Page:Paradise lost by Milton, John.djvu/327

Rh Much wondering how the subtle Fiend had stolen Entrance unseen. Soon as the unwelcome news From Earth arrived at Heaven-gate, displeased All were who heard; dim sadness did not spare That time celestial visages, yet, mixed With pity, violated not their bliss. About the new-arrived in multitudes The ethereal people ran, to hear and know How all befell. They toward the throne supreme, Accountable, made haste to make appear With righteous plea their utmost vigilance, And easily approved; when the Most High Eternal Father, from his secret cloud Amidst, in thunder uttered thus his voice:
 * "Assembled Angels, and ye Powers returned

From unsuccessful charge, be not dismayed, Nor troubled at these tidings from the Earth, Which your sincerest care could not prevent; Foretold so lately what would come to pass, When first this Tempter crossed the gulf from Hell. I told ye then he should prevail, and speed On his bad errand; Man should be seduced And flattered out of all, believing lies Against his Maker, no decree of mine Concurring to necessitate his fall, Or touch with lightest moment of impulse