Page:Paradise Regained and Samson Agonistes (1671).djvu/212

 The sight of this so horrid spectacle Which earst my eyes beheld and yet behold; For dire imagination still persues me. But providence or instinct of nature seems, Or reason though disturb'd, and scarce consulted To have guided me aright, I know not how, To thee first reverend Manoa, and to these My Countreymen, whom here I knew remaining, As at some distance from the place of horrour, So in the sad event too much concern'd.
 * Man.The accident was loud, & before thee

With rueful cry, yet what it was we hear not, No Preface needs, thou seest we long to know.
 * Mess.It would burst forth, but I recover breath

And sense distract, to know well what I utter.
 * Man.Tell us the sum, the circumstance defer.
 * Mess.Gaza yet stands, but all her Sons are fall'n,

All in a moment overwhelm'd and fall'n.
 * Man.Sad, but thou knowst to Israelites not saddest

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