
Fed there with fire and blood, it soon grew fat 
And strong enough to raise a desperate storm 
In his black Nursury, whose rampant Revels 
In wild confusion tumbled all the Devils. 



When Satan saw his mad Activity, 
With hellish Joy he kiss'd his genuine Son ; 
And as he kick'd his Father's Courtesy, 
And scratch'd his kissing lips ; this Sign atone 
Dear Child, cry'd He, sufficient is to prove 
Thou art my Issue, and deserv'st my love. 

8. 
Then fi^om his own viperous Tresses He 
Pluck'd three large handfuls of his longest Snakes, 
Of which, with pois'nous Uberslity, 
A fiivour for his darling Child he makes ; 

Who ever since in fiightfiil triumph wears 

The hissing Discord all about his < 



He thus adom'd without, and stor'd within 

With sutabk desires : a fiill Commission 

Sole General to be of every Sin, 

Of all Confusion, and of all Perdition 
His Father grante him ; and then sends him forth 
To try what ruins he could work on Earth. 

la 
(The cunning Serpent lov'd his Hole too well 
To suffer desperate (Tor to harbour there 
He knew that ev'n in his own Realm of Hell 
Division would the joints and cement tear. 
Which in obedience to his sovereign Pride 
The Peers and Commons of Damnation ty'd.) 



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CANTO XI. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



213 



II. 

As through the bowels of deep TeUus He 

Rent ope his way, amased Naturt shook, 

Affrighted Quigt and Strtniiy 

Their ardent flight to Heav'n for shelter took ; 
Leairing behind an universal Groan : 
Through all the World such £atal Terror ran. 

12. 
But bhistering on the Fury sought where he 
Might entertainment for his Mischief meet. 
First to the Lyons* Dens he rush'd, to see 
Whether their mighty Mouths, and armed feet 
Miglit not be taught to manage with delight 
The endless Quarrel of iniestim Spigkt, 

13. 
Big things he spoke, and highly magnify'd 
The sweets of Licence and unbounded Will; 
The gallant triumphs of that venturous Pride 
Which scorning all the sheepish pleas of chill 
And timorous Tenderness, upon the head 
Of Nature's strictest Laws could freely tread. 

14. 
The royal Beasts with generous disdain 
Look'd on the Monster, and lay couchant still, 
Wisely resoWd Themselvs to hold the chain 
Of their own Strength ; and, when they pleas'd to fill 
Their Lust with Bk>od, to hunt it up and down 
The Woods, but never riot in their own. 

IS. 
Repulsed here ; He made the like Address 
To Dragons, Tigres, Panthers, Wolves, and Bears : 
But they still hug'd their natural Friendlyness 
Seahng against his charms their honest ears. 
The Monster vex'd, and tore himself, to see 
That wildest Creatures would not disagree. 

16. 
Then Eagles, Vultures, Harpyes, and the brood 
Of every cruel-beak'd fierce-tallon'd Bird 
To mutual Salvagenesses' trade he woo'd : 
But sober they their warey wings bestir'd, 
And flying fitxn his bart)arous Advice 
Traffick'd for Prey among their Enemies. 

17. 
At last to Man be came : and who coiiUd dream 
That sweetly-temper'd He, the only Thing 
Which Heav'n's peculiar Hand vouchafd to frame ; 
He who could fight for nothing, being King 

Of all this worid ; He who unarm'd was made ; 

Should turn Apprentice to the WarUke Trade f 

18. 
Yet MaUt the Riddle of all Monstrousness, 
To this wild Monster desperate welcome gave : 



Mad Man, for whom a thousand Maladies 

PerpetTially were digging ope his grave. 
Would needs go learn a surer speedyer way 
To cut that life which posteth to Decay. 

19. 

For Cain (th* original Curse's firstborn Heir,) 

No sooner saw the Fur^s looks, but he 

More ameable iiancy'd them and fair, 

Then gentle AM*s blessed Suavity. 
Ah wretched Fancy, whose blind Violence 
Murder'd a Quarter of the World at once I 

20. 
Yea more than so : for that inhumane Wound 
Which m his Brotha^s Body sunk so deep, 
Did on himself more fJEitally rebound, 
And in his Soul the cursed Weapon steep : 
Such is his self-revenging GuOt, that Cain 
The living Murderer 's more than Abel slain. 

21. 
Yet could that dreadful Marks all-warning sight, 
Which seal'd his Crime on his despairing face, 
Fh)m venturing in his bloody steps not fright 
Succeeding Generations ; still they trace 
The guilty Tract, regardless of the Cries 
With which Blood wakens Vengeance and the Skies. 

22. 
With unrelenting Steel they barbarise 
Thefr tender Flesh, and cloth their skin with Brass ; 
They for Destruction proper Tools devise 
To hasten on the frue oi fading Grass; 
To Time's not lazy Sithe they join their arts 
Of Death, Spears, Arrows, Daggers, Swords, and 
Darts. 

23. 
And loth that any dull Delay should make 
Them loose the credit of their Madness, They 
Trust not their own two feet, but mount the back 
Of fiery Quadrupeds ; with cruel joy 
Flying to salvageness in full carreer. 
And triumphing their brethren's hearts to tear. 

24. 
Yea though the Vengeance of that Deluge, which 
Washed away that bloody Torrent, and 
Those who rejoic'd to quaff it ; well might teach 
Poor Man how needless 'twas to arm bis hand 
Against himself: He still resolv'd no Flood 
Of Water should confute his Thirst 0/ Blood. 

25. 
O no 1 He more industrious daily grows 
In butchering Wrath, and with it tahitt the heart 
Of gentle Learning, which his cunning draws 
In all his bloodyest Plots to act its part 
Hence came those Engins which so strangely spit 
Death's multiply'd and deadlyer made by Wit. 



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214 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



CANTO XI. 



26. 

Yea these, as Ragt's Lameness He disdains, 

Angry to see that Heav'n's Artfllery flies 

Swifter than his : this made him bend his brains 

To shoot his fury like th' incensed Skies : 
Thus from his Canon's mouths the Thunders roar, 
The Lightnings flash, smoke, Bullets, Vengeance pour. 

27. 
No snaky Fetnds with more remorseless spigfat 
Rend one another's breasts, than Man doth Man's : 
Wounds, Shrieks and Gaspings are his proud Delight ; 
And he by Helllshness his Prowess scans : 
In humane Blood he strives to write his stories. 
And by his Murders oounteth up his Glories. 

28. 
Thus milde Humanity aside is thrown. 
And Manhood takes from War its ominous Name. 
Alas 1 and was not genuine Manhood known 
Till Pride and Spight disjointed Nature's frame ; 
Till Beasts upbraided Man^ who entertain'd 
That horrid Monster which all They disdain'd ? 

29. 
Were there not lusty Sins, whose sturdy might 
Sufficient fuel could afford to feed 
The boldest valour of the bravest Wight ; 
And with a fairer Laurel court his Head. 

Than those unhappy wreaths which smeared are 

Thick in the gore of an unnatural war. 

30. 

Had not each Breast their enemies at home. 

With which no truce could honorable be ? 

Was any Heart of Man secured from 

The headstrong Passion's dangerous mutiny? 
There, there that Field was to be pitch'd, wherein 
True Virtue might the noblest Prizes win. 

31. 

But ah I that blessed Combat is forgot 

In this wild heat of fighting : Licence here 

Commands in chief, and from its Quarters shut 

Law, Property, and sober Order are : 
In whose fair rooms the foul Troops listed be 
Of rampant Rage, Rapa, Rapines, Luxury. 

32. 
For when this more than brutish General once 
In lawless gulfs himself had plunged, he 
Prints on his mad adventure's exigence. 
The specious title of Necessity : 

To which he blushes not to count the Law. 

Whether of Earth or Heav'n oblig'd to bow. 

33. 
Shame on their Souls, who love this Trade o/Hate 
At others, and their own destruction's price, 



From their own bosoms quite erasing what 
Might prove them Men* But their impieties 

Swell highest, who the Name of Christian wear. 

Yet stain it in the bkxxl of causeless War. 

34. 
Impudent Boldness ! which can to advance 
Most meeh Religion, put on Barbarousness, 
And make the Bond o/Swmhuss their pretence. 
To break all other yoaks ; which dares profess 
In figfatt to rescue that, whose highest piaise 
Injurious sufTrings always us'd to raise. 

35. 
Which garrisons the Pulpits first, and makes 
The venal Tongues of roaring Preachers set 
The Trumpeu their alarming Tune : whkh seeks 
To plunder Consciences, and to defeat 
Unarmed Souls, before its faulchions hack 
Their Bodies, or their Goods ite paws attack. 

36. 
Which hi despigfat of God wiU take his part. 
And war for Heav*n, against Heav'n's flat Command : 
Which with a Brazen-face, and harder Heart 
Under the Cross's Banner marches, and 
Makes Patience's noblest Trophy over 
Th* unruly head of bloody Fury hover. 

37. 
Which to maintain the Church, her maintenance 
Grasps and devours : which licenseth the Ploch 
To tear the Shepherds : which in Truth's defence 
Imprison her, and to complete the Mock, 
Breaks open Hell, and lets loose thousands fries 
Of giddy Schisms, and frantick Heresies. 

38. 

Which, if defeated, by an hardy Lye, 

Recruiu its credit, and before the fiice 

Of scofied Heav'n in proud solenmity. 

Enacts Thanhsgivings : which aocounteth Peace 
Its most assured ruin ; and no snares 
Like those of honest sober Treaties fears. 

39- 
The gk>rious Army of those Martyrs, who 
To Heav'n in Trimn^'s Chariot ascended. 
And never learn' d Christ and Religion so ; 
Both which they by a surer way defended. 
Drowning all oppositloa in the flood. 
Not of their foes, but of their own brave Blood. 

40. 
Nor did Heav'n's most propictous bottles e'er 
Distil more fertile showers on thirsty Earth ; 
Than streamed fitxn those Heros' veins, to cheer 
The new-«own Churches' Seeds, and help them forth 
Into that sudden goodly Crop, which swell'd 
So high, that all the wondering Worid it fiU'd. 



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215 



41. 
Can others' Blood their tincture be, who are 
Sworn servants to the King ofswteUst Peace t 
That JCing who deign'd to be a Lamb, and wear 
Of Ttndemsss the white and dainty fleece ? 

That King whose business, and whose dearest joy 

It is to save, but never to destroy, 

42. 
That King, who to this World forbore to stoop. 
Till every sword retum'd unto its sheath ; 
Till Quiei sealed Janufs Temple up ; 
Till Nahare was restored to kad on Death ; 

nil Peace*! calm had pav'd his passage plain, 

And Men repented into Men again. 

43. 
Yet being come ; though Satan could not raise 
An open tempest to disturb him, he 
Contrives a thousand secret envious ways. 
Patching his want of force with subtilty : 
He lends fresh malice to the peevish Jews, 
And in the High-priesfs Head his projects brews. 

44. 
Annas and Caiapkas conspire to try 
How their popular Glories may protect. 
Which daily they beheld eclipsed by 
The splendor which the Name of Jesus deckt ; 
Upon whose flames, if nothing else will do. 
Rather than fail, his Blood they plot to throw. 

45. 
And Pkylax, through this Story's tract thought fit 
Psyche's attention to lead ; for He 
After their short reposement, bids her sit 
Steady and fast : and yielding then the firee 
And long-desired reins to 's fervid Steeds, 
Quick as the wind to SaUmmard he speeds. 

46. 

There, over Sicn's head he plucked back 
"Hie bridle ; strait his docile Coursers knew 
The language of his hand, an 'gan to slack 
Their pace, and in a semicircle flew ; 
For by one wing they the other fought, 
And damp'd their course by wheeling thus about. 

47. 
Then lighting on the Hill, their mains they shaked. 
And lifting high their heads, toss'd up their voice : 
The bottoms at their mighty neighings quaked. 
And from their caves flung back the doubled noise : 
Tin Phylax spake ; when with fair manners they 
Humbled fhdr awed crests, and ceas'd to neigh. 

48. 
Though to this World thy Lord himself, said he, 
So much indear'd by those sweet Miracles, 



A taste of which I have presented thee : 

Yet so importunately loud was Hell's 
Invidious clamor in the High-priests ear, 
As all Heav'n's words and works to overbear. 

49. 
And now the thicker Wonders Jesus does, 
More Articles against himself he draws : 
The shameless Judges turn his vowed foes, 
Foigetting Rights, and urging Envy's Laws : 

And in blach Envy's impudent esteem. 

No crime so foul as Piety doth seem, 

SO. 
But how this Malice brought about her end, 
And rais'd her self to that transcendent pitch 
Of Monstrousness, which never any Fiend 
With Hell's most scmed wit before could reach ; 

Deserves thy Ear and Hate : and forth will I 

The venom pump of that rank History. 

51. 
Near Erebus*s yawning mouth a cave there is, 
(The little Emblem of that greater Realm,) 
The native house and home of Avarice, 
Who though her craving thoughts quite overwhelm 

The Universe, yet whatsoe'r she gains, 

As lean and hungry as before remains. 

52. 

If ought but Money there for entrance call, 

The door is deaf ; for its bewitched ears 

No noise, no musick apprehend at all 

But Moneys chink : which it no sooner hears. 
But ope it flings its mouth as Dost and wide, 
As Tigers when their prey they welcome bid. 

53- 
Six yellow springs before the threshold rise, 
Infected by that House's Neighborhood ; 
Which stealing far, through Earth's close cavities, 
Disgoige their splendidly-contagious flood 
On this condemned World, devouring here 
More than m stormy Seas e'er swallow'd were. 

54. 

Indus and Ganges range about the East ; 

Pactolus taints the middle of the Earth ; 

But Tagus undertakes to cheat the West, 

And spews in Spain his glistering poison forth ; 
The North is Hebrus's charge, and treacherous he 
Breaks ope his way through Thracian Rkodope. 

55. 
Plate slips into the further World, to put 
To pains and cost adventurous Covetousness : 
Who, when her thirst is grown maturely hot. 
Will scorn th' Atlantich Ocean's fright, and press 
Through unknown Monsters, hunting out that stream 
Which shall not quench but more image her flame. 



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CANTO XI. 



56. 
For thow dire dnughts of barninf sulpbnre, that 
Fry all the throau of erar-bowUng HeU, 
As toon may oool, and qnite confute the hot 
Pleat of their fafioas drought ; as any Well, 

Or Stream, or Sea of wealth can sUdce the Fire. 

Whidi feigns in her ansatisfy'd desire. 

57. 

The structure of the House is plahi and poor. 

And calls with many a mouth for reparation : 

No Cloods can weep that way, but needs must pour. 

Through every rotten room an inundation : 
In at their pleasure whistling come the winds. 
And here a ready Inn all weather finds. 

58. 

A thousand stilu and props their shoulders set 
To aid the walls ; where many a wisp and rag 
Into the weather-beaten wounds are put : 
Such is the thriA of that old carking Hag, 
Her House's fidl she ventures, but to spare 
The simple cost ev'n of a patch'd repair. 

59. 
Within, vast mouldy Trunks and Hutches sund, 
Pil'd to the roof on one another's backs, 
Guarded with massy hoops of iron, and 
Warily fortify'd with triple locks : 

As if Indeed some Tteisures* shrines they were. 

When only yellow CUy lies sleeping there. 

6a 

There lay that golden Mount the Lydian Prince 
Had raised by his numerous ketones : 
Unhappy Crmsus I who at such ezpence 
Of pains and time, obtain'd so sad a prise, 
Which prov'd his Life's sad load, and lower prest 
Him than his grave, when Death did him arrest. 

61. 

There lay the Phrygian MtmarcfCs coined God. 

Whose golden Wish made all his Riches poor ; 

Whose privilege was to want ev'n what he had, 

And famish'd be amidst his growing store : 
Sure for that Wish he more deserv'd those Bars 
Which by the Poet's quaint revenge he wears. 

62. 
There heaped lay his useless Talents, who 
By Pagan's verdict is condemn'd to thb^t. 
Whilst mocking Currents round about him flow. 
Ah Tantalus t how crosly wert thou curst 
In Life with Treasures which thou couldst not use, 
In Death with Dainties which thy mouth abuse I 

There Uy the Purse of stem CallicraUs, 
Who us'd Exaction's iron hand to rake 



Up gokl. and make th* Atkmian miseries 
Swdl eqmlly with his huge wealth ; who brake 
The Laws hi lawless urging them, that he 
Owner of what he ooold not keep might be. 

64. 

The stuffed Coflers of rich Cinyras, 
The prisons of his Cyprian Plenty, there 
Congested were hi mighty throngs : the Mass 
Of Gyga's glittering joys, which fiur and near 
Wonder and envy rais'd, lay next to them. 
But aU abashed now with rusty shame. 

65. 

The teemfaig Bags, which PtUps brooded o'r ; 

The wealth which Crassms upon heaps had heap'd ; 

Darims's brave inestimable store. 

There in their sepulchres of darkness sleep'd : 
So did great Pharaoh's, hito whose vast bam, 
A crop of Gold was brought for that of Com. 

66. 
Whatever Rapine, Fraud, Oppression, Lies, 
Distrustful Greedhiess, vezatkius Care, 
Had snatch'd, stole, poU'd, or scraped, to suffice 
What could not filled be, was crowded there. 
Men Uttle think that aU such Rkhes win 
Go home at last, and with then- Piwtms dwell 

67. 
Nay, there that proud Accumulation lay 
Which dares call every other Treasures poor : 
That wealth which did the GoUem Agt display. 
When Solomon the Crown of /snul wore ; 
Who such disgrace on silver pour'd, that it 
Like vulgar stones was Uck'd about the street. 

68. 
IVise as he was, that iTing well understood 
That with those huge ador'd Vaeuiiies, 
Whidi puff the Worid up with their frothy flood, 
Ev'n massy Gold must counted be ; which flies 
Away on wings more swift than any thing 
That Fortune rolls in Vanity's fine Ring. 

69. 

He understood how Men's fond estimation 
GUds that by which they gild aU things beside ; 
How in the Coach of their own admiration. 
They make paU Earth in glorious triumph ride ; 

For though their poring sight be weak and gross. 

His eye dtsoem'd that Gold it self is dross, 

70. 

Alas, as here in all its strength it lay 

Immur'd in thousand Chests, it could not by 

Its power, or its value keep away 

iGruginous Cankers, which eternally 
Both dwell and feed upon it ; nor could all 
Those mighty lx>cks forbid their Festival 



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217 



71. 

But howling round about the woful room, 
Ran those unhappy Souls^ whose thirst of Gold 
Had plong'd them in this everlasting Doom : 
Simls^ which to their own Bags themselves had sold. 
And bought their Prison ; from whose misery 
Their useless wealth could no Redemption buy. 

72. 

His mystick Wand there wrinkled Balaam crack'd. 

And flung his wretched Charms about the floor ; 

Cursing the day when he to Balak pack'd 

In sordid love of vile-bred Mony more 
Than Truth and Heav'n ; and crying oft, Alas, 
Who was the Witzard then, and who ike Ass I 

73. 
There guilty Achan roar'd, himself to see 
So gorgeous in his Babylonish Cloak ; 
Besides, to make him rich in misery, 
Deep in his heart his Goldem Wedge was stuck : 

And his two hundred silver Skekels fast 

About his feet were into fetters cast. 

74. 
There cursed Ahab with Soul-gnawing fright, 
Thought NdboiKs Gkost came flashing in his £ace ; 
Whose guiltless Blood quite quenched that delight 
With which the Vine's should have inflam'd his glass : 
For all the stones which Calumny had thrown 
On NabotKs head, he felt upon his own. 

75- 
Gekagy there, as white with Leprosy 
As guilt had dy'd him odious and black. 
His double Ckange of Garments hates ; which he 
Can for his noisome sores no cover make ; 
And still he starts, -and thinks his Master's eye 
Doth him and his two Syrian Talents spy. 



There Dives rends his Purple, and away 
Kicks his now bitterly-delicious Feasts : 
His Envy snarleth at his Dogs, since they 
Less dogged were than He to needy Guests ; 
Whose boils they kindly kiss'd and lick'd. whilst He 
With cruel railings griev'd their misery. 

There Demas curses all the World, with which 

Hb Gold-hemXchtd Soul in love did fall ; 

Lamenting his vain plot of growing rich. 

By flowing from the Poverty of Paul; 
That glorious Poverty which to the fair 
Treasures of Heav'n was now the granted heir. 

78. 

This ugly Room the decent Portal was 
Into the Temple miserably builded 



46 



Of equal vileness : yet with lofty grace 

Its ruinous Roof was screwed up, and yielded 

Full space for Majesty to stand upright. 

And let the God appear in his own height 

79. 
Hast thou not heard how. when on Dnra's Plain 
Nekuckadnezxar's Oven's hot mouth did gape 
For those who fear'd Hell's furnace, and the stain 
Of foul Idolatry ; proud He in deep 

Disdain of Heav'n, rear'd sixty cubits high 

The Mountain of his Golden Deity f 

80. 

The Copy of that Idol hence he took. 

And still th' Original in this Temple stands ; 

Such is the massy Head and such the Look, 

Such arc the Legs, the Breast, the Arms, the Hands ; 

Such is its monstrous Bulk, and such the Beams. 

With which its pure and bumish'd metal flames. 

81. 
His Name is Mammon ; and although he be 
So dead a Lump, that aid he cannot lend 
To 's heavy self ; yet to [t)his Deity 
The most of living mortab couch and bend : 

Hecn/n's King with aU his powers of Love and Bliss. 

Of works on humane hearts with less success. 

82. 

Both those who see, and those who want their eyes 

Are by his splendor equally invited ; 

For both alike are blind, when once they prize 

His worthless worth, and feel their Souls delighted 
With contemplation of inchanting Money : 
Their fond thirst's Milk, their foolish hunger's Honey. 

83- 

Thrift, that most slander'd thing, pretended is 

By every Sex and every Tribe of Men ; 

Who spare no pains to spare; who weigh their Bliss 

In Gold's folse scales ; who gain not what they win ; 
Who fretted by th' immediate itch 
Of heaping riches, ne'r think they are rich. 

84. 

Some Young, and Poor ; most Old. and Wealthy, at 
The Idots footstool reverently lay : 
Active and stout was their Devotion's heat. 
Disdaining any respit night or day ; 

And mortifying with hard penance what 

Soever Mammon's Laws allowed not. 

85. 

Where'r He sent them, to the East or West, 

The North or South ; no War of Heat or Cold, 

Of Seas or Tempests, ever could resist 

Their venturous March, or make too dear their Gold : 

Nor could Earth's mass their hardy pains repel ; 

Through Mountains they would dive, and dig to Hell. 

2 E 



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CANTO XI. 



86. 
Thick at his shadowed feet there grew a Crop 
Of every villany which tainU this Earth ; 
Fruits which those fond Dwotos gather'd up 
As fast's the pois'ned roots could bring them forth : 

The Goldtn CriwUs Prerogative is such. 

That it in other sins is always rich. 

87. 

In other sins, and in the righteous Curse 

Which by wise Vemgeanct is eternally 

Ty'd to the strings of th' avaricious Purse ; 

For still those Connoruits are tortured by 
Vexatious cares and fears of Want the more : 
They are incumbred with their growing SUnrt. 



That Stort^ which with such tyrannising aw 
In endless bondage holds their Souls, that they, 
Though on their Lips their golden Torrents flow. 
Yet durst not with one drop their thirst allay ; 
But choose to antidate their Hell, and learn 
Betimes in everlasting Drought to bum. 

89. 

llie Pritst, whose service waits upon this Shrine, 
Is full as ugly as the Idols fair : 
The raving wallowing Afanadts, would fine 
Spruce courtly Ladies seem oompar'd with Her ; 

So would the rankest Witch that ever yet 

Disfigur'd was in any Magick fit. 

90. 
Age bends her downward to that Earth in which 
To delve and grope, is her profound delight : 
As are the backs of bunched Camels, such 
Is Her's, and sutes as well with any weight ; 

All load is light to Her, if but a grain 

Of intermixed Profit it contain. 

9'- 
Her face all over's plowed up with Care, 
And gastly deep the wretched furrows be : 
Her hollow Eyes quite damp'd. and dazell'd are 
By glaring on her glistering Deity: 
Her sallow Looks, and shriveU'd parched Skin 
Confess what pains she takes about her Sin. 

92. 
Her Nails she never cut, but let them grow 
Up with her Wealth, since Scra^ngyttA her Trade : 
No greedy Vultures could such Tallons show. 
And with such hungry hooks no Harpys prey'd : 
For with these Engines she was wont to break 
Mine's bowels open, and the Center rake. 

93. 
A putrid Mantle round her stinking Waste 
Was all the Robes she would her self aUow. 



Which she had found upon a dunghil cast 
A thousand years before ; and which was now 
Nine hundred tiroes repatch'd : so deeply did 
Her Soul the charges of a new one dread. 

94. 
Seven stuffed Pouches on a leathern thong 
Crouded about her miserable Loins ; 
With these, of massy Keyes two bunches hung, 
, The Memorandums of her Trcasur'd Mines : 

Which Keyes she twenty times a day would tell. 
And count what sums did in their keeping dwell. 

95. 
Though thousand tongues with righteous indignation 
Pour'd shames and curses on her sordid Head, 
She scom'd to blush, or from her self>vexation 
Release her anxious Soul ; for still she fed 
Her Thoughts with hopes of more and more, and still 
Went on. what never bottom had, to fill. 

Pairocies was to Her a generous Knight, 
And made his Board fax lavishness's scene : 
When she with Dainties would her Taste delight. 
Some rotten Root her Banquet was ; and when 
Her fare she ventur'd highliest to enlarge. 
She'd be in salt at half a farthing's charge. 

97. 
But planted deep she carried in her Breast 
The horrid Root of all her monstrous cares, 
Blind In/delity; by which she cast 
About how to withstand what her own fears 
Made terrible ; and built her trust upon 
No Power or Providence, but her own alone. 

98. 

Besides, th' Ideas of her Gold, which ky 

Pfl'd there in cursed Mountains, rusty grew ; 

This Rust, its dwelling tum'd into its prey. 

And on her Heart with restless gnawing flew : 
Yet was her Idol to that Heart so dear. 
That for more Money she more Rust would bear. 

99. 

This Hag was Avarice : whom Satan's Soul 

Lov'd near as much as he thy Spouu did hate. 

On her might's Axel he presum'd to roul 

His final hopes of compassing his great 
Design of Malice ; knowing wdl that she 
Much more vdth Men could do, than Heav'n or He. 

loa 

To her vile Grot himself in person came ; 

Where with all condescent of courtesy, 

Wiping aside the sulphur and the flame, 

Which flash 'd about his royal Count' nance, He 
Saluted her. who never had the Bliss 
Obtain'd till now of her grand Sovereign's Kiss. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY, 



219 



lOI. 

This favour ravish'd her so deep, that She 
The Task he set her triumph'd to receive : 
First taking her Commission on her knee, 
(Which thrice she kiss'd) and then her hasty leave. 

To earth she posts, and findeth there a Cell 

Almost as hellish as her native helL 

103. 

For to Ixariofs breast her way she snatch 'd 
Which foolish he left ope without a guard : 
With al her venom in she rush'd, and pitch'd 
Down in the bottom of his heart : full hard 
It was e'r she intruded there ; but now 
No marble could such proofs of Stiffness show. 

103. 
Those Words of potent Sweetness which did drop 
From Jtsu*s blessed lips, could Winds, and Seas. 
And Sicknesses, and Devils bridle up. 
And any Storms but Judas his appease. 
Alas, that Man should that sole Monster be 
Which is too hard for Mercys Suavity/ 

104. 
As he who boiling Lead hath swallow'd down. 
As violently bums as it ; and though 
A thousand Seas into his cup were thrown, 
They could not quench his drought : so JutUu now 
Feels his impois'ned belking bosom fry 
In covetous Thirsts impatient ardency. 

105. 
Millions of thoughts run raging through his breast. 
And every one of these is all on fire : 
He scorns and hales the Poverty of Christ; 
No Bliss but Money lureth his desire : 

Talk not to him of penniless Piety ; 

Whate'r it cost, he must have Coin, or die. 

106. 
Ah strange Resolve 1 as if Life's Soul were Coin, 
Which only paves the way, to flattering Death. 
Fond Wretch I who liv'd whilst he did poor remain. 
But when for sinful Wealth he trafficks, both 
His Money and his Life that Trading cost him, 
And every thing but mere Perdition lost him. 

107. 
Yet was this Poison not enough to swell 
His heart : another Joyned in the Plot : 
Deep in the nasty sink, of lowest Hell 
Is situate a dismal gloomy Grot ; 

A Grot which there in ambush seems to lie 

Hatching the egs of all Conspiracy. 

108. 
And yet within a goodly House was built. 
As for the Palace of some virgin Queen : 



With quaint Designs the frontispice was gilt ; 
The total Fabrick smil'd like Beautie's Scene ; 

Through all the Walls white vains of marble ran ; 

And yet the Workmanship outshin'd the stone. 

109. 
What full Balconies, stately Tenasses, 
Spruce Anticks, fair Compartments, handsome Cants, 
Elaborate freezes, graceful Cornishes, 
Brisk and wellorder'd Turrets ! nothing wants 

That art could give to make the Outside fine ; 

Yet still the House is gallanter within. 

no. 
The double Door with open lips invites 
All Passengers ; th' officious Porter there, 
Completely leam'd in oomplemental Rites, 
Kind welcome bids them with his vocal cheer ; 
He smiles, he bows, he fawns, he knows the Name 
Of all the Guests ; and in he ushers them. 

III. 
The Hall's large Pavement silken Carpets spread 
To court the strangers' feet with soft delight ; 
The dainty Roof is arched over head 
With checker'd Roses red, and Lilies white ; 
Their precious Vapours liberal Odors deal. 
And round the room sweet entertainments thrill. 

112. 

But at the upper-end upon a throne 

Of moderate height sits crafty Treachery; 

A Fury older than her Hell, and one 

Whose years would by her Count'nanoe witness'd be. 
Had Art not interven'd, and taught her how 
To make false Spring upon true Winter grow. 

"3. 
Craz'd JeMobeFs lank and wrinckled face, was yet 
Less out of shape than hers ; until she found 
A Paint's Hypocrisy to garnish it. 
And with a youthful verdure cloth it round ; 
Thus came her Chinks, all stopp'd, and either cheek 
With beauteous poHture grew plump and sleek. 

114. 

Though thousand frowns her thoughts had overspred. 

Her outward Aspect wore a gentle guise ; 

Loves, Joyes, and Smiles were sweetly marshalled 

About her lips, her forehead, and her eyes : 
Brave Judith's lovely glances ne'r could dan 
More potent charms at Olo/eme's heart. 

115. 

Her Tresses, which indeed were Knots of Snakes, 

She overlaid with lies of dainty Hair ; 

Whose waving circling net of amber takes 

Spectators' souls as well's the sporting Air ; 
Atchieving no less valiant wonders, than 
The mighty Locks of Mamoah's conquering Son. 



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CANTO XI. 



Il6. 

An Olive Bnuich adom*d her dexter hand. 
Her sinister a Wreath of Roses : but 
The Wreath was slyly lin'd with Nettles, and 
The gentle Branch with ireful thorns beset : 
For this was She who Ptace oould teach to &U 
To Afassacru, and Sweets to flow with Gall 

117. 
Her robe of state stream'd full about her feet ; 
For such they fondly were esteem'd, whilst hid : 
But she had neither feet nor legs ; a great 
And knotty Tail hung sweeping in their stead : 
A Tail which she about her round could wind, 
And hug and kiss the Sting she ware behind. 

118. 
The Sirem thus, above the iVater, is 
As soft and smooth and clear a Nymph as she : 
But her Catastrophe of Monstrousness 
Lurks underneath with warey subtilty ; 
Whilst the most fairly foul contriveth how 
To keep the Maid aloft, the fish below. 

119. 
Whene'r she speaks, a flood of honey flows. 
And with her breath a cloud of odours breaks ; 
Yet in her mouth a crop of poison grows ; 
Between her lips a brood of adders makes 

Its cursed nest ; her tounge 's a mortal spear. 

And all her teeth invenom'd arrows are. 

120. 
But in her desperate bosom treasur'd lies 
The fatal Marrow and the Pith of Hell : 
Spight, TumulU, ope* Wars, Impieties, 
Ccm/ksicns» Detolattoms. Who can tell • 
The Monsters of that black Abyss, wherein 
Full room is found for all the Sea of Sin. 

";, 
Her chosen Courtiers waiting round her throne 
Were fulfed Peace, and buxom Courtisey, 
Freehearted FHemtUhip, mild Compassion, 
Neat CompUmeHt and golden Flattery, 
Nimble Ojficiousness, large Premises, 
Deep OatMs, false TrutAs, insidious Paith/mlness. 

122. 

Sweet angeUfaced things, restored Laws, 

Reformed Religion, rescud Liktrty ; 

For such the Vulgars' silly £euth, which knows 

Not what a Vizzard means, presumes they be ; 
Admiring for celestial Spiriu of Light 
The masked furies of infernal Night 

123- 
But at her back the Crew whom most she teoders 
Behind a Vail's dissimulation lies ; 



Stofi, Caimwueies, Bxciu, Assessments, Plunders, 
Ingagements, Covenants, Pulpit villaniu. 

Thanksgivings, Fasts, Law-ruining Esngem€s, 
Saered Rebellions^ Murdering 0/ Princes. 

124. 

Beyond which vail, an iron Portal led 
Into a Dungeon stuffd with fire and smoke ; 
A Dungeon horribly replenished 
With ail Damnation's furniture, whose look 

Tortur'd with endless fright those Pris'ners which 

Lay in that Jail of everi>uming Pitch. 

125. 
Grief liv'd in triumph there, and all the Pains 
Profest excess : the Language of the Den 
Was Sighs, and Groans, and noise of tumbled Chains. 
Cries, yellings. Curses, Blasphemies of Men 
And God himself, eternal Seizing by 
The Souls which Vengeance doomed there 10 fry. 

126. 
On Cain's most guilty brow there might you read 
A deeper Mark than God upon it set. 
His innocent Brother's Blood, which scalt and fed 
Upon its seat : his breast this made him beat. 
And now with truer reason cry. My Pain 
Is greater than my Patience can sustain. 

127. 
No longer now he dreaded to be slain. 
But wish'd to meet another Lameek who 
Might rid him of this dying Life : in vain 
He gnash'd his teeth ; in vain he curs'd his Woe, 

And Him who chain'd him in it'; for his Grief 

Sunk now below the region of Relief. 

128. 
That Millstone which his cruel brains had grown'd. 
AbiwuUck there counteth soft and light : 
For now a Stone more ponderous he found 
Squealing his Soul with full Damnation's Weight ; 

That Stone he made his desperate altar, when 

To's Pride he sacrific'd his Bretheren. 

129. 

There Delilah lay tearing off her Hair^ 
To think of whose her traiterous sheers had dipp'd ; 
The twisted Withes and Ropes less sturdy were 
Than those her falsehood now on her had heap'd : 
Those Chains, which bound her to her endless rack. 
Stronger than Samson's sinewy arms oould break. 

130. 

There lay fierce Joab, with his woful hand 
Clap'd on his fift Rib : for th' insidious Wound 
He thought he seal'd so sure on Abncr, and 
On Amasa, did on himself rebound ! 
Just David's Will, and Solomon's Command 
This Legacy gave him by Benaias hand. 



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CANTO XI. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



221 



131. 
Falsehearted Rtehab, and Baanah there 
With everlasting horror seem'd to see 
The Trunk of righteous Iskbosheth, and hear 
His dying Groans upbraid their Trtachtry. 
Gladly would they, to buy off this their pain, 
Give both their heads that his were on again. 

132- 

There hung rebellious Aksalom by his Head 

Not on an Oak, but on a fiery Tree. 

Whose boughs of Torture round about him spread, 

And shadow'd him with flaming Misery : 
lliree Darts stuck in his double Heart, and made 
Way for the stinging Worm therein to feed. 

133- 

His Tongue its popular blandishments forgot. 
By which it stole the Vulgars' loyalty, 
And nothing now but ugly Curses spit : 
Whence his religious Sire, whose piercing eye 

Descry'd his Doom, tun'd by no other key 

His LAmentatlon, but Extremity. 

134. 
There Ziia pour'd deep detestations on 
That fawning Zi>, which help'd his fraud to gain 
Upright Mepkibosheth's Possession, 
From which he reap'd this crop of endless Pain. 
There SAimei rail'd on his own RailiMg, who 
Had heap'd his curses on his Sovereign's Woe. 

135- 
The Pride of ready Wit, Akitophel 
With all his Plots about his halter wound. 
Hung sadly there : and now the Oracle 
No Ansvaers gave, but hideously profound 
Yellings and roars, which plain confession made 
That he himself more than his King betray' d. 

136. 

There Zimri howl'd to think how he was more 

With Treason drunk, than Blah was with Wine ; 

And now much fiercelyer flaming tortures bore. 

Than when his Palace all on fire did shine. 
There Shalluwi felt himself for ever by 
The wounds which murder'd Zackariak, die. 

137. 
There in their torn bemangled Flesh, and in 
Their broken bones, the Median Peers beheld 
Their Treason's recompence ; and found this Den 
More full of Terror, and more surely seal'd. 
Than that in which their cursed Fraudulence 
Had plunged blessed Daniels Innocence. 

1 38' 
These and ten thousand more liv'd dying there ; 
For deep and large the woful Dungeon wa^ 



And for their latest Heirs had room to spare ; 

Choise room for those to whom the loftiest place 
Of most profound Danmation was due, 
The Christian-seeming Trayterons-heing Crew. 

139. 
That CreWt whose shameless zeal pretends to set 
Christ on his throne, by pulling down his House : 
Who wno to make their Princes glorious, yet 
With monstrous triumph in their blood carrouse. 

That Crew, whose Pride and Lust's their only Reason ; 

Whose highest Sanctity deep-layed Treason. 

140. 

That Crew, whose several Stalls were ready built 

Of burning brass, and all in order placed 

(According to the merit of their Guilt) 

About a Throne, whose canopy was graced, 
With flames of sovereign Dreadfulness, a Throne 
Wide gaping for PerdiHon's venturous Son. 

141. 
For 'twas establish'd for prodigious /lim 
Whom yesns would have crowned King above ; 
But yndas in an heav'nly Diadem 
Would nothing find which might oblige his love ; 

With desperate impudence resotv'd was He 

To earn his torment's Principality. 

142. 

For hither now hell's anxious Monarch came. 

As to the Den of Avarice before ; 

When she beheld her dreadful Ix>rd, the Dam4 

Leap'd from her chair, and met him at the door, 
Where on her face, she humbly asked what 
Occasion brought his Highness to her grot. 

M3. 
His red hot iron sceptre Satan here 
Reach'd forth for her to kiss in sign of peace : 
Then smiling on her answering £Eioe. Most dear 
Of all my Feinds, said he-, my bus'ness is 

The weightyest that my Spight e'r undertook. 

Which if it fails, this Sceptre must be broke. 

144- 
Thou knowst time was when I and thou, did make 
A brave Adventure in the face of Heav'n. 
When at our Courage all the spheres did quake, 
And God was to his utmost thunder driven ; 

His Throne stood trembling at our rival Power. 

And had our foot not slipp'd, all had been our. 

145. 

But that Mishap 's too sleight and weak to break 

The strength of our immortal Pride ; forbid 

It all my Hell, that BeUebuk should make 

Truce with that Tyrant who disherited 
Him of his starry Kingdom : No ; I may 
Perchance be bMten, but will ne'r obey. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



CANTO XI. 



146. 

I am resolv'd to find Him work as long 

As He, and his Eternity can last ; 

My Spirit never must forget that wrong 

Which me into this hateful C^ngeOn cast : 
Nor need I fear Him now, since I can be 
But still in Hell, should He still conquer me. 

147. 
Full well I know his spight : had any Place 
Been worse than this, he would have damn'd Us thither : 
Yet He, forsooth, must be the God 0/ grace. 
Of Pity, and of Tendermss the Fathtr : 
And silly Men believe him too ; but We 
More wit have bought than so befool'd to be. 

148. 

For be he what he will to Men ; to Us 
He is a sworn and everlasting Foe. 
And is *t not just. He who nmligns Us thus. 
Should find that Devils are immortal too t 

I would not wrong Him ; yet mine own must I 

Not clip, to save intire his Majesty. 

149- 

My noble Will He sever yet subdued* 

And I am now too old to learn to bow : 

Upon my youth his utmost strength He shewed. 

Yet tender though I was. himself doth know 
Ev'n then I yielded not : And shall this fist 
Now brawny grown, the Tyrant not resist ? 

150. 

It must and shall : my Confidence beats high : 

For now on evener ground our fight shall be. 

He Irom steep slippery heav'n is come ; and my 

Footing on earth as sure as His will be. 
Besides, should we miscarry. We are there 
Nearer our heU. and no deep Call can fear. 

151. 
Yet that we may unlucky Chance defy. 
Wise Treason must direct our Project's way : 
Lend thou thine aid. and let th' iniquity 
Of Fate or Fortune, if it can, say nay. 

How oft when Rami in vain have push'd the Wall. 

Have cunning Underminings made it fall : 

I sa- 
lt can be no dishonor now, since He 
Hath in the vile hypocrisy of Dust 
And Ashes hid his heav'nly Majesty, 
For BelMtbub on Fraud to build his trust. 

Tis true, I scorn to trace his steps ; yet may 

I justly Him in his own Coin repay. 

153- 
Come, let 's away : with hate to Christ I bum 
More than with all my kingdom's flames. I swear 



By my bright Mother, th' undefiled Mom 

(A birer '\^rgin than the Carpenter 
Chose when he hew'd out Him ;) by this my Crown, 
And Horns, I '1 win his blood, or lose mine own. 

154. 
The cursed Souls within all heard him swear. 
And clapp'd with damned joy their flaming pawes. 
Hoping some fresh Companions destin'd were 
To share in pangs with them : HeU op'ci its jaws ; 
Earth split into a mighty gap ; and He 
Ascended with his Handmaid' 7>^A/rx. 



155. 



ye^h 



Then having melted both himself, and Her 
Into the next Wind's pliant lap he met. 
He sliely flew to Judas bosom ; where 
In with his breath he unperceived shot 
Thus other Plagues infused in the air 
With pois'nous stealth down to the Heart repair. 

156. 

As when a Tyrant hath usurp'd the Crown. 
The Arms and Ensigns of the rightful Heks 
He blurs, and tears, and pulls their Statues down. 
And in their rooms his own with triumph rears ; 
Leaving no Sign to make the People dream 
Of any Sovereign extant now but him : 

So Satan acts his spight in Juda's breast ; 
All characters which were ingraven there 
Of his leige Lord and only Master Christ, 
His mighty Miracles, his Love, his fear. 

His heav'nly Life and doctrine, he defaces. 

And every line of Piety erases. 

158. 
Then by the help of those Allies, which He 
Had there confederated (Avarice 
The Mother of all Mischiefs, Treachery 
The dextrous Midwife,) he erecteth his 
Black standard in th' ApostaUs wretched heart. 
And thence his Conquest spreads to every Part. 

159. 

For Judas now breaths nothing else but HeU, 

Whose fumes are tumbling all about his brain ; 

With plots of spight and rage his fisncies swell. 

And with contrivances of cursed Gain. 
No fury ever hatch'd such thoughts as He, 
Nor brought forth such portentuous VUlainy. 

i6a 

O Treachery how desperately blind 
And fooUsh is thy [rferdng Policy, 
Which trembles not an headlong way to find 
How to betray its 0¥m Felicity ; 

Which ventures to project Destruction for 

The Universe's only Saviour! 



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CANTO XI. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



223 



161. 

O Avarict^ how flat Idolatry 

Is thine, who canst vile rusty Wealth prefer 

Before the King 0/ heav'nly Majesty 

Whose beams than all thy Gold more golden are ; 
Who canst adore what Cankers feed on, and 
Spom Him on whom bright Cherubim attend ! 

162. 
Judas, the Slave of Gain, resolves to sell 
His most inestimable Lard; though He 
And He alone, his thirsty soul coifld fill 
With all the Riches of Eternity^ 
But Avarice his heart doth so bewitch 
That Heav'n he 1 sell, and only to be rich. 

163. 

His Chapmen are the Priests; for they who had 
Betray'd God's sacred House to Merchandise, 
Will make no scruple to extend their trade. 
And^count God saleable : but in the price 

They thrifty are, and beat their market low ; 

But Thirty silver pieces they '1 bestow. 

164. 
They little think their Heirs in time to come 
Will scorn thb sneaking Copy, and find' reason 
With iusty generousness to noake their Sum 
Suit with the brave Magnificence of Treason ; 
When for a King (how much less precious?), they 
Two hundred thousand Pounds will freely pay. 

165. 

Fy sordid Caiaphas, and Annas fy I 

Your Law cries shame of this unworthy Rate ; 

Consult your Books, and see if Equity 

Has not the meanest Man esteemed at 
Full fifty Shekels : ^ and will noble you 
For God and Man no more than thus allow i 

166. 
His Worth has Jesu's Godhead lower sunk 
Than is the vilest Wight's that breaths your air ? 
Bid but like Chapmen ; of your credits think 
And by the precious Ware your Offer square. 
O could you purchase Him aright, the Prize 
Would make you rich in all felicities. 

167. 

But thou improvident Judas, since thou art 

Resolved Him to sell whose value is 

Beyond th& power of Arithmetick Art 

To reckon up, proportion but thy Price 
In some more near degree : let thy Demand 
Make Buyers what they purchase understand. 

168. 
Ask all the gold that rolls on Indus s shore. 
Ask all the treasures of the Eastern Main, 

1 LrvtV. 97. 3. 



Ask all the Earth's yet undiscovered Ore, 

Ask all the Pearls and Gems where Lustres reign. 

Ask Herod's checker, ask the Highpriests Crown. 

Ask Cesar s mighty scepter and his throne. 

169. 

Ask all the silver of the glistering Stars, 
Ask aU the gold that flames in Titans eyes, 
Ask all the Jewels of Aurora's Tears, 
Ask all the Smiles and Beauties of the Skies, 

Ask Paradise, ask whatsoever can 

Or cannot given be by God or Man. 

170. 
Trade not with these, the worst of Chapmen, who 
So fouly under-rate thy Merchandise : 
To John, to Andrew, or to Peter go. 
Who knowing 'tis past knowledge, know the price 

Of their invaluable Lord; and see 

What for their Uve's best Life they *1 profer ITiee. 

171. 
Try what the Virgin-mother will bestow 
For Whom she values dearer than her heart ; 
Proclaim thy Market unto Heav'n, and know. 
Whither wise Seraphs will not gladly part 
With more than thirty silver pieces for 
Him, whom with prostrate fiEiCes they adore. 

17a, 
Or have but patience to see what He, 
Not for his own, but for thy Life will give ; 
And at what charge his Charity will be 
Thee from that killing Bargain to reprieve. 
Suspect not that his Poverty is poor : 
Thou keepst his Bag, but keepst not all his store. 

173- 
Alas, though every Sin be Blindness, yet 
Hell knows no Crime so full 0/ pitch as this. 
Nor doth the Sun 0/ human Reason set 
In any Night so blach as Avarice : 

Darkness ne'r sate so thick on Egypt s brow. 

As on the mental eyes of Judas now. 

174. 

Urge him no more with Sense and Reason ; He 

Against those tides is stifly set to row ; 

For since no God but Money he can see. 

He nothing sees at all, and cares not how 
He makes his desperate Baigain, so he may 
Have but this wretched Sum in ready Pay. 

»75. 
Thus Jesu's Wisdom had contriv'd to shew 
The mighty patience of his Goodness ; who 
Though firom Heav'n's Glory his bright self he threw 
Into the arms of dust and shame, that so 
Man's cursed Seed he might redeem to Bliss, 
Sold by ungrateful Man's perverseness is. 



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PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY, 



CANTO XI. 



176. 
And now the chink of his adored Coin 
Sounds in his Purse, the Traitor hasts to be 
As good *s his wicked word, and is in pain 
Till forth he brings his hired Treachery. 

He thinks it an unworthy odious crime. 

To chtat th* Pritsts, who thus had trusted him. 

177. 
(O Eni/nttaHek Wickedness/ that He 
To whom his Heav'nly Lord's all -precious Love 
Could seem no bond of Faithfulness, should be 
By this most vile obligeraent bound, and prove 

So fSaithful to his foes ! this. Psyche, this 

A knotty riddle to thy Phylax is. 

178. 

So strange a thing is Man's mysterious Heart. 

No Angel's Eye can through its secrets run : 

To sound this bottom is the sovereign Art 

And Privilege of God himself alone : 
A certain proof that his sole fingers did 
Write those dark Lines, which only He can read.) 

179. 
The CVi;'/!^ therefore, loth his plot should fail 
And Treason's matchless credit be prevented ; 
Begg'd some assistance, that he might assail 
Omnipotence the surer, and indented 

To have an armed Guard : the Priests were glad 

To see the Man so desperately mad. 

180. 
A Band they had. and of commanded Men 
Whose Hearts were iron, and whose Foreheads brass : 
No Boars or Tigres ever could outrun 
Their fury, when their aim at mischief was : 

Right Sovereign were these Monsters, had it not 

Been for their Master's and Iscariot, 

181. 
With churlish Clubs were some appointed, some 
With keen and thirsty Swords, but all with Spight: 
In front of whom new Captain Judas came, 
Resolv'd to slay, but yet afraid to fight : 
For Cowardise in Treasons essence rests. 
Which fraud or number more than Valor trusts. 

182. 
The Ensigns of this Band of Night-birds were 
Suspicious Lanthoms, and bold Torches, which 
With glaring beams awak'd the Midnight Air, 
Whose groping silent shades startled by such 

Unseasonable Apparitions, fled 

Behind the Hills and Trees to hide their head. 

183. 
Thus having marched over Cedron, they 
To yonder Garden came, too sweet a place 



To be this Mischiefs scene ; but yet his Prey 

Th' insidious Serpent ventured to chase 
In sweetest Eden ; and Iscariot, who 
His footsteps traced, hither chose to go. 

184. 

Thy sacred Lord with his Disciples, there 

Retired was, and now began to pray : 

When lo, a Spectacle of direr fear 

March'd full against his single fince. than They 
Whose armed spight approach to sacrifice 
His Patience to contempts and cruelties. 

185. 

A black and labouring Cioud hung o'r his Head, 

In which his Father veil'd his gracious Eyes ; 

Yet through that pitch his dreadful Arm he spread. 

And reach'd it down to Earth : from angry Skies 
The Lightning never with such terror broke, 
Nor Thunder's trump the Rocks and Mountains shook. 

186. 

For in his Hand a mighty Cup he held. 
In which he made all Horrors boil and flame : 
Unto the brim's vast circle it was fill'd 
With all the World's excrementitious stream. 

Which Vengeance kindling with her fiery breath 

Had tum'd into the Ocean 0/ Death, 

187. 

That Universal Taint whose rankling flood 
From Adam's veins through all his Race had ran, 
Met in this Sink, and joyned with the Brood 
Of every singular Transgression : 

Besides, about the Cup each several Pang, 
Which every several Sin deserv'd, was hung. 

188. 
Had now the sublimated Soul of Gall, 
Had all the Deaths which live in Thessaly, 
Had every Cockatrice's tigg^ had all 
The maws of Dragons, had the Tyranny 

Of Spight her self, or had the odious flood 

0( Anna's, Ctuaphas's, Iseariots Bk>od. 

189. 

Had Styx, had Phlegeton, had all that Wits 
Have fain'd, and all that Justice made in Hell, 
Had all iht^ames which Etna's furnace spits 
Had all the Stinks which in the Dead Sea dwell. 
Had all the Poisons of each Serpents tongue 
Which Lybia frights, into the Cup been wrung. 

19a 

The Draught had Nectar been compar'd to this : 

Yet loe the monstrous Mixture to the Up 

Of Sweetnesse's own Lord presented is. 

O Psyche, how shall he digest this Cup, 
Which were theSons of Adam forc'd to drink. 
The Worid would drowned be in its own Sink ? 



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CANTO XI. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



335 



191. 
Bat wen He knew the Hemd which lov'd his Cheeks 
When he in Bliss's bosom made his nest ; 
And though so strange an Offer now it makes, 
Tis still tht same: and bow can he resist 
What his dear Paiktr tenders him» although 
The Ctip with Horror's own hear&hod do's flow I 

192. 

Were it as wide and deep and full again. 

This Tkom^ alone commands it to be sweet ; 

And till hi drink its Pangs he is in faint 

So valiant 's his ObidUnct, and so great 
His £mv€ to Man, who else must needs have quaSt 
This dismal Boul, and perish'd in the Draught 

193- 
Bat then this Thought was justled by another, 
For He himself was passive fttsh and Blood : 
Natttro (whose earnest votoe who e'r could smother?) 
Up in her own defence right strongly stood ; 
For who can willingly be headlong hurl'd 
Into that Gn(^ which would devour the World? 

194- 
O how He struggled in this mighty strait, 
Being himself toith his brave self to fight / 
Had all the Center's most compacted Weight 
Pitch'd on his heart, the burden had been light, 

And easy unto that which squeased He 

Endnr'd in this heroich Agony. 

195. 

In vain should I contend to r e prese n t 

What no Comparison's excess can reach ; 

Vnknown, unknown the Sorrows were which spent 

Thdr ftuy on his Platienoe, and such 
As none but He himself could measore, who 
ResolVd to grapple with the Soul of Woe, 

196. 

The Contestation grew so hot within 

That aU his bosom fell on flaming fire ; 

And from that melting furnace, through his skin 

Thick Praofe of monstrous Fervor did transpire ; 
For at the month of every labouring pore 
Not watery Sweat, but Bkx>d broke ope its door. 

197. 
O matchless Comhail whose mysterious power 
Witboot the edge of sword, or pofait of dart 
Could doth Htm round with lamentable gore, 
And wound him from within ; whilst every Part 
Rack'd and transfixed with intestine strains. 
In streams of porple tears bewail'd its pains. 

198. 

Down to the Ground this sweating Torrent pour'd, 
Ftom off its Face to wash the hamn Curse/ 

46 



Whilst moated in his melted self, thy Lord 
The noble fight did freshly reinforce : 

His Mortal Passion three stout Onsets gave 

To his Immortal Piety and Love. 

199. 

Pathor, he cryd, by that thy Under Name, 
Thy most afflicted Son commiserate : 
If Mercy's wisdom any way can frame 
How to reprieve me firom this dismal fate ; 

O let thine Hand, which brings this Ca^ to me. 

Remove, with it, my Woe's extremity. 

200. 

But strait by most athletick bravery 
Mounting i^ve himself, he noblyer cries. 
Although an Bitterness triumphant be 
In this one Cup, it must and shall suffice 
That from thy Hand it comes : thy sovereign Will 
And not mine own, shall be my Pleasure stiU. 

201. 
Thus when his adamantine Fate doth call 
The Phenix to his grave ; though Life's strong plea 
Urges his stay, yet to his Funeral 
He flies with joyful grief ; where generously 
Bk>wing the fire with's wings' applauding breath. 
To hatch his End he broods Yi^zjlaming Death. 

Tfans reverend Abraham when his God's Command 
Sent him to bath his sword in Isaae*s blood. 
Divided was in his own bowels, and 
With his stout self in competition stood ; 
Till valourous Piety her powers strain'd, 
And th' arduous Laurel of self-conquest gain'd. 

203. 

But when thy mighty Lord atdiieved had 
This triple Conquest : Judas and his Rout 
Like hungry bears into the Garden made, 
And for their booty rang'd and rov'd about ; 
Not knowhig He as ready was to be 
Betrayed, as they to act their Treachery, 

204. 
For like a known victorious Champion, who 
Before his other Poa hath conquer'd Pear, 
He meeU their Rage ; demanding, whom with so 
Untimely strange a chase they hunted there. 

Them, and their Spigfat's design fill well he knew. 

Yet this brave Challenge in their fiux he threw. 

205. 
Jesus of NoMareth we seek, said they. 
Alas, blmd Souls, He came to seek out you, 
And lead you safely in the Kin^s high way 
Up to his Reahn above, that on your brow 
The Grown of Bliss might ever shine : but ye 
In nothing wouU be/wjuf bat Treachery. 

2F 



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336 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO XI. 



306. 
Nor They, nor his own yndas. Psyche, knew 
Thy Spouse*s hot ; which as it flam'd before 
With royal beauty, so was clouded now 
And smear'd in 's bloody Agonistlk Gore. 
Thus like some dusky MeUor Pkthts shows 
When an Eclipse has quench'd his glittering brows. 

307. 

But He, who would not be unknown to those 
Who came to suck what Uood was left behind ; 
(That bk>od which burned in his vdns, till loose 
It got, and flowed like his liberal Mind,) 
Revests his Look with giacelul Majesty, 
And champion-like professes, lam He, 

308. 
If ever thou hast seen what killing Dread 
Base-hearted Traitors doth anest, when by 
Their injur'd Sovereign discovered 
Their naked Treason feels his awful Eye ; 
Ttfki^ this fright, and then compute what fear 
Shot through the Souls of these vile CaytifEs here. 

309. 
A stream of horror drove them trembling back, 
And overwhelm'd them flat upon the ground ; 
Deep in the Gulph of which dismaying wrack 
Their shivering spirits had been for ever drown'd. 
Had He to Mercy's shore not snatch'd out them, 
The Tempest of whose fury storm'd at Him. 

3ia 
O how will they endure his radiant Eyes, 
Which all this World on flaming fire shall set ; 
When He in triumph sweeping through the skies 
Shall hither come, and mounted on his great 

Tribunal, once again cry, / am He; 

No more the Prey, but Judge of Treachery, 

311. 
When they no Lantern's, nor no Torch's light. 
Nor Judas' s conduct any more shall need ; 
But by Our Trumfets Death-awakening fright 
Be summon'd from their dust, and hurried 

Up to the Bar of Heav'n's all-dooming Son ; 

Whom then they would not find, but cannot shun. 

313. 
But Bridling now this guilt-appalling splendor. 
And cov'nanting, that his Disciples may 
Safely retreat. He condescends to render 
Himself to his unworthy foes, who lay 
Quaking before him, and had quite forgot 
Their own fell envy, and the Highpriest Plot. 

313. 
But feeling Life afresh their Bosoms beat. 
And seeing Jesus upon yielding, (since 



For all his braving flash, he stoop'd to Treat,) 
They heartpcd up their frighted impodenoe. 
And feared not to hope^ that they might now 
Safdy as furious as their wishes grow. 

314. 
For as a Serpent brus'd and foil'd, if die 
Spies any ways to reinforce her fight. 
Her crest and looks she rears, and venturously 
Advanceth both her wrath and bane to spit : 
So started up these Elves, and cheer'd their head 
(And this Iscarioi was) to do the Deed. 

315. 

When k>, strange He, forgetful of the Fail, 

From which he rose but now, and fearing not 

The hasard of a greater, nuister'd all 

His Impudence's power ; and to get 
The fame of second Lucifer, led up 
Against the Lord 0/ Hosts his desperate TVoop. 

3 16. 
Yet golden was the Arrow that he shot, 
Bumish'd with feir and complemental grace ; 
Though in as mortal venom dipp'd as that 
Which slew Bve's Heart, when she saluted was 
By Faii^tongu'd Hell, and by the Tempter driven 
With courteous treason from her Barthly Heaven. 

317. 

Hail, Master, was the Word : What Ear oould now 

Disrelish such a sugar'd Noise as this t 

Can discord's killing-jars be taught to grow 

Upon a bed of Musick ? Master is 
The phrase of service ; Hail of Love ; yrX He 
Could make this sweet salute insidious be. 

3l8. 

And when his fUthless Tongue her part had done. 

His Lips succeeded in the Treachery, 

With flattering-bloody malice venturing on 

The very fece of highest Majesty / 
For, that his cursed Project might not miss, 
He seal'd it on his Master with a Kiss, 

319. 
^O Wit of Treason / which abuseth thus 
The Pasratiympk of gentlest Courtesy 
Into the Bawd of deepest Barbarousness I 
Monstrous Iscariot how dost thou by thy 
Inhumane Kindness, both a Traitor prove 
Of Loves great Master, and the Pledge of Love* 

32a 
Is not a Kiss the soft and yielding Sign 
Which daps the Bargain of Affection up : 
The sweetly-joyous Marriage between : 
The tenderest Pair of Lovers, Lip and Lip : 
The closing Harmony, which when the Tongue 
Has done itt best, completes iht pleasing Song f 



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CANTO XI. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



237 



331. 

Is not a Kiss that MysHek Stamp, which though 
It sinks not in, yet deep Impressions leaves : 
The smooth Conveyance of the Soni, which through 
The closed Mouth her thrilling self derives : 
Th' Epitomy of genuine Salutation^ 
And Modesty s most graceful CopulaHon f 

232. 

Is not a Kiss the dearly-sacred Seal 

Which cements happy Friends' concording hearts? 

Must this betrayed be I Must &ithless Hell 

Truth's daintyest Soder taint I Must Haired: s Arts 
Be clothed in the delicatest Dress 
Of courteous Peau and amorous Tenderness I 

333. 

Must sweet Arabia's beds belch out a Stink 
Outpois'nmg all the Bane of Thcssalyl 
Must milky Lilies stain their leaves with Ink I 
Thick-lin'd with Thorns nmst Buds of Roses be 1 
Must Harshness lurk in Dvoni I Must Honey flow 
With Galll Must summer Gales bring Ice and Snow / 

334. 
O what win Treason not presume to do, 
Which more than all these strange Mutations makes 
In this one venturous Fact of Judas; who 
By Lov^s delicious Tye all Friendship breaks ; 
Who biteth with his Lips, not with his Teeth 
And pk>tts to Kiss his dearest Lord to death. 

335. 

Who teacheth all Succeeding Traitors how 
To mask with bumish'd Gold that rankling Brass 
Of Impudence, which arms their sullen brow ; 
To tip Rebellion with meek Lies; to grace 
Their arrogant Treaties with submissive Words 
Whilst at their Sovereign's heart they aim their swords. 

336. 

But though Iscariot his own Lcfoe betrajrs, 
His Lords triumph's beyond all Treachery, 
Resolv'd against the Traitor's Rage to raise 
An higher counter-work of Lenity : 

Though Jesus yields his mighty self, he will 

Intire maintiiin his tender Fity stilL 

337. 
He call'd no Lightning from the Qouds, or from 
His dared Eyes to flash on Judais £Eu:e, 
And stamp upon his Ups that flaming doom 
Which due to their blood-thirsty Flattery was : 

He chai^g'd not Earth her drndinl mouth to ope, 

And evennore this hellish Kisser's stop. 

338. 
O no 1 with heav'nly Tenderness he cry'd, 
FHend wherefinre art thou eowu f gxi9J^VLvnxSi<t 



Of most afironted Patience, which vy'd 
With Spigkts Excess t upon the face of Hell 
Shall FrienSs celestial Name be printed by 
Him who beholds and feels its Treachery I 

229. 

Is foul Ingratitude, rank Apostasy, 

Right down Rebellion, into Friendship tum'd ? 

Or rather has not this Disciple by 

His curs'd Revolt, a Fury's title eam'd? 
And will his wronged Lord by "none but this 
Sweet Name, revenge his most invenom'd Kiss, 

230. 

Psyche, Jesus tortured was to see 

His Foe himself down into Tortures throw ; 
And by this Charm's inviting Suavity 
Back into heav'n endeavor'd him to draw : 

He knew Love's Cords were strong, and strove by these 

To pluck him from his gulf of Miseries. 

231. 

Wfy art thou come, thy Friend to undermine? 

Why art thou come, with arms against a Lamb f 

Why art thou come, to loose what would be thine ? 

W^ art thou come, to gain eternal shame? 
What means this madly-mighty Preparation, 
For thy Lords death, and for thine own Damnation? 

232. 

1 in its natural Language will thy Kiss 
Kindly interpret, and to it reply 

In that dear dialect, if thou to Bliss 

At length wilt yield, and in my Nursery 
Of heav'nly Plants enjoy thy ready room : 
Say then my FMend, O say, Wl^ art thou come f 

233I 
Thus did the Prince of Sweetness woe. and plead : 
But this deaf Serpent stopp'd his cursed ear. 
The stubborn bolt of thirty Pieca made, 
Forbad all holy Charms to enter there. 

When lo, the Soldiers, knowing now their Prey, 

On Jesui fiBU« and hurried him away* 

234. V 

The Spouse of Souls was thus, for love of th€». . 

Psyche, and all his other Brides, content 

By Judas to be viley sold, and be 

Insidiously destroy' d in Compliment. 
Shrinh not ifU^ near Friends abuse A^ love. 
Since GotTs own Favorite could so faithless prove, 

235- 
And let the World by this one Copy learn 
That hell-bred Boldness a not strange or new ; 
By which most foster'd favour'd Creatures turn 
Fairtongued Enemies, and lead a Crew 
Of Miscreants aim'd with Uoody-meek Pretences 
Against the Powers and Persons of their Princes. 



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328 



PSYCHE: OR LOVES MYSTERY. 



CANTO XL 



236. 
Bat migfatj matter 'tis of Wonder, that 
They who have seen what gains Itcarid made, 
Are not astonished with horror at 
The thought of following his accursed TYade ; 

Bat desperatdy forget what Him befel. 

Him. their abhorred Usktr into HtlL 

237. 
For when no Mercy could th' Apostate win 
To entertain his Pardon, Vingtance made 
Just haste to pour her self upon his Sin ; 
Whilst Saian, of her fierce concurrence glad. 

His Treason in its proper coin repa/d, 

And this Btirayer fioally betray d. 

238. 
She to the Garden's grimmest corner, where 
Thoughtful disconsolate Night sate thick and black, 
Lash'd him aside ; and having fitted there 
The implements of her inieraal Rack, 

With studied fury, not his body, bat 

His captivated Soul on it She pat. 

239. 

For, by a Torch, which glar'd with hellish light. 
She to Iseariofs intellectual eyes 
Her dismal Self display'd : Excessive fright 
Did strait his wretched helpless heart surprise ; 

Each joint and member quak'd and sweat ; and He 

Felt in tUs Garden too kis Agomy, 

24a 
He saw dire Bduhii's sulphureous Look 
Boiling with swarthy fire ; his Horns he saw 
High mounted on his head, which as be shook 
His Hair's intangled Snakes their knots did knaw : 
He saw his adamandne Nails and Paws, 
His steely Teeth, his brasen gaping Jaws. 

24L 
He saw the Tempest of his flaming breath 
Which gloomy volumes spew'd of stinking smoke : 
He saw the windows of eternal Death 
Flung open in bis staring Eyes, whose stroke 
Slew him alive : he saw his iron Maoe, 
His burning Feet, and his enraged Pace : 

242. 

He saw his forked Tail in triumph thrown 

Upon his shoulder, and his h«ful Brow 

With cruel scorn contracted in a firown : 

Rampant IwtplacoHlity he saw 
In every gesture, and too plainly read 
The full Description of Immortal Dread, 

243- 
Profoundly leam'd that Lesson made him in 
The mighty Volumes of his own Distress : 



The more he look'd, the more in every line 
He found himself so k>st, that no Redress 

Could glinmier in his damped Hopes, or dteer 

His wdul Desolation's hemisphere. 

244. 
When k>, stem Lucifer threw out his hand. 
And by her throat his guilty Consdenoe took ; 
And now, he cry'd, 1 1 make thee understand 
What thou hast chose, and vriiat thoa hast forsook : 
Mark well this dainty Pair ofDanuels, which 
Could Irom thy God and Heav'n thy Ixne bewitch. 

245. 

Which said, he op'd to his astooish'd view 

The face of his adored Avarice, 

And Treachery ; not in their former hue 

Of borrowed smiles and outside oomelynesi. 
But hi their naked native filth : and then 
Shaking his Horns and Paws, he thus went on : 

246. 
Maddest of Poets, how many HeUs dost thoa 
Deserve, who with such Hags couldst Call in love. 
When Jesus woo'd thy heart? these Hags, which now 
Th' hast paid so deariy for, must, doubtless prove 
Sweet Brides, and preciously adorn thy Bed 
Which in the bottom of my Realm is spred. 

247- 

If they have any fieature. jomt, or Urn 

Which is not horrid ; may my Scepter break. 

And may my royal Tongue no more blaspheme. 

For once I tell thee true, and thou mayst take 
The DeuiTs word, in monstrous Uj^hiess 
I know no Puries who thy Wives surpass. 

248. 
And was thy Lord so vile a Thing, that He 
Might not with These hi competition stand 1 
Were thy unthankful Eyes e'r gnc'd to see 
A face so rich m purest Beauties, and 

Majestiek Graces, as in His did shine, 

Making Humauiiy appear Divine ? 

249. 

Most stupid Sotf how oft didst thou behold 

Divinity firom his great Hand break out I 

How oft has his Omnipotence control'd. 

And put my stoutest Legions to rout I 
Yet still with desperate devotion thoa 
(And here he beat the Soul,) to Me wouldst how, 

25a 

Nay never houl ; 'tis but the Earnest, this. 
Of what 's to come : Thou needs wouldst how to Me, 
Of whom that Christ the well-known Conqueror is : 
He threw me down from heaven's Sublimity 
Into that Pit of Pangs, where I am now 
The damned Sovereign of such as Thou, 



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CANTO XX. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVETS MYSTERY. 



229 



251. 
Hadst not as good have bow'd to migkHer Him, 
Whose Yoki thou wouldst have lighter ta^mA than mine? 
I tell thee yudas, I am but a grim 
And rygged Lord; what Prises once I win, 

I grasp for ever, and shall make them fry 

In Torment's bottomless extremity. 

252. 
And can my Hell, and everlasting Spight, 
Put on the looks of sudi prevailing Worth 
As yesu*s value to outshine I Can Night 
Day's lustre dasel 1 brings Z3l(iflMtf/Mi» forth' 

Such strong Temptations ? can eternal Bliss 

Not woe and win as potently as this I 

253- 

Sure Hell and Death are gallant Things, and I 

Must not allow thee them, until thou hast 

In an the storms of Hate and In&my 

Which Salem, or the IVorld can raise, been tost 
This Preface shall for that eternal Smart 
Which gapes and tongs for thee, prepare thine heart 

254. 

Go then, the Age's Blot and Monster, go; 
Let every Mouth spit on thy hated head ; 
Let every Tongue thy way with Curses stiow ; 
Let eveiy Hand be arm'd to strike thee dead ; 

Let every Eye abhor thy baleful sight ; 

Let all the World revenge thy traitemts Spight. 

255. 

Let every mad Dog bark and snarl at thy 
More currish Look ; Let every Night-raven groan 
Thy funeral kndl ; Let every Scritch-owl's Czy 
Teach thee to tune Death's Ejulation ; 
Let every direful Mandrake's killing Shriek, 
Thy ears, thy comforts, and thy heart-strings break. 

256. 
Let Heav'n frown on thee, and the starry Host 
Pour on thy soul their angryest influence, who 
Their and thine ovm great Lord betrayed hast ; 
In one vast bolt let all God's Thunders now 
Conjoin their Wrath to tear obdurate Thee 
Who by no Mercy moUify'd wouldst be. 

257- 

That Stroke will ram thee down into thy Death, 

Thy dear-eam'd Death ofnever^ying Pain ; 

Where melted by my flaming eyes and breath, 

Thy thirty silver pieces I will drain 
Into thy heart ; that thou mayst shriek and roar 
Whilst there they bum and boil for evermore. 

258. 
This said ; th' insulUng Prince of Tyrant^ 
A while withdrew, and rested confldent 



To see Maturity get wings, and fly 
To overtake his Plot : yet e'r he went. 

Seven times be thresh'd the Conscience with the flail 

Of his enormous poison-pohited tall 

259. 

As when the Deluge in the youth of Time 

Broke out upon the World, and with a Sea 

Of universal Wo surprix'd the Crime 

Which dar'd just Vengeances Severity ; 
Those bold Delinquents saw their opened graves 
In Desperation first, then in the Waves : 

26a 
So Judas taken hi this mighty flood 
Of deepest Anguish, had no power of thinking 
Which way to scape, or that his Saviour's Blood 
Might drown that Sea in which he now was sinking. 
O no 1 the thought of that pure Blood alone 
POur'd on his faat Guilfs Hushing Ocean. 

261. 

Since more in Money he his Trust, than in 
His God had put ; he dares not harbour hopes 
That Mercy now could reach his heigfatned Sin : 
A gap hf/ear to Impudetue he opes ; 

For by this wretched Dread of Goodness he 

Gives flat defiance to its Lenity. 

262. 
Revenge he sees full aiming at his head, 
He sees his Treason flashing in his fiaoe. 
He sees the World's just Anger marshalled 
Against his odious Crime ; bee sees the place 

Deep in the heart of Hell, where damnerl He 

Designed is for evermore to be. 
263. 
Wth that, his cloths, his hair, his flesh he tore. 
He roar'd, he rav'd, and thus to Cursing fell : 
May that unhappy Day be read no more 
In any Calendars but those of Hell : 

Which to this baleful Life did me betray, 

A Life to living Death the dying way, 

264. 
Curs'd be my Father, who a Brat begot 
The Heir to nothing but to Hate and Woe : 
And cursed be my Mother's womb, whose hot 
Pleasures at my Conception, only to 
Those hotter Paizis prepar'd the path for me 
Who now in fire's deep womb conoeiv'd must be. 

265. 
Curs'd be those Paps, which nourish'd me, when my 
Yotmg Innocence might happily, have dy'd : 
Curs'd be my tender Nurse, who feared by 
Sure Poison's courtesy, in death to hide 
Me from this deadlyer Night : and cursed be 
AH sicknesses which would not murther me. 



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CANTO XI. 



266. 

Cnrs'd be this Hand, which often ready had 
A Knife, and yet forbore my throat to cut : 
Cnrs'd be these feet, which oAen travelled 
Over the brows of Ptecipioes. yet 
Woold never stumble, that I might have fell 
Then but to Earth, who tumble now to Hell. 

267. 
Cnrs'd be the Day, which first acquainted me 
With Jtsus, and my ominous Name Inroll'd 
Amongst his blessed Chaplains; Cursed be 
That Thirst of Wealth, by which my self I sold 
More sadly than my Master: Curs*d be all 
The gravely-wicked Chapmen, and the Sale, 

368. 
Cnrs'd be this Garden ; upon every bed 
May fiual Hemlock, Wolfbane, Poppy grow ; 
May Adders, Basilisks, and Vipers feed 
Their poison here ; on every Tree and Bough 

May winged Dragons perch, that something may 

Resemble yudas here another day. 

269L 
Another Day! O no ; may thickest Night 
Upon this Scene of Treason ever dwell ; 
That neither Sun nor Star may reach their light 
More unto this, than to the other Hell. 

The bkxMly beams of Ghosts ViA fiends will glare 

With fittest histre in this gniUy Sphere, 

270. 

Bat may the deepest of all Execrations 

On you my Thirty Silver Torments M : 

What Vengeance shall requite those sweet Temptations 

Whidi thus have drown'd me in a Sea of Gall? 
Can I no way contrive, base paltry Clay, 
How I may yon, as you did me, betray ? 

271. 
Down shall I hurry you with me to Hdl, 
And hold you fest amidst my endless flames ; 
Or kick you back into your former cell. 
The High-priesfs Bagf this, this to Judas seems 

The blacker and the crueler Pit ; and I 

Thither again will damn you Instantly. 

272. 
This said ; like that tormented Man in whose 
Wikl bosom reign'd a Legion of fiends. 
Himself to Salem in mad haste he throws. 
Where to the Temple he his passage rends ; 
Not doubting but his Chapman he should find 
Against their God in his own House oombin'd. 

273. 
He found them there, and in among them ran, 
Flinging about his hand, his head, his eyes ; 



And having strdn'd his Ejuktion 

To Horror's tune ; my Crime, my Crime, he cries. 
Bums in my tortured breast, and domineers 
Too fiercely to be quenched by my tears. 

274. 
No Expiation that Altar knows 
Which for my monstrous Guilt can satisfy : 
My Master^ s blood in such vast torrents flows 
On my unpardonable Sonl, that I 

Am drown'd for ever in my deep Offence. 

Being condemned ky his Innocence. 

275. 
Take, take your Trash; and take my Cu«e with it : 
Heir s gulf devour your Souls, Here first on Them, 
Then on his Silver pieces having spit. 
He threw them at their hated heads ; and from 

The Temple in wild indignation flung« 

Raving and cursing as he ran along. 

276. 
For all the way he thought he strugled through 
An army of reviling Detestations : 
Over his head his arms this made him throw 
To shield it from his own Imaginations : 

Through which from hcav'n and earth such arrows flew 

As wounded him at every step anew. 

277. 
For Melasuholy, dark as is the Pitch. 
Which on Avemus's throat so thick doth grow, 
Chok'd every glimpse of Senu and Reason which 
Offer'd to dawn in 's bosom's orb, and show 

Him by what tortuHng Afistahes he had 

Himself unto himself a Tyjant made. 

27a 

Dive Melancholy; which, (though sober she 
Whilst young and governable, gains the name 
Of Wisdom's Handmaid,) when Maturity 
Strengthens her gloomy poison, turns her tame 
Hypocrisy to headlong Madness, and 
AU other Feinds in Fury doth transcend. 

279. 
Thus came he to a silent secret place 
Without the Town, yet could not think it so ; 
But fancied still that all the City was 
Hot in the chase of Hun his Saviour's Foe. 

Each Hrd orfiy that moved, made him start ; 

Each Wind that puffed, blew quite through his heart. 

28a 
His Eyes (fistracted were, 'twixt looking up 
For fear least Heav'n should fall upon his head ; 
And down, least Earth her dreadful mouth should ope 
And snatch him to his grave e'r he were dead : 

Till with this Terror tir'd, his breast he stroke. 

And into right^lown Desperation broke. 



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CANTO XI. 



PSYCHE: OR LOVE'S MYSTERY. 



231 



281. 

Adiea all Hopes, he cry'd, and Fears adieu ; 

Come VengeaDce come, my heart is ready here. 

Back to the Priests, I see, in vain, I threw 

That Money, whose sad burden still I bear ; 
Still close and heavy sticks its Rust upon 
My gnawed Soul ,* and I must be undone. 

282. 
If Heav*n be just, what means its Wrath's delay, 
Now it beholds my most-deserving head I 
Am I not Judas f did not I betray 
Its only 50iff Is not my Consdenoe red 
With JesH*s spotless Blood ? and yet can I 
Endured be to live, when He must die I 

283. 
At least great Satan do not thou deny 
Thy Servant Pay for that grand Work, which he 
Hath compassed with matchless Villany, 
In high obedience to thy Peinds and Thee» 

What Soul e'r dared more than I have done, 

Or eam'd a galUmter Damnation f 

284. 

Didst thou not nobly promise me but now 

The dearest Torments of thy deepest Jail? 

Deceive me not i^ain : if ever thou 

Thy Credit tendredst, venture not to £edl 
Thy trusty Judas; or ne'r hope to see 
Man serve thee more ; if thou rewardst not Me. 

285. 
Come then, bum up these Lips which leam'd of thee 
Their killing ICiss ; Dash out these Bnxas which thou 
Taughtst how to plot, what now I dread to see ; 
This Carkase in a thousand pieces throw. 

And empty out on every cursed Part 

The total rage of thy infernal Smart. 

286. 
Take this despairing Soul, and let it be 
The Prey of thy immortal Furies : 'tis 
No groundless challenge ; that, as due to me 
I claim the utmost of thy Spight ; unless 

Thy Debt's infinitude thou hast forgot ; 

Jesus and Heav'n into thine bands I put. 



287. 
Jesus and Heav'n ; whom I must ever hate. 
As having made them my eternal foes : 
O how I long to be in that Fru State 
Where generous Blasphemy no bridle knows ; 

Where I may Rage as loud 's Heay'n's Thunders roar. 

And, being cursed, curse for evermore. 

288. 
Here Fury's foaming Tide quite stopp'd his throat : 
Yet still he star'd, and struggled with his Grief ; 
Still off he tore his hair, his breast he smote. 
And through Self-tortures hunted for Relief : 
His Tongue he bit because it would not speak. 
And stamp'd the Earth which would not open break. 

289. 

He hideously grinn'd and gnash'd his teeth, 
With most importunate frenzy stung, to find 
The cruel dalliance of his wooed Death 
Which spar'd his Body whilst it slew his Mind : 
His sides he griped, and was mad to feel 
HeU in himself who tong'd to be in HelL 

290. 

But as the sullen Fat, and Pitch, and Hair 

By Daniel cast into the Dragon's, throat. 

Burned, and roar'd and rag'd, and tumbled there 

More furiously than in the boiling Pot ; 
Till with importunate swelling torments they 
Quite through his monstrous belly burst their way. 

291. 
So flam'd this Lump of Horror and Despair 
In Judas' s bosom, till so strong it grew 
That all his stretch'd and racked Entrails were 
Conquer'd with tortures, and in sunder flew : 
His Body split, and through that cruel wound 
Pour'd his more barbarous bowels on the ground. 

292. 
Thus from this Prison his black Spirit ran 
Into as black a Jail, prepair'd for it 
Full in the center of Damnation ; 
Where now it raves in chains at Satan* s feet : 

Enforc'd the pois'nous flames he spews, to drink. 

O that all Traitors would 0/ Judas think f 




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NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



NOTES AND ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Stanza 4, 'iiWd* - belched. 
St. 16, * Sahfogimdssis ' i- Savageness. 
St 47» ' mains ' i- manes. 
St. 6x, * Phrygian Monarch ' = Midas. 
St 70, * Airmgimms ' i- msly. 
St 77, 'jhwing* i- robbiiig, cansing to flow. 
St 90, 'hmnchtd* - hunched. 
St. lOOk ' condaunt * i- condescension. 
St X04, 'bilhing,* See on St. 4. 
St X09, ' antiehs ' * grotesque figures : i^, ' Cants' — 
see Qlostaiial Index, s.v, : ih. ' Comisha ' s cornices. 



St XX3. *politur€' - polishing. 

St zz8, ' Catasiro^hi'-'^ce Glossarial Index for an 
anecdote iUustzativc of this odd use of the word. 

St 164, ' Two hundred thousand Pounds ' - Charles i. 

St. 9x9. * Paranyw^'-^wat Glosaarial Index for 
iUustnition& 

St aaz. * derives* «> oonununicates. 
St 933, ' woe ' as woo. So st 959. 
St 955, 'EjulaOan ' i- lamentation. 
St 967, * ominous ' s omen-sounding. See Glossarial 
Index, j.v. G. 




END OF VOL. I. 



(9 




THOMAS AND ARCHIBALD CONSTABLE, PRINTERS TO HER MAJESTY. 



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^ lOAN DEPT. 

Reoewrt boo'b ^'^'b^'^Priod tod«edi.e. 
. wDiett to immediate recmll. 




■t^