"Doubted his empire that were low indeed;

That were an ignominy and shame beneath

This downfall; since by fate the strength of Gods

And this empyreal substance cannot fail;

Since through experience of this great event

In arms not worse in foresight much advanced

We may with more successful hope resolve

To wage by force or guile eternal war

Irreconcilable to our grand Foe

Who now triumphs and in th' excess of joy

Sole reigning holds the tyranny of Heaven."

So spake th' apostate Angel though in pain

Vaunting aloud but racked with deep despair;

And him thus answered soon his bold compeer:

"O Prince O Chief of many throned Powers

That led th' embattled Seraphim to war

Under thy conduct and in dreadful deeds

Fearless endangered Heaven's perpetual King

And put to proof his high supremacy

Whether upheld by strength or chance or fate"