第3章
BetwixttheserockiePillarsGABRIELsatChiefofth"AngelicGuards，awaitingnight；
Abouthimexercis"dHeroicGamesTh"unarmedYouthofHeav"n，butnighathandCelestialArmourie，Shields，Helmes，andSpearesHunghighwithDiamondflaming，andwithGold。
ThithercameURIEL，glidingthroughtheEevenOnaSunbeam，swiftasashootingStarrInAUTUMNthwartsthenight，whenvaporsfir"dImpresstheAir，andshewstheMarinerFromwhatpointofhisCompasstobewareImpetuouswinds:hethusbeganinhaste。
GABRIEL，totheethycoursbyLothathgiv"nChargeandstrictwatchthattothishappieplaceNoevilthingapproachorenterin；
ThisdayathighthofNooncametomySpheareASpirit，zealous，asheseem"d，toknowMoreofth"Almightiesworks，andchieflyManGodslatestImage:Idescrib"dhiswayBentallonspeed，andmarkthisAerieGate；
ButintheMountthatliesfromEDENNorth，Wherehefirstlighted，soondiscerndhislooksAlienfromHeav"n，withpassionsfoulobscur"d:
Mineeyepursu"dhimstill，butundershadeLostsightofhim；oneofthebanishtcrewIfear，hathventur"dfromthedeep，toraiseNewtroubles；himthycaremustbetofind。
TowhomthewingedWarriourthusreturnd:
URIEL，nowonderifthyperfetsight，AmidtheSunsbrightcirclewherethousitst，Seefarrandwide:inatthisGatenonepassThevigilancehereplac"t，butsuchascomeWellknownfromHeav"n；andsinceMeridianhourNoCreaturethence:ifSpiritofothersort，Sominded，haveoreleapttheseearthieboundsOnpurpose，hardthouknowstittoexcludeSpiritualsubstancewithcorporealbarr。
ButifwithinthecircuitofthesewalksInwhatsoevershapehelurk，ofwhomThoutelst，bymorrowdawningIshallknow。
Sopromis"dhee，andURIELtohischargeReturndonthatbrightbeam，whosepointnowraisdBorehimslopedownwardtotheSunnowfall"nBeneathth"AZORES；whithertheprimeOrb，Incrediblehowswift，hadthitherrowl"dDiurnal，orthislessvolubilEarthByshorterflighttoth"East，hadlefthimthereArrayingwithreflectedPurpleandGoldTheCloudsthatonhisWesternThroneattend:
NowcamestillEevningon，andTwilightgrayHadinhersoberLiverieallthingsclad；
Silenceaccompanied，forBeastandBird，TheytothirgrassieCouch，thesetothirNestsWereslunk，allbutthewakefulNightingale；
Sheallnightlongheramorousdescantsung；
Silencewaspleas"d:nowglow"dtheFirmamentWithlivingSaphirs:HESPERUSthatledThestarrieHost，rodebrightest，tilltheMoonRisingincloudedMajestie，atlengthApparentQueenunvaildherpeerlesslight，Ando"rethedarkherSilverMantlethrew。
WhenADAMthustoEVE:FairConsort，th"hourOfnight，andallthingsnowretir"dtorestMindusoflikerepose，sinceGodhathsetLabourandrest，asdayandnighttomenSuccessive，andthetimelydewofsleepNowfallingwithsoftslumbrousweightinclinesOureye-lids；otherCreaturesalldaylongRoveidleunimploid，andlessneedrest；
ManhathhisdailyworkofbodyormindAppointed，whichdeclareshisDignitie，AndtheregardofHeav"nonallhiswaies；
WhileotherAnimalsunactiverange，AndofthirdoingsGodtakesnoaccount。
TomorrowerefreshMorningstreaktheEastWithfirstapproachoflight，wemustberis"n，Andatourpleasantlabour，toreformYonflourieArbors，yonderAlliesgreen，Ourwalksatnoon，withbranchesovergrown，Thatmockourscantmanuring，andrequireMorehandsthenourstolopthirwantongrowth:
ThoseBlossomsalso，andthosedroppingGumms，Thatliebestrowneunsightlyandunsmooth，Askriddance，ifwemeantotreadwithease；
Meanwhile，asNaturewills，Nightbidsusrest。
TowhomthusEVEwithperfetbeautyadornd。
MyAuthorandDisposer，whatthoubidstUnargu"dIobey；soGodordains，GodisthyLaw，thoumine:toknownomoreIswomanshappiestknowledgeandherpraise。
WiththeeconversingIforgetalltime，Allseasonsandthirchange，allpleasealike。
Sweetisthebreathofmorn，herrisingsweet，WithcharmofearliestBirds；pleasanttheSunWhenfirstonthisdelightfulLandhespreadsHisorientBeams，onherb，tree，fruit，andflour，Glistringwithdew；fragrantthefertilearthAftersoftshowers；andsweetthecomingonOfgratefulEevningmilde，thensilentNightWiththishersolemnBirdandthisfairMoon，AndthesetheGemmsofHeav"n，herstarrietrain:
ButneitherbreathofMornwhensheascendsWithcharmofearliestBirds，norrisingSunOnthisdelightfulland，norherb，fruit，floure，Glistringwithdew，norfragranceaftershowers，NorgratefulEveningmild，norsilentNightWiththishersolemnBird，norwalkbyMoon，OrglitteringStarr-lightwithouttheeissweet。
Butwherforeallnightlongshinethese，forwhomThisglorioussight，whensleephathshutalleyes?
TowhomourgeneralAncestorrepli"d。
DaughterofGodandMan，accomplishtEVE，Thosehavethircoursetofinish，roundtheEarth，BymorrowEevning，andfromLandtoLandInorder，thoughtoNationsyetunborn，Ministringlightprepar"d，theysetandrise；
LeasttotaldarknessshouldbyNightregaineHeroldpossession，andextinguishlifeInNatureandallthings，whichthesesoftfiresNotonlyenlighten，butwithkindlyheateOfvariousinfluencefomentandwarme，Temperornourish，orinpartsheddownThirstellarvertueonallkindsthatgrowOnEarth，madeherebyaptertoreceivePerfectionfromtheSunsmorepotentRay。
Thesethen，thoughunbeheldindeepofnight，Shinenotinvain，northink，thoughmenwerenone，Thatheav"nwouldwantspectators，Godwantpraise；
MillionsofspiritualCreatureswalktheEarthUnseen，bothwhenwewake，andwhenwesleep:
AllthesewithceaslesspraisehisworksbeholdBothdayandnight:howoftenfromthesteepOfechoingHillorThickethaveweheardCelestialvoicestothemidnightair，Sole，orresponsiveeachtoothersnoteSingingthirgreatCreator:oftinbandsWhiletheykeepwatch，ornightlyroundingwalkWithHeav"nlytouchofinstrumentalsoundsInfullharmonicnumberjoind，thirsongsDividethenight，andliftourthoughtstoHeaven。
Thustalkinghandinhandalonetheypass"dOntothirblissfulBower；itwasaplaceChos"nbythesovranPlanter，whenhefram"dAllthingstomansdelightfuluse；theroofeOfthickestcovertwasinwovenshadeLaurelandMirtle，andwhathighergrewOffirmandfragrantleaf；oneithersideACANTHUS，andeachodorousbushieshrubFenc"duptheverdantwall；eachbeauteousflour，IRISallhues，Roses，andGessaminRear"dhighthirflourishtheadsbetween，andwroughtMosaic；underfoottheViolet，Crocus，andHyacinthwithrichinlayBroiderdtheground，morecolour"dthenwithstoneOfcostliestEmblem:otherCreaturehereBeast，Bird，Insect，orWormdurstenternone；
Suchwasthiraweofman。InshadierBowerMoresacredandsequesterd，thoughbutfeignd，PANorSILVANUSneverslept，norNymph，NorFAUNUShaunted。HereincloserecessWithFlowers，Garlands，andsweet-smellingHerbsEspousedEVEdecktfirstherNuptialBed，Andheav"nlyQuirestheHymenaeansung，WhatdaythegenialAngeltoourSireBroughtherinnakedbeautymoreadorn"d，MorelovelythenPANDORA，whomtheGodsEndowdwithallthirgifts，andOtoolikeInsadevent，whentotheunwiserSonOfJAPHETbroughtbyHERMES，sheensnar"dMankindwithherfairelooks，tobeaveng"dOnhimwhohadstoleJOVESauthenticfire。
ThusatthirshadieLodgearriv"d，bothstood，Bothturnd，andunderop"nSkieador"dTheGodthatmadebothSkie，Air，Earth&；Heav"nWhichtheybeheld，theMoonsresplendentGlobeAndstarriePole:Thoualsomad"sttheNight，MakerOmnipotent，andthoutheDay，WhichweinourappointedworkimploydHavefinishthappieinourmutualhelpAndmutuallove，theCrownofallourblissOrdain"dbythee，andthisdeliciousplaceForustoolarge，wherethyabundancewantsPartakers，anduncroptfallstotheground。
Butthouhastpromis"dfromustwoaRaceTofilltheEarth，whoshallwithusextollThygoodnessinfinite，bothwhenwewake，Andwhenweseek，asnow，thygiftofsleep。
Thissaidunanimous，andotherRitesObservingnone，butadorationpureWhichGodlikesbest，intothirinmostbowerHandedtheywent；andeas"dtheputtingoffThesetroublesomdisguiseswhichweewear，Straitsidebysidewerelaid，norturndIweeneADAMfromhisfairSpouse，norEVEtheRitesMysteriousofconnubialLoverefus"d:
WhateverHypocritesausterelytalkOfpuritieandplaceandinnocence，DefamingasimpurewhatGoddeclaresPure，andcommandstosom，leavesfreetoall。
OurMakerbidsincrease，whobidsabstainButourDestroyer，foetoGodandMan?
HaileweddedLove，mysteriousLaw，truesourceOfhumanofspring，soleproprietie，InParadiseofallthingscommonelse。
Bytheeadulterouslustwasdriv"nfrommenAmongthebestialherdstoraunge，bytheeFoundedinReason，Loyal，Just，andPure，Relationsdear，andalltheCharitiesOfFather，Son，andBrotherfirstwereknown。
Farrbeit，thatIshouldwritetheesinorblame，Orthinktheeunbefittingholiestplace，PerpetualFountainofDomesticsweets，WhoseBedisundefil"dandchastpronounc"t，Present，orpast，asSaintsandPatriarchsus"d。
HereLovehisgoldenshaftsimploies，herelightsHisconstantLamp，andwaveshispurplewings，Reignshereandrevels；notintheboughtsmileOfHarlots，loveless，joyless，unindeard，Casualfruition，norinCourtAmoursMixtDance，orwantonMask，orMidnightBal，OrSerenate，whichthestarv"dLoversingsTohisproudfair，bestquittedwithdisdain。
TheselulldbyNightingalesimbraceingslept，AndonthirnakedlimbstheflourieroofShowrdRoses，whichtheMornrepair"d。Sleepon，Blestpair；andOyethappiestifyeseekNohappierstate，andknowtoknownomore。
Nowhadnightmeasur"dwithhershaddowieConeHalfwayupHillthisvastSublunarVault，AndfromthirIvoriePorttheCherubimForthissuingatth"accustomdhourstoodarmdTothirnightwatchesinwarlikeParade，WhenGABRIELtohisnextinpowerthusspake。
UZZIEL，halfthesedrawoff，andcoasttheSouthWithstrictestwatch；theseotherwheeltheNorth，OurcircuitmeetsfullWest。AsflametheypartHalfwheelingtotheShield，halftotheSpear。
Fromthese，twostrongandsuttleSpiritshecalldThatneerhimstood，andgavethemthusincharge。
ITHURIELandZEPHON，withwingdspeedSearchthroughthisGarden，leavunsearchtnonook，ButchieflywherethosetwofairCreaturesLodge，Nowlaidperhapsasleepsecureofharme。
ThisEevningfromtheSun"sdeclinearriv"dWhotellsofsominfernalSpiritseenHitherwardbent(whocouldhavethought?)escap"dThebarrsofHell，onerrandbadnodoubt:
Suchwhereyefind，seisefast，andhitherbring。
Sosaying，onheledhisradiantFiles，Daz"lingtheMoon；thesetotheBowerdirectInsearchofwhomtheysought:himtheretheyfoundSquatlikeaToad，closeattheeareofEVE；
AssayingbyhisDevilisharttoreachTheOrgansofherFancie，andwiththemforgeIllusionsashelist，PhantasmsandDreams，Orif，inspiringvenom，hemighttaintTh"animalSpiritsthatfrompurebloodariseLikegentlebreathsfromRiverspure，thenceraiseAtleastdistemperd，discontentedthoughts，Vainhopes，vainaimes，inordinatedesiresBlownupwithhighconceitsingendringpride。
HimthusintentITHURIELwithhisSpearTouch"dlightly；fornofalshoodcanendureTouchofCelestialtemper，butreturnsOfforcetoitsownlikeness:uphestartsDiscoverdandsurpriz"d。AswhenasparkLightsonaheapofnitrousPowder，laidFitfortheTunsomMagazintostoreAgainstarumordWarr，theSmuttiegraineWithsuddenblazediffus"d，inflamestheAire:
SostartedupinhisownshapetheFiend。
BacksteptthosetwofairAngelshalfamaz"dSosuddentobeholdthegrieslieKing；
Yetthus，unmovdwithfear，accosthimsoon。
WhichofthoserebellSpiritsadjudg"dtoHellCom"stthou，escap"dthyprison，andtransform"d，WhysatstthoulikeanenemieinwaiteHerewatchingattheheadofthesethatsleep?
KnowyenotthensaidSATAN，filldwithscorn，Knowyenotme?yeknewmeoncenomateForyou，theresittingwhereyedurstnotsoare；
Nottoknowmeearguesyourselvesunknown，Thelowestofyourthrong；orifyeknow，Whyaskye，andsuperfluousbeginYourmessage，liketoendasmuchinvain?
TowhomthusZEPHON，answeringscornwithscorn。
Thinknot，revoltedSpirit，thyshapethesame，Orundiminishtbrightness，tobeknownAswhenthoustoodstinHeav"nuprightandpure；
ThatGloriethen，whenthounomorewastgood，Departedfromthee，andthouresembl"stnowThysinandplaceofdoomobscureandfoule。
Butcome，forthou，besure，shaltgiveaccountTohimwhosentus，whosechargeistokeepThisplaceinviolable，andthesefromharm。
SospaketheCherube，andhisgraverebukeSevereinyouthfulbeautie，addedgraceInvincible:abashttheDevilstood，Andfelthowawfulgoodnessis，andsawVertueinhershapehowlovly，saw，andpin"dHisloss；butchieflytofindhereobservdHislustrevisiblyimpar"d；yetseemdUndaunted。IfImustcontend，saidhe，Bestwiththebest，theSendernotthesent，Orallatonce；moregloriewillbewonn，Orlessbelost。Thyfear，saidZEPHONbold，WillsaveustrialwhattheleastcandoeSingleagainsttheewicked，andthenceweak。
TheFiendrepli"dnot，overcomewithrage；
ButlikeaproudSteedreind，wenthautieon，Chaumpinghisironcurb:tostriveorflieHehelditvain；awefromabovehadquelldHisheart，notelsedismai"d。NowdrewtheynighThewesternpoint，wherethosehalf-roundingguardsJustmet，&；closingstoodinsquadronjoindAwaitingnextcommand。TowhomthirChiefGABRIELfromtheFrontthuscalldaloud。
Ofriends，IhearthetreadofnimblefeetHastingthisway，andnowbyglimpsdiscerneITHURIELandZEPHONthroughtheshade，AndwiththemcomesathirdofRegalport，Butfadedsplendorwan；whobyhisgateAndfiercedemeanourseemsthePrinceofHell，Notlikelytoparthencewithoutcontest；
Standfirm，forinhislookdefiancelours。
Hescarcehadended，whenthosetwoapproachdAndbriefrelatedwhomtheybrought，wherfound，Howbusied，inwhatformandposturecoucht。
TowhomwithsternregardthusGABRIELspake。
Whyhastthou，SATAN，broketheboundsprescrib"dTothytransgressions，anddisturbdthechargeOfothers，whoapprovenottotransgressBythyexample，buthavepowerandrightToquestionthyboldentranceonthisplace；
Imploi"ditseemstoviolatesleep，andthoseWhosedwellingGodhathplantedhereinbliss?
TowhomthusSATANwithcontemptuousbrow。
GABRIEL，thouhadstinHeav"nth"esteemofwise，AndsuchIheldthee；butthisquestionasktPutsmeindoubt。Livestherwholoveshispain?
Whowouldnot，findingway，breakloosefromHell，Thoughthitherdoomd?Thouwouldstthyself，nodoubt，AndboldlyventuretowhateverplaceFarthestfrompain，wherethoumightsthopetochangeTormentwithease，&；soonestrecompenceDolewithdelight，whichinthisplaceIsought；
Totheenoreason；whoknowstonlygood，Butevilhastnottri"d:andwiltobjectHiswillwhoboundus?lethimsurerbarrHisIronGates，ifheintendsourstayInthatdarkdurance:thusmuchwhatwasaskt。
Therestistrue，theyfoundmewheretheysay；
Butthatimpliesnotviolenceorharme。
Thusheeinscorn。ThewarlikeAngelmov"d，Disdainfullyhalfsmilingthusrepli"d。
OlossofoneinHeav"ntojudgeofwise，SinceSATANfell，whomfollieoverthrew，Andnowreturnshimfromhisprisonscap"t，GravelyindoubtwhethertoholdthemwiseOrnot，whoaskwhatboldnessbroughthimhitherUnlicenc"tfromhisboundsinHellprescrib"d；
SowisehejudgesittoflyfrompainHowever，andtoscapehispunishment。
Sojudgethoustill，presumptuous，tillthewrauth，Whichthouincurr"stbyflying，meetthyflightSeavenfold，andscourgethatwisdombacktoHell，Whichtaughttheeyetnobetter，thatnopainCanequalangerinfiniteprovok"t。
Butwhereforethoualone?whereforewiththeeCamenotallHellbrokeloose?ispaintothemLesspain，lesstobefled，orthouthentheyLesshardietoendure?courageousChief，Thefirstinflightfrompain，had"stthoualleg"dTothydesertedhostthiscauseofflight，Thousurelyhadstnotcomesolefugitive。
TowhichtheFiendthusanswerdfrowningstern。
NotthatIlessendure，orshrinkfrompain，InsultingAngel，wellthouknowstIstoodThyfiercest，wheninBatteltothyaideTheblastingvoliedThundermadeallspeedAndsecondedthyelsenotdreadedSpear。
Butstillthywordsatrandom，asbefore，ArguethyinexperiencewhatbehoovesFromhardassaiesandillsuccessespastAfaithfulLeader，nottohazardallThroughwayesofdangerbyhimselfuntri"d。
Itherefore，IalonefirstundertookTowingthedesolateAbyss，andspieThisnewcreatedWorld，whereofinHellFameisnotsilent，hereinhopetofindBetterabode，andmyafflictedPowersTosettlehereonEarth，orinmidAire；
ThoughforpossessionputtotryoncemoreWhatthouandthygayLegionsdareagainst；
WhoseeasierbusinessweretoservethirLordHighupinHeav"n，withsongstohymnehisThrone，Andpractis"ddistancestocringe，notfight。
TowhomthewarriourAngelsoonrepli"d。
Tosayandstraitunsay，pretendingfirstWisetofliepain，professingnexttheSpie，ArguesnoLeader，butalyartrac"t，SATAN，andcouldstthoufaithfuladd?Oname，Osacrednameoffaithfulnessprofan"d！
Faithfultowhom?tothyrebelliouscrew?
ArmieofFiends，fitbodytofithead；
Wasthisyourdisciplineandfaithingag"d，Yourmilitaryobedience，todissolveAllegeancetoth"acknowledg"dPowersupream?
Andthouslyhypocrite，whonowwouldstseemPatronofliberty，whomorethenthouOncefawn"d，andcring"d，andservillyador"dHeav"nsawfulMonarch?whereforebutinhopeTodispossesshim，andthyselftoreigne?
ButmarkwhatIarreedetheenow，avant；
Fliethitherwhencethoufledst:iffromthishoureWithinthesehallowdlimitsthouappeer，Backtoth"infernalpitIdragtheechaind，AndSealetheeso，ashenceforthnottoscorneThefacilgatesofhelltooslightlybarrd。
Sothreatn"dhee，butSATANtonothreatsGaveheed，butwaxingmoreinragerepli"d。
ThenwhenIamthycaptivetalkofchaines，ProudlimitarieCherube，buterethenFarrheavierloadthyselfexpecttofeelFrommyprevailingarme，thoughHeavensKingRideonthywings，andthouwiththyCompeers，Us"dtotheyoak，draw"sthistriumphantwheelsInprogressthroughtherodeofHeav"nStar-pav"d。
Whilethushespake，th"AngelicSquadronbrightTurndfieriered，sharpninginmoonedhornesThirPhalanx，andbegantohemmhimroundWithportedSpears，asthickaswhenafieldOfCERESripeforharvestwavingbendsHerbeardedGroveofears，whichwaythewindSwayesthem；thecarefulPlowmandoubtingstandsLeastonthethreshingfloorehishopefulsheavesProvechaff。Onth"othersideSATANallarm"dCollectingallhismightdilatedstood，LikeTENERIFForATLASunremov"d:
HisstaturereachttheSkie，andonhisCrestSathorrorPlum"d；norwantedinhisgraspeWhatseemdbothSpearandShield:nowdreadfuldeedsMighthaveensu"d，noronelyParadiseInthiscommotion，buttheStarrieCopeOfHeav"nperhaps，oralltheElementsAtleasthadgontorack，disturbdandtorneWithviolenceofthisconflict，hadnotsoonTh"EternaltopreventsuchhorridfrayHungforthinHeav"nhisgoldenScales，yetseenBetwixtASTREAandtheSCORPIONsigne，Whereinallthingscreatedfirstheweighd，ThependulousroundEarthwithballanc"tAireIncounterpoise，nowpondersallevents，BattelsandRealms:intheseheputtwoweightsThesequeleachofpartingandoffight；
Thelatterquickupflew，andkicktthebeam；
WhichGABRIELspying，thusbespaketheFiend。
SATAN，Iknowthystrength，andthouknowstmine，Neitherourownbutgiv"n；whatfolliethenToboastwhatArmscandoe，sincethinenomoreThenHeav"npermits，normine，thoughdoubldnowTotrampletheeasmire:forprooflookup，AndreadthyLotinyoncelestialSignWherethouartweigh"d，&；shownhowlight，howweak，Ifthouresist。TheFiendlooktupandknewHismountedscalealoft:normore；butfledMurmuring，andwithhimfledtheshadesofnight。TheEndoftheFourthBookParadiseLost-Book5ParadiseLostbyJohnMiltonBook5NowMornherrosiestepsinth"EasternClimeAdvancing，sow"dtheEarthwithOrientPearle，WhenADAMwak"t，socustomd，forhissleepWasAerielight，frompuredigestionbred，Andtemperatvaporsbland，whichth"onlysoundOfleavesandfumingrills，AURORA"sfan，Lightlydispers"d，andtheshrillMatinSongOfBirdsoneverybough；somuchthemoreHiswonderwastofindunwak"ndEVE
WithTressesdiscompos"d，andglowingCheek，Asthroughunquietrest:heonhissideLeaninghalf-rais"d，withlooksofcordialLoveHungoverherenamour"d，andbeheldBeautie，whichwhetherwakingorasleep，ShotforthpeculiarGraces；thenwithvoiceMilde，aswhenZEPHYRUSonFLORAbreathes，Herhandsofttouching，whisperdthus。AwakeMyfairest，myespous"d，mylatestfound，Heav"nslastbestgift，myevernewdelight，Awake，themorningshines，andthefreshfieldCallsus，welosetheprime，tomarkhowspringOurtendedPlants，howblowstheCitronGrove，WhatdropstheMyrrhe，&；whatthebalmieReed，HowNaturepaintshercolours，howtheBeeSitsontheBloomextractingliquidsweet。
Suchwhisperingwak"dher，butwithstartl"deyeOnADAM，whomimbracing，thusshespake。
OSoleinwhommythoughtsfindallrepose，MyGlorie，myPerfection，gladIseeThyface，andMornreturn"d，forIthisNight，SuchnighttillthisIneverpass"d，havedream"d，Ifdream"d，notasIoftamwont，ofthee，Worksofdaypass"t，ormorrowsnextdesigne，Butofoffenceandtrouble，whichmymindKnewnevertillthisirksomnight；methoughtCloseatmineearonecall"dmeforthtowalkWithgentlevoice，Ithoughtitthine；itsaid，WhysleepstthouEVE?nowisthepleasanttime，Thecool，thesilent，savewheresilenceyieldsTothenight-warblingBird，thatnowawakeTunessweetesthislove-labor"dsong；nowreignesFullOrb"dtheMoon，andwithmorepleasinglightShadowiesetsoffthefaceofthings；invain，Ifnoneregard；Heav"nwakeswithallhiseyes，Whomtobeholdbutthee，Naturesdesire，Inwhosesightallthingsjoy，withravishmentAttractedbythybeautystilltogaze。
Iroseasatthycall，butfoundtheenot；
TofindtheeIdirectedthenmywalk；
Andon，methought，aloneIpass"dthroughwaysThatbroughtmeonasuddentotheTreeOfinterdictedKnowledge:fairitseem"d，MuchfairertomyFanciethenbyday:
AndasIwondringlookt，besideitstoodOneshap"d&；wing"dlikeoneofthosefromHeav"nByusoftseen；hisdewielocksdistill"dAmbrosia；onthatTreehealsogaz"d；
AndOfairPlant，saidhe，withfruitsurcharg"d，Deignsnonetoeasethyloadandtastethysweet，NorGod，norMan；isKnowledgesodespis"d?
Orenvie，orwhatreserveforbidstotaste?
Forbidwhowill，noneshallfrommewithholdLongerthyofferdgood，whyelsesethere?
Thissaidhepaus"dnot，butwithventrousArmeHepluckt，hetasted；meedamphorrorchil"dAtsuchboldwordsvouchtwithadeedsobold:
Buthethusoverjoy"d，OFruitDivine，Sweetofthyself，butmuchmoresweetthuscropt，Forbidd"nhere，itseems，asonelyfitForGods，yetabletomakeGodsofMen:
AndwhynotGodsofMen，sincegood，themoreCommunicated，moreabundantgrowes，TheAuthornotimpair"d，buthonourdmore?
Here，happieCreature，fairAngelicEVE，Partakethoualso；happiethoughthouart，Happierthoumaystbe，worthiercanstnotbe:
Tastethis，andbehenceforthamongtheGodsThyselfaGoddess，nottoEarthconfind，ButsomtimesintheAir，aswee，somtimesAscendtoHeav"n，bymeritthine，andseeWhatlifetheGodslivethere，andsuchlivethou。
Sosaying，hedrewnigh，andtomeheld，EventomymouthofthatsamefruitheldpartWhichhehadpluckt；thepleasantsavouriesmellSoquick"ndappetite，thatI，methought，Couldnotbuttaste。ForthwithuptotheCloudsWithhimIflew，andunderneathbeheldTheEarthoutstretchtimmense，aprospectwideAndvarious:wondringatmyflightandchangeTothishighexaltation；suddenlyMyGuidewasgon，andI，methought，sunkdown，Andfellasleep；butOhowgladIwak"dTofindthisbutadream！ThusEVEherNightRelated，andthusADAManswerdsad。
BestImageofmyselfanddearerhalf，ThetroubleofthythoughtsthisnightinsleepAffectsmeequally；norcanIlikeThisuncouthdream，ofevilsprungIfear；
Yetevilwhence?intheecanharbournone，Createdpure。ButknowthatintheSouleAremanylesserFacultiesthatserveReasonaschief；amongtheseFansienextHerofficeholds；ofallexternalthings，WhichthefivewatchfulSensesrepresent，SheformsImaginations，Aerieshapes，WhichReasonjoyningordisjoyning，framesAllwhatweaffirmorwhatdeny，andcallOurknowledgeoropinion；thenretiresIntoherprivateCellwhenNaturerests。
OftinherabsencemimicFansiewakesToimitateher；butmisjoyningshapes，Wildeworkproducesoft，andmostindreams，Illmatchingwordsanddeedslongpastorlate。
SomsuchresemblancesmethinksIfindOfourlastEevningstalk，inthisthydream，Butwithadditionstrange；yetbenotsad。
EvilintothemindofGodorManMaycomeandgo，sounapprov"d，andleaveNospotorblamebehind:WhichgivesmehopeThatwhatinsleepthoudidstabhorrtodream，Wakingthouneverwiltconsenttodo。
Benotdisheart"ndthen，norcloudthoselooksThatwonttobemorechearfulandsereneThenwhenfairMorningfirstsmilesontheWorld，AndletustoourfreshimploymentsriseAmongtheGroves，theFountains，andtheFloursThatopennowthirchoicestbosom"dsmellsReservdfromnight，andkeptfortheeinstore。
SocheardhehisfairSpouse，andshewascheard，ButsilentlyagentletearletfallFromeithereye，andwip"dthemwithherhaire；
Twootherpreciousdropsthatreadystood，Eachinthirchrystalsluce，heeeretheyfellKiss"dasthegracioussignsofsweetremorseAndpiousawe，thatfeardtohaveoffended。
Soallwascleard，andtotheFieldtheyhaste。
Butfirstfromundershadiearborousroof，SoonastheyforthwerecometoopensightOfday-spring，andtheSun，whoscarceuprisenWithwheelsyethov"ringo"retheOceanbrim，Shotparaleltotheearthhisdewieray，DiscoveringinwideLantskipalltheEastOfParadiseandEDENShappiePlains，Lowlytheybow"dadoring，andbeganThirOrisons，eachMorningdulypaidInvariousstyle，forneithervariousstyleNorholyrapturewantedtheytopraiseThirMaker，infitstrainspronounc"torsungUnmeditated，suchprompteloquenceFlowdfromthirlips，inProseornumerousVerse，MoretuneablethenneededLuteorHarpToaddmoresweetness，andtheythusbegan。
Thesearethygloriousworks，Parentofgood，Almightie，thinethisuniversalFrame，Thuswondrousfair；thyselfhowwondrousthen！
Unspeakable，whositstabovetheseHeavensTousinvisibleordimlyseenInthesethylowestworks，yetthesedeclareThygoodnessbeyondthought，andPowerDivine:
Speakyeewhobestcantell，yeSonsoflight，Angels，foryeebeholdhim，andwithsongsAndchoralsymphonies，DaywithoutNight，CirclehisThronerejoycing，yeeinHeav"n，OnEarthjoynallyeeCreaturestoextollHimfirst，himlast，himmidst，andwithoutend。
FairestofStarrs，lastinthetrainofNight，Ifbetterthoubelongnottothedawn，Surepledgeofday，thatcrownstthesmilingMornWiththybrightCirclet，praisehiminthySpheareWhiledayarises，thatsweethourofPrime。
ThouSun，ofthisgreatWorldbothEyeandSoule，AcknowledgehimthyGreater，soundhispraiseInthyeternalcourse，bothwhenthouclimb"st，AndwhenhighNoonhastgaind，&；whenthoufallst。
Moon，thatnowmeetsttheorientSun，nowfli"stWiththefixtStarrs，fixtinthirOrbthatflies，AndyeefiveotherwandringFiresthatmoveInmysticDancenotwithoutSong，resoundHispraise，whooutofDarknesscall"dupLight。
Aire，andyeElementstheeldestbirthOfNaturesWomb，thatinquaternionrunPerpetualCircle，multiform；andmixAndnourishallthings，letyourceaslesschangeVarietoourgreatMakerstillnewpraise。
YeMistsandExhalationsthatnowriseFromHillorsteamingLake，duskieorgrey，TilltheSunpaintyourfleecieskirtswithGold，InhonourtotheWorldsgreatAuthorrise，WhethertodeckwithCloudstheuncolourdskie，OrwetthethirstieEarthwithfallingshowers，Risingorfallingstilladvancehispraise。
HispraiseyeWinds，thatfromfourQuartersblow，Breathsoftorloud；andwaveyourtops，yePines，WitheveryPlant，insignofWorshipwave。
Fountainsandyee，thatwarble，asyeflow，Melodiousmurmurs，warblingtunehispraise。
JoynvoicesallyelivingSouls，yeBirds，ThatsinginguptoHeavenGateascend，Bearonyourwingsandinyournoteshispraise；
YeethatinWatersglide，andyeethatwalkTheEarth，andstatelytread，orlowlycreep；
WitnessifIbesilent，MornorEeven，ToHill，orValley，Fountain，orfreshshadeMadevocalbymySong，andtaughthispraise。
HailuniversalLord，bebounteousstillTogiveusonelygood；andifthenightHavegatheredaughtofevilorconceald，Disperseit，asnowlightdispelsthedark。
Sopray"dtheyinnocent，andtothirthoughtsFirmpeacerecoverdsoonandwontedcalm。
OntothirmorningsruralworktheyhasteAmongsweetdewesandflours；whereanyrowOfFruit-treesoverwoodiereachdtoofarrThirpamperdboughes，andneededhandstocheckFruitlessimbraces:ortheyledtheVineTowedherElm；shespous"dabouthimtwinesHermariageablearms，andwithherbringsHerdowrth"adoptedClusters，toadornHisbarrenleaves。ThemthusimploidbeheldWithpittieHeav"nshighKing，andtohimcall"dRAPHAEL，thesociableSpirit，thatdeign"dTotravelwithTOBIAS，andsecur"dHismarriagewiththeseaventimes-weddedMaid。
RAPHAEL，saidhee，thouhear"stwhatstironEarthSATANfromHellscap"tthroughthedarksomGulfHathraisdinParadise，andhowdisturbdThisnightthehumanpair，howhedesignesInthematoncetoruinallmankind。
Gotherefore，halfthisdayasfriendwithfriendConversewithADAM，inwhatBowreorshadeThoufind"sthimfromtheheatofNoonretir"d，Torespithisday-labourwithrepast，Orwithrepose；andsuchdiscoursebringon，Asmayadvisehimofhishappiestate，Happinessinhispowerleftfreetowill，LefttohisownfreeWill，hisWillthoughfree，Yetmutable；whencewarnehimtobewareHeswervenottoosecure:tellhimwithallHisdanger，andfromwhom，whatenemieLatefallnhimselffromHeav"n，isplottingnowThefallofothersfromlikestateofbliss；
Byviolence，no，forthatshallbewithstood，Butbydeceitandlies；thislethimknow，LeastwilfullytransgressinghepretendSurprisal，unadmonisht，unforewarnd。
Sospaketh"EternalFather，andfulfilldAllJustice:nordelaidthewingedSaintAfterhischargereceivd，butfromamongThousandCelestialArdors，wherehestoodVaildwithhisgorgeouswings，upspringinglightFlewthroughthemidstofHeav"n；th"angelicQuiresOneachhandparting，tohisspeedgavewayThroughallth"Empyrealroad；tillattheGateOfHeav"narriv"d，thegateself-opendwideOngoldenHingesturning，asbyworkDivinethesov"ranArchitecthadfram"d。
Fromhence，nocloud，or，toobstructhissight，Starrinterpos"d，howeversmallhesees，NotunconformtoothershiningGlobes，EarthandtheGard"nofGod，withCedarscrowndAboveallHills。AswhenbynighttheGlassOfGALILEO，lessassur"d，observesImagindLandsandRegionsintheMoon:
OrPilotfromamidsttheCYCLADES
DELOSorSAMOSfirstappeeringkennsAcloudyspot。DownthitherproneinflightHespeeds，andthroughthevastEtherealSkieSailesbetweenworlds&；worlds，withsteddiewingNowonthepolarwindes，thenwithquickFannWinnowsthebuxomAir；tillwithinsoareOfTowringEagles，toalltheFowlesheseemsAPHOENIX，gaz"dbyall，asthatsoleBirdWhentoenshrinehisreliquesintheSun"sBrightTemple，toAEGYPTIANTHEB"Sheflies。
Atonceonth"EasterncliffofParadiseHelights，andtohispropershapereturnsASeraphwingd；sixwingshewore，toshadeHislineamentsDivine；thepairthatcladEachshoulderbroad，camemantlingo"rehisbrestWithregalOrnament；themiddlepairGirtlikeaStarrieZonehiswaste，androundSkirtedhisloinesandthigheswithdownieGoldAndcoloursdiptinHeav"n；thethirdhisfeetShaddowdfromeitherheelewithfeatherdmaileSkie-tinctur"dgrain。LikeMAIA"Ssonhestood，AndshookhisPlumes，thatHeav"nlyfragrancefilldThecircuitwide。StraitknewhimallthebandsOfAngelsunderwatch；andtohisstate，Andtohismessagehighinhonourrise；
Foronsommessagehightheyguessdhimbound。
ThirglitteringTentshepassd，andnowiscomeIntotheblissfulfield，throughGrovesofMyrrhe，AndflouringOdours，Cassia，Nard，andBalme；
AWildernessofsweets；forNaturehereWantondasinherprime，andplaidatwillHerVirginFancies，pouringforthmoresweet，Wildeaboveruleorart；enormousbliss。
HimthroughthespicieForrestonwardcomADAMdiscernd，asinthedorehesatOfhiscooleBowre，whilenowthemountedSunShotdowndirecthisfervidRaies，towarmeEarthsinmostwomb，morewarmththenADAMneed；
AndEVEwithin，dueatherhourprepar"dFordinnersavouriefruits，oftastetopleaseTrueappetite，andnotdisrelishthirstOfnectarousdraughtsbetween，frommilkiestream，BerrieorGrape:towhomthusADAMcall"d。
HastehitherEVE，andworththysightbeholdEastwardamongthoseTrees，whatgloriousshapeComesthiswaymoving；seemsanotherMornRis"nonmid-noon；somgreatbehestfromHeav"nTousperhapshebrings，andwillvoutsafeThisdaytobeourGuest。Butgoewithspeed，Andwhatthystorescontain，bringforthandpoureAbundance，fittohonourandreceiveOurHeav"nlystranger；wellwemayaffordOurgiversthirowngifts，andlargebestowFromlargebestowd，whereNaturemultipliesHerfertilgrowth，andbydisburd"ninggrowsMorefruitful，whichinstructsusnottospare。
TowhomthusEVE。ADAM，earthshallowdmould，OfGodinspir"d，smallstorewillserve，wherestore，Allseasons，ripeforusehangsonthestalk；
SavewhatbyfrugalstoringfirmnessgainsTonourish，andsuperfluousmoistconsumes:
ButIwillhasteandfromeachboughandbreak，EachPlant&；juciestGourdwillplucksuchchoiceToentertainourAngelguest，asheeBeholdingshallconfessthathereonEarthGodhathdispensthisbountiesasinHeav"n。
Sosaying，withdispatchfullooksinhasteSheturns，onhospitablethoughtsintentWhatchoicetochusefordelicaciebest，Whatorder，socontriv"dasnottomixTastes，notwelljoynd，inelegant，butbringTasteaftertasteupheldwithkindliestchange，Bestirsherthen，andfromeachtenderstalkWhateverEarthall-bearingMotheryeildsInINDIAEastorWest，ormiddleshoareInPONTUSorthePUNICCoast，orwhereALCINOUSreign"d，fruitofallkindes，incoate，Rough，orsmoothrin"d，orbeardedhusk，orshellShegathers，Tributelarge，andontheboardHeapswithunsparinghand；fordrinktheGrapeShecrushes，inoffensivemoust，andmeathesFrommanyaberrie，andfromsweetkernelsprestShetempersdulcetcreams，northesetoholdWantsherfitvesselspure，thenstrewsthegroundWithRoseandOdoursfromtheshrubunfum"d。
MeanwhileourPrimitivegreatSire，tomeetHisgod-likeGuest，walksforth，withoutmoretrainAccompani"dthenwithhisowncompleatPerfections，inhimselfwasallhisstate，MoresolemnthenthetediouspompthatwaitsOnPrinces，whenthirrichRetinuelongOfHorsesled，andGroomsbesmeardwithGoldDazlesthecroud，andsetsthemallagape。
NeererhispresenceADAMthoughnotawd，Yetwithsubmissapproachandreverencemeek，AstoasuperiorNature，bowinglow，Thussaid。NativeofHeav"n，forotherplaceNonecanthenHeav"nsuchgloriousshapecontain；
SincebydescendingfromtheThronesabove，ThosehappieplacesthouhastdeigndawhileTowant，andhonourthese，voutsafewithusTwoonely，whoyetbysov"rangiftpossessThisspaciousground，inyondershadieBowreTorest，andwhattheGardenchoicestbearsTositandtaste，tillthismeridianheatBeover，andtheSunmorecooledecline。
WhomthustheAngelicVertueanswerdmilde。
ADAM，Ithereforecame，norartthousuchCreated，orsuchplacehastheretodwell，Asmaynotoftinvite，thoughSpiritsofHeav"nTovisitthee；leadonthenwherethyBowreOreshades；forthesemid-hours，tillEevningriseIhaveatwill。SototheSilvanLodgeTheycame，thatlikePOMONA"SArboursmil"dWithflouretsdeck"tandfragrantsmells；butEVE
Undeckt，savewithherselfmorelovelyfairThenWood-Nymph，orthefairestGoddessfeign"dOfthreethatinMountIDAnakedstrove，StoodtoentertainherguestfromHeav"n；novaileSheeneeded，Vertue-proof，nothoughtinfirmeAlterdhercheek。OnwhomtheAngelHAILE
Bestowd，theholysalutationus"dLongaftertoblestMARIE，secondEVE。
HaileMotherofMankind，whosefruitfulWombShallfilltheWorldmorenumerouswiththySonsThenwiththesevariousfruitstheTreesofGodHaveheap"dthisTable。Rais"dofgrassieterfThirTablewas，andmossieseatshadround，AndonherampleSquarefromsidetosideAllAUTUMNpil"d，thoughSPRINGandAUTUMNhereDanc"dhandinhand。Awhilediscoursetheyhold；
NofearlestDinnercoole；whenthusbeganOurAuthour。Heav"nlystranger，pleasetotasteThesebountieswhichourNourisher，fromwhomAllperfetgoodunmeasur"dout，descends，Tousforfoodandfordelighthathcaus"dTheEarthtoyeild；unsavouriefoodperhapsTospiritualNatures；onlythisIknow，ThatoneCelestialFathergivestoall。
TowhomtheAngel。Thereforewhathegives(Whosepraisebeeversung)tomaninpartSpiritual，mayofpurestSpiritsbefoundNoingratefulfood:andfoodalikethosepureIntelligentialsubstancesrequireAsdothyourRational；andbothcontainWithinthemeverylowerfacultieOfsense，wherebytheyhear，see，smell，touch，taste，Tastingconcoct，digest，assimilate，Andcorporealtoincorporealturn。
Forknow，whateverwascreated，needsTobesustaindandfed；ofElementsThegrosserfeedsthepurer，earththesea，EarthandtheSeafeedAir，theAirthoseFiresEthereal，andaslowestfirsttheMoon；
Whenceinhervisageroundthosespots，unpurg"dVapoursnotyetintohersubstanceturnd。
NordoththeMoonnonourishmentexhaleFromhermoistContinenttohigherOrbes。
TheSunthatlightimpartstoall，receivesFromallhisalimentalrecompenceInhumidexhalations，andatEvenSupswiththeOcean:thoughinHeav"ntheTreesOflifeambrosialfrutagebear，andvinesYeildNectar，thoughfromofftheboughseachMornWebrushmellifluousDewes，andfindthegroundCover"dwithpearlygrain:yetGodhathhereVariedhisbountysowithnewdelights，AsmaycomparewithHeaven；andtotasteThinknotIshallbenice。Sodowntheysat，Andtothirviandsfell，norseeminglyTheAngel，norinmist，thecommonglossOfTheologians，butwithkeendispatchOfrealhunger，andconcoctiveheateTotransubstantiate；whatredounds，transpiresThroughSpiritswithease；norwonder；ifbyfireOfsootycoaltheEmpiricAlchimistCanturn，orholdsitpossibletoturnMetalsofdrossiestOretoperfetGoldAsfromtheMine。MeanwhileatTableEVE
Ministerdnaked，andthirflowingcupsWithpleasantliquorscrown"d:OinnocenceDeservingParadise！ifever，then，ThenhadtheSonsofGodexcusetohavebinEnamour"datthatsight；butinthoseheartsLoveunlibidinousreign"d，norjealousieWasunderstood，theinjur"dLoversHell。
Thuswhenwithmeats&；drinkstheyhadsuffic"d，Notburd"ndNature，suddenmindaroseInADAM，nottoletth"occasionpassGivenhimbythisgreatConferencetoknowOfthingsabovehisWorld，andofthirbeingWhodwellinHeav"n，whoseexcellencehesawTranscendhisownsofarr，whoseradiantformsDivineeffulgence，whosehighPowersofarExceededhuman，andhiswaryspeechThustoth"EmpyrealMinisterhefram"d。
InhabitantwithGod，nowknowIwellThyfavour，inthishonourdonetoman，Underwhoselowlyroofthouhastvoutsaf"tToenter，andtheseearthlyfruitstotaste，FoodnotofAngels，yetacceptedso，AsthatmorewillinglythoucouldstnotseemAtHeav"nshighfeaststohavefed:yetwhatcompare?
TowhomthewingedHierarchrepli"d。
OADAM，oneAlmightieis，fromwhomAllthingsproceed，anduptohimreturn，Ifnotdeprav"dfromgood，createdallSuchtoperfection，onefirstmatterall，Indu"dwithvariousforms，variousdegreesOfsubstance，andinthingsthatlive，oflife；
Butmorerefin"d，morespiritous，andpure，Asneerertohimplac"torneerertendingEachinthirseveralactiveSphearsassignd，Tillbodyuptospiritwork，inboundsProportiondtoeachkind。SofromtherootSpringslighterthegreenstalk，fromthencetheleavesMoreaerie，lastthebrightconsummatefloureSpiritsodorousbreathes:floursandthirfruitMansnourishment，bygradualscalesublim"dTovitalSpiritsaspire，toanimal，Tointellectual，givebothlifeandsense，Fansieandunderstanding，whencethesouleReasonreceives，andreasonisherbeing，Discursive，orIntuitive；discourseIsoftestyours，thelattermostisours，Differingbutindegree，ofkindthesame。
Wondernotthen，whatGodforyousawgoodIfIrefusenot，butconvert，asyou，Topropersubstance；timemaycomewhenmenWithAngelsmayparticipate，andfindNoinconvenientDiet，nortoolightFare:
AndfromthesecorporalnutrimentsperhapsYourbodiesmayatlastturnalltoSpiritImprov"dbytractoftime，andwingdascendEthereal，aswee，ormayatchoiceHereorinHeav"nlyParadisesdwell；
Ifyebefoundobedient，andretainUnalterablyfirmhisloveentireWhoseprogenieyouare。MeanwhileenjoyYourfillwhathappinessthishappiestateCancomprehend，incapableofmore。
TowhomthePatriarchofmankindrepli"d。
Ofavourablespirit，propitiousguest，WellhastthoutaughtthewaythatmightdirectOurknowledge，andthescaleofNaturesetFromcentertocircumference，whereonIncontemplationofcreatedthingsBystepswemayascendtoGod。Butsay，Whatmeantthatcautionjoind，IFYEBEFOUND
OBEDIENT?canweewantobediencethenTohim，orpossiblyhislovedesertWhoformdusfromthedust，andplac"dushereFulltotheutmostmeasureofwhatblissHumandesirescanseekorapprehend?
TowhomtheAngel。SonofHeav"nandEarth，Attend:Thatthouarthappie，owetoGod；
Thatthoucontinu"stsuch，owetothyself，Thatis，tothyobedience；thereinstand。
Thiswasthatcautiongiv"nthee；beadvis"d。
Godmadetheeperfet，notimmutable；
Andgoodhemadethee，buttopersevereHeleftitinthypower，ordaindthywillBynaturefree，notover-rul"dbyFateInextricable，orstrictnecessity；
Ourvoluntarieserviceherequires，Notournecessitated，suchwithhimFindesnoacceptance，norcanfind，forhowCanhearts，notfree，betri"dwhethertheyserveWillingorno，whowillbutwhattheymustByDestinie，andcannootherchoose?
Myselfandallth"AngelicHostthatstandInsightofGodenthron"d，ourhappiestateHold，asyouyours，whileourobedienceholds；
Onothersuretynone；freelyweserve。
Becauseweefreelylove，asinourwillToloveornot；inthiswestandorfall:
Andsomarefall"n，todisobediencefall"n，AndsofromHeav"ntodeepestHell；OfallFromwhathighstateofblissintowhatwoe！
TowhomourgreatProgenitor。ThywordsAttentive，andwithmoredelightedeareDivineinstructer，Ihaveheard，thenwhenCherubicSongsbynightfromneighbouringHillsAerealMusicsend:norknewInotTobebothwillanddeedcreatedfree；
YetthatwenevershallforgettoloveOurmaker，andobeyhimwhosecommandSingle，isyetsojust，myconstantthoughtsAssur"dmeandstillassure:thoughwhatthoutellstHathpastinHeav"n，somdoubtwithinmemove，Butmoredesiretohear，ifthouconsent，Thefullrelation，whichmustneedsbestrange，WorthyofSacredsilencetobeheard；
Andwehaveyetlargeday，forscarcetheSunHathfinishthalfhisjourney，andscarcebeginsHisotherhalfinthegreatZoneofHeav"n。
ThusADAMmaderequest，andRAPHAEL
Aftershortpauseassenting，thusbegan。
Highmatterthouinjoinstme，Oprimeofmen，Sadtaskandhard，forhowshallIrelateTohumansenseth"invisibleexploitsOfwarringSpirits；howwithoutremorseTheruinofsomanygloriousonceAndperfetwhiletheystood；howlastunfouldThesecretsofanotherworld，perhapsNotlawfultoreveal?yetforthygoodThisisdispenc"t，andwhatsurmountsthereachOfhumansense，Ishalldelineateso，Bylik"ningspiritualtocorporalforms，Asmayexpressthembest，thoughwhatifEarthBebuttheshaddowofHeav"n，andthingsthereinEachtootherlike，morethenonearthisthought?
Asyetthisworldwasnot，andCHAOSwildeReigndwheretheseHeav"nsnowrowl，whereEarthnowrestsUponherCenterpois"d，whenonaday(ForTime，thoughinEternitie，appli"dTomotion，measuresallthingsdurableBypresent，past，andfuture)onsuchdayAsHeav"nsgreatYearbringsforth，th"EmpyrealHostOfAngelsbyImperialsummonscall"d，Innumerablebeforeth"AlmightiesThroneForthwithfromalltheendsofHeav"nappeerdUnderthirHierarchsinordersbrightTenthousandthousandEnsigneshighadvanc"d，Standards，andGonfalonstwixtVanandReareStreameintheAire，andfordistinctionserveOfHierarchies，ofOrders，andDegrees；
OrinthirglitteringTissuesbearimblaz"dHolyMemorials，actsofZealeandLoveRecordedeminent。ThuswheninOrbesOfcircuitinexpressibletheystood，OrbwithinOrb，theFatherinfinite，Bywhominblissimbosom"dsattheSon，AmidstasfromaflamingMount，whoseopBrightnesshadmadeinvisible，thusspake。
HearallyeAngels，ProgenieofLight，Thrones，Dominations，Princedoms，Vertues，Powers，HearmyDecree，whichunrevok"tshallstand。
ThisdayIhavebegotwhomIdeclareMyonelySon，andonthisholyHillHimhaveanointed，whomyenowbeholdAtmyrighthand；yourHeadIhimappoint；
AndbymySelfhavesworntohimshallbowAllkneesinHeav"n，andshallconfesshimLord:
UnderhisgreatVice-gerentReignabideUnitedasoneindividualSouleForeverhappie:himwhodisobeyesMeedisobeyes，breaksunion，andthatdayCastoutfromGodandblessedvision，fallsIntoutterdarkness，deepingulft，hisplaceOrdaindwithoutredemption，withoutend。
Sospaketh"Omnipotent，andwithhiswordsAllseemdwellpleas"d，allseem"d，butwerenotall。
Thatday，asothersolemdayes，theyspentInsonganddanceaboutthesacredHill，Mysticaldance，whichyonderstarrieSpheareOfPlanetsandoffixtinallherWheelesResemblesnearest，mazesintricate，Eccentric，intervolv"d，yetregularThenmost，whenmostirregulartheyseem:
AndinthirmotionsharmonieDivineSosmoothshercharmingtones，thatGodsownearListensdelighted。Eevningapproachd(ForwehavealsoourEevningandourMorn，Weoursforchangedelectable，notneed)
ForthwithfromdancetosweetrepasttheyturnDesirous，allinCirclesastheystood，Tablesareset，andonasuddenpil"dWithAngelsFood，andrubiedNectarflows:
InPearl，inDiamond，andmassieGold，FruitofdeliciousVines，thegrowthofHeav"n。
Theyeat，theydrink，andwithrefectionsweetArefill"d，beforeth"allbounteousKing，whoshowrdWithcopioushand，rejoycinginthirjoy。
NowwhenambrosialNightwithCloudsexhal"dFromthathighmountofGod，whencelight&；shadeSpringboth，thefaceofbrightestHeav"nhadchangdTogratefulTwilight(forNightcomesnotthereIndarkerveile)androseatDewsdispos"dAllbuttheunsleepingeyesofGodtorest，WideoverallthePlain，andwiderfarrThenallthisglobousEarthinPlainoutspred，(SucharetheCourtsofGod)Th"AngelicthrongDisperstinBandsandFilesthirCampextendBylivingStreamsamongtheTreesofLife，Pavilionsnumberless，andsuddenreard，CelestialTabernacles，wheretheysleptFanndwithcooleWinds，savethosewhointhircourseMelodiousHymnsaboutthesovranThroneAlternateallnightlong:butnotsowak"dSATAN，socallhimnow，hisformernameIsheardnomoreHeav"n；heofthefirst，IfnotthefirstArch-Angel，greatinPower，Infavourandpraeeminence，yetfraughtWithenvieagainsttheSonofGod，thatdayHonourdbyhisgreatFather，andproclaimdMESSIAHKinganointed，couldnotbeareThroughpridethatsight，andthoughthimselfimpaird。
Deepmalicethenceconceiving&；disdain，SoonasmidnightbroughtontheduskiehoureFriendliesttosleepandsilence，heresolv"dWithallhisLegionstodislodge，andleaveUnworshipt，unobey"dtheThronesupreamContemptuous，andhisnextsubordinateAwak"ning，thustohiminsecretspake。
SleepstthouCompaniondear，whatsleepcancloseThyeye-lids?andremembrestwhatDecreeOfyesterday，solatehathpastthelipsOfHeav"nsAlmightie。ThoutomethythoughtsWastwont，Iminetotheewaswonttoimpart；
Bothwakingwewereone；howthencannowThysleepdissent?newLawsthouseestimpos"d；
NewLawsfromhimwhoreigns，newmindsmayraiseInuswhoserve，newCounsels，todebateWhatdoubtfulmayensue，moreinthisplaceToutterisnotsafe。AssemblethouOfallthoseMyriadswhichweleadthechief；
Tellthemthatbycommand，ereyetdimNightHershadowieCloudwithdraws，Iamtohaste，AndallwhoundermethirBannerswave，HomewardwithflyingmarchwherewepossessTheQuartersoftheNorth，theretoprepareFitentertainmenttoreceiveourKingThegreatMESSIAH，andhisnewcommands，WhospeedilythroughalltheHierarchiesIntendstopasstriumphant，andgiveLaws。
SospakethefalseArch-Angel，andinfus"dBadinfluenceintoth"unwariebrestOfhisAssociate；heetogethercalls，Orseveralonebyone，theRegentPowers，UnderhimRegent，tells，ashewastaught，ThatthemostHighcommanding，nowereNight，NoweredimNighthaddisincumberdHeav"n，ThegreatHierarchalStandardwastomove；
Tellsthesuggestedcause，andcastsbetweenAmbiguouswordsandjealousies，tosoundOrtaintintegritie；butallobey"dThewontedsignal，andsuperiorvoiceOfthirgreatPotentate；forgreatindeedHisname，andhighwashisdegreeinHeav"n；
Hiscount"nance，astheMorningStarrthatguidesThestarrieflock，allur"dthem，andwithlyesDrewafterhimthethirdpartofHeav"nsHost:
Meanwhileth"Eternaleye，whosesightdiscernesAbstrusestthoughts，fromforthhisholyMountAndfromwithinthegoldenLampsthatburneNightlybeforehim，sawwithoutthirlightRebellionrising，sawinwhom，howspredAmongthesonsofMorn，whatmultitudesWerebandedtoopposehishighDecree；
AndsmilingtohisonelySonthussaid。
Son，thouinwhommygloryIbeholdInfullresplendence，Heirofallmymight，NeerlyitnowconcernesustobesureOfourOmnipotence，andwithwhatArmsWemeantoholdwhatancientlyweclaimOfDeitieorEmpire，suchafoeIsrising，whointendstoerecthisThroneEqualtoours，throughoutthespaciousNorth；
Norsocontent，hathinhisthoughttotrieInbattel，whatourPoweris，orourright。
Letusadvise，andtothishazarddrawWithspeedwhatforceisleft，andallimployInourdefence，lestunawaresweloseThisourhighplace，ourSanctuarie，ourHill。
TowhomtheSonwithcalmaspectandcleerLight"ningDivine，ineffable，serene，Madeanswer。MightieFather，thouthyfoesJustlyhastinderision，andsecureLaugh"statthirvaindesignesandtumultsvain，MattertomeeofGlory，whomthirhateIllustrates，whentheyseeallRegalPowerGiv"nmetoquellthirpride，andineventKnowwhetherIbedextroustosubdueThyRebels，orbefoundtheworstinHeav"n。
SospaketheSon，butSATANwithhisPowersFarrwasadvanc"tonwingedspeed，anHostInnumerableastheStarrsofNight，OrStarrsofMorning，Dew-drops，whichtheSunImpearlsoneveryleafandeveryflouer。
Regionstheypass"d，themightieRegenciesOfSeraphimandPotentatesandThronesInthirtripleDegrees，RegionstowhichAllthyDominion，ADAM，isnomoreThenwhatthisGardenistoalltheEarth，AndalltheSea，fromoneentiregloboseStretchtintoLongitude；whichhavingpass"dAtlengthintothelimitsoftheNorthTheycame，andSATANtohisRoyalseatHighonaHill，farblazing，asaMountRais"donaMount，withPyramidsandTowrsFromDiamondQuarrieshew"n，&；RocksofGold，ThePalaceofgreatLUCIFER，(socallThatStructureintheDialectofmenInterpreted)whichnotlongafter，heeAffectingallequalitywithGod，InimitationofthatMountwhereonMESSIAHwasdeclar"dinsightofHeav"n，TheMountainoftheCongregationcall"d；
Forthitherheassembl"dallhisTrain，PretendingsocommandedtoconsultAboutthegreatreceptionofthirKing，Thithertocome，andwithcalumniousArtOfcounterfetedtruththusheldthirears。
Thrones，Dominations，Princedomes，Vertues，Powers，IfthesemagnificTitlesyetremainNotmeerlytitular，sincebyDecreeAnothernowhathtohimselfingross"tAllPower，anduseclipstunderthenameOfKinganointed，forwhomallthishasteOfmidnightmarch，andhurriedmeetinghere，ThisonelytoconsulthowwemaybestWithwhatmaybedevis"dofhonoursnewReceivehimcomingtoreceivefromusKnee-tributeyetunpaid，prostrationvile，Toomuchtoone，butdoublehowendur"d，Tooneandtohisimagenowproclaim"d?
ButwhatifbettercounselsmighterectOurmindsandteachustocastoffthisYoke?
Willyesubmityournecks，andchusetobendThesuppleknee?yewillnot，ifItrustToknowyeright，orifyeknowyourselvesNativesandSonsofHeav"npossestbeforeBynone，andifnotequalall，yetfree，Equallyfree；forOrdersandDegreesJarrnotwithliberty，butwellconsist。
WhocaninreasonthenorrightassumeMonarchieoversuchaslivebyrightHisequals，ifinpowerandsplendorless，Infreedomeequal?orcanintroduceLawandEdictonus，whowithoutlawErrenot，muchlessforthistobeourLord，Andlookforadorationtoth"abuseOfthoseImperialTitleswhichassertOurbeingordain"dtogovern，nottoserve?
ThusfarrhisbolddiscoursewithoutcontrouleHadaudience，whenamongtheSeraphimABDIEL，thenwhomnonewithmorezealeador"dTheDeitie，anddivinecommandsobei"d，Stoodup，andinaflameofzealesevereThecurrentofhisfurythusoppos"d。
Oargumentblasphemous，falseandproud！
WordswhichnoeareevertohearinHeav"nExpected，leastofallfromthee，ingrateInplacethyselfsohighabovethyPeeres。
CanstthouwithimpiousobloquiecondemneThejustDecreeofGod，pronounc"tandsworn，ThattohisonlySonbyrightendu"dWithRegalScepter，everySouleinHeav"nShallbendtheknee，andinthathonourdueConfesshimrightfulKing?unjustthousaistFlatlyunjust，tobindewithLawsthefree，AndequaloverequalstoletReigne，Oneoverallwithunsucceededpower。
ShaltthougiveLawtoGod，shaltthoudisputeWithhimthepointsoflibertie，whomadeTheewhatthouart，&；formdthePow"rsofHeav"nSuchashepleasd，andcircumscrib"dthirbeing?
Yetbyexperiencetaughtweknowhowgood，Andofourgood，andofourdignitieHowprovidentheis，howfarrfromthoughtTomakeusless，bentrathertoexaltOurhappiestateunderoneHeadmoreneerUnited。Buttograntittheeunjust，ThatequaloverequalsMonarchReigne:
Thyselfthoughgreat&；gloriousdostthoucount，OrallAngelicNaturejoindinone，EqualtohimbegottenSon，bywhomAsbyhisWordthemightyFathermadeAllthings，ev"nthee，andalltheSpiritsofHeav"nByhimcreatedinthirbrightdegrees，CrowndthemwithGlory，&；tothirGlorynam"dThrones，Dominations，Princedoms，Vertues，PowersEssentialPowers，norbyhisReignobscur"d，Butmoreillustriousmade，sincehetheHeadOneofournumberthusreduc"tbecomes，HisLawsourLaws，allhonourtohimdoneReturnsourown。Ceasethenthisimpiousrage，Andtemptnotthese；buthast"ntoappeaseTh"incensedFather，andth"incensedSon，WhilePardonmaybefoundintimebesought。
SospaketheferventAngel，buthiszealeNoneseconded，asoutofseasonjudg"d，Orsingularandrash，whereatrejoic"dTh"Apostat，andmorehaughtythusrepli"d。
Thatwewereformdthensaistthou?&；theworkOfsecondariehands，bytasktransferdFromFathertohisSon?strangepointandnew！
Doctrinwhichwewouldknowwhencelearnt:whosawWhenthiscreationwas?rememberstthouThymaking，whiletheMakergavetheebeing?
Weknownotimewhenwewerenotasnow；
Knownonebeforeus，self-begot，self-rais"dByourownquick"ningpower，whenfatalcourseHadcircl"dhisfullOrbe，thebirthmatureOfthisournativeHeav"n，EtherealSons。
Ourpuissanceisourown，ourownrighthandShallteachushighestdeeds，byprooftotryWhoisourequal:thenthoushaltbeholdWhetherbysupplicationweintendAddress，andtobegirtth"AlmightyThroneBeseechingorbesieging。Thisreport，Thesetidingscarrietoth"anointedKing；
Andfly，ereevilinterceptthyflight。
Hesaid，andasthesoundofwatersdeepHoarcemurmurecho"dtohiswordsapplauseThroughtheinfiniteHost，norlessforthatTheflamingSeraphfearless，thoughaloneEncompass"droundwithfoes，thusanswerdbold。
OalienatefromGod，Ospiritaccurst，Forsak"nofallgood；IseethyfallDetermind，andthyhaplesscrewinvolv"dInthisperfidiousfraud，contagionspredBothofthycrimeandpunishment:henceforthNomorebetroubl"dhowtoquittheyokeOfGodsMESSIAH；thoseindulgentLawsWillnotbenowvoutsaf"t，otherDecreesAgainsttheearegonforthwithoutrecall；
ThatGoldenScepterwhichthoudidstrejectIsnowanIronRodtobruiseandbreakeThydisobedience。Wellthoudidstadvise，YetnotforthyadviseorthreatsIflyThesewickedTentsdevoted，leastthewrauthImpendent，ragingintosuddenflameDistinguishnot:forsoonexpecttofeelHisThunderonthyhead，devouringfire。
Thenwhocreatedtheelamentinglearne，Whenwhocanuncreatetheethoushaltknow。
SospaketheSeraphABDIELfaithfulfound，Amongthefaithless，faithfulonlyhee；
Amonginnumerablefalse，unmov"d，Unshak"n，unseduc"d，unterrifi"dHisLoyaltiehekept，hisLove，hisZeale；
Nornumber，norexamplewithhimwroughtToswervefromtruth，orchangehisconstantmindThoughsingle。Fromamidstthemforthhepassd，Longwaythroughhostilescorn，whichhesusteindSuperior，norofviolencefear"daught；
Andwithretortedscornhisbackheturn"dOnthoseproudTowrstoswiftdestructiondoom"d。TheEndoftheFifthBookParadiseLost-Book6ParadiseLostbyJohnMiltonBook6AllnightthedreadlessAngelunpursu"dThroughHeav"nswideChampainheldhisway，tillMorn，Wak"tbythecirclingHours，withrosiehandUnbarr"dthegatesofLight。ThereisaCaveWithintheMountofGod，fastbyhisThrone，WherelightanddarknessinperpetualroundLodgeanddislodgebyturns，whichmakesthroughHeav"nGratefulvicissitude，likeDayandNight；
Lightissuesforth，andattheotherdoreObsequiousdarknessenters，tillherhoureToveiletheHeav"n，thoughdarknesstheremightwellSeemtwilighthere；andnowwentforththeMornSuchasinhighestHeav"n，arraydinGoldEmpyreal，frombeforehervanishtNight，ShotthroughwithorientBeams:whenallthePlainCoverdwiththickembatteldSquadronsbright，ChariotsandflamingArmes，andfierieSteedsReflectingblazeonblaze，firstmethisview:
Warrheperceav"d，warrinprocinct，andfoundAlreadyknownwhathefornewshadthoughtTohavereported:gladlythenhemixtAmongthosefriendlyPowerswhohimreceav"dWithjoyandacclamationsloud，thatoneThatofsomanyMyriadsfall"n，yetoneReturndnotlost:OntothesacredhillTheyledhimhighapplauded，andpresentBeforetheseatsupream；fromwhenceavoiceFrommidstaGoldenCloudthusmildewasheard。
ServantofGod，welldone，wellhastthoufoughtThebetterfight，whosinglehastmaintaindAgainstrevoltedmultitudestheCauseOfTruth，inwordmightierthentheyinArmes；
AndforthetestimonieofTruthhastbornUniversalreproach，farworsetobeareThenviolence:forthiswasallthycareTostandapprov"dinsightofGod，thoughWorldsJudg"dtheeperverse:theeasierconquestnowRemainsthee，aidedbythishostoffriends，BackonthyfoesmoreglorioustoreturnThenscorndthoudidstdepart，andtosubdueByforce，whoreasonforthirLawrefuse，RightreasonforthirLaw，andforthirKingMESSIAH，whobyrightofmeritReigns。
GoeMICHAELofCelestialArmiesPrince，AndthouinMilitaryprowessnextGABRIEL，leadforthtoBattelthesemySonsInvincible，leadforthmyarmedSaintsByThousandsandbyMillionsrang"dforfight；
EqualinnumbertothatGodlesscrewRebellious，themwithFireandhostileArmsFearlessassault，andtothebrowofHeav"nPursuingdrivethemoutfromGodandbliss，Intothirplaceofpunishment，theGulfOfTARTARUS，whichreadyopenswideHisfieryCHAOStoreceavethirfall。
SospaketheSovranvoice，andCloudsbeganTodarkenalltheHill，andsmoaktorowlInduskiewreathes，reluctantflames，thesigneOfwrauthawak"t:norwithlessdreadtheloudEtherealTrumpetfromonhighganblow:
AtwhichcommandthePowersMilitant，ThatstoodforHeav"n，inmightyQuadratejoyn"dOfUnionirresistible，mov"donInsilencethirbrightLegions，tothesoundOfinstrumentalHarmoniethatbreath"dHeroicArdortoadvent"rousdeedsUnderthirGod-likeLeaders，intheCauseOfGodandhisMESSIAH。OntheymoveIndissolublyfirm；norobviousHill，Norstreit"ningVale，norWood，norStreamdividesThirperfetranks；forhighabovethegroundThirmarchwas，andthepassiveAirupboreThirnimbletread；aswhenthetotalkindOfBirdsinorderlyarrayonwingCamesummondoverEDENtoreceiveThirnamesofthee；soovermanyatractOfHeav"ntheymarch"d，andmanyaProvincewideTenfoldthelengthofthisterrene:atlastFarrinth"HorizontotheNorthappeer"dFromskirttoskirtafierieRegion，stretchtInbattailousaspect，andneererviewBristl"dwithuprightbeamsinnumerableOfrigidSpears，andHelmetsthrong"d，andShieldsVarious，withboastfulArgumentportraid，ThebandedPowersofSATANhastingonWithfuriousexpedition；fortheyweendThatselfsamedaybyfight，orbysurprizeTowintheMountofGod，andonhisThroneTosettheenvierofhisState，theproudAspirer，butthirthoughtsprov"dfondandvainInthemidway:thoughstrangetousitseemdAtfirst，thatAngelshouldwithAngelwarr，Andinfiercehostingmeet，whowonttomeetSooftinFestivalsofjoyandloveUnanimous，assonsofonegreatSireHymningth"EternalFather:buttheshoutOfBattelnowbegan，andrushingsoundOfonsetendedsooneachmilderthought。
HighinthemidstexaltedasaGodTh"ApostatinhisSun-brightChariotsateIdolofMajestieDivine，enclos"dWithFlamingCherubim，andgoldenShields；
ThenlightedfromhisgorgeousThrone，fornow"TwixtHostandHostbutnarrowspacewasleft，Adreadfulinterval，andFronttoFrontPresentedstoodinterriblearrayOfhideouslength:beforethecloudieVan，Ontheroughedgeofbattelereitjoyn"d，SATANwithvastandhaughtiestridesadvanc"t，Cametowring，armdinAdamantandGold；
ABDIELthatsightendur"dnot，wherehestoodAmongthemightiest，bentonhighestdeeds，Andthushisownundauntedheartexplores。
OHeav"n！thatsuchresemblanceoftheHighestShouldyetremain，wherefaithandrealtieRemainnot；wherforeshouldnotstrength&；mightTherefailwhereVertuefails，orweakestproveWhereboldest；thoughtosightunconquerable?
Hispuissance，trustinginth"Almightie"saide，Imeantotry，whoseReasonIhavetri"dUnsoundandfalse；norisitaughtbutjust，ThathewhoindebateofTruthhathwon，ShouldwininArms，inbothdisputesalikeVictor；thoughbrutishthatcontestandfoule，WhenReasonhathtodealwithforce，yetsoMostreasonisthatReasonovercome。
Sopondering，andfromhisarmedPeersForthsteppingopposite，halfwayhemetHisdaringfoe，atthispreventionmoreIncens"t，andthussecurelyhimdefi"d。
Proud，artthoumet?thyhopewastohavereachtThehighthofthyaspiringunoppos"d，TheThroneofGodunguarded，andhissideAbandondattheterrorofthyPowerOrpotenttongue；fool，nottothinkhowvainAgainstth"OmnipotenttoriseinArms；
WhooutofsmallestthingscouldwithoutendHaverais"dincessantArmiestodefeatThyfolly；orwithsolitariehandReachingbeyondalllimit，atoneblowUnaidedcouldhavefinishtthee，andwhelmdThyLegionsunderdarkness；butthouseestAllarenotofthyTrain；therebewhoFaithPrefer，andPietietoGod，thoughthenTotheenotvisible，whenIaloneSeemdinthyWorlderroneoustodissentFromall:mySectthouseest，nowlearntoolateHowfewsomtimesmayknow，whenthousandserr。
WhomthegrandfoewithscornfuleyeaskanceThusanswerd。Illforthee，butinwishthoureOfmyrevenge，firstsoughtforthoureturnstFromflight，seditiousAngel，toreceaveThymeritedreward，thefirstassayOfthisrighthandprovok"t，sincefirstthattongueInspir"dwithcontradictiondurstopposeAthirdpartoftheGods，inSynodmetThirDeitiestoassert，whowhiletheyfeelVigourDivinewithinthem，canallowOmnipotencetonone。ButwellthoucomstBeforethyfellows，ambitioustowinFrommesomPlume，thatthysuccessmayshowDestructiontotherest:thispausebetween(Unanswerdleastthouboast)tolettheeknow；
AtfirstIthoughtthatLibertieandHeav"nToheav"nlySouleshadbinallone；butnowIseethatmostthroughslothhadratherserve，MinistringSpirits，traindupinFeastandSong；
Suchhastthouarm"d，theMinstrelsieofHeav"n，Servilitiewithfreedomtocontend，Asboththirdeedscompar"dthisdayshallprove。
TowhominbriefthusABDIELsternrepli"d。