Page:Paradise lost by Milton, John.djvu/52

46 Or pinnace, anchors in a craggy bay After the tempest: such applause was heard As Mammon ended, and his sentence pleased, Advising peace, for such another field They dreaded worse than Hell; so much the fear Of thunder and the sword of Michaël Wrought still within them; and no less desire To found this nether empire, which might rise, By policy and long process of time, In emulation opposite to Heaven. Which when Beëlzebub perceived, than whom, Satan except, none higher sat, with grave Aspect he rose, and in his rising seemed A pillar of state; deep on his front engraven Deliberation sat, and public care; And princely counsel in his face yet shone, Majestic though in ruin. Sage he stood, With Atlantean shoulders, fit to bear The weight of mightiest monarchies; his look Drew audience and attention still as night Or summer's noontide air, while thus he spake:
 * "Thrones and imperial Powers, Offspring of Heaven,

Ethereal Virtues! or these titles now Must we renounce, and changing style be called Princes of Hell? for so the popular vote Inclines, hereto continue, and build up here A growing empire; doubtless! while we dream,