OfMansFirstDisobedience，andtheFruitOfthatForbiddenTree，whosemortaltastBroughtDeathintotheWorld，andallourwoe，WithlossofEDEN，tillonegreaterManRestoreus，andregaintheblissfulSeat，SingHeav'nlyMuse，thatonthesecrettopOfOREB，orofSINAI，didstinspireThatShepherd，whofirsttaughtthechosenSeed，IntheBeginninghowtheHeav'nsandEarthRoseoutofCHAOS:OrifSIONHillDelighttheemore，andSILOA'SBrookthatflow'dFastbytheOracleofGod；IthenceInvokethyaidtomyadventrousSong，ThatwithnomiddleflightintendstosoarAboveth'AONIANMount，whileitpursuesThingsunattemptedyetinProseorRhime。
　　AndchieflyThouOSpirit，thatdostpreferBeforeallTemplesth'uprightheartandpure，Instructme，forThouknow'st；ThoufromthefirstWastpresent，andwithmightywingsoutspreadDove-likesatstbroodingonthevastAbyssAndmad'stitpregnant:WhatinmeisdarkIllumine，whatislowraiseandsupport；
　　ThattothehighthofthisgreatArgumentImayassertth'EternalProvidence，AndjustifiethewayesofGodtomen。
　　Sayfirst，forHeav'nhidesnothingfromthyviewNorthedeepTractofHell，sayfirstwhatcauseMov'dourGrandParentsinthathappyState，Favour'dofHeav'nsohighly，tofalloffFromtheirCreator，andtransgresshisWillForonerestraint，LordsoftheWorldbesides?
　　Whofirstseduc'dthemtothatfowlrevolt?
　　Th'infernalSerpent；heitwas，whoseguileStirdupwithEnvyandRevenge，deceiv'dTheMotherofMankinde，whattimehisPrideHadcasthimoutfromHeav'n，withallhisHostOfRebelAngels，bywhoseaidaspiringTosethimselfinGloryabovehisPeers，Hetrustedtohaveequal'dthemostHigh，Ifheoppos'd；andwithambitiousaimAgainsttheThroneandMonarchyofGodRais'dimpiousWarinHeav'nandBattelproudWithvainattempt。HimtheAlmightyPowerHurldheadlongflamingfromth'EtherealSkieWithhideousruineandcombustiondownTobottomlessperdition，theretodwellInAdamantineChainsandpenalFire，Whodurstdefieth'OmnipotenttoArms。
　　NinetimestheSpacethatmeasuresDayandNightTomortalmen，hewithhishorridcrewLayvanquisht，rowlinginthefieryGulfeConfoundedthoughimmortal:ButhisdoomReserv'dhimtomorewrath；fornowthethoughtBothoflosthappinessandlastingpainTormentshim；roundhethrowshisbalefuleyesThatwitness'dhugeafflictionanddismayMixtwithobdurateprideandstedfasthate:
　　AtonceasfarasAngelskennheviewsThedismalSituationwasteandwilde，ADungeonhorrible，onallsidesroundAsonegreatFurnaceflam'd，yetfromthoseflamesNolight，butratherdarknessvisibleServ'donlytodiscoversightsofwoe，Regionsofsorrow，dolefulshades，wherepeaceAndrestcanneverdwell，hopenevercomesThatcomestoall；buttorturewithoutendStillurges，andafieryDeluge，fedWithever-burningSulphurunconsum'd:
　　SuchplaceEternalJusticehadprepar'dForthoserebellious，heretheirPrisonordain'dInutterdarkness，andtheirportionsetAsfarremov'dfromGodandlightofHeav'nAsfromtheCenterthricetoth'utmostPole。
　　Ohowunliketheplacefromwhencetheyfell！
　　Therethecompanionsofhisfall，o'rewhelm'dWithFloodsandWhirlwindsoftempestuousfire，Hesoondiscerns，andweltringbyhissideOnenexthimselfinpower，andnextincrime，LongafterknowninPALESTINE，andnam'dBEELZEBUB。Towhomth'Arch-Enemy，AndthenceinHeav'ncall'dSatan，withboldwordsBreakingthehorridsilencethusbegan。
　　Ifthoubeesthe；ButOhowfall'n！howchang'dFromhim，whointhehappyRealmsofLightCloth'dwithtranscendentbrightnesdidstoutshineMyriadsthoughbright:Ifhewhommutualleague，Unitedthoughtsandcounsels，equalhope，AndhazardintheGloriousEnterprize，Joyndwithmeonce，nowmiseryhathjoyndInequalruin:intowhatPitthouseestFromwhathighthfal'n，somuchthestrongerprovdHewithhisThunder:andtillthenwhoknewTheforceofthosedireArms?yetnotforthoseNorwhatthePotentVictorinhisrageCanelseinflictdoIrepentorchange，Thoughchang'dinoutwardlustre；thatfixtmindAndhighdisdain，fromsenceofinjur'dmerit，Thatwiththemightiestrais'dmetocontend，AndtothefiercecontentionbroughtalongInnumerableforceofSpiritsarm'dThatdurstdislikehisreign，andmepreferring，Hisutmostpowerwithadversepoweroppos'dIndubiousBattelonthePlainsofHeav'n，Andshookhisthrone。Whatthoughthefieldbelost?
　　Allisnotlost；theunconquerableWill，Andstudyofrevenge，immortalhate，Andcouragenevertosubmitoryield:
　　Andwhatiselsenottobeovercome?
　　ThatGlorynevershallhiswrathormightExtortfromme。TobowandsueforgraceWithsuppliantknee，anddeifiehispowerWhofromtheterrourofthisArmsolateDoubtedhisEmpire，thatwerelowindeed，ThatwereanignominyandshamebeneathThisdownfall；sincebyFatethestrengthofGodsAndthisEmpyrealsubstancecannotfail，SincethroughexperienceofthisgreateventInArmsnotworse，inforesightmuchadvanc't，WemaywithmoresuccessfulhoperesolveTowagebyforceorguileeternalWarrIrreconcileable，toourgrandFoe，Whonowtriumphs，andinth'excessofjoySolereigningholdstheTyrannyofHeav'n。
　　Sospaketh'ApostateAngel，thoughinpain，Vauntingaloud，butracktwithdeepdespare:
　　Andhimthusanswer'dsoonhisboldCompeer。
　　OPrince，OChiefofmanyThronedPowers，Thatledth'imbattelldSeraphimtoWarrUnderthyconduct，andindreadfuldeedsFearless，endanger'dHeav'nsperpetualKing；
　　AndputtoproofhishighSupremacy，Whetherupheldbystrength，orChance，orFate，ToowellIseeandruethedireevent，ThatwithsadoverthrowandfouldefeatHathlostusHeav'n，andallthismightyHostInhorribledestructionlaidthuslow，AsfarasGodsandHeav'nlyEssencesCanPerish:forthemindandspiritremainsInvincible，andvigoursoonreturns，ThoughallourGloryextinct，andhappystateHereswallow'dupinendlessmisery。
　　ButwhatifheourConquerour，whomInowOfforcebelieveAlmighty，sincenolessThensuchcouldhavorepow'rdsuchforceasours
　　HaveleftusthisourspiritandstrengthintireStronglytosufferandsupportourpains，Thatwemaysosufficehisvengefulire，OrdohimmightierserviceashisthrallsByrightofWarr，whate'rehisbusinessbeHereintheheartofHelltoworkinFire，OrdohisErrandsinthegloomyDeep；
　　WhatcanitthenavailthoughyetwefeelStrengthundiminisht，oreternalbeingToundergoeternalpunishment?
　　Wheretowithspeedywordsth'Arch-fiendreply'd。
　　Fall'nCherube，tobeweakismiserableDoingorSuffering:butofthisbesure，Todooughtgoodneverwillbeourtask，Butevertodoilloursoledelight，AsbeingthecontrarytohishighwillWhomweresist。IfthenhisProvidenceOutofourevilseektobringforthgood，Ourlabourmustbetopervertthatend，Andoutofgoodstilltofindmeansofevil；
　　Whichofttimesmaysucceed，soasperhapsShallgrievehim，ifIfailnot，anddisturbHisinmostcounselsfromtheirdestindaim。
　　ButseetheangryVictorhathrecall'dHisMinistersofvengeanceandpursuitBacktotheGatesofHeav'n:TheSulphurousHailShotafterusinstorm，oreblownhathlaidThefierySurge，thatfromthePrecipiceOfHeav'nreceiv'dusfalling，andtheThunder，Wing'dwithredLightningandimpetuousrage，Perhapshathspenthisshafts，andceasesnowTobellowthroughthevastandboundlessDeep。
　　Letusnotslipth'occasion，whetherscorn，OrsatiatefuryyielditfromourFoe。
　　SeestthouyondrearyPlain，forlornandwilde，Theseatofdesolation，voydoflight，SavewhattheglimmeringoftheselividflamesCastspaleanddreadful?ThitherletustendFromoffthetossingofthesefierywaves，Thererest，ifanyrestcanharbourthere，AndreassemblingourafflictedPowers，ConsulthowwemayhenceforthmostoffendOurEnemy，ourownlosshowrepair，HowovercomethisdireCalamity，WhatreinforcementwemaygainfromHope，Ifnotwhatresolutionfromdespare。
　　ThusSatantalkingtohisneerestMateWithHeadup-liftabovethewave，andEyesThatsparklingblaz'd，hisotherPartsbesidesProneontheFlood，extendedlongandlargeLayfloatingmanyarood，inbulkashugeAswhomtheFablesnameofmonstroussize，TITANIAN，orEARTH-BORN，thatwarr'donJOVE，BRIARIOSorTYPHON，whomtheDenByancientTARSUSheld，orthatSea-beastLEVIATHAN，whichGodofallhisworksCreatedhugestthatswimth'Oceanstream:
　　HimhaplyslumbringontheNORWAYfoamThePilotofsomesmallnight-founder'dSkiff，DeemingsomeIsland，oft，asSea-mentell，WithfixedAnchorinhisskalyrindMoorsbyhissideundertheLee，whileNightInveststheSea，andwishedMorndelayes:
　　SostretchtouthugeinlengththeArch-fiendlayChain'dontheburningLake，noreverthenceHadris'norheav'dhishead，butthatthewillAndhighpermissionofall-rulingHeavenLefthimatlargetohisowndarkdesigns，ThatwithreiteratedcrimeshemightHeaponhimselfdamnation，whilehesoughtEviltoothers，andenrag'dmightseeHowallhismaliceserv'dbuttobringforthInfinitegoodness，graceandmercyshewnOnManbyhimseduc't，butonhimselfTrebleconfusion，wrathandvengeancepour'd。
　　ForthwithuprightherearsfromoffthePoolHismightyStature；oneachhandtheflamesDrivnbackwardslopetheirpointingspires，&；rowldInbillows，leavei'th'midstahorridVale。
　　ThenwithexpandedwingshestearshisflightAloft，incumbentontheduskyAirThatfeltunusualweight，tillondryLandHelights，ifitwereLandthateverburn'dWithsolid，astheLakewithliquidfire；
　　Andsuchappear'dinhue，aswhentheforceOfsubterraneanwindtransportsaHillTornfromPELORUS，ortheshatter'dsideOfthundringAETNA，whosecombustibleAndfewel'dentralsthenceconceivingFire，Sublim'dwithMineralfury，aidtheWinds，Andleaveasingedbottomallinvolv'dWithstenchandsmoak:SuchrestingfoundthesoleOfunblestfeet。HimfollowedhisnextMate，Bothgloryingtohavescap'ttheSTYGIANfloodAsGods，andbytheirownrecover'dstrength，NotbythesufferanceofsupernalPower。
　　IsthistheRegion，thistheSoil，theClime，SaidthenthelostArchAngel，thistheseatThatwemustchangeforHeav'n，thismournfulgloomForthatcelestiallight?Beitso，sinceheeWhonowisSovrancandisposeandbidWhatshallberight:fardestfromhimisbestWhomreasonhathequald，forcehathmadesupreamAbovehisequals。FarewelhappyFieldsWhereJoyforeverdwells:Hailhorrours，hailInfernalworld，andthouprofoundestHellReceivethynewPossessor:OnewhobringsAmindnottobechang'dbyPlaceorTime。
　　Themindisitsownplace，andinitselfCanmakeaHeav'nofHell，aHellofHeav'n。
　　Whatmatterwhere，ifIbestillthesame，AndwhatIshouldbe，allbutlessthenheeWhomThunderhathmadegreater?HereatleastWeshallbefree；th'AlmightyhathnotbuiltHereforhisenvy，willnotdriveushence:
　　Herewemayreignsecure，andinmychoyceToreignisworthambitionthoughinHell:
　　BettertoreigninHell，thenserveinHeav'n。
　　Butwhereforeletwethenourfaithfulfriends，Th'associatesandcopartnersofourlossLyethusastonishtonth'obliviousPool，AndcallthemnottosharewithustheirpartInthisunhappyMansion，oroncemoreWithralliedArmstotrywhatmaybeyetRegaindinHeav'n，orwhatmorelostinHell?
　　SoSATANspake，andhimBEELZEBUB
　　Thusanswer'd。LeaderofthoseArmiesbright，Whichbutth'Omnipotentnonecouldhavefoyld，Ifoncetheyhearthatvoyce，theirliveliestpledgeOfhopeinfearsanddangers，heardsooftInworstextreams，andontheperilousedgeOfbattelwhenitrag'd，inallassaultsTheirsurestsignal，theywillsoonresumeNewcourageandrevive，thoughnowtheylyeGrovelingandprostrateonyonLakeofFire，Asweerewhile，astoundedandamaz'd，Nowonder，fall'nsuchapernicioushighth。
　　Hescarcehadceas'twhenthesuperiourFiendWasmovingtowardtheshore；hisponderousshieldEtherealtemper，massy，largeandround，Behindhimcast；thebroadcircumferenceHungonhisshouldersliketheMoon，whoseOrbThroughOpticGlasstheTUSCANArtistviewsAtEv'ningfromthetopofFESOLE，OrinVALDARNO，todescrynewLands，RiversorMountainsinherspottyGlobe。
　　HisSpear，toequalwhichthetallestPineHewnonNORWEGIANhills，tobetheMastOfsomegreatAmmiral，werebutawand，HewalktwithtosupportuneasiestepsOvertheburningMarle，notlikethosestepsOnHeavensAzure，andthetorridClimeSmoteonhimsorebesides，vaultedwithFire；
　　Nathlesshesoendur'd，tillontheBeachOfthatinflamedSea，hestoodandcall'dHisLegions，AngelForms，wholayintrans'tThickasAutumnalLeavesthatstrowtheBrooksInVALLOMBROSA，whereth'ETRURIANshadesHighoverarch'timbowr；orscatterdsedgeAfloat，whenwithfierceWindsORIONarm'dHathvexttheRed-SeaCoast，whosewavesorethrewBUSIRISandhisMEMPHIANChivalrie，VVhilewithperfidioushatredtheypursu'dTheSojournersofGOSHEN，whobeheldFromthesafeshoretheirfloatingCarkasesAndbrokenChariotWheels，sothickbestrownAbjectandlostlaythese，coveringtheFlood，Underamazementoftheirhideouschange。
　　Hecall'dsoloud，thatallthehollowDeepOfHellresounded。Princes，Potentates，Warriers，theFlowrofHeav'n，onceyours，nowlost，IfsuchastonishmentasthiscansiezeEternalspirits；orhaveyechos'nthisplaceAfterthetoylofBatteltoreposeYourweariedvertue，fortheeaseyoufindToslumberhere，asintheValesofHeav'n?
　　OrinthisabjectposturehaveyeswornToadoretheConquerour?whonowbeholdsCherubeandSeraphrowlingintheFloodWithscatter'dArmsandEnsigns，tillanonHisswiftpursuersfromHeav'nGatesdiscernTh'advantage，anddescendingtreadusdownThusdrooping，orwithlinkedThunderboltsTransfixustothebottomofthisGulfe。
　　Awake，arise，orbeforeverfall'n。
　　Theyheard，andwereabasht，anduptheysprungUponthewing，aswhenmenwonttowatchOnduty，sleepingfoundbywhomtheydread，Rouseandbestirthemselveserewellawake。
　　NordidtheynotperceavetheevilplightInwhichtheywere，orthefiercepainsnotfeel；
　　YettotheirGeneralsVoycetheysoonobeydInnumerable。AswhenthepotentRodOfAMRAMSSoninEGYPTSevilldayWav'droundtheCoast，upcall'dapitchycloudOfLOCUSTS，warpingontheEasternWind，ThatoretheRealmofimpiousPHAROAHhungLikeNight，anddarken'dalltheLandofNILE:
　　SonumberlesswerethosebadAngelsseenHoveringonwingundertheCopeofHell'Twixtupper，nether，andsurroundingFires；
　　Till，asasignalgiv'n，th'upliftedSpearOftheirgreatSultanwavingtodirectThircourse，inevenballancedowntheylightOnthefirmbrimstone，andfillallthePlain；
　　Amultitude，likewhichthepopulousNorthPour'dneverfromherfrozenloyns，topassRHENEortheDANAW，whenherbarbarousSonsCamelikeaDelugeontheSouth，andspreadBeneathGIBRALTARtotheLYBIANsands。
　　ForthwithfromeverySquadronandeachBandTheHeadsandLeadersthitherhastwherestoodTheirgreatCommander；GodlikeshapesandformsExcellinghuman，PrincelyDignities，AndPowersthatearstinHeavensatonThrones；
　　ThoughoftheirNamesinheav'nlyRecordsnowBenomemorial，blottedoutandras'dBythirRebellion，fromtheBooksofLife。
　　NorhadtheyyetamongtheSonsofEVE
　　GotthemnewNames，tillwandringoretheEarth，ThroughGodshighsufferanceforthetryalofman，ByfalsitiesandlyesthegreatestpartOfMankindtheycorruptedtoforsakeGodtheirCreator，andth'invisibleGloryofhim，thatmadethem，totransformOfttotheImageofaBrute，adorn'dWithgayReligionsfullofPompandGold，AndDevilstoadoreforDeities:
　　ThenweretheyknowntomenbyvariousNames，AndvariousIdolsthroughtheHeathenWorld。
　　Say，Muse，theirNamesthenknown，whofirst，wholast，Rous'dfromtheslumber，onthatfieryCouch，AtthirgreatEmperorscall，asnextinworthCamesinglywherehestoodonthebarestrand，Whilethepromiscuouscroudstoodyetaloof?
　　ThechiefwerethosewhofromthePitofHellRoamingtoseektheirpreyonearth，durstfixTheirSeatslongafternexttheSeatofGod，TheirAltarsbyhisAltar，Godsador'dAmongtheNationsround，anddurstabideJEHOVAHthundringoutofSION，thron'dBetweentheCherubim；yea，oftenplac'dWithinhisSanctuaryitselftheirShrines，Abominations；andwithcursedthingsHisholyRites，andsolemnFeastsprofan'd，Andwiththeirdarknessdurstaffronthislight。
　　FirstMOLOCH，horridKingbesmear'dwithbloodOfhumansacrifice，andparentstears，ThoughforthenoyseofDrumsandTimbrelsloudTheirchildrenscriesunheard，thatpastthroughfireTohisgrimIdol。HimtheAMMONITE
　　WorshiptinRABBAandherwatryPlain，InARGOBandinBASAN，tothestreamOfutmostARNON。NorcontentwithsuchAudaciousneighbourhood，thewisestheartOfSOLOMONheledbyfraudtobuildHisTemplerightagainsttheTempleofGodOnthatopprobriousHill，andmadehisGroveThepleasantVallyofHINNOM，TOPHETthenceAndblackGEHENNAcall'd，theTypeofHell。
　　NextCHEMOS，th'obscenedreadofMOABSSons，FromAROERtoNEBO，andthewildOfSouthmostABARIM；inHESEBON
　　AndHERONAIM，SEONSRealm，beyondTheflowryDaleofSIBMAcladwithVines，AndELEALEtoth'ASPHALTICKPool。
　　PEORhisotherName，whenheentic'dISRAELinSITTIMontheirmarchfromNILE
　　Todohimwantonrites，whichcostthemwoe。
　　YetthencehislustfulOrgiesheenlarg'dEventothatHillofscandal，bytheGroveOfMOLOCHhomicide，lusthardbyhate；
　　TillgoodJOSIAHdrovethemthencetoHell。
　　Withthesecamethey，whofromthebordringfloodOfoldEUPHRATEStotheBrookthatpartsEGYPTfromSYRIANground，hadgeneralNamesOfBAALIMandASHTAROTH，thosemale，TheseFeminine。ForSpiritswhentheypleaseCaneitherSexassume，orboth；sosoftAnduncompoundedistheirEssencepure，Notti'dormanacl'dwithjoyntorlimb，Norfoundedonthebrittlestrengthofbones，Likecumbrousflesh；butinwhatshapetheychooseDilatedorcondens't，brightorobscure，Canexecutetheiraeriepurposes，Andworksofloveorenmityfulfill。
　　ForthosetheRaceofISRAELoftforsookTheirlivingstrength，andunfrequentedleftHisrighteousAltar，bowinglowlydownTobestialGods；forwhichtheirheadsaslowBow'ddowninBattel，sunkbeforetheSpearOfdespicablefoes。WiththeseintroopCameASTORETH，whomthePHOENICIANScall'dASTARTE，QueenofHeav'n，withcrescentHorns；
　　TowhosebrightImagenightlybytheMoonSIDONIANVirginspaidtheirVowsandSongs，InSIONalsonotunsung，wherestoodHerTempleonth'offensiveMountain，builtBythatuxoriousKing，whoseheartthoughlarge，Beguil'dbyfairIdolatresses，fellToIdolsfoul。THAMMUZcamenextbehind，WhoseannualwoundinLEBANONallur'dTheSYRIANDamselstolamenthisfateInamorousdittyesallaSummersday，WhilesmoothADONISfromhisnativeRockRanpurpletotheSea，suppos'dwithbloodOfTHAMMUZyearlywounded:theLove-taleInfectedSIONSdaughterswithlikeheat，WhosewantonpassionsinthesacredPorchEZEKIELsaw，whenbytheVisionledHiseyesurvay'dthedarkIdolatriesOfalienatedJUDAH。NextcameoneWhomourn'dinearnest，whentheCaptiveArkMaim'dhisbruteImage，headandhandsloptoffInhisownTemple，onthegrunseledge，Wherehefellflat，andsham'dhisWorshipers:
　　DAGONhisName，SeaMonster，upwardManAnddownwardFish:yethadhisTemplehighRear'dinAZOTUS，dreadedthroughtheCoastOfPALESTINE，inGATHandASCALON，AndACCARONandGAZA'sfrontierbounds。
　　Himfollow'dRIMMON，whosedelightfulSeatWasfairDAMASCUS，onthefertilBanksOfABBANAandPHARPHAR，lucidstreams。
　　HealsoagainstthehouseofGodwasbold:
　　ALeperoncehelostandgain'daKing，AHAZhissottishConquerour，whomhedrewGodsAltartodisparageanddisplaceForoneofSYRIANmode，whereontoburnHisodiousoffrings，andadoretheGodsWhomhehadvanquisht。Aftertheseappear'dAcrewwhounderNamesofoldRenown，OSIRIS，ISIS，ORUSandtheirTrainWithmonstrousshapesandsorceriesabus'dFanaticEGYPTandherPriests，toseekThirwandringGodsdisguis'dinbrutishformsRatherthenhuman。NordidISRAELscapeTh'infectionwhentheirborrow'dGoldcompos'dTheCalfinOREB:andtheRebelKingDoubl'dthatsininBETHELandinDAN，Lik'ninghisMakertotheGrazedOx，JEHOVAH，whoinoneNightwhenhepass'dFromEGYPTmarching，equal'dwithonestrokeBothherfirstbornandallherbleatingGods。
　　BELIALcamelast，thenwhomaSpiritmorelewdFellnotfromHeaven，ormoregrosstoloveViceforitself:TohimnoTemplestoodOrAltarsmoak'd；yetwhomoreoftthenheeInTemplesandatAltars，whenthePriestTurnsAtheist，asdidELY'SSons，whofill'dWithlustandviolencethehouseofGod。
　　InCourtsandPalaceshealsoReignsAndinluxuriousCities，wherethenoyseOfriotascendsabovethirloftiestTowrs，Andinjuryandoutrage:AndwhenNightDarkenstheStreets，thenwanderforththeSonsOfBELIAL，flownwithinsolenceandwine。
　　WitnesstheStreetsofSODOM，andthatnightInGIBEAH，whenhospitableDoresYieldedthirMatronstopreventworserape。
　　Theseweretheprimeinorderandinmight；
　　Therestwerelongtotell，thoughfarrenown'd，Th'IONIANGods，ofJAVANSIssueheldGods，yetconfestlaterthenHeav'nandEarthThirboastedParents；TITANHeav'nsfirstbornWithhisenormousbrood，andbirthrightseis'dByyoungerSATURN，hefrommightierJOVE
　　HisownandRHEA'SSonlikemeasurefound；
　　SoJOVEusurpingreign'd:thesefirstinCREET
　　AndIDAknown，thenceontheSnowytopOfcoldOLYMPUSrul'dthemiddleAirThirhighestHeav'n；orontheDELPHIANCliff，OrinDODONA，andthroughalltheboundsOfDORICLand；orwhowithSATURNoldFledoverADRIAtoth'HESPERIANFields，AndoretheCELTICroam'dtheutmostIsles。
　　Alltheseandmorecameflocking；butwithlooksDowncastanddamp，yetsuchwhereinappear'dObscuresomglimpsofjoy，tohavefoundthirchiefNotindespair，tohavefoundthemselvesnotlostInlossitself；whichonhiscount'nancecastLikedoubtfulhue:buthehiswontedprideSoonrecollecting，withhighwords，thatboreSemblanceofworthnotsubstance，gentlyrais'dTheirfaintedcourage，anddispel'dtheirfears。
　　ThenstraitcommandsthatatthewarlikesoundOfTrumpetsloudandClarionsbeupreardHismightyStandard；thatproudhonourclaim'dAZAZELashisright，aCherubetall:
　　WhoforthwithfromtheglitteringStaffunfurldTh'ImperialEnsign，whichfullhighadvanc'tShonlikeaMeteorstreamingtotheWindWithGemmsandGoldenlustrerichimblaz'd，SeraphicarmsandTrophies:allthewhileSonorousmettalblowingMartialsounds:
　　AtwhichtheuniversalHostupsentAshoutthattoreHellsConcave，andbeyondFrightedtheReignofCHAOSandoldNight。
　　AllinamomentthroughthegloomwereseenTenthousandBannersriseintotheAirWithOrientColourswaving:withthemroseAForresthugeofSpears:andthrongingHelmsAppear'd，andserriedShieldsinthickarrayOfdepthimmeasurable:AnontheymoveInperfectPHALANXtotheDorianmoodOfFlutesandsoftRecorders；suchasrais'dTohighthofnoblesttemperHero'soldArmingtoBattel，andinsteadofrageDeliberatevalourbreath'd，firmandunmov'dWithdreadofdeathtoflightorfoulretreat，NorwantingpowertomitigateandswageWithsolemntouches，troubl'dthoughts，andchaseAnguishanddoubtandfearandsorrowandpainFrommortalorimmortalminds。ThustheyBreathingunitedforcewithfixedthoughtMov'doninsilencetosoftPipesthatcharm'dThirpainfulstepso'retheburntsoyle；andnowAdvanc'tinviewtheystand，ahorridFrontOfdreadfullengthanddazlingArms，inguiseOfWarriersoldwithorder'dSpearandShield，AwaitingwhatcommandthirmightyChiefHadtoimpose:HethroughthearmedFilesDartshisexperienc'teye，andsoontraverseThewholeBattalionviews，thirorderdue，ThirvisagesandstatureasofGods，Thirnumberlasthesumms。AndnowhisheartDistendswithpride，andhardninginhisstrengthGlories:Forneversincecreatedman，Metsuchimbodiedforce，asnam'dwiththeseCouldmeritmorethenthatsmallinfantryWarr'donbyCranes:thoughalltheGiantbroodOfPHLEGRAwithth'HeroicRacewerejoyn'dThatfoughtatTHEB'SandILIUM，oneachsideMixtwithauxiliarGods；andwhatresoundsInFableorROMANCEofUTHERSSonBegirtwithBRITISHandARMORICKnights；
　　Andallwhosince，Baptiz'dorInfidelJoustedinASPRAMONTorMONTALBAN，DAMASCO，orMAROCCO，orTREBISOND，OrwhomBISERTAsentfromAFRICshoreWhenCHARLEMAINwithallhisPeeragefellByFONTARABBIA。ThusfarthesebeyondCompareofmortalprowess，yetobserv'dThirdreadCommander:heabovetherestInshapeandgestureproudlyeminentStoodlikeaTowr；hisformhadyetnotlostAllherOriginalbrightness，norappear'dLessthenArchAngelruind，andth'excessOfGloryobscur'd:AswhentheSunnewris'nLooksthroughtheHorizontalmistyAirShornofhisBeams，orfrombehindtheMoonIndimEclipsdisastroustwilightshedsOnhalftheNations，andwithfearofchangePerplexesMonarchs。Dark'n'dso，yetshonAbovethemallth'ArchAngel:buthisfaceDeepscarsofThunderhadintrencht，andcareSatonhisfadedcheek，butunderBrowesOfdauntlesscourage，andconsideratePrideWaitingrevenge:cruelhiseye，butcastSignsofremorseandpassiontobeholdThefellowsofhiscrime，thefollowersratherFarotheroncebeheldinblisscondemn'dForevernowtohavetheirlotinpain，MillionsofSpiritsforhisfaultamerc'tOfHeav'n，andfromEternalSplendorsflungForhisrevolt，yetfaithfullhowtheystood，ThirGlorywitherd。AswhenHeavensFireHathscath'dtheForrestOaks，orMountainPines，WithsingedtoptheirstatelygrowththoughbareStandsontheblastedHeath。Henowprepar'dTospeak；whereattheirdoubl'dRankstheybendFromWingtoWing，andhalfenclosehimroundWithallhisPeers:attentionheldthemmute。
　　Thriceheassayd，andthriceinspiteofscorn，TearssuchasAngelsweep，burstforth:atlastWordsinterwovewithsighsfoundouttheirway。
　　OMyriadsofimmortalSpirits，OPowersMatchless，butwithth'Almighty，andthatstrifeWasnotinglorious，thoughth'eventwasdire，Asthisplacetestifies，andthisdirechangeHatefultoutter:butwhatpowerofmindForeseeingorpresaging，fromtheDepthOfknowledgepastorpresent，couldhavefear'd，HowsuchunitedforceofGods，howsuchAsstoodlikethese，couldeverknowrepulse?
　　Forwhocanyetbeleeve，thoughafterloss，ThatallthesepuissantLegions，whoseexileHathemptiedHeav'n，shallfailetore-ascendSelf-rais'd，andrepossesstheirnativeseat。
　　Forme，bewitnessalltheHostofHeav'n，Ifcounselsdifferent，ordangershun'dByme，havelostourhopes。ButhewhoreignsMonarchinHeav'n，tillthenasonesecureSatonhisThrone，upheldbyoldrepute，Consentorcustome，andhisRegalStatePutforthatfull，butstillhisstrengthconceal'd，Whichtemptedourattempt，andwroughtourfall。
　　Henceforthhismightweknow，andknowourownSoasnoteithertoprovoke，ordreadNewwarr，provok't；ourbetterpartremainsToworkinclosedesign，byfraudorguileWhatforceeffectednot:thathenolessAtlengthfromusmayfind，whoovercomesByforce，hathovercomebuthalfhisfoe。
　　SpacemayproducenewWorlds；whereofsorifeTherewentafameinHeav'nthatheerelongIntendedtocreate，andthereinplantAgeneration，whomhischoiceregardShouldfavourequaltotheSonsofHeaven:
　　Thither，ifbuttoprie，shallbeperhapsOurfirsteruption，thitherorelsewhere:
　　ForthisInfernalPitshallneverholdCaelestialSpiritsinBondage，north'AbysseLongunderdarknesscover。ButthesethoughtsFullCounselmustmature:Peaceisdespaird，ForwhocanthinkSubmission?Warrthen，WarrOpenorunderstoodmustberesolv'd。
　　Hespake:andtoconfirmhiswords，out-flewMillionsofflamingswords，drawnfromthethighsOfmightyCherubim；thesuddenblazeFarroundillumin'dhell:highlytheyrag'dAgainsttheHighest，andfiercewithgraspedarm'sClash'dontheirsoundingshieldsthedinofwar，HurlingdefiancetowardthevaultofHeav'n。
　　TherestoodaHillnotfarwhosegrieslytopBelch'dfireandrowlingsmoak；therestentireShonwithaglossiescurff，undoubtedsignThatinhiswombwashidmetallicOre，TheworkofSulphur。Thitherwing'dwithspeedAnumerousBrigadhasten'd。AswhenbandsOfPionerswithSpadeandPickaxearm'dForeruntheRoyalCamp，totrenchaField，OrcastaRampart。MAMMONledthemon，MAMMON，theleasterectedSpiritthatfellFromheav'n，forev'ninheav'nhislooks&；thoughtsWerealwaysdownwardbent，admiringmoreTherichesofHeav'nspavement，trod'nGold，Thenaughtdivineorholyelseenjoy'dInvisionbeatific:byhimfirstMenalso，andbyhissuggestiontaught，Ransack'dtheCenter，andwithimpioushandsRifl'dthebowelsofthirmotherEarthForTreasuresbetterhid。SoonhadhiscrewOp'ndintotheHillaspaciouswoundAnddig'doutribsofGold。LetnoneadmireThatrichesgrowinHell；thatsoylemaybestDeservethepretiousbane。AndhereletthoseWhoboastinmortalthings，andwondringtellOfBABEL，andtheworksofMEMPHIANKings，LearnhowthirgreatestMonumentsofFame，AndStrengthandArtareeasilyoutdoneBySpiritsreprobate，andinanhourWhatinanagetheywithincessanttoyleAndhandsinnumerablescarceperformNighonthePlaininmanycellsprepar'd，ThatunderneathhadveinsofliquidfireSluc'dfromtheLake，asecondmultitudeWithwondrousArtfoundedthemassieOre，Severingeachkinde，andscum'dtheBulliondross:
　　Athirdassoonhadform'dwithinthegroundAvariousmould，andfromtheboylingcellsBystrangeconveyancefill'deachhollownook，AsinanOrganfromoneblastofwindTomanyarowofPipesthesound-boardbreaths。
　　AnonoutoftheearthaFabrickhugeRoselikeanExhalation，withthesoundOfDulcetSymphoniesandvoicessweet，BuiltlikeaTemple，wherePILASTERSroundWereset，andDoricpillarsoverlaidWithGoldenArchitrave；nordidtherewantCorniceorFreeze，withbossySculpturesgrav'n，TheRoofwasfrettedGold。NotBABILON，NorgreatALCAIROsuchmagnificenceEqual'dinallthirglories，toinshrineBELUSorSERAPISthirGods，orseatThirKings，whenAEGYPTwithASSYRIAstroveInwealthandluxurie。Th'ascendingpileStoodfixtherstatelyhighth，andstraitthedoresOp'ningthirbrazenfouldsdiscoverwideWithin，heramplespaces，o'rethesmoothAndlevelpavement:fromthearchedroofPendantbysuttleMagicmanyarowOfStarryLampsandblazingCressetsfedWithNaphthaandASPHALTUSyeildedlightAsfromasky。ThehastymultitudeAdmiringenter'd，andtheworksomepraiseAndsometheArchitect:hishandwasknownInHeav'nbymanyaTowredstructurehigh，WhereScepter'dAngelsheldthirresidence，AndsatasPrinces，whomthesupremeKingExaltedtosuchpower，andgavetorule，EachinhisHerarchie，theOrdersbright。
　　Norwashisnameunheardorunador'dInancientGreece；andinAUSONIANlandMencall'dhimMULCIBER；andhowhefellFromHeav'n，theyfabl'd，thrownbyangryJOVE
　　Sheero'retheChrystalBattlements:fromMornToNoonhefell，fromNoontodewyEve，ASummersday；andwiththesettingSunDroptfromtheZenithlikeafallingStar，OnLEMNOSth'AEGAEANIle:thustheyrelate，Erring；forhewiththisrebelliousroutFelllongbefore；noraughtavail'dhimnowTohavebuiltinHeav'nhighTowrs；nordidhescapeByallhisEngins，butwasheadlongsentWithhisindustriouscrewtobuildinhell。
　　MeanwhilethewingedHaraldsbycommandOfSovranpower，withawfulCeremonyAndTrumpetssoundthroughouttheHostproclaimAsolemnCouncelforthwithtobeheldAtPANDAEMONIUM，thehighCapitalOfSatanandhisPeers:thirsummonscall'dFromeveryandBandsquaredRegimentByplaceorchoicetheworthiest；theyanonWithhundredsandwiththousandstroopingcameAttended:allaccesswasthrong'd，theGatesAndPorcheswide，butchiefthespaciousHallThoughlikeacover'dfield，whereChampionsboldWontrideinarm'd，andattheSoldanschairDefi'dthebestofPanimchivalryTomortalcombatorcarreerwithLance
　　Thickswarm'd，bothonthegroundandintheair，Brushtwiththehissofrusslingwings。AsBeesInspringtime，whentheSunwithTaurusrides，PoureforththirpopulousyouthabouttheHiveInclusters；theyamongfreshdewsandflowersFlietoandfro，oronthesmoothedPlank，ThesuburbofthirStraw-builtCittadel，Newrub'dwithBaume，expatiateandconferThirStateaffairs。SothicktheaeriecrowdSwarm'dandwerestraitn'd；tilltheSignalgiv'n，Beholdawonder！theybutnowwhoseemdInbignesstosurpassEarthsGiantSonsNowlessthensmallestDwarfs，innarrowroomThrongnumberless，likethatPigmeanRaceBeyondtheINDIANMount，orFaerieElves，WhosemidnightRevels，byaForrestsideOrFountainfomebelatedPeasantsees，Ordreamshesees，whileoverheadtheMoonSitsArbitress，andneerertotheEarthWheelsherpalecourse，theyonthirmirth&；danceIntent，withjocondMusiccharmhisear；
　　Atoncewithjoyandfearhisheartrebounds。
　　ThusincorporealSpiritstosmallestformsReduc'dthirshapesimmense，andwereatlarge，ThoughwithoutnumberstillamidsttheHallOfthatinfernalCourt。ButfarwithinAndinthirowndimensionslikethemselvesThegreatSeraphicLordsandCherubimIncloserecessandsecretconclavesatAthousandDemy-Godsongoldenseat's，Frequentandfull。AftershortsilencethenAndsummonsread，thegreatconsultbegan。TheEndoftheFirstBookParadiseLost-Book2ParadiseLostbyJohnMiltonBook2HighonaThroneofRoyalState，whichfarOutshonthewealthofORMUSandofIND，OrwherethegorgeousEastwithrichesthandShowrsonherKingsBARBARICPearl&；Gold，Satanexaltedsat，bymeritrais'dTothatbademinence；andfromdespairThushighupliftedbeyondhope，aspiresBeyondthushigh，insatiatetopursueVainWarrwithHeav'n，andbysuccessuntaughtHisproudimaginationsthusdisplaid。
　　PowersandDominions，DeitiesofHeav'n，ForsincenodeepwithinhergulfcanholdImmortalvigor，thoughopprestandfall'n，IgivenotHeav'nforlost。FromthisdescentCelestialvertuesrising，willappearMoregloriousandmoredreadthenfromnofall，Andtrustthemselvestofearnosecondfate:
　　Meethoughjustright，andthefixtLawsofHeav'nDidfirstcreateyourLeader，next，freechoice，Withwhatbesides，inCounselorinFight，Hathbinachievdofmerit，yetthislossThusfarratleastrecover'd，hathmuchmoreEstablishtinasafeunenviedThroneYeildedwithfullconsent。ThehappierstateInHeav'n，whichfollowsdignity，mightdrawEnvyfromeachinferior；butwhohereWillenvywhomthehighestplaceexposesFormosttostandagainsttheThunderersaimeYourbulwark，andcondemnstogreatestshareOfendlesspain?wherethereisthennogoodForwhichtostrive，nostrifecangrowupthereFromFaction；fornonesurewillclaiminhellPrecedence，none，whoseportionissosmallOfpresentpain，thatwithambitiousmindWillcovetmore。WiththisadvantagethenTounion，andfirmFaith，andfirmaccord，MorethencanbeinHeav'n，wenowreturnToclaimourjustinheritanceofold，SurertoprosperthenprosperityCouldhaveassur'dus；andbywhatbestway，WhetherofopenWarrorcovertguile，Wenowdebate；whocanadvise，mayspeak。
　　Heceas'd，andnexthimMOLOC，Scepter'dKingStoodup，thestrongestandthefiercestSpiritThatfoughtinHeav'n；nowfiercerbydespair:
　　Histrustwaswithth'Eternaltobedeem'dEqualinstrength，andratherthenbelessCar'dnottobeatall；withthatcarelostWentallhisfear:ofGod，orHell，orworseHereckdnot，andthesewordsthereafterspake。
　　MysentenceisforopenWarr:OfWiles，Moreunexpert，Iboastnot:themletthoseContrivewhoneed，orwhentheyneed，notnow。
　　Forwhiletheysitcontriving，shalltherest，MillionsthatstandinArms，andlongingwaitTheSignaltoascend，sitlingringhereHeav'nsfugitives，andforthirdwellingplaceAcceptthisdarkopprobriousDenofshame，ThePrisonofhisTyrannywhoReignsByourdelay?no，letusratherchooseArm'dwithHellflamesandfuryallatonceO'reHeav'nshighTowrstoforceresistlessway，TurningourTorturesintohorridArmsAgainsttheTorturer；whentomeetthenoiseOfhisAlmightyEnginheshallhearInfernalThunder，andforLightningseeBlackfireandhorrorshotwithequalrageAmonghisAngels；andhisThroneitselfMixtwithTARTAREANSulphur，andstrangefire，HisowninventedTorments。ButperhapsThewayseemsdifficultandsteeptoscaleWithuprightwingagainstahigherfoe。
　　Letsuchbethinkthem，ifthesleepydrenchOfthatforgetfulLakebenummenotstill，ThatinourpropermotionweascendUptoournativeseat:descentandfallTousisadverse。WhobutfeltoflateWhenthefierceFoehungonourbrok'nRearInsulting，andpursu'dusthroughtheDeep，WithwhatcompulsionandlaboriousflightWesunkthuslow?Th'ascentiseasiethen；
　　Th'eventisfear'd；shouldweagainprovokeOurstronger，someworsewayhiswrathmayfindToourdestruction:iftherebeinHellFeartobeworsedestroy'd:whatcanbeworseThentodwellhere，driv'noutfrombliss，condemn'dInthisabhorreddeeptoutterwoe；
　　WherepainofunextinguishablefireMustexerciseuswithouthopeofendTheVassalsofhisanger，whentheScourgeInexorably，andthetorturinghoureCallsustoPenance?Moredestroy'dthenthusWeshouldbequiteabolishtandexpire。
　　Whatfearwethen?whatdoubtwetoincenseHisutmostire?whichtothehighthenrag'd，Willeitherquiteconsumeus，andreduceTonothingthisessential，happierfarrThenmiserabletohaveeternalbeing:
　　OrifoursubstancebeindeedDivine，Andcannotceasetobe，weareatworstOnthissidenothing；andbyproofwefeelOurpowersufficienttodisturbhisHeav'n，AndwithperpetualinrodestoAllarme，Thoughinaccessible，hisfatalThrone:
　　WhichifnotVictoryisyetRevenge。
　　Heendedfrowning，andhislookdenounc'dDesperaterevenge，andBatteldangerousTolessthenGods。Onth'othersideuproseBELIAL，inactmoregracefulandhumane；
　　AfairerpersonlostnotHeav'n；heseemdFordignitycompos'dandhighexploit:
　　Butallwasfalseandhollow；thoughhisTongueDroptManna，andcouldmaketheworseappearThebetterreason，toperplexanddashMaturestCounsels:forhisthoughtswerelow；
　　Toviceindustrious，buttoNoblerdeedsTimorousandslothful:yethepleas'dtheeare，Andwithperswasiveaccentthusbegan。
　　IshouldbemuchforopenWarr，OPeers，Asnotbehindinhate；ifwhatwasurg'dMainreasontoperswadeimmediateWarr，Didnotdisswadememost，andseemtocastOminousconjectureonthewholesuccess:
　　WhenhewhomostexcelsinfactofArms，InwhathecounselsandinwhatexcelsMistrustful，groundshiscourageondespairAndutterdissolution，asthescopeOfallhisaim，aftersomedirerevenge。
　　First，whatRevenge?theTowrsofHeav'narefill'dWithArmedwatch，thatrenderallaccessImpregnable；oftontheborderingDeepEncampthirLegions，orwithobscurewingScoutfarrandwideintotheRealmofnight，Scorningsurprize。OrcouldwebreakourwayByforce，andatourheelsallHellshouldriseWithblackestInsurrection，toconfoundHeav'nspurestLight，yetourgreatEnemieAllincorruptiblewouldonhisThroneSitunpolluted，andth'EtherealmouldIncapableofstainwouldsoonexpelHermischief，andpurgeoffthebaserfireVictorious。Thusrepuls'd，ourfinalhopeIsflatdespair:wemustexasperateTh'AlmightyVictortospendallhisrage，Andthatmustendus，thatmustbeourcure，Tobenomore；sadcure；forwhowouldloose，Thoughfullofpain，thisintellectualbeing，ThosethoughtsthatwanderthroughEternity，Toperishrather，swallowdupandlostInthewidewombofuncreatednight，Devoidofsenseandmotion?andwhoknows，Letthisbegood，whetherourangryFoeCangiveit，orwillever?howhecanIsdoubtful；thatheneverwillissure。
　　Willhe，sowise，letlooseatoncehisire，Belikethroughimpotence，orunaware，TogivehisEnemiesthirwish，andendTheminhisanger，whomhisangersavesTopunishendless?whereforeceasewethen?
　　SaytheywhocounselWarr，wearedecreed，Reserv'danddestin'dtoEternalwoe；
　　Whateverdoing，whatcanwesuffermore，Whatcanwesufferworse?isthisthenworst，Thussitting，thusconsulting，thusinArms?
　　Whatwhenwefledamain，pursu'dandstrookWithHeav'nsafflictingThunder，andbesoughtTheDeeptoshelterus?thisHellthenseem'dArefugefromthosewounds:orwhenwelayChain'dontheburningLake?thatsurewasworse。
　　Whatifthebreaththatkindl'dthosegrimfiresAwak'dshouldblowthemintosevenfoldrageAndplungeusintheFlames?orfromaboveShouldintermittedvengeanceArmeagainHisredrighthandtoplagueus?whatifallHerstoreswereop'n'd，andthisFirmamentOfHellshouldspoutherCataractsofFire，Impendenthorrors，threatninghideousfallOnedayuponourheads；whileweperhapsDesigningorexhortinggloriousWarr，CaughtinafierieTempestshallbehurl'dEachonhisrocktransfixt，thesportandpreyOfrackingwhirlwinds，orforeversunkUnderyonboylingOcean，wraptinChains；
　　Theretoconversewitheverlastinggroans，Unrespited，unpitied，unrepreevd，Agesofhopelessend；thiswouldbeworse。
　　Warrtherefore，openorconceal'd，alikeMyvoicedisswades；forwhatcanforceorguileWithhim，orwhodeceivehismind，whoseeyeViewsallthingsatoneview?hefromheav'nshighthAlltheseourmotionsvain，seesandderides；
　　NotmoreAlmightytoresistourmightThenwisetofrustrateallourplotsandwiles。
　　Shallwethenlivethusvile，theraceofHeav'nThustrampl'd，thusexpell'dtosufferhereChains&；theseTorments?betterthesethenworseBymyadvice；sincefateinevitableSubduesus，andOmnipotentDecree，TheVictorswill。Tosuffer，astodoe，Ourstrengthisequal，northeLawunjustThatsoordains:thiswasatfirstresolv'd，Ifwewerewise，againstsogreatafoeContending，andsodoubtfulwhatmightfall。
　　Ilaugh，whenthosewhoattheSpearareboldAndvent'rous，ifthatfailthem，shrinkandfearWhatyettheyknowmustfollow，toendureExile，orignominy，orbonds，orpain，ThesentenceofthirConquerour:ThisisnowOurdoom；whichifwecansustainandbear，OurSupreamFoeintimemaymuchremitHisanger，andperhapsthusfarrremov'dNotmindusnotoffending，satisfi'dWithwhatispunish't；whencetheseragingfiresWillslack'n，ifhisbreathstirnotthirflames。
　　OurpureressencethenwillovercomeThirnoxiousvapour，orenur'dnotfeel，Orchang'datlength，andtotheplaceconformdIntemperandinnature，willreceiveFamiliarthefierceheat，andvoidofpain；
　　Thishorrorwillgrowmilde，thisdarknesslight，Besideswhathopethenever-endingflightOffuturedaysmaybring，whatchance，whatchangeWorthwaiting，sinceourpresentlotappeersForhappythoughbutill，forillnotworst，Ifweprocurenottoourselvesmorewoe。
　　ThusBELIALwithwordscloath'dinreasonsgarbCounsel'dignobleease，andpeacefulsloath，Notpeace:andafterhimthusMAMMONspake。
　　EithertodisinthronetheKingofHeav'nWewarr，ifwarrbebest，ortoregainOurownrightlost:himtounthronewethenMayhope，wheneverlastingFateshallyeildTofickleChance，andCHAOSjudgethestrife:
　　TheformervaintohopearguesasvainThelatter:forwhatplacecanbeforusWithinHeav'nsbound，unlessHeav'nsLordsupreamWeoverpower?SupposeheshouldrelentAndpublishGracetoall，onpromisemadeOfnewSubjection；withwhateyescouldweStandinhispresencehumble，andreceiveStrictLawsimpos'd，tocelebratehisThroneWithwarbl'dHymns，andtohisGodheadsingForc'tHalleluiah's；whileheLordlysitsOurenviedSovran，andhisAltarbreathesAmbrosialOdoursandAmbrosialFlowers，Ourservileofferings。ThismustbeourtaskInHeav'n，thisourdelight；howwearisomEternitysospentinworshippaidTowhomwehate。LetusnotthenpursueByforceimpossible，byleaveobtain'dUnacceptable，thoughinHeav'n，ourstateOfsplendidvassalage，butratherseekOurowngoodfromourselves，andfromourownLivetoourselves，thoughinthisvastrecess，Free，andtononeaccountable，preferringHardlibertybeforetheeasieyokeOfservilePomp。OurgreatnesswillappearThenmostconspicuous，whengreatthingsofsmall，Usefulofhurtful，prosperousofadverseWecancreate，andinwhatplacesoe'reThriveunderevil，andworkeaseoutofpainThroughlabourandendurance。ThisdeepworldOfdarknessdowedread?HowoftamidstThickcloudsanddarkdothHeav'nsall-rulingSireChoosetoreside，hisGloryunobscur'd，AndwiththeMajestyofdarknessroundCovershisThrone；fromwhencedeepthundersroarMust'ringthirrage，andHeav'nresemblesHell?
　　AsheourDarkness，cannotwehisLightImitatewhenweplease?ThisDesartsoileWantsnotherhiddenlustre，GemmsandGold；
　　Norwantweskillorart，fromwhencetoraiseMagnificence；andwhatcanHeav'nshewmore?
　　OurtormentsalsomayinlengthoftimeBecomeourElements，thesepiercingFiresAssoftasnowsevere，ourtemperchang'dIntotheirtemper；whichmustneedsremoveThesensibleofpain。AllthingsinviteTopeacefulCounsels，andthesettl'dStateOforder，howinsafetybestwemayComposeourpresentevils，withregardOfwhatweareandwhere，dismissingquiteAllthoughtsofWarr:yehavewhatIadvise。
　　Hescarcehadfinisht，whensuchmurmurfilldTh'Assembly，aswhenhollowRocksretainThesoundofblustringwinds，whichallnightlongHadrous'dtheSea，nowwithhoarsecadencelullSea-faringmenorewatcht，whoseBarkbychanceOrPinnaceanchorsinacraggyBayAftertheTempest:SuchapplausewasheardAsMAMMONended，andhisSentencepleas'd，Advisingpeace:forsuchanotherFieldTheydreadedworsethenHell:somuchthefearOfThunderandtheSwordofMICHAEL
　　Wroughtstillwithinthem；andnolessdesireTofoundthisnetherEmpire，whichmightriseBypollicy，andlongprocessoftime，InemulationoppositetoHeav'n。
　　WhichwhenBEELZEBUBperceiv'd，thenwhom，SATANexcept，nonehighersat，withgraveAspectherose，andinhisrisingseem'dAPillarofState；deeponhisFrontengravenDeliberationsatandpublickcare；
　　AndPrincelycounselinhisfaceyetshon，Majestickthoughinruin:sagehestoodWithATLANTEANshouldersfittobearTheweightofmightiestMonarchies；hislookDrewaudienceandattentionstillasNightOrSummersNoon-tideair，whilethushespake。
　　ThronesandimperialPowers，off-springofheav'n，EtherealVertues；ortheseTitlesnowMustwerenounce，andchangingstilebecall'dPrincesofHell?forsothepopularvoteInclines，heretocontinue，andbuilduphereAgrowingEmpire；doubtless；whilewedream，AndknownotthattheKingofHeav'nhathdoom'dThisplaceourdungeon，notoursaferetreatBeyondhisPotentarm，toliveexemptFromHeav'nshighjurisdiction，innewLeagueBandedagainsthisThrone，buttoremaineInstrictestbondage，thoughthusfarremov'd，Underth'inevitablecurb，reserv'dHiscaptivemultitude:Forhe，besure，Inhighthordepth，stillfirstandlastwillReignSoleKing，andofhisKingdomloosenopartByourrevolt，butoverHellextendHisEmpire，andwithIronScepterruleUshere，aswithhisGoldenthoseinHeav'n。
　　WhatsitwethenprojectingPeaceandWarr?
　　Warrhathdetermin'dus，andfoildwithlossIrreparable；tearmsofpeaceyetnoneVoutsaf'torsought；forwhatpeacewillbegiv'nTousenslav'd，butcustodysevere，Andstripes，andarbitrarypunishmentInflicted?andwhatpeacecanwereturn，Buttoourpowerhostilityandhate，Untam'dreluctance，andrevengethoughslow，YeteverplottinghowtheConquerourleastMayreaphisconquest，andmayleastrejoyceIndoingwhatwemostinsufferingfeel?
　　Norwilloccasionwant，norshallweneedWithdangerousexpeditiontoinvadeHeav'n，whosehighwallsfearnoassaultorSiege，OrambushfromtheDeep。WhatifwefindSomeeasierenterprize?ThereisaplaceIfancientandpropheticfameinHeav'nErrnotanotherWorld，thehappyseatOfsomnewRacecall'dMAN，aboutthistimeTobecreatedliketous，thoughlessInpowerandexcellence，butfavour'dmoreOfhimwhorulesabove；sowashiswillPronounc'damongtheGods，andbyanOath，ThatshookHeav'nswholcircumference，confirm'd。
　　Thitherletusbendallourthoughts，tolearnWhatcreaturesthereinhabit，ofwhatmould，Orsubstance，howendu'd，andwhatthirPower，Andwherethirweakness，howattemptedbest，Byforceorsuttlety:ThoughHeav'nbeshut，AndHeav'nshighArbitratorsitsecureInhisownstrength，thisplacemaylyeexpos'dTheutmostborderofhisKingdom，leftTotheirdefencewhoholdit:hereperhapsSomadvantagiousactmaybeachiev'dBysuddenonset，eitherwithHellfireTowastehiswholeCreation，orpossessAllasourown，anddriveasweweredriven，Thepuniehabitants，orifnotdrive，SeducethemtoourParty，thatthirGodMayprovethirfoe，andwithrepentinghandAbolishhisownworks。ThiswouldsurpassCommonrevenge，andinterrupthisjoyInourConfusion，andourJoyupraiseInhisdisturbance；whenhisdarlingSonsHurl'dheadlongtopartakewithus，shallcurseThirfrailOriginals，andfadedbliss，Fadedsosoon。AdviseifthisbeworthAttempting，ortositindarknesshereHatchingvainEmpires。ThusBEELZEBUB
　　PleadedhisdevilishCounsel，firstdevis'dBySATAN，andinpartpropos'd:forwhence，ButfromtheAuthorofallillcouldSpringSodeepamalice，toconfoundtheraceOfmankindinoneroot，andEarthwithHellTomingleandinvolve，donealltospiteThegreatCreatour?ButthirspitestillservesHisglorytoaugment。ThebolddesignPleas'dhighlythoseinfernalStates，andjoySparkl'dinallthireyes；withfullassentTheyvote:whereathisspeechhethusrenews。
　　Wellhaveyejudg'd，wellendedlongdebate，SynodofGods，andliketowhatyeare，Greatthingsresolv'd；whichfromthelowestdeepWilloncemoreliftusup，inspightofFate，NeererourancientSeat；perhapsinviewOfthosebrightconfines，whencewithneighbouringArmsAndopportuneexcursionwemaychanceRe-enterHeav'n；orelseinsomemildeZoneDwellnotunvisitedofHeav'nsfairLightSecure，andatthebrightningOrientbeamPurgeoffthisgloom；thesoftdeliciousAir，TohealthescarrofthesecorrosiveFiresShallbreathherbalme。ButfirstwhomshallwesendInsearchofthisnewworld，whomshallwefindSufficient?whoshalltemptwithwandringfeetThedarkunbottom'dinfiniteAbyssAndthroughthepalpableobscurefindoutHisuncouthway，orspreadhisaerieflightUpbornwithindefatigablewingsOverthevastabrupt，erehearriveThehappyIle；whatstrength，whatartcanthenSuffice，orwhatevasionbearhimsafeThroughthestrictSenteriesandStationsthickOfAngelswatchinground?HerehehadneedAllcircumspection，andwenownolessChoiceinoursuffrage；foronwhomwesend，Theweightofallandourlasthoperelies。
　　Thissaid，hesat；andexpectationheldHislooksuspence，awaitingwhoappeer'dTosecond，oroppose，orundertakeTheperilousattempt:butallsatmute，Ponderingthedangerwithdeepthoughts；&；eachInotherscount'nanceredhisowndismayAstonisht:noneamongthechoiceandprimeOfthoseHeav'n-warringChampionscouldbefoundSohardieastoprofferoracceptAlonethedreadfulvoyage；tillatlastSATAN，whomnowtranscendentgloryrais'dAbovehisfellows，withMonarchalprideConsciousofhighestworth，unmov'dthusspake。
　　OProgenyofHeav'n，EmpyrealThrones，WithreasonhathdeepsilenceanddemurrSeis'dus，thoughundismaid:longisthewayAndhard，thatoutofHellleadsuptoLight；
　　Ourprisonstrong，thishugeconvexofFire，Outrageoustodevour，immuresusroundNinefold，andgatesofburningAdamantBarr'doverusprohibitallegress。
　　Thesepast，ifanypass，thevoidprofoundOfunessentialNightreceiveshimnextWidegaping，andwithutterlossofbeingThreatenshim，plung'dinthatabortivegulf。
　　Ifthencehescapeintowhateverworld，OrunknownRegion，whatremainshimlessThenunknowndangersandashardescape。
　　ButIshouldillbecomethisThrone，OPeers，AndthisImperialSov'ranty，adorn'dWithsplendor，arm'dwithpower，ifaughtpropos'dAndjudg'dofpublicmoment，intheshapeOfdifficultyordangercoulddeterreMefromattempting。WhereforedoIassumeTheseRoyalties，andnotrefusetoReign，RefusingtoacceptasgreatashareOfhazardasofhonour，duealikeTohimwhoReigns，andsomuchtohimdueOfhazardmore，asheabovetherestHighhonourdsits?Gotherforemightypowers，TerrorofHeav'n，thoughfall'n；intendathome，Whilehereshallbeourhome，whatbestmayeaseThepresentmisery，andrenderHellMoretollerable；iftherebecureorcharmTorespiteordeceive，orslackthepainOfthisillMansion:intermitnowatchAgainstawakefulFoe，whileIabroadThroughallthecoastsofdarkdestructionseekDeliveranceforusall:thisenterprizeNoneshallpartakewithme。ThussayingroseTheMonarch，andpreventedallreply，Prudent，leastfromhisresolutionrais'dOthersamongthechiefmightoffernowCertaintoberefus'dwhatersttheyfeard；
　　Andsorefus'dmightinopinionstandHisrivals，winningcheapthehighreputeWhichhethroughhazardhugemustearn。ButtheyDreadednotmoreth'adventurethenhisvoiceForbidding；andatoncewithhimtheyrose；
　　ThirrisingallatoncewasasthesoundOfThunderheardremote。TowardshimtheybendWithawfulreverenceprone；andasaGodExtollhimequaltothehighestinHeav'n:
　　Norfail'dtheytoexpresshowmuchtheyprais'd，Thatforthegeneralsafetyhedespis'dHisown:forneitherdotheSpiritsdamn'dLooseallthirvertue；leastbadmenshouldboastThirspeciousdeedsonearth，whichgloryexcites，Orcloseambitionvarnishto'rewithzeal。
　　ThustheythirdoubtfulconsultationsdarkEndedrejoycinginthirmatchlessChief:
　　AswhenfrommountaintopstheduskycloudsAscending，whiletheNorthwindsleeps，o'respreadHeav'nschearfulface，thelowringElementScowlsorethedark'ndlantskipSnow，orshowre；
　　IfchancetheradiantSunwithfarewellsweetExtendhisev'ningbeam，thefieldsrevive，Thebirdsthirnotesrenew，andbleatingherdsAttestthirjoy，thathillandvalleyrings。
　　Oshametomen！DevilwithDevildamn'dFirmconcordholds，menonelydisagreeOfCreaturesrational，thoughunderhopeOfheavenlyGrace:andGodproclaimingpeace，Yetliveinhatred，enmitie，andstrifeAmongthemselves，andleviecruelwarres，WastingtheEarth，eachothertodestroy:
　　Asifwhichmightinduceustoaccord
　　Manhadnothellishfoesanowbesides，Thatdayandnightforhisdestructionwaite。
　　TheSTYGIANCouncelthusdissolv'd；andforthInordercamethegrandinfernalPeers，MidstcamethirmightyParamount，andseemdAloneth'AntagonistofHeav'n，norlessThenHellsdreadEmperourwithpompSupream，AndGod-likeimitatedState；himroundAGlobeoffierieSeraphiminclos'dWithbrightimblazonrie，andhorrentArms。
　　ThenofthirSessionendedtheybidcryWithTrumpetsregalsoundthegreatresult:
　　TowardthefourwindsfourspeedyCherubimPuttothirmouthsthesoundingAlchymieByHaraldsvoiceexplain'd:thehollowAbyssHeardfarrandwide，andallthehostofHellWithdeafningshout，return'dthemloudacclaim。
　　Thencemoreateasethirmindsandsomwhatrais'dByfalsepresumptuoushope，therangedpowersDisband，andwandring，eachhisseveralwayPursues，asinclinationorsadchoiceLeadshimperplext，wherehemaylikeliestfindTrucetohisrestlessthoughts，andentertainTheirksomehours，tillhisgreatChiefreturn。
　　PartonthePlain，orintheAirsublimeUponthewing，orinswiftracecontend，Asatth'OlympianGamesorPYTHIANfields；
　　PartcurbthirfierieSteeds，orshuntheGoalWithrapidwheels，orfrontedBrigadsform。
　　AswhentowarnproudCitieswarrappearsWag'dinthetroubl'dSkie，andArmiesrushToBattelintheClouds，beforeeachVanPricforththeAerieKnights，andcouchthirspearsTillthickestLegionsclose；withfeatsofArmsFromeitherendofHeav'nthewelkinburns。
　　OtherswithvastTYPHOEANragemorefellRendupbothRocksandHills，andridetheAirInwhirlwind；Hellscarceholdsthewildeuproar。
　　AswhenALCIDESfromOEALIACrown'dWithconquest，feltth'envenom'drobe，andtoreThroughpainupbytherootsTHESSALIANPines，AndLICHASfromthetopofOETAthrewIntoth'EUBOICSea。Othersmoremilde，Retreatedinasilentvalley，singWithnotesAngelicaltomanyaHarpThirownHeroicdeedsandhaplessfallBydoomofBattel；andcomplainthatFateFreeVertueshouldenthralltoForceorChance。
　　Thirsongwaspartial，buttheharmonyWhatcoulditlesswhenSpiritsimmortalsing?
　　SuspendedHell，andtookwithravishmentThethrongingaudience。IndiscoursemoresweetForEloquencetheSoul，SongcharmstheSense，
　　OthersapartsatonaHillretir'd，Inthoughtsmoreelevate，andreason'dhighOfProvidence，Foreknowledge，Will，andFate，FixtFate，freewill，foreknowledgeabsolute，Andfoundnoend，inwandringmazeslost。
　　Ofgoodandevilmuchtheyargu'dthen，Ofhappinessandfinalmisery，PassionandApathie，andgloryandshame，Vainwisdomall，andfalsePhilosophie:
　　YetwithapleasingsorceriecouldcharmPainforawhileoranguish，andexciteFallacioushope，orarmth'obduredbrestWithstubbornpatienceaswithtriplesteel。
　　AnotherpartinSquadronsandgrossBands，OnboldadventuretodiscoverwideThatdismalworld，ifanyClimeperhapsMightyeildthemeasierhabitation，bendFourwaysthirflyingMarch，alongtheBanksOffourinfernalRiversthatdisgorgeIntotheburningLakethirbalefulstreams；
　　AbhorredSTYXthefloodofdeadlyhate，SadACHERONofsorrow，blackanddeep；
　　COCYTUS，nam'doflamentationloudHeardontherufulstream；fiercePHLEGETON
　　Whosewavesoftorrentfireinflamewithrage。
　　Farrofffromtheseaslowandsilentstream，LETHEtheRiverofOblivionroulesHerwatrieLabyrinth，whereofwhodrinks，Forthwithhisformerstateandbeingforgets，Forgetsbothjoyandgrief，pleasureandpain。
　　BeyondthisfloodafrozenContinentLiesdarkandwilde，beatwithperpetualstormsOfWhirlwindanddireHail，whichonfirmlandThawsnot，butgathersheap，andruinseemsOfancientpile；allelsedeepsnowandice，AgulfprofoundasthatSERBONIANBogBetwixtDAMIATAandmountCASIUSold，WhereArmieswholehavesunk:theparchingAirBurnsfrore，andcoldperformsth'effectofFire。
　　Thitherbyharpy-footedFurieshail'd，Atcertainrevolutionsallthedamn'dArebrought:andfeelbyturnsthebitterchangeOffierceextreams，extreamsbychangemorefierce，FromBedsofragingFiretostarveinIceThirsoftEtherealwarmth，andtheretopineImmovable，infixt，andfrozenround，Periodsoftime，thencehurriedbacktofire。
　　TheyferryoverthisLETHEANSoundBothtoandfro，thirsorrowtoaugment，Andwishandstruggle，astheypass，toreachThetemptingstream，withonesmalldroptolooseInsweetforgetfulnessallpainandwoe，Allinonemoment，andsoneerthebrink；
　　Butfatewithstands，andtoopposeth'attemptMEDUSAwithGORGONIANterrorguardsTheFord，andofitselfthewaterfliesAlltasteoflivingwight，asonceitfledThelipofTANTALUS。ThusrovingonInconfus'dmarchforlorn，th'adventrousBandsWithshuddringhorrorpale，andeyesagastView'dfirstthirlamentablelot，andfoundNorest:throughmanyadarkanddrearieVaileTheypass'd，andmanyaRegiondolorous，O'remanyaFrozen，manyaFierieAlpe，Rocks，Caves，Lakes，Fens，Bogs，Dens，andshadesofdeath，AUniverseofdeath，whichGodbycurseCreatedevil，forevilonlygood，Wherealllifedies，deathlives，andnaturebreeds，Perverse，allmonstrous，allprodigiousthings，Abominable，inutterable，andworseThenFablesyethavefeign'd，orfearconceiv'd，GORGONSandHYDRA'S，andCHIMERA'Sdire。
　　MeanwhiletheAdversaryofGodandMan，SATANwiththoughtsinflam'dofhighestdesign，Putsonswiftwings，andtowardtheGatesofHellExploreshissolitaryflight；somtimesHescourstherighthandcoast，somtimestheleft，NowshaveswithlevelwingtheDeep，thensoaresUptothefieryconcavetouringhigh。
　　AswhenfarroffatSeaaFleetdescri'dHangsintheClouds，byAEQUINOCTIALWindsClosesailingfromBENGALA，ortheIlesOfTERNATEandTIDORE，whenceMerchantsbringThirspicieDrugs:theyonthetradingFloodThroughthewideETHIOPIANtotheCapePlystemmingnightlytowardthePole。Soseem'dFarrofftheflyingFiend:atlastappeerHellboundshighreachingtothehorridRoof，AndthricethreefoldtheGates；threefoldswereBrassThreeIron，threeofAdamantineRock，Impenitrable，impal'dwithcirclingfire，Yetunconsum'd。BeforetheGatestheresatOneithersideaformidableshape；
　　Theoneseem'dWomantothewaste，andfair，ButendedfoulinmanyascalyfouldVoluminousandvast，aSerpentarm'dWithmortalsting:abouthermiddleroundAcryofHellHoundsneverceasingbark'dWithwideCERBEREANmouthsfullloud，andrungAhideousPeal:yet，whentheylist，wouldcreep，Ifaughtdisturb'dthirnoyse，intoherwoomb，Andkennelthere，yettherestillbark'dandhowl'dWithinunseen。FarrlessabhorrdthentheseVex'dSCYLLAbathingintheSeathatpartsCALABRIAfromthehoarceTRINACRIANshore:
　　NoruglierfollowtheNight-Hag，whencall'dInsecret，ridingthroughtheAirshecomesLur'dwiththesmellofinfantblood，todanceWithLAPLANDWitches，whilethelabouringMoonEclipsesatthircharms。Theothershape，Ifshapeitmightbecall'dthatshapehadnoneDistinguishableinmember，joynt，orlimb，Orsubstancemightbecall'dthatshadowseem'd，Foreachseem'deither；blackitstoodasNight，FierceastenFuries，terribleasHell，AndshookadreadfulDart；whatseem'dhisheadThelikenessofaKinglyCrownhadon。
　　SATANwasnowathand，andfromhisseatTheMonstermovingonwardcameasfast，Withhorridstrides，Helltrembledashestrode。
　　Th'undauntedFiendwhatthismightbeadmir'd，Admir'd，notfear'd；GodandhisSonexcept，Createdthingnaughtvallu'dhenorshun'd；
　　Andwithdisdainfullookthusfirstbegan。
　　Whenceandwhatartthou，execrableshape，Thatdar'st，thoughgrimandterrible，advanceThymiscreatedFrontathwartmywayToyonderGates?throughthemImeantopass，Thatbeassur'd，withoutleaveasktofthee:
　　Retire，ortastethyfolly，andlearnbyproof，Hell-born，nottocontendwithSpiritsofHeav'n。
　　TowhomtheGoblinfullofwrauthreply'd，ArtthouthatTraitorAngel，artthouhee，WhofirstbrokepeaceinHeav'nandFaith，tillthenUnbrok'n，andinproudrebelliousArmsDrewafterhimthethirdpartofHeav'nsSonsConjur'dagainstthehighest，forwhichbothThouAndtheyoutcastfromGod，areherecondemn'dTowasteEternaldaiesinwoeandpain?
　　Andreck'n'stthouthyselfwithSpiritsofHeav'n，Hell-doomd，andbreath'stdefiancehereandscorn，WhereIreignKing，andtoenragetheemore，ThyKingandLord?Backtothypunishment，Falsefugitive，andtothyspeedaddwings，LeastwithawhipofScorpionsIpursueThylingring，orwithonestrokeofthisDartStrangehorrorseisethee，andpangsunfeltbefore。
　　Sospakethegrieslieterrour，andinshape，Sospeakingandsothreatning，grewtenfoldMoredreadfulanddeform:onth'othersideIncenc'twithindignationSATANstoodUnterrifi'd，andlikeaCometburn'd，ThatfiresthelengthofOPHIUCUShugeInth'ArtickSky，andfromhishorridhairShakesPestilenceandWarr。EachattheHeadLevel'dhisdeadlyaime；thirfatallhandsNosecondstrokeintend，andsuchafrownEachcastatth'other，aswhentwoblackCloudsWithHeav'nsArtilleryfraught，comerattlingonOvertheCASPIAN，thenstandfronttofrontHov'ringaspace，tillWindsthesignalblowTojoynthirdarkEncounterinmidair:
　　SofrowndthemightyCombatants，thatHellGrewdarkeratthirfrown，somatchttheystood；
　　ForneverbutoncemorewaseitherlikeTomeetsogreatafoe:andnowgreatdeedsHadbeenachiev'd，whereofallHellhadrung，HadnottheSnakieSorceressthatsatFastbyHellGate，andkeptthefatalKey，Ris'n，andwithhideousoutcryrush'dbetween。
　　OFather，whatintendsthyhand，shecry'd，AgainstthyonlySon?WhatfuryOSon，PossessestheetobendthatmortalDartAgainstthyFathershead?andknow'stforwhom；
　　ForhimwhositsaboveandlaughsthewhileAttheeordain'dhisdrudge，toexecuteWhate'rehiswrath，whichhecallsJustice，bids，Hiswrathwhichonedaywilldestroyyeboth。
　　Shespake，andatherwordsthehellishPestForbore，thenthesetoherSATANreturn'd:
　　Sostrangethyoutcry，andthywordssostrangeThouinterposest，thatmysuddenhandPreventedsparestotelltheeyetbydeedsWhatitintends；tillfirstIknowofthee，Whatthingthouart，thusdouble-form'd，andwhyInthisinfernalVailefirstmetthoucall'stMeFather，andthatFantasmcall'stmySon?
　　Iknowtheenot，noreversawtillnowSightmoredetestablethenhimandthee。