His laws our laws; all honour to him done So spake the fervent Angel; but his zeal 850 Th' Apostate, and more haughty thus reply'd. That we were form'd then say'st thou? and the work Of secondary hands, by task transferr'd From Father to his Son? Strange point and new! Doctrine which we would know whence learn'd: who saw When this creation was? Remember'st thou Thy making, while the Maker gave thee being? Our puissance is our own; our own right hand He said, and as the sound of waters deep 870 880 Hoarse murmur echo'd to his words applause When who can uncreate thee thou shalt know. Nor number, nor example with him wrought 890 900 To swerve from truth, or change his constant mind Though single. From amidst them forth he pass'd, Long way through hostile scorn, which he sustain'd Superior, nor of violence fear'd ought; And with retorted scorn his back he turn'd On those proud tow'rs to swift destruction doom'd. THE IND OF THE FIFTH BOOK. |