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+Project Gutenberg's Anti-Achitophel (1682), by Elkanah Settle et al.
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Anti-Achitophel (1682)
+       Three Verse Replies to Absalom and Achitophel by John Dryden
+
+Author: Elkanah Settle et al.
+
+Editor: Harold Whitmore Jones
+
+Release Date: June 6, 2006 [EBook #18517]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ANTI-ACHITOPHEL (1682) ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Louise Hope, David Starner, Suzanne Lybarger
+and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at
+http://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+  [Transcriber's Note:
+  Typographical errors are listed separately at the end of the Editor's
+  Introduction and each poem.]
+
+
+               _Anti-Achitophel_
+
+                     (1682)
+
+             THREE VERSE REPLIES TO
+
+    _Absalom and Achitophel_ by JOHN DRYDEN
+
+      _Absalom Senior_ by Elkanah Settle
+      _Poetical Reflections_ by Anonymous
+      _Azaria and Hushai_ by Samuel Pordage
+
+
+
+
+            Facsimile Reproductions
+
+          Edited with an Introduction
+                       by
+             HAROLD WHITMORE JONES
+
+              Gainesville, Florida
+        Scholars' Facsimiles & Reprints
+                      1961
+
+
+
+
+SCHOLARS' FACSIMILES & REPRINTS
+118 N.W. 26th Street
+Gainesville, Florida
+Harry R. Warfel, General Editor
+
+Reproduced from Copies in
+BRITISH MUSEUM
+UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA LIBRARY
+
+L. C. Catalog Card Number: 60-6430
+
+Manufactured in the U.S.A.
+Letterpress by J. N. Anzel, Inc.
+Photolithography by Edwards Brothers
+Binding by Universal-Dixie Bindery
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+English verse allegory, humorous or serious, political or moral, has
+deep roots; a reprint such as the present is clearly no place for a
+discussion of the subject at large:[1] it need only be recalled here
+that to the age that produced _The Pilgrim's Progress_ the art form was
+not new. Throughout his life Dryden had his enemies, Prior and Montague
+in their satire of _The Hind and the Panther_, for example. The general
+circumstances under which Dryden wrote _Absalom and Achitophel_,
+familiar enough and easily accessible, are therefore recalled only
+briefly below. Information is likewise readily available on his use of
+Biblical allegory.[2]
+
+    [Footnote 1: Cf. E. D. Leyburn, _Satiric Allegory, Mirror of Man_
+    (New Haven, 1956).]
+
+    [Footnote 2: e.g., _Absalom's Conspiracy_, a tract tracing how the
+    Bible story came to be used for allegorical purposes. See _The
+    Harleian Miscellany_ (1811), VIII, 478-479; and R. F. Jones, "The
+    Originality of 'Absalom and Achitophel,'" _Modern Language Notes_,
+    XLVI (April, 1931) 211-218.]
+
+We are here concerned with three representative replies to _Absalom
+and Achitophel_: their form, their authors, and details of their
+publication. Settle's poem was reprinted with one slight alteration
+a year after its first appearance; the _Reflections_ has since been
+reprinted in part, Pordage's poem not at all. _Absalom Senior_ has been
+chosen because, of the many verse pieces directed against Dryden's poem,
+it is of the greatest intrinsic merit and shows the reverse side of the
+medal, as it were, to that piece; the second is given, not for any
+literary merit it may possess--indeed, from its first appearance it has
+been dismissed as of small worth--but rather as a poem representative of
+much of the versifying that followed hard on the Popish Plot and as one
+that has inspired great speculation as to its author; the third, in
+addition to throwing light on the others, is a typical specimen of the
+lesser work produced in the Absalom dispute.
+
+The author and precise publication date of the _Reflections_ remain
+unidentified. Ascription of the poem to Buckingham rests ultimately on
+the authority of Wood's _Athenae Oxonienses_ and on Wood alone, and we
+do not know on what evidence he thought it to be Buckingham's; we do
+know, however, that Wood was often mistaken over such matters. Sir
+Walter Scott in his collected edition of Dryden (1808; IX, 272-5) also
+accepted Buckingham as the author, but cited no authority; he printed
+extracts, yet the shortcomings of his edition, whatever its convenience,
+are well known. The poem has not appeared in any subsequent edition of
+Dryden's poems, the latest being the four volume set (Oxford, 1958);
+the volume of the California Dryden[A] relevant to _Absalom_ is still
+awaited. Internal evidence is even more scanty. Only one passage of the
+_Reflections_ (sig. D2) may bear on the matter. Perhaps the "Three-fold
+Might" (p. 7, line 11) refers, not to the poet's "tripartite design"
+(p. 7, line 10) or to the Triple Alliance of England, Holland, and
+Sweden against France (1677/8, as in _Absalom and Achitophel_, line
+175) but either to a treatise which had occasioned some stir in the
+scientific world some twenty years previously: "the Delphic problem"
+proposed by Hobbes to the Royal Society on the duplication of the cube,
+which might have come to the ears of Buckingham as well as to those of
+the court,[3] or perhaps to the triple confederacy of Essex, Halifax,
+and Sunderland.[4] But to the Restoration reader the phrase "Three-fold
+Might" would rather have suggested the Triple Alliance, to which Dryden
+reverts in _The Medal_ (lines 65-68) when he claims that Shaftesbury,
+"thus fram'd for ill, ... loos'd our Triple Hold" on Europe.[5]
+
+    [Transcriber's Footnote (A):
+    This Introduction was written in 1959. Volume II of the California
+    Edition (_The Works of John Dryden_) was published in 1972.]
+
+    [Footnote 3: Hobbes, _English Works_ (1845), ed. by Molesworth, VII,
+    59-68.]
+
+    [Footnote 4: H. C. Foxcroft, _A Character of the Trimmer_
+    (Cambridge, England, 1946), p. 70. This book is an abridged
+    version of the same author's _Life and Works of Halifax_ (1897).]
+
+    [Footnote 5: Cf. the phrase "Twofold might" in _Absalom and
+    Achitophel_, I, 175.]
+
+Evidence against Buckingham's authorship, on the other hand, is
+comparatively strong. The piece does not appear in his collected _Works_
+(1704-5). It surely would have been included even though he had at first
+wished to claim any credit from its publication and later have wished to
+disown it. Little connection, furthermore, will be found between the
+_Reflections_ and the rest of his published verse or with the plays,
+including _The Rehearsal_, if the latter be his alone, which is
+doubtful.
+
+_Poetical Reflections_ has been ascribed to Edward Howard. W. Thomas
+Lowndes in his _Bibliographer's Manual_ (1864; II, 126) assigned to this
+minor writer, on the authority of an auction note, the little collection
+_Poems and Essays, with a Paraphrase on Cicero's Laelius, or, Of
+Friendship ... By a Gentleman_ (1674), and G. Thorn-Drury, on the
+equally debatable evidence of an anonymous manuscript ascription on
+the title page of his own copy, ascribed the _Poetical Reflections_ to
+Howard.[6] An examination of the _Poems and Essays_, however, reveals no
+point of resemblance with our poem. How, then, does Howard fit into the
+picture? He was in the rival camp to Dryden and was a friend of Martin
+Clifford[7] and of Thomas Sprat, then Buckingham's chaplain: these three
+have been thought to be jointly responsible for _The Rehearsal_. Sprat
+had published a poem of congratulation to Howard on Howard's _The
+British Princes_ (1669), the latter a long pseudo-epic of the Blackmore
+style in dreary couplets which, again, provides no parallel with the
+_Reflections_. And what of Howard's plays? Many of these were written
+in the 1660's during his poetic apprenticeship; none seems akin to our
+poem. Whereas, as shown in the Table of Allusions below, two independent
+readers often agreed over the identities of many characters in Settle's
+poem, Restoration readers at large were reticent over the authorship
+of the _Reflections_. Hugh Macdonald, in his useful _John Dryden: a
+Bibliography_ (1939), was wise to follow their example, and it seems
+rash, therefore, to propose any new candidate in the face of such
+negative evidence. The poem exists in two states, apparently differing
+only in the title page.
+
+    [Footnote 6: _Review of English Studies_, I (1925) 82-83.]
+
+    [Footnote 7: In his _Notes upon Mr. Dryden's Poems in Four Letters_
+    (1687) Clifford, in 16 pages, accuses Dryden of plagiarism,
+    especially in _Almanzor_.]
+
+Evidence of Settle's authorship of _Absalom Senior_, on the other hand,
+is neither wanting nor disputed. We have had to wait until our own
+century for the pioneer work on this writer, since he cannot have been
+considered a sufficiently major poet by Samuel Johnson's sponsors, and
+Langbaine's account is sketchy. In a periodical paper[8] Macdonald
+summarized supplementary evidence on the dates of composition of
+Settle's poem; he was working on it in January 1681/2, and it was
+published on the following April 6. Lockyer, Dean of Peterborough,
+asserted to Joseph Spence, who includes the rumor in _Anecdotes_, that
+Settle was assisted by Clifford and Sprat and by "several best hands of
+those times";[9] but Spence is notoriously unreliable. In the lack of
+other evidence, then, it seems best to take the poem as wholly Settle's.
+It needs only to add a few words on its textual states. The First
+Edition, here reproduced, seems to exist in a single impression, and
+likewise the Second Edition of the Settle (1682, in quarto) seems to
+have been struck off in a single textual state. Of its individual
+variants from the First Edition only the following seem of any
+significance and, since there is no reason to suppose that it was
+printed from any copy other than the First, they may be merely the
+result of carelessness.
+
+  FIRST EDITION                     SECOND EDITION
+
+  p. 3, line 4, enthron'd, with     inthron'd with
+     3       8, Arts ... steps      Art's ... step's
+    11      10, Rods;               Rods?
+    13      26, to Descend          do Descend
+    14      17, couch,              couch
+    29       9, Cedar               Cedars
+    31      21, Temples             Temple
+
+    [Footnote 8: "The Attacks on John Dryden," _Essays and Studies by
+    Members of the English Association_, XXI, 41-74.]
+
+    [Footnote 9: Joseph Spence, _Anecdotes ... of Books and Men_ (1858),
+    p. 51.]
+
+For "No Link ... night" (p. 35, lines 19-24), the Second Edition
+substitutes, for an undetermined reason, the following:
+
+  No less the Lordly Zelecks Glory sound
+  For courage and for Constancy renoun'd:
+  Though once in naught but borrow'd plumes adorn'd,
+  So much all servile Flattery he scorn'd;
+  That though he held his Being and Support,
+  By that weak Thread the Favour of a Court,
+  In Sanhedrims unbrib'd, he firmly bold
+  Durst Truth and Israels Right unmov'd uphold;
+  In spight of Fortune, still to Honour wed,
+  By Justice steer'd, though by Dependence fed.
+
+Very little can be said of Pordage's poem, beyond its date of
+publication (January 17, 1681/2)[10] and the fact that no parallel has
+been found with his earlier work. As no detailed study on him, published
+or unpublished, has been traced, we can only have recourse to the
+standard works on the period; data thus easily accessible are not
+therefore reproduced here. A so-called second edition (MacDonald 205b)
+is identical with the first.
+
+    [Footnote 10: _Modern Philology_, XXV (1928) 409-416.]
+
+In conclusion a few comments may be made on the general situation into
+which the poems fit. It will be remembered that _Absalom and Achitophel_
+appeared after the Exclusion Bill, the purpose of which was to debar
+James Duke of York from the Protestant succession, had been rejected by
+the House of Lords, mainly through the efforts of Halifax. Dryden's poem
+was advertised on November 17, 1681, and we may safely assume that it
+was published only a short time before Settle and our other authors
+were hired by the Whigs to answer it. Full details have not survived;
+one suspects Shaftesbury's Green Ribbon Club. That such replies were
+considered necessary testifies both to the popularity of _Absalom and
+Achitophel_ with the layman in politics and to the Whigs' fear of its
+harming their cause. Settle's was of course a mercenary pen, and it is
+amusing to note that after ridiculing Halifax here he was quite prepared
+to publish, fourteen years later, _Sacellum Apollinare: a Funeral Poem
+to the Memory of that Great Statesman, George Late Marquiss of Halifax_,
+and on this count his place among Pope's Dunces seems merited. In
+tracing his quarrel with Dryden up to the publication of _Absalom
+Senior_, critics have tended to overlook the fact that by 1680 there
+was already hostility between the two;[11] less has been said about
+the effect on Dryden of the poets themselves. The spleen of his
+contributions to the Second Part of _Absalom and Achitophel_ is
+essentially a manufactured one and for the public entertainment;
+personally he was comparatively unmoved--the Og portrait, for example,
+is less representative than his words in "The Epistle to the Whigs"
+prefixed to _The Medal_. Here, as in _Mac Flecknoe_, he appears to have
+been able to write vituperation to order. "I have only one favor to
+desire of you at parting," he says, and it is "that when you think of
+answering this poem, you would employ the same pens against it, who have
+combated with so much success against _Absalom and Achitophel_; for then
+you may assure yourselves of a clear victory, without the least reply."
+Is it for the best that this forecast proved the right one?
+
+    [Footnote 11: e.g., over _The Empress of Morocco_; see Scott's
+    _Dryden_, XV, 397-413.]
+
+For permission to reproduce their copies of texts comprising the present
+reprint thanks are expressed to the University of Florida Library
+(_Absalom Senior_) and to the Trustees of the British Museum (the other
+two poems). The University of Leeds and the City of Manchester Public
+Library are also thanked for leave to use contemporary marginalia in
+each's copy of Settle's poem. The provenance of the latter two copies
+of this piece is unknown; the first, now in the Brotherton Collection,
+bears the name William Crisp on its last blank leaf and, in abbreviated
+form, identifies some characters; the second, of unidentified ownership,
+is fuller.
+
+                        HAROLD WHITMORE JONES
+
+  _Liverpool, England
+
+    November_, 1959
+
+
+
+
+TABLE OF ALLUSIONS
+
+
+NAMES
+
+The persons and places referred to in the allegories are identified
+in the following lists of names. M indicates the ascription in the
+Manchester copy; B, that in the Leeds University copy. Within the list
+for each poem, names similarly used in _Absalom and Achitophel_ are
+omitted; those used with a different meaning are marked with an
+asterisk.
+
+ABSALOM SENIOR
+
+  *_Absalom_, Duke of York
+  *_Achitophel_, Halifax
+  *_Adriel_, Earl of Huntington
+   _Amasai_, Earl of Macclesfield (M, B)
+   _Amnon_, Godfrey
+  *_Amiel_, Buckingham (B)
+   _Amram_, Sir William Jones
+   _Arabia_, Portugal
+   _Ashur_, Fourth Lord Herbert of Cherbury (M)
+   _Babylon_, Rome
+   _Barak_, Drake
+  *_Barzillai_, Shaftesbury (B)
+  *_Caleb_, Laurence Hyde, son of Clarendon (B)
+   _Camries_, Third Lord Howard of Escrick (M)
+  *_Corah_, Sir Edward Seymour (B)
+   _Deborah_, Queen Elizabeth
+   _Endor_, Oxford (B)
+   _Geshur_, Ireland
+   _Hanaan_, Lord Nottingham
+   _Hazor_, Spain
+  *_Helon_, First Duke of Bedford
+  *_Hothriel_, Slingsby Bethell
+  *_Hushai_, Earl of Argyll
+   _Ithream_, Monmouth
+   _Jabin_, Philip II
+  *_Jonas_, ?Sir William Gregory (M glosses as Seymour; _see Corah_)
+  *_Jotham_, Earl of Essex
+   _Laura_, Anne Reeve
+   _Levitick chiefs_, English bishops (B)
+   _Micah_, Sir William Williams, Speaker of the Commons
+  *_Nadab_, Lauderdale
+  *_Shimei_, Jeffreys (B)
+   _Sidon_, Denmark
+   _Sisera_, Medina Sidonia
+   _Zeleck_, unidentified
+
+POETICAL REFLECTIONS
+
+  *_Amiel_, ?Finch, Lord Chancellor
+  *_Bathsheba_, ?Queen Catherine
+   _Nimrod_, Cromwell
+   _Tory Roger_, L'Estrange
+
+AZARIA AND HUSHAI
+
+   _Abidon_, unidentified
+   _Amalack_, ?Henry Hyde, son of Clarendon
+   _Amazia_, Charles II
+   _Aminadab, Ashur_, unidentified; _see_ Ashur _above_.
+   _Athalia_, Mary Queen of Scots
+   _Azaria_, Monmouth
+   _Azyad_, Sir Edmundbury Godfrey
+   _Bibbai_, L'Estrange
+   _Canaanites, Chemarim_, Papists
+   _Doeg_, Danby
+   _Edomites_, Irish
+   _Elam_, Lawrence Hyde, Earl of Rochester
+   _Eliab_, Lord Russell
+   _Eliakim_, Duke of York
+   _Elishama_, ?Macclesfield
+   _Elizur, Enan_, unidentified
+   _Essens_, nonconformists
+   _Gamaliel_, unidentified
+   _Gedaliah_, Edward Coleman
+   _Gibbar_, ?Lord Clifford
+   _Harim_, ?Lord Wharton
+   _Helon_, Bedford
+  *_Hushai_, Shaftesbury
+   _Jehosaphat_, Henry VII
+   _Jeptha_, see Settle, p. 21
+   _Jerusha_, Anne, Countess of Buccleuch
+   _Joash_, Charles I
+   _Jocoliah_, Lucy Walters
+  *_Jotham_, ?Halifax
+   _Libni_, Oates
+   _Muppim_, ?Lauderdale
+   _Nashai_, Essex
+   _Pagiel_, unidentified
+   _Pharisee_, high churchman
+   _Rehoboam_, unidentified
+  *_Shimei_, Dryden
+   _Zabed_, Cromwell
+   _Zattue_, unidentified
+
+
+REFERENCES
+
+Biblical parallels and parallels with _Absalom and Achitophel_ are
+omitted. The _Dedications_ of the poems can be compared with Dryden's
+in _Absalom and Achitophel_.
+
+ABSALOM SENIOR
+
+Page
+
+  3: _Barak_. The only borrowing in the poem from a popular seventeenth
+    century jest book, _Wits Recreations_ (1640), "Epigrams," no. 46,
+    "On Sir Fr. Drake": "The sun itself cannot forget/His fellow
+    traveller."
+
+  11: a _Jewish_ Renegade. Cardinal Philip Thomas Howard (B).
+
+  13: a Breaden God. Either a reference to transubstantiation (see also
+    II Kings 2-3 and II Chron. 34) or an allusion to the Meal Tub Plot
+    (1679).
+
+  16: a Cake of _Shew-bread_. In addition to the Biblical allusion,
+    perhaps a reference to the poisoning of the Holy Roman Emperor
+    Henry VII by the communion wafer.
+
+  17: in Possession. As this legal term is opposed to "reversion"
+    emendation is unnecessary.
+
+  19: to bear. There was a belief that Jeffreys was connected with
+    the Duchess of Portsmouth (B). The "Golden Prize" was perhaps
+    protestantism, to be suppressed under a secret provision of the
+    Treaty of Dover (1670).
+
+  19: Court-Drugster. Sir George Wakeman.
+
+  25: beautifyed. _OED_ notices this catachrestic form of "beatified"
+
+  32: All-be-devill'd Paper. Presumably that accusing Shaftsbury of
+    high treason.
+
+  34: A Cell. Eton.
+
+  37: Midnight Bawd. Mrs. Cellier.
+
+POETICAL REFLECTIONS
+
+  4: Ignoramus. the jury's verdict at Shaftesbury's trial.
+
+  5: the Joyner. Stephen Colledge.
+
+  9: motly Sight, read "Spight"?
+
+AZARIA AND HUSHAI
+
+  10: Power on _Amazia_. Read "of _Amazia_"?
+
+  19: allay'd. Read "ally'd"?
+
+  28: to board. Read "hoard"?
+
+  38: swifty back. So in all copies seen.
+
+
+[Erratum:
+
+  4: Ignoramus. The jury's verdict at Shaftesbury's trial.
+    _text reads "the jury's"_]
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+                Absalom Senior:
+                      or,
+                  ACHITOPHEL
+                  TRANSPROS'D.
+
+                       A
+                     POEM.
+
+         _Si Populus vult decipi_, &c.
+
+  [Illustration: Publisher's Device:
+  IL VOSTRO MALIGNARE NON GIOVA NVLLA]
+
+
+                    LONDON:
+
+Printed for _S. E._ and Sold by _Langley Curtis_,
+    at the Sign of Sir _Edmondbury Godfrey_,
+           near _Fleetbridge_. 1682.
+
+
+
+
+To the TORIES.
+
+_Gentlemen_, for so you all write your selves; and indeed you are your
+own Heralds, and Blazon all your Coats with _Honour_ and _Loyalty_ for
+your _Supporters_; nay, and you are so unconscionable too in that point,
+that you will allow neither of them in any other _Scutcheons_ but
+your own. But who has 'em, or has 'em not, is not my present business;
+onely as you profess your selves Gentlemen, to conjure you to give an
+Adversary fair play; and that if any person whatsoever shall pretend
+to be aggrieved by this POEM, or any part of it, that he would bear
+it patiently; since the Licentiousness of the first _Absolom_ and
+_Achitophel_ has been the sole occasion of the Liberty of This, I
+having only taken the Measure of My Weapon, from the Length of his;
+which by the Rules of Honour ought not to offend you; especially,
+since the boldness of that Ingenious Piece, was wholly taken from the
+Encouragement you gave the Author; and 'tis from that Boldness only that
+this POEM takes its Birth: for had not his daring Pen brought that Piece
+into the World, I had been so far from troubling my self in any Subject
+on this kind, that I may justly say in one sence, the Writer of that
+_Absolom_, is the Author of this. This favour, as in Justice due,
+obtain'd from you, I shall not trouble you with a long Preface, like
+a tedious Compliment at the Door, but desire you to look in for your
+Entertainment. Onely I cannot forbear telling you, that one thing I
+am a little concern'd for you, _Tories_, that your _Absoloms_ and
+_Achitophels_, and the rest of your Grinning Satyres against the
+_Whiggs_, have this one unpardonable Fault, That the Lash is more
+against a _David_, than an _Achitophel_; whilst the running down of the
+PLOT at so extravagant a rate, savours of very little less (pardon the
+Expression) than ridiculing of Majesty it self, and turning all those
+several Royal Speeches to the Parliament on that Subject, onely into
+those double-tongu'd Oracles that sounded one thing, and meant another.
+Besides, after this unmannerly Boldness, of not onely branding the
+publick Justice of the Nation, but affronting even the Throne it self,
+to push the humour a little farther, you run into ten times a greater
+Vice, (and in the same strain too) than what you so severely inveigh
+against: and whilst a POPISH PLOT through want of sufficient
+Circumstances, and credible Witnesses, miscarries with you, a PROTESTANT
+PLOT without either Witness or Circumstance at all, goes currant. Nay
+you are so far now from your former niceties and scruples, and disparing
+about raising of Armies, and not one Commission found, that you can
+swallow the raising of a whole Protestant ARMY, without either
+Commission, or Commission-Officer; Nay, the very When, Where, and How,
+are no part of your Consideration. 'Tis true, the great Cry amongst you,
+is, The Nations Eyes are open'd; but I am afraid, in most of you, 'tis
+onely to look where you like best: and to help your lewd Eye-sight, you
+have got a damnable trick of turning the Perspective upon occasion, and
+magnifying or diminishing at pleasure. But alas, all talking to you is
+but impertinent, and fending and proving signifie just nothing; for
+after all Arguments, both Parties are so irreconcileable, that as the
+Author of _Absolom_ wisely observed, they'll be Fools or Knaves to each
+other to the end of the Chapter. And therefore I am so reasonable in
+this point, that should be very glad to divide 'em between 'em, and give
+the Fool to the _Tory_, and the Knave to the _Whigg_. For the _Tories_
+that will believe no POPISH PLOT, may as justly come under that
+denomination, as They, that _David_ tells us, _said in their Hearts
+there was no God_. And then let the _Whiggs_ that do believe a _Popish
+Plot_ be the Knaves, for daring to endeavour to hinder the Effects of a
+_Popish Plot_, when the _Tories_ are resolved to the contrary. But to
+draw near a conclusion, I have one favour more to beg of you, that
+you'll give me the freedom of clapping but about a score of years
+extraordinary on the back of my _Absolom_. Neither is it altogether so
+unpardonable a Poetical License, since we find as great slips from the
+Author of your own _Absolom_, where we see him bring in a _Zimri_ into
+the Court of _David_, who in the Scripture-story dyed by the Hand of
+_Phineas_ in the days of _Moses_. Nay, in the other extream, we find him
+in another place talking of the Martyrdome of _Stephen_, so many Ages
+after. And if so famous an Author can forget his own Rules of Unity,
+Time, and Place, I hope you'll give a Minor Poet some grains of
+Allowance, and he shall ever acknowledge himself
+
+    Your Humble Servant.
+
+
+
+
+                Absalom Senior:
+
+                      or,
+
+            ACHITOPHEL TRANSPROS'D.
+
+
+In Gloomy Times, when Priestcraft bore the sway,
+And made Heav'ns Gate a Lock to their own Key:
+When ignorant Devotes did blindly bow,
+And groaping to be sav'd they knew not now:
+Whilst this _Egyptian_ darkness did orewhelm,
+The Priest sate Pilot even at Empires Helm.
+Then Royal Necks were yok'd, and Monarchs still
+Hold but their Crowns at his Almighty Will.
+And to defend this high Prerogative,
+Falsely from Heaven he did that powr derive:
+By a Commission forg'd i'th' hand of God,
+Turn'd _Aarons_ blooming wand, to _Moses_ snaky Rod.
+Whilst Princes little Scepters overpowr'd,
+Made but that prey his wider Gorge devour'd.
+Now to find Wealth might his vast pomp supply,
+(For costly Roofs befit a Lord so high)
+No Arts were spar'd his Luster to support,
+But all Mines searcht t'enrich his shining Court.
+Then Heav'n was bought, Religion but a Trade;
+And Temples Murder's Sanctuary made.
+By _Phineas_ Spear no bleeding _Cozbies_ groan'd,
+If _Cozbies_ Gold for _Cozbies_ Crimes aton'd.
+With these wise Arts, (for Humane Policy
+As well as Heav'nly Truth, mounts Priests so high)
+'Twixt gentle Penance, lazy Penitence,
+A Faith that gratifies both Soul and Sense;
+With easie steps to everlasting Bliss,
+He paves the rugged way to Paradice.
+Thus almost all the Proselyte-World he drives,
+Whilst th'universal Drones buz to his Hives.
+Implicite Faith Religion thus convey'd
+Through little pipes to his great Channel laid,
+Till Piety through such dark Conduits led,
+Was poyson'd by the Spring on which it fed.
+Here blind Obedience to a blinder Guide,
+Nurst that Blind Zeal that rais'd the Priestly pride;
+Whilst to make Kings the Sovereign Prelate own,
+Their Reason he enslav'd, and then their Throne.
+The Mitre thus above the Diadem soar'd,
+Gods humble servant He, but Mans proud Lord.
+It was in such Church-light blind-zeal was bred,
+By Faiths infatuating Meteor led;
+Blind Zeal, that can even Contradictions joyn;
+A Saint in Faith, in Life a Libertine;
+Makes Greatness though in Luxury worn down,
+Bigotted even to th' Hazard of a Crown;
+Ty'd to the Girdle of a Priest so fast,
+And yet Religious only to the wast.
+But Constancy atoning Constancy,
+Where that once raigns, Devotion may lye by.
+T'espouse the Churches Cause lyes in Heav'ns road,
+More than obeying of the Churches God.
+And he dares fight, for Faith is more renown'd
+A Zealot Militant, than Martyr crown'd.
+Here the Arch-Priest to that Ambition blown,
+Pull'd down Gods Altars, to erect his own:
+For not content to publish Heav'ns command,
+The Sacred Law penn'd by th'Almighty Hand,
+And _Moses_-like 'twixt God and _Israel_ go,
+Thought _Sinai_'s Mount a Pinacle too low.
+So charming sweet were Incense fragrant Fumes, }
+So pleas'd his Nostrils, till th'Aspirer comes }
+From offering, to receiving Hecatombs;         }
+And ceasing to adore, to be ador'd.
+So fell Faiths guide: so loftily he towr'd,
+Till like th'Ambitious _Lucifer_ accurst,
+Swell'd to a God, into a Fiend he burst.
+
+  But as great _Lucifer_ by falling gain'd
+Dominion, and ever in Damnation reign'd;
+And though from Lights blest Orb for ever driven,   }
+Yet Prince o'th'Air, h'had that vast Scepter giv'n, }
+T'have Subjects far more numerous than Heav'n.      }
+And thus enthron'd, with an infernal spight,
+The genuine Malice of the Realms of night,
+The Paradise he lost blasphemes, abhors,
+And against Heav'n proclaims Eternal Wars;
+No Arts untry'd, no hostile steps untrod,
+Both against Truths Adorers, and Truths God.
+
+  So Faiths faln Guide, now _Baals_ great Champion raign'd;
+Wide was his Sway, and Mighty his Command:
+Whilst with implacable revenge he burn'd,
+And all his Rage against Gods _Israel_ turn'd.
+Here his invenom'd Souls black gall he flings,
+Spots all his Snakes, and points his Scorpions stings:
+Omits no Force, or Treacherous Designe,
+Blest _Israel_ to assault, or undermine.
+But the first Sword did his keen Malice draw,
+Was aim'd against the God-like _Deborah.
+Deborah_, the matchless pride of _Judah_'s Crown,
+Whose Female hand _Baal's_ impious Groves cut down,
+His banisht Wizards from her _Israel_ thrust,
+And pounded all their Idols into dust.
+Her Life with indefatigable pain,
+By Daggers long, and poysons fought in vain:
+At length they angry _Jabins_ Rage enflam'd,
+_Hazors_ proud King, for Iron Chariots fam'd;
+A Warriour powerful, whose most dreadful Hoast
+Proclaim'd Invincible, (were humane Boast
+Infallible) by haughty _Sisera_ led,
+'Gainst _Deborah_ their bloody Banners spread.
+Here _Deborah_ her _Barak_ calls to War;
+_Barak_, the Suns fam'd fellow-traveller,
+Who wandring o're the Earths surrounded Frame,
+Had travelled far as his great Mistress Fame.
+Here _Barak_ did with _Deborah's_ vengeance fly,
+And to that swift prodigious Victory,
+So much by Humane Praises undefin'd,
+That Fame wants Breath, and Wonder lags behind.
+To Heav'ns high Arch her sounding Glories rung,
+Whilst thus great _Deborah_ and _Barak_ sung.
+
+_Hear, oh ye Princes, oh ye Kings give Ear,
+And _Israels_ great Avengers honour hear.
+When God of Hosts, thou _Israels_ Spear and Shield,
+Wentst out of _Seir_, and marched'st from _Edoms_ field,
+Earth trembled, the Heaven's drop'd, the Clouds all pour'd;
+The Mountains melted from before the Lord;
+Even thy own _Sinai_ melted into streams,
+At _Israels_ dazling Gods refulgent Beams.
+In _Shamgar_ and in _Jael's_ former days,
+The wandring Traveller walked through by-ways.
+They chose new Gods. No Spear nor Sword was found,
+To have Idolatry depos'd, Truth Crown'd,
+Till I alone, against _Jehovahs_ Foes;
+I _Deborah_, I _Israels_ Mother rose.
+Wake _Deborah_, wake, raise thy exalted Head;
+Rise _Barak_, and Captivity Captive lead.
+For to blest _Deborah_, belov'd of Heav'n,
+Over the Mighty is Dominion given.
+Great _Barak_ leads, and _Israels_ Courage warms;
+_Ephraim_ and _Benjamin_ march down in Arms:
+_Zebulon_ and _Nepthali_ my Thunder bore,
+_Dan_ from her Ship, and _Asher_ on the Shore.
+Behold _Megiddoes_ waves, and from afar,
+See the fierce _Jabins_ threatning storm of War.
+But Heav'n 'gainst _Sisera_ fought, and the kind Stars
+Kindl'd their embattel'd Fires for _Deborah's_ Wars,
+Shot down their Vengeance that miraculous day,
+When _Kishons_ Torrants swept their Hosts away.
+But curse ye _Meroz_, curse 'em from on high.
+Did the denouncing voice of Angels cry;
+Accurst be they that went not out t'oppose
+The Mighty _Deborah's_, God's, and _Israel's_ Foes.
+Victorious _Judah!_ Oh my Soul, th'hast trod,
+Trod down their strengths. So fall the Foes of God.
+But they who in his Sacred Laws delight,
+Be as the Sun when he sets out in might._
+
+Thus sung, they conquer'd _Deborah_; thus fell
+Hers, and Heav'ns Foes. But no Defeat tames Hell.
+By Conquest overthrown, but not dismay'd,
+'Gainst _Israel_ still their private Engines play'd.
+And their dire Machinations to fulfil,
+Their stings torn out, they kept their poyson still.
+And now too weak in open force to joyn,
+In close Cabals they hatcht a damn'd Design,
+To light that Mine as should the world amaze,
+And set the ruin'd _Israel_ in a blaze.
+
+  When _Judahs_ Monarch with his Princes round,
+Amidst his glorious Sanedrim sate Crown'd,
+Beneath his Throne a Cavern low, and dark
+As their black Souls, for the great Work they mark.
+In this lone Cell their Midnight-Hands bestow'd
+A _Stygian_ Compound, a combustive load
+Of Mixture wondrous, Execution dire,
+Ready the Touch of their Infernal Fire.
+Have you not seen in yon æthereal Road,
+How at the Rage of th'angry driving God,
+Beneath the pressure of his furious wheels
+The Heav'ns all rattle, and the Globe all reels?
+So does this Thunder's Ape its lightning play,
+Keen as Heav'ns Fires, and scarce less swift than they.
+A short-liv'd glaring Murderer it flies,                   }
+In Times least pulse, a Moments wing'd surprize;           }
+'Tis born, looks big, talks lowd, breaths death, and dies. }
+This Mixture was th'Invention of a Priest;
+The Sulphurous Ingredients all the best
+Of Hells own growth: for to dire Compounds still
+Hell finds the Minerals, and the Priest the Skill.
+
+  From this curst Mine they had that blow decreed,
+A Moments dismal blast, as should exceed
+All the Storms, Battles, Murders, Massacres,
+And all the strokes of Daggers, Swords, or Spears,
+Since first _Cain's_ hand at _Abels_ Head was lift:
+A Blow more swift than Pestilence, more swift
+Than ever a destroying Angel rod,
+To pour the Vial of an angry God.
+
+  The Train was laid, the very Signal giv'n;
+But here th'all-seeing, _Israels_ Guardian, Heav'n
+Could hold no longer; and to stop their way,
+With a kind Beam from th'Empyræan Day,
+Disclos'd their hammering Thunder at the Forge;
+And made their Cyclops Cave their Bolts disgorge.
+
+  Discover'd thus, thus lost, betray'd, undone,
+Yet still untir'd, the Restless Cause goes on;
+And to retrieve a yet auspicious day,
+A glowing spark even in their Ashes lay,
+Which thus burst out in flames. In _Geshur_ Land,
+The utmost Bound of _Israels_ Command,
+Where _Judah's_ planted Faith but slowly grew,
+A Brutal Race that _Israels_ God n'er knew:
+A Nation by the Conquerors Mercy grac'd,
+Their Gods preserv'd, and Temples undefac'd;
+Yet not content with all the Sweets of Peace,
+Free their Estates, and free their Consciences;
+'Gainst _Israel_ those confederate Swords they drew,
+Which with that vast Assassination flew
+Two hundred thousand Butcher'd Victims shar'd
+One common doom: No Sex nor Age was spar'd:
+Not kneeling Beauties Tears, not Virgins Cries,
+Nor Infants Smiles: No prey so small but dies.
+Alas, the hard-mouth'd Blood-hound, Zeal, bites through;
+Religion hunts, and hungry Jaws pursue.
+To what strange Rage is Superstition driven,
+That Man can outdo Hell to fight for Heav'n!
+So Rebel _Geshur_ fought: so drown'd in gore,
+Even Mother Earth blusht at the Sons she bore;
+And still asham'd of her old staining Brand,
+Her Head shrinks down and Quagmires half their Land.
+Yet not this blow _Baals_ Empire could enlarge
+For _Israel_ still was Heav'ns peculiar charge:
+Unshaken still in all this Scene of Blood,
+Truths Temple firm on Golden Columns stood.
+Whilst _Sauls_ Revenging Arm proud _Geshur_ scourg'd,
+From their rank soyl their _Hydra's_ poyson purg'd.
+
+  Yet does not here their vanquish'd spleen give o're,
+But as untir'd, and restless as before,
+Still through whole waiting Ages they outdo
+At once the Chimists pains and patience too.
+Who though he sees his bursting Limbecks crack,
+And at one blast, one fatal Minutes wrack,
+The forward Hopes of sweating years expire;
+With sad, yet painful hand new lights his Fire:
+Pale, lean, and wan, does Health, Wealth, all consume;
+Yet for the great Elixir still to come,
+Toyls and hopes on. No less their Plottings cease;
+So hope, so toyl, the foes of _Israels_ peace.
+
+  When lo, a long expected day appears,
+Sought for above a hundred rowling years;
+A day i'th' register of Doom set down,
+Presents 'em with an Heir of _Israels_ Crown.
+Here their vast hopes of the rich _Israels_ spoils,
+Requites the pains of their long Ages Toyls.
+_Baals_ Banners now i'th' face of day shall march,
+With Heav'ns bright Roof for his Triumphal Arch.
+His lurking Missioners shall now no more
+From Forreign Schools in borrow'd shapes come o're;
+Convert by Moon-light, and their Mystick Rites
+Preach to poor Female half-Soul'd Proselytes.
+An all-commanding Dragon now shall soar,
+Where the poor Serpents onely crawl'd before.
+_Baals_ Restoration, that most blest Design, }
+Now the great work of Majesty, shall shine,  }
+Made by his consecrating hand Divine.        }
+He shall new plant their Groves with each blest Tree,
+A graft of an Imperial Nursery.
+In the kind Air of this new _Eden_ blest,
+Percht on each bough, and Palaces their nest;
+No more by frighting Laws forc'd t'obscure flight,
+And gloomy walks, like obscene Birds of Night;
+Their warbling Notes like _Philomel_ shall sing,
+And like the Bird of _Paradise_ their wing.
+Thus _Israels_ Heir their ravisht Souls all fired;
+For all things to their ardent hopes conspired.
+
+  His very youth a Bigot Mother bred,
+And tainted even the Milk on which he fed.
+Him onely of her Sons design'd for _Baals_
+Great Champion 'gainst _Jerusalems_ proud Walls;
+Him dipt in _Stygian_ Lake, by timely craft,
+Invulnerable made against Truths pointed shaft.
+But to confirm his early poyson'd Faith,
+'Twas in the cursed Forreign Tents of _Gath_,
+'Twas there that he was lost. There _Absolon_
+By _Davids_ fatal Banishment undone,
+Saw their false Gods till in their Fires he burn'd,
+Truths Manna, for _Egyptian_ Fleshpots, scorn'd.
+Not _David_ so; for he Faiths Champion Lord,
+Their Altars loath'd, and prophane Rites abhorr'd:
+Whilst his firm Soul on wings of _Cherubs_ rod,
+And tun'd his Lyre to nought but _Abrahams_ God.
+Thus the gay _Israel_ her long Tears quite dry'd,
+Her restor'd _David_ met in all her Pride,
+Three Brothers saw by Miracle brought back,
+Like _Noahs_ Sons sav'd from the worlds great wrack;
+An unbelieving _Ham_ graced on each hand,
+'Twixt God-like _Shem_, and pious _Japhet_ stand.
+
+  'Tis true, when _David_, all his storms blown o're,
+Wafted by Prodigies to _Jordans_ shore,
+(So swift a Revolution, yet so calm)
+Had cur'd an Ages wounds with one days Balm;
+Here the returning _Absolon_ his vows
+With _Israel_ joyns, and at their Altars bows.
+Perhaps surpriz'd at such strange blessings showr'd,
+Such wonders shewn both t'_Israels_ Faith, and Lord,
+His Restoration-Miracle he thought
+Could by no less than _Israels_ God be wrought.
+Whilst the enlightened _Absolon_ thus kneels,
+Thus dancing to the sound of _Aarons_ Bells,
+What dazling Rays did _Israels_ Heir adorn,
+So bright his Sun in his unclouded Morn!
+'Twas then his leading hand in Battle drew
+That Sword that _Davids_ fam'd ten thousand slew:
+_Davids_ the Cause, but _Absolons_ the Arm.
+Then he could win all Hearts, all Tongues could charm:
+Whilst with his praise the ecchoing plains all rung,
+A thousand Timbrels play'd, a thousand Virgins sung;
+And in the zeal of every jocund Soul,
+_Absolons_ Health with _Davids_ crown'd one Bowl.
+
+  Had he fixt here, yes, Fate, had he fixt here,
+To Man so Sacred, and to Heav'n so dear,
+What could he want that Hands, Hearts, Lives could pay,
+Or Tributary Worlds beneath his feet could lay?
+What Knees, what Necks to mount him to his Throne;
+What Gems, what Stars to sparkle in his Crown?
+So pleas'd, so charm'd, had _Israels_ Genius smil'd;
+But oh the Pow'rs, by treacherous snakes beguil'd,
+Into a more than _Adams_ Curse he run,
+Tasting that Fruit has _Israels_ World undone.
+Nay, wretched even below his falling state,
+Wants _Adams_ Eyes to see his _Adams_ Fate.
+In vain was _Davids_ Harp and _Israels_ Quire;
+For his Conversion all in vain conspire:
+For though their influence a while retires,
+His own false Planets were th'Ascendant Fires.
+Heav'n had no lasting Miracle design'd;
+It did a while his fatal Torrent bind.
+As _Joshua's_ Wand did _Jordan's_ streams divide,
+And rang'd the watry Mountains on each side.
+But when the marching _Israel_ once got o're,    }
+Down crack the Chrystal Walls the Billows pow'r, }
+And in their old impetuous Channel roar.         }
+
+  At this last stroke thus totally o'rethrown,
+Apostasie now seal'd him all her own.
+Here ope'd that gaping Breach, that fatal door,
+Which now let in a thousand Ruines more.
+All the bright Virtues, and each dazling Grace,
+Which his rich Veins drew from a God-like Race;
+The Mercy, and the Clemency Divine,
+Those Sacred Beams which in mild _David_ shine;
+Those Royal Sparks, his Native Seeds of Light,
+Were all put out, and left a Starless Night.
+A long farewel to all that's Great and Brave:
+Not Cataracts more headstrong; as the Grave
+Inexorable; Sullen and Untun'd
+As Pride depos'd; scarce _Lucifer_ dethron'd
+More Unforgiving; his enchanted Soul
+Had drank so deep of the bewitching Bowl,
+Till he whose hand, with _Judahs_ Standart, bore
+Her Martial Thunder to the _Tyrian_ shore,
+Arm'd in her Wars, and in her Laurels crown'd;
+Now all forgotten at one stagg'ring wound,
+Falling from _Israels_ Faith; from _Israels_ Cause,
+Peace, Honour, Int'rest, all at once withdraws:
+Nor is he deaf t'a Kingdoms Groans alone,
+But could behold ev'n _Davids_ shaking Throne;
+_David_, whose Bounty rais'd his glittering Pride,
+The Basis of his Glories Pyramide.
+But Duty, Gratitude, all ruin'd fall:
+Zeal blazes, and Oblivion swallows all.
+So _Sodom_ did both burnt and drown'd expire;
+A poyson'd Lake succeeds a Pile of Fire.
+
+  On this Foundation _Baals_ last Hope was built,
+The sure Retreat for all their Sallying Guilt:
+A Royal Harbour, where the rowling Pride
+Of _Israels_ Foes might safe at Anchor ride;
+Defie all Dangers, and even Tempests scorn,
+Though _Judahs_ God should Thunder in the Storm.
+
+  Here _Israels_ Laws, the dull Levitick Rolls,
+At once a clog to Empire, and to Souls,
+Are the first Martyrs to the Fire they doom,
+To make great _Baals_ Triumphant Legends room.
+But ere their hands this glorious work can Crown,
+Their long-known Foe the Sanedrin must down;
+Sanedrins the Free-born _Israels_ Sacred Right,
+That God-like Ballance of Imperial Might;
+Where Subjects are from Tyrant-Lords set free,
+_From that wild Thing unbounded man would be_;
+Where Pow'r and Clemency are poys'd so even,
+A Constitution that resembles Heav'n.
+So in th'united great THREE-ONE we find
+A Saving with a Dooming Godhead joyn'd.
+(But why, oh why! if such restraining pow'r
+Can bind Omnipotence, should Kings wish more?)
+A Constitution, so Divinely mixt,
+Not Natures bounded Elements more fixt.
+Thus Earths vast Frame with firm and solid ground, }
+Stands in a foaming Ocean circled round;           }
+Yet This not overflowing, That not drown'd.        }
+But to rebuild their Altars, and enstal
+Their Moulten Gods, the Sanedrin must fall;
+That Constellation of the Jewish Pow'r,
+All blotted from its Orb must shine no more;
+Or stampt in _Pharoahs_ darling Mould, must quit
+Their Native Beams, for a new-model'd Light;
+Like _Egypts_ Sanedrins, their influence gone,
+Flash but like empty Meteors round the Throne:
+That that new Lord may _Judahs_ Scepter weild,
+To whom th'old Brickill Taskmasters must yield;
+Who, to erect new Temples for his Gods,
+Shall th'enslav'd _Israel_ drive with Iron Rods;
+If they want Bricks for his new Walls t'aspire,
+To their sad cost, he'll find 'em Straw and Fire.
+
+  All this t'effect, and their new Fabrick build,
+Both close Cabals and Forreign Leagues are held:
+To _Babylon_ and _Egypt_ they send o're,
+And both their Conduct and their Gold implore.
+By such Abettors the sly Game was plaid;
+One of their Chiefs a Jewish Renegade,
+High-born in _Israel_, one _Michals_ Priest,
+But now in _Babylons_ proud Scarlet drest.
+'Tis to his Hands the Plotting Mandats come
+Subscrib'd by the Apostate _Absolom_.
+Nay, and to keep themselves all danger-proof,
+That none might track the _Belial_ by his Hoof,
+Their Correspondence veil'd from prying Eyes,
+In Hieroglyphick Figures they disguise.
+Husht as the Night, in which their Plots combin'd,
+And silent as the Graves they had design'd,
+Their Ripening Mischiefs to perfection sprung.
+But oh! the much-loath'd _David_ lives too long.
+Their Vultures cannot mount but from his Tomb;
+And with too hungry ravenous Gorges come,
+To be by airy Expectation fed.
+No Prey, no Spoil, before they see Him Dead.
+Yes, Dead; the Royal Sands too slowly pass,
+And therefore they're resolved to break the Glass:
+And to ensure Times tardy dubious Call,
+Decree their Daggers should his Sythe forestall.
+For th'execrable Deed a Hireling Crew
+Their Hell and They pick out; whom to make true,
+An Oath of Force so exquisite they frame,
+Sworn in the Blood of _Israels_ Paschal Lamb.
+If false, the Vengeance of that Sword that slew
+_Egypts_ First-born, their perjur'd Heads pursue.
+Strong was the Oath, the Imprecation dire;
+And for a Viand, lest their Guilt should tire,
+With promis'd Paradice they cheer their way;
+And bold's the Souldier who has Heav'n his pay.
+
+  But the ne'r-sleeping Providence that stands
+With jealous Eyes o're Truths up-lifted Hands;
+That still in its Lord _Israel_ takes delight,
+Their Cloud by Day, and Guardian Fire by Night;
+A Ray from out its Fiery Pillar cast,
+That overlook'd their driving _Jehu_'s hast.
+All's ruin'd and betray'd: their own false Slaves            }
+Detect the Plot, and dig their Masters Graves:               }
+Not Oaths nor Bribes shall bind, when great _Jehovah_ saves. }
+The frighted _Israelites_ take the Alarm,
+Resolve the Traitors Sorceries t'uncharm:
+Till cursing, raving, mad, and drunk with Rage,
+In _Amnons_ Blood their frantick Hands engage.
+
+  Here let the Ghost of strangl'd _Amnon_ come,
+A Specter that will strike Amazement dumb;
+_Amnon_ the Proto-Martyr of the Plot,
+The Murder'd _Amnon_, their Eternal Blot;
+Whose too bold zeal stood like a _Pharos_ Light,
+_Israel_ to warn, and track their Deeds of Night.
+Till the sly Foe his unseen Game to play,
+Put out the Beacon to secure his way.
+_Baals_ Cabinet-Intrigues he open spread,
+The Ravisht _Tamar_ for whose sake he bled.
+T'unveil their Temple and expose their Gods,
+Deserv'd their vengeances severest Rods:
+Wrath he deserv'd, and had the Vial full,
+To lay those Devils had possest his Soul.
+His silenc'd Fiends from his wrung Neck they twist;
+Whilst his kind Murd'rer's but his Exorcist.
+Here draw, bold Painter, (if thy Pencil dare
+Unshaking write, what _Israel_ quak'd to hear,)
+A Royal Altar pregnant with a Load
+Of Humane Bones beneath a Breaden God.
+Altars so rich not _Molocks_ Temples show;
+'Twas Heaven above, and _Golgotha_ below.
+Yet are not all the Mystick Rites yet done:
+Their pious Fury does not stop so soon.
+But to pursue the loud-tongu'd Wounds they gave,
+Resolves to stab his Fame beyond the Grave,
+And in Eternal Infamy to brand
+With _Amnons_ Murder, _Amnons_ righteous Hand.
+Here with a Bloodless wound, by Hellish Art,
+With his own Sword they goar his Lifeless Heart.
+Thus in a Ditch the butcher'd _Amnon_ lay,
+A Deed of Night enough to have kept back the Day.
+Had not the Sun in Sacred vengeance rose,
+Asham'd to see, but prouder to disclose,
+Warm'd with new Fires, with all his posting speed,
+Brought Heav'ns bright Lamp to shew th'Infernal Deed.
+
+  What art thou, Church! when Faith to propagate,
+And crush all Bars that stop thy growing state,
+Thou break'st through Natures, Gods, and Humane Laws,
+Whilst Murder's Merit in a Churches Cause.
+How much thy Ladder _Jacobs_ does excel:
+Whose Top's in Heaven like His, but Foot in Hell;
+Thy Causes bloody Champions to befriend,
+For Fiends to Mount, as Angels to Descend.
+
+  This was the stroke did th'alarm'd World surprize,
+And even to infidelity lent Eyes:
+Whilst sweating _Absolon_ in _Israel_ pent,
+For fresher Air was to bleak _Hebron_ sent.
+Cold _Hebron_ warm'd by his approaching sight,
+Flusht with his Gold, and glow'd with new delight.
+Till Sacred all-converting Interest
+To Loyalty, their almost unknown Guest,
+Oped a broad Gate, from whence forth-issuing come,
+Decrees, Tests, Oaths, for well-sooth'd _Absolom_.
+Spight of that Guilt that made even Angels fall,
+An unbarr'd Heir shall Reign: In spight of all
+Apostacy from Heav'n, or Natures tyes,
+Though for his Throne a _Cain_-built Palace rise.
+No wonder _Hebron_ such Devotion bears
+T'Imperial Dignity, and Royal Heirs;
+For they, whom Chronicle so high renowns
+For selling Kings, should know the price of Crowns.
+
+  Here, Glorious _Hushai_, let me mourn thy Fate,
+Thou once great Pillar of the _Hebron_ State:
+Yet now to Dungeons sent, and doom'd t'a Grave.
+But Chains are no new Sufferings to the Brave.
+Witness thy pains in six years Bonds endur'd,
+For _Israels_ Faith, and _Davids_ Cause immur'd.
+Death too thou oft for _Judahs_ Crown hast stood,
+So bravely fac'd in several Fields of Blood.
+But from Fames Pinnacle now headlong cast,
+Life, Honour, all are ruin'd at a Blast.
+For _Absolons_ great LAW thou durst explain;
+Where but to pry, bold Lord, was to prophane:
+A Law that did his Mystick God-head couch,
+Like th'Ark of God, and no less Death to touch.
+Forgot are now thy Honourable Scars,
+Thy Loyal Toyls, and Wounds in _Judahs_ Wars.
+Had thy pil'd Trophies _Babel_-high, reacht Heav'n,
+Yet by one stroke from _Absolons_ Thunder given,
+Thy towring Glorie's levell'd to the ground;    }
+A stroke does all thy Tongues of Fame confound, }
+And, Traitor, now is all the Voice they sound.  }
+True, thou hadst Law; that even thy Foes allow;
+But to thy Advocates, as damn'd as Thou,
+'Twas Death to plead it. Artless _Absolon_
+The Bloody Banner to display so soon:
+Such killing Beams from thy young Day-break shot;
+What will the Noon be, if the Morn's so hot?
+Yes, dreadful Heir, the Coward _Hebron_ awe.
+So the young Lion tries his tender Paw.
+At a poor Herd of feeble Heifers flies,
+Ere the rough Bear, tusk'd Boar, or spotted Leopard dies.
+Thus flusht, great Sir, thy strength in _Israel_ try:
+When their Cow'd Sanedrims shall prostrate lye,
+And to thy feet their slavish Necks shall yield;
+Then raign the Princely Savage of the Field.
+
+  Yes, _Israels_ Sanedrin, 'twas they alone
+That set too high a Value on a Throne;
+Thought they had a God was Worthy to be serv'd;
+A Faith maintain'd, and Liberty preserv'd.
+And therefore judg'd, for Safety and Renown
+Of _Israels_ People, Altars, Laws and Crown,
+Th'Anointing Drops on Royal Temples shed
+Too precious Showrs for an Apostates Head.
+Then was that great Deliberate Councel giv'n,
+An Act of Justice both to Man and Heav'n,
+_Israels_ conspiring Foes to overthrow,
+That _Absolon_ should th'Hopes of Crowns forego.
+Debarr'd Succession! oh that dismal sound!
+A sound, at which _Baal_ stagger'd, and Hell groan'd;
+A sound that with such dreadful Thunder falls,
+'Twas heard even to _Semiramis_ trembling Walls.
+
+  But hold! is this the Plots last Murd'ring Blow,
+The dire divorce of Soul and Body? No.
+The mangled Snake, yet warm, to Life they'll bring,
+And each disjoynted Limb together cling.
+Then thus _Baals_ wise consulting Prophets cheer'd
+Their pensive Sons, and call'd the scatter'd Herd.
+
+  Are we quite ruin'd! No, mistaken Doom,
+Still the great Day, yes that great Day shall come,
+(Oh, rouse our fainting Sons, and droop no more.)
+A Day, whose Luster, our long Clouds blown o're,
+Not all the Rage of _Israel_ shall annoy,
+No, nor denouncing Sanedrims destroy.
+See yon North-Pole, and mark _Boötes Carr_:
+Oh! we have those Influencing Aspects there,
+Those Friendly pow'rs that drive in that bright _Wain_,
+Shall redeem All, and our lost Ground regain.
+Whilst to our Glory their kind Aid stands fast,
+But one Plot more, our Greatest and our Last.
+
+  Now for a Product of that subtle kind,
+As far above their former Births refin'd,
+As Firmamental Fires t'a Tapers ray,
+Or Prodigies to Natures common Clay.
+Empires in Blood, or Cities in a Flame,
+Are work for vulgar Hands, scarce worth a Name.
+A Cake of _Shew-bread_ from an Altar ta'ne,
+Mixt but with some Levitical King-bane,
+Has sent a Martyr'd Monarch to his Grave.
+Nay, a poor Mendicant Church-Rake-hell slave
+Has stab'd Crown'd Heads; slight Work to hands well-skill'd,
+Slight as the Pebble that _Goliah_ kill'd.
+But to make Plots no Plots, to clear all Taints,
+Traitors transform to Innocents, Fiends to Saints,
+Reason to Nonsence, Truth to Perjury;
+Nay, make their own attesting Records lye,
+And even the gaping Wounds of Murder whole:
+If this last Masterpiece requires a Soul.
+Guilt to unmake, and Plots annihilate,
+Is much a greater work than to create.
+Nay both at once to be, and not to be,
+Is such a Task would pose a Deity.
+Let _Baal_ do this, and be a God indeed:
+Yes, this Immortal Honour 'tis decreed,
+His Sanguine Robe though dipt in reeking Gore,
+With purity and Innocence all o're,
+Shall dry, and spotless from the purple hue,
+The Miracle of _Gideons_ Fleece outdo.
+Yes, they're resolv'd, in all their foes despight,
+To wash their more than _Ethiop_ Treason White.
+
+  But now for Heads to manage the Design,
+Fit Engineers to labour in this Mine.
+For their own hands 'twere fatal to employ:
+Should _Baal_ appear, it would _Baals_ Cause destroy.
+Alas, should onely their own Trumpets sound
+Their Innocence, the jealous Ears around
+All Infidels would the loath'd Charmer fly,
+And through the Angels voice the Fiend descry.
+No, this last game wants a new plotting Set,
+And _Israel_ only now can _Israel_ cheat.
+In this Machine their profest Foes must move,
+Whilst _Baal_ absconding sits in Clouds above,
+From whence unseen he guides their bidden way:
+For he may prompt, although he must not play.
+This to effect a sort of Tools they find,
+Devotion-Rovers, an Amphibious Kind,
+Of no Religion, yet like Walls of Steel
+Strong for the Altars where their Princes kneel.
+Imperial not Celestial is their Test,
+The Uppermost, indisputably Best.
+They always in the golden Chariot rod,
+Honour their Heav'n, and Interest their God.
+
+  Of these then subtil _Caleb_ none more Great,
+_Caleb_ who shines where his lost Father set;
+Got by that sire, who not content alone,    }
+To shade the brightest Jewel in a Crown,    }
+Preaching Ingratitude t'a Court and Throne; }
+But made his Politicks the baneful Root
+From whence the springing Woes of _Israel_ shoot,
+When his Great Masters fatal _Gordian_ tyed,
+He lai'd the barren _Michal_ by his side;
+That the ador'd _Absolons_ immortal Line
+Might on _Judeas_ Throne for ever shine.
+_Caleb_, who does that hardy Pilot make,  }
+Steering in that Hereditary Track,        }
+Blind to the Sea-Mark of a Fathers Wrack. }
+
+  Next _Jonas_ stands bull-fac'd, but chicken-soul'd,
+Who once the silver Sanedrin Controul'd,
+Their Gold-tip'd Tongue; Gold his great Councels Bawd:
+Till by succeeding Sanedrins outlaw'd,
+He was prefer'd to guard the sacred Store:
+There Lordly rowling in whole Mines of Oar;
+To Diceing Lords, a Cully-Favourite,
+He prostitutes whole _Cargoes_ in a Night.
+Here to the Top of his Ambition come,
+Fills all his Sayls for hopeful _Absolom._
+For his Religion's as the Season calls,
+Gods in Possession, in Reversion _Baals._
+He bears himself a Dove to Mortal Race,
+And though not Man, he can look Heav'n i'th' Face.
+Never was Compound of more different Stuff,
+A Heart in Lambskin, and a Conscience Buff.
+
+  Let not that Hideous Bulk of Honour scape,
+_Nadab_ that sets the gazing Crowd agape:
+That old Kirk-founder, whose course Croak could sing
+The Saints, the Cause, no Bishop, and no King:
+When Greatness clear'd his Throat, and scowr'd his Maw,
+Roard out Succession, and the Penal Law.
+Not so of old: another sound went forth,
+When in the Region from _Judea_ North,
+By the Triumphant _Saul_ he was employ'd,
+A huge fang Tusk to goar poor _Davids_ side.
+Like a Proboscis in the Tyrants Jaw,
+To rend and root through Government and Law.
+His hand that Hell-penn'd League of _Belial_ drew, }
+That Swore down Kings, Religion overthrew,         }
+Great _David_ banisht, and Gods Prophets slew.     }
+Nor does the Courts long Sun so powerful shine,
+T'exhale his Vapours, or his Dross refine;
+Nor is the Metal mended by the stamp.
+With his rank oyl he feeds the Royal Lamp.
+To Sanedrins an everlasting Foe,
+Resolv'd his Mighty Hunters overthrow.
+And true to Tyranny, as th'only Jem,
+That truly sparkles in a Diadem;
+To _Absalons_ side does his old _Covenant_ bring,
+With _State_ raz'd out, and interlin'd with KING.
+But _Nadabs_ Zeal has too severe a Doom;
+Whilst serving an ungrateful _Absalom_,
+His strength all spent his Greatness to create,
+He's now laid by a cast-out Drone of State.
+He rowz'd that Game by which he is undone,
+By fleeter Coursers now so far outrun,
+That fiercer Mightier _Nimrod_ in the Chace,
+Till quite thrown out, and lost he quits the Race.
+
+  Of Low-born Tools we bawling _Shimei_ saw,
+_Jerusalems_ late loud-tongu'd MOUTH of Law.
+By Blessings from Almighty Bounty given,
+_Shimei_ no common Favorite of Heaven.
+Whom, lest Posterity should loose the Breed,
+In five short Moons indulgent Heav'n rais'd Seed;
+Made happy in an Early teeming Bride,
+And laid a lovely Heiress by her side.
+Whilst the glad Father's so divinely blest,    }
+That like the Stag proud of his Brow so drest, }
+He brandishes his lofty City-Crest.            }
+'Twas in _Jerusalem_ was _Shimei_ nurst,
+_Jerusalem_ by _Baals_ Prophets ever curst,
+The greatest Block that stops 'em in their way,
+For which she once in Dust and Ashes lay.
+Here to the Bar this whiffling Lurcher came,
+And barkt to rowze the nobler Hunters Game.
+But _Shimei's_ Lungs might well be stretcht so far;
+For steering by a Court-Ascendant Star,
+For daily Oracles he does address,
+To the _Egyptian_ Beauteous Sorceress.
+For _Pharoah_ when he wisely did essay
+To bear the long-sought Golden Prize away,
+That fair Enchantress sent, whose Magick Skill
+Should keep great _Israels_ sleeping Dragon still.
+Thus by her powerful inspirations fed,            }
+To bite their Heels this City-Snake was bred,     }
+Till _Absalon_ got strength to bruise their Head. }
+Of all the Heroes since the world began,
+To _Shimei Joshuah_ was the bravest Man.
+To Him his Tutelar Saint he prays, and oh,
+That great _Jerusalem_ were like _Jericoh_!
+Then bellowing lowd for _Joshuahs_ Spirit calls,
+Because his Rams-horn blew down City-Walls.
+
+  In the same Roll have we grave _Corah_ seen,
+_Corah_, the late chief Scarlet _Abbethdin_.
+_Corah_, who luckily i'th' Bench was got,
+To loo the Bloodhounds off to save the Plot.
+_Corah_, who once against _Baals_ Impious Cause,
+Stood strong for _Israels_ Faith and _Davids_ Laws.
+He poys'd his Scales, and shook his ponderous Sword,
+Lowd as his Fathers _Basan_-Bulls he roar'd;
+Till by a Dose of Forreign _Ophir_ drencht,
+The Feavour of his Burning Zeal was Quencht.
+_Ophir_, that rescu'd the Court-Drugsters Fate,
+Sent in the Nick to gild his Pills of State.
+Whilst the kind Skill of our Law-Emperick,
+Sublim'd his Mercury to save his Neck.
+In Law, they say, he had but a slender Mite,
+And Sense he had less: for as Historians write,
+The _Arabian_ Legate laid a Snare so gay,
+As Spirited his little Wits away.
+Of the Records of Law he fancied none
+Like the Commandment Tables graved in Stone.
+And wish'd the _Talmude_ such, that Soveraign sway
+When once displeased might th'angry _Moses_ play.
+Onely his Law was Brittle i'th' wrong place:
+For had our _Corah_ been in _Moses_ Case,
+The Fury of his Zeal had been employ'd
+To build that Calf which th'others Rage destroy'd.
+Thus _Corah, Baals_ true Fayry Changeling made,
+He Bleated onely as the _Pharisees_ pray'd,
+All to advance that future Tyrant pow'r,
+Should Widows Houses gorge, and Orphans Tears devour.
+
+  Nor are these all their Instruments; to prop
+Their Mighty Cause, and _Israels_ Murmurs stop;
+They find a sort of Academick Tools;
+Who by the Politick Doctrine of their Schools,
+Betwixt Reward, Pride, Avarice, Hope and Fear,
+Prizing their Heav'n too cheap, the World too dear,
+Stand bold and strong for _Absolons_ Defence:
+Interest the Thing, but Conscience the Pretence.
+These to ensure him for their _Sions_ King,
+A Right Divine quite down from _Adam_ bring,
+That old Levitick Engine of Renown,
+That makes no Taint of Souls a bar t'a Crown.
+'Tis true, Religions constant Champion vow'd,
+Each open-mouth'd, with Pulpit-Thunder lowd,
+Against false Gods, and Idol Temples bawls;
+Yet lays the very Stones that raise their Walls.
+They preach up Hell to those that _Baal_ adore,
+Yet make't Damnation to oppose his pow'r.
+So far this Paradox of Conscience run,
+Till _Israels_ Faith pulls _Israels_ Altars down.
+Grant Heav'n they don't to _Baal_ so far make way,
+Those fatal _Wands_ before their Sheepfolds lay.
+Such Motley Principles amongst them thrown,
+Shall nurse that Py-ball'd Flock that's half his own.
+Nor may they say, when _Molocks_ Hands draw nigher,
+We built the Pile, whilst _Baal_ but gives it fire.
+
+  If Monarchy in _Adam_ first begun,
+When the Worlds Monarch dug, and his Queen spun,
+His Fig-leaves his first Coronation-Robe,
+His Spade his Scepter, and her Wheel his Globe;
+And Royal Birthright, as their Schools assert,
+Not Kings themselves with Conscience can divert;
+How came the World possest by _Adams_ Sons,
+Such various Principalities, Powres, Thrones?
+When each went out and chose what Lands he pleas'd,
+Whilst a new Family new Kingdoms rais'd?
+His Sons assuming what he could not give,          }
+Their Soveraign Sires right Heir they did deprive; }
+And from Rebellion all their pow'r derive:         }
+For were there an original Majesty          }
+Upheld by Right Divine, the World should be }
+Onely one Universal Monarchy.               }
+O cruel Right Divine, more full of Fate,
+Then th' Angels flaming Sword at _Edens_ Gate,
+Such early Treason through Mankind convey'd,
+And at the door of Infant-Nature layd.
+For Right Divine in _Esau's_ just defence,
+Why don't they quarrel with Omnipotence,
+The first-born _Esau's_ Right to _Jacob_ giv'n,
+And Gods gift too, Injustice charge on Heav'n.
+Nay, let Heav'n answer this one Fact alone,
+Mounting a Bastard _Jephtha_ on a Throne.
+If Kings and Sanedrims those Laws could make,
+Which from offending Heirs their Heads can take;
+And a First-born can forfeit Life and Throne,
+And all by Law: why not a Crown alone?
+Strange-bounded Law-makers! whose pow'r can throw
+The deadlier Bolt, can't give the weaker Blow.
+A Treasonous Act; nay, but a Treasonous Breath
+Against offended Majesty is Death.
+But, oh! the wondrous Church-distinction given
+Between the Majesty of Kings and Heav'n!
+The venial sinner here, he that intreagues
+With _Egypt, Babylon_; Cabals, Plots, Leagues
+With _Israels_ Foes her Altars to destroy,
+A Hair untouch'd, shall Health, Peace, Crowns enjoy.
+
+  Truths Temple thus the Exhalations bred
+From her own Bowels, to obscure her Head.
+And _Absolom_ already had subdu'd
+Whole Crowds of the unthinking Multitude.
+But through these Wiles too weak to catch the Wise,
+Thin as their Ephod-Lawn, a Cobweb Net for Flyes,
+The searching Sanedrim saw; and to dispel
+Th'ingendring Mists that threatned _Israel_,
+They still resolv'd their Plotting Foes defeat,
+By barring _Absolon_ th'Imperial Seat.
+
+  But here's his greatest Tug; could he but make
+Th'encluding Sanedrims Resolves once shake;
+Nay, make the smallest Breach, or clashing Jar,
+In their great Councel, push but home so far,
+And the great Point's secur'd.----And, lo! among
+The Princely Heads of that Illustrious Throng,
+He saw rich Veins with Noble Blood new fill'd;
+Others who Honour from Dependance held.
+Some with exhausted Fortunes, to support
+Their Greatness, propt with Crutches from a Court.
+These for their Countries Right their Votes still pass,
+Mov'd like the Water in a Weather-glass,
+Higher or lower, as the powerful Charm
+O'th' Soveraign Hand is either cool or warm.
+Here must th'Attacque be made: for well we know,
+Reason and Titles from one Fountain flow:
+Whilst Favour Men no less than Fortunes builds,
+And Honour ever Moulds as well as Guilds.
+Honour that still does even new Souls inspire;
+Honour more powerful than the Heav'n-stoln Fire.
+These must be wrought to _Absolons_ Defence.
+For though to baffle the whole Sanedrims Sence,
+T'attempt Impossibles would be in vain,
+Yet 'tis enough but to _Divide_ and _Raign_.
+
+  Here though small Force such easie Converts draws,
+Yet 'tis thought fit in glory to their Cause,
+Some learned Champion of prodigious Sense,
+With Mighty and long studyed Eloquence,
+Should with a kind of Inspiration rise,
+And the unguarded Sanedrim surprize,
+And such resistless conquering Reasons press,         }
+To charm their vanquisht Souls, that the Success      }
+Might look like Conscience, though 'tis nothing less. }
+
+  For this Design no Head nor Tongue so well,
+As that of the profound _Achitophel_.
+How, great _Achitophel_! his Hand, his Tongue!
+_Babylons_ Mortal Foe; he who so long
+With haughty Sullenness, and scornful Lowr,
+Had loath'd false Gods, and Arbitrary pow'r.
+'Gainst _Baal_ no Combatant more fierce than he;
+For _Israels_ asserted Liberty,
+No Man more bold; with generous Rage enflam'd,
+Against the old ensnaring Test declaim'd.
+Beside, he bore a most peculiar Hate
+To sleeping Pilots, all Earth-clods of State.
+None more abhorr'd the Sycophant Buffoon,
+And Parasite, th'excrescence of a Throne;
+Creatures who their creating Sun disgrace,
+A Brood more abject than _Niles_ Slime-born Race.
+Such was the Brave _Achitophel_; a Mind,
+(If but the Heart and Face were of a kind)
+So far from being by one base Thought deprav'd,
+That sure half ten such Souls had _Sodom_ sav'd.
+Here _Baals_ Cabal _Achitophel_ survey'd,
+And dasht with wonder, half despairing said,
+Is this the Hand that _Absolon_ must Crown,
+The Founder of his Temples, Palace, Throne?
+This, This the mighty Convert we must make?
+Gods, h'has a Soul not all our Arts can shake.
+
+  At this a nicer graver Head stept out,
+And with this Language chid their groundless Doubt:
+For shame, no more; what is't that frights you thus?
+Is it his Hatred of our God, and us,
+Makes him so formidable in your Eye?
+Or is't his Wit, Sense, Honour, Bravery?
+Give him a thousand Virtues more, and plant
+Them round him like a Wall of Adamant,
+Strong as the Gates of Heaven; we'll reach his Heart:
+Cheer, cheer, my Friends, I've found one Mortal part.
+For he has _Pride_, a vast insatiate _Pride_,
+Kind Stark, he's vulnerable on that side.
+Pride that made Angels fall, and pride that hurl'd
+Entayl'd Destruction through a ruin'd World.
+_Adam_ from Pride to Disobedience ran:
+To be like Gods, made a lost wretched Man.
+There, there, my Sons, let our pour'd strength all fly:
+For some bold Tempter now to rap him high,
+From Pinnacles to Mountain Top, and show
+The gaudy Glories of the World below.
+
+  At which the Consult came to this Design,
+To work him by a kind of Touch Divine.
+To raise some holy Spright to do the Feat.
+Nothing like Dreams and Visions to the Great.
+Did not a little Witch of _Endor_ bring
+A Visionary Seer t'a cheated King?
+And shall their greater Magick want Success,
+Their more Illustrious Sorceries do less!
+
+  This final Resolution made, at last
+Some Mystick words, and invocations past,
+They call'd the Spirit of a late Court-Scribe;
+Once a true Servant of the Plotting Tribe:
+When both with Forreign and Domestick Cost,
+He plaid the feasted Sanedrims kind Host.
+H'had scribbled much, and like a Patriot bold,
+Bid high for _Israels_ Peace with _Egypts_ Gold.
+But since a Martyr. (Why! as Writers think,
+His Masters Hand had over-gall'd his Ink.)
+And by protesting _Absoloms_ wise care,
+Popt into Brimstone ere he was aware.
+Him from the Grave they rais'd, in ample kind,
+His sever'd Head to his seer Quarters joyn'd;
+Then cas'd his Chin in a false Beard so well,
+As made him pass for Father _Samuel_.
+Him thus equipt in a Religious Cloak,
+They thus his new-made Reverence bespoke.
+
+  Go, awful Spright, hast to _Achitophel_,
+Rouze his great Soul, use every Art, Charm, Spell:
+For _Absolom_ thy utmost Rhetorick try,
+Preach him Succession, roar'd Succession cry,
+Succession drest in all her glorious pride,
+Succession Worshipt, Sainted, Deify'd.
+Conjure him by Divine and Humane Pow'rs,
+Convince, Convert, Confound, make him but ours,
+That _Absolon_ may mount on _Judahs_ Throne,
+Whilst all the World before us is our own.
+
+  The forward Spright but few Instructions lackt,
+Strait by the Moons pale light away he packt,
+And in a trice, his Curtains open'd wide,
+He sate him by _Achitophels_ Bed-side.
+And in this style his artful Accents ran.
+
+  Hear _Israels_ Hope, thou more than happy Man,
+Beloved on high, witness this Honour done
+By Father _Samuel_, and believe me, Son,
+'Tis by no common Mandate of a God,
+A Soul beatifyed, the blest Abode
+Thus low deserting, quits Immortal Thrones,
+And from his Grave resumes his sleeping Bones.
+But Heavn's the Guide, and wondrous is the way,
+Divine the Embassie: hear, and obey.
+How long, _Achitophel_, and how profound
+A Mist of Hell has thy lost Reason drown'd?
+Can the Apostacy from _Israels_ Faith,
+In _Israels_ Heir, deserve a murmuring Breath?
+Or to preserve Religion, Liberty,
+Peace, Nations, Souls, is that a Cause so high,
+As the Right Heir from Empire to debar?
+Forbid it Heav'n, and guard him every Star.
+Alas, what if an Heir of Royal Race,
+Gods Glory and his Temples will deface,
+And make a prey of your Estates, Lives, Laws;
+Nay, give your Sons to _Molocks_ burning paws;
+Shall you exclude him? hold that Impious Hand.
+As _Abraham_ gave his Son at Gods Command,
+Think still he does by _Divine Right_ succeed:
+God bids Him Reign, and you should bid Them Bleed.
+'Tis true, as Heav'ns Elected Flock, you may
+For his Conversion, and your Safety _pray_
+But Pray'rs are all. To Disinherit him,
+The very Thought, nay, Word it self's a Crime.
+For that's the MEANS of Safety: but forbear,
+For Means are Impious in the Sons of Pray'r.
+To Miracles alone your Safety owe;
+And _Abrahams_ Angel wait to stop the Blow.
+Yes, what if his polluted Throne be strowd
+With Sacriledge, Idolatry, and Blood;
+And 'tis you mount him there; you're innocent still:
+For he's a King, and Kings can do no ill.
+Oh Royal Birthright, 'tis a Sacred Name:
+Rowze then _Achitophel_, rowze up for shame:
+Let not this Lethargy thy Soul benum;
+But wake, and save the Godlike _Absolom_.
+And to reward thee for a Deed so great
+Glut thy Desires, thy full-crown'd wishes meet,
+Be with accumulated Honours blest,
+And grasp a STAR t'adorn thy shining Crest.
+
+  _Achitophel_ before his Eyes could ope,
+Dreamt of an Ephod, Mitre, and a Cope.
+Those visionary Robes t'his Eyes appear'd:
+For Priestly all was the great Sense he heard.
+But Priest or Prophet, Right Divine, or all
+Together; 'twas not at their feebler call,
+'Twas at the _Star_ he wak'd; the _Star_ but nam'd,
+Flasht in his Eyes, and his rowz'd Soul enflam'd.
+A _Star_, whose Influence had more powerful Light,
+Then that Miraculous Wanderer of the Night,
+Decreed to guide the Eastern Sages way:
+Their's to adore a God, his to betray.
+
+  Here the new Convert more than half inspir'd,
+Strait to his Closet and his Books retir'd.
+There for all needful Arts in this extreme,
+For knotty Sophistry t'a limber Theme,
+Long brooding ere the Mass to Shape was brought,
+And after many a tugging heaving Thought,
+Together a well-orderd Speech he draws,
+With ponderous Sounds for his much-labour'd Cause.
+Then the astonisht Sanedrim he storm'd,
+And with such doughty strength the Tug perform'd:
+Fate did the Work with so much Conquest bless,
+Wondrous the Champion, Glorious the Success.
+So powerful Eloquence, so strong was Wit;
+And with such Force the easie Wind-falls hit.
+
+  But the entirest Hearts his Cause could steal,
+Were the Levitick Chiefs of _Israel_.
+None with more Rage the Impious Thought run down
+Of barring _Absolon_, Pow'r, Wishes, Crown.
+With so much vehemence, such fiery Zeal!
+Oh, poor unhappy Church of _Israel!_
+Thou feelst the Fate of the Arch-angels Wars,
+The Dragons Tayl sweeps down thy Falling Stars.
+Nay, the black Vote 'gainst _Absolon_ appear'd
+So monstrous, that they damn'd it ere 'twas heard.
+For Prelates ne'r in Sanedrims debate,
+They argue in the Church, but not i'th' State;
+And when their Thoughts aslant towards Heav'n they turn,
+They weigh each Grain of Incense that they burn,
+But t'Heavens Vice-gerents, Soul, Sense, Reason, all,
+Or right or wrong, like Hecatombs must fall.
+And when State-business calls their Thoughts below,
+Then like their own Church-Organ-Pipes they go.
+Not _Davids_ Lyre could more his Touch obey:
+For as their Princes breathe and strike, they play.
+'Gainst Royal Will they never can dispute, }
+But by a strange _Tarantula_ strook mute,  }
+Dance to no other Tune but _Absolute_.     }
+All Acts of Supreme Power they still admire:
+'Tis Sacred, though to set the World on Fire,
+Though Church-Infallibility they explode,
+As making Humane knowledge equal God;
+Infallible in a new name goes down,
+Not in the Mitre lodged, but in the Crown.
+'Tis true, blest _Deborahs_ Laws they could forget:
+(But want of Memory commends their Wit.)
+Where 'twas enacted Treason, not to own
+Hers and her Sanedrins right to place the Crown.
+But her weak Heads oth' Church, mistaken fools,
+Wanted the Light of their sublimer Schools:
+For Divine Right could no such Forces bring. }
+But Wisdom now expands her wider Wing,       }
+And Streams are ever deeper than the Spring. }
+Besides, they've sense of Honour; and who knows
+How far the Gratitude of Priest-craft goes?
+And what if now like old _Elisha_ fed,
+To praise the Sooty Bird that brought 'em Bread,
+In pure acknowledgment, though in despight
+Of their own sense, they paint the Raven White.
+
+  _Achitophel_ charm'd with kind Fortunes Smiles,
+Flusht with Success, now glows for bolder Toyls.
+Great Wits perverted greatest Mischiefs hold,
+As poysonous Vapors spring from Mines of Gold.
+And proud to see himself with Triumph blest,
+Thus to great _Absolom_ himself addrest.
+
+  Illustrious Terrour of the World, all hayle:
+For ever like your Conquering Self prevaile.
+In spight of Malice in full Luster shine;
+Be your each Action, Word, and Look Divine,
+Nay, though our Altars you've so long forborne;
+To your derided Foes Defeat, and Scorne,
+For your Renown we have those Trumpets found,
+Shall ev'n this Deed your highest Glory sound.
+That spight of the ill-judging Worlds mistake,
+Your Soul still owns those Temples you forsake:
+Onely by all-commanding Honour driven,
+This self-denial you have made with Heav'n:
+Quitting our Altars, cause the Insolence
+Of prophane Sanedrims has driven you thence.
+A Prince his Faith to such low Slaves reveal!
+'Twas Treason though to God to bid You kneel.
+And what though senseless barking Murmurers scold, }
+And with a Rage too blasphemously bold,            }
+Say _Israels_ Crown's for _Esau_'s Pottage sold.   }
+Let 'em rayl on; and to strike Envy dumb;
+May the Slaves live till that great Day shall come,
+When their husht Rage shall your keen Vengeance fly,
+And silenc'd with your Royal Thunder dye.
+Nay, to outsoar your weak Fore-fathers Wings,
+And to be all that Nature first meant Kings;
+Damn'd be the Law that Majesty confines,
+But doubly damn'd accursed Sanedrins,
+Invented onely to eclipse a Crown.
+Oh throw that dull Mosaick Land-mark down.
+The making Sanedrims a part of Pow'r,
+Nurst but those Vipers which its Sire devour.
+Lodg'd in the Pallace tow'rds the Throne they press,
+For Pow'rs Enjoyment does its Lust increase.
+Allegiance onely is in Chains held fast;
+Make Men ne're thirst, is ne're to let 'em tast.
+Then, Royal Sir, be Sanedrims no more,
+Lop off that rank Luxurious Branch of pow'r:
+Those hungry _Scions_ from the _Cedar_ root,
+That its Imperial Head towards Heav'n may shoot.
+When Lordly Sanedrims with Kings give Law,
+And thus in yokes like Mules together draw;
+From _Judahs_ Arms the Royal Lyon raze,
+And _Issachars_ dull Ass supply the place.
+If Kings o're common Mankind have this odds,
+Are Gods Vicegerents; let 'em act like Gods.
+As Man is Heav'ns own clay, which it may mould
+For Honour or Dishonour, uncontrould,
+And Monarchy is mov'd by Heav'nly Springs;
+Why is not Humane Fate i'th' Breath of Kings?
+Then, Sir, from Heav'n your great Example take,
+And be th'unbounded Lord a King should make:
+Resume what bold Invading Slaves engrost,
+And onely Pow'rs Effeminacy lost.
+
+  To this kind _Absolom_ but little spoke;
+Onely return'd a Nod, and gracious Look.
+For though recorded Fame with pride has told,
+Of his great Actings, Wonders manifold;
+And his great Thinkings most Diviners guess;
+Yet his great Speakings no Records express.
+
+  All things thus safe; and now for one last blow,
+To give his Foes a total Overthrow;
+A Blow not in Hells Legends match'd before,
+The remov'd Plot's laid at the Enemies door.
+The old Plot forg'd against the Saints of _Baal_,
+Cheat, Perjury, and Subornation all,
+Whilst with a more damn'd Treason of their own,
+Like working Moles they're digging round the Throne;
+_Baal_, _Baal_, the cry, and _Absolom_ the Name,
+But _Davids_ glory, Life and Crown the Aim.
+Nay, if but a Petition peep abroad,
+Though for the Glory both of Church and God,
+And to preserve even their yet unborn Heirs;
+There's Blood and Treason in their very Prayers.
+This unexampled Impudence upheld;
+The Governments best Friends, the Crowns best Sheild,
+The Great and Brave with equal Treason brands.
+Faith, Honour, and Allegiance strongest Bands
+All broken like the Cords of _Sampson_ fall,
+Whilst th'universal Leprosie taints all.
+These poysonous shafts with greater spleen they draw,
+Than the Outragious Wife of _Potypha_.
+So the chast _Joseph_ unseduc'd to her
+Adult'ries, was pronounc'd a Ravisher.
+
+  This hellish Ethnick Plot the Court alarms;
+The Traytors seventy thousand strong in Arms,
+Near _Endor_ Town lay ready at a Call,
+And garrison'd in Airy Castles all.
+These Warriours on a sort of Coursers rid,
+Ne'r log'd in Stables, or by Man bestrid.
+What though the steele with which the Rebels fought,
+No Forge e're felt, or Anvile ever wrought?
+Yet this Magnetick Plot, for black Designs,
+Can raise cold Iron from the very Mines.
+To this were twenty Under-plots, contriv'd
+By Malice, and by Ignorance believ'd,
+Till Shamms met Shamms, and Plots with Plots so crost,
+That the True Plot amongst the False was lost.
+
+  Of all the much-wrong'd Worthies of the Land
+Whom this Contagious Infamy profan'd,
+In the first Rank the youthful _Ithream_ stood,
+His Princely Veins fill'd with great _Davids_ Blood.
+With so much Manly Beauty in his Face,
+Scarce his High Birth could lend a Nobler Grace.
+And for a Mind fit for this shrine of Gold
+Heaven cast his Soul in the same Beauteous Mould;
+With all the sweets of Prideless Greatness blest,
+As Affable as _Abrahams_ Angel-Guest.
+But when in Wars his glittering Steel he drew,
+No Chief more Bold with fiercer Lightning flew:
+Witness his tryal of an Arm Divine,
+Passing the Ordeal of a _Burning Mine_:
+Such forward Courage did his Bosome fill,
+Starting from nothing, but from doing ill.
+Still with such Heat in Honours Race he run, }
+Such Wonders by his early Valour done,       }
+Enough to charm a second _Joshua's_ Sun.     }
+But he has Foes; his fatal Enemies            }
+To a strange Monster his Fair Truth disguise; }
+And shew the Gorgon even to Royal Eyes.       }
+To their false perspectives his Fate he owes,
+The spots i'th' Glass, not in the Star it shows.
+Yet when by the Imperial Sentence doom'd,
+The Royal Hand the Princely Youth unplum'd,
+He his hard Fate without a Murmur took,
+And stood with that Calm, Duteous, Humble look.
+Of all his shining Honours unarray'd,
+Like _Isaac's_ Head on _Abrahams_ Altar lay'd.
+Yes, _Absolom_, thou hast him in the Toyl,
+Rifled, and lost; now Triumph in the Spoyl.
+His Zeal too high for _Israels_ Temples soar'd,
+His God-like Youth by prostrate Hearts ador'd,
+Till thy Revenge from Spight and Fear began,
+And too near Heaven took Care to make him Man.
+Though _Israels_ King, God, Laws, share all his Soul,
+Adorn'd with all that Heroes can enrol,
+Yet Vow'd Successions cruel Sacrifice,
+Great _Judah_'s Son like _Jeptha_'s Daughter dies.
+Yes, like a Monument of Wrath he stands;
+Such Ruine _Absolons_ Revenge demands;
+His Curiosity his Doom assign'd:
+For 'twas a Crime of as destructive Kind,
+To pry how _Babylons_ Burning Zeal aspires,
+As to look back on Sodoms blazing Fires.
+But spoyl'd, and rob'd, his drossier Glories gone,
+His Virtue and his Truth are still his own.
+No rifling Hands can that bright Treasure take,
+Nor all his Foes that Royal Charter shake.
+
+  The dreadful'st Foe their Engines must subdue,
+The strongest Rock through which their Arts must hew,
+Was great _Barzillai_: could they reach his Head,
+Their Fears all husht, they had strook Danger dead.
+That second _Moses_-Guide resolv'd to free
+Our _Israel_ from her threatning Slavery,
+Idolatry and Chains; both from the Rods
+Of _Pharoh_-Masters, and _Egyptian_ Gods:
+And from that Wilderness of Errour freed,
+Where Dogstars scorch, and killing Serpents breed:
+That _Israels_ Liberty and Truth may grow,
+The _Canaan_ whence our Milk and Honey flow.
+Such our _Barzillai_; but _Barzillai_ too,
+With _Moses_ Fate does _Moses_ Zeal pursue:
+Leads to that Bliss which his own Silver Hairs
+Shall never reach, Rich onely to his Heirs.
+Kind Patriot, who to plant us Banks of Flow'rs,
+With purling Streams, cool Shades, and Summer Bow'rs,
+His Ages needful Rest away does fling,
+Exhausts his Autumn to adorn our Spring:
+Whilst his last hours in Toyls and Storms are hurl'd,
+And onely to enrich th'inheriting World.
+Thus prodigally throws his Lifes short span,
+To play his Countries generous Pelican.
+But oh, that all-be-devill'd Paper, fram'd
+No doubt, in Hell; that Mass of Treason damn'd;
+By _Esau_'s Hands, and _Jacobs_ Voice disclos'd;
+And timely to th' Abhorring World expos'd.
+Nay, what's more wondrous, this wast-paper Tool,
+A nameless, unsubscrib'd, and useless scrowl,
+Was, by a Politician great in Fame,
+(His Chains foreseen a Month before they came)
+Preserv'd on purpose, by his prudent care,
+To brand his Soul, and ev'n his Life ensnare.
+But then the Geshuritish Troop, well-Oath'd,
+And for the sprucer Face, well-fed, and Cloath'd.
+These to the Bar Obedient Swearers go,
+With all the Wind their manag'd Lungs can blow.
+So have I seen from Bellows brazen Snout,
+The Breath drawn in, and by th'same Hand squeez'd out.
+But helping Oaths may innocently fly,
+When in a Faith where dying Vows can lye.
+Were Treason and Democracie his Ends,
+Why was't not prov'd by his Revolting Friends?
+Why did not th'Oaths of his once-great Colleagues,
+_Achitophel_ and the rest prove his Intreagues?
+Why at the Bar appear'd such sordid scum,
+And all those Nobler Tongues of Honour dumb?
+Could he his Plots t'his great Allies conceal,
+He durst to leaky Starving Wretches tell;
+Such Ignorant Princes, and such knowing Slaves;
+His _Babel_ building Tools from such poor Knaves.
+Were he that Monster his new Foes would make
+Th'unreasoning World beleive, his Soul so black,
+That they in Conscience did his Side forego,
+Knowing him guilty they could prove him so.
+Then 'twas not Conscience made 'em change their side.
+Or if they knew, yet did his Treasons hide;
+In not exposing his detested Crime,
+They're greater Monsters than they dare think Him.
+Are these the Proselites renown'd so high,
+Converts to Duty, Honour, Loyalty?
+Poorly they change, who in their change stand mute:
+Converts to Truth ought Falsehood to confute.
+To conquering Truth, they but small glory give,
+Who turn to God, yet let the Dagon live.
+
+  But who can _Amiels_ charming Wit withstand,
+The great State-pillar of the Muses Land.
+For lawless and ungovern'd, had the Age
+The Nine wild Sisters seen run mad with Rage,
+Debaucht to Savages, till his keen Pen
+Brought their long banisht Reason back again,
+Driven by his Satyres into Natures Fence,
+And lasht the idle Rovers into Sense.
+Nay, his sly Muse, in Style Prophetick, wrot
+The whole Intrigue of _Israels_ Ethnick Plot;
+Form'd strange Battalions, in stupendious-wise,
+Whole Camps in Masquerade, and Armies in disguise.
+_Amiel_, whose generous Gallantry, whilst Fame
+Shall have a Tongue, shall never want a Name.
+Who, whilst his Pomp his lavish Gold consumes,
+Moulted his Wings to lend a Throne his Plumes,
+Whilst an Ungrateful Court he did attend,
+Too poor to pay, what it had pride to spend.
+
+  But, _Amiel_ has, alas, the fate to hear,
+An angry Poet play his Chronicler;
+A Poet rais'd above Oblivions Shade,
+By his Recorded Verse Immortal made.
+But, Sir, his livelier Figure to engrave,
+With Branches added to the _Bays_ you gave:
+No Muse could more Heroick Feats rehearse,
+Had with an equal all-applauding Verse,
+Great _Davids_ Scepter, and _Sauls_ Javelin prais'd:
+A Pyramide to his Saint, _Interest_, rais'd.
+For which Religiously no Change he mist,                    }
+From Common-wealths-man up to Royalist:                     }
+Nay, would have been his own loath'd thing call'd _Priest_. }
+Priest, whom with so much Gall he does describe,
+'Cause once unworthy thought of _Levies_ Tribe.
+Near those bright Tow'rs where Art has Wonders done, }
+Where _Davids_ sight glads the blest Summers Sun;    }
+And at his feet proud _Jordans_ Waters run;          }
+A Cell there stands by Pious Founders rais'd,
+Both for its Wealth and Learned _Rabbins_ prais'd:
+To this did an Ambitious Bard aspire,
+To be no less than Lord of that blest Quire:
+Till Wisdom deem'd so Sacred a Command,
+A Prize too great for his unhallow'd Hand.
+Besides, lewd Fame had told his plighted Vow,
+To _Laura's_ cooing Love percht on a dropping Bough
+_Laura_ in faithful Constancy confin'd
+To _Ethiops_ Envoy, and to all Mankind.
+_Laura_ though Rotten, yet of Mold Divine;
+He had all her Cl--ps, and She had all his Coine.
+Her Wit so far his Purse and Sense could drain,
+Till every P--x was sweetn'd to a Strain.
+And if at last his Nature can reform,
+A weary grown of Loves tumultuous storm,
+'Tis Ages Fault, not His; of pow'r bereft,
+He left not Whoring, but of that was left.
+
+  But wandring Muse bear up thy flagging Wing:
+To thy more glorious Theme return, and sing
+Brave _Jothams_ Worth, Impartial, Great, and Just,
+Of unbrib'd Faith, and of unshaken Trust:
+Once _Geshurs_ Lord, their Throne so nobly fill'd,
+As if to th'borrow'd Scepter that he held,
+Th'inspiring _David_ yet more generous grew,
+And lent him his Imperial _Genius_ too.
+Nor has he worn the Royal Image more
+In _Israels_ Viceroy, than Embassador:
+Witness his Gallantry that resolute hour,
+When to uphold the Sacred Pride of Pow'r,
+His stubborn Flags from the _Sydonian_ shore,
+The angry storms of Thundring Castles bore.
+But these are Virtues Fame must less admire,
+Because deriv'd from that Heroick Sire,
+Who on a Block a dauntless Martyr dy'd,
+With all the Sweetness of a Smiling Bride;
+Charm'd with the Thought of Honours Starry Pole,
+With Joy laid down a Head to mount a Soul.
+
+  Of all the Champions rich in Honours Scarrs,
+Whose Loyalty through _Davids_ ancient Wars,
+(In spight of the triumphant Tyrants pride,)
+Was to his lowest Ebb of Fortune ty'd;
+No Link more strong in all that Chain of Gold,
+Then _Amasai_, the Constant, and the Bold.
+That Warlike General whose avenging Sword,
+Through all the Battles of his Royal Lord,
+Pour'd all the Fires that Loyal Zeal could light,
+No brighter Star in the lost _Davids_ night.
+
+  No less with Laurels _Ashurs_ Brows adorn,
+That mangled Brave who with _Tyres_ Thunder torn,
+Brought a dismember'd Load of Honour home,
+And lives to make both th'Earth and Seas his Tomb.
+
+  With Reverence the Religious _Helon_ treat,
+Refin'd from all the looseness of the Great.
+_Helon_ who sees his Line of Virtues run }
+Beyond the Center of his Grave, his own  }
+Unfinisht Luster sparkling in his Son.   }
+A Son so high in Sanedrims renown'd,
+In _Israels_ Intrest strong, in Sense profound.
+Under one Roof here Truth a Goddess dwells,    }
+The Pious Father builds her Shrines and Cells, }
+And in the Son she speaks her Oracles.         }
+
+  In the same list young _Adriels_ praise record,
+_Adriel_ the Academick Neighbour Lord;
+_Adriel_ ennobled by a Grandfather,
+And Unkle, both those Glorious Sons of War:
+Both Generals, and both Exiles with their Lord;
+Till with the Royal Wanderer restored,
+They lived to see his Coronation Pride;
+Then surfeiting on too much Transport dy'd.
+O're _Adriels_ Head these Heroes Spirits shine,
+His Soul with so much Loyal Blood fenc'd in;
+Such Native Virtues his great Mind adorn,
+Whilst under their congenial Influence born.
+
+  In this Record let _Camries_ Name appear,
+The Great _Barzillai_'s Fellow Sufferer;
+From unknown Hands, of unknown Crimes accus'd,
+Till th'hunted Shadow lost, his Chains unloos'd.
+
+  Now to the Sweet-tongu'd _Amrams_ praise be just,
+Once the _State-Advocate_, that Wealthy Trust,
+Till Flattery the price of dear-bought Gold,
+His Innocence for Pallaces unfold,
+To Naked Truths more shining Beauties true,
+Th'Embroiderd Mantle from his Neck he threw.
+
+  Next _Hothriel_ write, _Baals_ watchful Foe, and late
+_Jerusalems_ protecting Magistrate;
+Who, when false Jurors were to Frenzy Charm'd,
+And against Innocence even Tribunals arm'd,
+Saw deprav'd Justice ope her Ravenous Jaw,
+And timely broke her Canine Teeth of Law.
+
+  Amongst th'Asserters of his Countries Cause,
+Give the bold _Micah_ his deserv'd Applause,
+The Grateful Sanedrims repeated Choice,
+Of Two Great Councels the Successive Voice.
+Of that old hardy Tribe of _Israel_ borne,
+Fear their Disdain, and Flattery their Scorne,
+Too proud to truckle, and too Tough to bend.
+
+  Of the same Tribe was _Hanan, Ithreams_ Friend,
+From that fam'd Sire, the Long Robes Glory, sprung,
+In Sanedrims his Countries Pillar long;
+Long had he fadom'd all the Depths of State;           }
+Could with that strength, that ponderous Sense debate, }
+As turn'd the Scale of Nations with the weight:        }
+Till subtley made by Spightful Honour Great,
+Prefer'd to _Israels_ Chief Tribunal Seat,
+Made in a higher Orb his Beams dispense,
+To hush his Formidable Eloquence.
+
+  But _Israels_ numerous Worthies are too long
+And Great a Theam for one continued Song.
+Yet These by bold flagitious Tongues run down,
+Made all Conspirers against _Davids_ Crown.
+
+  Nay, and there was a Time, had Hell prevail'd,
+Nor Perjury and Subornation fail'd,
+When a long List of Names, for Treason doom'd,
+Had _Israels_ Patriots in one Grave entomb'd:
+A List, with such fair Loyal Colours laid,
+Even to no less than Royal Hands convey'd.
+And the great Mover in this pious Fraud,
+A Dungeon Slave redeem'd by'a Midnight Bawd:
+Then made by Art a Swearer of Renown,
+Nurst and embrac'd by th'Heir of _Judahs_ Crown:
+Encourag'd too by Pension for Reward,
+With his forg'd Scrowls for Guiltless Blood prepared.
+Poor Engine for a greatness so sublime:           }
+But oh, a Cause by which their _Baal_ must climb, }
+Ennobles both the Actor and the Crime.            }
+
+  Yet This, and all Things else now quite blown o're,
+And _Absolom_, his _Israels_ Fear no more:
+Luster and Pride shall hem his radiant Brow;
+All Knees shall fall, and prostrate Nations bow.
+By Heav'ns, he is, he will, he must, he shall
+Be _Israels_ Heroe, Friend, Saint, Idol, all.
+What though provok'd with all the crying sins
+Of Murmuring Slaves, excluding Sanedrins:
+By profane Crowds in dirt his Prophets spurn'd,
+And ev'n his Gods in mock Processions burn'd:
+Himself from _Israel_ into _Hebron_ sent,
+And doom'd to little less than Banishment.
+In spight of all his Scrowls to _Babylon_;           }
+And all the promis'd Wonders to be done,             }
+When _Egypts_ Frogs should croak on _Judahs_ Throne. }
+Though of a Faith that propagates in Blood;
+Of Passions unforgiving, less withstood
+Then Seas and Tempests, and as Deaf as they.   }
+Yet all Divine shall be his Godlike Sway,      }
+And his calm Reign but one long _Halcyon_ Day. }
+And this Great Truth he's damn'd that dares deny; }
+'Gainst _Absolom_ even Oracles would lye,         }
+Though Sense and Reason Preach 'tis Blasphemy.    }
+Then let out dull Mistaken Terrour cease,
+When even our Comets speak all Health and Peace.
+
+_FINIS._
+
+
+ERRATA.
+
+  [Transcriber's Note:
+
+  The author's Errata list was printed at the bottom of the page in a
+  single block of small type, heavily smudged and not always legible.
+  In at least one case, the requested change appears to be what the text
+  already says. For these reasons, changes listed have _not_ been made.
+  The text of each complete line is given in brackets.]
+
+  The Reader is desired to Correct these following Mistakes.
+
+  Page 1. line 12. for _Hold_, read _Held_.
+      [Hold but their Crowns at his Almighty Will.]
+  p. 4. l. 22. r. _Ships_;
+      [_Dan_ from her Ship, and _Asher_ on the Shore.]
+    ibid. l. 26. for _Kindl'd_ r. _Bank'd_;
+      [Kindl'd their embattel'd Fires for _Deborah's_ Wars,]
+    ibid. l. 32. r. _the Mighty_;
+      [The Mighty _Deborah's_, God's, and _Israel's_ Foes.]
+    ibid. l. 37 for _they_ r. _thus_;
+      [Thus sung, they conquer'd _Deborah_; thus fell]
+  p. 7. l. 18. for _poor_, r. _weak_;
+      [Preach to poor Female half-Soul'd Proselytes.]
+  p. 9. l. 3. & 4. for _his_ r. _a_;
+      [What Knees, what Necks to mount him to his Throne;
+       What Gems, what Stars to sparkle in his Crown?]
+    l. 6. for _the_, r. _ye_;
+      [But oh the Pow'rs, by treacherous snakes beguil'd,]
+    ibid. l. 20. r. _Walls; the Billows pour_;
+      [Down crack the Chrystal Walls the Billows pow'r,]
+  p. 12. l. 11. r. _lov'd Israel_;
+      [That still in its Lord _Israel_ takes delight,]
+  p. 19. l. 27. for _loo_ r. _race_ [illegible, possibly "rate"]
+      [To loo the Bloodhounds off to save the Plot.]
+  p. 22. l. 10. r. _Excluding_.
+      [Th'encluding Sanedrims Resolves once shake;]
+
+  [Additional errors and anomalies noted by transcriber:
+
+  (Title, after dedication)
+  Absalom Senior
+    _catchword on previous page has "Abso-"_
+  Whilst th'universal Drones buz to his Hives.
+    _apostrophe missing_
+  If this last Masterpiece requires a Soul.
+    _"f" ("If") invisible_
+  The Uppermost, indisputably Best.
+    _text reads "indsputably"_
+  This final Resolution made, at last
+    _line printed after break, but not indented_
+  But t'Heavens Vice-gerents, Soul, Sense, Reason, all,
+    _the word "vice-gerent" occurs twice_
+  Why did not th'Oaths of his once-great Colleagues,
+    _apostrophe missing_
+  Th'Embroiderd Mantle from his Neck he threw.
+    _apostrophe missing_
+  By profane Crowds in dirt his Prophets spurn'd,
+    _apostrophe invisible_ ]
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+              Poetical Reflections
+                   on a Late
+
+                      POEM
+
+                   Entituled,
+            Absalom and Achitophel.
+
+           _By a Person of Honour._
+
+
+                  [Decoration]
+
+                   _LONDON:_
+      Printed for _Richard Janeway_. 1681.
+
+
+
+
+TO THE READER.
+
+If ever anything, call'd a _Poem_, deserv'd a severe Reflection, that
+of _Absalom_ and _Achitophel_ may justly contract it. For tho' Lines
+can never be purg'd from the dross and filth they would throw on others
+(there being no retraction that can expiate the conveying of persons to
+an unjust and publick reproach); yet the cleansing of their fames from a
+design'd pollution, may well become a more ingenious Pen than the Author
+of these few reflections will presume to challenge.
+
+To epitomize which scandalous Phamphlet (unworthy the denomination of
+_Poesy_) no eye can inspect it without a prodigious amazement; the
+abuses being so gross and deliberate, that it seems rather a Capital
+or National Libel, than personal exposures, in order to an infamous
+detraction. For how does he character the King, but as a broad figure
+of scandalous inclinations, or contriv'd unto such irregularities,
+as renders him rather the property of Parasites and Vice, than suitable
+to the accomplishment of so excellent a Prince? Nay, he forces on King
+_David_ such a Royal resemblance, that he darkens his sanctity in spite
+of illuminations from Holy Writ.
+
+Next (to take as near our King as he could) he calumniates the Duke
+of _Monmouth_ with that height of impudence, that his Sense is far
+blacker than his Ink, exposing him to all the censures that a Murderer,
+a Traytor, or what a Subject of most ambitious evil can possibly
+comprehend: and it is some wonder, that his Lines also had not hang'd
+him on a Tree, to make the intended _Absalom_ more compleat.
+
+As to my Lord _Shaftsbury_ (in his collusive _Achitophel_), what does he
+other than exceed Malice it self? or that the more prudent deserts of
+that Peer were to be so impeach'd before hand by his impious Poem, as
+that he might be granted more emphatically condign of the Hangman's Ax;
+And which his Muse does in effect take upon her to hasten.
+
+And if the season be well observ'd, when this Adulterate Poem was
+spread, it will be found purposely divulg'd near the time when this
+Lord, with his other Noble Partner, were to be brought to their Tryals.
+And I suppose this Poet thought himself enough assur'd of their
+condemnation; at least, that his _Genius_ had not otherwise ventur'd
+to have trampled on persons of such eminent Abilities, and Interest in
+the Nation. A consideration, I confess, incited my Pen (its preceding
+respect being paid to the Duke of _Monmouth_) to vindicate their
+Reputations where I thought it due.
+
+And some are not a little mistaken in their judgments of persons, if any
+Kingdom has at this time Two men of their Dignity, of more extraordinary
+Understandings: Which may (if well consider'd) be some inducement to
+their future preservation and esteem. As I have endeavour'd chiefly to
+clear their abuse, so I have pass'd divers considerable persons, under
+as malign inclinations of this Author's; conceiving, that what I have
+said for the Principals, may remove such smaller prejudices as are on
+the value of others on the same concern.
+
+His most select and pecuniary Favourites, I have but barely touch'd,
+in respect his praise includes a concomitant reprehension, if well
+apprehended. Besides, I was unwilling to discourage any, that for the
+future may desire to be admir'd by him according to their liberality.
+A method, that perhaps may in time set up some Merchants of _Parnassus_,
+where the _Indies_ of Fame seem lately discover'd, and may be purchas'd
+_per Centum_, according to modern example.
+
+As to the Character of _Amiel_, I confess my Lines are something
+pointed, the one reason being, that it alludes much to a manner of
+expression of this Writer's, as may be seen by the marginal Notes; and a
+second will be soon allowed. The figure of _Amiel_ has been so squeez'd
+into Paint, that his soul is seen in spite of the Varnish.
+
+And none will deny, but it is as easie to send Truth backward, as it is
+to spur Falsities egregiously forward, and might have caus'd any Asse,
+as knowing as _Balaam_'s, to have rebuk'd such a Poet as will needs
+prophecy against the sense of Heaven and Men. But I have enough of this
+_Amiell_, as well as of his Muse, unless that by his means it occasions
+a further account. And for what is mine here, It will at worst contract
+censure, in respect it is a brief reflection on a very large Libel. And
+tho' I believe it did not cost (tho' that be not offer'd for an excuse)
+the tenth part of the time of the other. As to my Preface, I was willing
+that he should find, that this smaller work has some Nose.--Tho' I am no
+more bound to have my Face known by it, than he is willing to obscure
+his by a Nameless Preamble.
+
+
+
+
+  [Asterisks used as side/footnote references are from the original
+  text.]
+
+              Poetical Reflections
+                   ON A POEM,
+
+                     CALLED
+             Absolon and Achitophel.
+
+
+When late Protectorship was Canon-Proof,
+And _Cap-a-pe_ had seiz'd on _Whitehall_-Roof,
+And next, on _Israelites_ durst look so big,
+That _Tory-like_, it lov'd not much the _Whigg_:
+A Poet there starts up, of wondrous Fame;
+Whether _Scribe_ or _Pharisee_, his Race doth name,
+Or more t'intrigue the Metaphor of Man,
+Got on a Muse by _Father-Publican_:
+    [Sidenote: A Committee-Man.]
+For 'tis not harder much, if we tax Nature,
+That Lines should give a Poet such a Feature;
+Than that his Verse a _Hero_ should us show,
+    [Sidenote: _Sir Denzill Hollis_ seeks _annum mirabilis_.]
+Produc'd by such a Feat, as famous too.
+His Mingle such, what Man presumes to think,
+But he can Figures daub with Pen and Ink.
+A Grace our mighty _Nimrod_ late beheld,
+When he within the Royal Palace dwell'd,
+And saw 'twas of import if Lines could bring
+His Greatness from _Usurper_, to be King:
+    [Sidenote: See his Poem on _Cromwel_.]
+Or varnish so his Praise, that little odds
+Should seem 'twixt him, and such called Earthly Gods.
+And tho no Wit can Royal Blood infuse,
+No more than melt a Mother to a Muse:
+Yet much a certain Poet undertook,
+That Men and Manners deals in without-Book.
+And might not more to Gospel-Truth belong,
+Than he (if Christened) does by name of _John._
+This Poet, who that time much squanderd thought,
+Of which some might bring Coyn, whilst some none brought,
+As Men that hold their Brains of powerful sense,
+Will least on Poet's Tales bestow their pence,
+Tho he such Dispensations to endear,
+Had notch'd his Sconce just level with his Ear.
+An Emblem in these days of much import,
+When Crop-ear'd Wits had such a Modish Court.
+Tho some from after-deeds much fear the Fate,
+That such a Muse may for its Lugs create.
+As Stars may without Pillories dispence,
+To slit some Ears for Forgeries of sense,
+Which Princes, Nobles, and the Fame of Men,
+Sought to bespatter by a worthless Pen.
+But leaving this to Circumstances fit,
+With what thence spreads this Renegado-wit.
+We'll tell you how his Court he now doth make,     }
+And what choice Things and Persons he doth take,   }
+That Lines for Guinnys might more liquorish speak. }
+To heigten which we'll to his Muse advance,
+Which late discover'd its _Judaick_ Trance:
+Where _Absalon_'s in _English_ Colours di'd,
+That in a Duke, a Traitor might be spi'd.
+Or Heaven on him did Graces so bestow,
+As only could confer their Pageant Show;
+Giving his Glories no more fast Renown,
+Than with more Honour to be taken down:
+Like Victimes by some Sacrificers drest,
+Must fall adorn'd, which then they pity least.
+But fear not _Monmouth_, if a Libel's quill,
+Would dregs of Venom on thy Vertue spill;
+Since no desert so smoothly is convey'd,
+As next it's Fame, no canker'd Patch is laid;
+Thou didst no Honour seek, but what's thy due,
+And such Heaven bids thee not relinquish too.
+Whilst it's Impressions so oblig'd thy Task,
+As leave from Earth thy Soul declin'd to ask.
+If this thy Error were, what Influ'nce can
+Excuse the Duty of more wilfull Man;
+With such whose Figures shew that squinting Paint,
+Whence peeps a Mungril _Babylonish Saint_.
+Thy Soul's Religion's Prop, and Native Grace,
+_Rome_, (fears its onsets) looking on the place;
+What Altitude can more exalt thy Praise,
+Tho best Devotion should thy Trophies raise,
+And 'tis perhaps from thy Diviner Bliss,
+That some may fear their Souls are seen amiss.
+As what so high does Emulation mount,
+As Greatness when surpass'd on Heaven's Account;
+And if th' Ambition would in this excel,
+'Twas but to be more great in doing well;
+And must rebate the worst that Fates intend,
+Whilst Heaven and _England_ is at once thy Friend.
+This just _Encomium_, tho too brief it be
+To represent thy least Epitome;
+And but unto thy larger Figure joyn'd,
+As small proportions are from great design'd;
+Tho where a line one worth of thine can speak,
+It does alone, a Poem's Greatness make;
+Leaving this _Hero_ to his spotless Fame,
+(As who besides this Wretch will it blaspheme)
+Or in a Libels Allegorick Way,
+Men falsely figur'd, to the world convey,
+Libels the enormous Forgery of sense,
+Stamp'd on the brow of human Impudence;
+The blackest wound of Merit, and the Dart,
+That secret Envy points against Desert.
+The lust of Hatred pander'd to the Eye
+T'allure the World's debauching by a Lie.
+Th'rancrous Favourite's masquerading Guilt,
+Imbitt'ring venom where he'd have it spilt.
+The Courts depression in a fulsom Praise;
+A Test it's _Ignoramus_ worst conveys,
+A lump of Falshood's Malice does disperse,
+Or Toad when crawling on the Feet of Verse.
+Fame's impious Hireling and mean Reward,
+The Knave that in his Lines turns up his Card,
+Who, tho no Rabby, thought in Hebrew wit,
+He forc'd Allusions can closly fit.
+To _Jews_ or _English_, much unknown before,
+He made a _Talmud_ on his Muses score;
+Though hop'd few Criticks will its _Genius_ carp,
+So purely Metaphors King _David_'s Harp,
+And by a soft Encomium, near at hand,
+Shews _Bathsheba_ Embrac'd throughout the Land.
+But this Judaick Paraphrastick Sport
+We'll leave unto the ridling Smile of Court.
+Good Heav'n! What timeful Pains can Rhymers take,
+When they'd for Crowds of Men much Pen-plot make?
+Which long-Beak'd Tales and filch'd Allusions brings,
+As much like Truth, as 'tis the Woodcock sings.
+What else could move this Poet to purloin
+So many _Jews_, to please the _English_ Swine?
+Or was it that his Brains might next dispense
+To adapt himself a Royal Evidence?
+Or that he'd find for _Dugdale_'s Wash some Spell,
+In stead of once more dipp'd in _Winifred_'s Well;
+And ope his Budget, like _Pandora_'s Box,
+Whence Overt-acts more _Protestants_ should Pox,
+Which might the Joyner's Ghost provoke to rise,
+And fright such Tales with other _Popish_ Lies?
+But _Starr's_ or _Ignoramus_'s may not give
+Those Swearers longer swinge by Oaths to live.
+A Providence much _English_ Good protects,
+And sends Testees to Trade for new Effects;
+Which none of the Long-Robe, 'tis hop'd, can aid,
+So well by Oaths the Devil's already paid;
+And most suppose, if e're both Plots can die,
+Or eat up one anothers Perjury,
+'Twou'd _Pluto_ strangely pose to find a Third,
+Sould he in his a _Popish_ Legion Lard.
+A Policy some Poems much embrace,
+As is discern'd in _Shaftsbury_'s Great Case;
+Where Verse so vile an Obloquy betray,
+As for a Statist-_Jew_ they'd him convey.
+Tho hard it is to understand what Spell
+Can conjure up in him _Achitophel_,
+Or tax this Peer with an Abused Sense
+Of his so deep and apt Intelligence:
+A Promptitude by which the Nation's shown
+To be in Thought concurrent with his own.
+_Shaftsbury_! A Soul that Nature did impart
+To raise her Wonder in a Brain and Heart;
+Or that in him produc'd, the World might know,
+She others did with drooping Thought bestow.
+As in Mans most perspicuous Soul, we find
+The nearest Draught of her Internal Mind,
+Tho it appears her highest Act of State,
+When Human Conducts she does most compleat,
+And place them so, for Mankinds good, that they
+Are fit to Guide, where others miss their Way;
+It being in Worldly Politiques less Great
+To be a Law-maker, than Preserve a State.
+In Publick Dangers Laws are unsecure,
+As strongest Anchors can't all Winds endure;
+Though 'tis in Exigents the wisest Ease
+To know who best can ply when Storms encrease;
+Whilst other Prospects, by mistaking Fate,
+Through wrong Preventions, more its Bad dilate.
+Whence some their Counter-Politicks extend,
+To ruine such can Evils best amend.
+A Thwarting _Genius_, which our Nation more
+Than all its head-strong Evils does deplore;
+And shews what violent Movements such inform,
+That where a Calm should be, they force a Storm;
+As if their Safety chiefly they must prize
+In being rid of Men esteem'd more Wise.
+To this Great, Little Man, we'll T'other joyn,
+Held Sufferers by one Tripartite Design.
+As from a Cubick Power, or Three-fold Might,
+Roots much expand, as Authors prove aright;
+But of such Managements we'll little say,
+Or shamm'd Intrigues, for Fame left to convey;
+Which may by peeping through a Gown-mans Sleeve,
+Tell such grave Tales, Men cannot well believe:
+With what for Plots and Trials has been done,
+As Whores depos'd, before away they run;
+All which was well discern'd by numerous Sense,
+Before the Doctors py'd Intelligence,
+Who, with some Motley Lawyers, took much care
+To gain the _Caput_ of this Knowing Peer;
+When after so much Noise, and nothing prov'd,
+Heaven thank'd, to Freedom he's at last remov'd,
+Leaving a Low-Bridge _Cerberus_ to try
+In what Clerks Pate his monstrous Fee does lie;
+Or by the help of _Tory-Roger_ tell
+How Sacred Gain-Prerogativ'd should spell.
+But these are Thoughts may fit some Pensive Skulls,
+Or Men concern'd to bait their several Bulls;
+Whilst on this Peer we must some Lines bestow,
+Tho more he merits than best Verse can show:
+Great in his Name, but greater in his Parts,
+Judgment sublim'd, with all its strong Deserts;
+A Sense above Occasions quick surprize,
+That he no Study needs to make him Wise,
+Or labour'd Thoughts, that trains of Sinews knit,
+His Judgment always twin'd unto his Wit;
+That from his clear Discussions Men may know
+He does to wonder other Brains out-do.
+Whilst they for Notions search they can't compact,
+His _Genius_ fitly stands prepar'd to act.
+Admir'd of Man, that in thy Sense alone
+So ready dost exalt high Reason's Throne;
+That Men abate Resentments to expect
+Thou mayst rise Greater, having past Neglect.
+A Sacred Method Kings receive from Heaven,
+That still does Cherish, when it has Forgiven;
+Which from our Princes Soul so largely flows,
+That Mercy's Channel with his Greatness goes.
+No Arbitrary Whispers him can guide
+To swell his Rule beyond its genuine Tide:
+Whilst other Kings their rugged Scepters see
+Eclips'd in his more soft Felicity;
+Whose Goodness can all Stress of State remove,
+So fitly own'd the Subjects Fear and Love.
+My Verse might here discharge its hasty Flight, }
+As Pencils that attempt Immortal Heighth        }
+Droop in the Colours should convey its Light,   }
+Did not this Poet's Lines upon me call
+For some Reflexions on a Lower Fall;
+Where he by Rhyming, a _Judaick_ Sham,
+Obtrudes for _Israelites_ some Seeds of _Cham_.
+And this Inspexion needs no further go
+Than where his Pen does most Indulgent show:
+And 'tis no wonder if his _Types_ of Sense
+Should stroke such _Figures_ as give down their Pence;
+A Crime for which some Poets Lines so stretch,
+As on themselves they Metaphor _Jack Ketch_.
+Tho small the Varnish is to Humane Name,
+Where Cogging Measures rob the truth of Fame.
+And more to do his skew'd _Encomiums_ right,
+Some Persons speak by him their motly Sight:
+Or much like _Hudibras_, on Wits pretence,
+Some Lines for Rhyme, and some to gingle Sense.
+Who else would _Adriel_, _Jotham_, _Hushai_, fit,
+With loathed _Amiell_, for a Court of Wit?
+For, as Men Squares of Circles hardly find,
+Some think these Measures are as odly joyn'd.
+What else could _Adriell_'s sharpness more abuse,
+Than headlong dubb'd, to own himself a Muse,
+Unless to spread Poetick Honours so
+As should a Muse give each St. _George_'s Show?
+A Mode of Glory might _Parnassus_ fit,
+Tho our Sage Prince knows few he'd Knight for Wit.
+And thus this Freak is left upon the File,
+Or as 'tis written in this Poet's Stile.
+Next, as in Course, to _Jotham_ we'll descend,
+Thoughtful it seems which Side he'll next befriend,
+As thinking Brains can caper to and fro,
+Before they jump into the Box they'd go.
+And 'tis a moody Age, as many guess,
+When some with busie Fears still forward press;
+As 'tis Ambitions oft-deluding Cheat
+To tempt Mens aims, secureless of defeat.
+_Hushai_ the Compass of th'_Exchequer_ guides,
+Propense enough unto the North besides:
+As what can steady Stations more allure,
+Than such, a Princely Bed does first secure?
+Whose Part none are so ignorant to ask,
+And does no less employ his Ends and Task.
+But quitting these, we must for Prospect pass
+To gaping _Amiell_, as reflects our Glass.
+The _Him_ indeed of his own *Western Dome,
+    [Sidenote: _See his_, p. 27.]
+So near his praiseful Poet Sense may come:
+For *_Amiell_, _Amiell_, who cannot endite
+    [Sidenote: _See his_, p. 28.]
+Of his _Thin_ Value won't disdain to write?
+The very _Him_ with Gown and Mace did rule
+The _Sanedrim_, when guided by a Fool.
+The _Him_ that did both Sense and Reason shift,
+That he to gainful Place himself might lift.
+The very _Him_ that did adjust the Seed
+Of such as did their Votes for Money breed.
+The Mighty _Him_ that frothy Notions vents,
+In hope to turn them into Presidents.
+The _Him_ of _Hims_, although in Judgment small,
+That fain would be the biggest at _Whitehall_.
+The He that does for Justice Coin postpone,
+As on Account may be hereafter shown.
+If this plain _English_ be, 'tis far from Trick,
+Though some Lines gall, where others fawning lick;
+Which fits thy Poet, _Amiell_, for thy Smiles,
+If once more paid to blaze thy hated Toils.
+Of Things and Persons might be added more,
+Without Intelligence from Forreign Shore,
+Or what Designs Ambassadors contrive,
+Or how the Faithless _French_ their Compass guide:
+But Lines the busie World too much supply,
+Besides th'Effects of evil Poetry,
+Which much to _Tory_-Writers some ascribe,
+Though hop'd no Furies of the _Whiggish_ Tribe
+Will on their Backs such Lines or Shapes convey,
+To burn with Pope, on Great _November_'s Day.
+
+_FINIS._
+
+
+  [Erratum:
+
+  And such Heaven bids thee not relinquish too.
+    _text reads "relinqnish"_ ]
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+                    AZARIA
+                      AND
+                    HUSHAI,
+
+                       A
+                     POEM.
+
+       _Quod cuique visum est sentiant._
+
+                   _LONDON,_
+           Printed for _Charles Lee_,
+                 An. Dom. 1682.
+
+
+
+
+TO THE READER.
+
+I shall not go about, either to excuse, or justifie the Publishing of
+this Poem; for that would be much more an harder Task than the Writing
+of it: But however, I shall say, in the words of the Author of the
+incomparable _Absalom_ and _Achitophel_, _That I am sure the Design is
+honest_. If Wit and Fool be the Consequence of _Whig_ and _Tory_, no
+doubt, but Knave and Ass may be Epithets plentifully bestowed upon me by
+the one party, whilst the other may grant me more favourable ones, than
+perhaps I do deserve. But as very few are Judges of Wit, so I think,
+much fewer of honesty; since Interest and Faction on either side,
+prejudices and blinds the Judgment; and the violence of Passion makes
+neither discernible in an Adversary. I know not whether my Poem has a
+_Genius_ to force its way against prejudice: Opinion sways much in the
+World, and he that has once gained it writes securely. I speak not this
+any ways to lessen the merits of an Author, whose Wit has deservedly
+gained the Bays; but in this I have the advantage, since, as I desire
+not Glory or vain applause, I can securely wrap my self in my own Cloud,
+and remain unknown, whilest he is exposed through his great Lustre.
+I shall never envy what I desire not, nor am I altogether so doting, as
+to believe the Issues of my own Brain to exceed all others, and to be so
+very fond of them, (as most Authors, especially Poets, are) as to think
+them without fault, or be so blinded as not to see their blemishes, and
+that they are excelled by others; yet since Poems are like Children,
+it may be allowed me to be naturally inclined to have some good Opinion
+of my own, and not to believe this Poem altogether despicable or
+ridiculous. The Ancients say, that every thing hath two handles, I have
+laid hold of that opposite to the Author of _Absalom_: As to Truth, who
+has the better hold, let the World judge; and it is no new thing, for
+the same Persons, to be ill or well represented, by several parties.
+I hope then, I may be excused as well as another, since I have told my
+Dreams with the same Liberty, for the fancies of Poets are no more than
+waking Dreams, and never imposed as dogmatical precepts, which are more
+agreeable to truth or falshood, or according to the Poets Language,
+which proceed from the Horny or Ivory Port, will be sentenced according
+to the Humour and Interest of several Parties who in spite of our Teeth
+will be our judges. Where I have been satyrical, 'tis without Malice or
+Revenge; and though I brag not of my Talent therein, I could have said
+much worse, of some Enemies to our _Jewish_ Heroe. He that will lash
+others, ought not to be angry if the like be returned to himself: _Lex
+talionis_ is a general and natural Law. I call not this an Answer to
+_Absalom_, I have nothing to do with him, he was a Rebel to his Father;
+my _Azaria_ a good Son, influenced by a worthy and Loyal Counsellor, and
+_Achitophel_ and _Hushai_ were men of contrary Opinions, and different
+Principles: And if Poets (as it is often brought for their excuse, when
+they vary from known History) ought to represent Persons as they ought
+to be, I have not transcurred the Precepts of Poetry, and _Absalom_ is
+not so good a Poem, because his Character is not so agreeable to the
+virtue of an Heroe, as this of _Azaria_ is: But certainly when Poetry
+and Truth are joyned together, and that the persons are truly what they
+are represented, and liv'd their Character, the glory is double, both to
+the Heroe and the Poet: And I could wish, that the same Hand, that drew
+the Rebellious Son, with so much Ingenuity and Skill, would out do mine,
+in shewing the virtues of an obedient Son and loyal Counsellor, since
+he may have as much Truth for a Foundation to build upon, the Artful
+Structure of the Heroes Glory, with his own Fame and Immortality.
+
+
+
+
+               AZARIA AND HUSHAI,
+
+                    A POEM.
+
+
+In Impious Times, when Priest-craft was at height,
+And all the Deadly Sins esteemed light;
+When that Religion only was a Stale,
+And some bow'd down to God, and some to _Baal_;
+When Perjury was scarce esteem'd a Sin,
+And Vice, like flowing Tides, came rowling in;
+When Luxury, Debauch, and Concubine,
+The sad Effects of Women and of Wine,
+Rag'd in _Judea_ and _Jerusalem_,
+Good _Amazia_ of great _David_'s Stem,
+God-like and great in Peace did rule that Land,
+And all the _Jews_ stoop'd to his just Command.
+Long now in _Sion_ had he Peace enjoy'd,
+After that Civil Broils the Land destroy'd:
+Plenty and Peace attended on his Reign,
+And _Solomon_'s Golden days return'd again;
+When the Old _Canaanites_, who there did lurk,
+Began to find both God and King new Work:
+For _Amazia_, tho' he God did love,
+Had not cast out _Baal_'s Priests, and cut down every Grove.
+Too oft Religion's made pretence for Sin,
+About it in all Ages Strife has been;
+But Int'rest, which at bottom doth remain,
+Which still converts all Godliness to Gain,
+What e'er Pretence is made, is the true Cause,
+That moves the Priest, and like the Load-stone draws.
+The _Canaanites_ of Old that Land possess'd,
+And long therein Idolatry profess'd;
+Till Sins of Priests, and of the Common Rout,
+Caus'd God and his good Kings to cast them out.
+Their Idols were pull'd down, their Groves destroy'd,
+Strict Laws against them, and their Worship made.
+The Heathen Priests were banish'd from the Land
+Of _Baal_, no Temple suffer'd was to stand;
+And all Succeeding Kings made it their Care,
+They should no more rear up their Altars there.
+If some mild Kings did wink at their Abode,
+They to the _Jews_ still prov'd a Pricking-goad:
+Growing more bold, they penal Laws defy'd,
+And like tormenting Thorns, stuck in their Side.
+The busy Priests had lost their gainful Trade,
+Revenge and Malice do then Hearts invade;
+And since by Force they can't themselves restore,
+Nor gain the Sway they in _Judea_ bore,
+With Hell they Joyn their secret Plots to bring
+Destruction to _Judea_ and its King.
+
+  The _Chemerarims_, the learnedst Priests, of all
+The numerous Swarms which did belong to _Baal_,
+Bred up in subtil Arts, to _Jews_ well known,
+And fear'd for Bloody Morals of their own;
+Who in the Cause of _Baal_ no one would spare,
+But for his sake on all Mankind make War,
+Counting it lawful Sacred Kings to smite,
+Who favor'd not their God, or was no _Baalite_,
+These were the Idol's known, and great Support,
+Who in Disguise creep into every Court,
+Where they soon Faction raise, and by their Arts,
+Insinuate into the Princes Hearts:
+Wriggle themselves into Intreagues of State,
+Sweet Peace destroy, and Bloody Wars create.
+Unwearied still, they deep Designs pursue;
+What can't a _Chemarim_, and _Belzeebub_ do?
+For cunning Plot, Trepan, for Oaths and Sham,
+The Devil must give place to _Chemarim_.
+These subtil Priests, in Habit black and grave;
+Each man a Saint in shew, in Heart a Knave,
+Did in _Judea_ swarm, grew great withall,
+And like th' _Egyptian Frogs_ to Court they crawl:
+Where, like them too, they never are at rest;
+But Bed and Board of Kings, with Filth infest.
+To every Shape they could themselves transform,
+Angels could seem, but still their Aim was Harm.
+They all the Sects among the _Jews_ could ape,
+And went about disguiss'd in every Shape.
+One imitates the _Zealous Pharisee,_
+The _Essens_ this, the dammee _Sadduce_ he;
+And such their ready, and their subtil Wit,
+For every Trade, and every Science fit:
+They Credit got, and stole into the Heart,
+And from their God, did many Souls pervert,
+Who seeming _Jews_, or what they were before,
+In Secret did the Idol _Baal_ adore;
+Whole false Religion was but loose, and few
+Could bear the Righteous Strictness of the true.
+
+  Thus these Disciples of the hellish Brood,
+Disguis'd, among the _Jews_, themselves intrude,
+And with the purer Wheat, their Tares they sow,
+Saw their bad Crop near to an Harvest grow,
+And hop'd that they again should rule the State:
+For e'er the days of good _Jehosaphat_,
+Through all the Land _Baal_'s Worship was allow'd,
+And King and People to gross Idols bow'd.
+The Priests, like Bloody Tyrants did command;
+They and their Gods, did wholly rule the Land;
+And every one who would not bow to _Baal_,
+Fled thence, or else by Fire, or Sword did fall:
+But that good King a Reformation made,
+Their Idols, and their Groves he quite destroy'd;
+In every place their Altars overthrew,
+And _Chemarims_ he banished or slew.
+Since when (except in _Athaliah_'s Reign,
+Who for a space, set Idols up again,
+Tormenting those to Death who would not turn,
+And did the _Jewish Rabbins_ slay or burn)
+These crafty Priests, by Plots did never cease,
+To spoil the Beauty of _Judea's_ Peace.
+Whilst _Joash_ reign'd, by sly and subtil Arts,
+They first estrang'd from him his Peoples Hearts.
+Saw Faction's Sparks, and unseen blew the Fire,
+Till Rebells 'gainst that good King did conspire:
+Then Cursed _Zabed_ of proud _Ammon_'s Line,
+And _Moabitish Jehozabad_ joyn,
+And to their Side some _Pharisees_ they drew,
+(_Joash_ did to their Sect no Favor shew)
+And th' _Essens_, who then daily numerous grew,
+Rebell, and their good King, like Murtherers, slew.
+Then _Amazia_ over _Jordan_ fled,
+Till God had struck the Tyrant _Zabed_ dead;
+When all his Subjects, who his Fate did moan,
+With joyful Hearts, restor'd him to his Throne;
+Who then his Father's Murtherers destroy'd,
+And a long, happy, peaceful Reign enjoy'd.
+Belov'd of all, for merciful was He,
+Like God, in the Superlative Degree.
+The _Jewish_ Sects he did not seek to quell,
+Yet Laws he made they might no more rebell:
+Wisely about them made of Laws a Fence,
+Yet kind, would not oppress their Conscience.
+The _Pharisee_, a very numerous Sect,
+Above the rest were in their Worship strict:
+In their own _Synagogues_ he let them pray,
+And worship God after their stricter way.
+In Peace all liv'd, and former strife forgot,
+The _Chemarims_ and Hell had hatch'd a Plot:
+A Plot form'd in the deep Abyss below,
+Law and Religion both to overthrow.
+The King was by their Bloody Swords to fall,
+That all _Judea_ might submit _to Baal_.
+Great were their Hopes, and deep was their Design.
+The Train already laid to spring their Mine;
+Not dreaming Heav'n could their Plots betray,
+They only waited an auspicious day.
+Nor fail'd their Plot for want of Common Sence,
+As some endeavor'd to persuade the Prince:
+For with much Art, great Industry and Care,
+They all things for their black Design prepare.
+Not hatch'd by Common Brains, or men of Earth,
+Nor was't the Issue of a suddain Birth;
+But long designing, and well laid it seems,
+By _Baal_'s _Arch-priests_, and subtil _Chemarins_.
+The _Canaanites_ dispersed through the Land,
+O'er whom _Baal_'s Priests had absolute Command,
+Were bound with Oaths, the Priests Religious Charms,
+To Secresie, and furnished with Arms.
+Heads they had got, as well as Hands to fight,
+Some zealous Princes of the _Canaanites_,
+Who ready were to guide the Common Rout,
+So soon as their Conspiracy broke out.
+_Ægypt_ of Warlike _Jews_ was still afraid,   }
+Lest as of Old, they should that Land invade, }
+To further this Design had promis'd Aid.      }
+Thus on a firm Foundation they had wrought
+Their great Design, well built to Humane thought:
+Tho' nothing that weak Mortals e'er design'd,
+But Folly seems to the Eternal Mind,
+Who blasting man's vain Projects, lets him know,
+He sits above, sees and rules all below.
+This wicked Plot, the Nations Bain and Curse,
+So bad no man can represent it worse:
+Want only _Amazia_ to destroy,
+But that they might the Rites of _Baal_ enjoy:
+For the good _Amazia_ being gone,
+They had design'd a _Baalite_ for the Throne.
+Of all their Hopes and Plots, here lay the Store:
+For what Encouragement could they have more,
+When they beheld the King's own Brother fall,
+From his Religion, and to worship _Baal_?
+The Priest well knew what Pow'r, and what Controul
+He had usurp'd o're ev'ry _Baalite_'s Soul,
+That such a Prince must their God's Cause pursue,
+And do whatever they would have him do;
+Else from his Throne he should be curs'd and damn'd:
+For _Baal_'s High-Priest, a Right t' all Crowns had claim'd.
+An Article 'tis of a _Baalite_'s Faith,
+That o're Crown'd Heads a Sovereignty he hath.
+
+  Thus on a sure Foundation, as they thought,
+They had their Structure to Perfection wrought
+When God, who shews regard to Sacred Kings, }
+The Plot and Plotters to Confusion brings,  }
+And in a moment down their _Babel_ flings.  }
+A _Levite_, who had _Baalite_ turn'd, and bin
+One of the Order of the _Chemarim_,
+Who in the Plot had deeply been concern'd,
+And all their horrid Practices had learn'd;
+Smote in his Conscience with a true Remorse,
+From King and Land diverts the threat'ning Curse.
+_Libni_, I think they call'd the _Levite_'s Name,
+Which in _Judea_ still will be of Fame;
+Since following Heaven's Impulse and high Command,
+He prov'd a Glorious Saviour of the Land.
+By him the deep Conspiracy's o'rethrown,
+The Treason, and the Traytors all made known:
+For which from _Baalites_ he had Curses store;
+But by the _Jews_ loaded with Blessings more.
+The Hellish Plotters were then seiz'd upon,
+And into Goals and Iron Fetters thrown;
+From whence to Lawful Tryals they were born,
+Condemn'd for Traytors, and hang'd up with Scorn:
+Yet _Chemarims_ with matchless Impudence,
+With dying Breath avow'd their Innocence:
+So careful of their Order they still were,
+Lest Treason in them Scandal should appear,
+That Treason they with Perjury pursue,
+Having their Arch-priest's Licence so to do.
+They fear'd not to go perjur'd to the Grave,
+Believing their Arch-priest their Souls could save:
+For all God's Power they do on him bestow,
+And call him their Almighty God below.
+To whom they say three powerful Keys are given,
+Of Hell, of Purgatory, and of Heav'n.
+No wonder then if _Baalites_ this believe,
+They should, with their false Oaths try to deceive,
+And gull the People with their Dying Breath,
+Denying all their Treason at their Death.
+This made Impression on some easie Minds,
+Whom or good Nature, or false Pity blinds;
+Mov'd their Compassion, and stirr'd up their Grief,
+And of their dying Oaths caus'd a Belief.
+This did effect what the curs'd Traytors sought,
+The Plots Belief into Discredit brought,
+Of it at first, some Doubts they only rais'd,
+And with their Impudence the World amaz'd:
+Tho' _Azyad_'s Murder did the _Jews_ convince,
+Who was a man most Loyal to his Prince,
+And by the Bloody _Chemarims_ did fall,
+Because he seiz'd the Trayt'rous Priests of _Baal_:
+Tho' _Gedaliah_'s Letters made all plain,
+Who was their Scribe, and of a ready Brain:
+A _Levite's_ Son, but turn'd a _Baalite_,
+Who for the King's own Brother then did write,
+And Correspondence kept i'th' _Egyptian_ Court,
+To whom the Traytors for Advice resort;
+Who like a zealous, trayt'rous _Baalite_ dy'd,
+And at the Fatal Tree the Plot deny'd.
+Tho' _Amazia_ did at first believe,
+And to the Hellish Plot did Credit give;
+Tho' the Great Council of the _Sanhedrim_,
+Among the _Jews_ always of great Esteem,
+Declar'd to all the World this Plot to be,
+An Hellish, and a curs'd Conspiracy,
+To kill the King, Religion to o'rethrow,
+And cause the _Jews_ their Righteous Laws forgoe;
+To make the People to dumb Idols fall,
+And in the place of God, to set up _Baal_:
+Tho' all the People saw it, and believ'd;
+Tho' Courts of Justice, hard to be deceiv'd,
+Had added to the rest their Evidence,
+Yet with a strange unheard of Impudence,
+The _Baalites_ all so stoutly had deny'd        }
+Their Hellish Plot, with Vows and Oaths beside, }
+And with such Diligence themselves apply'd.     }
+They at the last, their sought for point had got,
+And artfully in doubt had brought their Plot.
+A thousand cunning Shams and Tricks they us'd,
+Whereby the simple Vulgar were abus'd;
+And some o'th' _Edomitish_ Evidence,
+Who _Mammon_ worship'd, were brought off with pence.
+_Libni_, for whom, before their Harps they strung, }
+Who was the Subject of each _Hebrew_'s Song,       }
+Was villify'd by every Rascall's Tongue.           }
+In Secret, and inglorious did remain,
+And the Plot thought the Project of his Brain.
+
+  The _Baalites_ thus encourag'd by Success,
+Increase their Hopes, and their black Projects bless:
+Like the bold _Titans_, Plot on Plot they lay,
+And Heav'n it self with impious Arms essay.
+A new Invention wrought in Hell below,
+The _Jews_, and their Religion to o'erthrow;
+They bring to light, with this their Hopes they raise,
+And for dire Plots, think they deserve the Bays.
+This Engine stronger than th' old _Roman_ Ram
+For Battery, by a new name call'd Sham,
+With well learn'd, and successful Arts they use
+To overthrow the _Syn'gogues_ of the _Jews_,
+Their Worship and Religion to confound.
+And lay their Glorious Temple on the Ground.
+With this new Engine, they a Breach had made,
+By which they hop'd the Loyal _Jews_ t' invade.
+With Troops of Treasons, and Rebellious Plots,
+Led on by Villains, perjur'd Rogues and Sots;
+And with such Arms, in Hells black Work-house form'd,
+The peaceful _Jews_ they violently storm'd;
+Who 'gainst the _Ba'lites_ Plots had no defence,
+But God, their Laws, and their own Innocence.
+
+  Among the Princes of the _Jewish_ Race,
+For Wisdom, _Hushai_ had the Chiefest Place,
+Prudent in Speech, and in his Actions close,
+Admir'd by all, and feared by his Foes;
+Well skill'd, and knowing in the _Jewish_ Laws,
+Able to plead, and to defend a Cause,
+Of piercing Judgment, and of pregnant Wit,
+Did once Chief Judge of all _Judea_ sit;
+Was then esteem'd the Honor of the Gown,        }
+And with his Vertues sought to serve the Crown, }
+Till Foes procur'd him _Amazia_'s Frown.        }
+Then he descended from the hight of Place,
+Without a Blemish, and without Disgrace;
+Yet inly griev'd; for he could well divine
+The Issue of the _Baalites_ curs'd Design,
+To see Religion, and God's Righteous Cause,
+The Ancient Government, the Nation's Laws,
+Unpropping, and all ready strait to fall,
+And the whole Race of _Jews_ made Slaves to _Baal_:
+With Zeal inspired, boldly up he 'rose,
+To wrestle with the King's, and Nation's Foes;
+And tho' he was with Wealth and Honor blest,
+He scorn'd to give his Age its needful Rest:
+He learn'd, that man was not born for himself,
+To get great Titles, Names, or sordid Pelf,
+To wear a lazy Life, himself to please,
+With Idleness, and with luxurious Ease:
+When he beheld his Country in distress,
+And none the Danger able to redress,
+He did resolve, tho' not affecting Fame,
+Or to obtain a Patriot's Glorious Name,
+His Rest, his Life, his Fortune to expose,
+Rather than see his Countrey's dangerous Foes
+Run on uncheck'd, till they had brought the Land,
+To their, and to a _Baalite_ King's Command.
+He could not therefore so himself forget,
+To see the Barques of Government o'erset;
+But with his Skill he help'd the Boat to trim,
+And boldly did oppose _Eliakim_.
+_Eliakim_ was Brother to the King,
+From the same Loins, and Royal _Seed_ did spring;
+Of Courage bold, and of a daring mind,             }
+To whom the King, ev'n to Excess was kind;         }
+And tho' he had a Son, for him the Crown design'd. }
+Sweet _Azaria_, like the beauteous Morn,
+Whence all Sweets flow, did once that Court adorn,
+A budding Rose, whose Beauty's newly blown,
+Or like a Cedar on Mount _Lebanon_:
+He in his Father's Grace, and Favor grew,
+And towards him the People's Eyes he drew.
+He was by most belov'd, admir'd by all,
+For's Zeal to God, and's Hatred unto _Baal_:
+But ah! this mov'd the cursed _Baalite_'s Hate,
+Disturb'd his Peace, and Troubles did create.
+What can't Design and Hellish Malice do?
+With Lyes they close this Noble Prince pursue.
+They think his Father too indulgent grown,
+Whose Love had many Blessings on him thrown,
+But what exceeded all the rest beside,
+He chose the sweet _Jerusha_ for his Bride:
+A Blessing he esteemed far above
+The Crown, and all things but his Father's Love:
+For that he still above his Life did prize,
+Dear as his Fame, and dearer than his Eyes.
+Below his Feet, for that he all things trod,
+Adoreing nothing more except his God.
+Young as he was, he had acquired Fame,
+His Breast infired with a Warlike Flame,
+In Foreign Wars, his Courage he had shown,
+Had Lawrels won, and brought home fair Renown:
+Happy, most happy, till with wondrous Art,
+His Foes had wrought him from his Father's Heart;
+And so much Power on _Amazia_ won,
+He by Degrees, grew jealous of his Son.
+And who for this can _Amazia_ blame,
+If that the King the Father overcame?
+For Crowns by Kings esteemed are more near,
+Than Children, or than Sons, belov'd more dear.
+His Foes, _Baal_'s Friends, had laid their artful Snairs,
+Hight'ned his Father's Jealousies and Fears,
+And made each innocent Action of the Prince,
+To give his Jealous Father an Offence.
+If with wise _Hushai_ they the Prince did see,
+They call'd their Meeting a Conspiracy,
+And cry, that he was going to rebell:
+Him _Absalom_ they name, _Hushai_ _Achitophel_.
+With Slander thus the Prince they did pursue,
+Aiming at's Life, and the wise _Hushai_'s too.
+When they much pleased, and triumphing saw,
+The King his Royal Favors to withdraw,
+Which like a Spring on him before did flow,
+And from him, all on others to bestow:
+Defenceless left, naked, almost forlorn,
+Subject to every trifling Rhimers Scorn,
+And beyond _Jordan_ by their malice drove,
+No Succor left him but the People's Love;
+(For he was still their Darling and Delight,
+Because they saw he was no _Baalite_,)
+Their Hopes now almost at their Height did seem,
+To place the Crown upon _Eliakim_.
+
+  The _Jews_, God's People and peculiar Care,
+For their true Worship still most zealous were;
+That Jewel seem'd most pretious in their Eyes,
+And it above all Humane things they prize.
+No Torments could make them their Faith deny,
+They willingly for their Religion die:
+Their Liberties were also dear to them,
+Sprung from a free, and not a slavish Stem,
+Th' _Egyptian_ Bondage for their Souls unfit,
+They never in _Judea_ would permit;
+Their own known Laws, they willingly obey,
+Hate Tyranny and Arbitrary Sway:
+Nor did they many Priviledges want,
+Kept from the Time they first the Land did plant;
+For which to Death they lawfully would strive,
+If injur'd by their King's Prerogative:
+For some of them have try'd to break the Bound,
+And did like _Ethnick_ Kings, their People's Freedom wound,
+So _Rehoboam_ caus'd them to rebell,
+And lost at once ten Tribes of _Israel_.
+No people were more ready to obey
+Their Kings, who rul'd them by a gentle Sway,
+Who never sought their Consciences to curb,
+Their Freedom or Religion to disturb.
+To such they always open-hearted were,
+For them, they neither Coin, nor Blood would spare.
+Such Kings might their Prerogatives improve,
+And rule the _Jews_, ev'n as they pleas'd with Love;
+But stiff indeed they were, and moody grew,      }
+When Tyrants did with cruel Stripes pursue       }
+Them sore oppress'd, and sometimes murmur'd too. }
+Kings they had try'd of ev'ry sort and size.
+Best govern'd by the Warlike and the wise.
+Tho' Kings they lov'd, and for them Reverence had,
+They never would adore them as a God.
+God's Worship, and their Laws they did prefer,
+They knew, them men might by bad Councils Err.
+Tho' Loyal, yet oppress'd, they did not fear
+To make their heavy Grievances appear.
+This was indeed the Humor of the _Jew_,
+The People by Complaints their Griefs would shew;
+And never would, in truth, contented seem,
+Untill redress'd by their wise _Sanhedrim_.
+Thus now the _Jews_, tho' free from ill Design,
+In their Religious Cause together joyn:
+They cast their Eyes on _Amazia_'s Son,
+Who, without Arts the People's Love had won:
+Full of tormenting Jealousies and Fears,
+_Eliakim_ a dangerous man appears:
+The sober part of the whole _Sanhedrim_,
+Desire to keep _Judea's_ Crown from him:
+For they foresaw if he should wear the Crown,
+_Baal_'s Worship he'd set up, and God's cast down:
+That all the Nations must be Slaves to _Baal_,
+Suffer in Flames, fly, or 'fore Idolls fall.
+Great were their Fears, but yet they did abhor
+The very Thought of a dishonest War:
+For they had seen the Kingdom's many Scarrs,
+Th' unseemly Marks of former Civil Wars.
+They _Amazia_ lov'd and wish'd him well,
+Resolve to suffer rather than rebell;
+Yet openly declare free from all Stain,
+How much they hate a _Baalite_ should Reign;
+And for this Cause, and for this Cause alone,
+_Eliakim_ they'd put by from the Throne.
+
+  _Eliakim_ at Court had many Friends,
+By whom in Secret he could work his Ends;
+So that no Accusation could remove
+Him, deeply rooted in his Brother's Love.
+But since the _Jews_ to him shew'd open Hate,
+Lest that his presence should embroil the State;
+And that the _Jews_ might have no cause to sin,
+He's sent to rule the Tribe of _Benjamin_.
+Thus two great Factions in _Judea_ rose,              }
+So hotly each the other did oppose,                   }
+'Twas fear'd they'd fall at last from Words to Blows. }
+Each side most zealous for the King appears,
+Each full of Jealousies and disturbing Fears,
+Each pleads for _Amazia_ and the Laws,
+God and Religion both do make their Cause:
+Both Loyalty profess, both opposite,            }
+Both would persuade that each was in the right, }
+Tho' both contrary shew as day and night.       }
+Sweet _Azaria_ with these Troubles mov'd,
+On that side hated, and by this belov'd;
+Fearing th' inveterate Malice of his Foes,
+Which he sought to avoid, not to oppose,
+And lest they should their sought Occasion find, }
+To tax him of an ill ambitious mind,             }
+By seeing all the _Jews_ to him so kind;         }
+Lest he should grow i'th' King's Opinion worse,
+He seeks for Council how to steer his Course,
+That he might to the Court give no Offence,
+But live wrapt up in his own fair Innocence,
+The wise and thoughtful _Hushai_ he doth find,
+And thus to him he breaks his troubled Mind,
+Great Councellor, and Favorite of Heav'n,
+To whom the Blessing of true Wisdom's giv'n,
+Which by no Mortal can possessed be,
+Whose Thoughts are not inform'd by Loyalty.
+I know Reproaches upon you are thrown;
+But judge your Innocency by my own.
+I am accused Sir, as well as you,
+And the same Foe doth both our Lives pursue.
+He fears your Wisdom, may his Hindrance prove,
+And me, because I have the People's Love:
+His Creatures therefore throw on you and me,
+The Scandal of a curs'd Conspiracy,
+Against our King and Father to rebell:
+Me _Absalom_, and you _Achitophel_
+They name; bad Councellor, and worser Son,
+Who Traytors, durst into Rebellion run.
+My Father governs with so equal Sway,
+That all both love him, and his Laws obey:
+He seems Heav'n's Care, who set him in the Throne,
+Preserved by his wondrous Power alone.
+Oh may on him no Blemish fall or stain,
+But all live happy in his peaceful Reign:
+May he be happy still as he is good,
+Like God in Mercy, not inclin'd to Blood.
+This is the Prayer that I daily make; }
+For Piety shall never me forsake,     }
+Tho' I his Royal Favor ne'er partake. }
+And tho' my Foes have with their subtil Art
+Banish'd me from my Royal Father's Heart,
+Which is the Source of all my Grief and Woe,
+My just Obedience I will ne'er forgoe.
+Nor has Disgrace, nor my hot Passions wrought,
+Within my Breast one bad disloyal Thought.
+I ne'er believ'd my Father would betray
+His People, or sought Arbitrary Sway:
+Or tho' his People did his Wrath provoke,
+He meant to curb them with an Iron Yoak.
+Yet do I think, nay more than think, the Cause
+(But here his passion made some little pause,
+Till sighing, at the last he thus went on)
+Why my Great Father does disown his Son;
+They say I am but of a spurious Brood,
+My Mother being of Ignoble Blood:
+For _Jocoliah_ was but mean by Birth,
+Tho' with the King she mix'd her baser Earth.
+I was begotten in my Father's Flight,
+E'er to the Crown he had obtain'd his Right:
+And since I from his Favor did decline,
+He has declar'd her but his Concubine.
+This has the Hopes rais'd of _Eliakim_,
+And _Amaziah_'s Crown design'd for him;
+My Hopes are lost, and I do think it fit,
+I should to God, Right, and the King submit;
+But yet, wise _Hushai_ know, I still do find,
+My Birth has not so much debas'd my mind,
+To make me stoop to low or mean desires;
+I feel my Father's Royal Blood inspires
+My depress'd Soul, wipes off th' ignoble Stain,
+Renders me apt, or not unfit to reign.
+Of _David_'s Royal Blood, my self I own,
+And with it never can disgrace the Throne.
+Tho' my bold Spirits, mounting thus, do fly
+Towards the Noble hight of Sovereignty,
+And that I feel my Father's Blood to rowl
+Through every Vein and animate my Soul;
+Yet so much Loyalty is sown within
+My Breast, I would not Empire gain with Sin:
+For when my ambitious Thoughts begin to roam,
+Their Forces, I with that soon overcome.
+Tho' to God's Laws, and to the King's I yield,
+To my known Foes I would not leave the Field.
+I'd not be trampl'd on by sordid Feet,
+Nor take Affronts from ev'ry one I meet:
+I'd give no Cause they should my Courage doubt,
+Nor to Rebellion push the vulgar Rout,
+I to my Father would give no Offence,
+Nor while he lives, lay to the Crown Pretence;
+But since Life's sweet, by Wisdom I'd keep mine,
+From _Baalites_ Hate, and _Eliakim_'s Design:
+This my wise Friend, is my chief Business now,
+To take some Sage and good Advice from you.
+
+  _Hushai_ in Silence heard the Prince, and weigh'd
+Each word he spake, then to him thus reply'd;
+Great Prince, th' Almighty has to you been kind, }
+Stamp'd Graces on your Body and your mind,       }
+As if he for your Head a Crown design'd.         }
+We shall not search into Fates Secret Womb,
+God alone knows the things that are to come;
+But should you never sit on _David_'s Throne,
+'Tis better to deserve than wear a Crown.
+Of Royal Blood, and of great Birth you are,
+Born under some benign auspicious Star,
+Lov'd by the best, and prais'd by every Tongue,
+The glorious Subject of each worthy Song:
+The young man's Wish, Joy of each Warlike Wight,
+The People's Darling, and the World's Delight.
+A Crowd of Vertues fill your Princely Breast, }
+And what appears more glorious than the rest, }
+You are of Truth and Loyalty possest.         }
+That I would cherish in you, that would raise
+To an admired height, that I would chiefly praise.
+Let Fools and subtil Politicians scorn
+Fair Vertue, which doth best a Prince adorn:
+Whilst you her bright and shining Robes put on,
+You will appear more great than _Solomon_.
+Let not Great Prince, the Fumes of Vulgar Praise,
+Your bolder Spirits to Ambition raise.
+We cannot see into the Mist of Fate,
+Till time brings forth, you must expecting wait;
+But Fortune, rather Providence, not Chance,
+The constant, stout, and wise doth still advance.
+Let your quick Eye be to her Motions ty'd;
+But still let Noble Vertue be your Guide:
+For when that God and Vertue points the way,
+There can be then no danger to obey.
+But here in Wisdom's School we ought to learn,
+How we 'twixt Good and Evil may discern,
+For, noble Prince, you must true difference make,
+Lest for the one the other you mistake.
+You must not think you may your self advance,
+By laying hold on every proffer'd chance.
+Tho Fortune seems to smile, and egg you on,
+Let Vertue be your Rule and Guide alone.
+Thus _David_ for his Guide his Vertue took;
+Nor was by Fortune's proffer'd Kindness shook.
+His Vertue and his Loyalty did save
+King _Saul_, when Fortune brought him to his Cave,
+And if that I may to you Counsel give,
+You should without a Crown for ever live,
+Rather than get it by the Peoples Lust,
+Or purchase it by ways that are unjust.
+_David_ your Ancestor, from whom you spring,
+Would never by Rebellion be made King;
+But long in _Gath_ a Warring Exile stay'd,
+Till for him God a lawful way had made.
+In _Hebron_, full of Glory and Renown,
+He gain'd, at last, and not usurpt the Crown.
+By full Consent he did the same obtain,
+And Heav'n's anointing Oyl was not in vain.
+I once did seem to _Amazia_ dear,
+Who me above m'ambitious hopes did rear;
+I serv'd him then according to my skill,
+And bow'd my Mind unto my Soveraign's Will.
+Too neer the Soveraign Image then I stood,
+To think that every Line and Stroke was good.
+Some Daubers I endeavour'd to remove,
+And to amend their artless Errours strove.
+My Skill in secret these with slander wound;
+With every Line I drew still faults were found;
+Till wearied, I at last my Work gave o're. }
+And _Amazia_ (I shall say no more)         }
+Did me to my lov'd Privacy restore.        }
+For this they think I must my Vertue change,
+For Envy, Malice, and for sweet Revenge.
+Me by themselves they judge, who would do so,
+And cause the King suspect me for his Foe.
+But by th'advice I give, you best will find
+Th'Integrity and Plainness of my Mind;
+And that I harbour not that vile intent
+Their Poets and their Malice do invent.
+Far be't from me, to be like Cursed _Cham_;
+A good Son strives to hide his Father's shame.
+A King, the Father of his Country is;
+His shame is every Act he doth amiss.
+Good and just Kings God's Image bear; but when
+Their Frailties let us see they are but Men,
+We cannot every Action so applaud,
+As if it came from an unerring God.
+Kings have their Passions, and deceiv'd may be,
+When b'others Ears and Eyes they hear and see:
+For Sycophants, of Courts the Bane and Curse,
+Make all things better than they are, or worse.
+To Evil prone, to Mischief ever bent,        }
+Th'all Objects with false colours represent; }
+The Guilty clear, condemn the Innocent.      }
+Thus, noble Prince, they you and me accuse
+With all the Venome Malice can infuse.
+_Baal_'s Priests, Hell, and our Foes, new Arts have got,
+The filthy Reliques of their former Plot;
+Whereby they would our Lives in danger bring,
+And make us cursed Traytors to the King.
+What mayn't these cunning men hope to atchieve,
+When by their Arts few men their Plot believe?
+When b'horrid ways, not known to _Jews_ before,
+Their Plot's transform'd, and laid now at our door?
+But fear not, Sir, we have a sure Defence,
+The Peoples Love, God, Law, and Innocence.
+Keep fast your Vertue, and you shall be blest,
+And let alone to God and Time the rest.
+  The Noble Youth, with Vertues Robes arrai'd,
+Consider'd well what the wise _Hushai_ said.
+Desire of Power, though of Celestial Birth,
+Below, is ever intermixt with Earth:
+And all who do to hight of Place aspire,
+Have earthly Smoak mixt with their mounting Fire.
+Praise may debauch, and strong Ambition blind,
+Where heav'nly Vertue does not guard the Mind.
+But _Azaria_ so well understood,
+He left the Evil, and embrac'd the Good:
+Tho in his breast aspiring thoughts he found,
+Yet Loyalty still kept them within bound.
+And tho he might have Empire in his Eye,
+When to it by his bloud allay'd so nigh,
+Yet in his Soul such Virtue did remain,
+He by Rebellion would not Empire gain.
+Through every Vein his Loyal Bloud did run,
+Yet Royal too, as _Amazia_'s Son.
+About his noble Heart he felt it spring;
+Which let him know his Father was a King.
+If that to _Azaria_ were a Blot,
+His Father made it when he him begot:
+But Heav'n such Virtue moulded with his Soul,
+That his aspiring Lust it did controul.
+Thus to wise _Hushai_ he repli'd: I finde
+Your Counsel is agreeing with my Minde.
+And tho my Foes me an ill man do make,
+My Loyalty I never will forsake:
+Yet, prudent _Hushai_, do not Nature blame, }
+If I cannot, unmov'd, appear so tame        }
+As not to shew Resentment at my Shame.      }
+Oh, would to Heav'n I ne'er had been begot!
+Or never had been born a Royal Blot!
+My Father's Bloud runs thorow every Vein;         }
+He form'd those Spirits which desire to reign,    }
+Mount t'wards a Throne, and sordid Earth disdain. }
+In Glory, Fame, Crowns, Empire, they delight,
+And to all these they would assert my Right.
+And my great Thoughts do whisper there is none
+Can be more neer a Father, than his Son.
+This prompts me to oppose _Eliakim_,
+And never yield my Father's Crown to him.
+But then one groveling thought strait pulls me down,
+And throws me at a distance from The Crown.
+Oh, would to God------And here he stopt and sigh'd,
+Whilst _Hushai_ thus to the griev'd Prince repli'd.
+
+  Indeed, great Prince, it seemeth wondrous strange
+To all the World, to see your Father's change;
+To find the happy Love he us'd to show'r,
+Like fruitful Rain, on you, to fall no more:
+To see a Son, the Father's dear Delight,
+His pleasing Joy, now banish'd from his sight.
+Nature must in the Father deeply groan,
+When from his Heart is rent so dear a Son.
+Nor can I think, tho he from you should part,
+A Brother e'er can lie so near his Heart.
+To work this Change, your Foes much Art do use, }
+Their venom'd Tongues your Fathers Ears abuse,  }
+And you of an aspiring mind accuse.             }
+Justice in _Amazia_ bears such sway,
+That even Nature must to it give way;
+H'ad rather Nature force, and part with you,
+Than seem to rob another of his due.
+He holds it just, and as a thing divine,
+To keep unbroken still the Royal Line.
+Such an Example we can hardly find,
+A King to's Brother so exceeding kind;
+When by it he doth such great hazard run,
+Losing at once his People and his Son.
+Grieve not, great Prince, at your unhappy Fate; }
+Let not your Birth your Vertue to abate;        }
+It was not you that could your self create.     }
+I should great folly shew, should I repine
+At what I could not help, and was no fault of mine.
+Tho by your Mothers side your Birth was mean,
+And tho your Mother no declared Queen,
+If Heaven and your Father please, you may
+By lawful Right, _Judea_'s Scepter sway,
+After that he is number'd with the Dead,
+And his great Soul to _Abraham_'s Bosom fled.
+Possession of a Crown clears every Stain;
+No blot of Birth to you can then remain.
+What Pow'r on Earth, by Right, dares question you?
+Or what your Father and _Sanhedrim_ do?
+Nor is your Birth to Heaven any let;
+God _Jepthtah_ once did o're _Judea_ set.
+He was a Conquerour of a mighty Name,
+And's Mother no ways did eclipse his Fame,
+Nor bar'd him from the Title of a King,
+Nor those who after from his Loins did spring.
+Nature may yet make your great Father kind;
+And who can tell but he may change his mind,
+When your Succession shall be understood
+To be the Peoples Choice, and for the Nations Good?
+But let us leave what is to come, to Fate;
+Yours Father's pleasure and God's will await.
+Long may it be ere the King's life doth end;
+On it our Peace and Happiness depend.
+Like Wheat full ripe, with many years bow'd down,
+Let him leave this for an immortal Crown.
+And who can tell Heav'n's will? it may be too,
+_Eliakim_ may die before the King or you.
+Think of no Titles while your Father lives;
+Take not what an unjust Occasion gives.
+For to take Arms you can have no pretence,
+Tho it should be e'en in your own defence.
+It better were without the Crown to die,
+Than quit your Vertue and blest Loyaltie.
+You with the numerous Peoples Love are blest,
+Not of the Vulgars onely, but the Best.
+I would not have you their kind Love repel,
+Nor give encouragement for to rebel:
+For their Affection which they wildly shew,
+Is rendred, by your Foes, a Crime in you.
+Here you your Course must even steer and strait, }
+That you may not your Father's fears create;     }
+Keep the _Jews_ Love, and not increase his Hate. }
+Leave for a while the Citie and the Court,
+Go and divert your self with Country-sport;
+Perhaps your Foes may then abate their spight,
+And you may be forgot, when out of sight.
+By your Retirement, you will let them see
+You'd take away all cause of Jealousie.
+That you, like _Absalom_, will never prove,
+To court the head-strong Peoples factious Love.
+Nor will I ever prove _Achitophel_,
+To give you wicked Counsel to rebel.
+Continue still your Loyalty, be just;
+And for the Crown, God and your Vertue trust.
+Endeavour not to take what may be giv'n;
+Deserve it first, and then receive't from Heav'n.
+
+  He said, And this Advice above the rest,
+Suited with _Azaria_'s Vertue best.
+He was not stain'd with Cruelty or Pride;
+A thousand Graces he possest beside.
+To Vertue he was naturally inclin'd,
+And Goodness clothed his heroick Mind.
+His Kingly Vertues made him fit to reign,
+Yet scorn'd by evil Arts the Crown to gain.
+And tho he Empire to desire did seem,
+His Loyalty was still more dear to him:
+Therefore he did not court the Peoples Love,
+Nor us'd their Pow'r his Rival to remove.
+From's Father he fought not their Hearts to steal,
+Nor head a Faction mov'd by blinding Zeal;
+But like a vertuous and a pious Son,
+Sought all occasions of Offence to shun.
+In private like a common man sat down,
+His Peace his Rule, his Loyalty his Crown.
+
+  Thus humble, vertuous, loyal, void of Pride,
+Most of the _Jews_ he gained to his side.
+Not factious Sects, the Rabble, or the rude
+Erring, unthinking, vulgar Multitude:
+But the chief Tribes and Princes of the Land,
+Who durst for _Moses_'s ancient Statutes stand.
+The pious, just, religious, and the good,
+Men of great Riches, and of greater Bloud,
+Did, as one man, themselves together joyn
+To stop the _Baalites_, and Hell's curst design.
+Not wicked, or seduc'd by impious Arts,
+But Loyal all, and Patriots in their Hearts.
+For they beheld the _Baalites_ foul intent,
+Religion to o'rethrow and Government.
+These at the Monarch's Power did not grutch,
+Since bound by Laws, he could not have too much.
+What Laws prescribe, they thought he well might have,
+How could he else his Realm in danger save?
+But _Baal_'s or _Egypt_'s Yoke they would refuse,
+Not fitting for the Necks of free-born _Jews_.
+They all resolve the King not to oppose,
+Yet to defend the Nation from its Foes.
+And were it not for those great Worthy men,
+The _Jews_ distress'd and wretched soon had been.
+Among the Rout perhaps there some might blend,
+Whose int'rest made them Publick Good pretend;
+Weary of Peace, new Troubles would create,
+And for their private Gain, embroyl the State.
+And some perhaps there were, who thought a King
+To be of Charge, and but an useless thing.
+Some idle Fops, who publickly debate
+To shew their Parts, the deep Intrigues of State;
+These and some others, for a Commonwealth,
+Among the Herd, unseen, might hide by stealth:
+But it would strange to common Justice seem,
+For some few bad, the sound Flock to condemn.
+Like Goats among the Sheep, well known these bleat,
+And are like Darnel 'mong the purest Wheat.
+These not as Friends, but Enemies to the Throne,
+Good Patriots and good Subjects did disown.
+And _Azaria_, tho they us'd his name,
+Disdain'd their Friendship with a loyal shame.
+
+  But he beheld appearing on his side,
+Princes, whose Faith and Loyalty were try'd;
+Such as no base or sordid ends could move,
+Who did his Father and their Country love.
+In the first rank of these did _Nashon_ stand,
+None nobler or more loyal in the Land.
+Under the King he once did _Edom_ sway,
+And taught that Land the _Jews_ good Laws t'obey.
+True to his Word, and of unspotted Fame;
+Great both in Parts, in Vertue, and in Name.
+His Faith ne'r touch'd, his Loyalty well known,
+A Friend both to his Country and the Throne.
+Base ends his great and noble Soul did scorn,
+Of loyal, high, and noble Parents born.
+His Father with renown and great Applause,
+For _Joash_ di'd, and suffer'd for his Cause.
+Of great _Aminadab_ who would not sing,
+Whose glory shin'd next to the martyr'd King?
+From him his Son true Loyalty understood,
+Imprest on's Soul, seal'd with his Father's Bloud.
+The grave, religious, wife, rich _Helon_ too, }
+Much honoured by every zealous _Jew_,         }
+Appear'd a Patriot, to his Country true.      }
+In the _Jews_ Laws, and strict Religion bred,
+And _Baal_'s curst Rites did much abhor and dread.
+His Son _Eliab_, in the _Sanhedrim_,
+With courage had oppos'd _Eliakim_:
+A man whose many Vertues, and his Parts,
+Had won upon the sober Peoples Hearts.
+From every Faction, and from Envy free;     }
+Lov'd well the King, but hated Flatterie;   }
+Kept _Moses_'s Laws, yet was no _Pharisee_. }
+He went not to their _Synagogues_ to pray,
+But to the Holy Temple every day.
+With piercing Judgment saw the Lands Disease,
+And labour'd onely for the Kingdoms Peace:
+Loyal and honest was esteem'd by all,
+Excepting those who strove to set up _Baal_.
+For an ill Action he ne'r stood reprov'd;
+But's King, his Country, and Religion lov'd.
+No Taint ere fell upon _Eliab_'s name,
+Nor Hell it self found cause to spot his Fame.
+_Pagiel_ with honour loaded, and with years,
+Among this Loyal Princely Train appears.
+None _Pagiel_ tax'd, for no one ever knew
+That he to _Amazia_ was untrue.
+A Fame unspotted he might truly boast;
+Yet he had Foes, and his gain'd Favours lost.
+_Zuar_, a sober and a vertuous Prince,
+Who never gave least cause of an offence.
+_Elishama_, at once both sage and young,       }
+From noble and from loyal Fathers sprung,      }
+Shone bright among this sober Princely throng. }
+_Enan_, a Prince of very worthie Fame;
+Great in deserved Title, Bloud, and Name.
+_Elizur_ too, who number'd with the best
+In Vertue, scorn'd to lag behind the rest.
+_Abidon_ and _Gamaliel_ had some sway;
+Both loyal, and both zealous in their way.
+And now once more I will invoke my Muse,
+To sing brave _Ashur_'s praise who can refuse?
+Sprung from an ancient and a noble Race,
+With Courage stampt upon his manly face;
+Young, active, loyal; had through Dangers run,
+And with his Sword abroad had Honours won:
+Well-spoken, bold, free, generous, and kind,
+And of a noble and discerning mind.
+Great ones he scorn'd to court, nor fools would please,
+But thought it better for to trust the Seas.
+He thought himself far safer in a Storm,
+And should receive from raging Seas less harm,
+Than from those dangerous men, who could create
+A Storm at Land, with Envie and with Hate.
+And now got free from all their Trains and Wiles, }
+He at their hateful Plots and Malice smiles,      }
+Plowing the Ocean for new Honour toils.           }
+These were the chief; a good and faithful Band }
+Of Princes, who against those men durst stand  }
+Whose Counsel sought to ruine all the Land.    }
+With grief they saw the cursed _Baalites_ bent
+To batter down the _Jewish_ Government;
+To pull their Rights and true Religion down,
+By setting up a _Baalite_ on the Throne.
+These wisely did with the _Sanhedrim_ joyn;
+Which Council by the _Jews_ was thought divine.
+The next Successour would remove, 'tis true,
+Onely because he was a _Baalite_ Jew.
+Ills they foresaw, and the great danger found, }
+Which to the King (as by their Dutie bound)    }
+They shew'd, and open laid the bleeding Wound. }
+But such who had possest his Royal Ear,
+Had made the King his Loyal Subjects fear;
+Did their good Prince with causeless terrour fright,
+As if these meant to rob him of his Right.
+Said, They with other Rebels did combine,
+And had against his Crown some ill designe:
+That the wise _Hushai_ laid a wicked Train,
+And _Azaria_ sought in's stead to reign:
+That the old Plot to ruine Church and State,
+Was born from _Hushai_'s and the _Levite_'s Pate:
+That _Pharisees_ were bold and numerous grown,
+And sought to place their Elders in his Throne.
+No wonder then if _Amazia_ thought
+These Loyal Worthies did not as they ought;
+That they did Duty and Obedience want,
+And no Concessions from the Throne would grant.
+
+  They who in _Amazia_'s favour grew,
+Themselves obnoxious to the People knew.
+Some were accused by the _Sanhedrim_,
+Most Friends and Allies to _Eliakim_:
+For his Succession eagerly they strove,
+And him, the rising Sun, adore and love.
+When _Doeg_, who with _Egypt_ did combine,
+And to enslave _Judea_ did designe,
+Accus'd of Treason by the _Sanhedrim_,
+Kept in the Tower of _Jerusalem_;
+The Object prov'd of fickle Fortunes sport,
+And lost the Honours he possest at Court.
+_Elam_ in favour grew, out stript by none,
+And seem'd a Prop to _Amazia_'s Throne.
+He had in foreign parts been sent to School,
+And did in _Doeg_'s place the Kings thin Treasure rule.
+He to _Eliakim_ was neer alli'd;
+What greater parts could he possess beside?
+For the wise _Jews_ believ'd the King did run
+Some hazard, if he prov'd his Father's Son.
+But now, alas! th' Exchequer was grown poor,
+The Coffers empty, which did once run o're.
+The bounteous King had been so very kind,
+That little Treasure he had left behind.
+_Elam_ had gotten with the empty Purse,
+For his dead Father's sake the Peoples Curse:
+For they believ'd that no great good could spring
+From one false to his Country and his King.
+_Jotham_ the fickle Shuttle-cock of Wit,
+Was bandied several ways to be made fit:
+Unconstant, he always for Honour tri'd,
+At last laid hold upon the rising side.
+If Wit he had, 'twas thought, by not a few,
+He a better thing did want, and Wisdom too.
+Then _Amiel_ would scarce give place to him,
+Who once the chief was of the _Sanhedrim_.
+He then appeared for the Crowns defence;
+But spoke his own, and not the Nations sense.
+And tho he praised was by _Shimei_'s Muse,
+The _Jews_ of many Crimes did him accuse.
+_Harim_, a man like a bow'd Ninepence bent,
+Had tried all the ways of Government:
+Was once a Rebel, and knew how to cant;
+Then turn'd a very Devil of a Saint:
+Peevish, morose, and some say, prov'd a fool,
+When o're the _Edomites_ he went to rule.
+When to his bent the King he could not bring,
+He fairly then went over to the King.
+Old _Amalack_, a man of cunning head,
+Once in the cursed School of Rebels bred;
+From thence his Maximes and his Knowledge drew,
+Of old known Arts how to enslave the _Jew_.
+For pardon'd Treason, thus sought to atone,
+Had wrong'd the Father, would misguide the Son.
+Once in Religion a strict _Pharisee_,
+To _Baal_'s then turn'd, or else of none was he.
+He long before seem'd to approve their Rites,
+Marrying his issue to the _Baalites_.
+A constant hunter after sordid Pelf;
+Was never just to any but himself:
+A very _Proteus_ in all shapes had been,
+And constant onely, and grown old in sin.
+To speak the best of _Amalack_ we can,
+A cunning Devil in the shape of Man.
+_Muppim_, a man of an huge working Pate,
+Not how to heal, but to embroil the State;
+Knew how to take the wrong, and leave the right;
+Was once himself a Rebel _Benjamite_.
+To that stiff Tribe he did a while give Law,
+And with his iron Yokes kept them in aw.
+The Tyrant _Zabed_ less did them provoke,
+And laid upon their necks a gentler Yoke.
+Amongst that Tribe he left an hated Name,
+And to _Jerusalem_ from thence he came,
+Where he tyrannick Arts sought to intrude, }
+To learn which, _Amazia_ was too good,     }
+And better the _Jews_ temper understood.   }
+Refus'd, the Serpent did with Woman joyn,
+And Counsels gave th'_Egyptian_ Concubine.
+_Adam_, first Monarch, fell between these two;
+What can't the Serpent and a Woman do?
+These with some more of the like size and sort,
+In _Sion_ made up _Amazia_'s Court:
+Whilst his best friends became these Rulers scorn,
+Saw how they drove, and did in silence mourn.
+_Sion_ did then no Sacrifice afford;
+_Gibbar_ had taught the frugal King to board.
+Void were its Cellars, Kitchins never hot,
+And all the Feasts of _Solomon_ forgot.
+Others there were, whose Names I shan't repeat;
+_Eliakim_ had friends both small and great:
+And many, who then for his Favour strove,
+With their hot heads, like furious _Jehu_, drove.
+Some Wits, some Witless, Warriors, Rich and Poor,
+Some who rich Clothes and empty Titles wore;
+Some who knew how to rail, some to accuse,
+And some who haunted Taverns and the Stews.
+Some roaring Bullies, who ran th'row the Town
+Crying, God damn 'um, they'd support the Crown:
+Whose wicked Oaths, and whose blasphemous Rant,
+Had quite put down the holy zealous Cant.
+Some were for War, and some on Mischief bent;
+And some who could, for gain, new Plots invent.
+Some Priests and Levites too among the rest,
+Such as knew how to blow the Trumpet best:
+Who with loud noise and cackling, cri'd like Geese,
+For Rites, for Temple, and for dearer Fleece.
+'Twixt God and _Baal_, these Priests divided were; }
+Which did prevail, these greatly did not care;     }
+But headlong drove, without or wit or fear.        }
+The _Pharasees_ they curse, as Sons of _Cham,_
+And all dissenting _Jews_ to Hell they damn.
+_Shimei_ the Poet Laureate of that Age,
+The falling Glory of the _Jewish_ Stage,
+Who scourg'd the Priest, and ridicul'd the Plot,
+Like common men must not be quite forgot.
+Sweet was the Muse that did his wit inspire,
+Had he not let his hackney Muse to hire:
+But variously his knowing Muse could sing,
+Could _Doeg_ praise, and could blaspheme the King:
+The bad make good, good bad, and bad make worse,
+Bless in Heroicks, and in Satyrs curse.
+_Shimei_ to _Zabed_'s praise could tune his Muse,
+And Princely _Azaria_ could abuse.
+_Zimri_ we know he had no cause to praise,
+Because he dub'd him with the name of _Bays_.
+Revenge on him did bitter Venome shed,
+Because he tore the Lawrel from his head;
+Because he durst with his proud Wit engage,
+And brought his Follies on the publick Stage.
+Tell me, _Apollo_, for I can't divine,
+Why Wives he curs'd, and prais'd the Concubine;
+Unless it were that he had led his life
+With a teeming Matron ere _she_ was a Wife:
+Or that it best with his dear Muse did sute,
+Who was for hire a very Prostitute.
+The rising Sun this Poets God did seem,
+Which made him tune's old Harp to praise _Eliakim_.
+_Bibbai_, whose name won't in Oblivion rot,
+For his great pains to hide the _Baalites_ Plot,
+Must be remembred here: A Scribe was he,
+Who daily damn'd in Prose the _Pharisee_.
+With the Sectarian _Jews_ he kept great stir;
+Did almost all, but his dear self, abhor.
+What his Religion was, no one could tell;
+And it was thought he knew himself not well:
+Yet Conscience did pretend, and did abuse,
+Under the notion of Sectarian _Jews_,
+All that he thought, or all that did but seem
+Foes to _Baal_'s Rites, _Eliakim_, and him.
+He was a man of a pernicious Wit
+For railing, biting, and for mischief fit:
+He never slept, yet ever in a Dream;
+Religion, Law, and State, was all his Theam.
+On these he wrote in _Earnest_ and in _Jeast_,
+Till he grew mad, and turn'd into a Beast,
+_Zattue_ his Zanie was, Buffoon, and Fool,
+Who turn'd Religion into Ridicule:
+Jeer'd at the Plot, did _Sanhedrims_ abuse,
+Mock'd Magistrates, damn'd all Sects of the _Jews_.
+Of little Manners, and of lesser Brains;
+Yet to embroil the State, took wondrous pains.
+In jeasting still his little Talent lay;
+At _Hushai_ scoft in's witless grinning way.
+
+  These with the rest, of every size and sort,      }
+Strove to be thought Friends to the King and Court, }
+With lyes and railing, would the Crown support.     }
+Then in a Pageant shew a Plot was made,
+And Law it self made War in Masquerade.
+But fools they were, not warn'd by former ill,
+By their own selves were circumvented still.
+They thought by Bloud to give the Kingdom ease;
+Physick'd the _Jews_ when they had no Disease.
+Contingent mischiefs these did not foresee,
+Against their Conscience fought, and God's Decree.
+What shall we think, when such, pretending good,
+Would build the Nations Peace on Innocent Blood?
+These would expose the People to the Sword
+Of each unbounded Arbitrary Lord.
+But their good Laws, by which they Right enjoy,
+The King nor could, nor ever would destroy.
+And tho he Judge be of what's fit and just,
+He own'd from Heaven, and from Man a Trust.
+Tho Laws to Kingly Power be a Band,
+They are not Slaves to those whom they command.
+The Power that God at first to _Adam_ gave,
+Was different far from what all Kings now have:
+He had no Law but Will; but all Kings now
+Are bound by Laws, as all Examples show.
+By Laws Kings first were made, and with intent
+Men to defend, by Heav'n's and Man's consent.
+God to the Crown the Regal Power did bring,
+And by Consent at first, Men chose their King.
+If Kings usurp'd a Power, by force did sway,
+The People by no Law were bound t'obey.
+This does not in the People place a Right
+To dissolve Soveraign sway by force or might.
+To Kings, by long succession, there is giv'n
+A native Right unto the Throne, by Heav'n:
+Who may not be run down by common Cry,
+For Vice, Oppression, and for Tyranny.
+But if that Kings the tyes of Laws do break,
+The People, without fault, have leave to speak;
+To shew their Grievances, and seek redress
+By lawful means, when Kings and Lords oppress.
+Tho they can't give and take, whene'r they please,
+And Kings allow'd to be God's Images.
+The Government you Tyranny must call,
+Where Subjects have no Right, and Kings have all.
+But if reciprocal a Right there be,
+Derived down unto Posteritie,
+That side's in fault, who th'other doth invade,
+By which soe'r at first the breach is made:
+For Innovation is a dangerous thing,
+Whether it comes from People or from King.
+To change Foundations which long Ages stood,
+Which have prov'd firm, unshaken, sound, and good,
+To pull all down, and cast the Frame anew,
+Is work for Rebels, and for Tyrants too.
+
+  Now what relief could _Amazia_ bring,
+Fatal indeed to be too good a King?
+Friends he had many, but them did not know,
+Or else made to believe they were not so:
+For all that did ill Ministers oppose,
+Were represented to him as his Foes.
+Yet there were many thousands in those days,
+Who _Amazia_ did both love and praise;
+Who for him daily pray'd, and wish'd his good,
+And for him would have spent both Coin and Bloud.
+Yet these, tho the more numerous, and the best,
+Were call'd but murmuring Traytors by the rest:
+By such who strain'd till they had crackt the string
+Of Government; lov'd Pow'r, and not the King
+These daily hightned _Amazia_'s fears,
+And thus they whisper'd to his Royal Ears:
+
+  Sir, it is time you now take up the Sword,
+And let your Subjects know you are their Lord.
+Goodness by Rebels won't be understood,
+And you are much too wonderful and good.
+The _Jews_, a moody, murmuring, stubborn Race,
+Grow worse by Favours, and rebel with Grace.
+Pamper'd they are, grown rich and fat with ease,
+Whom no good Monarch long could ever please.
+Freedom and Liberty pretend to want;
+That's still the cry, where they're on Mischief bent.
+Freedom is their Disease; and had they less,
+They would not be so ready to transgress.
+Give them but Liberty, let them alone,
+They shall not onely you, but God dethrone.
+Remember, Sir, how your good Father fell;
+It was his goodness made them first rebel.
+And now the very self-same tract they tread,
+To reach your Crown, and then take off your head.
+A senseless Plot they stumbl'd on, or made,
+To make you of th'old _Canaanites_ afraid.
+Still when they mean the Nation to enthral,
+With heavie Clamour they cry out on _Baal_.
+But these hot Zealots who _Baal_'s Idols curse,
+Bow to their own more ugly far and worse.
+_Baal_ would but rob some Jewels from your Crown,
+But these would Monarchy itself pull down:
+Both Church and State they'l not reform by Halves,
+Pull down the Temple, and set up their Calves.
+You, and your Priests, they would turn out to Graze,
+Nor would they let you smell a Sacrifize,
+Those pious Offerings which Priests lasie made,
+To Rebels, should, instead of God be paid.
+How to the Prey these factious _Jews_ do run!
+From you by art they have debauch'd your Son;
+That little subtle Instrument of Hell,
+Worse than to _David_ was _Achitophel_,
+The young Man tutors, sends him through the Land,
+That he the peoples minds may understand;
+That he, with winning Charms, might court the _Jew_,
+And draw your fickle Subjects hearts from you.
+Alas! already they of you Complain.
+And are grown sick of your too peaceful Reign,
+Their Lusts grown high, they are debauch'd with Grace,
+And like unfrozen Snakes fly in your Face.
+These men who now pretend to give you Law,
+Stood of the Tyrant _Zabed_'s power in awe;
+He made them crouch who scorn'd a Prince's sway,
+And forc'd them, like dull slaves, his power obey.
+Of _Israel_, and of _Juda_'s Tribe you spring,
+A Lion is the Ensign of a King,
+Rouse up your self, in mildness sleep no more,
+And make them tremble at your princely roar:
+Appear like _Jove_ with Thunder in your hand,
+And let the Slaves your power understand;
+Strike but the sinning Princes Down to Hell,
+The rest will worship you, and ne'r rebel.
+
+  Thus these rash Men with their bad Counsels strove,
+To turn to hate good _Amazia_'s Love.
+A Prince to Mercy naturally inclin'd,         }
+Not apt to fear, nor of a Jealous Mind,       }
+Thought no Man e'r against his Life design'd, }
+But these with Art did dangers represent,
+And Plots they fram'd the People never meant.
+Each Mole hill they a Mountain did create,
+And sought to fright him with his Fathers Fate.
+_Hushai_ at last was to a Prison sent,
+As a false Traitor to the Government.
+Loud murmurs then possest the troubled _Jews_,
+Who were surprised at the fatal News;
+His Wisdom they believed their chief support,
+Against the evil Instruments at Court;
+Nor, by his Actions, did they ever find,
+He bore a Trait'rous, or a factious Mind:
+And now they thought themselves expos'd to all
+The Arts, and Plots of the hid friends to _Baal_.
+Troubled, and discontented, at the last,
+Their Eyes upon the noble Prince they cast.
+Who fearing lest their discontent and rage,
+Should them, to some rebellious Crime ingage,
+Both for his Fathers, and his Countries sake,
+The murmuring People sought more calm to make.
+With a sweet Air, and with a graceful look,
+He did command their silence, e'er he spoke.
+Then thus he said, and though his words were few,
+They fell like Manna, or the Hony Dew;
+
+  My Country-men, Let not your discontent
+Draw you to actions you will soon repent,
+What e'er your fears and jealousies may be,
+Let them not break the bonds of Loyalty.
+I dare, and you may too, my Father trust,
+For he's so merciful, so good, so just,
+That he of no mans Life will make a Prey,
+Or take it in an Arbitrary way,
+To Heav'n, and to the King submit your cause,
+Who never will infringe your ancient Laws;
+But if he should an evil Action do,
+To run to Arms, 'tis no pretence for you.
+The King is Judge of what is just and fit,
+And if he judge amiss you must submit,
+Tho griev'd you must your constant duty pay,
+And your Redress seek in a lawful way.
+_Hushai_ tho he of Treason be accus'd,
+Such loyal precepts in my soul infus'd,
+That I the hazard of my life will run,
+Rather than prove my self a Rebel Son.
+Our Foes, have sought to' infect my Father's mind,
+To think, you to Rebellion are inclin'd:
+To stir you to Rebellion is their aim,
+And they are mad, to see you justly tame.
+Upon your Heads, they fain would lay their sin,
+'Tis War they seek, but would have you begin:
+Pretence they want, who for the King do seem,
+To bring in, and set up _Eliakim_.
+I am afraid the _Baalites_ cursed Plot,
+By many laught at, and by most forgot,
+Is carried on still, in their hidden Mine,
+I fear, but dare not, the event, divine.
+May Heav'n defend my Father's Life, and late,
+Full ripe with Age, in peace, may he'yield to Fate.
+I know, my Friends, for Him's your chiefest Care,
+For him, as much as for your selves, you fear,
+Upon his Life our happiness depends,
+With it the peace of all _Judea_ ends,
+Be vigilant, your foes Designs prevent,
+Let not loud murmures shew your discontent:
+Your Loyal Duty to your Soveraign pay,
+Your Griefs present him in a Lawful way:
+Be not too anxious for our common Friend,
+God, and his Innocence will him defend:
+Sit down in quiet, murmure not, but pray,
+Submit to Heaven, your King, and Laws obey.
+Youth, Beauty, and the Grace wherewith he spoke,
+The Eyes, Ears, Hearts, of all the people took,
+Their murmures then to joyful shouts were turn'd,
+And they rejoyc'd, who lately murmuring mourn'd:
+With Loyalty he did their Breasts inflame,
+And they with shouts blest _Azaria_'s name.
+The joyful Cry th'row all the City flew,
+God save the King, and _Azaria_ too.
+To him the Princes, his best Friends resort,
+Resolv'd as Suppliants, to repair to Court;
+In humble wise, to shew the King their Grief,
+And on their bended Knees to seek Relief.
+They 'approach'd the Throne, to it their homage paid,
+Then to the King, the Loyal _Nashon_ said.
+Great Sir, whom all good Subjects truly Love,
+Tho all things that you do they can't approve,
+We, whom the Throne has with high Honours blest,
+Present you here the prayers of the rest;
+Our bended Knees, as low as Earth we bow,
+And humbly prostrate supplicate you now:
+The blessing of your Love to us restore,
+And raise us to your Favour, Sir, once more.
+Where is the Joy, the Peace, and Quiet flown,
+All had, when first you did ascend the Throne;
+Now murmuring discontents assault our Ears,
+And loud Complaints of jealousies, and fears:
+Bad instruments help to blow up this Fire,
+And with ill minds, their own worse Arts admire,
+Whilst, by their means, you think your Friends your Foes,
+For your best friends, your Enemies suppose;
+Suspect your Loyal Subjects, and believe
+The _Sanhedrim_ would you of Rights bereive.
+Your people, who do love your gentle Sway,
+And willingly their God, and you obey,
+Who for Religion ever zealous were,
+For that, for you, and for themselves do fear.
+Clear as the Sun, by sad effects they find,
+A _Baalite_ to succeed you is design'd:
+Sir, they would not dispute with you, his right,
+But they can n're indure a _Baalite_:
+Tho whilst you live, they are secure and blest,
+Yet are they with a thousand fears opprest,
+Think your Life still in danger of the Plot,
+Which now is laugh'd at, and almost forgot.
+They see the _Baalites_ Hellish Plot run down,
+And on the _Pharisees_ a false one thrown;
+Your zealous faithful _Jews_ all Rebels made,
+Their ruine hatch'd, you, and themselves betray'd.
+Oh! Sir, before things to extreams do run,
+Remember, at the least, you have a Son,
+Let the _Sanhedrim_ with your wisdom joyn,
+To keep unbroken still the Royal line;
+And to secure our fears, that after you,
+None shall succeed but a believing _Jew_.
+Sir, this is all your Loyal Subjects Crave,
+On you, as on a God, they cry to save.
+Kings are like Gods on Earth, when they redress,
+Their peoples Griefs, and save them in distress.
+With loads of careful thoughts, the King opprest,
+And long revolving in his Royal Breast,
+Th' event of Things-----at last he silence broke,
+And, with an awful Majesty, he spoke.
+I've long in Peace _Judeas_ Scepter swaid,
+None can Complain, I Justice have delay'd:
+My Clemency, and Mercy has been shown,
+Blood, and Revenge did ne'r pollute my Throne;
+I and my People happy, kindly strove,
+Which should exceed, my Mercy or their Love:
+Who, till of late, more ready were to give
+Supplies to me, than I was to receive.
+Oh! happy days, and oh! unhappy change;
+That makes my _Sanhedrims_, and my people strange,
+And now, when I am in the Throne grown old,
+With grief I see my Subjects Love prove cold.
+They fear not my known Mercy to offend,
+And with my awful Justice dare contend;
+But yet their Crimes my mercy shan't asswage,
+I'm ready to forgive th' offending Age,
+And though they should my Kingly power slight,
+I'le still keep for them my forgiving right.
+I feel a tenderness within me spring,
+I am my Peoples Father, and their King,
+And tho I think, they may have done me wrong.
+I can't remember their offences long.
+Nature is mov'd, and sues for a Reprieve,
+They are my Children, and I must forgive.
+My many jealous fears I shan't repeat,
+My Heart with a strong pulse of Love doth beat;
+Nature I feel has made a sudden start,
+And a fresh source springs from the Father's heart.
+A stubborn Bow, drawn by the force of men,
+The force remov'd, flies swifty back agen.
+'Tis hard a Fathers nature to o'ercome,
+How easily does she her force assume!
+Sh' has o'er my Soul an easie Conquest won,
+And I remember now I have a Son,
+Whose Youth had long been my paternal Care,
+Rais'd to the height his noble frame could bear,
+And Heav'n has seem'd to give his Soul a turn,
+As if ordain'd by Fate for Empire born.
+By our known Laws I have the Scepter sway'd,
+By them I govern'd, them my Rule I made.
+To them I sought to frame my soveraign Will,
+By them my Subjects I will govern still:
+They, not the People, shall proclaim my Heir, }
+Yet I will hearken to my Subjects Prayer,     }
+And of a _Baalite_ will remove their fear.    }
+From hence I'le banish every Priest of _Baal_,
+And the wise _Sanhedrim_ together call:
+That Body with the Kingly Head shall join,
+Their Counsel and their Wisdom mix with mine,
+All former strife betwixt us be forgot,
+And in Oblivion buried every Plot.
+We'l try to live in Love and Peace again,
+As when I first began my happy Reign.
+Before our Trait'rous Foes with secret toil
+Did fair _Judea_'s blessed Peace embroil.
+May all my latter days excel my first,
+And he who then disturbs our Peace be curst.
+
+  He said: Th' Almighty heard, and from on high
+Spoke his Consent, in Thunder through the Skie:
+The Augurie was noted by the Croud,
+Who joyful shouts return'd almost as loud:
+Then _Amazia_ was once more restor'd,
+He lov'd his People, they obey'd their Lord.
+
+_FINIS._
+
+
+[Errata:
+
+  an Author, whose Wit has deservedly / gained the Bays;
+    _"Bays" unclear_
+  the Horny or Ivory Port
+    _so in original: "Part"?_
+
+  'Twas fear'd they'd fall at last from Words to Blows.
+    _invisible apostrophe_
+  He fears your Wisdom, may his Hindrance prove,
+    _text reads "Hndrance"_
+  Religion to o'rethrow and Government.
+    _text reads "Governmenr"_
+  And _Azaria_, tho they us'd his name,
+    _text reads "tehy"_
+  From you by art they have debauch'd your Son;
+    _text reads "debauch,d"_
+  Full ripe with Age, in peace, may he'yield to Fate.
+    _so in original: "he yield" or (metrical) "h'yield"?_
+  The force remov'd, flies swifty back agen.
+    _see Editor's Introduction, References, for "swifty"_ ]
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's Anti-Achitophel (1682), by Elkanah Settle et al.
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+
+Project Gutenberg's Anti-Achitophel (1682), by Elkanah Settle et al.
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Anti-Achitophel (1682)
+       Three Verse Replies to Absalom and Achitophel by John Dryden
+
+Author: Elkanah Settle et al.
+
+Editor: Harold Whitmore Jones
+
+Release Date: June 6, 2006 [EBook #18517]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ANTI-ACHITOPHEL (1682) ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Louise Hope, David Starner, Suzanne Lybarger
+and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at
+http://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+
+<div class = "mynote">
+A few typographical errors have been corrected. They have been
+marked in the text with <ins class = "mycorr" title =
+"like this">mouse-hover popups</ins>.<br>
+<br>
+The continuous page numbers in the left margin are from the facsimile
+edition. Those in the right margin are from the original works, with
+brackets or parentheses as in the original. Folio numbers, when
+used, are shown directly below the page number; they were originally
+printed at the bottom center of the page.
+</div>
+
+<h1 class = "ital">Anti-Achitophel</h1>
+
+<h5>(1682)</h5>
+
+<h5 class = "section">THREE VERSE REPLIES TO</h5>
+
+<h5><i>Absalom and Achitophel</i> by <span class = "smallcaps">John
+Dryden</span></h5>
+
+<h4 class = "section"><i>Absalom Senior</i> by Elkanah Settle</h4>
+
+<h4><i>Poetical Reflections</i> by Anonymous</h4>
+
+<h4><i>Azaria and Hushai</i> by Samuel Pordage</h4>
+
+<h6 class = "chapter">FACSIMILE REPRODUCTIONS<br>
+EDITED WITH AN INTRODUCTION<br>
+BY</h6>
+
+<h4>HAROLD WHITMORE JONES</h4>
+
+<h5 class = "smallcaps chapter">Gainesville, Florida</h5>
+<h4>SCHOLARS&rsquo; FACSIMILES &amp; REPRINTS</h4>
+<h5>1961</h5>
+
+<hr>
+
+<h6 class = "smallcaps">SCHOLARS&rsquo; FACSIMILES &amp; REPRINTS<br>
+118 N. W. 26th Street<br>
+Gainesville, Florida<br>
+Harry R. Warfel, General Editor</h6>
+
+<h6 class = "section">REPRODUCED FROM COPIES IN</h6>
+
+<h5>BRITISH MUSEUM</h5>
+
+<h5>UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA LIBRARY</h5>
+
+<h6 class = "smallcaps">L. C. Catalog Card Number: 60-6430</h6>
+
+<h6 class = "chapter">MANUFACTURED IN THE U.S.A.<br>
+LETTERPRESS BY J. N. ANZEL, INC.<br>
+PHOTOLITHOGRAPHY BY EDWARDS BROTHERS<br>
+BINDING BY UNIVERSAL-DIXIE BINDERY</h6>
+
+<hr>
+
+<p class = "contents">
+<a href = "#editor">Editor’s Introduction</a><br>
+<a href = "#editor_allus">Allusions</a><br>
+<a href = "#editor_refs">References</a></p>
+<p class = "contents">
+<a href = "#senior">Absalom Senior</a><br>
+<a href = "#senior_intro">Introduction</a><br>
+<a href = "#senior_text">Text</a><br>
+<a href = "#senior_errata">Errata</a></p>
+<p class = "contents">
+<a href = "#reflec">Poetical Reflections</a><br>
+<a href = "#reflec_intro">Introduction</a><br>
+<a href = "#reflec_text">Text</a></p>
+<p class = "contents">
+<a href = "#azaria">Azaria and Hushai</a><br>
+<a href = "#azaria_intro">Introduction</a><br>
+<a href = "#azaria_text">Text</a></p>
+
+<hr>
+
+<span class = "facpage">iii</span>
+<h4 class = "editor"><a name = "editor">INTRODUCTION</a></h4>
+
+<p class = "editor">English verse allegory, humorous or serious,
+political or moral, has deep roots; a reprint such as the present is
+clearly no place for a discussion of the subject at large:<a class =
+"tag" name = "tag1" href = "#note1">1</a> it need only be recalled here
+that to the age that produced <i>The Pilgrim's Progress</i> the art form
+was not new. Throughout his life Dryden had his enemies, Prior and
+Montague in their satire of <i>The Hind and the Panther</i>, for
+example. The general circumstances under which Dryden wrote <i>Absalom
+and Achitophel</i>, familiar enough and easily accessible, are therefore
+recalled only briefly below. Information is likewise readily available
+on his use of Biblical allegory.<a class = "tag" name = "tag2" href =
+"#note2">2</a></p>
+
+<p class = "editor">
+We are here concerned with three representative replies to <i>Absalom
+and Achitophel</i>: their form, their authors, and details of their
+publication. Settle's poem was reprinted with one slight alteration a
+year after its first appearance; the <i>Reflections</i> has since been
+reprinted in part, Pordage's poem not at all. <i>Absalom Senior</i> has
+been chosen because, of the many verse pieces directed against Dryden's
+poem, it is of the greatest intrinsic merit and shows the reverse side
+of the medal, as it were, to that piece; the second is given, not for
+any literary merit it may possess--indeed, from its first appearance it
+has been dismissed as of small worth--but rather as a poem
+representative of much of the versifying that followed hard on the
+Popish Plot and as one that has inspired great speculation as to its
+author; the third, in addition to throwing light on the others, is a
+typical specimen of the lesser work produced in the Absalom dispute.</p>
+
+
+<p class = "editor">
+The author and precise publication date of the <i>Reflections</i> remain
+unidentified. Ascription of the poem to Buckingham rests ultimately on
+the authority of Wood's <i>Athenae Oxonienses</i> and on Wood alone, and
+we do not know on what evidence he thought it to be Buckingham's; we do
+know, however, that Wood was often mistaken over such matters. Sir
+Walter Scott in his collected edition of Dryden (1808; IX, 272-5) also
+accepted Buckingham as the author, but cited no authority; he printed
+extracts, yet the shortcomings of his edition, whatever its convenience,
+are well known. The poem has not appeared in any subsequent edition of
+Dryden's poems, the latest being the
+<span class = "facpage">iv</span>
+four volume set (Oxford, 1958); the volume of the California Dryden
+relevant to <i>Absalom</i> is still awaited.<a class = "tag" name =
+"tag_a" href = "#note_a">A</a> Internal evidence is even more scanty.
+Only one passage of the <i>Reflections</i> (sig.&nbsp;D2) may bear on
+the matter. Perhaps the "Three-fold Might" (p.&nbsp;7, line&nbsp;11)
+refers, not to the poet's "tripartite design" (p.&nbsp;7, line&nbsp;10)
+or to the Triple Alliance of England, Holland, and Sweden against France
+(1677/8, as in <i>Absalom and Achitophel</i>, line 175) but either to a
+treatise which had occasioned some stir in the scientific world some
+twenty years previously: "the Delphic problem" proposed by Hobbes to the
+Royal Society on the duplication of the cube, which might have come to
+the ears of Buckingham as well as to those of the court,<a class = "tag"
+name = "tag3" href = "#note3">3</a> or perhaps to the triple confederacy
+of Essex, Halifax, and Sunderland.<a class = "tag" name = "tag4" href =
+"#note4">4</a> But to the Restoration reader the phrase "Three-fold
+Might" would rather have suggested the Triple Alliance, to which Dryden
+reverts in <i>The Medal</i> (lines 65-68) when he claims that
+Shaftesbury, "thus fram'd for ill, ... loos'd our Triple Hold" on
+Europe.<a class = "tag" name = "tag5" href = "#note5">5</a></p>
+
+<p class = "editor">
+Evidence against Buckingham's authorship, on the other hand, is
+comparatively strong. The piece does not appear in his collected
+<i>Works</i> (1704-5). It surely would have been included even though he
+had at first wished to claim any credit from its publication and later
+have wished to disown it. Little connection, furthermore, will be found
+between the <i>Reflections</i> and the rest of his published verse or
+with the plays, including <i>The Rehearsal</i>, if the latter be his
+alone, which is doubtful.</p>
+
+<p class = "editor">
+<i>Poetical Reflections</i> has been ascribed to Edward Howard. W.
+Thomas Lowndes in his <i>Bibliographer's Manual</i> (1864; II, 126)
+assigned to this minor writer, on the authority of an auction note, the
+little collection <i>Poems and Essays, with a Paraphrase on Cicero's
+Laelius, or, Of Friendship ... By a Gentleman</i> (1674), and G.
+Thorn-Drury, on the equally debatable evidence of an anonymous
+manuscript ascription on the title page of his own copy, ascribed the
+<i>Poetical Reflections</i> to Howard.<a class = "tag" name = "tag6"
+href = "#note6">6</a> An examination of the <i>Poems and Essays</i>,
+however, reveals no point of resemblance with our poem. How, then, does
+Howard fit into the picture? He was in the rival camp to Dryden and was
+a friend of Martin Clifford<a class = "tag" name = "tag7" href =
+"#note7">7</a> and of Thomas Sprat, then Buckingham's chaplain: these
+three have been thought to be jointly responsible for <i>The
+Rehearsal</i>. Sprat had published a poem of congratulation to Howard on
+Howard's <i>The British Princes</i> (1669), the latter a long
+pseudo-epic
+<span class = "facpage">v</span>
+of the Blackmore style in dreary couplets which, again, provides no
+parallel with the <i>Reflections</i>. And what of Howard's plays? Many
+of these were written in the 1660's during his poetic apprenticeship;
+none seems akin to our poem. Whereas, as shown in the Table of Allusions
+below, two independent readers often agreed over the identities of many
+characters in Settle's poem, Restoration readers at large were reticent
+over the authorship of the <i>Reflections</i>. Hugh Macdonald, in his
+useful <i>John Dryden: a Bibliography</i> (1939), was wise to follow
+their example, and it seems rash, therefore, to propose any new
+candidate in the face of such negative evidence. The poem exists in two
+states, apparently differing only in the title page.</p>
+
+<p class = "editor">
+Evidence of Settle's authorship of <i>Absalom Senior</i>, on the other
+hand, is neither wanting nor disputed. We have had to wait until our own
+century for the pioneer work on this writer, since he cannot have been
+considered a sufficiently major poet by Samuel Johnson's sponsors, and
+Langbaine's account is sketchy. In a periodical paper<a class = "tag"
+name = "tag8" href = "#note8">8</a> Macdonald summarized supplementary
+evidence on the dates of composition of Settle's poem; he was working on
+it in January 1681/2, and it was published on the following April 6.
+Lockyer, Dean of Peterborough, asserted to Joseph Spence, who includes
+the rumor in <i>Anecdotes</i>, that Settle was assisted by Clifford and
+Sprat and by "several best hands of those times";<a class = "tag" name =
+"tag9" href = "#note9">9</a> but Spence is notoriously unreliable. In
+the lack of other evidence, then, it seems best to take the poem as
+wholly Settle's. It needs only to add a few words on its textual states.
+The First Edition, here reproduced, seems to exist in a single
+impression, and likewise the Second Edition of the Settle (1682, in
+quarto) seems to have been struck off in a single textual state. Of its
+individual variants from the First Edition only the following seem of
+any significance and, since there is no reason to suppose that it was
+printed from any copy other than the First, they may be merely the
+result of carelessness.</p>
+
+<table class = "editor">
+<tr>
+<td colspan = "3">
+FIRST EDITION</td>
+<td>SECOND EDITION</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class = "number">p. 3,</td>
+<td class = "number">line 4,</td>
+<td>enthron'd, with</td>
+<td>inthron'd with</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class = "number">3&nbsp;</td>
+<td class = "number">8,</td>
+<td>Arts ... steps</td>
+<td>Art's ... step's</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class = "number">11&nbsp;</td>
+<td class = "number">10,</td>
+<td>Rods;</td>
+<td>Rods?</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class = "number">13&nbsp;</td>
+<td class = "number">26,</td>
+<td>to Descend</td>
+<td>do Descend</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class = "number">14&nbsp;</td>
+<td class = "number">17,</td>
+<td>couch,</td>
+<td>couch</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class = "number">29&nbsp;</td>
+<td class = "number">9,</td>
+<td>Cedar</td>
+<td>Cedars</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td class = "number">31&nbsp;</td>
+<td class = "number">21,</td>
+<td>Temples</td>
+<td>Temple</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class = "editor">
+For "No Link ... night" (p.&nbsp;35, lines 19-24), the Second Edition
+substitutes, for an undetermined reason, the following:</p>
+
+<p class = "verse inline editor">
+No less the Lordly Zelecks Glory sound<br>
+For courage and for Constancy renoun'd:<br>
+Though once in naught but borrow'd plumes adorn'd,<br>
+So much all servile Flattery he scorn'd;<br>
+That though he held his Being and Support,<br>
+By that weak Thread the Favour of a Court,<br>
+In Sanhedrims unbrib'd, he firmly bold<br>
+Durst Truth and Israels Right unmov'd uphold;<br>
+In spight of Fortune, still to Honour wed,<br>
+By Justice steer'd, though by Dependence fed.</p>
+
+<p class = "space editor">
+Very little can be said of Pordage's poem, beyond its date of
+publication (January 17, 1681/2)<a class = "tag" name = "tag10" href =
+"#note10">10</a> and the fact that no parallel has been found with his
+earlier work. As no detailed study on him, published or unpublished, has
+been traced, we can only have recourse to the standard works on the
+period; data thus easily accessible are not therefore reproduced here. A
+so-called second edition (MacDonald 205b) is identical with the
+first.</p>
+
+<p class = "editor">
+In conclusion a few comments may be made on the general situation into
+which the poems fit. It will be remembered that <i>Absalom and
+Achitophel</i> appeared after the Exclusion Bill, the purpose of which
+was to debar James Duke of York from the Protestant succession, had been
+rejected by the House of Lords, mainly through the efforts of Halifax.
+Dryden's poem was advertised on November 17, 1681, and we may safely
+assume that it was published only a short time before Settle and our
+other authors were hired by the Whigs to answer it. Full details have
+not survived; one suspects Shaftesbury's Green Ribbon Club. That such
+replies were considered necessary testifies both to the popularity of
+<i>Absalom and Achitophel</i> with the layman in politics and to the
+Whigs' fear of its harming their cause. Settle's was of course a
+mercenary pen, and it is amusing to note that after ridiculing Halifax
+here he was quite prepared to publish, fourteen years later, <i>Sacellum
+Apollinare: a Funeral Poem to the Memory of that Great Statesman, George
+Late Marquiss of Halifax</i>, and on this count his place among Pope's
+Dunces seems merited. In tracing his quarrel with Dryden up to the
+publication of <i>Absalom Senior</i>, critics have tended to overlook
+the fact that by 1680 there was already hostility between the two;<a
+class = "tag" name = "tag11" href = "#note11">11</a> less has been said
+about the effect on Dryden of the poets themselves. The spleen of his
+contributions to the Second Part of <i>Absalom and Achitophel</i> is
+essentially a manufactured one and for the public entertainment;
+personally he was comparatively unmoved--the Og portrait,
+<span class = "facpage">vii</span>
+for example, is less representative than his words in "The Epistle to
+the Whigs" prefixed to <i>The Medal</i>. Here, as in <i>Mac
+Flecknoe</i>, he appears to have been able to write vituperation to
+order. "I have only one favor to desire of you at parting," he says, and
+it is "that when you think of answering this poem, you would employ the
+same pens against it, who have combated with so much success against
+<i>Absalom and Achitophel</i>; for then you may assure yourselves of a
+clear victory, without the least reply." Is it for the best that this
+forecast proved the right one?</p>
+
+<p class = "editor">
+For permission to reproduce their copies of texts comprising the present
+reprint thanks are expressed to the University of Florida Library
+(<i>Absalom Senior</i>) and to the Trustees of the British Museum (the
+other two poems). The University of Leeds and the City of Manchester
+Public Library are also thanked for leave to use contemporary marginalia
+in each's copy of Settle's poem. The provenance of the latter two copies
+of this piece is unknown; the first, now in the Brotherton Collection,
+bears the name William Crisp on its last blank leaf and, in abbreviated
+form, identifies some characters; the second, of unidentified ownership,
+is fuller.</p>
+
+<p class = "rightpad editor" align = "right">HAROLD WHITMORE JONES</p>
+
+<p class = "ital editor">Liverpool, England</p>
+
+<p class = "leftpad ital editor">November, 1959</p>
+
+
+<h4 class = "section editor"><a name = "editor_allus">TABLE OF
+ALLUSIONS</a></h4>
+
+<h5 class = "editor">NAMES</h5>
+
+<p class = "editor">
+The persons and places referred to in the allegories are identified in
+the following lists of names. M indicates the ascription in the
+Manchester copy; B, that in the Leeds University copy. Within the list
+for each poem, names similarly used in <i>Absalom and Achitophel</i> are
+omitted; those used with a different meaning are marked with an
+asterisk.</p>
+
+<table class = "editor">
+<tr>
+<td colspan = "2" align = "center">
+ABSALOM SENIOR</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td width = "50%">
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Absalom</i>, Duke of York</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Achitophel</i>, Halifax</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Adriel</i>, Earl of Huntington</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Amasai</i>, Earl of Macclesfield (M,&nbsp;B)</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Amnon</i>, Godfrey</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Amiel</i>, Buckingham (B)</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Amram</i>, Sir William Jones</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Arabia</i>, Portugal</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Ashur</i>, Fourth Lord Herbert of Cherbury (M)</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Babylon</i>, Rome</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Barak</i>, Drake</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Barzillai</i>, Shaftesbury (B)</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Caleb</i>, Laurence Hyde, son of Clarendon (B)</p>
+<span class = "facpage">viii</span>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Camries</i>, Third Lord Howard of Escrick (M)</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Corah</i>, Sir Edward Seymour (B)</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Deborah</i>, Queen Elizabeth</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Endor</i>, Oxford (B)</p>
+</td>
+<td>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Geshur</i>, Ireland</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Hanaan</i>, Lord Nottingham</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Hazor</i>, Spain</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Helon</i>, First Duke of Bedford</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Hothriel</i>, Slingsby Bethell</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Hushai</i>, Earl of Argyll</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Ithream</i>, Monmouth</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Jabin</i>, Philip II</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Jonas</i>, ?Sir William Gregory (M&nbsp;glosses as Seymour; <i>see
+Corah</i>)</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Jotham</i>, Earl of Essex</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Laura</i>, Anne Reeve</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Levitick chiefs</i>, English bishops (B)</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Micah</i>, Sir William Williams, Speaker of the Commons</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Nadab</i>, Lauderdale</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Shimei</i>, Jeffreys (B)</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Sidon</i>, Denmark</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Sisera</i>, Medina Sidonia</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Zeleck</i>, unidentified</p>
+</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<table class = "editor">
+<tr>
+<td colspan = "2" align = "center">
+POETICAL REFLECTIONS</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td width = "50%">
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Amiel</i>, ?Finch, Lord Chancellor</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Bathsheba</i>, ?Queen Catherine</p>
+</td>
+<td>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Nimrod</i>, Cromwell</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Tory Roger</i>, L'Estrange</p>
+</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<table class = "editor">
+<tr>
+<td colspan = "2" align = "center">
+AZARIA AND HUSHAI</td>
+</tr>
+<tr>
+<td width = "50%">
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Abidon</i>, unidentified</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Amalack</i>, ?Henry Hyde, son of Clarendon</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Amazia</i>, Charles II</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Aminadab, Ashur</i>, unidentified; <i>see</i> Ashur
+<i>above</i>.</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Athalia</i>, Mary Queen of Scots</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Azaria</i>, Monmouth</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Azyad</i>, Sir Edmundbury Godfrey</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Bibbai</i>, L'Estrange</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Canaanites, Chemarim</i>, Papists</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Doeg</i>, Danby</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Edomites</i>, Irish</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Elam</i>, Lawrence Hyde, Earl of Rochester</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Eliab</i>, Lord Russell</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Eliakim</i>, Duke of York</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Elishama</i>, ?Macclesfield</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Elizur, Enan</i>, unidentified</p>
+&nbsp;<i>Essens</i>, nonconformists
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Gamaliel</i>, unidentified</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Gedaliah</i>, Edward Coleman</p>
+</td>
+<td>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Gibbar</i>, ?Lord Clifford</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Harim</i>, ?Lord Wharton</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Helon</i>, Bedford</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Hushai</i>, Shaftesbury</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Jehosaphat</i>, Henry VII</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Jeptha</i>, see Settle, p. 21</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Jerusha</i>, Anne, Countess of Buccleuch</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Joash</i>, Charles I</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Jocoliah</i>, Lucy Walters</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Jotham</i>, ?Halifax</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Libni</i>, Oates</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Muppim</i>, ?Lauderdale</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Nashai</i>, Essex</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Pagiel</i>, unidentified</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Pharisee</i>, high churchman</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Rehoboam</i>, unidentified</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+*<i>Shimei</i>, Dryden</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Zabed</i>, Cromwell</p>
+<p class = "cell">
+&nbsp;<i>Zattue</i>, unidentified</p>
+</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<span class = "facpage editor">ix</span>
+<h4 class = "editor"><a name = "editor_refs">REFERENCES</a></h4>
+
+
+<p class = "editor">
+Biblical parallels and parallels with <i>Absalom and Achitophel</i> are
+omitted. The <i>Dedications</i> of the poems can be compared with
+Dryden's in <i>Absalom and Achitophel</i>.</p>
+
+
+<h4 class = "editor">ABSALOM SENIOR</h4>
+
+<p class = "editor">
+PAGE</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+3: <i>Barak</i>. The only borrowing in the poem from a popular
+seventeenth century jest book, <i>Wits Recreations</i> (1640),
+"Epigrams," no. 46, "On Sir Fr. Drake": "The sun itself cannot
+forget/His fellow traveller."</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+11: a <i>Jewish</i> Renegade. Cardinal Philip Thomas Howard (B).</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+13: a Breaden God. Either a reference to transubstantiation (see also II
+Kings 2-3 and II Chron.&nbsp;34) or an allusion to the Meal Tub Plot
+(1679).</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+16: a Cake of <i>Shew-bread</i>. In addition to the Biblical allusion,
+perhaps a reference to the poisoning of the Holy Roman Emperor Henry VII
+by the communion wafer.</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+17: in Possession. As this legal term is opposed to "reversion"
+emendation is unnecessary.</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+19: to bear. There was a belief that Jeffreys was connected with the
+Duchess of Portsmouth (B). The "Golden Prize" was perhaps protestantism,
+to be suppressed under a secret provision of the Treaty of Dover
+(1670).</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+19: Court-Drugster. Sir George Wakeman.</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+25: beautifyed. <i>OED</i> notices this catachrestic form of
+"beatified"</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+32: All-be-devill'd Paper. Presumably that accusing Shaftsbury of high
+treason.</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+34: A Cell. Eton.</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+37: Midnight Bawd. Mrs. Cellier.</p>
+
+
+<h4 class = "editor">POETICAL REFLECTIONS</h4>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+4: Ignoramus. <ins class = "mycorr" title =
+"text reads ‘the’">The</ins> jury's verdict at Shaftesbury's trial.</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+5: the Joyner. Stephen Colledge.</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+9: motly Sight, read "Spight"?</p>
+
+
+<h4 class = "editor">AZARIA AND HUSHAI</h4>
+
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+10: Power on <i>Amazia</i>. Read "of <i>Amazia</i>"?</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+19: allay'd. Read "ally'd"?</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+28: to board. Read "hoard"?</p>
+
+<p class = "hanging editor">
+38: swifty back. So in all copies seen.</p>
+
+<hr class = "mid">
+
+<h4 class = "editor">Footnotes</h4>
+
+<div class = "footnote editor"><a name = "note1" href = "#tag1">1</a>.
+Cf. E. D. Leyburn, <i>Satiric Allegory, Mirror of Man</i> (New Haven,
+1956).</div>
+
+<div class = "footnote editor"><a name = "note2" href = "#tag2">2</a>.
+e.g., <i>Absalom's Conspiracy</i>, a tract tracing how the Bible story
+came to be used for allegorical purposes. See <i>The Harleian
+Miscellany</i> (1811), VIII, 478-479; and R.&nbsp;F. Jones, "The
+Originality of 'Absalom and Achitophel,'" <i>Modern Language Notes</i>,
+XLVI (April, 1931) 211-218.</div>
+
+<div class = "footnote editor"><a name = "note3" href = "#tag3">3</a>.
+Hobbes, <i>English Works</i> (1845), ed. by Molesworth, VII,
+59-68.</div>
+
+<div class = "footnote editor"><a name = "note4" href = "#tag4">4</a>.
+H. C. Foxcroft, <i>A Character of the Trimmer</i> (Cambridge, England,
+1946), p. 70. This book is an abridged version of the same author's
+<i>Life and Works of Halifax</i> (1897).</div>
+
+<div class = "footnote editor"><a name = "note5" href = "#tag5">5</a>.
+Cf. the phrase "Twofold might" in <i>Absalom and Achitophel</i>, I,
+175.</div>
+
+<div class = "footnote editor"><a name = "note6" href = "#tag6">6</a>.
+<i>Review of English Studies</i>, I (1925) 82-83.</div>
+
+<div class = "footnote editor"><a name = "note7" href = "#tag7">7</a>.
+In his <i>Notes upon Mr. Dryden's Poems in Four Letters</i> (1687)
+Clifford, in 16 pages, accuses Dryden of plagiarism, especially in
+<i>Almanzor</i>.</div>
+
+<div class = "footnote editor"><a name = "note8" href = "#tag8">8</a>.
+"The Attacks on John Dryden," <i>Essays and Studies by Members of the
+English Association</i>, XXI, 41-74.</div>
+
+<div class = "footnote editor"><a name = "note9" href = "#tag9">9</a>.
+Joseph Spence, <i>Anecdotes ... of Books and Men</i> (1858), p.
+51.</div>
+<span class = "facpage">vi</span>
+
+<div class = "footnote editor"><a name = "note10" href =
+"#tag10">10</a>.
+<i>Modern Philology</i>, XXV (1928) 409-416.</div>
+
+<div class = "footnote editor"><a name = "note11" href =
+"#tag11">11</a>.
+e.g., over <i>The Empress of Morocco</i>; see Scott's <i>Dryden</i>, XV,
+397-413.</div>
+
+<div class = "mynote"><a name = "note_a" href = "#tag_a">Transcriber’s
+Footnote:</a><br>
+<span class = "editor">"the volume of the California Dryden relevant to
+<i>Absalom</i> is still awaited"</span><br>
+This Introduction was written in 1959. Volume II of the California
+Edition (<i>The Works of John Dryden</i>) was published in 1972.</div>
+
+<hr>
+
+<table class = "outline">
+<tr>
+<td class = "lines">
+<span class = "facpage">11</span>
+<h2 class = "nospace"><a name = "senior">Absalom Senior:</a></h2>
+
+<h5>OR,</h5>
+
+<h2 class = "nospace extended">ACHITOPHEL</h2>
+
+<h3 class = "extended">TRANSPROS&rsquo;D.</h3>
+
+<h5>A</h5>
+
+<h1 class = "super nospace"><span class = "expanded">POE</span>M.</h1>
+
+<hr class = "full">
+
+<h5 class = "ital">Si Populus vult decipi, <em>&amp;c.</em></h5>
+
+<hr class = "full">
+
+<p align = "center">
+<img src = "images/seniortitle.png"
+width = "238" height = "326"
+alt = "Publisher’s Device: IL VOSTRO MALIGNARE NON GIOVA NVLLA"
+title = "IL VOSTRO MALIGNARE NON GIOVA NVLLA">
+</p>
+
+<hr class = "full">
+
+<h5 class = "ital">LONDON:</h5>
+
+<h6>Printed for <i>S. E.</i> and Sold by <i>Langley Curtis</i>,
+at the Sign of<br>
+Sir <i>Edmondbury Godfrey</i>, near <i>Fleetbridge</i>. 1682.</h6>
+
+</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+
+
+<span class = "facpage">13</span>
+<span class = "folionum">A2</span>
+<h2 class = "section"><a name = "senior_intro">To the TORIES.</a></h2>
+
+<p class = "italic">
+<img src = "images/capG.png" width = "123" height = "117" alt = "G"
+align = "left"><em><span class = "secondletter">e</span>ntlemen</em>,
+for so you all write your selves; and indeed you are your own Heralds,
+and Blazon all your Coats with <em>Honour</em> and <em>Loyalty</em> for
+your <em>Supporters</em>; nay, and you are so unconscionable too in that
+point, that you will allow neither of them in any other
+<em>Scutcheons</em> but your own. But who has ’em, or has ’em not,
+is not my present business; onely as you profess your selves Gentlemen,
+to conjure you to give an Adversary fair play; and that if any person
+whatsoever shall pretend to be aggrieved by this <span class =
+"extended">POEM</span>, or any part of it, that he would bear it
+patiently; since the Licentiousness of the first <em>Absolom</em> and
+<em>Achitophel</em> has been the sole occasion of the Liberty of This, I
+having only taken the Measure of My Weapon, from the Length of his;
+which by the Rules of Honour ought not to offend you; especially, since
+the boldness of that Ingenious Piece, was wholly taken from the
+Encouragement you gave the Author; and ’tis from that Boldness only
+that this <span class = "extended">POEM</span> takes its Birth: for had
+not his daring Pen brought that Piece into the World, I had been so far
+from troubling my self in any Subject on this kind, that I may justly
+say in one sence, the Writer of that <em>Absolom</em>, is the Author of
+this. This favour, as in Justice due, obtain’d from you, I shall not
+trouble you with a long Preface, like a tedious Compliment at the Door,
+but desire you to look in for your Entertainment. Onely I cannot forbear
+telling you, that one thing I am a little concern’d for you,
+<em>Tories</em>, that your <em>Absoloms</em> and <em>Achitophels</em>,
+and the rest of your Grinning Satyres against the <em>Whiggs</em>, have
+this one unpardonable Fault, That the Lash is more against a
+<em>David</em>, than an <em>Achitophel</em>; whilst the running down of
+the <span class = "extended">PLOT</span> at so extravagant a rate,
+savours of very little less (pardon the Expression) than ridiculing of
+Majesty it self, and turning all those several Royal Speeches to the
+Parliament on that Subject, onely into those double-tongu’d Oracles
+that sounded one thing, and meant another. Besides, after this
+unmannerly Boldness, of not onely branding the publick Justice of the
+Nation, but affronting even the Throne it self, to
+<span class = "facpage">14</span>
+push the humour a little farther, you run into ten times a greater Vice,
+(and in the same strain too) than what you so severely inveigh against:
+and whilst a <span class = "extended">POPISH PLOT</span> through want of
+sufficient Circumstances, and credible Witnesses, miscarries with you, a
+<span class = "extended">PROTESTANT PLOT</span> without either Witness
+or Circumstance at all, goes currant. Nay you are so far now from your
+former niceties and scruples, and disparing about raising of Armies, and
+not one Commission found, that you can swallow the raising of a whole
+Protestant <span class = "extended">ARMY</span>, without either
+Commission, or Commission-Officer; Nay, the very When, Where, and How,
+are no part of your Consideration. ’Tis true, the great Cry amongst
+you, is, The Nations Eyes are open’d; but I am afraid, in most of you,
+’tis onely to look where you like best: and to help your lewd
+Eye-sight, you have got a damnable trick of turning the Perspective upon
+occasion, and magnifying or diminishing at pleasure. But alas, all
+talking to you is but impertinent, and fending and proving signifie just
+nothing; for after all Arguments, both Parties are so irreconcileable,
+that as the Author of <em>Absolom</em> wisely observed, they’ll be
+Fools or Knaves to each other to the end of the Chapter. And therefore I
+am so reasonable in this point, that should be very glad to divide ’em
+between ’em, and give the Fool to the <em>Tory</em>, and the Knave to
+the <em>Whigg</em>. For the <em>Tories</em> that will believe no <span
+class = "extended">POPISH PLOT</span>, may as justly come under that
+denomination, as They, that <em>David</em> tells us, <em>said in their
+Hearts there was no God</em>. And then let the <em>Whiggs</em> that do
+believe a <em>Popish Plot</em> be the Knaves, for daring to endeavour to
+hinder the Effects of a <em>Popish Plot</em>, when the <em>Tories</em>
+are resolved to the contrary. But to draw near a conclusion, I have one
+favour more to beg of you, that you’ll give me the freedom of clapping
+but about a score of years extraordinary on the back of my
+<em>Absolom</em>. Neither is it altogether so unpardonable a Poetical
+License, since we find as great slips from the Author of your own
+<em>Absolom</em>, where we see him bring in a <em>Zimri</em> into the
+Court of <em>David</em>, who in the Scripture-story dyed by the Hand of
+<em>Phineas</em> in the days of <em>Moses</em>. Nay, in the other
+extream, we find him in another place talking of the Martyrdome of
+<em>Stephen</em>, so many Ages after. And if so famous an Author can
+forget his own Rules of Unity, Time, and Place, I hope you’ll give a
+Minor Poet some grains of Allowance, and he shall ever acknowledge
+himself</p>
+
+<p class = "rightpad" align = "right">Your Humble Servant.</p>
+
+<hr>
+<span class = "facpage">15</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[1]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">B</span>
+
+<div class = "mynote">
+Transcriber’s Note:<br>
+The original text includes an <a href = "#senior_errata">Errata
+list</a>, printed in a single block of small type and only partially
+legible. In at least one case, the requested change appears to be what
+the text already says. For these reasons, changes listed have
+<i>not</i> been made, but are noted with <ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"see author’s Errata">popups</ins>.</div>
+
+
+<h2 class = "section"><a name = "senior_text"><ins class = "mycorr"
+title = "catchword on previous page reads ‘ABSO-’">Absalom
+Senior:</ins></a></h2>
+
+<h5>OR,</h5>
+
+<h3 class = "extended">ACHITOPHEL</h3>
+
+<h4 class = "extended">TRANSPROS&rsquo;D.</h4>
+
+<p class = "verse inline">
+<span class = "firstletter four">I</span><span class =
+"secondletter">n</span>
+Gloomy Times, when Priestcraft bore the sway,<br>
+And made Heav’ns Gate a Lock to their own Key:<br>
+When ignorant Devotes did blindly bow,<br>
+And groaping to be sav’d they knew not now:<br>
+Whilst this <i>Egyptian</i> darkness did orewhelm,<br>
+The Priest sate Pilot even at Empires Helm.<br>
+Then Royal Necks were yok’d, and Monarchs still<br>
+<ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘Held’">Hold</ins>
+but their Crowns at his Almighty Will.<br>
+And to defend this high Prerogative,<br>
+Falsely from Heaven he did that powr derive:<br>
+By a Commission forg’d i’th’ hand of God,<br>
+Turn’d <i>Aarons</i> blooming wand, to <i>Moses</i> snaky Rod.<br>
+Whilst Princes little Scepters overpowr’d,<br>
+Made but that prey his wider Gorge devour’d.<br>
+Now to find Wealth might his vast pomp supply,<br>
+(For costly Roofs befit a Lord so high)<br>
+No Arts were spar’d his Luster to support,<br>
+But all Mines searcht t’enrich his shining Court.<br>
+Then Heav’n was bought, Religion but a Trade;<br>
+And Temples Murder’s Sanctuary made.<br>
+By <i>Phineas</i> Spear no bleeding <i>Cozbies</i> groan’d,<br>
+If <i>Cozbies</i> Gold for <i>Cozbies</i> Crimes aton’d.<br>
+With these wise Arts, (for Humane Policy<br>
+As well as Heav’nly Truth, mounts Priests so high)<br>
+’Twixt gentle Penance, lazy Penitence,<br>
+A Faith that gratifies both Soul and Sense;<br>
+With easie steps to everlasting Bliss,<br>
+He paves the rugged way to Paradice.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">16</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[2]</span>
+Thus almost all the Proselyte-World he drives,<br>
+Whilst th<ins class = "mycorr" title = "missing">’</ins>universal
+Drones buz to his Hives.<br>
+Implicite Faith Religion thus convey’d<br>
+Through little pipes to his great Channel laid,<br>
+Till Piety through such dark Conduits led,<br>
+Was poyson’d by the Spring on which it fed.<br>
+Here blind Obedience to a blinder Guide,<br>
+Nurst that Blind Zeal that rais’d the Priestly pride;<br>
+Whilst to make Kings the Sovereign Prelate own,<br>
+Their Reason he enslav’d, and then their Throne.<br>
+The Mitre thus above the Diadem soar’d,<br>
+Gods humble servant He, but Mans proud Lord.<br>
+It was in such Church-light blind-zeal was bred,<br>
+By Faiths infatuating Meteor led;<br>
+Blind Zeal, that can even Contradictions joyn;<br>
+A Saint in Faith, in Life a Libertine;<br>
+Makes Greatness though in Luxury worn down,<br>
+Bigotted even to th’ Hazard of a Crown;<br>
+Ty’d to the Girdle of a Priest so fast,<br>
+And yet Religious only to the wast.<br>
+But Constancy atoning Constancy,<br>
+Where that once raigns, Devotion may lye by.<br>
+T’espouse the Churches Cause lyes in Heav’ns road,<br>
+More than obeying of the Churches God.<br>
+And he dares fight, for Faith is more renown’d<br>
+A Zealot Militant, than Martyr crown’d.<br>
+Here the Arch-Priest to that Ambition blown,<br>
+Pull’d down Gods Altars, to erect his own:<br>
+For not content to publish Heav’ns command,<br>
+The Sacred Law penn’d by th’Almighty Hand,<br>
+And <i>Moses</i>-like ’twixt God and <i>Israel</i> go,<br>
+Thought <i>Sinai</i>’s Mount a Pinacle too low.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+So charming sweet were Incense fragrant Fumes,<br>
+So pleas’d his Nostrils, till th’Aspirer comes<br>
+From offering, to receiving Hecatombs;<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+And ceasing to adore, to be ador’d.<br>
+So fell Faiths guide: so loftily he towr’d,<br>
+Till like th’Ambitious <i>Lucifer</i> accurst,<br>
+Swell’d to a God, into a Fiend he burst.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+But as great <i>Lucifer</i> by falling gain’d<br>
+Dominion, and ever in Damnation reign’d;</p>
+<span class = "facpage">17</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[3]</span>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+And though from Lights blest Orb for ever driven,<br>
+Yet Prince o’th’Air, h’had that vast Scepter giv’n,<br>
+T’have Subjects far more numerous than Heav’n.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+And thus enthron’d, with an infernal spight,<br>
+The genuine Malice of the Realms of night,<br>
+The Paradise he lost blasphemes, abhors,<br>
+And against Heav’n proclaims Eternal Wars;<br>
+No Arts untry’d, no hostile steps untrod,<br>
+Both against Truths Adorers, and Truths God.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+So Faiths faln Guide, now <i>Baals</i> great Champion raign’d;<br>
+Wide was his Sway, and Mighty his Command:<br>
+Whilst with implacable revenge he burn’d,<br>
+And all his Rage against Gods <i>Israel</i> turn’d.<br>
+Here his invenom’d Souls black gall he flings,<br>
+Spots all his Snakes, and points his Scorpions stings:<br>
+Omits no Force, or Treacherous Designe,<br>
+Blest <i>Israel</i> to assault, or undermine.<br>
+But the first Sword did his keen Malice draw,<br>
+Was aim’d against the God-like <i>Deborah.<br>
+Deborah</i>, the matchless pride of <i>Judah</i>’s Crown,<br>
+Whose Female hand <i>Baal’s</i> impious Groves cut down,<br>
+His banisht Wizards from her <i>Israel</i> thrust,<br>
+And pounded all their Idols into dust.<br>
+Her Life with indefatigable pain,<br>
+By Daggers long, and poysons fought in vain:<br>
+At length they angry <i>Jabins</i> Rage enflam’d,<br>
+<i>Hazors</i> proud King, for Iron Chariots fam’d;<br>
+A Warriour powerful, whose most dreadful Hoast<br>
+Proclaim’d Invincible, (were humane Boast<br>
+Infallible) by haughty <i>Sisera</i> led,<br>
+’Gainst <i>Deborah</i> their bloody Banners spread.<br>
+Here <i>Deborah</i> her <i>Barak</i> calls to War;<br>
+<i>Barak</i>, the Suns fam’d fellow-traveller,<br>
+Who wandring o’re the Earths surrounded Frame,<br>
+Had travelled far as his great Mistress Fame.<br>
+Here <i>Barak</i> did with <i>Deborah’s</i> vengeance fly,<br>
+And to that swift prodigious Victory,<br>
+So much by Humane Praises undefin’d,<br>
+That Fame wants Breath, and Wonder lags behind.<br>
+To Heav’ns high Arch her sounding Glories rung,<br>
+Whilst thus great <i>Deborah</i> and <i>Barak</i> sung.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse inline italic">
+<span class = "facpage">18</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[4]</span>
+<span class = "firstletter two">H</span><span class =
+"secondletter">e</span>ar, oh ye Princes, oh ye Kings give Ear,<br>
+And <em>Israels</em> great Avengers honour hear.<br>
+When God of Hosts, thou <em>Israels</em> Spear and Shield,<br>
+Wentst out of <em>Seir</em>, and marched’st from <em>Edoms</em>
+field,<br>
+Earth trembled, the Heaven’s drop’d, the Clouds all pour’d;<br>
+The Mountains melted from before the Lord;<br>
+Even thy own <em>Sinai</em> melted into streams,<br>
+At <em>Israels</em> dazling Gods refulgent Beams.<br>
+In <em>Shamgar</em> and in <em>Jael’s</em> former days,<br>
+The wandring Traveller walked through by-ways.<br>
+They chose new Gods. No Spear nor Sword was found,<br>
+To have Idolatry depos’d, Truth Crown’d,<br>
+Till I alone, against <em>Jehovahs</em> Foes;<br>
+I <em>Deborah</em>, I <em>Israels</em> Mother rose.<br>
+Wake <em>Deborah</em>, wake, raise thy exalted Head;<br>
+Rise <em>Barak</em>, and Captivity Captive lead.<br>
+For to blest <em>Deborah</em>, belov’d of Heav’n,<br>
+Over the Mighty is Dominion given.<br>
+Great <em>Barak</em> leads, and <em>Israels</em> Courage warms;<br>
+<em>Ephraim</em> and <em>Benjamin</em> march down in Arms:<br>
+<em>Zebulon</em> and <em>Nepthali</em> my Thunder bore,<br>
+<em>Dan</em> from her <ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘Ships’">Ship</ins>,
+and <em>Asher</em> on the Shore.<br>
+Behold <em>Megiddoes</em> waves, and from afar,<br>
+See the fierce <em>Jabins</em> threatning storm of War.<br>
+But Heav’n ’gainst <em>Sisera</em> fought, and the kind Stars<br>
+<ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘Bank’d’?">Kindl’d</ins>
+their embattel’d Fires for <em>Deborah’s</em> Wars,<br>
+Shot down their Vengeance that miraculous day,<br>
+When <em>Kishons</em> Torrants swept their Hosts away.<br>
+But curse ye <em>Meroz</em>, curse ’em from on high.<br>
+Did the denouncing voice of Angels cry;<br>
+Accurst be they that went not out t’oppose<br>
+<ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘The Mighty’ ?">The Mighty</ins>
+<em>Deborah’s</em>, God’s, and
+<em>Israel’s</em> Foes.<br>
+Victorious <em>Judah!</em> Oh my Soul, th’hast trod,<br>
+Trod down their strengths. So fall the Foes of God.<br>
+But they who in his Sacred Laws delight,<br>
+Be as the Sun when he sets out in might.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Thus sung, <ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘thus’">they</ins>
+conquer’d <i>Deborah</i>; thus fell<br>
+Hers, and Heav’ns Foes. But no Defeat tames Hell.<br>
+By Conquest overthrown, but not dismay’d,<br>
+’Gainst <i>Israel</i> still their private Engines play’d.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">19</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[5]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">C</span>
+And their dire Machinations to fulfil,<br>
+Their stings torn out, they kept their poyson still.<br>
+And now too weak in open force to joyn,<br>
+In close Cabals they hatcht a damn’d Design,<br>
+To light that Mine as should the world amaze,<br>
+And set the ruin’d <i>Israel</i> in a blaze.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+When <i>Judahs</i> Monarch with his Princes round,<br>
+Amidst his glorious Sanedrim sate Crown’d,<br>
+Beneath his Throne a Cavern low, and dark<br>
+As their black Souls, for the great Work they mark.<br>
+In this lone Cell their Midnight-Hands bestow’d<br>
+A <i>Stygian</i> Compound, a combustive load<br>
+Of Mixture wondrous, Execution dire,<br>
+Ready the Touch of their Infernal Fire.<br>
+Have you not seen in yon Êthereal Road,<br>
+How at the Rage of th’angry driving God,<br>
+Beneath the pressure of his furious wheels<br>
+The Heav’ns all rattle, and the Globe all reels?<br>
+So does this Thunder’s Ape its lightning play,<br>
+Keen as Heav’ns Fires, and scarce less swift than they.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+A short-liv’d glaring Murderer it flies,<br>
+In Times least pulse, a Moments wing’d surprize;<br>
+’Tis born, looks big, talks lowd, breaths death, and dies.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+This Mixture was th’Invention of a Priest;<br>
+The Sulphurous Ingredients all the best<br>
+Of Hells own growth: for to dire Compounds still<br>
+Hell finds the Minerals, and the Priest the Skill.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+From this curst Mine they had that blow decreed,<br>
+A Moments dismal blast, as should exceed<br>
+All the Storms, Battles, Murders, Massacres,<br>
+And all the strokes of Daggers, Swords, or Spears,<br>
+Since first <i>Cain’s</i> hand at <i>Abels</i> Head was lift:<br>
+A Blow more swift than Pestilence, more swift<br>
+Than ever a destroying Angel rod,<br>
+To pour the Vial of an angry God.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+The Train was laid, the very Signal giv’n;<br>
+But here th’all-seeing, <i>Israels</i> Guardian, Heav’n<br>
+Could hold no longer; and to stop their way,<br>
+With a kind Beam from th’EmpyrÊan Day,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">20</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[6]</span>
+Disclos’d their hammering Thunder at the Forge;<br>
+And made their Cyclops Cave their Bolts disgorge.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Discover’d thus, thus lost, betray’d, undone,<br>
+Yet still untir’d, the Restless Cause goes on;<br>
+And to retrieve a yet auspicious day,<br>
+A glowing spark even in their Ashes lay,<br>
+Which thus burst out in flames. In <i>Geshur</i> Land,<br>
+The utmost Bound of <i>Israels</i> Command,<br>
+Where <i>Judah’s</i> planted Faith but slowly grew,<br>
+A Brutal Race that <i>Israels</i> God n’er knew:<br>
+A Nation by the Conquerors Mercy grac’d,<br>
+Their Gods preserv’d, and Temples undefac’d;<br>
+Yet not content with all the Sweets of Peace,<br>
+Free their Estates, and free their Consciences;<br>
+’Gainst <i>Israel</i> those confederate Swords they drew,<br>
+Which with that vast Assassination flew<br>
+Two hundred thousand Butcher’d Victims shar’d<br>
+One common doom: No Sex nor Age was spar’d:<br>
+Not kneeling Beauties Tears, not Virgins Cries,<br>
+Nor Infants Smiles: No prey so small but dies.<br>
+Alas, the hard-mouth’d Blood-hound, Zeal, bites through;<br>
+Religion hunts, and hungry Jaws pursue.<br>
+To what strange Rage is Superstition driven,<br>
+That Man can outdo Hell to fight for Heav’n!<br>
+So Rebel <i>Geshur</i> fought: so drown’d in gore,<br>
+Even Mother Earth blusht at the Sons she bore;<br>
+And still asham’d of her old staining Brand,<br>
+Her Head shrinks down and Quagmires half their Land.<br>
+Yet not this blow <i>Baals</i> Empire could enlarge<br>
+For <i>Israel</i> still was Heav’ns peculiar charge:<br>
+Unshaken still in all this Scene of Blood,<br>
+Truths Temple firm on Golden Columns stood.<br>
+Whilst <i>Sauls</i> Revenging Arm proud <i>Geshur</i> scourg’d,<br>
+From their rank soyl their <i>Hydra’s</i> poyson purg’d.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Yet does not here their vanquish’d spleen give o’re,<br>
+But as untir’d, and restless as before,<br>
+Still through whole waiting Ages they outdo<br>
+At once the Chimists pains and patience too.<br>
+Who though he sees his bursting Limbecks crack,<br>
+And at one blast, one fatal Minutes wrack,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">21</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[7]</span>
+The forward Hopes of sweating years expire;<br>
+With sad, yet painful hand new lights his Fire:<br>
+Pale, lean, and wan, does Health, Wealth, all consume;<br>
+Yet for the great Elixir still to come,<br>
+Toyls and hopes on. No less their Plottings cease;<br>
+So hope, so toyl, the foes of <i>Israels</i> peace.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+When lo, a long expected day appears,<br>
+Sought for above a hundred rowling years;<br>
+A day i’th’ register of Doom set down,<br>
+Presents ’em with an Heir of <i>Israels</i> Crown.<br>
+Here their vast hopes of the rich <i>Israels</i> spoils,<br>
+Requites the pains of their long Ages Toyls.<br>
+<i>Baals</i> Banners now i’th’ face of day shall march,<br>
+With Heav’ns bright Roof for his Triumphal Arch.<br>
+His lurking Missioners shall now no more<br>
+From Forreign Schools in borrow’d shapes come o’re;<br>
+Convert by Moon-light, and their Mystick Rites<br>
+Preach to <ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘weak’">poor</ins>
+Female half-Soul’d Proselytes.<br>
+An all-commanding Dragon now shall soar,<br>
+Where the poor Serpents onely crawl’d before.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+<i>Baals</i> Restoration, that most blest Design,<br>
+Now the great work of Majesty, shall shine,<br>
+Made by his consecrating hand Divine.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+He shall new plant their Groves with each blest Tree,<br>
+A graft of an Imperial Nursery.<br>
+In the kind Air of this new <i>Eden</i> blest,<br>
+Percht on each bough, and Palaces their nest;<br>
+No more by frighting Laws forc’d t’obscure flight,<br>
+And gloomy walks, like obscene Birds of Night;<br>
+Their warbling Notes like <i>Philomel</i> shall sing,<br>
+And like the Bird of <i>Paradise</i> their wing.<br>
+Thus <i>Israels</i> Heir their ravisht Souls all fired;<br>
+For all things to their ardent hopes conspired.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+His very youth a Bigot Mother bred,<br>
+And tainted even the Milk on which he fed.<br>
+Him onely of her Sons design’d for <i>Baals</i><br>
+Great Champion ’gainst <i>Jerusalems</i> proud Walls;<br>
+Him dipt in <i>Stygian</i> Lake, by timely craft,<br>
+Invulnerable made against Truths pointed shaft.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">22</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[8]</span>
+But to confirm his early poyson’d Faith,<br>
+’Twas in the cursed Forreign Tents of <i>Gath</i>,<br>
+’Twas there that he was lost. There <i>Absolon</i><br>
+By <i>Davids</i> fatal Banishment undone,<br>
+Saw their false Gods till in their Fires he burn’d,<br>
+Truths Manna, for <i>Egyptian</i> Fleshpots, scorn’d.<br>
+Not <i>David</i> so; for he Faiths Champion Lord,<br>
+Their Altars loath’d, and prophane Rites abhorr’d:<br>
+Whilst his firm Soul on wings of <i>Cherubs</i> rod,<br>
+And tun’d his Lyre to nought but <i>Abrahams</i> God.<br>
+Thus the gay <i>Israel</i> her long Tears quite dry’d,<br>
+Her restor’d <i>David</i> met in all her Pride,<br>
+Three Brothers saw by Miracle brought back,<br>
+Like <i>Noahs</i> Sons sav’d from the worlds great wrack;<br>
+An unbelieving <i>Ham</i> graced on each hand,<br>
+’Twixt God-like <i>Shem</i>, and pious <i>Japhet</i> stand.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">’Tis true, when <i>David</i>, all his storms blown
+o’re,<br>
+Wafted by Prodigies to <i>Jordans</i> shore,<br>
+(So swift a Revolution, yet so calm)<br>
+Had cur’d an Ages wounds with one days Balm;<br>
+Here the returning <i>Absolon</i> his vows<br>
+With <i>Israel</i> joyns, and at their Altars bows.<br>
+Perhaps surpriz’d at such strange blessings showr’d,<br>
+Such wonders shewn both t’<i>Israels</i> Faith, and Lord,<br>
+His Restoration-Miracle he thought<br>
+Could by no less than <i>Israels</i> God be wrought.<br>
+Whilst the enlightened <i>Absolon</i> thus kneels,<br>
+Thus dancing to the sound of <i>Aarons</i> Bells,<br>
+What dazling Rays did <i>Israels</i> Heir adorn,<br>
+So bright his Sun in his unclouded Morn!<br>
+’Twas then his leading hand in Battle drew<br>
+That Sword that <i>Davids</i> fam’d ten thousand slew:<br>
+<i>Davids</i> the Cause, but <i>Absolons</i> the Arm.<br>
+Then he could win all Hearts, all Tongues could charm:<br>
+Whilst with his praise the ecchoing plains all rung,<br>
+A thousand Timbrels play’d, a thousand Virgins sung;<br>
+And in the zeal of every jocund Soul,<br>
+<i>Absolons</i> Health with <i>Davids</i> crown’d one Bowl.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Had he fixt here, yes, Fate, had he fixt here,<br>
+To Man so Sacred, and to Heav’n so dear,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">23</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[9]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">D</span>
+What could he want that Hands, Hearts, Lives could pay,<br>
+Or Tributary Worlds beneath his feet could lay?<br>
+What Knees, what Necks to mount him to <ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘a’">his</ins> Throne;<br>
+What Gems, what Stars to sparkle in <ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘a’">his</ins> Crown?<br>
+So pleas’d, so charm’d, had <i>Israels</i> Genius smil’d;<br>
+But oh <ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘ye’">the</ins>
+Pow’rs, by treacherous snakes beguil’d,<br>
+Into a more than <i>Adams</i> Curse he run,<br>
+Tasting that Fruit has <i>Israels</i> World undone.<br>
+Nay, wretched even below his falling state,<br>
+Wants <i>Adams</i> Eyes to see his <i>Adams</i> Fate.<br>
+In vain was <i>Davids</i> Harp and <i>Israels</i> Quire;<br>
+For his Conversion all in vain conspire:<br>
+For though their influence a while retires,<br>
+His own false Planets were th’Ascendant Fires.<br>
+Heav’n had no lasting Miracle design’d;<br>
+It did a while his fatal Torrent bind.<br>
+As <i>Joshua’s</i> Wand did <i>Jordan’s</i> streams divide,<br>
+And rang’d the watry Mountains on each side.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+But when the marching <i>Israel</i> once got o’re,<br>
+Down crack the Chrystal <ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘Walls; the Billows pour’">Walls
+the Billows pow’r</ins>,<br>
+And in their old impetuous Channel roar.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+At this last stroke thus totally o’rethrown,<br>
+Apostasie now seal’d him all her own.<br>
+Here ope’d that gaping Breach, that fatal door,<br>
+Which now let in a thousand Ruines more.<br>
+All the bright Virtues, and each dazling Grace,<br>
+Which his rich Veins drew from a God-like Race;<br>
+The Mercy, and the Clemency Divine,<br>
+Those Sacred Beams which in mild <i>David</i> shine;<br>
+Those Royal Sparks, his Native Seeds of Light,<br>
+Were all put out, and left a Starless Night.<br>
+A long farewel to all that’s Great and Brave:<br>
+Not Cataracts more headstrong; as the Grave<br>
+Inexorable; Sullen and Untun’d<br>
+As Pride depos’d; scarce <i>Lucifer</i> dethron’d<br>
+More Unforgiving; his enchanted Soul<br>
+Had drank so deep of the bewitching Bowl,<br>
+Till he whose hand, with <i>Judahs</i> Standart, bore<br>
+Her Martial Thunder to the <i>Tyrian</i> shore,<br>
+Arm’d in her Wars, and in her Laurels crown’d;<br>
+Now all forgotten at one stagg’ring wound,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">24</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[10]</span>
+Falling from <i>Israels</i> Faith; from <i>Israels</i> Cause,<br>
+Peace, Honour, Int’rest, all at once withdraws:<br>
+Nor is he deaf t’a Kingdoms Groans alone,<br>
+But could behold ev’n <i>Davids</i> shaking Throne;<br>
+<i>David</i>, whose Bounty rais’d his glittering Pride,<br>
+The Basis of his Glories Pyramide.<br>
+But Duty, Gratitude, all ruin’d fall:<br>
+Zeal blazes, and Oblivion swallows all.<br>
+So <i>Sodom</i> did both burnt and drown’d expire;<br>
+A poyson’d Lake succeeds a Pile of Fire.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+On this Foundation <i>Baals</i> last Hope was built,<br>
+The sure Retreat for all their Sallying Guilt:<br>
+A Royal Harbour, where the rowling Pride<br>
+Of <i>Israels</i> Foes might safe at Anchor ride;<br>
+Defie all Dangers, and even Tempests scorn,<br>
+Though <i>Judahs</i> God should Thunder in the Storm.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Here <i>Israels</i> Laws, the dull Levitick Rolls,<br>
+At once a clog to Empire, and to Souls,<br>
+Are the first Martyrs to the Fire they doom,<br>
+To make great <i>Baals</i> Triumphant Legends room.<br>
+But ere their hands this glorious work can Crown,<br>
+Their long-known Foe the Sanedrin must down;<br>
+Sanedrins the Free-born <i>Israels</i> Sacred Right,<br>
+That God-like Ballance of Imperial Might;<br>
+Where Subjects are from Tyrant-Lords set free,<br>
+<i>From that wild Thing unbounded man would be</i>;<br>
+Where Pow’r and Clemency are poys’d so even,<br>
+A Constitution that resembles Heav’n.<br>
+So in th’united great <span class = "extended">THREE-ONE</span> we
+find<br>
+A Saving with a Dooming Godhead joyn’d.<br>
+(But why, oh why! if such restraining pow’r<br>
+Can bind Omnipotence, should Kings wish more?)<br>
+A Constitution, so Divinely mixt,<br>
+Not Natures bounded Elements more fixt.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Thus Earths vast Frame with firm and solid ground,<br>
+Stands in a foaming Ocean circled round;<br>
+Yet This not overflowing, That not drown’d.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+But to rebuild their Altars, and enstal<br>
+Their Moulten Gods, the Sanedrin must fall;<br>
+<span class = "facpage">25</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[11]</span>
+That Constellation of the Jewish Pow’r,<br>
+All blotted from its Orb must shine no more;<br>
+Or stampt in <i>Pharoahs</i> darling Mould, must quit<br>
+Their Native Beams, for a new-model’d Light;<br>
+Like <i>Egypts</i> Sanedrins, their influence gone,<br>
+Flash but like empty Meteors round the Throne:<br>
+That that new Lord may <i>Judahs</i> Scepter weild,<br>
+To whom th’old Brickill Taskmasters must yield;<br>
+Who, to erect new Temples for his Gods,<br>
+Shall th’enslav’d <i>Israel</i> drive with Iron Rods;<br>
+If they want Bricks for his new Walls t’aspire,<br>
+To their sad cost, he’ll find ’em Straw and Fire.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+All this t’effect, and their new Fabrick build,<br>
+Both close Cabals and Forreign Leagues are held:<br>
+To <i>Babylon</i> and <i>Egypt</i> they send o’re,<br>
+And both their Conduct and their Gold implore.<br>
+By such Abettors the sly Game was plaid;<br>
+One of their Chiefs a Jewish Renegade,<br>
+High-born in <i>Israel</i>, one <i>Michals</i> Priest,<br>
+But now in <i>Babylons</i> proud Scarlet drest.<br>
+’Tis to his Hands the Plotting Mandats come<br>
+Subscrib’d by the Apostate <i>Absolom</i>.<br>
+Nay, and to keep themselves all danger-proof,<br>
+That none might track the <i>Belial</i> by his Hoof,<br>
+Their Correspondence veil’d from prying Eyes,<br>
+In Hieroglyphick Figures they disguise.<br>
+Husht as the Night, in which their Plots combin’d,<br>
+And silent as the Graves they had design’d,<br>
+Their Ripening Mischiefs to perfection sprung.<br>
+But oh! the much-loath’d <i>David</i> lives too long.<br>
+Their Vultures cannot mount but from his Tomb;<br>
+And with too hungry ravenous Gorges come,<br>
+To be by airy Expectation fed.<br>
+No Prey, no Spoil, before they see Him Dead.<br>
+Yes, Dead; the Royal Sands too slowly pass,<br>
+And therefore they’re resolved to break the Glass:<br>
+And to ensure Times tardy dubious Call,<br>
+Decree their Daggers should his Sythe forestall.<br>
+For th’execrable Deed a Hireling Crew<br>
+Their Hell and They pick out; whom to make true,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">26</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[12]</span>
+An Oath of Force so exquisite they frame,<br>
+Sworn in the Blood of <i>Israels</i> Paschal Lamb.<br>
+If false, the Vengeance of that Sword that slew<br>
+<i>Egypts</i> First-born, their perjur’d Heads pursue.<br>
+Strong was the Oath, the Imprecation dire;<br>
+And for a Viand, lest their Guilt should tire,<br>
+With promis’d Paradice they cheer their way;<br>
+And bold’s the Souldier who has Heav’n his pay.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+But the ne’r-sleeping Providence that stands<br>
+With jealous Eyes o’re Truths up-lifted Hands;<br>
+That still in its <ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘lov’d’">Lord</ins>
+<i>Israel</i> takes delight,<br>
+Their Cloud by Day, and Guardian Fire by Night;<br>
+A Ray from out its Fiery Pillar cast,<br>
+That overlook’d their driving <i>Jehu</i>’s hast.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+All’s ruin’d and betray’d: their own false Slaves<br>
+Detect the Plot, and dig their Masters Graves:<br>
+Not Oaths nor Bribes shall bind, when great <i>Jehovah</i> saves.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+The frighted <i>Israelites</i> take the Alarm,<br>
+Resolve the Traitors Sorceries t’uncharm:<br>
+Till cursing, raving, mad, and drunk with Rage,<br>
+In <i>Amnons</i> Blood their frantick Hands engage.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Here let the Ghost of strangl’d <i>Amnon</i> come,<br>
+A Specter that will strike Amazement dumb;<br>
+<i>Amnon</i> the Proto-Martyr of the Plot,<br>
+The Murder’d <i>Amnon</i>, their Eternal Blot;<br>
+Whose too bold zeal stood like a <i>Pharos</i> Light,<br>
+<i>Israel</i> to warn, and track their Deeds of Night.<br>
+Till the sly Foe his unseen Game to play,<br>
+Put out the Beacon to secure his way.<br>
+<i>Baals</i> Cabinet-Intrigues he open spread,<br>
+The Ravisht <i>Tamar</i> for whose sake he bled.<br>
+T’unveil their Temple and expose their Gods,<br>
+Deserv’d their vengeances severest Rods:<br>
+Wrath he deserv’d, and had the Vial full,<br>
+To lay those Devils had possest his Soul.<br>
+His silenc’d Fiends from his wrung Neck they twist;<br>
+Whilst his kind Murd’rer’s but his Exorcist.<br>
+Here draw, bold Painter, (if thy Pencil dare<br>
+Unshaking write, what <i>Israel</i> quak’d to hear,)<br>
+<span class = "facpage">27</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[13]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">E</span>
+A Royal Altar pregnant with a Load<br>
+Of Humane Bones beneath a Breaden God.<br>
+Altars so rich not <i>Molocks</i> Temples show;<br>
+’Twas Heaven above, and <i>Golgotha</i> below.<br>
+Yet are not all the Mystick Rites yet done:<br>
+Their pious Fury does not stop so soon.<br>
+But to pursue the loud-tongu’d Wounds they gave,<br>
+Resolves to stab his Fame beyond the Grave,<br>
+And in Eternal Infamy to brand<br>
+With <i>Amnons</i> Murder, <i>Amnons</i> righteous Hand.<br>
+Here with a Bloodless wound, by Hellish Art,<br>
+With his own Sword they goar his Lifeless Heart.<br>
+Thus in a Ditch the butcher’d <i>Amnon</i> lay,<br>
+A Deed of Night enough to have kept back the Day.<br>
+Had not the Sun in Sacred vengeance rose,<br>
+Asham’d to see, but prouder to disclose,<br>
+Warm’d with new Fires, with all his posting speed,<br>
+Brought Heav’ns bright Lamp to shew th’Infernal Deed.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+What art thou, Church! when Faith to propagate,<br>
+And crush all Bars that stop thy growing state,<br>
+Thou break’st through Natures, Gods, and Humane Laws,<br>
+Whilst Murder’s Merit in a Churches Cause.<br>
+How much thy Ladder <i>Jacobs</i> does excel:<br>
+Whose Top’s in Heaven like His, but Foot in Hell;<br>
+Thy Causes bloody Champions to befriend,<br>
+For Fiends to Mount, as Angels to Descend.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+This was the stroke did th’alarm’d World surprize,<br>
+And even to infidelity lent Eyes:<br>
+Whilst sweating <i>Absolon</i> in <i>Israel</i> pent,<br>
+For fresher Air was to bleak <i>Hebron</i> sent.<br>
+Cold <i>Hebron</i> warm’d by his approaching sight,<br>
+Flusht with his Gold, and glow’d with new delight.<br>
+Till Sacred all-converting Interest<br>
+To Loyalty, their almost unknown Guest,<br>
+Oped a broad Gate, from whence forth-issuing come,<br>
+Decrees, Tests, Oaths, for well-sooth’d <i>Absolom</i>.<br>
+Spight of that Guilt that made even Angels fall,<br>
+An unbarr’d Heir shall Reign: In spight of all<br>
+Apostacy from Heav’n, or Natures tyes,<br>
+Though for his Throne a <i>Cain</i>-built Palace rise.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">28</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[14]</span>
+No wonder <i>Hebron</i> such Devotion bears<br>
+T’Imperial Dignity, and Royal Heirs;<br>
+For they, whom Chronicle so high renowns<br>
+For selling Kings, should know the price of Crowns.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Here, Glorious <i>Hushai</i>, let me mourn thy Fate,<br>
+Thou once great Pillar of the <i>Hebron</i> State:<br>
+Yet now to Dungeons sent, and doom’d t’a Grave.<br>
+But Chains are no new Sufferings to the Brave.<br>
+Witness thy pains in six years Bonds endur’d,<br>
+For <i>Israels</i> Faith, and <i>Davids</i> Cause immur’d.<br>
+Death too thou oft for <i>Judahs</i> Crown hast stood,<br>
+So bravely fac’d in several Fields of Blood.<br>
+But from Fames Pinnacle now headlong cast,<br>
+Life, Honour, all are ruin’d at a Blast.<br>
+For <i>Absolons</i> great <span class = "extended">LAW</span> thou durst
+explain;<br>
+Where but to pry, bold Lord, was to prophane:<br>
+A Law that did his Mystick God-head couch,<br>
+Like th’Ark of God, and no less Death to touch.<br>
+Forgot are now thy Honourable Scars,<br>
+Thy Loyal Toyls, and Wounds in <i>Judahs</i> Wars.<br>
+Had thy pil’d Trophies <i>Babel</i>-high, reacht Heav’n,<br>
+Yet by one stroke from <i>Absolons</i> Thunder given,</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Thy towring Glorie’s levell’d to the ground;<br>
+A stroke does all thy Tongues of Fame confound,<br>
+And, Traitor, now is all the Voice they sound.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+True, thou hadst Law; that even thy Foes allow;<br>
+But to thy Advocates, as damn’d as Thou,<br>
+’Twas Death to plead it. Artless <i>Absolon</i><br>
+The Bloody Banner to display so soon:<br>
+Such killing Beams from thy young Day-break shot;<br>
+What will the Noon be, if the Morn’s so hot?<br>
+Yes, dreadful Heir, the Coward <i>Hebron</i> awe.<br>
+So the young Lion tries his tender Paw.<br>
+At a poor Herd of feeble Heifers flies,<br>
+Ere the rough Bear, tusk’d Boar, or spotted Leopard dies.<br>
+Thus flusht, great Sir, thy strength in <i>Israel</i> try:<br>
+When their Cow’d Sanedrims shall prostrate lye,<br>
+And to thy feet their slavish Necks shall yield;<br>
+Then raign the Princely Savage of the Field.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse"><span class = "facpage">29</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[15]</span>
+Yes, <i>Israels</i> Sanedrin, ’twas they alone<br>
+That set too high a Value on a Throne;<br>
+Thought they had a God was Worthy to be serv’d;<br>
+A Faith maintain’d, and Liberty preserv’d.<br>
+And therefore judg’d, for Safety and Renown<br>
+Of <i>Israels</i> People, Altars, Laws and Crown,<br>
+Th’Anointing Drops on Royal Temples shed<br>
+Too precious Showrs for an Apostates Head.<br>
+Then was that great Deliberate Councel giv’n,<br>
+An Act of Justice both to Man and Heav’n,<br>
+<i>Israels</i> conspiring Foes to overthrow,<br>
+That <i>Absolon</i> should th’Hopes of Crowns forego.<br>
+Debarr’d Succession! oh that dismal sound!<br>
+A sound, at which <i>Baal</i> stagger’d, and Hell groan’d;<br>
+A sound that with such dreadful Thunder falls,<br>
+’Twas heard even to <i>Semiramis</i> trembling Walls.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+But hold! is this the Plots last Murd’ring Blow,<br>
+The dire divorce of Soul and Body? No.<br>
+The mangled Snake, yet warm, to Life they’ll bring,<br>
+And each disjoynted Limb together cling.<br>
+Then thus <i>Baals</i> wise consulting Prophets cheer’d<br>
+Their pensive Sons, and call’d the scatter’d Herd.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Are we quite ruin’d! No, mistaken Doom,<br>
+Still the great Day, yes that great Day shall come,<br>
+(Oh, rouse our fainting Sons, and droop no more.)<br>
+A Day, whose Luster, our long Clouds blown o’re,<br>
+Not all the Rage of <i>Israel</i> shall annoy,<br>
+No, nor denouncing Sanedrims destroy.<br>
+See yon North-Pole, and mark <i>Boötes Carr</i>:<br>
+Oh! we have those Influencing Aspects there,<br>
+Those Friendly pow’rs that drive in that bright <i>Wain</i>,<br>
+Shall redeem All, and our lost Ground regain.<br>
+Whilst to our Glory their kind Aid stands fast,<br>
+But one Plot more, our Greatest and our Last.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Now for a Product of that subtle kind,<br>
+As far above their former Births refin’d,<br>
+As Firmamental Fires t’a Tapers ray,<br>
+Or Prodigies to Natures common Clay.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">30</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[16]</span>
+Empires in Blood, or Cities in a Flame,<br>
+Are work for vulgar Hands, scarce worth a Name.<br>
+A Cake of <i>Shew-bread</i> from an Altar ta’ne,<br>
+Mixt but with some Levitical King-bane,<br>
+Has sent a Martyr’d Monarch to his Grave.<br>
+Nay, a poor Mendicant Church-Rake-hell slave<br>
+Has stab’d Crown’d Heads; slight Work to hands well-skill’d,<br>
+Slight as the Pebble that <i>Goliah</i> kill’d.<br>
+But to make Plots no Plots, to clear all Taints,<br>
+Traitors transform to Innocents, Fiends to Saints,<br>
+Reason to Nonsence, Truth to Perjury;<br>
+Nay, make their own attesting Records lye,<br>
+And even the gaping Wounds of Murder whole:<br>
+I<ins class = "mycorr" title = "missing">f</ins> this last Masterpiece
+requires a Soul.<br>
+Guilt to unmake, and Plots annihilate,<br>
+Is much a greater work than to create.<br>
+Nay both at once to be, and not to be,<br>
+Is such a Task would pose a Deity.<br>
+Let <i>Baal</i> do this, and be a God indeed:<br>
+Yes, this Immortal Honour ’tis decreed,<br>
+His Sanguine Robe though dipt in reeking Gore,<br>
+With purity and Innocence all o’re,<br>
+Shall dry, and spotless from the purple hue,<br>
+The Miracle of <i>Gideons</i> Fleece outdo.<br>
+Yes, they’re resolv’d, in all their foes despight,<br>
+To wash their more than <i>Ethiop</i> Treason White.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+But now for Heads to manage the Design,<br>
+Fit Engineers to labour in this Mine.<br>
+For their own hands ’twere fatal to employ:<br>
+Should <i>Baal</i> appear, it would <i>Baals</i> Cause destroy.<br>
+Alas, should onely their own Trumpets sound<br>
+Their Innocence, the jealous Ears around<br>
+All Infidels would the loath’d Charmer fly,<br>
+And through the Angels voice the Fiend descry.<br>
+No, this last game wants a new plotting Set,<br>
+And <i>Israel</i> only now can <i>Israel</i> cheat.<br>
+In this Machine their profest Foes must move,<br>
+Whilst <i>Baal</i> absconding sits in Clouds above,<br>
+From whence unseen he guides their bidden way:<br>
+For he may prompt, although he must not play.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">31</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[17]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">F</span>
+This to effect a sort of Tools they find,<br>
+Devotion-Rovers, an Amphibious Kind,<br>
+Of no Religion, yet like Walls of Steel<br>
+Strong for the Altars where their Princes kneel.<br>
+Imperial not Celestial is their Test,<br>
+The Uppermost, <ins class = "mycorr" title =
+"text reads ‘indsputably’">indisputably</ins> Best.<br>
+They always in the golden Chariot rod,<br>
+Honour their Heav’n, and Interest their God.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Of these then subtil <i>Caleb</i> none more Great,<br>
+<i>Caleb</i> who shines where his lost Father set;</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Got by that sire, who not content alone,<br>
+To shade the brightest Jewel in a Crown,<br>
+Preaching Ingratitude t’a Court and Throne;<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+But made his Politicks the baneful Root<br>
+From whence the springing Woes of <i>Israel</i> shoot,<br>
+When his Great Masters fatal <i>Gordian</i> tyed,<br>
+He lai’d the barren <i>Michal</i> by his side;<br>
+That the ador’d <i>Absolons</i> immortal Line<br>
+Might on <i>Judeas</i> Throne for ever shine.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+<i>Caleb</i>, who does that hardy Pilot make,<br>
+Steering in that Hereditary Track,<br>
+Blind to the Sea-Mark of a Fathers Wrack.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Next <i>Jonas</i> stands bull-fac’d, but chicken-soul’d,<br>
+Who once the silver Sanedrin Controul’d,<br>
+Their Gold-tip’d Tongue; Gold his great Councels Bawd:<br>
+Till by succeeding Sanedrins outlaw’d,<br>
+He was prefer’d to guard the sacred Store:<br>
+There Lordly rowling in whole Mines of Oar;<br>
+To Diceing Lords, a Cully-Favourite,<br>
+He prostitutes whole <i>Cargoes</i> in a Night.<br>
+Here to the Top of his Ambition come,<br>
+Fills all his Sayls for hopeful <i>Absolom.</i><br>
+For his Religion’s as the Season calls,<br>
+Gods in Possession, in Reversion <i>Baals.</i><br>
+He bears himself a Dove to Mortal Race,<br>
+And though not Man, he can look Heav’n i’th’ Face.<br>
+Never was Compound of more different Stuff,<br>
+A Heart in Lambskin, and a Conscience Buff.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Let not that Hideous Bulk of Honour scape,<br>
+<i>Nadab</i> that sets the gazing Crowd agape:<br>
+That old Kirk-founder, whose course Croak could sing<br>
+The Saints, the Cause, no Bishop, and no King:<br>
+<span class = "facpage">32</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[18]</span>
+When Greatness clear’d his Throat, and scowr’d his Maw,<br>
+Roard out Succession, and the Penal Law.<br>
+Not so of old: another sound went forth,<br>
+When in the Region from <i>Judea</i> North,<br>
+By the Triumphant <i>Saul</i> he was employ’d,<br>
+A huge fang Tusk to goar poor <i>Davids</i> side.<br>
+Like a Proboscis in the Tyrants Jaw,<br>
+To rend and root through Government and Law.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+His hand that Hell-penn’d League of <i>Belial</i> drew,<br>
+That Swore down Kings, Religion overthrew,<br>
+Great <i>David</i> banisht, and Gods Prophets slew.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Nor does the Courts long Sun so powerful shine,<br>
+T’exhale his Vapours, or his Dross refine;<br>
+Nor is the Metal mended by the stamp.<br>
+With his rank oyl he feeds the Royal Lamp.<br>
+To Sanedrins an everlasting Foe,<br>
+Resolv’d his Mighty Hunters overthrow.<br>
+And true to Tyranny, as th’only Jem,<br>
+That truly sparkles in a Diadem;<br>
+To <i>Absalons</i> side does his old <i>Covenant</i> bring,<br>
+With <i>State</i> raz’d out, and interlin’d with <span class =
+"extended">KING</span>.<br>
+But <i>Nadabs</i> Zeal has too severe a Doom;<br>
+Whilst serving an ungrateful <i>Absalom</i>,<br>
+His strength all spent his Greatness to create,<br>
+He’s now laid by a cast-out Drone of State.<br>
+He rowz’d that Game by which he is undone,<br>
+By fleeter Coursers now so far outrun,<br>
+That fiercer Mightier <i>Nimrod</i> in the Chace,<br>
+Till quite thrown out, and lost he quits the Race.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Of Low-born Tools we bawling <i>Shimei</i> saw,<br>
+<i>Jerusalems</i> late loud-tongu’d <span class =
+"extended">MOUTH</span> of Law.<br>
+By Blessings from Almighty Bounty given,<br>
+<i>Shimei</i> no common Favorite of Heaven.<br>
+Whom, lest Posterity should loose the Breed,<br>
+In five short Moons indulgent Heav’n rais’d Seed;<br>
+Made happy in an Early teeming Bride,<br>
+And laid a lovely Heiress by her side.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Whilst the glad Father’s so divinely blest,<br>
+That like the Stag proud of his Brow so drest,<br>
+He brandishes his lofty City-Crest.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+<span class = "facpage">33</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[19]</span>
+’Twas in <i>Jerusalem</i> was <i>Shimei</i> nurst,<br>
+<i>Jerusalem</i> by <i>Baals</i> Prophets ever curst,<br>
+The greatest Block that stops ’em in their way,<br>
+For which she once in Dust and Ashes lay.<br>
+Here to the Bar this whiffling Lurcher came,<br>
+And barkt to rowze the nobler Hunters Game.<br>
+But <i>Shimei’s</i> Lungs might well be stretcht so far;<br>
+For steering by a Court-Ascendant Star,<br>
+For daily Oracles he does address,<br>
+To the <i>Egyptian</i> Beauteous Sorceress.<br>
+For <i>Pharoah</i> when he wisely did essay<br>
+To bear the long-sought Golden Prize away,<br>
+That fair Enchantress sent, whose Magick Skill<br>
+Should keep great <i>Israels</i> sleeping Dragon still.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Thus by her powerful inspirations fed,<br>
+To bite their Heels this City-Snake was bred,<br>
+Till <i>Absalon</i> got strength to bruise their Head.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Of all the Heroes since the world began,<br>
+To <i>Shimei Joshuah</i> was the bravest Man.<br>
+To Him his Tutelar Saint he prays, and oh,<br>
+That great <i>Jerusalem</i> were like <i>Jericoh</i>!<br>
+Then bellowing lowd for <i>Joshuahs</i> Spirit calls,<br>
+Because his Rams-horn blew down City-Walls.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+In the same Roll have we grave <i>Corah</i> seen,<br>
+<i>Corah</i>, the late chief Scarlet <i>Abbethdin</i>.<br>
+<i>Corah</i>, who luckily i’th’ Bench was got,<br>
+To <ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘race’ (or ‘rate’?)">loo</ins>
+the Bloodhounds off to save the Plot.<br>
+<i>Corah</i>, who once against <i>Baals</i> Impious Cause,<br>
+Stood strong for <i>Israels</i> Faith and <i>Davids</i> Laws.<br>
+He poys’d his Scales, and shook his ponderous Sword,<br>
+Lowd as his Fathers <i>Basan</i>-Bulls he roar’d;<br>
+Till by a Dose of Forreign <i>Ophir</i> drencht,<br>
+The Feavour of his Burning Zeal was Quencht.<br>
+<i>Ophir</i>, that rescu’d the Court-Drugsters Fate,<br>
+Sent in the Nick to gild his Pills of State.<br>
+Whilst the kind Skill of our Law-Emperick,<br>
+Sublim’d his Mercury to save his Neck.<br>
+In Law, they say, he had but a slender Mite,<br>
+And Sense he had less: for as Historians write,<br>
+The <i>Arabian</i> Legate laid a Snare so gay,<br>
+As Spirited his little Wits away.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">34</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[20]</span>
+Of the Records of Law he fancied none<br>
+Like the Commandment Tables graved in Stone.<br>
+And wish’d the <i>Talmude</i> such, that Soveraign sway<br>
+When once displeased might th’angry <i>Moses</i> play.<br>
+Onely his Law was Brittle i’th’ wrong place:<br>
+For had our <i>Corah</i> been in <i>Moses</i> Case,<br>
+The Fury of his Zeal had been employ’d<br>
+To build that Calf which th’others Rage destroy’d.<br>
+Thus <i>Corah, Baals</i> true Fayry Changeling made,<br>
+He Bleated onely as the <i>Pharisees</i> pray’d,<br>
+All to advance that future Tyrant pow’r,<br>
+Should Widows Houses gorge, and Orphans Tears devour.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Nor are these all their Instruments; to prop<br>
+Their Mighty Cause, and <i>Israels</i> Murmurs stop;<br>
+They find a sort of Academick Tools;<br>
+Who by the Politick Doctrine of their Schools,<br>
+Betwixt Reward, Pride, Avarice, Hope and Fear,<br>
+Prizing their Heav’n too cheap, the World too dear,<br>
+Stand bold and strong for <i>Absolons</i> Defence:<br>
+Interest the Thing, but Conscience the Pretence.<br>
+These to ensure him for their <i>Sions</i> King,<br>
+A Right Divine quite down from <i>Adam</i> bring,<br>
+That old Levitick Engine of Renown,<br>
+That makes no Taint of Souls a bar t’a Crown.<br>
+’Tis true, Religions constant Champion vow’d,<br>
+Each open-mouth’d, with Pulpit-Thunder lowd,<br>
+Against false Gods, and Idol Temples bawls;<br>
+Yet lays the very Stones that raise their Walls.<br>
+They preach up Hell to those that <i>Baal</i> adore,<br>
+Yet make’t Damnation to oppose his pow’r.<br>
+So far this Paradox of Conscience run,<br>
+Till <i>Israels</i> Faith pulls <i>Israels</i> Altars down.<br>
+Grant Heav’n they don’t to <i>Baal</i> so far make way,<br>
+Those fatal <i>Wands</i> before their Sheepfolds lay.<br>
+Such Motley Principles amongst them thrown,<br>
+Shall nurse that Py-ball’d Flock that’s half his own.<br>
+Nor may they say, when <i>Molocks</i> Hands draw nigher,<br>
+We built the Pile, whilst <i>Baal</i> but gives it fire.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+If Monarchy in <i>Adam</i> first begun,<br>
+When the Worlds Monarch dug, and his Queen spun,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">35</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[21]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">G</span>
+His Fig-leaves his first Coronation-Robe,<br>
+His Spade his Scepter, and her Wheel his Globe;<br>
+And Royal Birthright, as their Schools assert,<br>
+Not Kings themselves with Conscience can divert;<br>
+How came the World possest by <i>Adams</i> Sons,<br>
+Such various Principalities, Powres, Thrones?<br>
+When each went out and chose what Lands he pleas’d,<br>
+Whilst a new Family new Kingdoms rais’d?</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+His Sons assuming what he could not give,<br>
+Their Soveraign Sires right Heir they did deprive;<br>
+And from Rebellion all their pow’r derive:<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+For were there an original Majesty<br>
+Upheld by Right Divine, the World should be<br>
+Onely one Universal Monarchy.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+O cruel Right Divine, more full of Fate,<br>
+Then th’ Angels flaming Sword at <i>Edens</i> Gate,<br>
+Such early Treason through Mankind convey’d,<br>
+And at the door of Infant-Nature layd.<br>
+For Right Divine in <i>Esau’s</i> just defence,<br>
+Why don’t they quarrel with Omnipotence,<br>
+The first-born <i>Esau’s</i> Right to <i>Jacob</i> giv’n,<br>
+And Gods gift too, Injustice charge on Heav’n.<br>
+Nay, let Heav’n answer this one Fact alone,<br>
+Mounting a Bastard <i>Jephtha</i> on a Throne.<br>
+If Kings and Sanedrims those Laws could make,<br>
+Which from offending Heirs their Heads can take;<br>
+And a First-born can forfeit Life and Throne,<br>
+And all by Law: why not a Crown alone?<br>
+Strange-bounded Law-makers! whose pow’r can throw<br>
+The deadlier Bolt, can’t give the weaker Blow.<br>
+A Treasonous Act; nay, but a Treasonous Breath<br>
+Against offended Majesty is Death.<br>
+But, oh! the wondrous Church-distinction given<br>
+Between the Majesty of Kings and Heav’n!<br>
+The venial sinner here, he that intreagues<br>
+With <i>Egypt, Babylon</i>; Cabals, Plots, Leagues<br>
+With <i>Israels</i> Foes her Altars to destroy,<br>
+A Hair untouch’d, shall Health, Peace, Crowns enjoy.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Truths Temple thus the Exhalations bred<br>
+From her own Bowels, to obscure her Head.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">36</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[22]</span>
+And <i>Absolom</i> already had subdu’d<br>
+Whole Crowds of the unthinking Multitude.<br>
+But through these Wiles too weak to catch the Wise,<br>
+Thin as their Ephod-Lawn, a Cobweb Net for Flyes,<br>
+The searching Sanedrim saw; and to dispel<br>
+Th’ingendring Mists that threatned <i>Israel</i>,<br>
+They still resolv’d their Plotting Foes defeat,<br>
+By barring <i>Absolon</i> th’Imperial Seat.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+But here’s his greatest Tug; could he but make<br>
+Th’<ins class = "edcorr" title =
+"corrected by author to ‘Excluding’">encluding</ins>
+Sanedrims Resolves once shake;<br>
+Nay, make the smallest Breach, or clashing Jar,<br>
+In their great Councel, push but home so far,<br>
+And the great Point’s secur’d.&mdash;&mdash;And, lo! among<br>
+The Princely Heads of that Illustrious Throng,<br>
+He saw rich Veins with Noble Blood new fill’d;<br>
+Others who Honour from Dependance held.<br>
+Some with exhausted Fortunes, to support<br>
+Their Greatness, propt with Crutches from a Court.<br>
+These for their Countries Right their Votes still pass,<br>
+Mov’d like the Water in a Weather-glass,<br>
+Higher or lower, as the powerful Charm<br>
+O’th’ Soveraign Hand is either cool or warm.<br>
+Here must th’Attacque be made: for well we know,<br>
+Reason and Titles from one Fountain flow:<br>
+Whilst Favour Men no less than Fortunes builds,<br>
+And Honour ever Moulds as well as Guilds.<br>
+Honour that still does even new Souls inspire;<br>
+Honour more powerful than the Heav’n-stoln Fire.<br>
+These must be wrought to <i>Absolons</i> Defence.<br>
+For though to baffle the whole Sanedrims Sence,<br>
+T’attempt Impossibles would be in vain,<br>
+Yet ’tis enough but to <i>Divide</i> and <i>Raign</i>.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Here though small Force such easie Converts draws,<br>
+Yet ’tis thought fit in glory to their Cause,<br>
+Some learned Champion of prodigious Sense,<br>
+With Mighty and long studyed Eloquence,<br>
+Should with a kind of Inspiration rise,<br>
+And the unguarded Sanedrim surprize,</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+And such resistless conquering Reasons press,<br>
+To charm their vanquisht Souls, that the Success<br>
+Might look like Conscience, though ’tis nothing less.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+<span class = "facpage">37</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[23]</span>
+For this Design no Head nor Tongue so well,<br>
+As that of the profound <i>Achitophel</i>.<br>
+How, great <i>Achitophel</i>! his Hand, his Tongue!<br>
+<i>Babylons</i> Mortal Foe; he who so long<br>
+With haughty Sullenness, and scornful Lowr,<br>
+Had loath’d false Gods, and Arbitrary pow’r.<br>
+’Gainst <i>Baal</i> no Combatant more fierce than he;<br>
+For <i>Israels</i> asserted Liberty,<br>
+No Man more bold; with generous Rage enflam’d,<br>
+Against the old ensnaring Test declaim’d.<br>
+Beside, he bore a most peculiar Hate<br>
+To sleeping Pilots, all Earth-clods of State.<br>
+None more abhorr’d the Sycophant Buffoon,<br>
+And Parasite, th’excrescence of a Throne;<br>
+Creatures who their creating Sun disgrace,<br>
+A Brood more abject than <i>Niles</i> Slime-born Race.<br>
+Such was the Brave <i>Achitophel</i>; a Mind,<br>
+(If but the Heart and Face were of a kind)<br>
+So far from being by one base Thought deprav’d,<br>
+That sure half ten such Souls had <i>Sodom</i> sav’d.<br>
+Here <i>Baals</i> Cabal <i>Achitophel</i> survey’d,<br>
+And dasht with wonder, half despairing said,<br>
+Is this the Hand that <i>Absolon</i> must Crown,<br>
+The Founder of his Temples, Palace, Throne?<br>
+This, This the mighty Convert we must make?<br>
+Gods, h’has a Soul not all our Arts can shake.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+At this a nicer graver Head stept out,<br>
+And with this Language chid their groundless Doubt:<br>
+For shame, no more; what is’t that frights you thus?<br>
+Is it his Hatred of our God, and us,<br>
+Makes him so formidable in your Eye?<br>
+Or is’t his Wit, Sense, Honour, Bravery?<br>
+Give him a thousand Virtues more, and plant<br>
+Them round him like a Wall of Adamant,<br>
+Strong as the Gates of Heaven; we’ll reach his Heart:<br>
+Cheer, cheer, my Friends, I’ve found one Mortal part.<br>
+For he has <i>Pride</i>, a vast insatiate <i>Pride</i>,<br>
+Kind Stark, he’s vulnerable on that side.<br>
+Pride that made Angels fall, and pride that hurl’d<br>
+Entayl’d Destruction through a ruin’d World.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">38</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[24]</span>
+<i>Adam</i> from Pride to Disobedience ran:<br>
+To be like Gods, made a lost wretched Man.<br>
+There, there, my Sons, let our pour’d strength all fly:<br>
+For some bold Tempter now to rap him high,<br>
+From Pinnacles to Mountain Top, and show<br>
+The gaudy Glories of the World below.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+At which the Consult came to this Design,<br>
+To work him by a kind of Touch Divine.<br>
+To raise some holy Spright to do the Feat.<br>
+Nothing like Dreams and Visions to the Great.<br>
+Did not a little Witch of <i>Endor</i> bring<br>
+A Visionary Seer t’a cheated King?<br>
+And shall their greater Magick want Success,<br>
+Their more Illustrious Sorceries do less!</p>
+
+<p class = "verse inline">
+<ins class = "mycorr" title = "indentation as in original">This</ins>
+final Resolution made, at last<br>
+Some Mystick words, and invocations past,<br>
+They call’d the Spirit of a late Court-Scribe;<br>
+Once a true Servant of the Plotting Tribe:<br>
+When both with Forreign and Domestick Cost,<br>
+He plaid the feasted Sanedrims kind Host.<br>
+H’had scribbled much, and like a Patriot bold,<br>
+Bid high for <i>Israels</i> Peace with <i>Egypts</i> Gold.<br>
+But since a Martyr. (Why! as Writers think,<br>
+His Masters Hand had over-gall’d his Ink.)<br>
+And by protesting <i>Absoloms</i> wise care,<br>
+Popt into Brimstone ere he was aware.<br>
+Him from the Grave they rais’d, in ample kind,<br>
+His sever’d Head to his seer Quarters joyn’d;<br>
+Then cas’d his Chin in a false Beard so well,<br>
+As made him pass for Father <i>Samuel</i>.<br>
+Him thus equipt in a Religious Cloak,<br>
+They thus his new-made Reverence bespoke.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Go, awful Spright, hast to <i>Achitophel</i>,<br>
+Rouze his great Soul, use every Art, Charm, Spell:<br>
+For <i>Absolom</i> thy utmost Rhetorick try,<br>
+Preach him Succession, roar’d Succession cry,<br>
+Succession drest in all her glorious pride,<br>
+Succession Worshipt, Sainted, Deify’d.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">39</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[25]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">H</span>
+Conjure him by Divine and Humane Pow’rs,<br>
+Convince, Convert, Confound, make him but ours,<br>
+That <i>Absolon</i> may mount on <i>Judahs</i> Throne,<br>
+Whilst all the World before us is our own.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+The forward Spright but few Instructions lackt,<br>
+Strait by the Moons pale light away he packt,<br>
+And in a trice, his Curtains open’d wide,<br>
+He sate him by <i>Achitophels</i> Bed-side.<br>
+And in this style his artful Accents ran.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Hear <i>Israels</i> Hope, thou more than happy Man,<br>
+Beloved on high, witness this Honour done<br>
+By Father <i>Samuel</i>, and believe me, Son,<br>
+’Tis by no common Mandate of a God,<br>
+A Soul beatifyed, the blest Abode<br>
+Thus low deserting, quits Immortal Thrones,<br>
+And from his Grave resumes his sleeping Bones.<br>
+But Heavn’s the Guide, and wondrous is the way,<br>
+Divine the Embassie: hear, and obey.<br>
+How long, <i>Achitophel</i>, and how profound<br>
+A Mist of Hell has thy lost Reason drown’d?<br>
+Can the Apostacy from <i>Israels</i> Faith,<br>
+In <i>Israels</i> Heir, deserve a murmuring Breath?<br>
+Or to preserve Religion, Liberty,<br>
+Peace, Nations, Souls, is that a Cause so high,<br>
+As the Right Heir from Empire to debar?<br>
+Forbid it Heav’n, and guard him every Star.<br>
+Alas, what if an Heir of Royal Race,<br>
+Gods Glory and his Temples will deface,<br>
+And make a prey of your Estates, Lives, Laws;<br>
+Nay, give your Sons to <i>Molocks</i> burning paws;<br>
+Shall you exclude him? hold that Impious Hand.<br>
+As <i>Abraham</i> gave his Son at Gods Command,<br>
+Think still he does by <i>Divine Right</i> succeed:<br>
+God bids Him Reign, and you should bid Them Bleed.<br>
+’Tis true, as Heav’ns Elected Flock, you may<br>
+For his Conversion, and your Safety <i>pray</i><br>
+But Pray’rs are all. To Disinherit him,<br>
+The very Thought, nay, Word it self’s a Crime.<br>
+For that’s the <span class = "extended">MEANS</span> of Safety: but
+forbear,<br>
+For Means are Impious in the Sons of Pray’r.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">40</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[26]</span>
+To Miracles alone your Safety owe;<br>
+And <i>Abrahams</i> Angel wait to stop the Blow.<br>
+Yes, what if his polluted Throne be strowd<br>
+With Sacriledge, Idolatry, and Blood;<br>
+And ’tis you mount him there; you’re innocent still:<br>
+For he’s a King, and Kings can do no ill.<br>
+Oh Royal Birthright, ’tis a Sacred Name:<br>
+Rowze then <i>Achitophel</i>, rowze up for shame:<br>
+Let not this Lethargy thy Soul benum;<br>
+But wake, and save the Godlike <i>Absolom</i>.<br>
+And to reward thee for a Deed so great<br>
+Glut thy Desires, thy full-crown’d wishes meet,<br>
+Be with accumulated Honours blest,<br>
+And grasp a <span class = "extended">STAR</span> t’adorn thy shining
+Crest.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse"><i>Achitophel</i> before his Eyes could ope,<br>
+Dreamt of an Ephod, Mitre, and a Cope.<br>
+Those visionary Robes t’his Eyes appear’d:<br>
+For Priestly all was the great Sense he heard.<br>
+But Priest or Prophet, Right Divine, or all<br>
+Together; ’twas not at their feebler call,<br>
+’Twas at the <i>Star</i> he wak’d; the <i>Star</i> but nam’d,<br>
+Flasht in his Eyes, and his rowz’d Soul enflam’d.<br>
+A <i>Star</i>, whose Influence had more powerful Light,<br>
+Then that Miraculous Wanderer of the Night,<br>
+Decreed to guide the Eastern Sages way:<br>
+Their’s to adore a God, his to betray.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Here the new Convert more than half inspir’d,<br>
+Strait to his Closet and his Books retir’d.<br>
+There for all needful Arts in this extreme,<br>
+For knotty Sophistry t’a limber Theme,<br>
+Long brooding ere the Mass to Shape was brought,<br>
+And after many a tugging heaving Thought,<br>
+Together a well-orderd Speech he draws,<br>
+With ponderous Sounds for his much-labour’d Cause.<br>
+Then the astonisht Sanedrim he storm’d,<br>
+And with such doughty strength the Tug perform’d:<br>
+Fate did the Work with so much Conquest bless,<br>
+Wondrous the Champion, Glorious the Success.<br>
+So powerful Eloquence, so strong was Wit;<br>
+And with such Force the easie Wind-falls hit.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+<span class = "facpage">41</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[27]</span>
+But the entirest Hearts his Cause could steal,<br>
+Were the Levitick Chiefs of <i>Israel</i>.<br>
+None with more Rage the Impious Thought run down<br>
+Of barring <i>Absolon</i>, Pow’r, Wishes, Crown.<br>
+With so much vehemence, such fiery Zeal!<br>
+Oh, poor unhappy Church of <i>Israel!</i><br>
+Thou feelst the Fate of the Arch-angels Wars,<br>
+The Dragons Tayl sweeps down thy Falling Stars.<br>
+Nay, the black Vote ’gainst <i>Absolon</i> appear’d<br>
+So monstrous, that they damn’d it ere ’twas heard.<br>
+For Prelates ne’r in Sanedrims debate,<br>
+They argue in the Church, but not i’th’ State;<br>
+And when their Thoughts aslant towards Heav’n they turn,<br>
+They weigh each Grain of Incense that they burn,<br>
+But t’Heavens Vice-<ins class = "mycorr" title =
+"not ‘regents’">gerents</ins>, Soul, Sense, Reason, all,<br>
+Or right or wrong, like Hecatombs must fall.<br>
+And when State-business calls their Thoughts below,<br>
+Then like their own Church-Organ-Pipes they go.<br>
+Not <i>Davids</i> Lyre could more his Touch obey:<br>
+For as their Princes breathe and strike, they play.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+’Gainst Royal Will they never can dispute,<br>
+But by a strange <i>Tarantula</i> strook mute,<br>
+Dance to no other Tune but <i>Absolute</i>.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+All Acts of Supreme Power they still admire:<br>
+’Tis Sacred, though to set the World on Fire,<br>
+Though Church-Infallibility they explode,<br>
+As making Humane knowledge equal God;<br>
+Infallible in a new name goes down,<br>
+Not in the Mitre lodged, but in the Crown.<br>
+’Tis true, blest <i>Deborahs</i> Laws they could forget:<br>
+(But want of Memory commends their Wit.)<br>
+Where ’twas enacted Treason, not to own<br>
+Hers and her Sanedrins right to place the Crown.<br>
+But her weak Heads oth’ Church, mistaken fools,<br>
+Wanted the Light of their sublimer Schools:</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+For Divine Right could no such Forces bring.<br>
+But Wisdom now expands her wider Wing,<br>
+And Streams are ever deeper than the Spring.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Besides, they’ve sense of Honour; and who knows<br>
+How far the Gratitude of Priest-craft goes?<br>
+<span class = "facpage">42</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[28]</span>
+And what if now like old <i>Elisha</i> fed,<br>
+To praise the Sooty Bird that brought ’em Bread,<br>
+In pure acknowledgment, though in despight<br>
+Of their own sense, they paint the Raven White.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse"><i>Achitophel</i> charm’d with kind Fortunes
+Smiles,<br>
+Flusht with Success, now glows for bolder Toyls.<br>
+Great Wits perverted greatest Mischiefs hold,<br>
+As poysonous Vapors spring from Mines of Gold.<br>
+And proud to see himself with Triumph blest,<br>
+Thus to great <i>Absolom</i> himself addrest.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Illustrious Terrour of the World, all hayle:<br>
+For ever like your Conquering Self prevaile.<br>
+In spight of Malice in full Luster shine;<br>
+Be your each Action, Word, and Look Divine,<br>
+Nay, though our Altars you’ve so long forborne;<br>
+To your derided Foes Defeat, and Scorne,<br>
+For your Renown we have those Trumpets found,<br>
+Shall ev’n this Deed your highest Glory sound.<br>
+That spight of the ill-judging Worlds mistake,<br>
+Your Soul still owns those Temples you forsake:<br>
+Onely by all-commanding Honour driven,<br>
+This self-denial you have made with Heav’n:<br>
+Quitting our Altars, cause the Insolence<br>
+Of prophane Sanedrims has driven you thence.<br>
+A Prince his Faith to such low Slaves reveal!<br>
+’Twas Treason though to God to bid You kneel.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+And what though senseless barking Murmurers scold,<br>
+And with a Rage too blasphemously bold,<br>
+Say <i>Israels</i> Crown’s for <i>Esau</i>’s Pottage sold.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Let ’em rayl on; and to strike Envy dumb;<br>
+May the Slaves live till that great Day shall come,<br>
+When their husht Rage shall your keen Vengeance fly,<br>
+And silenc’d with your Royal Thunder dye.<br>
+Nay, to outsoar your weak Fore-fathers Wings,<br>
+And to be all that Nature first meant Kings;<br>
+Damn’d be the Law that Majesty confines,<br>
+But doubly damn’d accursed Sanedrins,<br>
+Invented onely to eclipse a Crown.<br>
+Oh throw that dull Mosaick Land-mark down.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">43</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[29]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">I</span>
+The making Sanedrims a part of Pow’r,<br>
+Nurst but those Vipers which its Sire devour.<br>
+Lodg’d in the Pallace tow’rds the Throne they press,<br>
+For Pow’rs Enjoyment does its Lust increase.<br>
+Allegiance onely is in Chains held fast;<br>
+Make Men ne’re thirst, is ne’re to let ’em tast.<br>
+Then, Royal Sir, be Sanedrims no more,<br>
+Lop off that rank Luxurious Branch of pow’r:<br>
+Those hungry <i>Scions</i> from the <i>Cedar</i> root,<br>
+That its Imperial Head towards Heav’n may shoot.<br>
+When Lordly Sanedrims with Kings give Law,<br>
+And thus in yokes like Mules together draw;<br>
+From <i>Judahs</i> Arms the Royal Lyon raze,<br>
+And <i>Issachars</i> dull Ass supply the place.<br>
+If Kings o’re common Mankind have this odds,<br>
+Are Gods Vicegerents; let ’em act like Gods.<br>
+As Man is Heav’ns own clay, which it may mould<br>
+For Honour or Dishonour, uncontrould,<br>
+And Monarchy is mov’d by Heav’nly Springs;<br>
+Why is not Humane Fate i’th’ Breath of Kings?<br>
+Then, Sir, from Heav’n your great Example take,<br>
+And be th’unbounded Lord a King should make:<br>
+Resume what bold Invading Slaves engrost,<br>
+And onely Pow’rs Effeminacy lost.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+To this kind <i>Absolom</i> but little spoke;<br>
+Onely return’d a Nod, and gracious Look.<br>
+For though recorded Fame with pride has told,<br>
+Of his great Actings, Wonders manifold;<br>
+And his great Thinkings most Diviners guess;<br>
+Yet his great Speakings no Records express.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+All things thus safe; and now for one last blow,<br>
+To give his Foes a total Overthrow;<br>
+A Blow not in Hells Legends match’d before,<br>
+The remov’d Plot’s laid at the Enemies door.<br>
+The old Plot forg’d against the Saints of <i>Baal</i>,<br>
+Cheat, Perjury, and Subornation all,<br>
+Whilst with a more damn’d Treason of their own,<br>
+Like working Moles they’re digging round the Throne;<br>
+<i>Baal</i>, <i>Baal</i>, the cry, and <i>Absolom</i> the Name,<br>
+But <i>Davids</i> glory, Life and Crown the Aim.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">44</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[30]</span>
+Nay, if but a Petition peep abroad,<br>
+Though for the Glory both of Church and God,<br>
+And to preserve even their yet unborn Heirs;<br>
+There’s Blood and Treason in their very Prayers.<br>
+This unexampled Impudence upheld;<br>
+The Governments best Friends, the Crowns best Sheild,<br>
+The Great and Brave with equal Treason brands.<br>
+Faith, Honour, and Allegiance strongest Bands<br>
+All broken like the Cords of <i>Sampson</i> fall,<br>
+Whilst th’universal Leprosie taints all.<br>
+These poysonous shafts with greater spleen they draw,<br>
+Than the Outragious Wife of <i>Potypha</i>.<br>
+So the chast <i>Joseph</i> unseduc’d to her<br>
+Adult’ries, was pronounc’d a Ravisher.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+This hellish Ethnick Plot the Court alarms;<br>
+The Traytors seventy thousand strong in Arms,<br>
+Near <i>Endor</i> Town lay ready at a Call,<br>
+And garrison’d in Airy Castles all.<br>
+These Warriours on a sort of Coursers rid,<br>
+Ne’r log’d in Stables, or by Man bestrid.<br>
+What though the steele with which the Rebels fought,<br>
+No Forge e’re felt, or Anvile ever wrought?<br>
+Yet this Magnetick Plot, for black Designs,<br>
+Can raise cold Iron from the very Mines.<br>
+To this were twenty Under-plots, contriv’d<br>
+By Malice, and by Ignorance believ’d,<br>
+Till Shamms met Shamms, and Plots with Plots so crost,<br>
+That the True Plot amongst the False was lost.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Of all the much-wrong’d Worthies of the Land<br>
+Whom this Contagious Infamy profan’d,<br>
+In the first Rank the youthful <i>Ithream</i> stood,<br>
+His Princely Veins fill’d with great <i>Davids</i> Blood.<br>
+With so much Manly Beauty in his Face,<br>
+Scarce his High Birth could lend a Nobler Grace.<br>
+And for a Mind fit for this shrine of Gold<br>
+Heaven cast his Soul in the same Beauteous Mould;<br>
+With all the sweets of Prideless Greatness blest,<br>
+As Affable as <i>Abrahams</i> Angel-Guest.<br>
+But when in Wars his glittering Steel he drew,<br>
+No Chief more Bold with fiercer Lightning flew:<br>
+<span class = "facpage">45</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[31]</span>
+Witness his tryal of an Arm Divine,<br>
+Passing the Ordeal of a <i>Burning Mine</i>:<br>
+Such forward Courage did his Bosome fill,<br>
+Starting from nothing, but from doing ill.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Still with such Heat in Honours Race he run,<br>
+Such Wonders by his early Valour done,<br>
+Enough to charm a second <i>Joshua’s</i> Sun.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+But he has Foes; his fatal Enemies<br>
+To a strange Monster his Fair Truth disguise;<br>
+And shew the Gorgon even to Royal Eyes.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+To their false perspectives his Fate he owes,<br>
+The spots i’th’ Glass, not in the Star it shows.<br>
+Yet when by the Imperial Sentence doom’d,<br>
+The Royal Hand the Princely Youth unplum’d,<br>
+He his hard Fate without a Murmur took,<br>
+And stood with that Calm, Duteous, Humble look.<br>
+Of all his shining Honours unarray’d,<br>
+Like <i>Isaac’s</i> Head on <i>Abrahams</i> Altar lay’d.<br>
+Yes, <i>Absolom</i>, thou hast him in the Toyl,<br>
+Rifled, and lost; now Triumph in the Spoyl.<br>
+His Zeal too high for <i>Israels</i> Temples soar’d,<br>
+His God-like Youth by prostrate Hearts ador’d,<br>
+Till thy Revenge from Spight and Fear began,<br>
+And too near Heaven took Care to make him Man.<br>
+Though <i>Israels</i> King, God, Laws, share all his Soul,<br>
+Adorn’d with all that Heroes can enrol,<br>
+Yet Vow’d Successions cruel Sacrifice,<br>
+Great <i>Judah</i>’s Son like <i>Jeptha</i>’s Daughter dies.<br>
+Yes, like a Monument of Wrath he stands;<br>
+Such Ruine <i>Absolons</i> Revenge demands;<br>
+His Curiosity his Doom assign’d:<br>
+For ’twas a Crime of as destructive Kind,<br>
+To pry how <i>Babylons</i> Burning Zeal aspires,<br>
+As to look back on Sodoms blazing Fires.<br>
+But spoyl’d, and rob’d, his drossier Glories gone,<br>
+His Virtue and his Truth are still his own.<br>
+No rifling Hands can that bright Treasure take,<br>
+Nor all his Foes that Royal Charter shake.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+The dreadful’st Foe their Engines must subdue,<br>
+The strongest Rock through which their Arts must hew,<br>
+Was great <i>Barzillai</i>: could they reach his Head,<br>
+Their Fears all husht, they had strook Danger dead.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">46</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[32]</span>
+That second <i>Moses</i>-Guide resolv’d to free<br>
+Our <i>Israel</i> from her threatning Slavery,<br>
+Idolatry and Chains; both from the Rods<br>
+Of <i>Pharoh</i>-Masters, and <i>Egyptian</i> Gods:<br>
+And from that Wilderness of Errour freed,<br>
+Where Dogstars scorch, and killing Serpents breed:<br>
+That <i>Israels</i> Liberty and Truth may grow,<br>
+The <i>Canaan</i> whence our Milk and Honey flow.<br>
+Such our <i>Barzillai</i>; but <i>Barzillai</i> too,<br>
+With <i>Moses</i> Fate does <i>Moses</i> Zeal pursue:<br>
+Leads to that Bliss which his own Silver Hairs<br>
+Shall never reach, Rich onely to his Heirs.<br>
+Kind Patriot, who to plant us Banks of Flow’rs,<br>
+With purling Streams, cool Shades, and Summer Bow’rs,<br>
+His Ages needful Rest away does fling,<br>
+Exhausts his Autumn to adorn our Spring:<br>
+Whilst his last hours in Toyls and Storms are hurl’d,<br>
+And onely to enrich th’inheriting World.<br>
+Thus prodigally throws his Lifes short span,<br>
+To play his Countries generous Pelican.<br>
+But oh, that all-be-devill’d Paper, fram’d<br>
+No doubt, in Hell; that Mass of Treason damn’d;<br>
+By <i>Esau</i>’s Hands, and <i>Jacobs</i> Voice disclos’d;<br>
+And timely to th’ Abhorring World expos’d.<br>
+Nay, what’s more wondrous, this wast-paper Tool,<br>
+A nameless, unsubscrib’d, and useless scrowl,<br>
+Was, by a Politician great in Fame,<br>
+(His Chains foreseen a Month before they came)<br>
+Preserv’d on purpose, by his prudent care,<br>
+To brand his Soul, and ev’n his Life ensnare.<br>
+But then the Geshuritish Troop, well-Oath’d,<br>
+And for the sprucer Face, well-fed, and Cloath’d.<br>
+These to the Bar Obedient Swearers go,<br>
+With all the Wind their manag’d Lungs can blow.<br>
+So have I seen from Bellows brazen Snout,<br>
+The Breath drawn in, and by th’same Hand squeez’d out.<br>
+But helping Oaths may innocently fly,<br>
+When in a Faith where dying Vows can lye.<br>
+Were Treason and Democracie his Ends,<br>
+Why was’t not prov’d by his Revolting Friends?<br>
+Why did not th<ins class = "mycorr" title = "missing">’</ins> Oaths of
+his once-great Colleagues,<br>
+<i>Achitophel</i> and the rest prove his Intreagues?<br>
+<span class = "facpage">47</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[33]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">K</span>
+Why at the Bar appear’d such sordid scum,<br>
+And all those Nobler Tongues of Honour dumb?<br>
+Could he his Plots t’his great Allies conceal,<br>
+He durst to leaky Starving Wretches tell;<br>
+Such Ignorant Princes, and such knowing Slaves;<br>
+His <i>Babel</i> building Tools from such poor Knaves.<br>
+Were he that Monster his new Foes would make<br>
+Th’unreasoning World beleive, his Soul so black,<br>
+That they in Conscience did his Side forego,<br>
+Knowing him guilty they could prove him so.<br>
+Then ’twas not Conscience made ’em change their side.<br>
+Or if they knew, yet did his Treasons hide;<br>
+In not exposing his detested Crime,<br>
+They’re greater Monsters than they dare think Him.<br>
+Are these the Proselites renown’d so high,<br>
+Converts to Duty, Honour, Loyalty?<br>
+Poorly they change, who in their change stand mute:<br>
+Converts to Truth ought Falsehood to confute.<br>
+To conquering Truth, they but small glory give,<br>
+Who turn to God, yet let the Dagon live.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+But who can <i>Amiels</i> charming Wit withstand,<br>
+The great State-pillar of the Muses Land.<br>
+For lawless and ungovern’d, had the Age<br>
+The Nine wild Sisters seen run mad with Rage,<br>
+Debaucht to Savages, till his keen Pen<br>
+Brought their long banisht Reason back again,<br>
+Driven by his Satyres into Natures Fence,<br>
+And lasht the idle Rovers into Sense.<br>
+Nay, his sly Muse, in Style Prophetick, wrot<br>
+The whole Intrigue of <i>Israels</i> Ethnick Plot;<br>
+Form’d strange Battalions, in stupendious-wise,<br>
+Whole Camps in Masquerade, and Armies in disguise.<br>
+<i>Amiel</i>, whose generous Gallantry, whilst Fame<br>
+Shall have a Tongue, shall never want a Name.<br>
+Who, whilst his Pomp his lavish Gold consumes,<br>
+Moulted his Wings to lend a Throne his Plumes,<br>
+Whilst an Ungrateful Court he did attend,<br>
+Too poor to pay, what it had pride to spend.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+But, <i>Amiel</i> has, alas, the fate to hear,<br>
+An angry Poet play his Chronicler;<br>
+<span class = "facpage">48</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[34]</span>
+A Poet rais’d above Oblivions Shade,<br>
+By his Recorded Verse Immortal made.<br>
+But, Sir, his livelier Figure to engrave,<br>
+With Branches added to the <i>Bays</i> you gave:<br>
+No Muse could more Heroick Feats rehearse,<br>
+Had with an equal all-applauding Verse,<br>
+Great <i>Davids</i> Scepter, and <i>Sauls</i> Javelin prais’d:<br>
+A Pyramide to his Saint, <i>Interest</i>, rais’d.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+For which Religiously no Change he mist,<br>
+From Common-wealths-man up to Royalist:<br>
+Nay, would have been his own loath’d thing call’d <i>Priest</i>.<br>
+
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Priest, whom with so much Gall he does describe,<br>
+’Cause once unworthy thought of <i>Levies</i> Tribe.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Near those bright Tow’rs where Art has Wonders done,<br>
+Where <i>Davids</i> sight glads the blest Summers Sun;<br>
+And at his feet proud <i>Jordans</i> Waters run;<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+A Cell there stands by Pious Founders rais’d,<br>
+Both for its Wealth and Learned <i>Rabbins</i> prais’d:<br>
+To this did an Ambitious Bard aspire,<br>
+To be no less than Lord of that blest Quire:<br>
+Till Wisdom deem’d so Sacred a Command,<br>
+A Prize too great for his unhallow’d Hand.<br>
+Besides, lewd Fame had told his plighted Vow,<br>
+To <i>Laura’s</i> cooing Love percht on a dropping Bough<br>
+<i>Laura</i> in faithful Constancy confin’d<br>
+To <i>Ethiops</i> Envoy, and to all Mankind.<br>
+<i>Laura</i> though Rotten, yet of Mold Divine;<br>
+He had all her Cl&mdash;ps, and She had all his Coine.<br>
+Her Wit so far his Purse and Sense could drain,<br>
+Till every P&mdash;x was sweetn’d to a Strain.<br>
+And if at last his Nature can reform,<br>
+A weary grown of Loves tumultuous storm,<br>
+’Tis Ages Fault, not His; of pow’r bereft,<br>
+He left not Whoring, but of that was left.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+But wandring Muse bear up thy flagging Wing:<br>
+To thy more glorious Theme return, and sing<br>
+Brave <i>Jothams</i> Worth, Impartial, Great, and Just,<br>
+Of unbrib’d Faith, and of unshaken Trust:<br>
+Once <i>Geshurs</i> Lord, their Throne so nobly fill’d,<br>
+As if to th’borrow’d Scepter that he held,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">49</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[35]</span>
+Th’inspiring <i>David</i> yet more generous grew,<br>
+And lent him his Imperial <i>Genius</i> too.<br>
+Nor has he worn the Royal Image more<br>
+In <i>Israels</i> Viceroy, than Embassador:<br>
+Witness his Gallantry that resolute hour,<br>
+When to uphold the Sacred Pride of Pow’r,<br>
+His stubborn Flags from the <i>Sydonian</i> shore,<br>
+The angry storms of Thundring Castles bore.<br>
+But these are Virtues Fame must less admire,<br>
+Because deriv’d from that Heroick Sire,<br>
+Who on a Block a dauntless Martyr dy’d,<br>
+With all the Sweetness of a Smiling Bride;<br>
+Charm’d with the Thought of Honours Starry Pole,<br>
+With Joy laid down a Head to mount a Soul.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Of all the Champions rich in Honours Scarrs,<br>
+Whose Loyalty through <i>Davids</i> ancient Wars,<br>
+(In spight of the triumphant Tyrants pride,)<br>
+Was to his lowest Ebb of Fortune ty’d;<br>
+No Link more strong in all that Chain of Gold,<br>
+Then <i>Amasai</i>, the Constant, and the Bold.<br>
+That Warlike General whose avenging Sword,<br>
+Through all the Battles of his Royal Lord,<br>
+Pour’d all the Fires that Loyal Zeal could light,<br>
+No brighter Star in the lost <i>Davids</i> night.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+No less with Laurels <i>Ashurs</i> Brows adorn,<br>
+That mangled Brave who with <i>Tyres</i> Thunder torn,<br>
+Brought a dismember’d Load of Honour home,<br>
+And lives to make both th’Earth and Seas his Tomb.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+With Reverence the Religious <i>Helon</i> treat,<br>
+Refin’d from all the looseness of the Great.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+<i>Helon</i> who sees his Line of Virtues run<br>
+Beyond the Center of his Grave, his own<br>
+Unfinisht Luster sparkling in his Son.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+A Son so high in Sanedrims renown’d,<br>
+In <i>Israels</i> Intrest strong, in Sense profound.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Under one Roof here Truth a Goddess dwells,<br>
+The Pious Father builds her Shrines and Cells,<br>
+And in the Son she speaks her Oracles.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<span class = "facpage">50</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[36]</span>
+<p class = "verse">
+In the same list young <i>Adriels</i> praise record,<br>
+<i>Adriel</i> the Academick Neighbour Lord;<br>
+<i>Adriel</i> ennobled by a Grandfather,<br>
+And Unkle, both those Glorious Sons of War:<br>
+Both Generals, and both Exiles with their Lord;<br>
+Till with the Royal Wanderer restored,<br>
+They lived to see his Coronation Pride;<br>
+Then surfeiting on too much Transport dy’d.<br>
+O’re <i>Adriels</i> Head these Heroes Spirits shine,<br>
+His Soul with so much Loyal Blood fenc’d in;<br>
+Such Native Virtues his great Mind adorn,<br>
+Whilst under their congenial Influence born.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+In this Record let <i>Camries</i> Name appear,<br>
+The Great <i>Barzillai</i>’s Fellow Sufferer;<br>
+From unknown Hands, of unknown Crimes accus’d,<br>
+Till th’hunted Shadow lost, his Chains unloos’d.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Now to the Sweet-tongu’d <i>Amrams</i> praise be just,<br>
+Once the <i>State-Advocate</i>, that Wealthy Trust,<br>
+Till Flattery the price of dear-bought Gold,<br>
+His Innocence for Pallaces unfold,<br>
+To Naked Truths more shining Beauties true,<br>
+Th<ins class = "mycorr" title = "missing">’</ins>Embroiderd Mantle
+from his Neck he threw.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Next <i>Hothriel</i> write, <i>Baals</i> watchful Foe, and late<br>
+<i>Jerusalems</i> protecting Magistrate;<br>
+Who, when false Jurors were to Frenzy Charm’d,<br>
+And against Innocence even Tribunals arm’d,<br>
+Saw deprav’d Justice ope her Ravenous Jaw,<br>
+And timely broke her Canine Teeth of Law.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Amongst th’Asserters of his Countries Cause,<br>
+Give the bold <i>Micah</i> his deserv’d Applause,<br>
+The Grateful Sanedrims repeated Choice,<br>
+Of Two Great Councels the Successive Voice.<br>
+Of that old hardy Tribe of <i>Israel</i> borne,<br>
+Fear their Disdain, and Flattery their Scorne,<br>
+Too proud to truckle, and too Tough to bend.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Of the same Tribe was <i>Hanan, Ithreams</i> Friend,<br>
+From that fam’d Sire, the Long Robes Glory, sprung,<br>
+In Sanedrims his Countries Pillar long;</p>
+<span class = "facpage">51</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[37]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">L</span>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Long had he fadom’d all the Depths of State;<br>
+Could with that strength, that ponderous Sense debate,<br>
+As turn’d the Scale of Nations with the weight:<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Till subtley made by Spightful Honour Great,<br>
+Prefer’d to <i>Israels</i> Chief Tribunal Seat,<br>
+Made in a higher Orb his Beams dispense,<br>
+To hush his Formidable Eloquence.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+But <i>Israels</i> numerous Worthies are too long<br>
+And Great a Theam for one continued Song.<br>
+Yet These by bold flagitious Tongues run down,<br>
+Made all Conspirers against <i>Davids</i> Crown.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Nay, and there was a Time, had Hell prevail’d,<br>
+Nor Perjury and Subornation fail’d,<br>
+When a long List of Names, for Treason doom’d,<br>
+Had <i>Israels</i> Patriots in one Grave entomb’d:<br>
+A List, with such fair Loyal Colours laid,<br>
+Even to no less than Royal Hands convey’d.<br>
+And the great Mover in this pious Fraud,<br>
+A Dungeon Slave redeem’d by’a Midnight Bawd:<br>
+Then made by Art a Swearer of Renown,<br>
+Nurst and embrac’d by th’Heir of <i>Judahs</i> Crown:<br>
+Encourag’d too by Pension for Reward,<br>
+With his forg’d Scrowls for Guiltless Blood prepared.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Poor Engine for a greatness so sublime:<br>
+But oh, a Cause by which their <i>Baal</i> must climb,<br>
+Ennobles both the Actor and the Crime.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Yet This, and all Things else now quite blown o’re,<br>
+And <i>Absolom</i>, his <i>Israels</i> Fear no more:<br>
+Luster and Pride shall hem his radiant Brow;<br>
+All Knees shall fall, and prostrate Nations bow.<br>
+By Heav’ns, he is, he will, he must, he shall<br>
+Be <i>Israels</i> Heroe, Friend, Saint, Idol, all.<br>
+What though provok’d with all the crying sins<br>
+Of Murmuring Slaves, excluding Sanedrins:<br>
+By profane Crowds in dirt his Prophets spurn<ins class = "mycorr"
+title = "invisible">’</ins>d,<br>
+And ev’n his Gods in mock Processions burn’d:<br>
+Himself from <i>Israel</i> into <i>Hebron</i> sent,<br>
+And doom’d to little less than Banishment.</p>
+<span class = "facpage">52</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[38]</span>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+In spight of all his Scrowls to <i>Babylon</i>;<br>
+And all the promis’d Wonders to be done,<br>
+When <i>Egypts</i> Frogs should croak on <i>Judahs</i> Throne.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Though of a Faith that propagates in Blood;<br>
+Of Passions unforgiving, less withstood</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Then Seas and Tempests, and as Deaf as they.<br>
+Yet all Divine shall be his Godlike Sway,<br>
+And his calm Reign but one long <i>Halcyon</i> Day.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+And this Great Truth he’s damn’d that dares deny;<br>
+’Gainst <i>Absolom</i> even Oracles would lye,<br>
+Though Sense and Reason Preach ’tis Blasphemy.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Then let out dull Mistaken Terrour cease,<br>
+When even our Comets speak all Health and Peace.</p>
+
+
+<hr>
+
+<h4 class = "ital section extended">FINIS.</h4>
+
+<hr class = "section">
+
+
+<h4><a name = "senior_errata">ERRATA.</a></h4>
+
+<p class = "smaller">
+<span class = "firstletter two">T</span><span class =
+"secondletter">h</span>e Reader is desired to Correct these following
+Mistakes.
+Page 1. line 12. for <i>Hold</i>, read <i>Held</i>.
+p. 4. l. 22. r. <i>Ships</i>;
+ibid. l. 26. for <i>Kindl’d</i> r. <ins class = "mycorr"
+title = "unclear"><i>Bank’d</i></ins>;
+ibid. l. 32. r. <i>the Mighty</i>;
+ibid. l. 37 for <i>they</i> r. <i>thus</i>;
+p. 7. l. 18. for <i>poor</i>, r. <i>weak</i>;
+p. 9. l. 3. &amp; 4. for <i>his</i> r. <i>a</i>;
+l. 6. for <i>the</i>, r. <i>ye</i>;
+ibid. l. 20. r. <i>Walls; the Billows pour</i>;
+p. 12. l. 11. r. <i>lov’d Israel</i>;
+p. 19. l. 27. for <i>loo</i> r. <ins class = "mycorr"
+title = "or ‘rate’?"><i>race</i></ins>
+p. 22. l. 10. r. <i>Excluding</i>.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+<img src = "images/52errata.png" width = "556" height = "103"
+alt = "errata list as printed"> <!--1111 x 205 actual-->
+</p>
+
+<hr>
+
+
+<table class = "outline">
+<tr>
+<td class = "lines">
+<span class = "facpage">53</span>
+
+<h2 class = "nospace"><a name = "reflec">Poetical Reflections</a></h2>
+
+<h5 class = "extended nospace">ON A LATE</h5>
+
+<h1 class = "extended nospace">POEM</h1>
+
+<h6 class = "extended nospace">ENTITULED,</h6>
+
+<h3 class = "nospace"><b>Absalom and Achitophel.</b></h3>
+
+<hr class = "full">
+
+<h5 class = "ital">By a Person of Honour.</h5>
+
+<hr class = "full">
+
+<p class = "illustration">
+<img src = "images/reflectitle.png" width = "254" height = "116"
+alt = "decoration">
+</p>
+
+<hr class = "full">
+<hr class = "full">
+
+<h5 class = "ital extended nospace">LONDON:</h5>
+
+<h5 class = "nospace">Printed for <i>Richard Janeway</i>. 1681.</h5>
+
+</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+<span class = "facpage">55</span>
+<span class = "folionum">B</span>
+<hr>
+<hr>
+
+<h5><a name = "reflec_intro">TO THE</a></h5>
+
+<h2 class = "extended">READER.</h2>
+
+<p>
+<span class = "firstletter three">I</span><span class =
+"secondletter">f</span> ever anything, call’d a <i>Poem</i>,
+deserv’d a severe Reflection, that of <i>Absalom</i> and
+<i>Achitophel</i> may justly contract it. For tho’ Lines can never be
+purg’d from the dross and filth they would throw on others (there
+being no retraction that can expiate the conveying of persons to an
+unjust and publick reproach); yet the cleansing of their fames from a
+design’d pollution, may well become a more ingenious Pen than the
+Author of these few reflections will presume to challenge.</p>
+
+<p>
+To epitomize which scandalous Phamphlet (unworthy the denomination of
+<i>Poesy</i>) no eye can inspect it without a prodigious amazement; the
+abuses being so gross and deliberate, that it seems rather a Capital or
+National Libel, than personal exposures, in order to an infamous
+detraction. For how does he character the King, but as a broad figure of
+scandalous inclinations, or contriv’d unto such irregularities, as
+renders him rather the property of Parasites and Vice, than suitable to
+the accomplishment of so excellent a Prince? Nay, he forces on King
+<i>David</i> such a Royal resemblance, that he darkens
+<span class = "facpage">56</span>
+his sanctity in spite of illuminations from Holy Writ.</p>
+
+<p>
+Next (to take as near our King as he could) he calumniates the Duke of
+<i>Monmouth</i> with that height of impudence, that his Sense is far
+blacker than his Ink, exposing him to all the censures that a Murderer,
+a Traytor, or what a Subject of most ambitious evil can possibly
+comprehend: and it is some wonder, that his Lines also had not hang’d
+him on a Tree, to make the intended <i>Absalom</i> more compleat.</p>
+
+<p>
+As to my Lord <i>Shaftsbury</i> (in his collusive <i>Achitophel</i>),
+what does he other than exceed Malice it self? or that the more prudent
+deserts of that Peer were to be so impeach’d before hand by his
+impious Poem, as that he might be granted more emphatically condign of
+the Hangman’s Ax; And which his Muse does in effect take upon her to
+hasten.</p>
+
+<p>
+And if the season be well observ’d, when this Adulterate Poem was
+spread, it will be found purposely divulg’d near the time when this
+Lord, with his other Noble Partner, were to be brought to their Tryals.
+And I suppose this Poet thought himself enough assur’d of their
+condemnation; at least, that his <i>Genius</i> had not otherwise
+ventur’d to have trampled on persons of such eminent Abilities, and
+Interest in the Nation. A consideration, I confess, incited my Pen (its
+preceding respect being paid to the Duke of <i>Monmouth</i>) to
+vindicate their Reputations where I thought it due.</p>
+
+<p>
+<span class = "facpage">57</span>
+And some are not a little mistaken in their judgments of persons, if any
+Kingdom has at this time Two men of their Dignity, of more extraordinary
+Understandings: Which may (if&nbsp;well consider’d) be some inducement
+to their future preservation and esteem. As I have endeavour’d chiefly
+to clear their abuse, so I have pass’d divers considerable persons,
+under as malign inclinations of this Author’s; conceiving, that what I
+have said for the Principals, may remove such smaller prejudices as are
+on the value of others on the same concern.</p>
+
+<p>
+His most select and pecuniary Favourites, I have but barely touch’d,
+in respect his praise includes a concomitant reprehension, if well
+apprehended. Besides, I was unwilling to discourage any, that for the
+future may desire to be admir’d by him according to their liberality.
+A method, that perhaps may in time set up some Merchants of
+<i>Parnassus</i>, where the <i>Indies</i> of Fame seem lately
+discover’d, and may be purchas’d <i>per Centum</i>, according to
+modern example.</p>
+
+<p>
+As to the Character of <i>Amiel</i>, I confess my Lines are something
+pointed, the one reason being, that it alludes much to a manner of
+expression of this Writer’s, as may be seen by the marginal Notes; and
+a second will be soon allowed. The figure of <i>Amiel</i> has been so
+squeez’d into Paint, that his soul is seen in spite of the
+Varnish.</p>
+
+<p>
+And none will deny, but it is as easie to send Truth backward, as it is
+to spur Falsities egregiously forward, and might have caus’d any Asse,
+as knowing as <i>Balaam</i>’s, to have rebuk’d such a Poet as will
+needs
+<span class = "facpage">58</span>
+prophecy against the sense of Heaven and Men. But I have enough of this
+<i>Amiell</i>, as well as of his Muse, unless that by his means it
+occasions a further account. And for what is mine here, It will at worst
+contract censure, in respect it is a brief reflection on a very large
+Libel. And tho’ I believe it did not cost (tho’ that be not
+offer’d for an excuse) the tenth part of the time of the other. As to
+my Preface, I was willing that he should find, that this smaller work
+has some Nose.&mdash;Tho’ I am no more bound to have my Face known by
+it, than he is willing to obscure his by a Nameless Preamble.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<span class = "facpage">59</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">(1)</span>
+<span class = "folionum">C</span>
+<h3 class = "section"><a name = "reflec_text">Poetical
+Reflections</a></h3>
+
+<h5 class = "extended nospace">ON A LATE</h5>
+
+<h1 class = "extended nospace">POEM</h1>
+
+<h6 class = "extended nospace">CALLED,</h6>
+
+<h3 class = "nospace"><b>Absalom and Achitophel.</b></h3>
+
+<p class = "verse inline">
+<span class = "firstletter three">W</span><span class =
+"secondletter">h</span>en late Protectorship was Canon-Proof,<br>
+And <i>Cap-a-pe</i> had seiz’d on <i>Whitehall</i>-Roof,<br>
+And next, on <i>Israelites</i> durst look so big,<br>
+That <i>Tory-like</i>, it lov’d not much the <i>Whigg</i>:<br>
+A Poet there starts up, of wondrous Fame;<br>
+Whether <i>Scribe</i> or <i>Pharisee</i>, his Race doth name,<br>
+Or more t’intrigue the Metaphor of Man,<br>
+<span class = "sidenote">
+A Committee-Man.
+</span>
+Got on a Muse by <i>Father-Publican</i>:<br>
+For ’tis not harder much, if we tax Nature,<br>
+That Lines should give a Poet such a Feature;<br>
+<span class = "sidenote">
+<i>Sir Denzill Hollis</i> seeks <i>annum mirabilis</i>.
+</span>
+Than that his Verse a <i>Hero</i> should us show,<br>
+Produc’d by such a Feat, as famous too.<br>
+His Mingle such, what Man presumes to think,<br>
+But he can Figures daub with Pen and Ink.<br>
+A Grace our mighty <i>Nimrod</i> late beheld,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">60</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">(2)</span>
+When he within the Royal Palace dwell’d,<br>
+And saw ’twas of import if Lines could bring<br>
+<span class = "sidenote">
+See his Poem on <i>Cromwel</i>.
+</span>
+His Greatness from <i>Usurper</i>, to be King:<br>
+Or varnish so his Praise, that little odds<br>
+Should seem ’twixt him, and such called Earthly Gods.<br>
+And tho no Wit can Royal Blood infuse,<br>
+No more than melt a Mother to a Muse:<br>
+Yet much a certain Poet undertook,<br>
+That Men and Manners deals in without-Book.<br>
+And might not more to Gospel-Truth belong,<br>
+Than he (if Christened) does by name of <i>John.</i><br>
+This Poet, who that time much squanderd thought,<br>
+Of which some might bring Coyn, whilst some none brought,<br>
+As Men that hold their Brains of powerful sense,<br>
+Will least on Poet’s Tales bestow their pence,<br>
+Tho he such Dispensations to endear,<br>
+Had notch’d his Sconce just level with his Ear.<br>
+An Emblem in these days of much import,<br>
+When Crop-ear’d Wits had such a Modish Court.<br>
+Tho some from after-deeds much fear the Fate,<br>
+That such a Muse may for its Lugs create.<br>
+As Stars may without Pillories dispence,<br>
+To slit some Ears for Forgeries of sense,<br>
+Which Princes, Nobles, and the Fame of Men,<br>
+Sought to bespatter by a worthless Pen.<br>
+But leaving this to Circumstances fit,<br>
+With what thence spreads this Renegado-wit.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+We’ll tell you how his Court he now doth make,<br>
+And what choice Things and Persons he doth take,<br>
+That Lines for Guinnys might more liquorish speak.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+<span class = "facpage">61</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">(3)</span>
+To heigten which we’ll to his Muse advance,<br>
+Which late discover’d its <i>Judaick</i> Trance:<br>
+Where <i>Absalon</i>’s in <i>English</i> Colours di’d,<br>
+That in a Duke, a Traitor might be spi’d.<br>
+Or Heaven on him did Graces so bestow,<br>
+As only could confer their Pageant Show;<br>
+Giving his Glories no more fast Renown,<br>
+Than with more Honour to be taken down:<br>
+Like Victimes by some Sacrificers drest,<br>
+Must fall adorn’d, which then they pity least.<br>
+But fear not <i>Monmouth</i>, if a Libel’s quill,<br>
+Would dregs of Venom on thy Vertue spill;<br>
+Since no desert so smoothly is convey’d,<br>
+As next it’s Fame, no canker’d Patch is laid;<br>
+Thou didst no Honour seek, but what’s thy due,<br>
+And such Heaven bids thee not <ins class = "mycorr" title =
+"text reads ‘relinqnish’">relinquish</ins> too.<br>
+Whilst it’s Impressions so oblig’d thy Task,<br>
+As leave from Earth thy Soul declin’d to ask.<br>
+If this thy Error were, what Influ’nce can<br>
+Excuse the Duty of more wilfull Man;<br>
+With such whose Figures shew that squinting Paint,<br>
+Whence peeps a Mungril <i>Babylonish Saint</i>.<br>
+Thy Soul’s Religion’s Prop, and Native Grace,<br>
+<i>Rome</i>, (fears its onsets) looking on the place;<br>
+What Altitude can more exalt thy Praise,<br>
+Tho best Devotion should thy Trophies raise,<br>
+And ’tis perhaps from thy Diviner Bliss,<br>
+That some may fear their Souls are seen amiss.<br>
+As what so high does Emulation mount,<br>
+As Greatness when surpass’d on Heaven’s Account;<br>
+<span class = "facpage">62</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">(4)</span>
+And if th’ Ambition would in this excel,<br>
+’Twas but to be more great in doing well;<br>
+And must rebate the worst that Fates intend,<br>
+Whilst Heaven and <i>England</i> is at once thy Friend.<br>
+This just <i>Encomium</i>, tho too brief it be<br>
+To represent thy least Epitome;<br>
+And but unto thy larger Figure joyn’d,<br>
+As small proportions are from great design’d;<br>
+Tho where a line one worth of thine can speak,<br>
+It does alone, a Poem’s Greatness make;<br>
+Leaving this <i>Hero</i> to his spotless Fame,<br>
+(As who besides this Wretch will it blaspheme)<br>
+Or in a Libels Allegorick Way,<br>
+Men falsely figur’d, to the world convey,<br>
+Libels the enormous Forgery of sense,<br>
+Stamp’d on the brow of human Impudence;<br>
+The blackest wound of Merit, and the Dart,<br>
+That secret Envy points against Desert.<br>
+The lust of Hatred pander’d to the Eye<br>
+T’allure the World’s debauching by a Lie.<br>
+Th’rancrous Favourite’s masquerading Guilt,<br>
+Imbitt’ring venom where he’d have it spilt.<br>
+The Courts depression in a fulsom Praise;<br>
+A Test it’s <i>Ignoramus</i> worst conveys,<br>
+A lump of Falshood’s Malice does disperse,<br>
+Or Toad when crawling on the Feet of Verse.<br>
+Fame’s impious Hireling and mean Reward,<br>
+The Knave that in his Lines turns up his Card,<br>
+Who, tho no Rabby, thought in Hebrew wit,<br>
+He forc’d Allusions can closly fit.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">63</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">(5)</span>
+<span class = "folionum">D</span>
+To <i>Jews</i> or <i>English</i>, much unknown before,<br>
+He made a <i>Talmud</i> on his Muses score;<br>
+Though hop’d few Criticks will its <i>Genius</i> carp,<br>
+So purely Metaphors King <i>David</i>’s Harp,<br>
+And by a soft Encomium, near at hand,<br>
+Shews <i>Bathsheba</i> Embrac’d throughout the Land.<br>
+But this Judaick Paraphrastick Sport<br>
+We’ll leave unto the ridling Smile of Court.<br>
+Good Heav’n! What timeful Pains can Rhymers take,<br>
+When they’d for Crowds of Men much Pen-plot make?<br>
+Which long-Beak’d Tales and filch’d Allusions brings,<br>
+As much like Truth, as ’tis the Woodcock sings.<br>
+What else could move this Poet to purloin<br>
+So many <i>Jews</i>, to please the <i>English</i> Swine?<br>
+Or was it that his Brains might next dispense<br>
+To adapt himself a Royal Evidence?<br>
+Or that he’d find for <i>Dugdale</i>’s Wash some Spell,<br>
+In stead of once more dipp’d in <i>Winifred</i>’s Well;<br>
+And ope his Budget, like <i>Pandora</i>’s Box,<br>
+Whence Overt-acts more <i>Protestants</i> should Pox,<br>
+Which might the Joyner’s Ghost provoke to rise,<br>
+And fright such Tales with other <i>Popish</i> Lies?<br>
+But <i>Starr’s</i> or <i>Ignoramus</i>’s may not give<br>
+Those Swearers longer swinge by Oaths to live.<br>
+A Providence much <i>English</i> Good protects,<br>
+And sends Testees to Trade for new Effects;<br>
+Which none of the Long-Robe, ’tis hop’d, can aid,<br>
+So well by Oaths the Devil’s already paid;<br>
+<span class = "facpage">64</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">(6)</span>
+And most suppose, if e’re both Plots can die,<br>
+Or eat up one anothers Perjury,<br>
+’Twou’d <i>Pluto</i> strangely pose to find a Third,<br>
+Sould he in his a <i>Popish</i> Legion Lard.<br>
+A Policy some Poems much embrace,<br>
+As is discern’d in <i>Shaftsbury</i>’s Great Case;<br>
+Where Verse so vile an Obloquy betray,<br>
+As for a Statist-<i>Jew</i> they’d him convey.<br>
+Tho hard it is to understand what Spell<br>
+Can conjure up in him <i>Achitophel</i>,<br>
+Or tax this Peer with an Abused Sense<br>
+Of his so deep and apt Intelligence:<br>
+A Promptitude by which the Nation’s shown<br>
+To be in Thought concurrent with his own.<br>
+<i>Shaftsbury</i>! A Soul that Nature did impart<br>
+To raise her Wonder in a Brain and Heart;<br>
+Or that in him produc’d, the World might know,<br>
+She others did with drooping Thought bestow.<br>
+As in Mans most perspicuous Soul, we find<br>
+The nearest Draught of her Internal Mind,<br>
+Tho it appears her highest Act of State,<br>
+When Human Conducts she does most compleat,<br>
+And place them so, for Mankinds good, that they<br>
+Are fit to Guide, where others miss their Way;<br>
+It being in Worldly Politiques less Great<br>
+To be a Law-maker, than Preserve a State.<br>
+In Publick Dangers Laws are unsecure,<br>
+As strongest Anchors can’t all Winds endure;<br>
+Though ’tis in Exigents the wisest Ease<br>
+To know who best can ply when Storms encrease;<br>
+Whilst other Prospects, by mistaking Fate,<br>
+Through wrong Preventions, more its Bad dilate.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">65</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">(7)</span>
+Whence some their Counter-Politicks extend,<br>
+To ruine such can Evils best amend.<br>
+A Thwarting <i>Genius</i>, which our Nation more<br>
+Than all its head-strong Evils does deplore;<br>
+And shews what violent Movements such inform,<br>
+That where a Calm should be, they force a Storm;<br>
+As if their Safety chiefly they must prize<br>
+In being rid of Men esteem’d more Wise.<br>
+To this Great, Little Man, we’ll T’other joyn,<br>
+Held Sufferers by one Tripartite Design.<br>
+As from a Cubick Power, or Three-fold Might,<br>
+Roots much expand, as Authors prove aright;<br>
+But of such Managements we’ll little say,<br>
+Or shamm’d Intrigues, for Fame left to convey;<br>
+Which may by peeping through a Gown-mans Sleeve,<br>
+Tell such grave Tales, Men cannot well believe:<br>
+With what for Plots and Trials has been done,<br>
+As Whores depos’d, before away they run;<br>
+All which was well discern’d by numerous Sense,<br>
+Before the Doctors py’d Intelligence,<br>
+Who, with some Motley Lawyers, took much care<br>
+To gain the <i>Caput</i> of this Knowing Peer;<br>
+When after so much Noise, and nothing prov’d,<br>
+Heaven thank’d, to Freedom he’s at last remov’d,<br>
+Leaving a Low-Bridge <i>Cerberus</i> to try<br>
+In what Clerks Pate his monstrous Fee does lie;<br>
+Or by the help of <i>Tory-Roger</i> tell<br>
+How Sacred Gain-Prerogativ’d should spell.<br>
+But these are Thoughts may fit some Pensive Skulls,<br>
+Or Men concern’d to bait their several Bulls;<br>
+<span class = "facpage">66</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">(8)</span>
+Whilst on this Peer we must some Lines bestow,<br>
+Tho more he merits than best Verse can show:<br>
+Great in his Name, but greater in his Parts,<br>
+Judgment sublim’d, with all its strong Deserts;<br>
+A Sense above Occasions quick surprize,<br>
+That he no Study needs to make him Wise,<br>
+Or labour’d Thoughts, that trains of Sinews knit,<br>
+His Judgment always twin’d unto his Wit;<br>
+That from his clear Discussions Men may know<br>
+He does to wonder other Brains out-do.<br>
+Whilst they for Notions search they can’t compact,<br>
+His <i>Genius</i> fitly stands prepar’d to act.<br>
+Admir’d of Man, that in thy Sense alone<br>
+So ready dost exalt high Reason’s Throne;<br>
+That Men abate Resentments to expect<br>
+Thou mayst rise Greater, having past Neglect.<br>
+A Sacred Method Kings receive from Heaven,<br>
+That still does Cherish, when it has Forgiven;<br>
+Which from our Princes Soul so largely flows,<br>
+That Mercy’s Channel with his Greatness goes.<br>
+No Arbitrary Whispers him can guide<br>
+To swell his Rule beyond its genuine Tide:<br>
+Whilst other Kings their rugged Scepters see<br>
+Eclips’d in his more soft Felicity;<br>
+Whose Goodness can all Stress of State remove,<br>
+So fitly own’d the Subjects Fear and Love.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+My Verse might here discharge its hasty Flight,<br>
+As Pencils that attempt Immortal Heighth<br>
+Droop in the Colours should convey its Light,<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Did not this Poet’s Lines upon me call<br>
+For some Reflexions on a Lower Fall;<br>
+<span class = "facpage">67</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">(9)</span>
+<span class = "folionum">E</span>
+Where he by Rhyming, a <i>Judaick</i> Sham,<br>
+Obtrudes for <i>Israelites</i> some Seeds of <i>Cham</i>.<br>
+And this Inspexion needs no further go<br>
+Than where his Pen does most Indulgent show:<br>
+And ’tis no wonder if his <i>Types</i> of Sense<br>
+Should stroke such <i>Figures</i> as give down their Pence;<br>
+A Crime for which some Poets Lines so stretch,<br>
+As on themselves they Metaphor <i>Jack Ketch</i>.<br>
+Tho small the Varnish is to Humane Name,<br>
+Where Cogging Measures rob the truth of Fame.<br>
+And more to do his skew’d <i>Encomiums</i> right,<br>
+Some Persons speak by him their motly Sight:<br>
+Or much like <i>Hudibras</i>, on Wits pretence,<br>
+Some Lines for Rhyme, and some to gingle Sense.<br>
+Who else would <i>Adriel</i>, <i>Jotham</i>, <i>Hushai</i>, fit,<br>
+With loathed <i>Amiell</i>, for a Court of Wit?<br>
+For, as Men Squares of Circles hardly find,<br>
+Some think these Measures are as odly joyn’d.<br>
+What else could <i>Adriell</i>’s sharpness more abuse,<br>
+Than headlong dubb’d, to own himself a Muse,<br>
+Unless to spread Poetick Honours so<br>
+As should a Muse give each St. <i>George</i>’s Show?<br>
+A Mode of Glory might <i>Parnassus</i> fit,<br>
+Tho our Sage Prince knows few he’d Knight for Wit.<br>
+And thus this Freak is left upon the File,<br>
+Or as ’tis written in this Poet’s Stile.<br>
+Next, as in Course, to <i>Jotham</i> we’ll descend,<br>
+Thoughtful it seems which Side he’ll next befriend,<br>
+As thinking Brains can caper to and fro,<br>
+Before they jump into the Box they’d go.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">68</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">(10)</span>
+And ’tis a moody Age, as many guess,<br>
+When some with busie Fears still forward press;<br>
+As ’tis Ambitions oft-deluding Cheat<br>
+To tempt Mens aims, secureless of defeat.<br>
+<i>Hushai</i> the Compass of th’<i>Exchequer</i> guides,<br>
+Propense enough unto the North besides:<br>
+As what can steady Stations more allure,<br>
+Than such, a Princely Bed does first secure?<br>
+Whose Part none are so ignorant to ask,<br>
+And does no less employ his Ends and Task.<br>
+But quitting these, we must for Prospect pass<br>
+To gaping <i>Amiell</i>, as reflects our Glass.<br>
+<span class = "sidenote">
+* <i>See his</i>, p. 27.
+</span>
+The <i>Him</i> indeed of his own *Western Dome,<br>
+So near his praiseful Poet Sense may come:<br>
+<span class = "sidenote">
+* <i>See his</i>, p. 28.
+</span>
+For *<i>Amiell</i>, <i>Amiell</i>, who cannot endite<br>
+Of his <i>Thin</i> Value won’t disdain to write?<br>
+The very <i>Him</i> with Gown and Mace did rule<br>
+The <i>Sanedrim</i>, when guided by a Fool.<br>
+The <i>Him</i> that did both Sense and Reason shift,<br>
+That he to gainful Place himself might lift.<br>
+The very <i>Him</i> that did adjust the Seed<br>
+Of such as did their Votes for Money breed.<br>
+The Mighty <i>Him</i> that frothy Notions vents,<br>
+In hope to turn them into Presidents.<br>
+The <i>Him</i> of <i>Hims</i>, although in Judgment small,<br>
+That fain would be the biggest at <i>Whitehall</i>.<br>
+The He that does for Justice Coin postpone,<br>
+As on Account may be hereafter shown.<br>
+If this plain <i>English</i> be, ’tis far from Trick,<br>
+Though some Lines gall, where others fawning lick;<br>
+Which fits thy Poet, <i>Amiell</i>, for thy Smiles,<br>
+If once more paid to blaze thy hated Toils.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">69</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">(11)</span>
+Of Things and Persons might be added more,<br>
+Without Intelligence from Forreign Shore,<br>
+Or what Designs Ambassadors contrive,<br>
+Or how the Faithless <i>French</i> their Compass guide:<br>
+But Lines the busie World too much supply,<br>
+Besides th’Effects of evil Poetry,<br>
+Which much to <i>Tory</i>-Writers some ascribe,<br>
+Though hop’d no Furies of the <i>Whiggish</i> Tribe<br>
+Will on their Backs such Lines or Shapes convey,<br>
+To burn with Pope, on Great <i>November</i>’s Day.</p>
+
+<hr>
+
+<h4 class = "ital section extended">FINIS.</h4>
+
+<hr class = "section">
+
+<table class = "outline">
+<tr>
+<td class = "lines">
+
+<span class = "facpage">71</span>
+
+<h2 class = "extended nospace"><a name = "azaria">AZARIA</a></h2>
+
+<h4 class = "extended nospace">AND</h4>
+
+<h2 class = "nospace">HUSHAI,</h2>
+
+<h4>A</h4>
+
+<h1 class = "super nospace"><span class = "expanded">POE</span>M.</h1>
+
+<hr class = "full">
+
+<h5 class = "ital">Quod cuique visum est sentiant.</h5>
+
+<hr class = "full">
+
+<h4 class = "ital extended">LONDON,</h4>
+
+<h4>Printed for <i>Charles Lee</i>,<br>
+<span class = "smallcaps">An. Dom. 1682.</span></h4>
+
+</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+
+
+<span class = "facpage">73</span>
+<h5 class = "chapter"><a name = "azaria_intro">TO THE</a></h5>
+
+<h2 class = "extended">READER.</h2>
+
+<p class = "italic">
+<span class = "firstletter four">I</span>
+Shall not go about, either to excuse, or justifie the Publishing of this
+Poem; for that would be much more an harder Task than the Writing of it:
+But however, I shall say, in the words of the Author of the incomparable
+<em>Absalom</em> and <em>Achitophel</em>, <em>That I am sure the Design
+is honest</em>. If Wit and Fool be the Consequence of <em>Whig</em> and
+<em>Tory</em>, no doubt, but Knave and Ass may be Epithets plentifully
+bestowed upon me by the one party, whilst the other may grant me more
+favourable ones, than perhaps I do deserve. But as very few are Judges
+of Wit, so I think, much fewer of honesty; since Interest and Faction on
+either side, prejudices and blinds the Judgment; and the violence of
+Passion makes neither discernible in an Adversary. I know not whether my
+Poem has a <em>Genius</em> to force its way against prejudice: Opinion
+sways much in the World, and he that has once gained it writes securely.
+I speak not this any ways to lessen the merits of an Author, whose Wit
+has deservedly gained the <ins class = "mycorr" title =
+"unclear">Bays</ins>; but in this I have the advantage, since, as I
+desire not Glory or vain applause, I can securely wrap my self in my own
+Cloud, and remain unknown, whilest he is exposed through his great
+Lustre. I shall never envy what I desire not, nor am I altogether so
+doting, as to believe the Issues of my own Brain to exceed all others,
+and to be so very fond of them, (as&nbsp;most Authors, especially Poets,
+are) as to think them without fault, or be so blinded as not to see
+their blemishes, and that they are excelled by others; yet since Poems
+are like Children, it may be allowed me to be naturally inclined to have
+some good Opinion of my own, and not to believe this Poem altogether
+despicable or ridiculous. The Ancients say, that every thing hath two
+handles, I have laid hold of that opposite to the Author of
+<em>Absalom</em>: As to Truth, who has the better hold, let the World
+judge; and it is no new thing, for the same Persons, to be ill or well
+<span class = "facpage">74</span>
+represented, by several parties. I hope then, I may be excused as well
+as another, since I have told my Dreams with the same Liberty, for the
+fancies of Poets are no more than waking Dreams, and never imposed as
+dogmatical precepts, which are more agreeable to truth or falshood, or
+according to the Poets Language, which proceed from the Horny or Ivory
+<ins class = "mycorr" title = "so in original: ‘Part’?">Port</ins>,
+will be sentenced according to the Humour and Interest of several
+Parties who in spite of our Teeth will be our judges. Where I have been
+satyrical, ’tis without Malice or Revenge; and though I brag not of my
+Talent therein, I could have said much worse, of some Enemies to our
+<em>Jewish</em> Heroe. He that will lash others, ought not to be angry
+if the like be returned to himself: <em>Lex talionis</em> is a general
+and natural Law. I call not this an Answer to <em>Absalom</em>, I have
+nothing to do with him, he was a Rebel to his Father; my <em>Azaria</em>
+a good Son, influenced by a worthy and Loyal Counsellor, and
+<em>Achitophel</em> and <em>Hushai</em> were men of contrary Opinions,
+and different Principles: And if Poets (as&nbsp;it is often brought for
+their excuse, when they vary from known History) ought to represent
+Persons as they ought to be, I have not transcurred the Precepts of
+Poetry, and <em>Absalom</em> is not so good a Poem, because his
+Character is not so agreeable to the virtue of an Heroe, as this of
+<em>Azaria</em> is: But certainly when Poetry and Truth are joyned
+together, and that the persons are truly what they are represented, and
+liv’d their Character, the glory is double, both to the Heroe and the
+Poet: And I could wish, that the same Hand, that drew the Rebellious
+Son, with so much Ingenuity and Skill, would out do mine, in shewing the
+virtues of an obedient Son and loyal Counsellor, since he may have as
+much Truth for a Foundation to build upon, the Artful Structure of the
+Heroes Glory, with his own Fame and Immortality.</p>
+
+<span class = "facpage">75</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[1]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">B</span>
+
+<hr class = "chapter">
+<hr>
+
+<h2 class = "expanded nospace"><a name = "azaria_text">AZARIA</a></h2>
+
+<h4 class = "extended nospace">AND</h4>
+
+<h1 class = "nospace"><span class = "extended">HUSHA</span>I,</h1>
+
+<hr>
+
+<h4 class = "nospace"><span class = "expanded">A POE</span>M.</h4>
+
+<hr>
+
+<p class = "verse inline">
+<span class = "firstletter four">I</span><span class =
+"secondletter">n</span>
+Impious Times, when Priest-craft was at height,<br>
+And all the Deadly Sins esteemed light;<br>
+When that Religion only was a Stale,<br>
+And some bow’d down to God, and some to <i>Baal</i>;<br>
+When Perjury was scarce esteem’d a Sin,<br>
+And Vice, like flowing Tides, came rowling in;<br>
+When Luxury, Debauch, and Concubine,<br>
+The sad Effects of Women and of Wine,<br>
+Rag’d in <i>Judea</i> and <i>Jerusalem</i>,<br>
+Good <i>Amazia</i> of great <i>David</i>’s Stem,<br>
+God-like and great in Peace did rule that Land,<br>
+And all the <i>Jews</i> stoop’d to his just Command.<br>
+Long now in <i>Sion</i> had he Peace enjoy’d,<br>
+After that Civil Broils the Land destroy’d:<br>
+Plenty and Peace attended on his Reign,<br>
+And <i>Solomon</i>’s Golden days return’d again;<br>
+When the Old <i>Canaanites</i>, who there did lurk,<br>
+Began to find both God and King new Work:<br>
+For <i>Amazia</i>, tho’ he God did love,<br>
+Had not cast out <i>Baal</i>’s Priests, and cut down every Grove.<br>
+Too oft Religion’s made pretence for Sin,<br>
+About it in all Ages Strife has been;<br>
+<span class = "facpage">76</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[2]</span>
+But Int’rest, which at bottom doth remain,<br>
+Which still converts all Godliness to Gain,<br>
+What e’er Pretence is made, is the true Cause,<br>
+That moves the Priest, and like the Load-stone draws.<br>
+The <i>Canaanites</i> of Old that Land possess’d,<br>
+And long therein Idolatry profess’d;<br>
+Till Sins of Priests, and of the Common Rout,<br>
+Caus’d God and his good Kings to cast them out.<br>
+Their Idols were pull’d down, their Groves destroy’d,<br>
+Strict Laws against them, and their Worship made.<br>
+The Heathen Priests were banish’d from the Land<br>
+Of <i>Baal</i>, no Temple suffer’d was to stand;<br>
+And all Succeeding Kings made it their Care,<br>
+They should no more rear up their Altars there.<br>
+If some mild Kings did wink at their Abode,<br>
+They to the <i>Jews</i> still prov’d a Pricking-goad:<br>
+Growing more bold, they penal Laws defy’d,<br>
+And like tormenting Thorns, stuck in their Side.<br>
+The busy Priests had lost their gainful Trade,<br>
+Revenge and Malice do then Hearts invade;<br>
+And since by Force they can’t themselves restore,<br>
+Nor gain the Sway they in <i>Judea</i> bore,<br>
+With Hell they Joyn their secret Plots to bring<br>
+Destruction to <i>Judea</i> and its King.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+The <i>Chemerarims</i>, the learnedst Priests, of all<br>
+The numerous Swarms which did belong to <i>Baal</i>,<br>
+Bred up in subtil Arts, to <i>Jews</i> well known,<br>
+And fear’d for Bloody Morals of their own;<br>
+Who in the Cause of <i>Baal</i> no one would spare,<br>
+But for his sake on all Mankind make War,<br>
+Counting it lawful Sacred Kings to smite,<br>
+Who favor’d not their God, or was no <i>Baalite</i>,<br>
+These were the Idol’s known, and great Support,<br>
+Who in Disguise creep into every Court,<br>
+Where they soon Faction raise, and by their Arts,<br>
+Insinuate into the Princes Hearts:<br>
+Wriggle themselves into Intreagues of State,<br>
+Sweet Peace destroy, and Bloody Wars create.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">77</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[3]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">B2</span>
+Unwearied still, they deep Designs pursue;<br>
+What can’t a <i>Chemarim</i>, and <i>Belzeebub</i> do?<br>
+For cunning Plot, Trepan, for Oaths and Sham,<br>
+The Devil must give place to <i>Chemarim</i>.<br>
+These subtil Priests, in Habit black and grave;<br>
+Each man a Saint in shew, in Heart a Knave,<br>
+Did in <i>Judea</i> swarm, grew great withall,<br>
+And like th’ <i>Egyptian Frogs</i> to Court they crawl:<br>
+Where, like them too, they never are at rest;<br>
+But Bed and Board of Kings, with Filth infest.<br>
+To every Shape they could themselves transform,<br>
+Angels could seem, but still their Aim was Harm.<br>
+They all the Sects among the <i>Jews</i> could ape,<br>
+And went about disguiss’d in every Shape.<br>
+One imitates the <i>Zealous Pharisee,</i><br>
+The <i>Essens</i> this, the dammee <i>Sadduce</i> he;<br>
+And such their ready, and their subtil Wit,<br>
+For every Trade, and every Science fit:<br>
+They Credit got, and stole into the Heart,<br>
+And from their God, did many Souls pervert,<br>
+Who seeming <i>Jews</i>, or what they were before,<br>
+In Secret did the Idol <i>Baal</i> adore;<br>
+Whole false Religion was but loose, and few<br>
+Could bear the Righteous Strictness of the true.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Thus these Disciples of the hellish Brood,<br>
+Disguis’d, among the <i>Jews</i>, themselves intrude,<br>
+And with the purer Wheat, their Tares they sow,<br>
+Saw their bad Crop near to an Harvest grow,<br>
+And hop’d that they again should rule the State:<br>
+For e’er the days of good <i>Jehosaphat</i>,<br>
+Through all the Land <i>Baal</i>’s Worship was allow’d,<br>
+And King and People to gross Idols bow’d.<br>
+The Priests, like Bloody Tyrants did command;<br>
+They and their Gods, did wholly rule the Land;<br>
+And every one who would not bow to <i>Baal</i>,<br>
+Fled thence, or else by Fire, or Sword did fall:<br>
+But that good King a Reformation made,<br>
+Their Idols, and their Groves he quite destroy’d;<br>
+In every place their Altars overthrew,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">78</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[4]</span>
+And <i>Chemarims</i> he banished or slew.<br>
+Since when (except in <i>Athaliah</i>’s Reign,<br>
+Who for a space, set Idols up again,<br>
+Tormenting those to Death who would not turn,<br>
+And did the <i>Jewish Rabbins</i> slay or burn)<br>
+These crafty Priests, by Plots did never cease,<br>
+To spoil the Beauty of <i>Judea’s</i> Peace.<br>
+Whilst <i>Joash</i> reign’d, by sly and subtil Arts,<br>
+They first estrang’d from him his Peoples Hearts.<br>
+Saw Faction’s Sparks, and unseen blew the Fire,<br>
+Till Rebells ’gainst that good King did conspire:<br>
+Then Cursed <i>Zabed</i> of proud <i>Ammon</i>’s Line,<br>
+And <i>Moabitish Jehozabad</i> joyn,<br>
+And to their Side some <i>Pharisees</i> they drew,<br>
+(<i>Joash</i> did to their Sect no Favor shew)<br>
+And th’ <i>Essens</i>, who then daily numerous grew,<br>
+Rebell, and their good King, like Murtherers, slew.<br>
+Then <i>Amazia</i> over <i>Jordan</i> fled,<br>
+Till God had struck the Tyrant <i>Zabed</i> dead;<br>
+When all his Subjects, who his Fate did moan,<br>
+With joyful Hearts, restor’d him to his Throne;<br>
+Who then his Father’s Murtherers destroy’d,<br>
+And a long, happy, peaceful Reign enjoy’d.<br>
+Belov’d of all, for merciful was He,<br>
+Like God, in the Superlative Degree.<br>
+The <i>Jewish</i> Sects he did not seek to quell,<br>
+Yet Laws he made they might no more rebell:<br>
+Wisely about them made of Laws a Fence,<br>
+Yet kind, would not oppress their Conscience.<br>
+The <i>Pharisee</i>, a very numerous Sect,<br>
+Above the rest were in their Worship strict:<br>
+In their own <i>Synagogues</i> he let them pray,<br>
+And worship God after their stricter way.<br>
+In Peace all liv’d, and former strife forgot,<br>
+The <i>Chemarims</i> and Hell had hatch’d a Plot:<br>
+A Plot form’d in the deep Abyss below,<br>
+Law and Religion both to overthrow.<br>
+The King was by their Bloody Swords to fall,<br>
+That all <i>Judea</i> might submit <i>to Baal</i>.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">79</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[5]</span>
+Great were their Hopes, and deep was their Design.<br>
+The Train already laid to spring their Mine;<br>
+Not dreaming Heav’n could their Plots betray,<br>
+They only waited an auspicious day.<br>
+Nor fail’d their Plot for want of Common Sence,<br>
+As some endeavor’d to persuade the Prince:<br>
+For with much Art, great Industry and Care,<br>
+They all things for their black Design prepare.<br>
+Not hatch’d by Common Brains, or men of Earth,<br>
+Nor was’t the Issue of a suddain Birth;<br>
+But long designing, and well laid it seems,<br>
+By <i>Baal</i>’s <i>Arch-priests</i>, and subtil <i>Chemarins</i>.<br>
+
+The <i>Canaanites</i> dispersed through the Land,<br>
+O’er whom <i>Baal</i>’s Priests had absolute Command,<br>
+Were bound with Oaths, the Priests Religious Charms,<br>
+To Secresie, and furnished with Arms.<br>
+Heads they had got, as well as Hands to fight,<br>
+Some zealous Princes of the <i>Canaanites</i>,<br>
+Who ready were to guide the Common Rout,<br>
+So soon as their Conspiracy broke out.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+<i>Ægypt</i> of Warlike <i>Jews</i> was still afraid,<br>
+Lest as of Old, they should that Land invade,<br>
+To further this Design had promis’d Aid.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Thus on a firm Foundation they had wrought<br>
+Their great Design, well built to Humane thought:<br>
+Tho’ nothing that weak Mortals e’er design’d,<br>
+But Folly seems to the Eternal Mind,<br>
+Who blasting man’s vain Projects, lets him know,<br>
+He sits above, sees and rules all below.<br>
+This wicked Plot, the Nations Bain and Curse,<br>
+So bad no man can represent it worse:<br>
+Want only <i>Amazia</i> to destroy,<br>
+But that they might the Rites of <i>Baal</i> enjoy:<br>
+For the good <i>Amazia</i> being gone,<br>
+They had design’d a <i>Baalite</i> for the Throne.<br>
+Of all their Hopes and Plots, here lay the Store:<br>
+For what Encouragement could they have more,<br>
+When they beheld the King’s own Brother fall,<br>
+From his Religion, and to worship <i>Baal</i>?<br>
+<span class = "facpage">80</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[6]</span>
+The Priest well knew what Pow’r, and what Controul<br>
+He had usurp’d o’re ev’ry <i>Baalite</i>’s Soul,<br>
+That such a Prince must their God’s Cause pursue,<br>
+And do whatever they would have him do;<br>
+Else from his Throne he should be curs’d and damn’d:<br>
+For <i>Baal</i>’s High-Priest, a Right t’ all Crowns had
+claim’d.<br>
+An Article ’tis of a <i>Baalite</i>’s Faith,<br>
+That o’re Crown’d Heads a Sovereignty he hath.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Thus on a sure Foundation, as they thought,<br>
+They had their Structure to Perfection wrought</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+When God, who shews regard to Sacred Kings,<br>
+The Plot and Plotters to Confusion brings,<br>
+And in a moment down their <i>Babel</i> flings.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+A <i>Levite</i>, who had <i>Baalite</i> turn’d, and bin<br>
+One of the Order of the <i>Chemarim</i>,<br>
+Who in the Plot had deeply been concern’d,<br>
+And all their horrid Practices had learn’d;<br>
+Smote in his Conscience with a true Remorse,<br>
+From King and Land diverts the threat’ning Curse.<br>
+<i>Libni</i>, I think they call’d the <i>Levite</i>’s Name,<br>
+Which in <i>Judea</i> still will be of Fame;<br>
+Since following Heaven’s Impulse and high Command,<br>
+He prov’d a Glorious Saviour of the Land.<br>
+By him the deep Conspiracy’s o’rethrown,<br>
+The Treason, and the Traytors all made known:<br>
+For which from <i>Baalites</i> he had Curses store;<br>
+But by the <i>Jews</i> loaded with Blessings more.<br>
+The Hellish Plotters were then seiz’d upon,<br>
+And into Goals and Iron Fetters thrown;<br>
+From whence to Lawful Tryals they were born,<br>
+Condemn’d for Traytors, and hang’d up with Scorn:<br>
+Yet <i>Chemarims</i> with matchless Impudence,<br>
+With dying Breath avow’d their Innocence:<br>
+So careful of their Order they still were,<br>
+Lest Treason in them Scandal should appear,<br>
+That Treason they with Perjury pursue,<br>
+Having their Arch-priest’s Licence so to do.<br>
+They fear’d not to go perjur’d to the Grave,<br>
+Believing their Arch-priest their Souls could save:<br>
+<span class = "facpage">81</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[7]</span>
+For all God’s Power they do on him bestow,<br>
+And call him their Almighty God below.<br>
+To whom they say three powerful Keys are given,<br>
+Of Hell, of Purgatory, and of Heav’n.<br>
+No wonder then if <i>Baalites</i> this believe,<br>
+They should, with their false Oaths try to deceive,<br>
+And gull the People with their Dying Breath,<br>
+Denying all their Treason at their Death.<br>
+This made Impression on some easie Minds,<br>
+Whom or good Nature, or false Pity blinds;<br>
+Mov’d their Compassion, and stirr’d up their Grief,<br>
+And of their dying Oaths caus’d a Belief.<br>
+This did effect what the curs’d Traytors sought,<br>
+The Plots Belief into Discredit brought,<br>
+Of it at first, some Doubts they only rais’d,<br>
+And with their Impudence the World amaz’d:<br>
+Tho’ <i>Azyad</i>’s Murder did the <i>Jews</i> convince,<br>
+Who was a man most Loyal to his Prince,<br>
+And by the Bloody <i>Chemarims</i> did fall,<br>
+Because he seiz’d the Trayt’rous Priests of <i>Baal</i>:<br>
+Tho’ <i>Gedaliah</i>’s Letters made all plain,<br>
+Who was their Scribe, and of a ready Brain:<br>
+A <i>Levite’s</i> Son, but turn’d a <i>Baalite</i>,<br>
+Who for the King’s own Brother then did write,<br>
+And Correspondence kept i’th’ <i>Egyptian</i> Court,<br>
+To whom the Traytors for Advice resort;<br>
+Who like a zealous, trayt’rous <i>Baalite</i> dy’d,<br>
+And at the Fatal Tree the Plot deny’d.<br>
+Tho’ <i>Amazia</i> did at first believe,<br>
+And to the Hellish Plot did Credit give;<br>
+Tho’ the Great Council of the <i>Sanhedrim</i>,<br>
+Among the <i>Jews</i> always of great Esteem,<br>
+Declar’d to all the World this Plot to be,<br>
+An Hellish, and a curs’d Conspiracy,<br>
+To kill the King, Religion to o’rethrow,<br>
+And cause the <i>Jews</i> their Righteous Laws forgoe;<br>
+To make the People to dumb Idols fall,<br>
+And in the place of God, to set up <i>Baal</i>:<br>
+Tho’ all the People saw it, and believ’d;<br>
+Tho’ Courts of Justice, hard to be deceiv’d,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">82</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[8]</span>
+Had added to the rest their Evidence,<br>
+Yet with a strange unheard of Impudence,</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+The <i>Baalites</i> all so stoutly had deny’d<br>
+Their Hellish Plot, with Vows and Oaths beside,<br>
+And with such Diligence themselves apply’d.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+They at the last, their sought for point had got,<br>
+And artfully in doubt had brought their Plot.<br>
+A thousand cunning Shams and Tricks they us’d,<br>
+Whereby the simple Vulgar were abus’d;<br>
+And some o’th’ <i>Edomitish</i> Evidence,<br>
+Who <i>Mammon</i> worship’d, were brought off with pence.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+<i>Libni</i>, for whom, before their Harps they strung,<br>
+Who was the Subject of each <i>Hebrew</i>’s Song,<br>
+Was villify’d by every Rascall’s Tongue.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+In Secret, and inglorious did remain,<br>
+And the Plot thought the Project of his Brain.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+The <i>Baalites</i> thus encourag’d by Success,<br>
+Increase their Hopes, and their black Projects bless:<br>
+Like the bold <i>Titans</i>, Plot on Plot they lay,<br>
+And Heav’n it self with impious Arms essay.<br>
+A new Invention wrought in Hell below,<br>
+The <i>Jews</i>, and their Religion to o’erthrow;<br>
+They bring to light, with this their Hopes they raise,<br>
+And for dire Plots, think they deserve the Bays.<br>
+This Engine stronger than th’ old <i>Roman</i> Ram<br>
+For Battery, by a new name call’d Sham,<br>
+With well learn’d, and successful Arts they use<br>
+To overthrow the <i>Syn’gogues</i> of the <i>Jews</i>,<br>
+Their Worship and Religion to confound.<br>
+And lay their Glorious Temple on the Ground.<br>
+With this new Engine, they a Breach had made,<br>
+By which they hop’d the Loyal <i>Jews</i> t’ invade.<br>
+With Troops of Treasons, and Rebellious Plots,<br>
+Led on by Villains, perjur’d Rogues and Sots;<br>
+And with such Arms, in Hells black Work-house form’d,<br>
+The peaceful <i>Jews</i> they violently storm’d;<br>
+Who ’gainst the <i>Ba’lites</i> Plots had no defence,<br>
+But God, their Laws, and their own Innocence.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+<span class = "facpage">83</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[9]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">C</span>
+Among the Princes of the <i>Jewish</i> Race,<br>
+For Wisdom, <i>Hushai</i> had the Chiefest Place,<br>
+Prudent in Speech, and in his Actions close,<br>
+Admir’d by all, and feared by his Foes;<br>
+Well skill’d, and knowing in the <i>Jewish</i> Laws,<br>
+Able to plead, and to defend a Cause,<br>
+Of piercing Judgment, and of pregnant Wit,<br>
+Did once Chief Judge of all <i>Judea</i> sit;</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Was then esteem’d the Honor of the Gown,<br>
+And with his Vertues sought to serve the Crown,<br>
+Till Foes procur’d him <i>Amazia</i>’s Frown.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Then he descended from the hight of Place,<br>
+Without a Blemish, and without Disgrace;<br>
+Yet inly griev’d; for he could well divine<br>
+The Issue of the <i>Baalites</i> curs’d Design,<br>
+To see Religion, and God’s Righteous Cause,<br>
+The Ancient Government, the Nation’s Laws,<br>
+Unpropping, and all ready strait to fall,<br>
+And the whole Race of <i>Jews</i> made Slaves to <i>Baal</i>:<br>
+With Zeal inspired, boldly up he ’rose,<br>
+To wrestle with the King’s, and Nation’s Foes;<br>
+And tho’ he was with Wealth and Honor blest,<br>
+He scorn’d to give his Age its needful Rest:<br>
+He learn’d, that man was not born for himself,<br>
+To get great Titles, Names, or sordid Pelf,<br>
+To wear a lazy Life, himself to please,<br>
+With Idleness, and with luxurious Ease:<br>
+When he beheld his Country in distress,<br>
+And none the Danger able to redress,<br>
+He did resolve, tho’ not affecting Fame,<br>
+Or to obtain a Patriot’s Glorious Name,<br>
+His Rest, his Life, his Fortune to expose,<br>
+Rather than see his Countrey’s dangerous Foes<br>
+Run on uncheck’d, till they had brought the Land,<br>
+To their, and to a <i>Baalite</i> King’s Command.<br>
+He could not therefore so himself forget,<br>
+To see the Barques of Government o’erset;<br>
+But with his Skill he help’d the Boat to trim,<br>
+And boldly did oppose <i>Eliakim</i>.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">84</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[10]</span>
+<i>Eliakim</i> was Brother to the King,<br>
+From the same Loins, and Royal <i>Seed</i> did spring;</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Of Courage bold, and of a daring mind,<br>
+To whom the King, ev’n to Excess was kind;<br>
+And tho’ he had a Son, for him the Crown design’d.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Sweet <i>Azaria</i>, like the beauteous Morn,<br>
+Whence all Sweets flow, did once that Court adorn,<br>
+A budding Rose, whose Beauty’s newly blown,<br>
+Or like a Cedar on Mount <i>Lebanon</i>:<br>
+He in his Father’s Grace, and Favor grew,<br>
+And towards him the People’s Eyes he drew.<br>
+He was by most belov’d, admir’d by all,<br>
+For’s Zeal to God, and’s Hatred unto <i>Baal</i>:<br>
+But ah! this mov’d the cursed <i>Baalite</i>’s Hate,<br>
+Disturb’d his Peace, and Troubles did create.<br>
+What can’t Design and Hellish Malice do?<br>
+With Lyes they close this Noble Prince pursue.<br>
+They think his Father too indulgent grown,<br>
+Whose Love had many Blessings on him thrown,<br>
+But what exceeded all the rest beside,<br>
+He chose the sweet <i>Jerusha</i> for his Bride:<br>
+A Blessing he esteemed far above<br>
+The Crown, and all things but his Father’s Love:<br>
+For that he still above his Life did prize,<br>
+Dear as his Fame, and dearer than his Eyes.<br>
+Below his Feet, for that he all things trod,<br>
+Adoreing nothing more except his God.<br>
+Young as he was, he had acquired Fame,<br>
+His Breast infired with a Warlike Flame,<br>
+In Foreign Wars, his Courage he had shown,<br>
+Had Lawrels won, and brought home fair Renown:<br>
+Happy, most happy, till with wondrous Art,<br>
+His Foes had wrought him from his Father’s Heart;<br>
+And so much Power on <i>Amazia</i> won,<br>
+He by Degrees, grew jealous of his Son.<br>
+And who for this can <i>Amazia</i> blame,<br>
+If that the King the Father overcame?<br>
+For Crowns by Kings esteemed are more near,<br>
+Than Children, or than Sons, belov’d more dear.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">85</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[11]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">C2</span>
+His Foes, <i>Baal</i>’s Friends, had laid their artful Snairs,<br>
+Hight’ned his Father’s Jealousies and Fears,<br>
+And made each innocent Action of the Prince,<br>
+To give his Jealous Father an Offence.<br>
+If with wise <i>Hushai</i> they the Prince did see,<br>
+They call’d their Meeting a Conspiracy,<br>
+And cry, that he was going to rebell:<br>
+Him <i>Absalom</i> they name, <i>Hushai</i> <i>Achitophel</i>.<br>
+With Slander thus the Prince they did pursue,<br>
+Aiming at’s Life, and the wise <i>Hushai</i>’s too.<br>
+When they much pleased, and triumphing saw,<br>
+The King his Royal Favors to withdraw,<br>
+Which like a Spring on him before did flow,<br>
+And from him, all on others to bestow:<br>
+Defenceless left, naked, almost forlorn,<br>
+Subject to every trifling Rhimers Scorn,<br>
+And beyond <i>Jordan</i> by their malice drove,<br>
+No Succor left him but the People’s Love;<br>
+(For he was still their Darling and Delight,<br>
+Because they saw he was no <i>Baalite</i>,)<br>
+Their Hopes now almost at their Height did seem,<br>
+To place the Crown upon <i>Eliakim</i>.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+The <i>Jews</i>, God’s People and peculiar Care,<br>
+For their true Worship still most zealous were;<br>
+That Jewel seem’d most pretious in their Eyes,<br>
+And it above all Humane things they prize.<br>
+No Torments could make them their Faith deny,<br>
+They willingly for their Religion die:<br>
+Their Liberties were also dear to them,<br>
+Sprung from a free, and not a slavish Stem,<br>
+Th’ <i>Egyptian</i> Bondage for their Souls unfit,<br>
+They never in <i>Judea</i> would permit;<br>
+Their own known Laws, they willingly obey,<br>
+Hate Tyranny and Arbitrary Sway:<br>
+Nor did they many Priviledges want,<br>
+Kept from the Time they first the Land did plant;<br>
+For which to Death they lawfully would strive,<br>
+If injur’d by their King’s Prerogative:<br>
+<span class = "facpage">86</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[12]</span>
+For some of them have try’d to break the Bound,<br>
+And did like <i>Ethnick</i> Kings, their People’s Freedom wound,<br>
+So <i>Rehoboam</i> caus’d them to rebell,<br>
+And lost at once ten Tribes of <i>Israel</i>.<br>
+No people were more ready to obey<br>
+Their Kings, who rul’d them by a gentle Sway,<br>
+Who never sought their Consciences to curb,<br>
+Their Freedom or Religion to disturb.<br>
+To such they always open-hearted were,<br>
+For them, they neither Coin, nor Blood would spare.<br>
+Such Kings might their Prerogatives improve,<br>
+And rule the <i>Jews</i>, ev’n as they pleas’d with Love;</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+But stiff indeed they were, and moody grew,<br>
+When Tyrants did with cruel Stripes pursue<br>
+Them sore oppress’d, and sometimes murmur’d too.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Kings they had try’d of ev’ry sort and size.<br>
+Best govern’d by the Warlike and the wise.<br>
+Tho’ Kings they lov’d, and for them Reverence had,<br>
+They never would adore them as a God.<br>
+God’s Worship, and their Laws they did prefer,<br>
+They knew, them men might by bad Councils Err.<br>
+Tho’ Loyal, yet oppress’d, they did not fear<br>
+To make their heavy Grievances appear.<br>
+This was indeed the Humor of the <i>Jew</i>,<br>
+The People by Complaints their Griefs would shew;<br>
+And never would, in truth, contented seem,<br>
+Untill redress’d by their wise <i>Sanhedrim</i>.<br>
+Thus now the <i>Jews</i>, tho’ free from ill Design,<br>
+In their Religious Cause together joyn:<br>
+They cast their Eyes on <i>Amazia</i>’s Son,<br>
+Who, without Arts the People’s Love had won:<br>
+Full of tormenting Jealousies and Fears,<br>
+<i>Eliakim</i> a dangerous man appears:<br>
+The sober part of the whole <i>Sanhedrim</i>,<br>
+Desire to keep <i>Judea’s</i> Crown from him:<br>
+For they foresaw if he should wear the Crown,<br>
+<i>Baal</i>’s Worship he’d set up, and God’s cast down:<br>
+That all the Nations must be Slaves to <i>Baal</i>,<br>
+Suffer in Flames, fly, or ’fore Idolls fall.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">87</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[13]]</span>
+Great were their Fears, but yet they did abhor<br>
+The very Thought of a dishonest War:<br>
+For they had seen the Kingdom’s many Scarrs,<br>
+Th’ unseemly Marks of former Civil Wars.<br>
+They <i>Amazia</i> lov’d and wish’d him well,<br>
+Resolve to suffer rather than rebell;<br>
+Yet openly declare free from all Stain,<br>
+How much they hate a <i>Baalite</i> should Reign;<br>
+And for this Cause, and for this Cause alone,<br>
+<i>Eliakim</i> they’d put by from the Throne.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse"><i>Eliakim</i> at Court had many Friends,<br>
+By whom in Secret he could work his Ends;<br>
+So that no Accusation could remove<br>
+Him, deeply rooted in his Brother’s Love.<br>
+But since the <i>Jews</i> to him shew’d open Hate,<br>
+Lest that his presence should embroil the State;<br>
+And that the <i>Jews</i> might have no cause to sin,<br>
+He’s sent to rule the Tribe of <i>Benjamin</i>.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Thus two great Factions in <i>Judea</i> rose,<br>
+So hotly each the other did oppose,<br>
+<ins class = "mycorr" title = "invisible">’</ins>Twas fear’d
+they’d fall at last from Words to Blows.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Each side most zealous for the King appears,<br>
+Each full of Jealousies and disturbing Fears,<br>
+Each pleads for <i>Amazia</i> and the Laws,<br>
+God and Religion both do make their Cause:</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Both Loyalty profess, both opposite,<br>
+Both would persuade that each was in the right,<br>
+Tho’ both contrary shew as day and night.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Sweet <i>Azaria</i> with these Troubles mov’d,<br>
+On that side hated, and by this belov’d;<br>
+Fearing th’ inveterate Malice of his Foes,<br>
+Which he sought to avoid, not to oppose,</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+And lest they should their sought Occasion find,<br>
+To tax him of an ill ambitious mind,<br>
+By seeing all the <i>Jews</i> to him so kind;<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Lest he should grow i’th’ King’s Opinion worse,<br>
+He seeks for Council how to steer his Course,<br>
+That he might to the Court give no Offence,<br>
+But live wrapt up in his own fair Innocence,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">88</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[14]</span>
+The wise and thoughtful <i>Hushai</i> he doth find,<br>
+And thus to him he breaks his troubled Mind,<br>
+Great Councellor, and Favorite of Heav’n,<br>
+To whom the Blessing of true Wisdom’s giv’n,<br>
+Which by no Mortal can possessed be,<br>
+Whose Thoughts are not inform’d by Loyalty.<br>
+I know Reproaches upon you are thrown;<br>
+But judge your Innocency by my own.<br>
+I am accused Sir, as well as you,<br>
+And the same Foe doth both our Lives pursue.<br>
+He fears your Wisdom, may his <ins class = "mycorr"
+title = "text reads ‘Hndrance’">Hindrance</ins> prove,<br>
+And me, because I have the People’s Love:<br>
+His Creatures therefore throw on you and me,<br>
+The Scandal of a curs’d Conspiracy,<br>
+Against our King and Father to rebell:<br>
+Me <i>Absalom</i>, and you <i>Achitophel</i><br>
+They name; bad Councellor, and worser Son,<br>
+Who Traytors, durst into Rebellion run.<br>
+My Father governs with so equal Sway,<br>
+That all both love him, and his Laws obey:<br>
+He seems Heav’n’s Care, who set him in the Throne,<br>
+Preserved by his wondrous Power alone.<br>
+Oh may on him no Blemish fall or stain,<br>
+But all live happy in his peaceful Reign:<br>
+May he be happy still as he is good,<br>
+Like God in Mercy, not inclin’d to Blood.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+This is the Prayer that I daily make;<br>
+For Piety shall never me forsake,<br>
+Tho’ I his Royal Favor ne’er partake.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+And tho’ my Foes have with their subtil Art<br>
+Banish’d me from my Royal Father’s Heart,<br>
+Which is the Source of all my Grief and Woe,<br>
+My just Obedience I will ne’er forgoe.<br>
+Nor has Disgrace, nor my hot Passions wrought,<br>
+Within my Breast one bad disloyal Thought.<br>
+I ne’er believ’d my Father would betray<br>
+His People, or sought Arbitrary Sway:<br>
+Or tho’ his People did his Wrath provoke,<br>
+He meant to curb them with an Iron Yoak.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">89</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[15]</span>
+Yet do I think, nay more than think, the Cause<br>
+(But here his passion made some little pause,<br>
+Till sighing, at the last he thus went on)<br>
+Why my Great Father does disown his Son;<br>
+They say I am but of a spurious Brood,<br>
+My Mother being of Ignoble Blood:<br>
+For <i>Jocoliah</i> was but mean by Birth,<br>
+Tho’ with the King she mix’d her baser Earth.<br>
+I was begotten in my Father’s Flight,<br>
+E’er to the Crown he had obtain’d his Right:<br>
+And since I from his Favor did decline,<br>
+He has declar’d her but his Concubine.<br>
+This has the Hopes rais’d of <i>Eliakim</i>,<br>
+And <i>Amaziah</i>’s Crown design’d for him;<br>
+My Hopes are lost, and I do think it fit,<br>
+I should to God, Right, and the King submit;<br>
+But yet, wise <i>Hushai</i> know, I still do find,<br>
+My Birth has not so much debas’d my mind,<br>
+To make me stoop to low or mean desires;<br>
+I feel my Father’s Royal Blood inspires<br>
+My depress’d Soul, wipes off th’ ignoble Stain,<br>
+Renders me apt, or not unfit to reign.<br>
+Of <i>David</i>’s Royal Blood, my self I own,<br>
+And with it never can disgrace the Throne.<br>
+Tho’ my bold Spirits, mounting thus, do fly<br>
+Towards the Noble hight of Sovereignty,<br>
+And that I feel my Father’s Blood to rowl<br>
+Through every Vein and animate my Soul;<br>
+Yet so much Loyalty is sown within<br>
+My Breast, I would not Empire gain with Sin:<br>
+For when my ambitious Thoughts begin to roam,<br>
+Their Forces, I with that soon overcome.<br>
+Tho’ to God’s Laws, and to the King’s I yield,<br>
+To my known Foes I would not leave the Field.<br>
+I’d not be trampl’d on by sordid Feet,<br>
+Nor take Affronts from ev’ry one I meet:<br>
+I’d give no Cause they should my Courage doubt,<br>
+Nor to Rebellion push the vulgar Rout,<br>
+I to my Father would give no Offence,<br>
+Nor while he lives, lay to the Crown Pretence;<br>
+<span class = "facpage">90</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[16]</span>
+But since Life’s sweet, by Wisdom I’d keep mine,<br>
+From <i>Baalites</i> Hate, and <i>Eliakim</i>’s Design:<br>
+This my wise Friend, is my chief Business now,<br>
+To take some Sage and good Advice from you.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse"><i>Hushai</i> in Silence heard the Prince, and
+weigh’d<br>
+Each word he spake, then to him thus reply’d;</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Great Prince, th’ Almighty has to you been kind,<br>
+Stamp’d Graces on your Body and your mind,<br>
+As if he for your Head a Crown design’d.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+We shall not search into Fates Secret Womb,<br>
+God alone knows the things that are to come;<br>
+But should you never sit on <i>David</i>’s Throne,<br>
+’Tis better to deserve than wear a Crown.<br>
+Of Royal Blood, and of great Birth you are,<br>
+Born under some benign auspicious Star,<br>
+Lov’d by the best, and prais’d by every Tongue,<br>
+The glorious Subject of each worthy Song:<br>
+The young man’s Wish, Joy of each Warlike Wight,<br>
+The People’s Darling, and the World’s Delight.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+A Crowd of Vertues fill your Princely Breast,<br>
+And what appears more glorious than the rest,<br>
+You are of Truth and Loyalty possest.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+That I would cherish in you, that would raise<br>
+To an admired height, that I would chiefly praise.<br>
+Let Fools and subtil Politicians scorn<br>
+Fair Vertue, which doth best a Prince adorn:<br>
+Whilst you her bright and shining Robes put on,<br>
+You will appear more great than <i>Solomon</i>.<br>
+Let not Great Prince, the Fumes of Vulgar Praise,<br>
+Your bolder Spirits to Ambition raise.<br>
+We cannot see into the Mist of Fate,<br>
+Till time brings forth, you must expecting wait;<br>
+But Fortune, rather Providence, not Chance,<br>
+The constant, stout, and wise doth still advance.<br>
+Let your quick Eye be to her Motions ty’d;<br>
+But still let Noble Vertue be your Guide:<br>
+For when that God and Vertue points the way,<br>
+There can be then no danger to obey.<br>
+But here in Wisdom’s School we ought to learn,<br>
+How we ’twixt Good and Evil may discern,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">91</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[17]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">D</span>
+For, noble Prince, you must true difference make,<br>
+Lest for the one the other you mistake.<br>
+You must not think you may your self advance,<br>
+By laying hold on every proffer’d chance.<br>
+Tho Fortune seems to smile, and egg you on,<br>
+Let Vertue be your Rule and Guide alone.<br>
+Thus <i>David</i> for his Guide his Vertue took;<br>
+Nor was by Fortune’s proffer’d Kindness shook.<br>
+His Vertue and his Loyalty did save<br>
+King <i>Saul</i>, when Fortune brought him to his Cave,<br>
+And if that I may to you Counsel give,<br>
+You should without a Crown for ever live,<br>
+Rather than get it by the Peoples Lust,<br>
+Or purchase it by ways that are unjust.<br>
+<i>David</i> your Ancestor, from whom you spring,<br>
+Would never by Rebellion be made King;<br>
+But long in <i>Gath</i> a Warring Exile stay’d,<br>
+Till for him God a lawful way had made.<br>
+In <i>Hebron</i>, full of Glory and Renown,<br>
+He gain’d, at last, and not usurpt the Crown.<br>
+By full Consent he did the same obtain,<br>
+And Heav’n’s anointing Oyl was not in vain.<br>
+I once did seem to <i>Amazia</i> dear,<br>
+Who me above m’ambitious hopes did rear;<br>
+I serv’d him then according to my skill,<br>
+And bow’d my Mind unto my Soveraign’s Will.<br>
+Too neer the Soveraign Image then I stood,<br>
+To think that every Line and Stroke was good.<br>
+Some Daubers I endeavour’d to remove,<br>
+And to amend their artless Errours strove.<br>
+My Skill in secret these with slander wound;<br>
+With every Line I drew still faults were found;</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Till wearied, I at last my Work gave o’re.<br>
+And <i>Amazia</i> (I shall say no more)<br>
+Did me to my lov’d Privacy restore.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+For this they think I must my Vertue change,<br>
+For Envy, Malice, and for sweet Revenge.<br>
+Me by themselves they judge, who would do so,<br>
+And cause the King suspect me for his Foe.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">92</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[18]</span>
+But by th’advice I give, you best will find<br>
+Th’Integrity and Plainness of my Mind;<br>
+And that I harbour not that vile intent<br>
+Their Poets and their Malice do invent.<br>
+Far be’t from me, to be like Cursed <i>Cham</i>;<br>
+A good Son strives to hide his Father’s shame.<br>
+A King, the Father of his Country is;<br>
+His shame is every Act he doth amiss.<br>
+Good and just Kings God’s Image bear; but when<br>
+Their Frailties let us see they are but Men,<br>
+We cannot every Action so applaud,<br>
+As if it came from an unerring God.<br>
+Kings have their Passions, and deceiv’d may be,<br>
+When b’others Ears and Eyes they hear and see:<br>
+For Sycophants, of Courts the Bane and Curse,<br>
+Make all things better than they are, or worse.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+To Evil prone, to Mischief ever bent,<br>
+Th’all Objects with false colours represent;<br>
+The Guilty clear, condemn the Innocent.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Thus, noble Prince, they you and me accuse<br>
+With all the Venome Malice can infuse.<br>
+<i>Baal</i>’s Priests, Hell, and our Foes, new Arts have got,<br>
+The filthy Reliques of their former Plot;<br>
+Whereby they would our Lives in danger bring,<br>
+And make us cursed Traytors to the King.<br>
+What mayn’t these cunning men hope to atchieve,<br>
+When by their Arts few men their Plot believe?<br>
+When b’horrid ways, not known to <i>Jews</i> before,<br>
+Their Plot’s transform’d, and laid now at our door?<br>
+But fear not, Sir, we have a sure Defence,<br>
+The Peoples Love, God, Law, and Innocence.<br>
+Keep fast your Vertue, and you shall be blest,<br>
+And let alone to God and Time the rest.<br>
+<p class = "verse">
+The Noble Youth, with Vertues Robes arrai’d,<br>
+Consider’d well what the wise <i>Hushai</i> said.<br>
+Desire of Power, though of Celestial Birth,<br>
+Below, is ever intermixt with Earth:<br>
+And all who do to hight of Place aspire,<br>
+Have earthly Smoak mixt with their mounting Fire.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">93</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[19]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">D2</span>
+Praise may debauch, and strong Ambition blind,<br>
+Where heav’nly Vertue does not guard the Mind.<br>
+But <i>Azaria</i> so well understood,<br>
+He left the Evil, and embrac’d the Good:<br>
+Tho in his breast aspiring thoughts he found,<br>
+Yet Loyalty still kept them within bound.<br>
+And tho he might have Empire in his Eye,<br>
+When to it by his bloud allay’d so nigh,<br>
+Yet in his Soul such Virtue did remain,<br>
+He by Rebellion would not Empire gain.<br>
+Through every Vein his Loyal Bloud did run,<br>
+Yet Royal too, as <i>Amazia</i>’s Son.<br>
+About his noble Heart he felt it spring;<br>
+Which let him know his Father was a King.<br>
+If that to <i>Azaria</i> were a Blot,<br>
+His Father made it when he him begot:<br>
+But Heav’n such Virtue moulded with his Soul,<br>
+That his aspiring Lust it did controul.<br>
+Thus to wise <i>Hushai</i> he repli’d: I finde<br>
+Your Counsel is agreeing with my Minde.<br>
+And tho my Foes me an ill man do make,<br>
+My Loyalty I never will forsake:</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Yet, prudent <i>Hushai</i>, do not Nature blame,<br>
+If I cannot, unmov’d, appear so tame<br>
+As not to shew Resentment at my Shame.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Oh, would to Heav’n I ne’er had been begot!<br>
+Or never had been born a Royal Blot!</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+My Father’s Bloud runs thorow every Vein;<br>
+He form’d those Spirits which desire to reign,<br>
+Mount t’wards a Throne, and sordid Earth disdain.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+In Glory, Fame, Crowns, Empire, they delight,<br>
+And to all these they would assert my Right.<br>
+And my great Thoughts do whisper there is none<br>
+Can be more neer a Father, than his Son.<br>
+This prompts me to oppose <i>Eliakim</i>,<br>
+And never yield my Father’s Crown to him.<br>
+But then one groveling thought strait pulls me down,<br>
+And throws me at a distance from The Crown.<br>
+Oh, would to God&mdash;&mdash;&mdash;And here he stopt and sigh’d,<br>
+
+Whilst <i>Hushai</i> thus to the griev’d Prince repli’d.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+<span class = "facpage">94</span>
+Indeed, great Prince, it seemeth wondrous strange<br>
+To all the World, to see your Father’s change;<br>
+To find the happy Love he us’d to show’r,<br>
+Like fruitful Rain, on you, to fall no more:<br>
+To see a Son, the Father’s dear Delight,<br>
+His pleasing Joy, now banish’d from his sight.<br>
+Nature must in the Father deeply groan,<br>
+When from his Heart is rent so dear a Son.<br>
+Nor can I think, tho he from you should part,<br>
+A Brother e’er can lie so near his Heart.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+To work this Change, your Foes much Art do use,<br>
+Their venom’d Tongues your Fathers Ears abuse,<br>
+And you of an aspiring mind accuse.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Justice in <i>Amazia</i> bears such sway,<br>
+That even Nature must to it give way;<br>
+H’ad rather Nature force, and part with you,<br>
+Than seem to rob another of his due.<br>
+He holds it just, and as a thing divine,<br>
+To keep unbroken still the Royal Line.<br>
+Such an Example we can hardly find,<br>
+A King to’s Brother so exceeding kind;<br>
+When by it he doth such great hazard run,<br>
+Losing at once his People and his Son.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Grieve not, great Prince, at your unhappy Fate;<br>
+Let not your Birth your Vertue to abate;<br>
+It was not you that could your self create.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+I should great folly shew, should I repine<br>
+At what I could not help, and was no fault of mine.<br>
+Tho by your Mothers side your Birth was mean,<br>
+And tho your Mother no declared Queen,<br>
+If Heaven and your Father please, you may<br>
+By lawful Right, <i>Judea</i>’s Scepter sway,<br>
+After that he is number’d with the Dead,<br>
+And his great Soul to <i>Abraham</i>’s Bosom fled.<br>
+Possession of a Crown clears every Stain;<br>
+No blot of Birth to you can then remain.<br>
+What Pow’r on Earth, by Right, dares question you?<br>
+Or what your Father and <i>Sanhedrim</i> do?<br>
+Nor is your Birth to Heaven any let;<br>
+God <i>Jepthtah</i> once did o’re <i>Judea</i> set.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">95</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[21]</span>
+He was a Conquerour of a mighty Name,<br>
+And’s Mother no ways did eclipse his Fame,<br>
+Nor bar’d him from the Title of a King,<br>
+Nor those who after from his Loins did spring.<br>
+Nature may yet make your great Father kind;<br>
+And who can tell but he may change his mind,<br>
+When your Succession shall be understood<br>
+To be the Peoples Choice, and for the Nations Good?<br>
+But let us leave what is to come, to Fate;<br>
+Yours Father’s pleasure and God’s will await.<br>
+Long may it be ere the King’s life doth end;<br>
+On it our Peace and Happiness depend.<br>
+Like Wheat full ripe, with many years bow’d down,<br>
+Let him leave this for an immortal Crown.<br>
+And who can tell Heav’n’s will? it may be too,<br>
+<i>Eliakim</i> may die before the King or you.<br>
+Think of no Titles while your Father lives;<br>
+Take not what an unjust Occasion gives.<br>
+For to take Arms you can have no pretence,<br>
+Tho it should be e’en in your own defence.<br>
+It better were without the Crown to die,<br>
+Than quit your Vertue and blest Loyaltie.<br>
+You with the numerous Peoples Love are blest,<br>
+Not of the Vulgars onely, but the Best.<br>
+I would not have you their kind Love repel,<br>
+Nor give encouragement for to rebel:<br>
+For their Affection which they wildly shew,<br>
+Is rendred, by your Foes, a Crime in you.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Here you your Course must even steer and strait,<br>
+That you may not your Father’s fears create;<br>
+Keep the <i>Jews</i> Love, and not increase his Hate.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Leave for a while the Citie and the Court,<br>
+Go and divert your self with Country-sport;<br>
+Perhaps your Foes may then abate their spight,<br>
+And you may be forgot, when out of sight.<br>
+By your Retirement, you will let them see<br>
+You’d take away all cause of Jealousie.<br>
+That you, like <i>Absalom</i>, will never prove,<br>
+To court the head-strong Peoples factious Love.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">96</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[22]</span>
+Nor will I ever prove <i>Achitophel</i>,<br>
+To give you wicked Counsel to rebel.<br>
+Continue still your Loyalty, be just;<br>
+And for the Crown, God and your Vertue trust.<br>
+Endeavour not to take what may be giv’n;<br>
+Deserve it first, and then receive’t from Heav’n.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+He said, And this Advice above the rest,<br>
+Suited with <i>Azaria</i>’s Vertue best.<br>
+He was not stain’d with Cruelty or Pride;<br>
+A thousand Graces he possest beside.<br>
+To Vertue he was naturally inclin’d,<br>
+And Goodness clothed his heroick Mind.<br>
+His Kingly Vertues made him fit to reign,<br>
+Yet scorn’d by evil Arts the Crown to gain.<br>
+And tho he Empire to desire did seem,<br>
+His Loyalty was still more dear to him:<br>
+Therefore he did not court the Peoples Love,<br>
+Nor us’d their Pow’r his Rival to remove.<br>
+From’s Father he fought not their Hearts to steal,<br>
+Nor head a Faction mov’d by blinding Zeal;<br>
+But like a vertuous and a pious Son,<br>
+Sought all occasions of Offence to shun.<br>
+In private like a common man sat down,<br>
+His Peace his Rule, his Loyalty his Crown.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Thus humble, vertuous, loyal, void of Pride,<br>
+Most of the <i>Jews</i> he gained to his side.<br>
+Not factious Sects, the Rabble, or the rude<br>
+Erring, unthinking, vulgar Multitude:<br>
+But the chief Tribes and Princes of the Land,<br>
+Who durst for <i>Moses</i>’s ancient Statutes stand.<br>
+The pious, just, religious, and the good,<br>
+Men of great Riches, and of greater Bloud,<br>
+Did, as one man, themselves together joyn<br>
+To stop the <i>Baalites</i>, and Hell’s curst design.<br>
+Not wicked, or seduc’d by impious Arts,<br>
+But Loyal all, and Patriots in their Hearts.<br>
+For they beheld the <i>Baalites</i> foul intent,<br>
+Religion to o’rethrow and <ins class = "mycorr"
+title = "text reads ‘Governmenr’">Government</ins>.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">97</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[23]</span>
+These at the Monarch’s Power did not grutch,<br>
+Since bound by Laws, he could not have too much.<br>
+What Laws prescribe, they thought he well might have,<br>
+How could he else his Realm in danger save?<br>
+But <i>Baal</i>’s or <i>Egypt</i>’s Yoke they would refuse,<br>
+Not fitting for the Necks of free-born <i>Jews</i>.<br>
+They all resolve the King not to oppose,<br>
+Yet to defend the Nation from its Foes.<br>
+And were it not for those great Worthy men,<br>
+The <i>Jews</i> distress’d and wretched soon had been.<br>
+Among the Rout perhaps there some might blend,<br>
+Whose int’rest made them Publick Good pretend;<br>
+Weary of Peace, new Troubles would create,<br>
+And for their private Gain, embroyl the State.<br>
+And some perhaps there were, who thought a King<br>
+To be of Charge, and but an useless thing.<br>
+Some idle Fops, who publickly debate<br>
+To shew their Parts, the deep Intrigues of State;<br>
+These and some others, for a Commonwealth,<br>
+Among the Herd, unseen, might hide by stealth:<br>
+But it would strange to common Justice seem,<br>
+For some few bad, the sound Flock to condemn.<br>
+Like Goats among the Sheep, well known these bleat,<br>
+And are like Darnel ’mong the purest Wheat.<br>
+These not as Friends, but Enemies to the Throne,<br>
+Good Patriots and good Subjects did disown.<br>
+And <i>Azaria</i>, tho <ins class = "mycorr"
+title = "text reads ‘tehy’">they</ins> us’d his name,<br>
+Disdain’d their Friendship with a loyal shame.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+But he beheld appearing on his side,<br>
+Princes, whose Faith and Loyalty were try’d;<br>
+Such as no base or sordid ends could move,<br>
+Who did his Father and their Country love.<br>
+In the first rank of these did <i>Nashon</i> stand,<br>
+None nobler or more loyal in the Land.<br>
+Under the King he once did <i>Edom</i> sway,<br>
+And taught that Land the <i>Jews</i> good Laws t’obey.<br>
+True to his Word, and of unspotted Fame;<br>
+Great both in Parts, in Vertue, and in Name.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">98</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[24]</span>
+His Faith ne’r touch’d, his Loyalty well known,<br>
+A Friend both to his Country and the Throne.<br>
+Base ends his great and noble Soul did scorn,<br>
+Of loyal, high, and noble Parents born.<br>
+His Father with renown and great Applause,<br>
+For <i>Joash</i> di’d, and suffer’d for his Cause.<br>
+Of great <i>Aminadab</i> who would not sing,<br>
+Whose glory shin’d next to the martyr’d King?<br>
+From him his Son true Loyalty understood,<br>
+Imprest on’s Soul, seal’d with his Father’s Bloud.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+The grave, religious, wife, rich <i>Helon</i> too,<br>
+Much honoured by every zealous <i>Jew</i>,<br>
+Appear’d a Patriot, to his Country true.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+In the <i>Jews</i> Laws, and strict Religion bred,<br>
+And <i>Baal</i>’s curst Rites did much abhor and dread.<br>
+His Son <i>Eliab</i>, in the <i>Sanhedrim</i>,<br>
+With courage had oppos’d <i>Eliakim</i>:<br>
+A man whose many Vertues, and his Parts,<br>
+Had won upon the sober Peoples Hearts.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+From every Faction, and from Envy free;<br>
+Lov’d well the King, but hated Flatterie;<br>
+Kept <i>Moses</i>’s Laws, yet was no <i>Pharisee</i>.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+He went not to their <i>Synagogues</i> to pray,<br>
+But to the Holy Temple every day.<br>
+With piercing Judgment saw the Lands Disease,<br>
+And labour’d onely for the Kingdoms Peace:<br>
+Loyal and honest was esteem’d by all,<br>
+Excepting those who strove to set up <i>Baal</i>.<br>
+For an ill Action he ne’r stood reprov’d;<br>
+But’s King, his Country, and Religion lov’d.<br>
+No Taint ere fell upon <i>Eliab</i>’s name,<br>
+Nor Hell it self found cause to spot his Fame.<br>
+<i>Pagiel</i> with honour loaded, and with years,<br>
+Among this Loyal Princely Train appears.<br>
+None <i>Pagiel</i> tax’d, for no one ever knew<br>
+That he to <i>Amazia</i> was untrue.<br>
+A Fame unspotted he might truly boast;<br>
+Yet he had Foes, and his gain’d Favours lost.<br>
+<i>Zuar</i>, a sober and a vertuous Prince,<br>
+Who never gave least cause of an offence.</p>
+<span class = "facpage">99</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[25]</span>
+<span class = "folionum"><ins class = "mycorr" title =
+"missing in facsimile">E</ins></span>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+<i>Elishama</i>, at once both sage and young,<br>
+From noble and from loyal Fathers sprung,<br>
+Shone bright among this sober Princely throng.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+<i>Enan</i>, a Prince of very worthie Fame;<br>
+Great in deserved Title, Bloud, and Name.<br>
+<i>Elizur</i> too, who number’d with the best<br>
+In Vertue, scorn’d to lag behind the rest.<br>
+<i>Abidon</i> and <i>Gamaliel</i> had some sway;<br>
+Both loyal, and both zealous in their way.<br>
+And now once more I will invoke my Muse,<br>
+To sing brave <i>Ashur</i>’s praise who can refuse?<br>
+Sprung from an ancient and a noble Race,<br>
+With Courage stampt upon his manly face;<br>
+Young, active, loyal; had through Dangers run,<br>
+And with his Sword abroad had Honours won:<br>
+Well-spoken, bold, free, generous, and kind,<br>
+And of a noble and discerning mind.<br>
+Great ones he scorn’d to court, nor fools would please,<br>
+But thought it better for to trust the Seas.<br>
+He thought himself far safer in a Storm,<br>
+And should receive from raging Seas less harm,<br>
+Than from those dangerous men, who could create<br>
+A Storm at Land, with Envie and with Hate.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+And now got free from all their Trains and Wiles,<br>
+He at their hateful Plots and Malice smiles,<br>
+Plowing the Ocean for new Honour toils.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+These were the chief; a good and faithful Band<br>
+Of Princes, who against those men durst stand<br>
+Whose Counsel sought to ruine all the Land.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+With grief they saw the cursed <i>Baalites</i> bent<br>
+To batter down the <i>Jewish</i> Government;<br>
+To pull their Rights and true Religion down,<br>
+By setting up a <i>Baalite</i> on the Throne.<br>
+These wisely did with the <i>Sanhedrim</i> joyn;<br>
+Which Council by the <i>Jews</i> was thought divine.<br>
+The next Successour would remove, ’tis true,<br>
+Onely because he was a <i>Baalite</i> Jew.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Ills they foresaw, and the great danger found,<br>
+Which to the King (as by their Dutie bound)<br>
+They shew’d, and open laid the bleeding Wound.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+<span class = "facpage">100</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[26]</span>
+But such who had possest his Royal Ear,<br>
+Had made the King his Loyal Subjects fear;<br>
+Did their good Prince with causeless terrour fright,<br>
+As if these meant to rob him of his Right.<br>
+Said, They with other Rebels did combine,<br>
+And had against his Crown some ill designe:<br>
+That the wise <i>Hushai</i> laid a wicked Train,<br>
+And <i>Azaria</i> sought in’s stead to reign:<br>
+That the old Plot to ruine Church and State,<br>
+Was born from <i>Hushai</i>’s and the <i>Levite</i>’s Pate:<br>
+That <i>Pharisees</i> were bold and numerous grown,<br>
+And sought to place their Elders in his Throne.<br>
+No wonder then if <i>Amazia</i> thought<br>
+These Loyal Worthies did not as they ought;<br>
+That they did Duty and Obedience want,<br>
+And no Concessions from the Throne would grant.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+They who in <i>Amazia</i>’s favour grew,<br>
+Themselves obnoxious to the People knew.<br>
+Some were accused by the <i>Sanhedrim</i>,<br>
+Most Friends and Allies to <i>Eliakim</i>:<br>
+For his Succession eagerly they strove,<br>
+And him, the rising Sun, adore and love.<br>
+When <i>Doeg</i>, who with <i>Egypt</i> did combine,<br>
+And to enslave <i>Judea</i> did designe,<br>
+Accus’d of Treason by the <i>Sanhedrim</i>,<br>
+Kept in the Tower of <i>Jerusalem</i>;<br>
+The Object prov’d of fickle Fortunes sport,<br>
+And lost the Honours he possest at Court.<br>
+<i>Elam</i> in favour grew, out stript by none,<br>
+And seem’d a Prop to <i>Amazia</i>’s Throne.<br>
+He had in foreign parts been sent to School,<br>
+And did in <i>Doeg</i>’s place the Kings thin Treasure rule.<br>
+He to <i>Eliakim</i> was neer alli’d;<br>
+What greater parts could he possess beside?<br>
+For the wise <i>Jews</i> believ’d the King did run<br>
+Some hazard, if he prov’d his Father’s Son.<br>
+But now, alas! th’ Exchequer was grown poor,<br>
+The Coffers empty, which did once run o’re.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">101</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[27]</span>
+<span class = "folionum">E2</span>
+The bounteous King had been so very kind,<br>
+That little Treasure he had left behind.<br>
+<i>Elam</i> had gotten with the empty Purse,<br>
+For his dead Father’s sake the Peoples Curse:<br>
+For they believ’d that no great good could spring<br>
+From one false to his Country and his King.<br>
+<i>Jotham</i> the fickle Shuttle-cock of Wit,<br>
+Was bandied several ways to be made fit:<br>
+Unconstant, he always for Honour tri’d,<br>
+At last laid hold upon the rising side.<br>
+If Wit he had, ’twas thought, by not a few,<br>
+He a better thing did want, and Wisdom too.<br>
+Then <i>Amiel</i> would scarce give place to him,<br>
+Who once the chief was of the <i>Sanhedrim</i>.<br>
+He then appeared for the Crowns defence;<br>
+But spoke his own, and not the Nations sense.<br>
+And tho he praised was by <i>Shimei</i>’s Muse,<br>
+The <i>Jews</i> of many Crimes did him accuse.<br>
+<i>Harim</i>, a man like a bow’d Ninepence bent,<br>
+Had tried all the ways of Government:<br>
+Was once a Rebel, and knew how to cant;<br>
+Then turn’d a very Devil of a Saint:<br>
+Peevish, morose, and some say, prov’d a fool,<br>
+When o’re the <i>Edomites</i> he went to rule.<br>
+When to his bent the King he could not bring,<br>
+He fairly then went over to the King.<br>
+Old <i>Amalack</i>, a man of cunning head,<br>
+Once in the cursed School of Rebels bred;<br>
+From thence his Maximes and his Knowledge drew,<br>
+Of old known Arts how to enslave the <i>Jew</i>.<br>
+For pardon’d Treason, thus sought to atone,<br>
+Had wrong’d the Father, would misguide the Son.<br>
+Once in Religion a strict <i>Pharisee</i>,<br>
+To <i>Baal</i>’s then turn’d, or else of none was he.<br>
+He long before seem’d to approve their Rites,<br>
+Marrying his issue to the <i>Baalites</i>.<br>
+A constant hunter after sordid Pelf;<br>
+Was never just to any but himself:<br>
+A very <i>Proteus</i> in all shapes had been,<br>
+And constant onely, and grown old in sin.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">102</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[28]</span>
+To speak the best of <i>Amalack</i> we can,<br>
+A cunning Devil in the shape of Man.<br>
+<i>Muppim</i>, a man of an huge working Pate,<br>
+Not how to heal, but to embroil the State;<br>
+Knew how to take the wrong, and leave the right;<br>
+Was once himself a Rebel <i>Benjamite</i>.<br>
+To that stiff Tribe he did a while give Law,<br>
+And with his iron Yokes kept them in aw.<br>
+The Tyrant <i>Zabed</i> less did them provoke,<br>
+And laid upon their necks a gentler Yoke.<br>
+Amongst that Tribe he left an hated Name,<br>
+And to <i>Jerusalem</i> from thence he came,</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+Where he tyrannick Arts sought to intrude,<br>
+To learn which, <i>Amazia</i> was too good,<br>
+And better the <i>Jews</i> temper understood.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Refus’d, the Serpent did with Woman joyn,<br>
+And Counsels gave th’<i>Egyptian</i> Concubine.<br>
+<i>Adam</i>, first Monarch, fell between these two;<br>
+What can’t the Serpent and a Woman do?<br>
+These with some more of the like size and sort,<br>
+In <i>Sion</i> made up <i>Amazia</i>’s Court:<br>
+Whilst his best friends became these Rulers scorn,<br>
+Saw how they drove, and did in silence mourn.<br>
+<i>Sion</i> did then no Sacrifice afford;<br>
+<i>Gibbar</i> had taught the frugal King to board.<br>
+Void were its Cellars, Kitchins never hot,<br>
+And all the Feasts of <i>Solomon</i> forgot.<br>
+Others there were, whose Names I shan’t repeat;<br>
+<i>Eliakim</i> had friends both small and great:<br>
+And many, who then for his Favour strove,<br>
+With their hot heads, like furious <i>Jehu</i>, drove.<br>
+Some Wits, some Witless, Warriors, Rich and Poor,<br>
+Some who rich Clothes and empty Titles wore;<br>
+Some who knew how to rail, some to accuse,<br>
+And some who haunted Taverns and the Stews.<br>
+Some roaring Bullies, who ran th’row the Town<br>
+Crying, God damn ’um, they’d support the Crown:<br>
+Whose wicked Oaths, and whose blasphemous Rant,<br>
+Had quite put down the holy zealous Cant.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">103</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[29]</span>
+Some were for War, and some on Mischief bent;<br>
+And some who could, for gain, new Plots invent.<br>
+Some Priests and Levites too among the rest,<br>
+Such as knew how to blow the Trumpet best:<br>
+Who with loud noise and cackling, cri’d like Geese,<br>
+For Rites, for Temple, and for dearer Fleece.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+’Twixt God and <i>Baal</i>, these Priests divided were;<br>
+Which did prevail, these greatly did not care;<br>
+But headlong drove, without or wit or fear.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+The <i>Pharasees</i> they curse, as Sons of <i>Cham,</i><br>
+And all dissenting <i>Jews</i> to Hell they damn.<br>
+<i>Shimei</i> the Poet Laureate of that Age,<br>
+The falling Glory of the <i>Jewish</i> Stage,<br>
+Who scourg’d the Priest, and ridicul’d the Plot,<br>
+Like common men must not be quite forgot.<br>
+Sweet was the Muse that did his wit inspire,<br>
+Had he not let his hackney Muse to hire:<br>
+But variously his knowing Muse could sing,<br>
+Could <i>Doeg</i> praise, and could blaspheme the King:<br>
+The bad make good, good bad, and bad make worse,<br>
+Bless in Heroicks, and in Satyrs curse.<br>
+<i>Shimei</i> to <i>Zabed</i>’s praise could tune his Muse,<br>
+And Princely <i>Azaria</i> could abuse.<br>
+<i>Zimri</i> we know he had no cause to praise,<br>
+Because he dub’d him with the name of <i>Bays</i>.<br>
+Revenge on him did bitter Venome shed,<br>
+Because he tore the Lawrel from his head;<br>
+Because he durst with his proud Wit engage,<br>
+And brought his Follies on the publick Stage.<br>
+Tell me, <i>Apollo</i>, for I can’t divine,<br>
+Why Wives he curs’d, and prais’d the Concubine;<br>
+Unless it were that he had led his life<br>
+With a teeming Matron ere <i>she</i> was a Wife:<br>
+Or that it best with his dear Muse did sute,<br>
+Who was for hire a very Prostitute.<br>
+The rising Sun this Poets God did seem,<br>
+Which made him tune’s old Harp to praise <i>Eliakim</i>.<br>
+<i>Bibbai</i>, whose name won’t in Oblivion rot,<br>
+For his great pains to hide the <i>Baalites</i> Plot,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">104</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[30]</span>
+Must be remembred here: A Scribe was he,<br>
+Who daily damn’d in Prose the <i>Pharisee</i>.<br>
+With the Sectarian <i>Jews</i> he kept great stir;<br>
+Did almost all, but his dear self, abhor.<br>
+What his Religion was, no one could tell;<br>
+And it was thought he knew himself not well:<br>
+Yet Conscience did pretend, and did abuse,<br>
+Under the notion of Sectarian <i>Jews</i>,<br>
+All that he thought, or all that did but seem<br>
+Foes to <i>Baal</i>’s Rites, <i>Eliakim</i>, and him.<br>
+He was a man of a pernicious Wit<br>
+For railing, biting, and for mischief fit:<br>
+He never slept, yet ever in a Dream;<br>
+Religion, Law, and State, was all his Theam.<br>
+On these he wrote in <i>Earnest</i> and in <i>Jeast</i>,<br>
+Till he grew mad, and turn’d into a Beast,<br>
+<i>Zattue</i> his Zanie was, Buffoon, and Fool,<br>
+Who turn’d Religion into Ridicule:<br>
+Jeer’d at the Plot, did <i>Sanhedrims</i> abuse,<br>
+Mock’d Magistrates, damn’d all Sects of the <i>Jews</i>.<br>
+Of little Manners, and of lesser Brains;<br>
+Yet to embroil the State, took wondrous pains.<br>
+In jeasting still his little Talent lay;<br>
+At <i>Hushai</i> scoft in’s witless grinning way.</p>
+
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket">
+<p class = "verse">
+These with the rest, of every size and sort,<br>
+Strove to be thought Friends to the King and Court,<br>
+With lyes and railing, would the Crown support.</p>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+Then in a Pageant shew a Plot was made,<br>
+And Law it self made War in Masquerade.<br>
+But fools they were, not warn’d by former ill,<br>
+By their own selves were circumvented still.<br>
+They thought by Bloud to give the Kingdom ease;<br>
+Physick’d the <i>Jews</i> when they had no Disease.<br>
+Contingent mischiefs these did not foresee,<br>
+Against their Conscience fought, and God’s Decree.<br>
+What shall we think, when such, pretending good,<br>
+Would build the Nations Peace on Innocent Blood?<br>
+These would expose the People to the Sword<br>
+Of each unbounded Arbitrary Lord.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">105</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[31]</span>
+But their good Laws, by which they Right enjoy,<br>
+The King nor could, nor ever would destroy.<br>
+And tho he Judge be of what’s fit and just,<br>
+He own’d from Heaven, and from Man a Trust.<br>
+Tho Laws to Kingly Power be a Band,<br>
+They are not Slaves to those whom they command.<br>
+The Power that God at first to <i>Adam</i> gave,<br>
+Was different far from what all Kings now have:<br>
+He had no Law but Will; but all Kings now<br>
+Are bound by Laws, as all Examples show.<br>
+By Laws Kings first were made, and with intent<br>
+Men to defend, by Heav’n’s and Man’s consent.<br>
+God to the Crown the Regal Power did bring,<br>
+And by Consent at first, Men chose their King.<br>
+If Kings usurp’d a Power, by force did sway,<br>
+The People by no Law were bound t’obey.<br>
+This does not in the People place a Right<br>
+To dissolve Soveraign sway by force or might.<br>
+To Kings, by long succession, there is giv’n<br>
+A native Right unto the Throne, by Heav’n:<br>
+Who may not be run down by common Cry,<br>
+For Vice, Oppression, and for Tyranny.<br>
+But if that Kings the tyes of Laws do break,<br>
+The People, without fault, have leave to speak;<br>
+To shew their Grievances, and seek redress<br>
+By lawful means, when Kings and Lords oppress.<br>
+Tho they can’t give and take, whene’r they please,<br>
+And Kings allow’d to be God’s Images.<br>
+The Government you Tyranny must call,<br>
+Where Subjects have no Right, and Kings have all.<br>
+But if reciprocal a Right there be,<br>
+Derived down unto Posteritie,<br>
+That side’s in fault, who th’other doth invade,<br>
+By which soe’r at first the breach is made:<br>
+For Innovation is a dangerous thing,<br>
+Whether it comes from People or from King.<br>
+To change Foundations which long Ages stood,<br>
+Which have prov’d firm, unshaken, sound, and good,<br>
+To pull all down, and cast the Frame anew,<br>
+Is work for Rebels, and for Tyrants too.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+<span class = "facpage">106</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[32]</span>
+Now what relief could <i>Amazia</i> bring,<br>
+Fatal indeed to be too good a King?<br>
+Friends he had many, but them did not know,<br>
+Or else made to believe they were not so:<br>
+For all that did ill Ministers oppose,<br>
+Were represented to him as his Foes.<br>
+Yet there were many thousands in those days,<br>
+Who <i>Amazia</i> did both love and praise;<br>
+Who for him daily pray’d, and wish’d his good,<br>
+And for him would have spent both Coin and Bloud.<br>
+Yet these, tho the more numerous, and the best,<br>
+Were call’d but murmuring Traytors by the rest:<br>
+By such who strain’d till they had crackt the string<br>
+Of Government; lov’d Pow’r, and not the King<br>
+These daily hightned <i>Amazia</i>’s fears,<br>
+And thus they whisper’d to his Royal Ears:</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Sir, it is time you now take up the Sword,<br>
+And let your Subjects know you are their Lord.<br>
+Goodness by Rebels won’t be understood,<br>
+And you are much too wonderful and good.<br>
+The <i>Jews</i>, a moody, murmuring, stubborn Race,<br>
+Grow worse by Favours, and rebel with Grace.<br>
+Pamper’d they are, grown rich and fat with ease,<br>
+Whom no good Monarch long could ever please.<br>
+Freedom and Liberty pretend to want;<br>
+That’s still the cry, where they’re on Mischief bent.<br>
+Freedom is their Disease; and had they less,<br>
+They would not be so ready to transgress.<br>
+Give them but Liberty, let them alone,<br>
+They shall not onely you, but God dethrone.<br>
+Remember, Sir, how your good Father fell;<br>
+It was his goodness made them first rebel.<br>
+And now the very self-same tract they tread,<br>
+To reach your Crown, and then take off your head.<br>
+A senseless Plot they stumbl’d on, or made,<br>
+To make you of th’old <i>Canaanites</i> afraid.<br>
+Still when they mean the Nation to enthral,<br>
+With heavie Clamour they cry out on <i>Baal</i>.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">107</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[33]</span>
+But these hot Zealots who <i>Baal</i>’s Idols curse,<br>
+Bow to their own more ugly far and worse.<br>
+<i>Baal</i> would but rob some Jewels from your Crown,<br>
+But these would Monarchy itself pull down:<br>
+Both Church and State they’l not reform by Halves,<br>
+Pull down the Temple, and set up their Calves.<br>
+You, and your Priests, they would turn out to Graze,<br>
+Nor would they let you smell a Sacrifize,<br>
+Those pious Offerings which Priests lasie made,<br>
+To Rebels, should, instead of God be paid.<br>
+How to the Prey these factious <i>Jews</i> do run!<br>
+From you by art they have <ins class = "mycorr"
+title = "text reads ‘debauch,d’">debauch’d</ins> your Son;<br>
+That little subtle Instrument of Hell,<br>
+Worse than to <i>David</i> was <i>Achitophel</i>,<br>
+The young Man tutors, sends him through the Land,<br>
+That he the peoples minds may understand;<br>
+That he, with winning Charms, might court the <i>Jew</i>,<br>
+And draw your fickle Subjects hearts from you.<br>
+Alas! already they of you Complain.<br>
+And are grown sick of your too peaceful Reign,<br>
+Their Lusts grown high, they are debauch’d with Grace,<br>
+And like unfrozen Snakes fly in your Face.<br>
+These men who now pretend to give you Law,<br>
+Stood of the Tyrant <i>Zabed</i>’s power in awe;<br>
+He made them crouch who scorn’d a Prince’s sway,<br>
+And forc’d them, like dull slaves, his power obey.<br>
+Of <i>Israel</i>, and of <i>Juda</i>’s Tribe you spring,<br>
+A Lion is the Ensign of a King,<br>
+Rouse up your self, in mildness sleep no more,<br>
+And make them tremble at your princely roar:<br>
+Appear like <i>Jove</i> with Thunder in your hand,<br>
+And let the Slaves your power understand;<br>
+Strike but the sinning Princes Down to Hell,<br>
+The rest will worship you, and ne’r rebel.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+Thus these rash Men with their bad Counsels strove,<br>
+To turn to hate good <i>Amazia</i>’s Love.</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+A Prince to Mercy naturally inclin’d,<br>
+Not apt to fear, nor of a Jealous Mind,<br>
+Thought no Man e’r against his Life design’d,<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+<span class = "facpage">108</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[34]</span>
+But these with Art did dangers represent,<br>
+And Plots they fram’d the People never meant.<br>
+Each Mole hill they a Mountain did create,<br>
+And sought to fright him with his Fathers Fate.<br>
+<i>Hushai</i> at last was to a Prison sent,<br>
+As a false Traitor to the Government.<br>
+Loud murmurs then possest the troubled <i>Jews</i>,<br>
+Who were surprised at the fatal News;<br>
+His Wisdom they believed their chief support,<br>
+Against the evil Instruments at Court;<br>
+Nor, by his Actions, did they ever find,<br>
+He bore a Trait’rous, or a factious Mind:<br>
+And now they thought themselves expos’d to all<br>
+The Arts, and Plots of the hid friends to <i>Baal</i>.<br>
+Troubled, and discontented, at the last,<br>
+Their Eyes upon the noble Prince they cast.<br>
+Who fearing lest their discontent and rage,<br>
+Should them, to some rebellious Crime ingage,<br>
+Both for his Fathers, and his Countries sake,<br>
+The murmuring People sought more calm to make.<br>
+With a sweet Air, and with a graceful look,<br>
+He did command their silence, e’er he spoke.<br>
+Then thus he said, and though his words were few,<br>
+They fell like Manna, or the Hony Dew;</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+My Country-men, Let not your discontent<br>
+Draw you to actions you will soon repent,<br>
+What e’er your fears and jealousies may be,<br>
+Let them not break the bonds of Loyalty.<br>
+I dare, and you may too, my Father trust,<br>
+For he’s so merciful, so good, so just,<br>
+That he of no mans Life will make a Prey,<br>
+Or take it in an Arbitrary way,<br>
+To Heav’n, and to the King submit your cause,<br>
+Who never will infringe your ancient Laws;<br>
+But if he should an evil Action do,<br>
+To run to Arms, ’tis no pretence for you.<br>
+The King is Judge of what is just and fit,<br>
+And if he judge amiss you must submit,<br>
+Tho griev’d you must your constant duty pay,<br>
+And your Redress seek in a lawful way.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">109</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[35]</span>
+<i>Hushai</i> tho he of Treason be accus’d,<br>
+Such loyal precepts in my soul infus’d,<br>
+That I the hazard of my life will run,<br>
+Rather than prove my self a Rebel Son.<br>
+Our Foes, have sought to’ infect my Father’s mind,<br>
+To think, you to Rebellion are inclin’d:<br>
+To stir you to Rebellion is their aim,<br>
+And they are mad, to see you justly tame.<br>
+Upon your Heads, they fain would lay their sin,<br>
+’Tis War they seek, but would have you begin:<br>
+Pretence they want, who for the King do seem,<br>
+To bring in, and set up <i>Eliakim</i>.<br>
+I am afraid the <i>Baalites</i> cursed Plot,<br>
+By many laught at, and by most forgot,<br>
+Is carried on still, in their hidden Mine,<br>
+I fear, but dare not, the event, divine.<br>
+May Heav’n defend my Father’s Life, and late,<br>
+Full ripe with Age, in peace, may <ins class = "mycorr" title =
+"so in original: ‘he yield’ or metrical
+‘h’yield’?">he’yield</ins>
+to Fate.<br>
+I know, my Friends, for Him’s your chiefest Care,<br>
+For him, as much as for your selves, you fear,<br>
+Upon his Life our happiness depends,<br>
+With it the peace of all <i>Judea</i> ends,<br>
+Be vigilant, your foes Designs prevent,<br>
+Let not loud murmures shew your discontent:<br>
+Your Loyal Duty to your Soveraign pay,<br>
+Your Griefs present him in a Lawful way:<br>
+Be not too anxious for our common Friend,<br>
+God, and his Innocence will him defend:<br>
+Sit down in quiet, murmure not, but pray,<br>
+Submit to Heaven, your King, and Laws obey.<br>
+Youth, Beauty, and the Grace wherewith he spoke,<br>
+The Eyes, Ears, Hearts, of all the people took,<br>
+Their murmures then to joyful shouts were turn’d,<br>
+And they rejoyc’d, who lately murmuring mourn’d:<br>
+With Loyalty he did their Breasts inflame,<br>
+And they with shouts blest <i>Azaria</i>’s name.<br>
+The joyful Cry th’row all the City flew,<br>
+God save the King, and <i>Azaria</i> too.<br>
+To him the Princes, his best Friends resort,<br>
+Resolv’d as Suppliants, to repair to Court;<br>
+<span class = "facpage">110</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[36]</span>
+In humble wise, to shew the King their Grief,<br>
+And on their bended Knees to seek Relief.<br>
+They ’approach’d the Throne, to it their homage paid,<br>
+Then to the King, the Loyal <i>Nashon</i> said.<br>
+Great Sir, whom all good Subjects truly Love,<br>
+Tho all things that you do they can’t approve,<br>
+We, whom the Throne has with high Honours blest,<br>
+Present you here the prayers of the rest;<br>
+Our bended Knees, as low as Earth we bow,<br>
+And humbly prostrate supplicate you now:<br>
+The blessing of your Love to us restore,<br>
+And raise us to your Favour, Sir, once more.<br>
+Where is the Joy, the Peace, and Quiet flown,<br>
+All had, when first you did ascend the Throne;<br>
+Now murmuring discontents assault our Ears,<br>
+And loud Complaints of jealousies, and fears:<br>
+Bad instruments help to blow up this Fire,<br>
+And with ill minds, their own worse Arts admire,<br>
+Whilst, by their means, you think your Friends your Foes,<br>
+For your best friends, your Enemies suppose;<br>
+Suspect your Loyal Subjects, and believe<br>
+The <i>Sanhedrim</i> would you of Rights bereive.<br>
+Your people, who do love your gentle Sway,<br>
+And willingly their God, and you obey,<br>
+Who for Religion ever zealous were,<br>
+For that, for you, and for themselves do fear.<br>
+Clear as the Sun, by sad effects they find,<br>
+A <i>Baalite</i> to succeed you is design’d:<br>
+Sir, they would not dispute with you, his right,<br>
+But they can n’re indure a <i>Baalite</i>:<br>
+Tho whilst you live, they are secure and blest,<br>
+Yet are they with a thousand fears opprest,<br>
+Think your Life still in danger of the Plot,<br>
+Which now is laugh’d at, and almost forgot.<br>
+They see the <i>Baalites</i> Hellish Plot run down,<br>
+And on the <i>Pharisees</i> a false one thrown;<br>
+Your zealous faithful <i>Jews</i> all Rebels made,<br>
+Their ruine hatch’d, you, and themselves betray’d.<br>
+Oh! Sir, before things to extreams do run,<br>
+Remember, at the least, you have a Son,<br>
+<span class = "facpage">111</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[37]</span>
+Let the <i>Sanhedrim</i> with your wisdom joyn,<br>
+To keep unbroken still the Royal line;<br>
+And to secure our fears, that after you,<br>
+None shall succeed but a believing <i>Jew</i>.<br>
+Sir, this is all your Loyal Subjects Crave,<br>
+On you, as on a God, they cry to save.<br>
+Kings are like Gods on Earth, when they redress,<br>
+Their peoples Griefs, and save them in distress.<br>
+With loads of careful thoughts, the King opprest,<br>
+And long revolving in his Royal Breast,<br>
+Th’ event of Things&mdash;&mdash;at last he silence broke,<br>
+And, with an awful Majesty, he spoke.<br>
+I’ve long in Peace <i>Judeas</i> Scepter swaid,<br>
+None can Complain, I Justice have delay’d:<br>
+My Clemency, and Mercy has been shown,<br>
+Blood, and Revenge did ne’r pollute my Throne;<br>
+I and my People happy, kindly strove,<br>
+Which should exceed, my Mercy or their Love:<br>
+Who, till of late, more ready were to give<br>
+Supplies to me, than I was to receive.<br>
+Oh! happy days, and oh! unhappy change;<br>
+That makes my <i>Sanhedrims</i>, and my people strange,<br>
+And now, when I am in the Throne grown old,<br>
+With grief I see my Subjects Love prove cold.<br>
+They fear not my known Mercy to offend,<br>
+And with my awful Justice dare contend;<br>
+But yet their Crimes my mercy shan’t asswage,<br>
+I’m ready to forgive th’ offending Age,<br>
+And though they should my Kingly power slight,<br>
+I’le still keep for them my forgiving right.<br>
+I feel a tenderness within me spring,<br>
+I am my Peoples Father, and their King,<br>
+And tho I think, they may have done me wrong.<br>
+I can’t remember their offences long.<br>
+Nature is mov’d, and sues for a Reprieve,<br>
+They are my Children, and I must forgive.<br>
+My many jealous fears I shan’t repeat,<br>
+My Heart with a strong pulse of Love doth beat;<br>
+Nature I feel has made a sudden start,<br>
+And a fresh source springs from the Father’s heart.<br>
+<span class = "facpage">112</span>
+<span class = "pagenum">[38]</span>
+A stubborn Bow, drawn by the force of men,<br>
+The force remov’d, flies <ins class = "mycorr" title =
+"see ‘References’ at end of Editor’s Introduction">swifty</ins>
+back agen.<br>
+’Tis hard a Fathers nature to o’ercome,<br>
+How easily does she her force assume!<br>
+Sh’ has o’er my Soul an easie Conquest won,<br>
+And I remember now I have a Son,<br>
+Whose Youth had long been my paternal Care,<br>
+Rais’d to the height his noble frame could bear,<br>
+And Heav’n has seem’d to give his Soul a turn,<br>
+As if ordain’d by Fate for Empire born.<br>
+By our known Laws I have the Scepter sway’d,<br>
+By them I govern’d, them my Rule I made.<br>
+To them I sought to frame my soveraign Will,<br>
+By them my Subjects I will govern still:</p>
+<table class = "bracket">
+<tr>
+<td class = "bracket text">
+They, not the People, shall proclaim my Heir,<br>
+Yet I will hearken to my Subjects Prayer,<br>
+And of a <i>Baalite</i> will remove their fear.<br>
+</td>
+<td class = "bracket right">}</td>
+</tr>
+</table>
+<p class = "verse inline nospace">
+From hence I’le banish every Priest of <i>Baal</i>,<br>
+And the wise <i>Sanhedrim</i> together call:<br>
+That Body with the Kingly Head shall join,<br>
+Their Counsel and their Wisdom mix with mine,<br>
+All former strife betwixt us be forgot,<br>
+And in Oblivion buried every Plot.<br>
+We’l try to live in Love and Peace again,<br>
+As when I first began my happy Reign.<br>
+Before our Trait’rous Foes with secret toil<br>
+Did fair <i>Judea</i>’s blessed Peace embroil.<br>
+May all my latter days excel my first,<br>
+And he who then disturbs our Peace be curst.</p>
+
+<p class = "verse">
+He said: Th’ Almighty heard, and from on high<br>
+Spoke his Consent, in Thunder through the Skie:<br>
+The Augurie was noted by the Croud,<br>
+Who joyful shouts return’d almost as loud:<br>
+Then <i>Amazia</i> was once more restor’d,<br>
+He lov’d his People, they obey’d their Lord.</p>
+
+
+<h4 class = "section ital extended">FINIS.</h4>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's Anti-Achitophel (1682), by Elkanah Settle et al.
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+Project Gutenberg's Anti-Achitophel (1682), by Elkanah Settle et al.
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Anti-Achitophel (1682)
+       Three Verse Replies to Absalom and Achitophel by John Dryden
+
+Author: Elkanah Settle et al.
+
+Editor: Harold Whitmore Jones
+
+Release Date: June 6, 2006 [EBook #18517]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ANTI-ACHITOPHEL (1682) ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Louise Hope, David Starner, Suzanne Lybarger
+and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at
+http://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+  [Transcriber's Note:
+  Typographical errors are listed separately at the end of the Editor's
+  Introduction and each poem.]
+
+
+               _Anti-Achitophel_
+
+                     (1682)
+
+             THREE VERSE REPLIES TO
+
+    _Absalom and Achitophel_ by JOHN DRYDEN
+
+      _Absalom Senior_ by Elkanah Settle
+      _Poetical Reflections_ by Anonymous
+      _Azaria and Hushai_ by Samuel Pordage
+
+
+
+
+            Facsimile Reproductions
+
+          Edited with an Introduction
+                       by
+             HAROLD WHITMORE JONES
+
+              Gainesville, Florida
+        Scholars' Facsimiles & Reprints
+                      1961
+
+
+
+
+SCHOLARS' FACSIMILES & REPRINTS
+118 N.W. 26th Street
+Gainesville, Florida
+Harry R. Warfel, General Editor
+
+Reproduced from Copies in
+BRITISH MUSEUM
+UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA LIBRARY
+
+L. C. Catalog Card Number: 60-6430
+
+Manufactured in the U.S.A.
+Letterpress by J. N. Anzel, Inc.
+Photolithography by Edwards Brothers
+Binding by Universal-Dixie Bindery
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+English verse allegory, humorous or serious, political or moral, has
+deep roots; a reprint such as the present is clearly no place for a
+discussion of the subject at large:[1] it need only be recalled here
+that to the age that produced _The Pilgrim's Progress_ the art form was
+not new. Throughout his life Dryden had his enemies, Prior and Montague
+in their satire of _The Hind and the Panther_, for example. The general
+circumstances under which Dryden wrote _Absalom and Achitophel_,
+familiar enough and easily accessible, are therefore recalled only
+briefly below. Information is likewise readily available on his use of
+Biblical allegory.[2]
+
+    [Footnote 1: Cf. E. D. Leyburn, _Satiric Allegory, Mirror of Man_
+    (New Haven, 1956).]
+
+    [Footnote 2: e.g., _Absalom's Conspiracy_, a tract tracing how the
+    Bible story came to be used for allegorical purposes. See _The
+    Harleian Miscellany_ (1811), VIII, 478-479; and R. F. Jones, "The
+    Originality of 'Absalom and Achitophel,'" _Modern Language Notes_,
+    XLVI (April, 1931) 211-218.]
+
+We are here concerned with three representative replies to _Absalom
+and Achitophel_: their form, their authors, and details of their
+publication. Settle's poem was reprinted with one slight alteration
+a year after its first appearance; the _Reflections_ has since been
+reprinted in part, Pordage's poem not at all. _Absalom Senior_ has been
+chosen because, of the many verse pieces directed against Dryden's poem,
+it is of the greatest intrinsic merit and shows the reverse side of the
+medal, as it were, to that piece; the second is given, not for any
+literary merit it may possess--indeed, from its first appearance it has
+been dismissed as of small worth--but rather as a poem representative of
+much of the versifying that followed hard on the Popish Plot and as one
+that has inspired great speculation as to its author; the third, in
+addition to throwing light on the others, is a typical specimen of the
+lesser work produced in the Absalom dispute.
+
+The author and precise publication date of the _Reflections_ remain
+unidentified. Ascription of the poem to Buckingham rests ultimately on
+the authority of Wood's _Athenae Oxonienses_ and on Wood alone, and we
+do not know on what evidence he thought it to be Buckingham's; we do
+know, however, that Wood was often mistaken over such matters. Sir
+Walter Scott in his collected edition of Dryden (1808; IX, 272-5) also
+accepted Buckingham as the author, but cited no authority; he printed
+extracts, yet the shortcomings of his edition, whatever its convenience,
+are well known. The poem has not appeared in any subsequent edition of
+Dryden's poems, the latest being the four volume set (Oxford, 1958);
+the volume of the California Dryden[A] relevant to _Absalom_ is still
+awaited. Internal evidence is even more scanty. Only one passage of the
+_Reflections_ (sig. D2) may bear on the matter. Perhaps the "Three-fold
+Might" (p. 7, line 11) refers, not to the poet's "tripartite design"
+(p. 7, line 10) or to the Triple Alliance of England, Holland, and
+Sweden against France (1677/8, as in _Absalom and Achitophel_, line
+175) but either to a treatise which had occasioned some stir in the
+scientific world some twenty years previously: "the Delphic problem"
+proposed by Hobbes to the Royal Society on the duplication of the cube,
+which might have come to the ears of Buckingham as well as to those of
+the court,[3] or perhaps to the triple confederacy of Essex, Halifax,
+and Sunderland.[4] But to the Restoration reader the phrase "Three-fold
+Might" would rather have suggested the Triple Alliance, to which Dryden
+reverts in _The Medal_ (lines 65-68) when he claims that Shaftesbury,
+"thus fram'd for ill, ... loos'd our Triple Hold" on Europe.[5]
+
+    [Transcriber's Footnote (A):
+    This Introduction was written in 1959. Volume II of the California
+    Edition (_The Works of John Dryden_) was published in 1972.]
+
+    [Footnote 3: Hobbes, _English Works_ (1845), ed. by Molesworth, VII,
+    59-68.]
+
+    [Footnote 4: H. C. Foxcroft, _A Character of the Trimmer_
+    (Cambridge, England, 1946), p. 70. This book is an abridged
+    version of the same author's _Life and Works of Halifax_ (1897).]
+
+    [Footnote 5: Cf. the phrase "Twofold might" in _Absalom and
+    Achitophel_, I, 175.]
+
+Evidence against Buckingham's authorship, on the other hand, is
+comparatively strong. The piece does not appear in his collected _Works_
+(1704-5). It surely would have been included even though he had at first
+wished to claim any credit from its publication and later have wished to
+disown it. Little connection, furthermore, will be found between the
+_Reflections_ and the rest of his published verse or with the plays,
+including _The Rehearsal_, if the latter be his alone, which is
+doubtful.
+
+_Poetical Reflections_ has been ascribed to Edward Howard. W. Thomas
+Lowndes in his _Bibliographer's Manual_ (1864; II, 126) assigned to this
+minor writer, on the authority of an auction note, the little collection
+_Poems and Essays, with a Paraphrase on Cicero's Laelius, or, Of
+Friendship ... By a Gentleman_ (1674), and G. Thorn-Drury, on the
+equally debatable evidence of an anonymous manuscript ascription on
+the title page of his own copy, ascribed the _Poetical Reflections_ to
+Howard.[6] An examination of the _Poems and Essays_, however, reveals no
+point of resemblance with our poem. How, then, does Howard fit into the
+picture? He was in the rival camp to Dryden and was a friend of Martin
+Clifford[7] and of Thomas Sprat, then Buckingham's chaplain: these three
+have been thought to be jointly responsible for _The Rehearsal_. Sprat
+had published a poem of congratulation to Howard on Howard's _The
+British Princes_ (1669), the latter a long pseudo-epic of the Blackmore
+style in dreary couplets which, again, provides no parallel with the
+_Reflections_. And what of Howard's plays? Many of these were written
+in the 1660's during his poetic apprenticeship; none seems akin to our
+poem. Whereas, as shown in the Table of Allusions below, two independent
+readers often agreed over the identities of many characters in Settle's
+poem, Restoration readers at large were reticent over the authorship
+of the _Reflections_. Hugh Macdonald, in his useful _John Dryden: a
+Bibliography_ (1939), was wise to follow their example, and it seems
+rash, therefore, to propose any new candidate in the face of such
+negative evidence. The poem exists in two states, apparently differing
+only in the title page.
+
+    [Footnote 6: _Review of English Studies_, I (1925) 82-83.]
+
+    [Footnote 7: In his _Notes upon Mr. Dryden's Poems in Four Letters_
+    (1687) Clifford, in 16 pages, accuses Dryden of plagiarism,
+    especially in _Almanzor_.]
+
+Evidence of Settle's authorship of _Absalom Senior_, on the other hand,
+is neither wanting nor disputed. We have had to wait until our own
+century for the pioneer work on this writer, since he cannot have been
+considered a sufficiently major poet by Samuel Johnson's sponsors, and
+Langbaine's account is sketchy. In a periodical paper[8] Macdonald
+summarized supplementary evidence on the dates of composition of
+Settle's poem; he was working on it in January 1681/2, and it was
+published on the following April 6. Lockyer, Dean of Peterborough,
+asserted to Joseph Spence, who includes the rumor in _Anecdotes_, that
+Settle was assisted by Clifford and Sprat and by "several best hands of
+those times";[9] but Spence is notoriously unreliable. In the lack of
+other evidence, then, it seems best to take the poem as wholly Settle's.
+It needs only to add a few words on its textual states. The First
+Edition, here reproduced, seems to exist in a single impression, and
+likewise the Second Edition of the Settle (1682, in quarto) seems to
+have been struck off in a single textual state. Of its individual
+variants from the First Edition only the following seem of any
+significance and, since there is no reason to suppose that it was
+printed from any copy other than the First, they may be merely the
+result of carelessness.
+
+  FIRST EDITION                     SECOND EDITION
+
+  p. 3, line 4, enthron'd, with     inthron'd with
+     3       8, Arts ... steps      Art's ... step's
+    11      10, Rods;               Rods?
+    13      26, to Descend          do Descend
+    14      17, couch,              couch
+    29       9, Cedar               Cedars
+    31      21, Temples             Temple
+
+    [Footnote 8: "The Attacks on John Dryden," _Essays and Studies by
+    Members of the English Association_, XXI, 41-74.]
+
+    [Footnote 9: Joseph Spence, _Anecdotes ... of Books and Men_ (1858),
+    p. 51.]
+
+For "No Link ... night" (p. 35, lines 19-24), the Second Edition
+substitutes, for an undetermined reason, the following:
+
+  No less the Lordly Zelecks Glory sound
+  For courage and for Constancy renoun'd:
+  Though once in naught but borrow'd plumes adorn'd,
+  So much all servile Flattery he scorn'd;
+  That though he held his Being and Support,
+  By that weak Thread the Favour of a Court,
+  In Sanhedrims unbrib'd, he firmly bold
+  Durst Truth and Israels Right unmov'd uphold;
+  In spight of Fortune, still to Honour wed,
+  By Justice steer'd, though by Dependence fed.
+
+Very little can be said of Pordage's poem, beyond its date of
+publication (January 17, 1681/2)[10] and the fact that no parallel has
+been found with his earlier work. As no detailed study on him, published
+or unpublished, has been traced, we can only have recourse to the
+standard works on the period; data thus easily accessible are not
+therefore reproduced here. A so-called second edition (MacDonald 205b)
+is identical with the first.
+
+    [Footnote 10: _Modern Philology_, XXV (1928) 409-416.]
+
+In conclusion a few comments may be made on the general situation into
+which the poems fit. It will be remembered that _Absalom and Achitophel_
+appeared after the Exclusion Bill, the purpose of which was to debar
+James Duke of York from the Protestant succession, had been rejected by
+the House of Lords, mainly through the efforts of Halifax. Dryden's poem
+was advertised on November 17, 1681, and we may safely assume that it
+was published only a short time before Settle and our other authors
+were hired by the Whigs to answer it. Full details have not survived;
+one suspects Shaftesbury's Green Ribbon Club. That such replies were
+considered necessary testifies both to the popularity of _Absalom and
+Achitophel_ with the layman in politics and to the Whigs' fear of its
+harming their cause. Settle's was of course a mercenary pen, and it is
+amusing to note that after ridiculing Halifax here he was quite prepared
+to publish, fourteen years later, _Sacellum Apollinare: a Funeral Poem
+to the Memory of that Great Statesman, George Late Marquiss of Halifax_,
+and on this count his place among Pope's Dunces seems merited. In
+tracing his quarrel with Dryden up to the publication of _Absalom
+Senior_, critics have tended to overlook the fact that by 1680 there
+was already hostility between the two;[11] less has been said about
+the effect on Dryden of the poets themselves. The spleen of his
+contributions to the Second Part of _Absalom and Achitophel_ is
+essentially a manufactured one and for the public entertainment;
+personally he was comparatively unmoved--the Og portrait, for example,
+is less representative than his words in "The Epistle to the Whigs"
+prefixed to _The Medal_. Here, as in _Mac Flecknoe_, he appears to have
+been able to write vituperation to order. "I have only one favor to
+desire of you at parting," he says, and it is "that when you think of
+answering this poem, you would employ the same pens against it, who have
+combated with so much success against _Absalom and Achitophel_; for then
+you may assure yourselves of a clear victory, without the least reply."
+Is it for the best that this forecast proved the right one?
+
+    [Footnote 11: e.g., over _The Empress of Morocco_; see Scott's
+    _Dryden_, XV, 397-413.]
+
+For permission to reproduce their copies of texts comprising the present
+reprint thanks are expressed to the University of Florida Library
+(_Absalom Senior_) and to the Trustees of the British Museum (the other
+two poems). The University of Leeds and the City of Manchester Public
+Library are also thanked for leave to use contemporary marginalia in
+each's copy of Settle's poem. The provenance of the latter two copies
+of this piece is unknown; the first, now in the Brotherton Collection,
+bears the name William Crisp on its last blank leaf and, in abbreviated
+form, identifies some characters; the second, of unidentified ownership,
+is fuller.
+
+                        HAROLD WHITMORE JONES
+
+  _Liverpool, England
+
+    November_, 1959
+
+
+
+
+TABLE OF ALLUSIONS
+
+
+NAMES
+
+The persons and places referred to in the allegories are identified
+in the following lists of names. M indicates the ascription in the
+Manchester copy; B, that in the Leeds University copy. Within the list
+for each poem, names similarly used in _Absalom and Achitophel_ are
+omitted; those used with a different meaning are marked with an
+asterisk.
+
+ABSALOM SENIOR
+
+  *_Absalom_, Duke of York
+  *_Achitophel_, Halifax
+  *_Adriel_, Earl of Huntington
+   _Amasai_, Earl of Macclesfield (M, B)
+   _Amnon_, Godfrey
+  *_Amiel_, Buckingham (B)
+   _Amram_, Sir William Jones
+   _Arabia_, Portugal
+   _Ashur_, Fourth Lord Herbert of Cherbury (M)
+   _Babylon_, Rome
+   _Barak_, Drake
+  *_Barzillai_, Shaftesbury (B)
+  *_Caleb_, Laurence Hyde, son of Clarendon (B)
+   _Camries_, Third Lord Howard of Escrick (M)
+  *_Corah_, Sir Edward Seymour (B)
+   _Deborah_, Queen Elizabeth
+   _Endor_, Oxford (B)
+   _Geshur_, Ireland
+   _Hanaan_, Lord Nottingham
+   _Hazor_, Spain
+  *_Helon_, First Duke of Bedford
+  *_Hothriel_, Slingsby Bethell
+  *_Hushai_, Earl of Argyll
+   _Ithream_, Monmouth
+   _Jabin_, Philip II
+  *_Jonas_, ?Sir William Gregory (M glosses as Seymour; _see Corah_)
+  *_Jotham_, Earl of Essex
+   _Laura_, Anne Reeve
+   _Levitick chiefs_, English bishops (B)
+   _Micah_, Sir William Williams, Speaker of the Commons
+  *_Nadab_, Lauderdale
+  *_Shimei_, Jeffreys (B)
+   _Sidon_, Denmark
+   _Sisera_, Medina Sidonia
+   _Zeleck_, unidentified
+
+POETICAL REFLECTIONS
+
+  *_Amiel_, ?Finch, Lord Chancellor
+  *_Bathsheba_, ?Queen Catherine
+   _Nimrod_, Cromwell
+   _Tory Roger_, L'Estrange
+
+AZARIA AND HUSHAI
+
+   _Abidon_, unidentified
+   _Amalack_, ?Henry Hyde, son of Clarendon
+   _Amazia_, Charles II
+   _Aminadab, Ashur_, unidentified; _see_ Ashur _above_.
+   _Athalia_, Mary Queen of Scots
+   _Azaria_, Monmouth
+   _Azyad_, Sir Edmundbury Godfrey
+   _Bibbai_, L'Estrange
+   _Canaanites, Chemarim_, Papists
+   _Doeg_, Danby
+   _Edomites_, Irish
+   _Elam_, Lawrence Hyde, Earl of Rochester
+   _Eliab_, Lord Russell
+   _Eliakim_, Duke of York
+   _Elishama_, ?Macclesfield
+   _Elizur, Enan_, unidentified
+   _Essens_, nonconformists
+   _Gamaliel_, unidentified
+   _Gedaliah_, Edward Coleman
+   _Gibbar_, ?Lord Clifford
+   _Harim_, ?Lord Wharton
+   _Helon_, Bedford
+  *_Hushai_, Shaftesbury
+   _Jehosaphat_, Henry VII
+   _Jeptha_, see Settle, p. 21
+   _Jerusha_, Anne, Countess of Buccleuch
+   _Joash_, Charles I
+   _Jocoliah_, Lucy Walters
+  *_Jotham_, ?Halifax
+   _Libni_, Oates
+   _Muppim_, ?Lauderdale
+   _Nashai_, Essex
+   _Pagiel_, unidentified
+   _Pharisee_, high churchman
+   _Rehoboam_, unidentified
+  *_Shimei_, Dryden
+   _Zabed_, Cromwell
+   _Zattue_, unidentified
+
+
+REFERENCES
+
+Biblical parallels and parallels with _Absalom and Achitophel_ are
+omitted. The _Dedications_ of the poems can be compared with Dryden's
+in _Absalom and Achitophel_.
+
+ABSALOM SENIOR
+
+Page
+
+  3: _Barak_. The only borrowing in the poem from a popular seventeenth
+    century jest book, _Wits Recreations_ (1640), "Epigrams," no. 46,
+    "On Sir Fr. Drake": "The sun itself cannot forget/His fellow
+    traveller."
+
+  11: a _Jewish_ Renegade. Cardinal Philip Thomas Howard (B).
+
+  13: a Breaden God. Either a reference to transubstantiation (see also
+    II Kings 2-3 and II Chron. 34) or an allusion to the Meal Tub Plot
+    (1679).
+
+  16: a Cake of _Shew-bread_. In addition to the Biblical allusion,
+    perhaps a reference to the poisoning of the Holy Roman Emperor
+    Henry VII by the communion wafer.
+
+  17: in Possession. As this legal term is opposed to "reversion"
+    emendation is unnecessary.
+
+  19: to bear. There was a belief that Jeffreys was connected with
+    the Duchess of Portsmouth (B). The "Golden Prize" was perhaps
+    protestantism, to be suppressed under a secret provision of the
+    Treaty of Dover (1670).
+
+  19: Court-Drugster. Sir George Wakeman.
+
+  25: beautifyed. _OED_ notices this catachrestic form of "beatified"
+
+  32: All-be-devill'd Paper. Presumably that accusing Shaftsbury of
+    high treason.
+
+  34: A Cell. Eton.
+
+  37: Midnight Bawd. Mrs. Cellier.
+
+POETICAL REFLECTIONS
+
+  4: Ignoramus. the jury's verdict at Shaftesbury's trial.
+
+  5: the Joyner. Stephen Colledge.
+
+  9: motly Sight, read "Spight"?
+
+AZARIA AND HUSHAI
+
+  10: Power on _Amazia_. Read "of _Amazia_"?
+
+  19: allay'd. Read "ally'd"?
+
+  28: to board. Read "hoard"?
+
+  38: swifty back. So in all copies seen.
+
+
+[Erratum:
+
+  4: Ignoramus. The jury's verdict at Shaftesbury's trial.
+    _text reads "the jury's"_]
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+                Absalom Senior:
+                      or,
+                  ACHITOPHEL
+                  TRANSPROS'D.
+
+                       A
+                     POEM.
+
+         _Si Populus vult decipi_, &c.
+
+  [Illustration: Publisher's Device:
+  IL VOSTRO MALIGNARE NON GIOVA NVLLA]
+
+
+                    LONDON:
+
+Printed for _S. E._ and Sold by _Langley Curtis_,
+    at the Sign of Sir _Edmondbury Godfrey_,
+           near _Fleetbridge_. 1682.
+
+
+
+
+To the TORIES.
+
+_Gentlemen_, for so you all write your selves; and indeed you are your
+own Heralds, and Blazon all your Coats with _Honour_ and _Loyalty_ for
+your _Supporters_; nay, and you are so unconscionable too in that point,
+that you will allow neither of them in any other _Scutcheons_ but
+your own. But who has 'em, or has 'em not, is not my present business;
+onely as you profess your selves Gentlemen, to conjure you to give an
+Adversary fair play; and that if any person whatsoever shall pretend
+to be aggrieved by this POEM, or any part of it, that he would bear
+it patiently; since the Licentiousness of the first _Absolom_ and
+_Achitophel_ has been the sole occasion of the Liberty of This, I
+having only taken the Measure of My Weapon, from the Length of his;
+which by the Rules of Honour ought not to offend you; especially,
+since the boldness of that Ingenious Piece, was wholly taken from the
+Encouragement you gave the Author; and 'tis from that Boldness only that
+this POEM takes its Birth: for had not his daring Pen brought that Piece
+into the World, I had been so far from troubling my self in any Subject
+on this kind, that I may justly say in one sence, the Writer of that
+_Absolom_, is the Author of this. This favour, as in Justice due,
+obtain'd from you, I shall not trouble you with a long Preface, like
+a tedious Compliment at the Door, but desire you to look in for your
+Entertainment. Onely I cannot forbear telling you, that one thing I
+am a little concern'd for you, _Tories_, that your _Absoloms_ and
+_Achitophels_, and the rest of your Grinning Satyres against the
+_Whiggs_, have this one unpardonable Fault, That the Lash is more
+against a _David_, than an _Achitophel_; whilst the running down of the
+PLOT at so extravagant a rate, savours of very little less (pardon the
+Expression) than ridiculing of Majesty it self, and turning all those
+several Royal Speeches to the Parliament on that Subject, onely into
+those double-tongu'd Oracles that sounded one thing, and meant another.
+Besides, after this unmannerly Boldness, of not onely branding the
+publick Justice of the Nation, but affronting even the Throne it self,
+to push the humour a little farther, you run into ten times a greater
+Vice, (and in the same strain too) than what you so severely inveigh
+against: and whilst a POPISH PLOT through want of sufficient
+Circumstances, and credible Witnesses, miscarries with you, a PROTESTANT
+PLOT without either Witness or Circumstance at all, goes currant. Nay
+you are so far now from your former niceties and scruples, and disparing
+about raising of Armies, and not one Commission found, that you can
+swallow the raising of a whole Protestant ARMY, without either
+Commission, or Commission-Officer; Nay, the very When, Where, and How,
+are no part of your Consideration. 'Tis true, the great Cry amongst you,
+is, The Nations Eyes are open'd; but I am afraid, in most of you, 'tis
+onely to look where you like best: and to help your lewd Eye-sight, you
+have got a damnable trick of turning the Perspective upon occasion, and
+magnifying or diminishing at pleasure. But alas, all talking to you is
+but impertinent, and fending and proving signifie just nothing; for
+after all Arguments, both Parties are so irreconcileable, that as the
+Author of _Absolom_ wisely observed, they'll be Fools or Knaves to each
+other to the end of the Chapter. And therefore I am so reasonable in
+this point, that should be very glad to divide 'em between 'em, and give
+the Fool to the _Tory_, and the Knave to the _Whigg_. For the _Tories_
+that will believe no POPISH PLOT, may as justly come under that
+denomination, as They, that _David_ tells us, _said in their Hearts
+there was no God_. And then let the _Whiggs_ that do believe a _Popish
+Plot_ be the Knaves, for daring to endeavour to hinder the Effects of a
+_Popish Plot_, when the _Tories_ are resolved to the contrary. But to
+draw near a conclusion, I have one favour more to beg of you, that
+you'll give me the freedom of clapping but about a score of years
+extraordinary on the back of my _Absolom_. Neither is it altogether so
+unpardonable a Poetical License, since we find as great slips from the
+Author of your own _Absolom_, where we see him bring in a _Zimri_ into
+the Court of _David_, who in the Scripture-story dyed by the Hand of
+_Phineas_ in the days of _Moses_. Nay, in the other extream, we find him
+in another place talking of the Martyrdome of _Stephen_, so many Ages
+after. And if so famous an Author can forget his own Rules of Unity,
+Time, and Place, I hope you'll give a Minor Poet some grains of
+Allowance, and he shall ever acknowledge himself
+
+    Your Humble Servant.
+
+
+
+
+                Absalom Senior:
+
+                      or,
+
+            ACHITOPHEL TRANSPROS'D.
+
+
+In Gloomy Times, when Priestcraft bore the sway,
+And made Heav'ns Gate a Lock to their own Key:
+When ignorant Devotes did blindly bow,
+And groaping to be sav'd they knew not now:
+Whilst this _Egyptian_ darkness did orewhelm,
+The Priest sate Pilot even at Empires Helm.
+Then Royal Necks were yok'd, and Monarchs still
+Hold but their Crowns at his Almighty Will.
+And to defend this high Prerogative,
+Falsely from Heaven he did that powr derive:
+By a Commission forg'd i'th' hand of God,
+Turn'd _Aarons_ blooming wand, to _Moses_ snaky Rod.
+Whilst Princes little Scepters overpowr'd,
+Made but that prey his wider Gorge devour'd.
+Now to find Wealth might his vast pomp supply,
+(For costly Roofs befit a Lord so high)
+No Arts were spar'd his Luster to support,
+But all Mines searcht t'enrich his shining Court.
+Then Heav'n was bought, Religion but a Trade;
+And Temples Murder's Sanctuary made.
+By _Phineas_ Spear no bleeding _Cozbies_ groan'd,
+If _Cozbies_ Gold for _Cozbies_ Crimes aton'd.
+With these wise Arts, (for Humane Policy
+As well as Heav'nly Truth, mounts Priests so high)
+'Twixt gentle Penance, lazy Penitence,
+A Faith that gratifies both Soul and Sense;
+With easie steps to everlasting Bliss,
+He paves the rugged way to Paradice.
+Thus almost all the Proselyte-World he drives,
+Whilst th'universal Drones buz to his Hives.
+Implicite Faith Religion thus convey'd
+Through little pipes to his great Channel laid,
+Till Piety through such dark Conduits led,
+Was poyson'd by the Spring on which it fed.
+Here blind Obedience to a blinder Guide,
+Nurst that Blind Zeal that rais'd the Priestly pride;
+Whilst to make Kings the Sovereign Prelate own,
+Their Reason he enslav'd, and then their Throne.
+The Mitre thus above the Diadem soar'd,
+Gods humble servant He, but Mans proud Lord.
+It was in such Church-light blind-zeal was bred,
+By Faiths infatuating Meteor led;
+Blind Zeal, that can even Contradictions joyn;
+A Saint in Faith, in Life a Libertine;
+Makes Greatness though in Luxury worn down,
+Bigotted even to th' Hazard of a Crown;
+Ty'd to the Girdle of a Priest so fast,
+And yet Religious only to the wast.
+But Constancy atoning Constancy,
+Where that once raigns, Devotion may lye by.
+T'espouse the Churches Cause lyes in Heav'ns road,
+More than obeying of the Churches God.
+And he dares fight, for Faith is more renown'd
+A Zealot Militant, than Martyr crown'd.
+Here the Arch-Priest to that Ambition blown,
+Pull'd down Gods Altars, to erect his own:
+For not content to publish Heav'ns command,
+The Sacred Law penn'd by th'Almighty Hand,
+And _Moses_-like 'twixt God and _Israel_ go,
+Thought _Sinai_'s Mount a Pinacle too low.
+So charming sweet were Incense fragrant Fumes, }
+So pleas'd his Nostrils, till th'Aspirer comes }
+From offering, to receiving Hecatombs;         }
+And ceasing to adore, to be ador'd.
+So fell Faiths guide: so loftily he towr'd,
+Till like th'Ambitious _Lucifer_ accurst,
+Swell'd to a God, into a Fiend he burst.
+
+  But as great _Lucifer_ by falling gain'd
+Dominion, and ever in Damnation reign'd;
+And though from Lights blest Orb for ever driven,   }
+Yet Prince o'th'Air, h'had that vast Scepter giv'n, }
+T'have Subjects far more numerous than Heav'n.      }
+And thus enthron'd, with an infernal spight,
+The genuine Malice of the Realms of night,
+The Paradise he lost blasphemes, abhors,
+And against Heav'n proclaims Eternal Wars;
+No Arts untry'd, no hostile steps untrod,
+Both against Truths Adorers, and Truths God.
+
+  So Faiths faln Guide, now _Baals_ great Champion raign'd;
+Wide was his Sway, and Mighty his Command:
+Whilst with implacable revenge he burn'd,
+And all his Rage against Gods _Israel_ turn'd.
+Here his invenom'd Souls black gall he flings,
+Spots all his Snakes, and points his Scorpions stings:
+Omits no Force, or Treacherous Designe,
+Blest _Israel_ to assault, or undermine.
+But the first Sword did his keen Malice draw,
+Was aim'd against the God-like _Deborah.
+Deborah_, the matchless pride of _Judah_'s Crown,
+Whose Female hand _Baal's_ impious Groves cut down,
+His banisht Wizards from her _Israel_ thrust,
+And pounded all their Idols into dust.
+Her Life with indefatigable pain,
+By Daggers long, and poysons fought in vain:
+At length they angry _Jabins_ Rage enflam'd,
+_Hazors_ proud King, for Iron Chariots fam'd;
+A Warriour powerful, whose most dreadful Hoast
+Proclaim'd Invincible, (were humane Boast
+Infallible) by haughty _Sisera_ led,
+'Gainst _Deborah_ their bloody Banners spread.
+Here _Deborah_ her _Barak_ calls to War;
+_Barak_, the Suns fam'd fellow-traveller,
+Who wandring o're the Earths surrounded Frame,
+Had travelled far as his great Mistress Fame.
+Here _Barak_ did with _Deborah's_ vengeance fly,
+And to that swift prodigious Victory,
+So much by Humane Praises undefin'd,
+That Fame wants Breath, and Wonder lags behind.
+To Heav'ns high Arch her sounding Glories rung,
+Whilst thus great _Deborah_ and _Barak_ sung.
+
+_Hear, oh ye Princes, oh ye Kings give Ear,
+And _Israels_ great Avengers honour hear.
+When God of Hosts, thou _Israels_ Spear and Shield,
+Wentst out of _Seir_, and marched'st from _Edoms_ field,
+Earth trembled, the Heaven's drop'd, the Clouds all pour'd;
+The Mountains melted from before the Lord;
+Even thy own _Sinai_ melted into streams,
+At _Israels_ dazling Gods refulgent Beams.
+In _Shamgar_ and in _Jael's_ former days,
+The wandring Traveller walked through by-ways.
+They chose new Gods. No Spear nor Sword was found,
+To have Idolatry depos'd, Truth Crown'd,
+Till I alone, against _Jehovahs_ Foes;
+I _Deborah_, I _Israels_ Mother rose.
+Wake _Deborah_, wake, raise thy exalted Head;
+Rise _Barak_, and Captivity Captive lead.
+For to blest _Deborah_, belov'd of Heav'n,
+Over the Mighty is Dominion given.
+Great _Barak_ leads, and _Israels_ Courage warms;
+_Ephraim_ and _Benjamin_ march down in Arms:
+_Zebulon_ and _Nepthali_ my Thunder bore,
+_Dan_ from her Ship, and _Asher_ on the Shore.
+Behold _Megiddoes_ waves, and from afar,
+See the fierce _Jabins_ threatning storm of War.
+But Heav'n 'gainst _Sisera_ fought, and the kind Stars
+Kindl'd their embattel'd Fires for _Deborah's_ Wars,
+Shot down their Vengeance that miraculous day,
+When _Kishons_ Torrants swept their Hosts away.
+But curse ye _Meroz_, curse 'em from on high.
+Did the denouncing voice of Angels cry;
+Accurst be they that went not out t'oppose
+The Mighty _Deborah's_, God's, and _Israel's_ Foes.
+Victorious _Judah!_ Oh my Soul, th'hast trod,
+Trod down their strengths. So fall the Foes of God.
+But they who in his Sacred Laws delight,
+Be as the Sun when he sets out in might._
+
+Thus sung, they conquer'd _Deborah_; thus fell
+Hers, and Heav'ns Foes. But no Defeat tames Hell.
+By Conquest overthrown, but not dismay'd,
+'Gainst _Israel_ still their private Engines play'd.
+And their dire Machinations to fulfil,
+Their stings torn out, they kept their poyson still.
+And now too weak in open force to joyn,
+In close Cabals they hatcht a damn'd Design,
+To light that Mine as should the world amaze,
+And set the ruin'd _Israel_ in a blaze.
+
+  When _Judahs_ Monarch with his Princes round,
+Amidst his glorious Sanedrim sate Crown'd,
+Beneath his Throne a Cavern low, and dark
+As their black Souls, for the great Work they mark.
+In this lone Cell their Midnight-Hands bestow'd
+A _Stygian_ Compound, a combustive load
+Of Mixture wondrous, Execution dire,
+Ready the Touch of their Infernal Fire.
+Have you not seen in yon aethereal Road,
+How at the Rage of th'angry driving God,
+Beneath the pressure of his furious wheels
+The Heav'ns all rattle, and the Globe all reels?
+So does this Thunder's Ape its lightning play,
+Keen as Heav'ns Fires, and scarce less swift than they.
+A short-liv'd glaring Murderer it flies,                   }
+In Times least pulse, a Moments wing'd surprize;           }
+'Tis born, looks big, talks lowd, breaths death, and dies. }
+This Mixture was th'Invention of a Priest;
+The Sulphurous Ingredients all the best
+Of Hells own growth: for to dire Compounds still
+Hell finds the Minerals, and the Priest the Skill.
+
+  From this curst Mine they had that blow decreed,
+A Moments dismal blast, as should exceed
+All the Storms, Battles, Murders, Massacres,
+And all the strokes of Daggers, Swords, or Spears,
+Since first _Cain's_ hand at _Abels_ Head was lift:
+A Blow more swift than Pestilence, more swift
+Than ever a destroying Angel rod,
+To pour the Vial of an angry God.
+
+  The Train was laid, the very Signal giv'n;
+But here th'all-seeing, _Israels_ Guardian, Heav'n
+Could hold no longer; and to stop their way,
+With a kind Beam from th'Empyraean Day,
+Disclos'd their hammering Thunder at the Forge;
+And made their Cyclops Cave their Bolts disgorge.
+
+  Discover'd thus, thus lost, betray'd, undone,
+Yet still untir'd, the Restless Cause goes on;
+And to retrieve a yet auspicious day,
+A glowing spark even in their Ashes lay,
+Which thus burst out in flames. In _Geshur_ Land,
+The utmost Bound of _Israels_ Command,
+Where _Judah's_ planted Faith but slowly grew,
+A Brutal Race that _Israels_ God n'er knew:
+A Nation by the Conquerors Mercy grac'd,
+Their Gods preserv'd, and Temples undefac'd;
+Yet not content with all the Sweets of Peace,
+Free their Estates, and free their Consciences;
+'Gainst _Israel_ those confederate Swords they drew,
+Which with that vast Assassination flew
+Two hundred thousand Butcher'd Victims shar'd
+One common doom: No Sex nor Age was spar'd:
+Not kneeling Beauties Tears, not Virgins Cries,
+Nor Infants Smiles: No prey so small but dies.
+Alas, the hard-mouth'd Blood-hound, Zeal, bites through;
+Religion hunts, and hungry Jaws pursue.
+To what strange Rage is Superstition driven,
+That Man can outdo Hell to fight for Heav'n!
+So Rebel _Geshur_ fought: so drown'd in gore,
+Even Mother Earth blusht at the Sons she bore;
+And still asham'd of her old staining Brand,
+Her Head shrinks down and Quagmires half their Land.
+Yet not this blow _Baals_ Empire could enlarge
+For _Israel_ still was Heav'ns peculiar charge:
+Unshaken still in all this Scene of Blood,
+Truths Temple firm on Golden Columns stood.
+Whilst _Sauls_ Revenging Arm proud _Geshur_ scourg'd,
+From their rank soyl their _Hydra's_ poyson purg'd.
+
+  Yet does not here their vanquish'd spleen give o're,
+But as untir'd, and restless as before,
+Still through whole waiting Ages they outdo
+At once the Chimists pains and patience too.
+Who though he sees his bursting Limbecks crack,
+And at one blast, one fatal Minutes wrack,
+The forward Hopes of sweating years expire;
+With sad, yet painful hand new lights his Fire:
+Pale, lean, and wan, does Health, Wealth, all consume;
+Yet for the great Elixir still to come,
+Toyls and hopes on. No less their Plottings cease;
+So hope, so toyl, the foes of _Israels_ peace.
+
+  When lo, a long expected day appears,
+Sought for above a hundred rowling years;
+A day i'th' register of Doom set down,
+Presents 'em with an Heir of _Israels_ Crown.
+Here their vast hopes of the rich _Israels_ spoils,
+Requites the pains of their long Ages Toyls.
+_Baals_ Banners now i'th' face of day shall march,
+With Heav'ns bright Roof for his Triumphal Arch.
+His lurking Missioners shall now no more
+From Forreign Schools in borrow'd shapes come o're;
+Convert by Moon-light, and their Mystick Rites
+Preach to poor Female half-Soul'd Proselytes.
+An all-commanding Dragon now shall soar,
+Where the poor Serpents onely crawl'd before.
+_Baals_ Restoration, that most blest Design, }
+Now the great work of Majesty, shall shine,  }
+Made by his consecrating hand Divine.        }
+He shall new plant their Groves with each blest Tree,
+A graft of an Imperial Nursery.
+In the kind Air of this new _Eden_ blest,
+Percht on each bough, and Palaces their nest;
+No more by frighting Laws forc'd t'obscure flight,
+And gloomy walks, like obscene Birds of Night;
+Their warbling Notes like _Philomel_ shall sing,
+And like the Bird of _Paradise_ their wing.
+Thus _Israels_ Heir their ravisht Souls all fired;
+For all things to their ardent hopes conspired.
+
+  His very youth a Bigot Mother bred,
+And tainted even the Milk on which he fed.
+Him onely of her Sons design'd for _Baals_
+Great Champion 'gainst _Jerusalems_ proud Walls;
+Him dipt in _Stygian_ Lake, by timely craft,
+Invulnerable made against Truths pointed shaft.
+But to confirm his early poyson'd Faith,
+'Twas in the cursed Forreign Tents of _Gath_,
+'Twas there that he was lost. There _Absolon_
+By _Davids_ fatal Banishment undone,
+Saw their false Gods till in their Fires he burn'd,
+Truths Manna, for _Egyptian_ Fleshpots, scorn'd.
+Not _David_ so; for he Faiths Champion Lord,
+Their Altars loath'd, and prophane Rites abhorr'd:
+Whilst his firm Soul on wings of _Cherubs_ rod,
+And tun'd his Lyre to nought but _Abrahams_ God.
+Thus the gay _Israel_ her long Tears quite dry'd,
+Her restor'd _David_ met in all her Pride,
+Three Brothers saw by Miracle brought back,
+Like _Noahs_ Sons sav'd from the worlds great wrack;
+An unbelieving _Ham_ graced on each hand,
+'Twixt God-like _Shem_, and pious _Japhet_ stand.
+
+  'Tis true, when _David_, all his storms blown o're,
+Wafted by Prodigies to _Jordans_ shore,
+(So swift a Revolution, yet so calm)
+Had cur'd an Ages wounds with one days Balm;
+Here the returning _Absolon_ his vows
+With _Israel_ joyns, and at their Altars bows.
+Perhaps surpriz'd at such strange blessings showr'd,
+Such wonders shewn both t'_Israels_ Faith, and Lord,
+His Restoration-Miracle he thought
+Could by no less than _Israels_ God be wrought.
+Whilst the enlightened _Absolon_ thus kneels,
+Thus dancing to the sound of _Aarons_ Bells,
+What dazling Rays did _Israels_ Heir adorn,
+So bright his Sun in his unclouded Morn!
+'Twas then his leading hand in Battle drew
+That Sword that _Davids_ fam'd ten thousand slew:
+_Davids_ the Cause, but _Absolons_ the Arm.
+Then he could win all Hearts, all Tongues could charm:
+Whilst with his praise the ecchoing plains all rung,
+A thousand Timbrels play'd, a thousand Virgins sung;
+And in the zeal of every jocund Soul,
+_Absolons_ Health with _Davids_ crown'd one Bowl.
+
+  Had he fixt here, yes, Fate, had he fixt here,
+To Man so Sacred, and to Heav'n so dear,
+What could he want that Hands, Hearts, Lives could pay,
+Or Tributary Worlds beneath his feet could lay?
+What Knees, what Necks to mount him to his Throne;
+What Gems, what Stars to sparkle in his Crown?
+So pleas'd, so charm'd, had _Israels_ Genius smil'd;
+But oh the Pow'rs, by treacherous snakes beguil'd,
+Into a more than _Adams_ Curse he run,
+Tasting that Fruit has _Israels_ World undone.
+Nay, wretched even below his falling state,
+Wants _Adams_ Eyes to see his _Adams_ Fate.
+In vain was _Davids_ Harp and _Israels_ Quire;
+For his Conversion all in vain conspire:
+For though their influence a while retires,
+His own false Planets were th'Ascendant Fires.
+Heav'n had no lasting Miracle design'd;
+It did a while his fatal Torrent bind.
+As _Joshua's_ Wand did _Jordan's_ streams divide,
+And rang'd the watry Mountains on each side.
+But when the marching _Israel_ once got o're,    }
+Down crack the Chrystal Walls the Billows pow'r, }
+And in their old impetuous Channel roar.         }
+
+  At this last stroke thus totally o'rethrown,
+Apostasie now seal'd him all her own.
+Here ope'd that gaping Breach, that fatal door,
+Which now let in a thousand Ruines more.
+All the bright Virtues, and each dazling Grace,
+Which his rich Veins drew from a God-like Race;
+The Mercy, and the Clemency Divine,
+Those Sacred Beams which in mild _David_ shine;
+Those Royal Sparks, his Native Seeds of Light,
+Were all put out, and left a Starless Night.
+A long farewel to all that's Great and Brave:
+Not Cataracts more headstrong; as the Grave
+Inexorable; Sullen and Untun'd
+As Pride depos'd; scarce _Lucifer_ dethron'd
+More Unforgiving; his enchanted Soul
+Had drank so deep of the bewitching Bowl,
+Till he whose hand, with _Judahs_ Standart, bore
+Her Martial Thunder to the _Tyrian_ shore,
+Arm'd in her Wars, and in her Laurels crown'd;
+Now all forgotten at one stagg'ring wound,
+Falling from _Israels_ Faith; from _Israels_ Cause,
+Peace, Honour, Int'rest, all at once withdraws:
+Nor is he deaf t'a Kingdoms Groans alone,
+But could behold ev'n _Davids_ shaking Throne;
+_David_, whose Bounty rais'd his glittering Pride,
+The Basis of his Glories Pyramide.
+But Duty, Gratitude, all ruin'd fall:
+Zeal blazes, and Oblivion swallows all.
+So _Sodom_ did both burnt and drown'd expire;
+A poyson'd Lake succeeds a Pile of Fire.
+
+  On this Foundation _Baals_ last Hope was built,
+The sure Retreat for all their Sallying Guilt:
+A Royal Harbour, where the rowling Pride
+Of _Israels_ Foes might safe at Anchor ride;
+Defie all Dangers, and even Tempests scorn,
+Though _Judahs_ God should Thunder in the Storm.
+
+  Here _Israels_ Laws, the dull Levitick Rolls,
+At once a clog to Empire, and to Souls,
+Are the first Martyrs to the Fire they doom,
+To make great _Baals_ Triumphant Legends room.
+But ere their hands this glorious work can Crown,
+Their long-known Foe the Sanedrin must down;
+Sanedrins the Free-born _Israels_ Sacred Right,
+That God-like Ballance of Imperial Might;
+Where Subjects are from Tyrant-Lords set free,
+_From that wild Thing unbounded man would be_;
+Where Pow'r and Clemency are poys'd so even,
+A Constitution that resembles Heav'n.
+So in th'united great THREE-ONE we find
+A Saving with a Dooming Godhead joyn'd.
+(But why, oh why! if such restraining pow'r
+Can bind Omnipotence, should Kings wish more?)
+A Constitution, so Divinely mixt,
+Not Natures bounded Elements more fixt.
+Thus Earths vast Frame with firm and solid ground, }
+Stands in a foaming Ocean circled round;           }
+Yet This not overflowing, That not drown'd.        }
+But to rebuild their Altars, and enstal
+Their Moulten Gods, the Sanedrin must fall;
+That Constellation of the Jewish Pow'r,
+All blotted from its Orb must shine no more;
+Or stampt in _Pharoahs_ darling Mould, must quit
+Their Native Beams, for a new-model'd Light;
+Like _Egypts_ Sanedrins, their influence gone,
+Flash but like empty Meteors round the Throne:
+That that new Lord may _Judahs_ Scepter weild,
+To whom th'old Brickill Taskmasters must yield;
+Who, to erect new Temples for his Gods,
+Shall th'enslav'd _Israel_ drive with Iron Rods;
+If they want Bricks for his new Walls t'aspire,
+To their sad cost, he'll find 'em Straw and Fire.
+
+  All this t'effect, and their new Fabrick build,
+Both close Cabals and Forreign Leagues are held:
+To _Babylon_ and _Egypt_ they send o're,
+And both their Conduct and their Gold implore.
+By such Abettors the sly Game was plaid;
+One of their Chiefs a Jewish Renegade,
+High-born in _Israel_, one _Michals_ Priest,
+But now in _Babylons_ proud Scarlet drest.
+'Tis to his Hands the Plotting Mandats come
+Subscrib'd by the Apostate _Absolom_.
+Nay, and to keep themselves all danger-proof,
+That none might track the _Belial_ by his Hoof,
+Their Correspondence veil'd from prying Eyes,
+In Hieroglyphick Figures they disguise.
+Husht as the Night, in which their Plots combin'd,
+And silent as the Graves they had design'd,
+Their Ripening Mischiefs to perfection sprung.
+But oh! the much-loath'd _David_ lives too long.
+Their Vultures cannot mount but from his Tomb;
+And with too hungry ravenous Gorges come,
+To be by airy Expectation fed.
+No Prey, no Spoil, before they see Him Dead.
+Yes, Dead; the Royal Sands too slowly pass,
+And therefore they're resolved to break the Glass:
+And to ensure Times tardy dubious Call,
+Decree their Daggers should his Sythe forestall.
+For th'execrable Deed a Hireling Crew
+Their Hell and They pick out; whom to make true,
+An Oath of Force so exquisite they frame,
+Sworn in the Blood of _Israels_ Paschal Lamb.
+If false, the Vengeance of that Sword that slew
+_Egypts_ First-born, their perjur'd Heads pursue.
+Strong was the Oath, the Imprecation dire;
+And for a Viand, lest their Guilt should tire,
+With promis'd Paradice they cheer their way;
+And bold's the Souldier who has Heav'n his pay.
+
+  But the ne'r-sleeping Providence that stands
+With jealous Eyes o're Truths up-lifted Hands;
+That still in its Lord _Israel_ takes delight,
+Their Cloud by Day, and Guardian Fire by Night;
+A Ray from out its Fiery Pillar cast,
+That overlook'd their driving _Jehu_'s hast.
+All's ruin'd and betray'd: their own false Slaves            }
+Detect the Plot, and dig their Masters Graves:               }
+Not Oaths nor Bribes shall bind, when great _Jehovah_ saves. }
+The frighted _Israelites_ take the Alarm,
+Resolve the Traitors Sorceries t'uncharm:
+Till cursing, raving, mad, and drunk with Rage,
+In _Amnons_ Blood their frantick Hands engage.
+
+  Here let the Ghost of strangl'd _Amnon_ come,
+A Specter that will strike Amazement dumb;
+_Amnon_ the Proto-Martyr of the Plot,
+The Murder'd _Amnon_, their Eternal Blot;
+Whose too bold zeal stood like a _Pharos_ Light,
+_Israel_ to warn, and track their Deeds of Night.
+Till the sly Foe his unseen Game to play,
+Put out the Beacon to secure his way.
+_Baals_ Cabinet-Intrigues he open spread,
+The Ravisht _Tamar_ for whose sake he bled.
+T'unveil their Temple and expose their Gods,
+Deserv'd their vengeances severest Rods:
+Wrath he deserv'd, and had the Vial full,
+To lay those Devils had possest his Soul.
+His silenc'd Fiends from his wrung Neck they twist;
+Whilst his kind Murd'rer's but his Exorcist.
+Here draw, bold Painter, (if thy Pencil dare
+Unshaking write, what _Israel_ quak'd to hear,)
+A Royal Altar pregnant with a Load
+Of Humane Bones beneath a Breaden God.
+Altars so rich not _Molocks_ Temples show;
+'Twas Heaven above, and _Golgotha_ below.
+Yet are not all the Mystick Rites yet done:
+Their pious Fury does not stop so soon.
+But to pursue the loud-tongu'd Wounds they gave,
+Resolves to stab his Fame beyond the Grave,
+And in Eternal Infamy to brand
+With _Amnons_ Murder, _Amnons_ righteous Hand.
+Here with a Bloodless wound, by Hellish Art,
+With his own Sword they goar his Lifeless Heart.
+Thus in a Ditch the butcher'd _Amnon_ lay,
+A Deed of Night enough to have kept back the Day.
+Had not the Sun in Sacred vengeance rose,
+Asham'd to see, but prouder to disclose,
+Warm'd with new Fires, with all his posting speed,
+Brought Heav'ns bright Lamp to shew th'Infernal Deed.
+
+  What art thou, Church! when Faith to propagate,
+And crush all Bars that stop thy growing state,
+Thou break'st through Natures, Gods, and Humane Laws,
+Whilst Murder's Merit in a Churches Cause.
+How much thy Ladder _Jacobs_ does excel:
+Whose Top's in Heaven like His, but Foot in Hell;
+Thy Causes bloody Champions to befriend,
+For Fiends to Mount, as Angels to Descend.
+
+  This was the stroke did th'alarm'd World surprize,
+And even to infidelity lent Eyes:
+Whilst sweating _Absolon_ in _Israel_ pent,
+For fresher Air was to bleak _Hebron_ sent.
+Cold _Hebron_ warm'd by his approaching sight,
+Flusht with his Gold, and glow'd with new delight.
+Till Sacred all-converting Interest
+To Loyalty, their almost unknown Guest,
+Oped a broad Gate, from whence forth-issuing come,
+Decrees, Tests, Oaths, for well-sooth'd _Absolom_.
+Spight of that Guilt that made even Angels fall,
+An unbarr'd Heir shall Reign: In spight of all
+Apostacy from Heav'n, or Natures tyes,
+Though for his Throne a _Cain_-built Palace rise.
+No wonder _Hebron_ such Devotion bears
+T'Imperial Dignity, and Royal Heirs;
+For they, whom Chronicle so high renowns
+For selling Kings, should know the price of Crowns.
+
+  Here, Glorious _Hushai_, let me mourn thy Fate,
+Thou once great Pillar of the _Hebron_ State:
+Yet now to Dungeons sent, and doom'd t'a Grave.
+But Chains are no new Sufferings to the Brave.
+Witness thy pains in six years Bonds endur'd,
+For _Israels_ Faith, and _Davids_ Cause immur'd.
+Death too thou oft for _Judahs_ Crown hast stood,
+So bravely fac'd in several Fields of Blood.
+But from Fames Pinnacle now headlong cast,
+Life, Honour, all are ruin'd at a Blast.
+For _Absolons_ great LAW thou durst explain;
+Where but to pry, bold Lord, was to prophane:
+A Law that did his Mystick God-head couch,
+Like th'Ark of God, and no less Death to touch.
+Forgot are now thy Honourable Scars,
+Thy Loyal Toyls, and Wounds in _Judahs_ Wars.
+Had thy pil'd Trophies _Babel_-high, reacht Heav'n,
+Yet by one stroke from _Absolons_ Thunder given,
+Thy towring Glorie's levell'd to the ground;    }
+A stroke does all thy Tongues of Fame confound, }
+And, Traitor, now is all the Voice they sound.  }
+True, thou hadst Law; that even thy Foes allow;
+But to thy Advocates, as damn'd as Thou,
+'Twas Death to plead it. Artless _Absolon_
+The Bloody Banner to display so soon:
+Such killing Beams from thy young Day-break shot;
+What will the Noon be, if the Morn's so hot?
+Yes, dreadful Heir, the Coward _Hebron_ awe.
+So the young Lion tries his tender Paw.
+At a poor Herd of feeble Heifers flies,
+Ere the rough Bear, tusk'd Boar, or spotted Leopard dies.
+Thus flusht, great Sir, thy strength in _Israel_ try:
+When their Cow'd Sanedrims shall prostrate lye,
+And to thy feet their slavish Necks shall yield;
+Then raign the Princely Savage of the Field.
+
+  Yes, _Israels_ Sanedrin, 'twas they alone
+That set too high a Value on a Throne;
+Thought they had a God was Worthy to be serv'd;
+A Faith maintain'd, and Liberty preserv'd.
+And therefore judg'd, for Safety and Renown
+Of _Israels_ People, Altars, Laws and Crown,
+Th'Anointing Drops on Royal Temples shed
+Too precious Showrs for an Apostates Head.
+Then was that great Deliberate Councel giv'n,
+An Act of Justice both to Man and Heav'n,
+_Israels_ conspiring Foes to overthrow,
+That _Absolon_ should th'Hopes of Crowns forego.
+Debarr'd Succession! oh that dismal sound!
+A sound, at which _Baal_ stagger'd, and Hell groan'd;
+A sound that with such dreadful Thunder falls,
+'Twas heard even to _Semiramis_ trembling Walls.
+
+  But hold! is this the Plots last Murd'ring Blow,
+The dire divorce of Soul and Body? No.
+The mangled Snake, yet warm, to Life they'll bring,
+And each disjoynted Limb together cling.
+Then thus _Baals_ wise consulting Prophets cheer'd
+Their pensive Sons, and call'd the scatter'd Herd.
+
+  Are we quite ruin'd! No, mistaken Doom,
+Still the great Day, yes that great Day shall come,
+(Oh, rouse our fainting Sons, and droop no more.)
+A Day, whose Luster, our long Clouds blown o're,
+Not all the Rage of _Israel_ shall annoy,
+No, nor denouncing Sanedrims destroy.
+See yon North-Pole, and mark _Booetes Carr_:
+Oh! we have those Influencing Aspects there,
+Those Friendly pow'rs that drive in that bright _Wain_,
+Shall redeem All, and our lost Ground regain.
+Whilst to our Glory their kind Aid stands fast,
+But one Plot more, our Greatest and our Last.
+
+  Now for a Product of that subtle kind,
+As far above their former Births refin'd,
+As Firmamental Fires t'a Tapers ray,
+Or Prodigies to Natures common Clay.
+Empires in Blood, or Cities in a Flame,
+Are work for vulgar Hands, scarce worth a Name.
+A Cake of _Shew-bread_ from an Altar ta'ne,
+Mixt but with some Levitical King-bane,
+Has sent a Martyr'd Monarch to his Grave.
+Nay, a poor Mendicant Church-Rake-hell slave
+Has stab'd Crown'd Heads; slight Work to hands well-skill'd,
+Slight as the Pebble that _Goliah_ kill'd.
+But to make Plots no Plots, to clear all Taints,
+Traitors transform to Innocents, Fiends to Saints,
+Reason to Nonsence, Truth to Perjury;
+Nay, make their own attesting Records lye,
+And even the gaping Wounds of Murder whole:
+If this last Masterpiece requires a Soul.
+Guilt to unmake, and Plots annihilate,
+Is much a greater work than to create.
+Nay both at once to be, and not to be,
+Is such a Task would pose a Deity.
+Let _Baal_ do this, and be a God indeed:
+Yes, this Immortal Honour 'tis decreed,
+His Sanguine Robe though dipt in reeking Gore,
+With purity and Innocence all o're,
+Shall dry, and spotless from the purple hue,
+The Miracle of _Gideons_ Fleece outdo.
+Yes, they're resolv'd, in all their foes despight,
+To wash their more than _Ethiop_ Treason White.
+
+  But now for Heads to manage the Design,
+Fit Engineers to labour in this Mine.
+For their own hands 'twere fatal to employ:
+Should _Baal_ appear, it would _Baals_ Cause destroy.
+Alas, should onely their own Trumpets sound
+Their Innocence, the jealous Ears around
+All Infidels would the loath'd Charmer fly,
+And through the Angels voice the Fiend descry.
+No, this last game wants a new plotting Set,
+And _Israel_ only now can _Israel_ cheat.
+In this Machine their profest Foes must move,
+Whilst _Baal_ absconding sits in Clouds above,
+From whence unseen he guides their bidden way:
+For he may prompt, although he must not play.
+This to effect a sort of Tools they find,
+Devotion-Rovers, an Amphibious Kind,
+Of no Religion, yet like Walls of Steel
+Strong for the Altars where their Princes kneel.
+Imperial not Celestial is their Test,
+The Uppermost, indisputably Best.
+They always in the golden Chariot rod,
+Honour their Heav'n, and Interest their God.
+
+  Of these then subtil _Caleb_ none more Great,
+_Caleb_ who shines where his lost Father set;
+Got by that sire, who not content alone,    }
+To shade the brightest Jewel in a Crown,    }
+Preaching Ingratitude t'a Court and Throne; }
+But made his Politicks the baneful Root
+From whence the springing Woes of _Israel_ shoot,
+When his Great Masters fatal _Gordian_ tyed,
+He lai'd the barren _Michal_ by his side;
+That the ador'd _Absolons_ immortal Line
+Might on _Judeas_ Throne for ever shine.
+_Caleb_, who does that hardy Pilot make,  }
+Steering in that Hereditary Track,        }
+Blind to the Sea-Mark of a Fathers Wrack. }
+
+  Next _Jonas_ stands bull-fac'd, but chicken-soul'd,
+Who once the silver Sanedrin Controul'd,
+Their Gold-tip'd Tongue; Gold his great Councels Bawd:
+Till by succeeding Sanedrins outlaw'd,
+He was prefer'd to guard the sacred Store:
+There Lordly rowling in whole Mines of Oar;
+To Diceing Lords, a Cully-Favourite,
+He prostitutes whole _Cargoes_ in a Night.
+Here to the Top of his Ambition come,
+Fills all his Sayls for hopeful _Absolom._
+For his Religion's as the Season calls,
+Gods in Possession, in Reversion _Baals._
+He bears himself a Dove to Mortal Race,
+And though not Man, he can look Heav'n i'th' Face.
+Never was Compound of more different Stuff,
+A Heart in Lambskin, and a Conscience Buff.
+
+  Let not that Hideous Bulk of Honour scape,
+_Nadab_ that sets the gazing Crowd agape:
+That old Kirk-founder, whose course Croak could sing
+The Saints, the Cause, no Bishop, and no King:
+When Greatness clear'd his Throat, and scowr'd his Maw,
+Roard out Succession, and the Penal Law.
+Not so of old: another sound went forth,
+When in the Region from _Judea_ North,
+By the Triumphant _Saul_ he was employ'd,
+A huge fang Tusk to goar poor _Davids_ side.
+Like a Proboscis in the Tyrants Jaw,
+To rend and root through Government and Law.
+His hand that Hell-penn'd League of _Belial_ drew, }
+That Swore down Kings, Religion overthrew,         }
+Great _David_ banisht, and Gods Prophets slew.     }
+Nor does the Courts long Sun so powerful shine,
+T'exhale his Vapours, or his Dross refine;
+Nor is the Metal mended by the stamp.
+With his rank oyl he feeds the Royal Lamp.
+To Sanedrins an everlasting Foe,
+Resolv'd his Mighty Hunters overthrow.
+And true to Tyranny, as th'only Jem,
+That truly sparkles in a Diadem;
+To _Absalons_ side does his old _Covenant_ bring,
+With _State_ raz'd out, and interlin'd with KING.
+But _Nadabs_ Zeal has too severe a Doom;
+Whilst serving an ungrateful _Absalom_,
+His strength all spent his Greatness to create,
+He's now laid by a cast-out Drone of State.
+He rowz'd that Game by which he is undone,
+By fleeter Coursers now so far outrun,
+That fiercer Mightier _Nimrod_ in the Chace,
+Till quite thrown out, and lost he quits the Race.
+
+  Of Low-born Tools we bawling _Shimei_ saw,
+_Jerusalems_ late loud-tongu'd MOUTH of Law.
+By Blessings from Almighty Bounty given,
+_Shimei_ no common Favorite of Heaven.
+Whom, lest Posterity should loose the Breed,
+In five short Moons indulgent Heav'n rais'd Seed;
+Made happy in an Early teeming Bride,
+And laid a lovely Heiress by her side.
+Whilst the glad Father's so divinely blest,    }
+That like the Stag proud of his Brow so drest, }
+He brandishes his lofty City-Crest.            }
+'Twas in _Jerusalem_ was _Shimei_ nurst,
+_Jerusalem_ by _Baals_ Prophets ever curst,
+The greatest Block that stops 'em in their way,
+For which she once in Dust and Ashes lay.
+Here to the Bar this whiffling Lurcher came,
+And barkt to rowze the nobler Hunters Game.
+But _Shimei's_ Lungs might well be stretcht so far;
+For steering by a Court-Ascendant Star,
+For daily Oracles he does address,
+To the _Egyptian_ Beauteous Sorceress.
+For _Pharoah_ when he wisely did essay
+To bear the long-sought Golden Prize away,
+That fair Enchantress sent, whose Magick Skill
+Should keep great _Israels_ sleeping Dragon still.
+Thus by her powerful inspirations fed,            }
+To bite their Heels this City-Snake was bred,     }
+Till _Absalon_ got strength to bruise their Head. }
+Of all the Heroes since the world began,
+To _Shimei Joshuah_ was the bravest Man.
+To Him his Tutelar Saint he prays, and oh,
+That great _Jerusalem_ were like _Jericoh_!
+Then bellowing lowd for _Joshuahs_ Spirit calls,
+Because his Rams-horn blew down City-Walls.
+
+  In the same Roll have we grave _Corah_ seen,
+_Corah_, the late chief Scarlet _Abbethdin_.
+_Corah_, who luckily i'th' Bench was got,
+To loo the Bloodhounds off to save the Plot.
+_Corah_, who once against _Baals_ Impious Cause,
+Stood strong for _Israels_ Faith and _Davids_ Laws.
+He poys'd his Scales, and shook his ponderous Sword,
+Lowd as his Fathers _Basan_-Bulls he roar'd;
+Till by a Dose of Forreign _Ophir_ drencht,
+The Feavour of his Burning Zeal was Quencht.
+_Ophir_, that rescu'd the Court-Drugsters Fate,
+Sent in the Nick to gild his Pills of State.
+Whilst the kind Skill of our Law-Emperick,
+Sublim'd his Mercury to save his Neck.
+In Law, they say, he had but a slender Mite,
+And Sense he had less: for as Historians write,
+The _Arabian_ Legate laid a Snare so gay,
+As Spirited his little Wits away.
+Of the Records of Law he fancied none
+Like the Commandment Tables graved in Stone.
+And wish'd the _Talmude_ such, that Soveraign sway
+When once displeased might th'angry _Moses_ play.
+Onely his Law was Brittle i'th' wrong place:
+For had our _Corah_ been in _Moses_ Case,
+The Fury of his Zeal had been employ'd
+To build that Calf which th'others Rage destroy'd.
+Thus _Corah, Baals_ true Fayry Changeling made,
+He Bleated onely as the _Pharisees_ pray'd,
+All to advance that future Tyrant pow'r,
+Should Widows Houses gorge, and Orphans Tears devour.
+
+  Nor are these all their Instruments; to prop
+Their Mighty Cause, and _Israels_ Murmurs stop;
+They find a sort of Academick Tools;
+Who by the Politick Doctrine of their Schools,
+Betwixt Reward, Pride, Avarice, Hope and Fear,
+Prizing their Heav'n too cheap, the World too dear,
+Stand bold and strong for _Absolons_ Defence:
+Interest the Thing, but Conscience the Pretence.
+These to ensure him for their _Sions_ King,
+A Right Divine quite down from _Adam_ bring,
+That old Levitick Engine of Renown,
+That makes no Taint of Souls a bar t'a Crown.
+'Tis true, Religions constant Champion vow'd,
+Each open-mouth'd, with Pulpit-Thunder lowd,
+Against false Gods, and Idol Temples bawls;
+Yet lays the very Stones that raise their Walls.
+They preach up Hell to those that _Baal_ adore,
+Yet make't Damnation to oppose his pow'r.
+So far this Paradox of Conscience run,
+Till _Israels_ Faith pulls _Israels_ Altars down.
+Grant Heav'n they don't to _Baal_ so far make way,
+Those fatal _Wands_ before their Sheepfolds lay.
+Such Motley Principles amongst them thrown,
+Shall nurse that Py-ball'd Flock that's half his own.
+Nor may they say, when _Molocks_ Hands draw nigher,
+We built the Pile, whilst _Baal_ but gives it fire.
+
+  If Monarchy in _Adam_ first begun,
+When the Worlds Monarch dug, and his Queen spun,
+His Fig-leaves his first Coronation-Robe,
+His Spade his Scepter, and her Wheel his Globe;
+And Royal Birthright, as their Schools assert,
+Not Kings themselves with Conscience can divert;
+How came the World possest by _Adams_ Sons,
+Such various Principalities, Powres, Thrones?
+When each went out and chose what Lands he pleas'd,
+Whilst a new Family new Kingdoms rais'd?
+His Sons assuming what he could not give,          }
+Their Soveraign Sires right Heir they did deprive; }
+And from Rebellion all their pow'r derive:         }
+For were there an original Majesty          }
+Upheld by Right Divine, the World should be }
+Onely one Universal Monarchy.               }
+O cruel Right Divine, more full of Fate,
+Then th' Angels flaming Sword at _Edens_ Gate,
+Such early Treason through Mankind convey'd,
+And at the door of Infant-Nature layd.
+For Right Divine in _Esau's_ just defence,
+Why don't they quarrel with Omnipotence,
+The first-born _Esau's_ Right to _Jacob_ giv'n,
+And Gods gift too, Injustice charge on Heav'n.
+Nay, let Heav'n answer this one Fact alone,
+Mounting a Bastard _Jephtha_ on a Throne.
+If Kings and Sanedrims those Laws could make,
+Which from offending Heirs their Heads can take;
+And a First-born can forfeit Life and Throne,
+And all by Law: why not a Crown alone?
+Strange-bounded Law-makers! whose pow'r can throw
+The deadlier Bolt, can't give the weaker Blow.
+A Treasonous Act; nay, but a Treasonous Breath
+Against offended Majesty is Death.
+But, oh! the wondrous Church-distinction given
+Between the Majesty of Kings and Heav'n!
+The venial sinner here, he that intreagues
+With _Egypt, Babylon_; Cabals, Plots, Leagues
+With _Israels_ Foes her Altars to destroy,
+A Hair untouch'd, shall Health, Peace, Crowns enjoy.
+
+  Truths Temple thus the Exhalations bred
+From her own Bowels, to obscure her Head.
+And _Absolom_ already had subdu'd
+Whole Crowds of the unthinking Multitude.
+But through these Wiles too weak to catch the Wise,
+Thin as their Ephod-Lawn, a Cobweb Net for Flyes,
+The searching Sanedrim saw; and to dispel
+Th'ingendring Mists that threatned _Israel_,
+They still resolv'd their Plotting Foes defeat,
+By barring _Absolon_ th'Imperial Seat.
+
+  But here's his greatest Tug; could he but make
+Th'encluding Sanedrims Resolves once shake;
+Nay, make the smallest Breach, or clashing Jar,
+In their great Councel, push but home so far,
+And the great Point's secur'd.----And, lo! among
+The Princely Heads of that Illustrious Throng,
+He saw rich Veins with Noble Blood new fill'd;
+Others who Honour from Dependance held.
+Some with exhausted Fortunes, to support
+Their Greatness, propt with Crutches from a Court.
+These for their Countries Right their Votes still pass,
+Mov'd like the Water in a Weather-glass,
+Higher or lower, as the powerful Charm
+O'th' Soveraign Hand is either cool or warm.
+Here must th'Attacque be made: for well we know,
+Reason and Titles from one Fountain flow:
+Whilst Favour Men no less than Fortunes builds,
+And Honour ever Moulds as well as Guilds.
+Honour that still does even new Souls inspire;
+Honour more powerful than the Heav'n-stoln Fire.
+These must be wrought to _Absolons_ Defence.
+For though to baffle the whole Sanedrims Sence,
+T'attempt Impossibles would be in vain,
+Yet 'tis enough but to _Divide_ and _Raign_.
+
+  Here though small Force such easie Converts draws,
+Yet 'tis thought fit in glory to their Cause,
+Some learned Champion of prodigious Sense,
+With Mighty and long studyed Eloquence,
+Should with a kind of Inspiration rise,
+And the unguarded Sanedrim surprize,
+And such resistless conquering Reasons press,         }
+To charm their vanquisht Souls, that the Success      }
+Might look like Conscience, though 'tis nothing less. }
+
+  For this Design no Head nor Tongue so well,
+As that of the profound _Achitophel_.
+How, great _Achitophel_! his Hand, his Tongue!
+_Babylons_ Mortal Foe; he who so long
+With haughty Sullenness, and scornful Lowr,
+Had loath'd false Gods, and Arbitrary pow'r.
+'Gainst _Baal_ no Combatant more fierce than he;
+For _Israels_ asserted Liberty,
+No Man more bold; with generous Rage enflam'd,
+Against the old ensnaring Test declaim'd.
+Beside, he bore a most peculiar Hate
+To sleeping Pilots, all Earth-clods of State.
+None more abhorr'd the Sycophant Buffoon,
+And Parasite, th'excrescence of a Throne;
+Creatures who their creating Sun disgrace,
+A Brood more abject than _Niles_ Slime-born Race.
+Such was the Brave _Achitophel_; a Mind,
+(If but the Heart and Face were of a kind)
+So far from being by one base Thought deprav'd,
+That sure half ten such Souls had _Sodom_ sav'd.
+Here _Baals_ Cabal _Achitophel_ survey'd,
+And dasht with wonder, half despairing said,
+Is this the Hand that _Absolon_ must Crown,
+The Founder of his Temples, Palace, Throne?
+This, This the mighty Convert we must make?
+Gods, h'has a Soul not all our Arts can shake.
+
+  At this a nicer graver Head stept out,
+And with this Language chid their groundless Doubt:
+For shame, no more; what is't that frights you thus?
+Is it his Hatred of our God, and us,
+Makes him so formidable in your Eye?
+Or is't his Wit, Sense, Honour, Bravery?
+Give him a thousand Virtues more, and plant
+Them round him like a Wall of Adamant,
+Strong as the Gates of Heaven; we'll reach his Heart:
+Cheer, cheer, my Friends, I've found one Mortal part.
+For he has _Pride_, a vast insatiate _Pride_,
+Kind Stark, he's vulnerable on that side.
+Pride that made Angels fall, and pride that hurl'd
+Entayl'd Destruction through a ruin'd World.
+_Adam_ from Pride to Disobedience ran:
+To be like Gods, made a lost wretched Man.
+There, there, my Sons, let our pour'd strength all fly:
+For some bold Tempter now to rap him high,
+From Pinnacles to Mountain Top, and show
+The gaudy Glories of the World below.
+
+  At which the Consult came to this Design,
+To work him by a kind of Touch Divine.
+To raise some holy Spright to do the Feat.
+Nothing like Dreams and Visions to the Great.
+Did not a little Witch of _Endor_ bring
+A Visionary Seer t'a cheated King?
+And shall their greater Magick want Success,
+Their more Illustrious Sorceries do less!
+
+  This final Resolution made, at last
+Some Mystick words, and invocations past,
+They call'd the Spirit of a late Court-Scribe;
+Once a true Servant of the Plotting Tribe:
+When both with Forreign and Domestick Cost,
+He plaid the feasted Sanedrims kind Host.
+H'had scribbled much, and like a Patriot bold,
+Bid high for _Israels_ Peace with _Egypts_ Gold.
+But since a Martyr. (Why! as Writers think,
+His Masters Hand had over-gall'd his Ink.)
+And by protesting _Absoloms_ wise care,
+Popt into Brimstone ere he was aware.
+Him from the Grave they rais'd, in ample kind,
+His sever'd Head to his seer Quarters joyn'd;
+Then cas'd his Chin in a false Beard so well,
+As made him pass for Father _Samuel_.
+Him thus equipt in a Religious Cloak,
+They thus his new-made Reverence bespoke.
+
+  Go, awful Spright, hast to _Achitophel_,
+Rouze his great Soul, use every Art, Charm, Spell:
+For _Absolom_ thy utmost Rhetorick try,
+Preach him Succession, roar'd Succession cry,
+Succession drest in all her glorious pride,
+Succession Worshipt, Sainted, Deify'd.
+Conjure him by Divine and Humane Pow'rs,
+Convince, Convert, Confound, make him but ours,
+That _Absolon_ may mount on _Judahs_ Throne,
+Whilst all the World before us is our own.
+
+  The forward Spright but few Instructions lackt,
+Strait by the Moons pale light away he packt,
+And in a trice, his Curtains open'd wide,
+He sate him by _Achitophels_ Bed-side.
+And in this style his artful Accents ran.
+
+  Hear _Israels_ Hope, thou more than happy Man,
+Beloved on high, witness this Honour done
+By Father _Samuel_, and believe me, Son,
+'Tis by no common Mandate of a God,
+A Soul beatifyed, the blest Abode
+Thus low deserting, quits Immortal Thrones,
+And from his Grave resumes his sleeping Bones.
+But Heavn's the Guide, and wondrous is the way,
+Divine the Embassie: hear, and obey.
+How long, _Achitophel_, and how profound
+A Mist of Hell has thy lost Reason drown'd?
+Can the Apostacy from _Israels_ Faith,
+In _Israels_ Heir, deserve a murmuring Breath?
+Or to preserve Religion, Liberty,
+Peace, Nations, Souls, is that a Cause so high,
+As the Right Heir from Empire to debar?
+Forbid it Heav'n, and guard him every Star.
+Alas, what if an Heir of Royal Race,
+Gods Glory and his Temples will deface,
+And make a prey of your Estates, Lives, Laws;
+Nay, give your Sons to _Molocks_ burning paws;
+Shall you exclude him? hold that Impious Hand.
+As _Abraham_ gave his Son at Gods Command,
+Think still he does by _Divine Right_ succeed:
+God bids Him Reign, and you should bid Them Bleed.
+'Tis true, as Heav'ns Elected Flock, you may
+For his Conversion, and your Safety _pray_
+But Pray'rs are all. To Disinherit him,
+The very Thought, nay, Word it self's a Crime.
+For that's the MEANS of Safety: but forbear,
+For Means are Impious in the Sons of Pray'r.
+To Miracles alone your Safety owe;
+And _Abrahams_ Angel wait to stop the Blow.
+Yes, what if his polluted Throne be strowd
+With Sacriledge, Idolatry, and Blood;
+And 'tis you mount him there; you're innocent still:
+For he's a King, and Kings can do no ill.
+Oh Royal Birthright, 'tis a Sacred Name:
+Rowze then _Achitophel_, rowze up for shame:
+Let not this Lethargy thy Soul benum;
+But wake, and save the Godlike _Absolom_.
+And to reward thee for a Deed so great
+Glut thy Desires, thy full-crown'd wishes meet,
+Be with accumulated Honours blest,
+And grasp a STAR t'adorn thy shining Crest.
+
+  _Achitophel_ before his Eyes could ope,
+Dreamt of an Ephod, Mitre, and a Cope.
+Those visionary Robes t'his Eyes appear'd:
+For Priestly all was the great Sense he heard.
+But Priest or Prophet, Right Divine, or all
+Together; 'twas not at their feebler call,
+'Twas at the _Star_ he wak'd; the _Star_ but nam'd,
+Flasht in his Eyes, and his rowz'd Soul enflam'd.
+A _Star_, whose Influence had more powerful Light,
+Then that Miraculous Wanderer of the Night,
+Decreed to guide the Eastern Sages way:
+Their's to adore a God, his to betray.
+
+  Here the new Convert more than half inspir'd,
+Strait to his Closet and his Books retir'd.
+There for all needful Arts in this extreme,
+For knotty Sophistry t'a limber Theme,
+Long brooding ere the Mass to Shape was brought,
+And after many a tugging heaving Thought,
+Together a well-orderd Speech he draws,
+With ponderous Sounds for his much-labour'd Cause.
+Then the astonisht Sanedrim he storm'd,
+And with such doughty strength the Tug perform'd:
+Fate did the Work with so much Conquest bless,
+Wondrous the Champion, Glorious the Success.
+So powerful Eloquence, so strong was Wit;
+And with such Force the easie Wind-falls hit.
+
+  But the entirest Hearts his Cause could steal,
+Were the Levitick Chiefs of _Israel_.
+None with more Rage the Impious Thought run down
+Of barring _Absolon_, Pow'r, Wishes, Crown.
+With so much vehemence, such fiery Zeal!
+Oh, poor unhappy Church of _Israel!_
+Thou feelst the Fate of the Arch-angels Wars,
+The Dragons Tayl sweeps down thy Falling Stars.
+Nay, the black Vote 'gainst _Absolon_ appear'd
+So monstrous, that they damn'd it ere 'twas heard.
+For Prelates ne'r in Sanedrims debate,
+They argue in the Church, but not i'th' State;
+And when their Thoughts aslant towards Heav'n they turn,
+They weigh each Grain of Incense that they burn,
+But t'Heavens Vice-gerents, Soul, Sense, Reason, all,
+Or right or wrong, like Hecatombs must fall.
+And when State-business calls their Thoughts below,
+Then like their own Church-Organ-Pipes they go.
+Not _Davids_ Lyre could more his Touch obey:
+For as their Princes breathe and strike, they play.
+'Gainst Royal Will they never can dispute, }
+But by a strange _Tarantula_ strook mute,  }
+Dance to no other Tune but _Absolute_.     }
+All Acts of Supreme Power they still admire:
+'Tis Sacred, though to set the World on Fire,
+Though Church-Infallibility they explode,
+As making Humane knowledge equal God;
+Infallible in a new name goes down,
+Not in the Mitre lodged, but in the Crown.
+'Tis true, blest _Deborahs_ Laws they could forget:
+(But want of Memory commends their Wit.)
+Where 'twas enacted Treason, not to own
+Hers and her Sanedrins right to place the Crown.
+But her weak Heads oth' Church, mistaken fools,
+Wanted the Light of their sublimer Schools:
+For Divine Right could no such Forces bring. }
+But Wisdom now expands her wider Wing,       }
+And Streams are ever deeper than the Spring. }
+Besides, they've sense of Honour; and who knows
+How far the Gratitude of Priest-craft goes?
+And what if now like old _Elisha_ fed,
+To praise the Sooty Bird that brought 'em Bread,
+In pure acknowledgment, though in despight
+Of their own sense, they paint the Raven White.
+
+  _Achitophel_ charm'd with kind Fortunes Smiles,
+Flusht with Success, now glows for bolder Toyls.
+Great Wits perverted greatest Mischiefs hold,
+As poysonous Vapors spring from Mines of Gold.
+And proud to see himself with Triumph blest,
+Thus to great _Absolom_ himself addrest.
+
+  Illustrious Terrour of the World, all hayle:
+For ever like your Conquering Self prevaile.
+In spight of Malice in full Luster shine;
+Be your each Action, Word, and Look Divine,
+Nay, though our Altars you've so long forborne;
+To your derided Foes Defeat, and Scorne,
+For your Renown we have those Trumpets found,
+Shall ev'n this Deed your highest Glory sound.
+That spight of the ill-judging Worlds mistake,
+Your Soul still owns those Temples you forsake:
+Onely by all-commanding Honour driven,
+This self-denial you have made with Heav'n:
+Quitting our Altars, cause the Insolence
+Of prophane Sanedrims has driven you thence.
+A Prince his Faith to such low Slaves reveal!
+'Twas Treason though to God to bid You kneel.
+And what though senseless barking Murmurers scold, }
+And with a Rage too blasphemously bold,            }
+Say _Israels_ Crown's for _Esau_'s Pottage sold.   }
+Let 'em rayl on; and to strike Envy dumb;
+May the Slaves live till that great Day shall come,
+When their husht Rage shall your keen Vengeance fly,
+And silenc'd with your Royal Thunder dye.
+Nay, to outsoar your weak Fore-fathers Wings,
+And to be all that Nature first meant Kings;
+Damn'd be the Law that Majesty confines,
+But doubly damn'd accursed Sanedrins,
+Invented onely to eclipse a Crown.
+Oh throw that dull Mosaick Land-mark down.
+The making Sanedrims a part of Pow'r,
+Nurst but those Vipers which its Sire devour.
+Lodg'd in the Pallace tow'rds the Throne they press,
+For Pow'rs Enjoyment does its Lust increase.
+Allegiance onely is in Chains held fast;
+Make Men ne're thirst, is ne're to let 'em tast.
+Then, Royal Sir, be Sanedrims no more,
+Lop off that rank Luxurious Branch of pow'r:
+Those hungry _Scions_ from the _Cedar_ root,
+That its Imperial Head towards Heav'n may shoot.
+When Lordly Sanedrims with Kings give Law,
+And thus in yokes like Mules together draw;
+From _Judahs_ Arms the Royal Lyon raze,
+And _Issachars_ dull Ass supply the place.
+If Kings o're common Mankind have this odds,
+Are Gods Vicegerents; let 'em act like Gods.
+As Man is Heav'ns own clay, which it may mould
+For Honour or Dishonour, uncontrould,
+And Monarchy is mov'd by Heav'nly Springs;
+Why is not Humane Fate i'th' Breath of Kings?
+Then, Sir, from Heav'n your great Example take,
+And be th'unbounded Lord a King should make:
+Resume what bold Invading Slaves engrost,
+And onely Pow'rs Effeminacy lost.
+
+  To this kind _Absolom_ but little spoke;
+Onely return'd a Nod, and gracious Look.
+For though recorded Fame with pride has told,
+Of his great Actings, Wonders manifold;
+And his great Thinkings most Diviners guess;
+Yet his great Speakings no Records express.
+
+  All things thus safe; and now for one last blow,
+To give his Foes a total Overthrow;
+A Blow not in Hells Legends match'd before,
+The remov'd Plot's laid at the Enemies door.
+The old Plot forg'd against the Saints of _Baal_,
+Cheat, Perjury, and Subornation all,
+Whilst with a more damn'd Treason of their own,
+Like working Moles they're digging round the Throne;
+_Baal_, _Baal_, the cry, and _Absolom_ the Name,
+But _Davids_ glory, Life and Crown the Aim.
+Nay, if but a Petition peep abroad,
+Though for the Glory both of Church and God,
+And to preserve even their yet unborn Heirs;
+There's Blood and Treason in their very Prayers.
+This unexampled Impudence upheld;
+The Governments best Friends, the Crowns best Sheild,
+The Great and Brave with equal Treason brands.
+Faith, Honour, and Allegiance strongest Bands
+All broken like the Cords of _Sampson_ fall,
+Whilst th'universal Leprosie taints all.
+These poysonous shafts with greater spleen they draw,
+Than the Outragious Wife of _Potypha_.
+So the chast _Joseph_ unseduc'd to her
+Adult'ries, was pronounc'd a Ravisher.
+
+  This hellish Ethnick Plot the Court alarms;
+The Traytors seventy thousand strong in Arms,
+Near _Endor_ Town lay ready at a Call,
+And garrison'd in Airy Castles all.
+These Warriours on a sort of Coursers rid,
+Ne'r log'd in Stables, or by Man bestrid.
+What though the steele with which the Rebels fought,
+No Forge e're felt, or Anvile ever wrought?
+Yet this Magnetick Plot, for black Designs,
+Can raise cold Iron from the very Mines.
+To this were twenty Under-plots, contriv'd
+By Malice, and by Ignorance believ'd,
+Till Shamms met Shamms, and Plots with Plots so crost,
+That the True Plot amongst the False was lost.
+
+  Of all the much-wrong'd Worthies of the Land
+Whom this Contagious Infamy profan'd,
+In the first Rank the youthful _Ithream_ stood,
+His Princely Veins fill'd with great _Davids_ Blood.
+With so much Manly Beauty in his Face,
+Scarce his High Birth could lend a Nobler Grace.
+And for a Mind fit for this shrine of Gold
+Heaven cast his Soul in the same Beauteous Mould;
+With all the sweets of Prideless Greatness blest,
+As Affable as _Abrahams_ Angel-Guest.
+But when in Wars his glittering Steel he drew,
+No Chief more Bold with fiercer Lightning flew:
+Witness his tryal of an Arm Divine,
+Passing the Ordeal of a _Burning Mine_:
+Such forward Courage did his Bosome fill,
+Starting from nothing, but from doing ill.
+Still with such Heat in Honours Race he run, }
+Such Wonders by his early Valour done,       }
+Enough to charm a second _Joshua's_ Sun.     }
+But he has Foes; his fatal Enemies            }
+To a strange Monster his Fair Truth disguise; }
+And shew the Gorgon even to Royal Eyes.       }
+To their false perspectives his Fate he owes,
+The spots i'th' Glass, not in the Star it shows.
+Yet when by the Imperial Sentence doom'd,
+The Royal Hand the Princely Youth unplum'd,
+He his hard Fate without a Murmur took,
+And stood with that Calm, Duteous, Humble look.
+Of all his shining Honours unarray'd,
+Like _Isaac's_ Head on _Abrahams_ Altar lay'd.
+Yes, _Absolom_, thou hast him in the Toyl,
+Rifled, and lost; now Triumph in the Spoyl.
+His Zeal too high for _Israels_ Temples soar'd,
+His God-like Youth by prostrate Hearts ador'd,
+Till thy Revenge from Spight and Fear began,
+And too near Heaven took Care to make him Man.
+Though _Israels_ King, God, Laws, share all his Soul,
+Adorn'd with all that Heroes can enrol,
+Yet Vow'd Successions cruel Sacrifice,
+Great _Judah_'s Son like _Jeptha_'s Daughter dies.
+Yes, like a Monument of Wrath he stands;
+Such Ruine _Absolons_ Revenge demands;
+His Curiosity his Doom assign'd:
+For 'twas a Crime of as destructive Kind,
+To pry how _Babylons_ Burning Zeal aspires,
+As to look back on Sodoms blazing Fires.
+But spoyl'd, and rob'd, his drossier Glories gone,
+His Virtue and his Truth are still his own.
+No rifling Hands can that bright Treasure take,
+Nor all his Foes that Royal Charter shake.
+
+  The dreadful'st Foe their Engines must subdue,
+The strongest Rock through which their Arts must hew,
+Was great _Barzillai_: could they reach his Head,
+Their Fears all husht, they had strook Danger dead.
+That second _Moses_-Guide resolv'd to free
+Our _Israel_ from her threatning Slavery,
+Idolatry and Chains; both from the Rods
+Of _Pharoh_-Masters, and _Egyptian_ Gods:
+And from that Wilderness of Errour freed,
+Where Dogstars scorch, and killing Serpents breed:
+That _Israels_ Liberty and Truth may grow,
+The _Canaan_ whence our Milk and Honey flow.
+Such our _Barzillai_; but _Barzillai_ too,
+With _Moses_ Fate does _Moses_ Zeal pursue:
+Leads to that Bliss which his own Silver Hairs
+Shall never reach, Rich onely to his Heirs.
+Kind Patriot, who to plant us Banks of Flow'rs,
+With purling Streams, cool Shades, and Summer Bow'rs,
+His Ages needful Rest away does fling,
+Exhausts his Autumn to adorn our Spring:
+Whilst his last hours in Toyls and Storms are hurl'd,
+And onely to enrich th'inheriting World.
+Thus prodigally throws his Lifes short span,
+To play his Countries generous Pelican.
+But oh, that all-be-devill'd Paper, fram'd
+No doubt, in Hell; that Mass of Treason damn'd;
+By _Esau_'s Hands, and _Jacobs_ Voice disclos'd;
+And timely to th' Abhorring World expos'd.
+Nay, what's more wondrous, this wast-paper Tool,
+A nameless, unsubscrib'd, and useless scrowl,
+Was, by a Politician great in Fame,
+(His Chains foreseen a Month before they came)
+Preserv'd on purpose, by his prudent care,
+To brand his Soul, and ev'n his Life ensnare.
+But then the Geshuritish Troop, well-Oath'd,
+And for the sprucer Face, well-fed, and Cloath'd.
+These to the Bar Obedient Swearers go,
+With all the Wind their manag'd Lungs can blow.
+So have I seen from Bellows brazen Snout,
+The Breath drawn in, and by th'same Hand squeez'd out.
+But helping Oaths may innocently fly,
+When in a Faith where dying Vows can lye.
+Were Treason and Democracie his Ends,
+Why was't not prov'd by his Revolting Friends?
+Why did not th'Oaths of his once-great Colleagues,
+_Achitophel_ and the rest prove his Intreagues?
+Why at the Bar appear'd such sordid scum,
+And all those Nobler Tongues of Honour dumb?
+Could he his Plots t'his great Allies conceal,
+He durst to leaky Starving Wretches tell;
+Such Ignorant Princes, and such knowing Slaves;
+His _Babel_ building Tools from such poor Knaves.
+Were he that Monster his new Foes would make
+Th'unreasoning World beleive, his Soul so black,
+That they in Conscience did his Side forego,
+Knowing him guilty they could prove him so.
+Then 'twas not Conscience made 'em change their side.
+Or if they knew, yet did his Treasons hide;
+In not exposing his detested Crime,
+They're greater Monsters than they dare think Him.
+Are these the Proselites renown'd so high,
+Converts to Duty, Honour, Loyalty?
+Poorly they change, who in their change stand mute:
+Converts to Truth ought Falsehood to confute.
+To conquering Truth, they but small glory give,
+Who turn to God, yet let the Dagon live.
+
+  But who can _Amiels_ charming Wit withstand,
+The great State-pillar of the Muses Land.
+For lawless and ungovern'd, had the Age
+The Nine wild Sisters seen run mad with Rage,
+Debaucht to Savages, till his keen Pen
+Brought their long banisht Reason back again,
+Driven by his Satyres into Natures Fence,
+And lasht the idle Rovers into Sense.
+Nay, his sly Muse, in Style Prophetick, wrot
+The whole Intrigue of _Israels_ Ethnick Plot;
+Form'd strange Battalions, in stupendious-wise,
+Whole Camps in Masquerade, and Armies in disguise.
+_Amiel_, whose generous Gallantry, whilst Fame
+Shall have a Tongue, shall never want a Name.
+Who, whilst his Pomp his lavish Gold consumes,
+Moulted his Wings to lend a Throne his Plumes,
+Whilst an Ungrateful Court he did attend,
+Too poor to pay, what it had pride to spend.
+
+  But, _Amiel_ has, alas, the fate to hear,
+An angry Poet play his Chronicler;
+A Poet rais'd above Oblivions Shade,
+By his Recorded Verse Immortal made.
+But, Sir, his livelier Figure to engrave,
+With Branches added to the _Bays_ you gave:
+No Muse could more Heroick Feats rehearse,
+Had with an equal all-applauding Verse,
+Great _Davids_ Scepter, and _Sauls_ Javelin prais'd:
+A Pyramide to his Saint, _Interest_, rais'd.
+For which Religiously no Change he mist,                    }
+From Common-wealths-man up to Royalist:                     }
+Nay, would have been his own loath'd thing call'd _Priest_. }
+Priest, whom with so much Gall he does describe,
+'Cause once unworthy thought of _Levies_ Tribe.
+Near those bright Tow'rs where Art has Wonders done, }
+Where _Davids_ sight glads the blest Summers Sun;    }
+And at his feet proud _Jordans_ Waters run;          }
+A Cell there stands by Pious Founders rais'd,
+Both for its Wealth and Learned _Rabbins_ prais'd:
+To this did an Ambitious Bard aspire,
+To be no less than Lord of that blest Quire:
+Till Wisdom deem'd so Sacred a Command,
+A Prize too great for his unhallow'd Hand.
+Besides, lewd Fame had told his plighted Vow,
+To _Laura's_ cooing Love percht on a dropping Bough
+_Laura_ in faithful Constancy confin'd
+To _Ethiops_ Envoy, and to all Mankind.
+_Laura_ though Rotten, yet of Mold Divine;
+He had all her Cl--ps, and She had all his Coine.
+Her Wit so far his Purse and Sense could drain,
+Till every P--x was sweetn'd to a Strain.
+And if at last his Nature can reform,
+A weary grown of Loves tumultuous storm,
+'Tis Ages Fault, not His; of pow'r bereft,
+He left not Whoring, but of that was left.
+
+  But wandring Muse bear up thy flagging Wing:
+To thy more glorious Theme return, and sing
+Brave _Jothams_ Worth, Impartial, Great, and Just,
+Of unbrib'd Faith, and of unshaken Trust:
+Once _Geshurs_ Lord, their Throne so nobly fill'd,
+As if to th'borrow'd Scepter that he held,
+Th'inspiring _David_ yet more generous grew,
+And lent him his Imperial _Genius_ too.
+Nor has he worn the Royal Image more
+In _Israels_ Viceroy, than Embassador:
+Witness his Gallantry that resolute hour,
+When to uphold the Sacred Pride of Pow'r,
+His stubborn Flags from the _Sydonian_ shore,
+The angry storms of Thundring Castles bore.
+But these are Virtues Fame must less admire,
+Because deriv'd from that Heroick Sire,
+Who on a Block a dauntless Martyr dy'd,
+With all the Sweetness of a Smiling Bride;
+Charm'd with the Thought of Honours Starry Pole,
+With Joy laid down a Head to mount a Soul.
+
+  Of all the Champions rich in Honours Scarrs,
+Whose Loyalty through _Davids_ ancient Wars,
+(In spight of the triumphant Tyrants pride,)
+Was to his lowest Ebb of Fortune ty'd;
+No Link more strong in all that Chain of Gold,
+Then _Amasai_, the Constant, and the Bold.
+That Warlike General whose avenging Sword,
+Through all the Battles of his Royal Lord,
+Pour'd all the Fires that Loyal Zeal could light,
+No brighter Star in the lost _Davids_ night.
+
+  No less with Laurels _Ashurs_ Brows adorn,
+That mangled Brave who with _Tyres_ Thunder torn,
+Brought a dismember'd Load of Honour home,
+And lives to make both th'Earth and Seas his Tomb.
+
+  With Reverence the Religious _Helon_ treat,
+Refin'd from all the looseness of the Great.
+_Helon_ who sees his Line of Virtues run }
+Beyond the Center of his Grave, his own  }
+Unfinisht Luster sparkling in his Son.   }
+A Son so high in Sanedrims renown'd,
+In _Israels_ Intrest strong, in Sense profound.
+Under one Roof here Truth a Goddess dwells,    }
+The Pious Father builds her Shrines and Cells, }
+And in the Son she speaks her Oracles.         }
+
+  In the same list young _Adriels_ praise record,
+_Adriel_ the Academick Neighbour Lord;
+_Adriel_ ennobled by a Grandfather,
+And Unkle, both those Glorious Sons of War:
+Both Generals, and both Exiles with their Lord;
+Till with the Royal Wanderer restored,
+They lived to see his Coronation Pride;
+Then surfeiting on too much Transport dy'd.
+O're _Adriels_ Head these Heroes Spirits shine,
+His Soul with so much Loyal Blood fenc'd in;
+Such Native Virtues his great Mind adorn,
+Whilst under their congenial Influence born.
+
+  In this Record let _Camries_ Name appear,
+The Great _Barzillai_'s Fellow Sufferer;
+From unknown Hands, of unknown Crimes accus'd,
+Till th'hunted Shadow lost, his Chains unloos'd.
+
+  Now to the Sweet-tongu'd _Amrams_ praise be just,
+Once the _State-Advocate_, that Wealthy Trust,
+Till Flattery the price of dear-bought Gold,
+His Innocence for Pallaces unfold,
+To Naked Truths more shining Beauties true,
+Th'Embroiderd Mantle from his Neck he threw.
+
+  Next _Hothriel_ write, _Baals_ watchful Foe, and late
+_Jerusalems_ protecting Magistrate;
+Who, when false Jurors were to Frenzy Charm'd,
+And against Innocence even Tribunals arm'd,
+Saw deprav'd Justice ope her Ravenous Jaw,
+And timely broke her Canine Teeth of Law.
+
+  Amongst th'Asserters of his Countries Cause,
+Give the bold _Micah_ his deserv'd Applause,
+The Grateful Sanedrims repeated Choice,
+Of Two Great Councels the Successive Voice.
+Of that old hardy Tribe of _Israel_ borne,
+Fear their Disdain, and Flattery their Scorne,
+Too proud to truckle, and too Tough to bend.
+
+  Of the same Tribe was _Hanan, Ithreams_ Friend,
+From that fam'd Sire, the Long Robes Glory, sprung,
+In Sanedrims his Countries Pillar long;
+Long had he fadom'd all the Depths of State;           }
+Could with that strength, that ponderous Sense debate, }
+As turn'd the Scale of Nations with the weight:        }
+Till subtley made by Spightful Honour Great,
+Prefer'd to _Israels_ Chief Tribunal Seat,
+Made in a higher Orb his Beams dispense,
+To hush his Formidable Eloquence.
+
+  But _Israels_ numerous Worthies are too long
+And Great a Theam for one continued Song.
+Yet These by bold flagitious Tongues run down,
+Made all Conspirers against _Davids_ Crown.
+
+  Nay, and there was a Time, had Hell prevail'd,
+Nor Perjury and Subornation fail'd,
+When a long List of Names, for Treason doom'd,
+Had _Israels_ Patriots in one Grave entomb'd:
+A List, with such fair Loyal Colours laid,
+Even to no less than Royal Hands convey'd.
+And the great Mover in this pious Fraud,
+A Dungeon Slave redeem'd by'a Midnight Bawd:
+Then made by Art a Swearer of Renown,
+Nurst and embrac'd by th'Heir of _Judahs_ Crown:
+Encourag'd too by Pension for Reward,
+With his forg'd Scrowls for Guiltless Blood prepared.
+Poor Engine for a greatness so sublime:           }
+But oh, a Cause by which their _Baal_ must climb, }
+Ennobles both the Actor and the Crime.            }
+
+  Yet This, and all Things else now quite blown o're,
+And _Absolom_, his _Israels_ Fear no more:
+Luster and Pride shall hem his radiant Brow;
+All Knees shall fall, and prostrate Nations bow.
+By Heav'ns, he is, he will, he must, he shall
+Be _Israels_ Heroe, Friend, Saint, Idol, all.
+What though provok'd with all the crying sins
+Of Murmuring Slaves, excluding Sanedrins:
+By profane Crowds in dirt his Prophets spurn'd,
+And ev'n his Gods in mock Processions burn'd:
+Himself from _Israel_ into _Hebron_ sent,
+And doom'd to little less than Banishment.
+In spight of all his Scrowls to _Babylon_;           }
+And all the promis'd Wonders to be done,             }
+When _Egypts_ Frogs should croak on _Judahs_ Throne. }
+Though of a Faith that propagates in Blood;
+Of Passions unforgiving, less withstood
+Then Seas and Tempests, and as Deaf as they.   }
+Yet all Divine shall be his Godlike Sway,      }
+And his calm Reign but one long _Halcyon_ Day. }
+And this Great Truth he's damn'd that dares deny; }
+'Gainst _Absolom_ even Oracles would lye,         }
+Though Sense and Reason Preach 'tis Blasphemy.    }
+Then let out dull Mistaken Terrour cease,
+When even our Comets speak all Health and Peace.
+
+_FINIS._
+
+
+ERRATA.
+
+  [Transcriber's Note:
+
+  The author's Errata list was printed at the bottom of the page in a
+  single block of small type, heavily smudged and not always legible.
+  In at least one case, the requested change appears to be what the text
+  already says. For these reasons, changes listed have _not_ been made.
+  The text of each complete line is given in brackets.]
+
+  The Reader is desired to Correct these following Mistakes.
+
+  Page 1. line 12. for _Hold_, read _Held_.
+      [Hold but their Crowns at his Almighty Will.]
+  p. 4. l. 22. r. _Ships_;
+      [_Dan_ from her Ship, and _Asher_ on the Shore.]
+    ibid. l. 26. for _Kindl'd_ r. _Bank'd_;
+      [Kindl'd their embattel'd Fires for _Deborah's_ Wars,]
+    ibid. l. 32. r. _the Mighty_;
+      [The Mighty _Deborah's_, God's, and _Israel's_ Foes.]
+    ibid. l. 37 for _they_ r. _thus_;
+      [Thus sung, they conquer'd _Deborah_; thus fell]
+  p. 7. l. 18. for _poor_, r. _weak_;
+      [Preach to poor Female half-Soul'd Proselytes.]
+  p. 9. l. 3. & 4. for _his_ r. _a_;
+      [What Knees, what Necks to mount him to his Throne;
+       What Gems, what Stars to sparkle in his Crown?]
+    l. 6. for _the_, r. _ye_;
+      [But oh the Pow'rs, by treacherous snakes beguil'd,]
+    ibid. l. 20. r. _Walls; the Billows pour_;
+      [Down crack the Chrystal Walls the Billows pow'r,]
+  p. 12. l. 11. r. _lov'd Israel_;
+      [That still in its Lord _Israel_ takes delight,]
+  p. 19. l. 27. for _loo_ r. _race_ [illegible, possibly "rate"]
+      [To loo the Bloodhounds off to save the Plot.]
+  p. 22. l. 10. r. _Excluding_.
+      [Th'encluding Sanedrims Resolves once shake;]
+
+  [Additional errors and anomalies noted by transcriber:
+
+  (Title, after dedication)
+  Absalom Senior
+    _catchword on previous page has "Abso-"_
+  Whilst th'universal Drones buz to his Hives.
+    _apostrophe missing_
+  If this last Masterpiece requires a Soul.
+    _"f" ("If") invisible_
+  The Uppermost, indisputably Best.
+    _text reads "indsputably"_
+  This final Resolution made, at last
+    _line printed after break, but not indented_
+  But t'Heavens Vice-gerents, Soul, Sense, Reason, all,
+    _the word "vice-gerent" occurs twice_
+  Why did not th'Oaths of his once-great Colleagues,
+    _apostrophe missing_
+  Th'Embroiderd Mantle from his Neck he threw.
+    _apostrophe missing_
+  By profane Crowds in dirt his Prophets spurn'd,
+    _apostrophe invisible_ ]
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+              Poetical Reflections
+                   on a Late
+
+                      POEM
+
+                   Entituled,
+            Absalom and Achitophel.
+
+           _By a Person of Honour._
+
+
+                  [Decoration]
+
+                   _LONDON:_
+      Printed for _Richard Janeway_. 1681.
+
+
+
+
+TO THE READER.
+
+If ever anything, call'd a _Poem_, deserv'd a severe Reflection, that
+of _Absalom_ and _Achitophel_ may justly contract it. For tho' Lines
+can never be purg'd from the dross and filth they would throw on others
+(there being no retraction that can expiate the conveying of persons to
+an unjust and publick reproach); yet the cleansing of their fames from a
+design'd pollution, may well become a more ingenious Pen than the Author
+of these few reflections will presume to challenge.
+
+To epitomize which scandalous Phamphlet (unworthy the denomination of
+_Poesy_) no eye can inspect it without a prodigious amazement; the
+abuses being so gross and deliberate, that it seems rather a Capital
+or National Libel, than personal exposures, in order to an infamous
+detraction. For how does he character the King, but as a broad figure
+of scandalous inclinations, or contriv'd unto such irregularities,
+as renders him rather the property of Parasites and Vice, than suitable
+to the accomplishment of so excellent a Prince? Nay, he forces on King
+_David_ such a Royal resemblance, that he darkens his sanctity in spite
+of illuminations from Holy Writ.
+
+Next (to take as near our King as he could) he calumniates the Duke
+of _Monmouth_ with that height of impudence, that his Sense is far
+blacker than his Ink, exposing him to all the censures that a Murderer,
+a Traytor, or what a Subject of most ambitious evil can possibly
+comprehend: and it is some wonder, that his Lines also had not hang'd
+him on a Tree, to make the intended _Absalom_ more compleat.
+
+As to my Lord _Shaftsbury_ (in his collusive _Achitophel_), what does he
+other than exceed Malice it self? or that the more prudent deserts of
+that Peer were to be so impeach'd before hand by his impious Poem, as
+that he might be granted more emphatically condign of the Hangman's Ax;
+And which his Muse does in effect take upon her to hasten.
+
+And if the season be well observ'd, when this Adulterate Poem was
+spread, it will be found purposely divulg'd near the time when this
+Lord, with his other Noble Partner, were to be brought to their Tryals.
+And I suppose this Poet thought himself enough assur'd of their
+condemnation; at least, that his _Genius_ had not otherwise ventur'd
+to have trampled on persons of such eminent Abilities, and Interest in
+the Nation. A consideration, I confess, incited my Pen (its preceding
+respect being paid to the Duke of _Monmouth_) to vindicate their
+Reputations where I thought it due.
+
+And some are not a little mistaken in their judgments of persons, if any
+Kingdom has at this time Two men of their Dignity, of more extraordinary
+Understandings: Which may (if well consider'd) be some inducement to
+their future preservation and esteem. As I have endeavour'd chiefly to
+clear their abuse, so I have pass'd divers considerable persons, under
+as malign inclinations of this Author's; conceiving, that what I have
+said for the Principals, may remove such smaller prejudices as are on
+the value of others on the same concern.
+
+His most select and pecuniary Favourites, I have but barely touch'd,
+in respect his praise includes a concomitant reprehension, if well
+apprehended. Besides, I was unwilling to discourage any, that for the
+future may desire to be admir'd by him according to their liberality.
+A method, that perhaps may in time set up some Merchants of _Parnassus_,
+where the _Indies_ of Fame seem lately discover'd, and may be purchas'd
+_per Centum_, according to modern example.
+
+As to the Character of _Amiel_, I confess my Lines are something
+pointed, the one reason being, that it alludes much to a manner of
+expression of this Writer's, as may be seen by the marginal Notes; and a
+second will be soon allowed. The figure of _Amiel_ has been so squeez'd
+into Paint, that his soul is seen in spite of the Varnish.
+
+And none will deny, but it is as easie to send Truth backward, as it is
+to spur Falsities egregiously forward, and might have caus'd any Asse,
+as knowing as _Balaam_'s, to have rebuk'd such a Poet as will needs
+prophecy against the sense of Heaven and Men. But I have enough of this
+_Amiell_, as well as of his Muse, unless that by his means it occasions
+a further account. And for what is mine here, It will at worst contract
+censure, in respect it is a brief reflection on a very large Libel. And
+tho' I believe it did not cost (tho' that be not offer'd for an excuse)
+the tenth part of the time of the other. As to my Preface, I was willing
+that he should find, that this smaller work has some Nose.--Tho' I am no
+more bound to have my Face known by it, than he is willing to obscure
+his by a Nameless Preamble.
+
+
+
+
+  [Asterisks used as side/footnote references are from the original
+  text.]
+
+              Poetical Reflections
+                   ON A POEM,
+
+                     CALLED
+             Absolon and Achitophel.
+
+
+When late Protectorship was Canon-Proof,
+And _Cap-a-pe_ had seiz'd on _Whitehall_-Roof,
+And next, on _Israelites_ durst look so big,
+That _Tory-like_, it lov'd not much the _Whigg_:
+A Poet there starts up, of wondrous Fame;
+Whether _Scribe_ or _Pharisee_, his Race doth name,
+Or more t'intrigue the Metaphor of Man,
+Got on a Muse by _Father-Publican_:
+    [Sidenote: A Committee-Man.]
+For 'tis not harder much, if we tax Nature,
+That Lines should give a Poet such a Feature;
+Than that his Verse a _Hero_ should us show,
+    [Sidenote: _Sir Denzill Hollis_ seeks _annum mirabilis_.]
+Produc'd by such a Feat, as famous too.
+His Mingle such, what Man presumes to think,
+But he can Figures daub with Pen and Ink.
+A Grace our mighty _Nimrod_ late beheld,
+When he within the Royal Palace dwell'd,
+And saw 'twas of import if Lines could bring
+His Greatness from _Usurper_, to be King:
+    [Sidenote: See his Poem on _Cromwel_.]
+Or varnish so his Praise, that little odds
+Should seem 'twixt him, and such called Earthly Gods.
+And tho no Wit can Royal Blood infuse,
+No more than melt a Mother to a Muse:
+Yet much a certain Poet undertook,
+That Men and Manners deals in without-Book.
+And might not more to Gospel-Truth belong,
+Than he (if Christened) does by name of _John._
+This Poet, who that time much squanderd thought,
+Of which some might bring Coyn, whilst some none brought,
+As Men that hold their Brains of powerful sense,
+Will least on Poet's Tales bestow their pence,
+Tho he such Dispensations to endear,
+Had notch'd his Sconce just level with his Ear.
+An Emblem in these days of much import,
+When Crop-ear'd Wits had such a Modish Court.
+Tho some from after-deeds much fear the Fate,
+That such a Muse may for its Lugs create.
+As Stars may without Pillories dispence,
+To slit some Ears for Forgeries of sense,
+Which Princes, Nobles, and the Fame of Men,
+Sought to bespatter by a worthless Pen.
+But leaving this to Circumstances fit,
+With what thence spreads this Renegado-wit.
+We'll tell you how his Court he now doth make,     }
+And what choice Things and Persons he doth take,   }
+That Lines for Guinnys might more liquorish speak. }
+To heigten which we'll to his Muse advance,
+Which late discover'd its _Judaick_ Trance:
+Where _Absalon_'s in _English_ Colours di'd,
+That in a Duke, a Traitor might be spi'd.
+Or Heaven on him did Graces so bestow,
+As only could confer their Pageant Show;
+Giving his Glories no more fast Renown,
+Than with more Honour to be taken down:
+Like Victimes by some Sacrificers drest,
+Must fall adorn'd, which then they pity least.
+But fear not _Monmouth_, if a Libel's quill,
+Would dregs of Venom on thy Vertue spill;
+Since no desert so smoothly is convey'd,
+As next it's Fame, no canker'd Patch is laid;
+Thou didst no Honour seek, but what's thy due,
+And such Heaven bids thee not relinquish too.
+Whilst it's Impressions so oblig'd thy Task,
+As leave from Earth thy Soul declin'd to ask.
+If this thy Error were, what Influ'nce can
+Excuse the Duty of more wilfull Man;
+With such whose Figures shew that squinting Paint,
+Whence peeps a Mungril _Babylonish Saint_.
+Thy Soul's Religion's Prop, and Native Grace,
+_Rome_, (fears its onsets) looking on the place;
+What Altitude can more exalt thy Praise,
+Tho best Devotion should thy Trophies raise,
+And 'tis perhaps from thy Diviner Bliss,
+That some may fear their Souls are seen amiss.
+As what so high does Emulation mount,
+As Greatness when surpass'd on Heaven's Account;
+And if th' Ambition would in this excel,
+'Twas but to be more great in doing well;
+And must rebate the worst that Fates intend,
+Whilst Heaven and _England_ is at once thy Friend.
+This just _Encomium_, tho too brief it be
+To represent thy least Epitome;
+And but unto thy larger Figure joyn'd,
+As small proportions are from great design'd;
+Tho where a line one worth of thine can speak,
+It does alone, a Poem's Greatness make;
+Leaving this _Hero_ to his spotless Fame,
+(As who besides this Wretch will it blaspheme)
+Or in a Libels Allegorick Way,
+Men falsely figur'd, to the world convey,
+Libels the enormous Forgery of sense,
+Stamp'd on the brow of human Impudence;
+The blackest wound of Merit, and the Dart,
+That secret Envy points against Desert.
+The lust of Hatred pander'd to the Eye
+T'allure the World's debauching by a Lie.
+Th'rancrous Favourite's masquerading Guilt,
+Imbitt'ring venom where he'd have it spilt.
+The Courts depression in a fulsom Praise;
+A Test it's _Ignoramus_ worst conveys,
+A lump of Falshood's Malice does disperse,
+Or Toad when crawling on the Feet of Verse.
+Fame's impious Hireling and mean Reward,
+The Knave that in his Lines turns up his Card,
+Who, tho no Rabby, thought in Hebrew wit,
+He forc'd Allusions can closly fit.
+To _Jews_ or _English_, much unknown before,
+He made a _Talmud_ on his Muses score;
+Though hop'd few Criticks will its _Genius_ carp,
+So purely Metaphors King _David_'s Harp,
+And by a soft Encomium, near at hand,
+Shews _Bathsheba_ Embrac'd throughout the Land.
+But this Judaick Paraphrastick Sport
+We'll leave unto the ridling Smile of Court.
+Good Heav'n! What timeful Pains can Rhymers take,
+When they'd for Crowds of Men much Pen-plot make?
+Which long-Beak'd Tales and filch'd Allusions brings,
+As much like Truth, as 'tis the Woodcock sings.
+What else could move this Poet to purloin
+So many _Jews_, to please the _English_ Swine?
+Or was it that his Brains might next dispense
+To adapt himself a Royal Evidence?
+Or that he'd find for _Dugdale_'s Wash some Spell,
+In stead of once more dipp'd in _Winifred_'s Well;
+And ope his Budget, like _Pandora_'s Box,
+Whence Overt-acts more _Protestants_ should Pox,
+Which might the Joyner's Ghost provoke to rise,
+And fright such Tales with other _Popish_ Lies?
+But _Starr's_ or _Ignoramus_'s may not give
+Those Swearers longer swinge by Oaths to live.
+A Providence much _English_ Good protects,
+And sends Testees to Trade for new Effects;
+Which none of the Long-Robe, 'tis hop'd, can aid,
+So well by Oaths the Devil's already paid;
+And most suppose, if e're both Plots can die,
+Or eat up one anothers Perjury,
+'Twou'd _Pluto_ strangely pose to find a Third,
+Sould he in his a _Popish_ Legion Lard.
+A Policy some Poems much embrace,
+As is discern'd in _Shaftsbury_'s Great Case;
+Where Verse so vile an Obloquy betray,
+As for a Statist-_Jew_ they'd him convey.
+Tho hard it is to understand what Spell
+Can conjure up in him _Achitophel_,
+Or tax this Peer with an Abused Sense
+Of his so deep and apt Intelligence:
+A Promptitude by which the Nation's shown
+To be in Thought concurrent with his own.
+_Shaftsbury_! A Soul that Nature did impart
+To raise her Wonder in a Brain and Heart;
+Or that in him produc'd, the World might know,
+She others did with drooping Thought bestow.
+As in Mans most perspicuous Soul, we find
+The nearest Draught of her Internal Mind,
+Tho it appears her highest Act of State,
+When Human Conducts she does most compleat,
+And place them so, for Mankinds good, that they
+Are fit to Guide, where others miss their Way;
+It being in Worldly Politiques less Great
+To be a Law-maker, than Preserve a State.
+In Publick Dangers Laws are unsecure,
+As strongest Anchors can't all Winds endure;
+Though 'tis in Exigents the wisest Ease
+To know who best can ply when Storms encrease;
+Whilst other Prospects, by mistaking Fate,
+Through wrong Preventions, more its Bad dilate.
+Whence some their Counter-Politicks extend,
+To ruine such can Evils best amend.
+A Thwarting _Genius_, which our Nation more
+Than all its head-strong Evils does deplore;
+And shews what violent Movements such inform,
+That where a Calm should be, they force a Storm;
+As if their Safety chiefly they must prize
+In being rid of Men esteem'd more Wise.
+To this Great, Little Man, we'll T'other joyn,
+Held Sufferers by one Tripartite Design.
+As from a Cubick Power, or Three-fold Might,
+Roots much expand, as Authors prove aright;
+But of such Managements we'll little say,
+Or shamm'd Intrigues, for Fame left to convey;
+Which may by peeping through a Gown-mans Sleeve,
+Tell such grave Tales, Men cannot well believe:
+With what for Plots and Trials has been done,
+As Whores depos'd, before away they run;
+All which was well discern'd by numerous Sense,
+Before the Doctors py'd Intelligence,
+Who, with some Motley Lawyers, took much care
+To gain the _Caput_ of this Knowing Peer;
+When after so much Noise, and nothing prov'd,
+Heaven thank'd, to Freedom he's at last remov'd,
+Leaving a Low-Bridge _Cerberus_ to try
+In what Clerks Pate his monstrous Fee does lie;
+Or by the help of _Tory-Roger_ tell
+How Sacred Gain-Prerogativ'd should spell.
+But these are Thoughts may fit some Pensive Skulls,
+Or Men concern'd to bait their several Bulls;
+Whilst on this Peer we must some Lines bestow,
+Tho more he merits than best Verse can show:
+Great in his Name, but greater in his Parts,
+Judgment sublim'd, with all its strong Deserts;
+A Sense above Occasions quick surprize,
+That he no Study needs to make him Wise,
+Or labour'd Thoughts, that trains of Sinews knit,
+His Judgment always twin'd unto his Wit;
+That from his clear Discussions Men may know
+He does to wonder other Brains out-do.
+Whilst they for Notions search they can't compact,
+His _Genius_ fitly stands prepar'd to act.
+Admir'd of Man, that in thy Sense alone
+So ready dost exalt high Reason's Throne;
+That Men abate Resentments to expect
+Thou mayst rise Greater, having past Neglect.
+A Sacred Method Kings receive from Heaven,
+That still does Cherish, when it has Forgiven;
+Which from our Princes Soul so largely flows,
+That Mercy's Channel with his Greatness goes.
+No Arbitrary Whispers him can guide
+To swell his Rule beyond its genuine Tide:
+Whilst other Kings their rugged Scepters see
+Eclips'd in his more soft Felicity;
+Whose Goodness can all Stress of State remove,
+So fitly own'd the Subjects Fear and Love.
+My Verse might here discharge its hasty Flight, }
+As Pencils that attempt Immortal Heighth        }
+Droop in the Colours should convey its Light,   }
+Did not this Poet's Lines upon me call
+For some Reflexions on a Lower Fall;
+Where he by Rhyming, a _Judaick_ Sham,
+Obtrudes for _Israelites_ some Seeds of _Cham_.
+And this Inspexion needs no further go
+Than where his Pen does most Indulgent show:
+And 'tis no wonder if his _Types_ of Sense
+Should stroke such _Figures_ as give down their Pence;
+A Crime for which some Poets Lines so stretch,
+As on themselves they Metaphor _Jack Ketch_.
+Tho small the Varnish is to Humane Name,
+Where Cogging Measures rob the truth of Fame.
+And more to do his skew'd _Encomiums_ right,
+Some Persons speak by him their motly Sight:
+Or much like _Hudibras_, on Wits pretence,
+Some Lines for Rhyme, and some to gingle Sense.
+Who else would _Adriel_, _Jotham_, _Hushai_, fit,
+With loathed _Amiell_, for a Court of Wit?
+For, as Men Squares of Circles hardly find,
+Some think these Measures are as odly joyn'd.
+What else could _Adriell_'s sharpness more abuse,
+Than headlong dubb'd, to own himself a Muse,
+Unless to spread Poetick Honours so
+As should a Muse give each St. _George_'s Show?
+A Mode of Glory might _Parnassus_ fit,
+Tho our Sage Prince knows few he'd Knight for Wit.
+And thus this Freak is left upon the File,
+Or as 'tis written in this Poet's Stile.
+Next, as in Course, to _Jotham_ we'll descend,
+Thoughtful it seems which Side he'll next befriend,
+As thinking Brains can caper to and fro,
+Before they jump into the Box they'd go.
+And 'tis a moody Age, as many guess,
+When some with busie Fears still forward press;
+As 'tis Ambitions oft-deluding Cheat
+To tempt Mens aims, secureless of defeat.
+_Hushai_ the Compass of th'_Exchequer_ guides,
+Propense enough unto the North besides:
+As what can steady Stations more allure,
+Than such, a Princely Bed does first secure?
+Whose Part none are so ignorant to ask,
+And does no less employ his Ends and Task.
+But quitting these, we must for Prospect pass
+To gaping _Amiell_, as reflects our Glass.
+The _Him_ indeed of his own *Western Dome,
+    [Sidenote: _See his_, p. 27.]
+So near his praiseful Poet Sense may come:
+For *_Amiell_, _Amiell_, who cannot endite
+    [Sidenote: _See his_, p. 28.]
+Of his _Thin_ Value won't disdain to write?
+The very _Him_ with Gown and Mace did rule
+The _Sanedrim_, when guided by a Fool.
+The _Him_ that did both Sense and Reason shift,
+That he to gainful Place himself might lift.
+The very _Him_ that did adjust the Seed
+Of such as did their Votes for Money breed.
+The Mighty _Him_ that frothy Notions vents,
+In hope to turn them into Presidents.
+The _Him_ of _Hims_, although in Judgment small,
+That fain would be the biggest at _Whitehall_.
+The He that does for Justice Coin postpone,
+As on Account may be hereafter shown.
+If this plain _English_ be, 'tis far from Trick,
+Though some Lines gall, where others fawning lick;
+Which fits thy Poet, _Amiell_, for thy Smiles,
+If once more paid to blaze thy hated Toils.
+Of Things and Persons might be added more,
+Without Intelligence from Forreign Shore,
+Or what Designs Ambassadors contrive,
+Or how the Faithless _French_ their Compass guide:
+But Lines the busie World too much supply,
+Besides th'Effects of evil Poetry,
+Which much to _Tory_-Writers some ascribe,
+Though hop'd no Furies of the _Whiggish_ Tribe
+Will on their Backs such Lines or Shapes convey,
+To burn with Pope, on Great _November_'s Day.
+
+_FINIS._
+
+
+  [Erratum:
+
+  And such Heaven bids thee not relinquish too.
+    _text reads "relinqnish"_ ]
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+                    AZARIA
+                      AND
+                    HUSHAI,
+
+                       A
+                     POEM.
+
+       _Quod cuique visum est sentiant._
+
+                   _LONDON,_
+           Printed for _Charles Lee_,
+                 An. Dom. 1682.
+
+
+
+
+TO THE READER.
+
+I shall not go about, either to excuse, or justifie the Publishing of
+this Poem; for that would be much more an harder Task than the Writing
+of it: But however, I shall say, in the words of the Author of the
+incomparable _Absalom_ and _Achitophel_, _That I am sure the Design is
+honest_. If Wit and Fool be the Consequence of _Whig_ and _Tory_, no
+doubt, but Knave and Ass may be Epithets plentifully bestowed upon me by
+the one party, whilst the other may grant me more favourable ones, than
+perhaps I do deserve. But as very few are Judges of Wit, so I think,
+much fewer of honesty; since Interest and Faction on either side,
+prejudices and blinds the Judgment; and the violence of Passion makes
+neither discernible in an Adversary. I know not whether my Poem has a
+_Genius_ to force its way against prejudice: Opinion sways much in the
+World, and he that has once gained it writes securely. I speak not this
+any ways to lessen the merits of an Author, whose Wit has deservedly
+gained the Bays; but in this I have the advantage, since, as I desire
+not Glory or vain applause, I can securely wrap my self in my own Cloud,
+and remain unknown, whilest he is exposed through his great Lustre.
+I shall never envy what I desire not, nor am I altogether so doting, as
+to believe the Issues of my own Brain to exceed all others, and to be so
+very fond of them, (as most Authors, especially Poets, are) as to think
+them without fault, or be so blinded as not to see their blemishes, and
+that they are excelled by others; yet since Poems are like Children,
+it may be allowed me to be naturally inclined to have some good Opinion
+of my own, and not to believe this Poem altogether despicable or
+ridiculous. The Ancients say, that every thing hath two handles, I have
+laid hold of that opposite to the Author of _Absalom_: As to Truth, who
+has the better hold, let the World judge; and it is no new thing, for
+the same Persons, to be ill or well represented, by several parties.
+I hope then, I may be excused as well as another, since I have told my
+Dreams with the same Liberty, for the fancies of Poets are no more than
+waking Dreams, and never imposed as dogmatical precepts, which are more
+agreeable to truth or falshood, or according to the Poets Language,
+which proceed from the Horny or Ivory Port, will be sentenced according
+to the Humour and Interest of several Parties who in spite of our Teeth
+will be our judges. Where I have been satyrical, 'tis without Malice or
+Revenge; and though I brag not of my Talent therein, I could have said
+much worse, of some Enemies to our _Jewish_ Heroe. He that will lash
+others, ought not to be angry if the like be returned to himself: _Lex
+talionis_ is a general and natural Law. I call not this an Answer to
+_Absalom_, I have nothing to do with him, he was a Rebel to his Father;
+my _Azaria_ a good Son, influenced by a worthy and Loyal Counsellor, and
+_Achitophel_ and _Hushai_ were men of contrary Opinions, and different
+Principles: And if Poets (as it is often brought for their excuse, when
+they vary from known History) ought to represent Persons as they ought
+to be, I have not transcurred the Precepts of Poetry, and _Absalom_ is
+not so good a Poem, because his Character is not so agreeable to the
+virtue of an Heroe, as this of _Azaria_ is: But certainly when Poetry
+and Truth are joyned together, and that the persons are truly what they
+are represented, and liv'd their Character, the glory is double, both to
+the Heroe and the Poet: And I could wish, that the same Hand, that drew
+the Rebellious Son, with so much Ingenuity and Skill, would out do mine,
+in shewing the virtues of an obedient Son and loyal Counsellor, since
+he may have as much Truth for a Foundation to build upon, the Artful
+Structure of the Heroes Glory, with his own Fame and Immortality.
+
+
+
+
+               AZARIA AND HUSHAI,
+
+                    A POEM.
+
+
+In Impious Times, when Priest-craft was at height,
+And all the Deadly Sins esteemed light;
+When that Religion only was a Stale,
+And some bow'd down to God, and some to _Baal_;
+When Perjury was scarce esteem'd a Sin,
+And Vice, like flowing Tides, came rowling in;
+When Luxury, Debauch, and Concubine,
+The sad Effects of Women and of Wine,
+Rag'd in _Judea_ and _Jerusalem_,
+Good _Amazia_ of great _David_'s Stem,
+God-like and great in Peace did rule that Land,
+And all the _Jews_ stoop'd to his just Command.
+Long now in _Sion_ had he Peace enjoy'd,
+After that Civil Broils the Land destroy'd:
+Plenty and Peace attended on his Reign,
+And _Solomon_'s Golden days return'd again;
+When the Old _Canaanites_, who there did lurk,
+Began to find both God and King new Work:
+For _Amazia_, tho' he God did love,
+Had not cast out _Baal_'s Priests, and cut down every Grove.
+Too oft Religion's made pretence for Sin,
+About it in all Ages Strife has been;
+But Int'rest, which at bottom doth remain,
+Which still converts all Godliness to Gain,
+What e'er Pretence is made, is the true Cause,
+That moves the Priest, and like the Load-stone draws.
+The _Canaanites_ of Old that Land possess'd,
+And long therein Idolatry profess'd;
+Till Sins of Priests, and of the Common Rout,
+Caus'd God and his good Kings to cast them out.
+Their Idols were pull'd down, their Groves destroy'd,
+Strict Laws against them, and their Worship made.
+The Heathen Priests were banish'd from the Land
+Of _Baal_, no Temple suffer'd was to stand;
+And all Succeeding Kings made it their Care,
+They should no more rear up their Altars there.
+If some mild Kings did wink at their Abode,
+They to the _Jews_ still prov'd a Pricking-goad:
+Growing more bold, they penal Laws defy'd,
+And like tormenting Thorns, stuck in their Side.
+The busy Priests had lost their gainful Trade,
+Revenge and Malice do then Hearts invade;
+And since by Force they can't themselves restore,
+Nor gain the Sway they in _Judea_ bore,
+With Hell they Joyn their secret Plots to bring
+Destruction to _Judea_ and its King.
+
+  The _Chemerarims_, the learnedst Priests, of all
+The numerous Swarms which did belong to _Baal_,
+Bred up in subtil Arts, to _Jews_ well known,
+And fear'd for Bloody Morals of their own;
+Who in the Cause of _Baal_ no one would spare,
+But for his sake on all Mankind make War,
+Counting it lawful Sacred Kings to smite,
+Who favor'd not their God, or was no _Baalite_,
+These were the Idol's known, and great Support,
+Who in Disguise creep into every Court,
+Where they soon Faction raise, and by their Arts,
+Insinuate into the Princes Hearts:
+Wriggle themselves into Intreagues of State,
+Sweet Peace destroy, and Bloody Wars create.
+Unwearied still, they deep Designs pursue;
+What can't a _Chemarim_, and _Belzeebub_ do?
+For cunning Plot, Trepan, for Oaths and Sham,
+The Devil must give place to _Chemarim_.
+These subtil Priests, in Habit black and grave;
+Each man a Saint in shew, in Heart a Knave,
+Did in _Judea_ swarm, grew great withall,
+And like th' _Egyptian Frogs_ to Court they crawl:
+Where, like them too, they never are at rest;
+But Bed and Board of Kings, with Filth infest.
+To every Shape they could themselves transform,
+Angels could seem, but still their Aim was Harm.
+They all the Sects among the _Jews_ could ape,
+And went about disguiss'd in every Shape.
+One imitates the _Zealous Pharisee,_
+The _Essens_ this, the dammee _Sadduce_ he;
+And such their ready, and their subtil Wit,
+For every Trade, and every Science fit:
+They Credit got, and stole into the Heart,
+And from their God, did many Souls pervert,
+Who seeming _Jews_, or what they were before,
+In Secret did the Idol _Baal_ adore;
+Whole false Religion was but loose, and few
+Could bear the Righteous Strictness of the true.
+
+  Thus these Disciples of the hellish Brood,
+Disguis'd, among the _Jews_, themselves intrude,
+And with the purer Wheat, their Tares they sow,
+Saw their bad Crop near to an Harvest grow,
+And hop'd that they again should rule the State:
+For e'er the days of good _Jehosaphat_,
+Through all the Land _Baal_'s Worship was allow'd,
+And King and People to gross Idols bow'd.
+The Priests, like Bloody Tyrants did command;
+They and their Gods, did wholly rule the Land;
+And every one who would not bow to _Baal_,
+Fled thence, or else by Fire, or Sword did fall:
+But that good King a Reformation made,
+Their Idols, and their Groves he quite destroy'd;
+In every place their Altars overthrew,
+And _Chemarims_ he banished or slew.
+Since when (except in _Athaliah_'s Reign,
+Who for a space, set Idols up again,
+Tormenting those to Death who would not turn,
+And did the _Jewish Rabbins_ slay or burn)
+These crafty Priests, by Plots did never cease,
+To spoil the Beauty of _Judea's_ Peace.
+Whilst _Joash_ reign'd, by sly and subtil Arts,
+They first estrang'd from him his Peoples Hearts.
+Saw Faction's Sparks, and unseen blew the Fire,
+Till Rebells 'gainst that good King did conspire:
+Then Cursed _Zabed_ of proud _Ammon_'s Line,
+And _Moabitish Jehozabad_ joyn,
+And to their Side some _Pharisees_ they drew,
+(_Joash_ did to their Sect no Favor shew)
+And th' _Essens_, who then daily numerous grew,
+Rebell, and their good King, like Murtherers, slew.
+Then _Amazia_ over _Jordan_ fled,
+Till God had struck the Tyrant _Zabed_ dead;
+When all his Subjects, who his Fate did moan,
+With joyful Hearts, restor'd him to his Throne;
+Who then his Father's Murtherers destroy'd,
+And a long, happy, peaceful Reign enjoy'd.
+Belov'd of all, for merciful was He,
+Like God, in the Superlative Degree.
+The _Jewish_ Sects he did not seek to quell,
+Yet Laws he made they might no more rebell:
+Wisely about them made of Laws a Fence,
+Yet kind, would not oppress their Conscience.
+The _Pharisee_, a very numerous Sect,
+Above the rest were in their Worship strict:
+In their own _Synagogues_ he let them pray,
+And worship God after their stricter way.
+In Peace all liv'd, and former strife forgot,
+The _Chemarims_ and Hell had hatch'd a Plot:
+A Plot form'd in the deep Abyss below,
+Law and Religion both to overthrow.
+The King was by their Bloody Swords to fall,
+That all _Judea_ might submit _to Baal_.
+Great were their Hopes, and deep was their Design.
+The Train already laid to spring their Mine;
+Not dreaming Heav'n could their Plots betray,
+They only waited an auspicious day.
+Nor fail'd their Plot for want of Common Sence,
+As some endeavor'd to persuade the Prince:
+For with much Art, great Industry and Care,
+They all things for their black Design prepare.
+Not hatch'd by Common Brains, or men of Earth,
+Nor was't the Issue of a suddain Birth;
+But long designing, and well laid it seems,
+By _Baal_'s _Arch-priests_, and subtil _Chemarins_.
+The _Canaanites_ dispersed through the Land,
+O'er whom _Baal_'s Priests had absolute Command,
+Were bound with Oaths, the Priests Religious Charms,
+To Secresie, and furnished with Arms.
+Heads they had got, as well as Hands to fight,
+Some zealous Princes of the _Canaanites_,
+Who ready were to guide the Common Rout,
+So soon as their Conspiracy broke out.
+_AEgypt_ of Warlike _Jews_ was still afraid,  }
+Lest as of Old, they should that Land invade, }
+To further this Design had promis'd Aid.      }
+Thus on a firm Foundation they had wrought
+Their great Design, well built to Humane thought:
+Tho' nothing that weak Mortals e'er design'd,
+But Folly seems to the Eternal Mind,
+Who blasting man's vain Projects, lets him know,
+He sits above, sees and rules all below.
+This wicked Plot, the Nations Bain and Curse,
+So bad no man can represent it worse:
+Want only _Amazia_ to destroy,
+But that they might the Rites of _Baal_ enjoy:
+For the good _Amazia_ being gone,
+They had design'd a _Baalite_ for the Throne.
+Of all their Hopes and Plots, here lay the Store:
+For what Encouragement could they have more,
+When they beheld the King's own Brother fall,
+From his Religion, and to worship _Baal_?
+The Priest well knew what Pow'r, and what Controul
+He had usurp'd o're ev'ry _Baalite_'s Soul,
+That such a Prince must their God's Cause pursue,
+And do whatever they would have him do;
+Else from his Throne he should be curs'd and damn'd:
+For _Baal_'s High-Priest, a Right t' all Crowns had claim'd.
+An Article 'tis of a _Baalite_'s Faith,
+That o're Crown'd Heads a Sovereignty he hath.
+
+  Thus on a sure Foundation, as they thought,
+They had their Structure to Perfection wrought
+When God, who shews regard to Sacred Kings, }
+The Plot and Plotters to Confusion brings,  }
+And in a moment down their _Babel_ flings.  }
+A _Levite_, who had _Baalite_ turn'd, and bin
+One of the Order of the _Chemarim_,
+Who in the Plot had deeply been concern'd,
+And all their horrid Practices had learn'd;
+Smote in his Conscience with a true Remorse,
+From King and Land diverts the threat'ning Curse.
+_Libni_, I think they call'd the _Levite_'s Name,
+Which in _Judea_ still will be of Fame;
+Since following Heaven's Impulse and high Command,
+He prov'd a Glorious Saviour of the Land.
+By him the deep Conspiracy's o'rethrown,
+The Treason, and the Traytors all made known:
+For which from _Baalites_ he had Curses store;
+But by the _Jews_ loaded with Blessings more.
+The Hellish Plotters were then seiz'd upon,
+And into Goals and Iron Fetters thrown;
+From whence to Lawful Tryals they were born,
+Condemn'd for Traytors, and hang'd up with Scorn:
+Yet _Chemarims_ with matchless Impudence,
+With dying Breath avow'd their Innocence:
+So careful of their Order they still were,
+Lest Treason in them Scandal should appear,
+That Treason they with Perjury pursue,
+Having their Arch-priest's Licence so to do.
+They fear'd not to go perjur'd to the Grave,
+Believing their Arch-priest their Souls could save:
+For all God's Power they do on him bestow,
+And call him their Almighty God below.
+To whom they say three powerful Keys are given,
+Of Hell, of Purgatory, and of Heav'n.
+No wonder then if _Baalites_ this believe,
+They should, with their false Oaths try to deceive,
+And gull the People with their Dying Breath,
+Denying all their Treason at their Death.
+This made Impression on some easie Minds,
+Whom or good Nature, or false Pity blinds;
+Mov'd their Compassion, and stirr'd up their Grief,
+And of their dying Oaths caus'd a Belief.
+This did effect what the curs'd Traytors sought,
+The Plots Belief into Discredit brought,
+Of it at first, some Doubts they only rais'd,
+And with their Impudence the World amaz'd:
+Tho' _Azyad_'s Murder did the _Jews_ convince,
+Who was a man most Loyal to his Prince,
+And by the Bloody _Chemarims_ did fall,
+Because he seiz'd the Trayt'rous Priests of _Baal_:
+Tho' _Gedaliah_'s Letters made all plain,
+Who was their Scribe, and of a ready Brain:
+A _Levite's_ Son, but turn'd a _Baalite_,
+Who for the King's own Brother then did write,
+And Correspondence kept i'th' _Egyptian_ Court,
+To whom the Traytors for Advice resort;
+Who like a zealous, trayt'rous _Baalite_ dy'd,
+And at the Fatal Tree the Plot deny'd.
+Tho' _Amazia_ did at first believe,
+And to the Hellish Plot did Credit give;
+Tho' the Great Council of the _Sanhedrim_,
+Among the _Jews_ always of great Esteem,
+Declar'd to all the World this Plot to be,
+An Hellish, and a curs'd Conspiracy,
+To kill the King, Religion to o'rethrow,
+And cause the _Jews_ their Righteous Laws forgoe;
+To make the People to dumb Idols fall,
+And in the place of God, to set up _Baal_:
+Tho' all the People saw it, and believ'd;
+Tho' Courts of Justice, hard to be deceiv'd,
+Had added to the rest their Evidence,
+Yet with a strange unheard of Impudence,
+The _Baalites_ all so stoutly had deny'd        }
+Their Hellish Plot, with Vows and Oaths beside, }
+And with such Diligence themselves apply'd.     }
+They at the last, their sought for point had got,
+And artfully in doubt had brought their Plot.
+A thousand cunning Shams and Tricks they us'd,
+Whereby the simple Vulgar were abus'd;
+And some o'th' _Edomitish_ Evidence,
+Who _Mammon_ worship'd, were brought off with pence.
+_Libni_, for whom, before their Harps they strung, }
+Who was the Subject of each _Hebrew_'s Song,       }
+Was villify'd by every Rascall's Tongue.           }
+In Secret, and inglorious did remain,
+And the Plot thought the Project of his Brain.
+
+  The _Baalites_ thus encourag'd by Success,
+Increase their Hopes, and their black Projects bless:
+Like the bold _Titans_, Plot on Plot they lay,
+And Heav'n it self with impious Arms essay.
+A new Invention wrought in Hell below,
+The _Jews_, and their Religion to o'erthrow;
+They bring to light, with this their Hopes they raise,
+And for dire Plots, think they deserve the Bays.
+This Engine stronger than th' old _Roman_ Ram
+For Battery, by a new name call'd Sham,
+With well learn'd, and successful Arts they use
+To overthrow the _Syn'gogues_ of the _Jews_,
+Their Worship and Religion to confound.
+And lay their Glorious Temple on the Ground.
+With this new Engine, they a Breach had made,
+By which they hop'd the Loyal _Jews_ t' invade.
+With Troops of Treasons, and Rebellious Plots,
+Led on by Villains, perjur'd Rogues and Sots;
+And with such Arms, in Hells black Work-house form'd,
+The peaceful _Jews_ they violently storm'd;
+Who 'gainst the _Ba'lites_ Plots had no defence,
+But God, their Laws, and their own Innocence.
+
+  Among the Princes of the _Jewish_ Race,
+For Wisdom, _Hushai_ had the Chiefest Place,
+Prudent in Speech, and in his Actions close,
+Admir'd by all, and feared by his Foes;
+Well skill'd, and knowing in the _Jewish_ Laws,
+Able to plead, and to defend a Cause,
+Of piercing Judgment, and of pregnant Wit,
+Did once Chief Judge of all _Judea_ sit;
+Was then esteem'd the Honor of the Gown,        }
+And with his Vertues sought to serve the Crown, }
+Till Foes procur'd him _Amazia_'s Frown.        }
+Then he descended from the hight of Place,
+Without a Blemish, and without Disgrace;
+Yet inly griev'd; for he could well divine
+The Issue of the _Baalites_ curs'd Design,
+To see Religion, and God's Righteous Cause,
+The Ancient Government, the Nation's Laws,
+Unpropping, and all ready strait to fall,
+And the whole Race of _Jews_ made Slaves to _Baal_:
+With Zeal inspired, boldly up he 'rose,
+To wrestle with the King's, and Nation's Foes;
+And tho' he was with Wealth and Honor blest,
+He scorn'd to give his Age its needful Rest:
+He learn'd, that man was not born for himself,
+To get great Titles, Names, or sordid Pelf,
+To wear a lazy Life, himself to please,
+With Idleness, and with luxurious Ease:
+When he beheld his Country in distress,
+And none the Danger able to redress,
+He did resolve, tho' not affecting Fame,
+Or to obtain a Patriot's Glorious Name,
+His Rest, his Life, his Fortune to expose,
+Rather than see his Countrey's dangerous Foes
+Run on uncheck'd, till they had brought the Land,
+To their, and to a _Baalite_ King's Command.
+He could not therefore so himself forget,
+To see the Barques of Government o'erset;
+But with his Skill he help'd the Boat to trim,
+And boldly did oppose _Eliakim_.
+_Eliakim_ was Brother to the King,
+From the same Loins, and Royal _Seed_ did spring;
+Of Courage bold, and of a daring mind,             }
+To whom the King, ev'n to Excess was kind;         }
+And tho' he had a Son, for him the Crown design'd. }
+Sweet _Azaria_, like the beauteous Morn,
+Whence all Sweets flow, did once that Court adorn,
+A budding Rose, whose Beauty's newly blown,
+Or like a Cedar on Mount _Lebanon_:
+He in his Father's Grace, and Favor grew,
+And towards him the People's Eyes he drew.
+He was by most belov'd, admir'd by all,
+For's Zeal to God, and's Hatred unto _Baal_:
+But ah! this mov'd the cursed _Baalite_'s Hate,
+Disturb'd his Peace, and Troubles did create.
+What can't Design and Hellish Malice do?
+With Lyes they close this Noble Prince pursue.
+They think his Father too indulgent grown,
+Whose Love had many Blessings on him thrown,
+But what exceeded all the rest beside,
+He chose the sweet _Jerusha_ for his Bride:
+A Blessing he esteemed far above
+The Crown, and all things but his Father's Love:
+For that he still above his Life did prize,
+Dear as his Fame, and dearer than his Eyes.
+Below his Feet, for that he all things trod,
+Adoreing nothing more except his God.
+Young as he was, he had acquired Fame,
+His Breast infired with a Warlike Flame,
+In Foreign Wars, his Courage he had shown,
+Had Lawrels won, and brought home fair Renown:
+Happy, most happy, till with wondrous Art,
+His Foes had wrought him from his Father's Heart;
+And so much Power on _Amazia_ won,
+He by Degrees, grew jealous of his Son.
+And who for this can _Amazia_ blame,
+If that the King the Father overcame?
+For Crowns by Kings esteemed are more near,
+Than Children, or than Sons, belov'd more dear.
+His Foes, _Baal_'s Friends, had laid their artful Snairs,
+Hight'ned his Father's Jealousies and Fears,
+And made each innocent Action of the Prince,
+To give his Jealous Father an Offence.
+If with wise _Hushai_ they the Prince did see,
+They call'd their Meeting a Conspiracy,
+And cry, that he was going to rebell:
+Him _Absalom_ they name, _Hushai_ _Achitophel_.
+With Slander thus the Prince they did pursue,
+Aiming at's Life, and the wise _Hushai_'s too.
+When they much pleased, and triumphing saw,
+The King his Royal Favors to withdraw,
+Which like a Spring on him before did flow,
+And from him, all on others to bestow:
+Defenceless left, naked, almost forlorn,
+Subject to every trifling Rhimers Scorn,
+And beyond _Jordan_ by their malice drove,
+No Succor left him but the People's Love;
+(For he was still their Darling and Delight,
+Because they saw he was no _Baalite_,)
+Their Hopes now almost at their Height did seem,
+To place the Crown upon _Eliakim_.
+
+  The _Jews_, God's People and peculiar Care,
+For their true Worship still most zealous were;
+That Jewel seem'd most pretious in their Eyes,
+And it above all Humane things they prize.
+No Torments could make them their Faith deny,
+They willingly for their Religion die:
+Their Liberties were also dear to them,
+Sprung from a free, and not a slavish Stem,
+Th' _Egyptian_ Bondage for their Souls unfit,
+They never in _Judea_ would permit;
+Their own known Laws, they willingly obey,
+Hate Tyranny and Arbitrary Sway:
+Nor did they many Priviledges want,
+Kept from the Time they first the Land did plant;
+For which to Death they lawfully would strive,
+If injur'd by their King's Prerogative:
+For some of them have try'd to break the Bound,
+And did like _Ethnick_ Kings, their People's Freedom wound,
+So _Rehoboam_ caus'd them to rebell,
+And lost at once ten Tribes of _Israel_.
+No people were more ready to obey
+Their Kings, who rul'd them by a gentle Sway,
+Who never sought their Consciences to curb,
+Their Freedom or Religion to disturb.
+To such they always open-hearted were,
+For them, they neither Coin, nor Blood would spare.
+Such Kings might their Prerogatives improve,
+And rule the _Jews_, ev'n as they pleas'd with Love;
+But stiff indeed they were, and moody grew,      }
+When Tyrants did with cruel Stripes pursue       }
+Them sore oppress'd, and sometimes murmur'd too. }
+Kings they had try'd of ev'ry sort and size.
+Best govern'd by the Warlike and the wise.
+Tho' Kings they lov'd, and for them Reverence had,
+They never would adore them as a God.
+God's Worship, and their Laws they did prefer,
+They knew, them men might by bad Councils Err.
+Tho' Loyal, yet oppress'd, they did not fear
+To make their heavy Grievances appear.
+This was indeed the Humor of the _Jew_,
+The People by Complaints their Griefs would shew;
+And never would, in truth, contented seem,
+Untill redress'd by their wise _Sanhedrim_.
+Thus now the _Jews_, tho' free from ill Design,
+In their Religious Cause together joyn:
+They cast their Eyes on _Amazia_'s Son,
+Who, without Arts the People's Love had won:
+Full of tormenting Jealousies and Fears,
+_Eliakim_ a dangerous man appears:
+The sober part of the whole _Sanhedrim_,
+Desire to keep _Judea's_ Crown from him:
+For they foresaw if he should wear the Crown,
+_Baal_'s Worship he'd set up, and God's cast down:
+That all the Nations must be Slaves to _Baal_,
+Suffer in Flames, fly, or 'fore Idolls fall.
+Great were their Fears, but yet they did abhor
+The very Thought of a dishonest War:
+For they had seen the Kingdom's many Scarrs,
+Th' unseemly Marks of former Civil Wars.
+They _Amazia_ lov'd and wish'd him well,
+Resolve to suffer rather than rebell;
+Yet openly declare free from all Stain,
+How much they hate a _Baalite_ should Reign;
+And for this Cause, and for this Cause alone,
+_Eliakim_ they'd put by from the Throne.
+
+  _Eliakim_ at Court had many Friends,
+By whom in Secret he could work his Ends;
+So that no Accusation could remove
+Him, deeply rooted in his Brother's Love.
+But since the _Jews_ to him shew'd open Hate,
+Lest that his presence should embroil the State;
+And that the _Jews_ might have no cause to sin,
+He's sent to rule the Tribe of _Benjamin_.
+Thus two great Factions in _Judea_ rose,              }
+So hotly each the other did oppose,                   }
+'Twas fear'd they'd fall at last from Words to Blows. }
+Each side most zealous for the King appears,
+Each full of Jealousies and disturbing Fears,
+Each pleads for _Amazia_ and the Laws,
+God and Religion both do make their Cause:
+Both Loyalty profess, both opposite,            }
+Both would persuade that each was in the right, }
+Tho' both contrary shew as day and night.       }
+Sweet _Azaria_ with these Troubles mov'd,
+On that side hated, and by this belov'd;
+Fearing th' inveterate Malice of his Foes,
+Which he sought to avoid, not to oppose,
+And lest they should their sought Occasion find, }
+To tax him of an ill ambitious mind,             }
+By seeing all the _Jews_ to him so kind;         }
+Lest he should grow i'th' King's Opinion worse,
+He seeks for Council how to steer his Course,
+That he might to the Court give no Offence,
+But live wrapt up in his own fair Innocence,
+The wise and thoughtful _Hushai_ he doth find,
+And thus to him he breaks his troubled Mind,
+Great Councellor, and Favorite of Heav'n,
+To whom the Blessing of true Wisdom's giv'n,
+Which by no Mortal can possessed be,
+Whose Thoughts are not inform'd by Loyalty.
+I know Reproaches upon you are thrown;
+But judge your Innocency by my own.
+I am accused Sir, as well as you,
+And the same Foe doth both our Lives pursue.
+He fears your Wisdom, may his Hindrance prove,
+And me, because I have the People's Love:
+His Creatures therefore throw on you and me,
+The Scandal of a curs'd Conspiracy,
+Against our King and Father to rebell:
+Me _Absalom_, and you _Achitophel_
+They name; bad Councellor, and worser Son,
+Who Traytors, durst into Rebellion run.
+My Father governs with so equal Sway,
+That all both love him, and his Laws obey:
+He seems Heav'n's Care, who set him in the Throne,
+Preserved by his wondrous Power alone.
+Oh may on him no Blemish fall or stain,
+But all live happy in his peaceful Reign:
+May he be happy still as he is good,
+Like God in Mercy, not inclin'd to Blood.
+This is the Prayer that I daily make; }
+For Piety shall never me forsake,     }
+Tho' I his Royal Favor ne'er partake. }
+And tho' my Foes have with their subtil Art
+Banish'd me from my Royal Father's Heart,
+Which is the Source of all my Grief and Woe,
+My just Obedience I will ne'er forgoe.
+Nor has Disgrace, nor my hot Passions wrought,
+Within my Breast one bad disloyal Thought.
+I ne'er believ'd my Father would betray
+His People, or sought Arbitrary Sway:
+Or tho' his People did his Wrath provoke,
+He meant to curb them with an Iron Yoak.
+Yet do I think, nay more than think, the Cause
+(But here his passion made some little pause,
+Till sighing, at the last he thus went on)
+Why my Great Father does disown his Son;
+They say I am but of a spurious Brood,
+My Mother being of Ignoble Blood:
+For _Jocoliah_ was but mean by Birth,
+Tho' with the King she mix'd her baser Earth.
+I was begotten in my Father's Flight,
+E'er to the Crown he had obtain'd his Right:
+And since I from his Favor did decline,
+He has declar'd her but his Concubine.
+This has the Hopes rais'd of _Eliakim_,
+And _Amaziah_'s Crown design'd for him;
+My Hopes are lost, and I do think it fit,
+I should to God, Right, and the King submit;
+But yet, wise _Hushai_ know, I still do find,
+My Birth has not so much debas'd my mind,
+To make me stoop to low or mean desires;
+I feel my Father's Royal Blood inspires
+My depress'd Soul, wipes off th' ignoble Stain,
+Renders me apt, or not unfit to reign.
+Of _David_'s Royal Blood, my self I own,
+And with it never can disgrace the Throne.
+Tho' my bold Spirits, mounting thus, do fly
+Towards the Noble hight of Sovereignty,
+And that I feel my Father's Blood to rowl
+Through every Vein and animate my Soul;
+Yet so much Loyalty is sown within
+My Breast, I would not Empire gain with Sin:
+For when my ambitious Thoughts begin to roam,
+Their Forces, I with that soon overcome.
+Tho' to God's Laws, and to the King's I yield,
+To my known Foes I would not leave the Field.
+I'd not be trampl'd on by sordid Feet,
+Nor take Affronts from ev'ry one I meet:
+I'd give no Cause they should my Courage doubt,
+Nor to Rebellion push the vulgar Rout,
+I to my Father would give no Offence,
+Nor while he lives, lay to the Crown Pretence;
+But since Life's sweet, by Wisdom I'd keep mine,
+From _Baalites_ Hate, and _Eliakim_'s Design:
+This my wise Friend, is my chief Business now,
+To take some Sage and good Advice from you.
+
+  _Hushai_ in Silence heard the Prince, and weigh'd
+Each word he spake, then to him thus reply'd;
+Great Prince, th' Almighty has to you been kind, }
+Stamp'd Graces on your Body and your mind,       }
+As if he for your Head a Crown design'd.         }
+We shall not search into Fates Secret Womb,
+God alone knows the things that are to come;
+But should you never sit on _David_'s Throne,
+'Tis better to deserve than wear a Crown.
+Of Royal Blood, and of great Birth you are,
+Born under some benign auspicious Star,
+Lov'd by the best, and prais'd by every Tongue,
+The glorious Subject of each worthy Song:
+The young man's Wish, Joy of each Warlike Wight,
+The People's Darling, and the World's Delight.
+A Crowd of Vertues fill your Princely Breast, }
+And what appears more glorious than the rest, }
+You are of Truth and Loyalty possest.         }
+That I would cherish in you, that would raise
+To an admired height, that I would chiefly praise.
+Let Fools and subtil Politicians scorn
+Fair Vertue, which doth best a Prince adorn:
+Whilst you her bright and shining Robes put on,
+You will appear more great than _Solomon_.
+Let not Great Prince, the Fumes of Vulgar Praise,
+Your bolder Spirits to Ambition raise.
+We cannot see into the Mist of Fate,
+Till time brings forth, you must expecting wait;
+But Fortune, rather Providence, not Chance,
+The constant, stout, and wise doth still advance.
+Let your quick Eye be to her Motions ty'd;
+But still let Noble Vertue be your Guide:
+For when that God and Vertue points the way,
+There can be then no danger to obey.
+But here in Wisdom's School we ought to learn,
+How we 'twixt Good and Evil may discern,
+For, noble Prince, you must true difference make,
+Lest for the one the other you mistake.
+You must not think you may your self advance,
+By laying hold on every proffer'd chance.
+Tho Fortune seems to smile, and egg you on,
+Let Vertue be your Rule and Guide alone.
+Thus _David_ for his Guide his Vertue took;
+Nor was by Fortune's proffer'd Kindness shook.
+His Vertue and his Loyalty did save
+King _Saul_, when Fortune brought him to his Cave,
+And if that I may to you Counsel give,
+You should without a Crown for ever live,
+Rather than get it by the Peoples Lust,
+Or purchase it by ways that are unjust.
+_David_ your Ancestor, from whom you spring,
+Would never by Rebellion be made King;
+But long in _Gath_ a Warring Exile stay'd,
+Till for him God a lawful way had made.
+In _Hebron_, full of Glory and Renown,
+He gain'd, at last, and not usurpt the Crown.
+By full Consent he did the same obtain,
+And Heav'n's anointing Oyl was not in vain.
+I once did seem to _Amazia_ dear,
+Who me above m'ambitious hopes did rear;
+I serv'd him then according to my skill,
+And bow'd my Mind unto my Soveraign's Will.
+Too neer the Soveraign Image then I stood,
+To think that every Line and Stroke was good.
+Some Daubers I endeavour'd to remove,
+And to amend their artless Errours strove.
+My Skill in secret these with slander wound;
+With every Line I drew still faults were found;
+Till wearied, I at last my Work gave o're. }
+And _Amazia_ (I shall say no more)         }
+Did me to my lov'd Privacy restore.        }
+For this they think I must my Vertue change,
+For Envy, Malice, and for sweet Revenge.
+Me by themselves they judge, who would do so,
+And cause the King suspect me for his Foe.
+But by th'advice I give, you best will find
+Th'Integrity and Plainness of my Mind;
+And that I harbour not that vile intent
+Their Poets and their Malice do invent.
+Far be't from me, to be like Cursed _Cham_;
+A good Son strives to hide his Father's shame.
+A King, the Father of his Country is;
+His shame is every Act he doth amiss.
+Good and just Kings God's Image bear; but when
+Their Frailties let us see they are but Men,
+We cannot every Action so applaud,
+As if it came from an unerring God.
+Kings have their Passions, and deceiv'd may be,
+When b'others Ears and Eyes they hear and see:
+For Sycophants, of Courts the Bane and Curse,
+Make all things better than they are, or worse.
+To Evil prone, to Mischief ever bent,        }
+Th'all Objects with false colours represent; }
+The Guilty clear, condemn the Innocent.      }
+Thus, noble Prince, they you and me accuse
+With all the Venome Malice can infuse.
+_Baal_'s Priests, Hell, and our Foes, new Arts have got,
+The filthy Reliques of their former Plot;
+Whereby they would our Lives in danger bring,
+And make us cursed Traytors to the King.
+What mayn't these cunning men hope to atchieve,
+When by their Arts few men their Plot believe?
+When b'horrid ways, not known to _Jews_ before,
+Their Plot's transform'd, and laid now at our door?
+But fear not, Sir, we have a sure Defence,
+The Peoples Love, God, Law, and Innocence.
+Keep fast your Vertue, and you shall be blest,
+And let alone to God and Time the rest.
+  The Noble Youth, with Vertues Robes arrai'd,
+Consider'd well what the wise _Hushai_ said.
+Desire of Power, though of Celestial Birth,
+Below, is ever intermixt with Earth:
+And all who do to hight of Place aspire,
+Have earthly Smoak mixt with their mounting Fire.
+Praise may debauch, and strong Ambition blind,
+Where heav'nly Vertue does not guard the Mind.
+But _Azaria_ so well understood,
+He left the Evil, and embrac'd the Good:
+Tho in his breast aspiring thoughts he found,
+Yet Loyalty still kept them within bound.
+And tho he might have Empire in his Eye,
+When to it by his bloud allay'd so nigh,
+Yet in his Soul such Virtue did remain,
+He by Rebellion would not Empire gain.
+Through every Vein his Loyal Bloud did run,
+Yet Royal too, as _Amazia_'s Son.
+About his noble Heart he felt it spring;
+Which let him know his Father was a King.
+If that to _Azaria_ were a Blot,
+His Father made it when he him begot:
+But Heav'n such Virtue moulded with his Soul,
+That his aspiring Lust it did controul.
+Thus to wise _Hushai_ he repli'd: I finde
+Your Counsel is agreeing with my Minde.
+And tho my Foes me an ill man do make,
+My Loyalty I never will forsake:
+Yet, prudent _Hushai_, do not Nature blame, }
+If I cannot, unmov'd, appear so tame        }
+As not to shew Resentment at my Shame.      }
+Oh, would to Heav'n I ne'er had been begot!
+Or never had been born a Royal Blot!
+My Father's Bloud runs thorow every Vein;         }
+He form'd those Spirits which desire to reign,    }
+Mount t'wards a Throne, and sordid Earth disdain. }
+In Glory, Fame, Crowns, Empire, they delight,
+And to all these they would assert my Right.
+And my great Thoughts do whisper there is none
+Can be more neer a Father, than his Son.
+This prompts me to oppose _Eliakim_,
+And never yield my Father's Crown to him.
+But then one groveling thought strait pulls me down,
+And throws me at a distance from The Crown.
+Oh, would to God------And here he stopt and sigh'd,
+Whilst _Hushai_ thus to the griev'd Prince repli'd.
+
+  Indeed, great Prince, it seemeth wondrous strange
+To all the World, to see your Father's change;
+To find the happy Love he us'd to show'r,
+Like fruitful Rain, on you, to fall no more:
+To see a Son, the Father's dear Delight,
+His pleasing Joy, now banish'd from his sight.
+Nature must in the Father deeply groan,
+When from his Heart is rent so dear a Son.
+Nor can I think, tho he from you should part,
+A Brother e'er can lie so near his Heart.
+To work this Change, your Foes much Art do use, }
+Their venom'd Tongues your Fathers Ears abuse,  }
+And you of an aspiring mind accuse.             }
+Justice in _Amazia_ bears such sway,
+That even Nature must to it give way;
+H'ad rather Nature force, and part with you,
+Than seem to rob another of his due.
+He holds it just, and as a thing divine,
+To keep unbroken still the Royal Line.
+Such an Example we can hardly find,
+A King to's Brother so exceeding kind;
+When by it he doth such great hazard run,
+Losing at once his People and his Son.
+Grieve not, great Prince, at your unhappy Fate; }
+Let not your Birth your Vertue to abate;        }
+It was not you that could your self create.     }
+I should great folly shew, should I repine
+At what I could not help, and was no fault of mine.
+Tho by your Mothers side your Birth was mean,
+And tho your Mother no declared Queen,
+If Heaven and your Father please, you may
+By lawful Right, _Judea_'s Scepter sway,
+After that he is number'd with the Dead,
+And his great Soul to _Abraham_'s Bosom fled.
+Possession of a Crown clears every Stain;
+No blot of Birth to you can then remain.
+What Pow'r on Earth, by Right, dares question you?
+Or what your Father and _Sanhedrim_ do?
+Nor is your Birth to Heaven any let;
+God _Jepthtah_ once did o're _Judea_ set.
+He was a Conquerour of a mighty Name,
+And's Mother no ways did eclipse his Fame,
+Nor bar'd him from the Title of a King,
+Nor those who after from his Loins did spring.
+Nature may yet make your great Father kind;
+And who can tell but he may change his mind,
+When your Succession shall be understood
+To be the Peoples Choice, and for the Nations Good?
+But let us leave what is to come, to Fate;
+Yours Father's pleasure and God's will await.
+Long may it be ere the King's life doth end;
+On it our Peace and Happiness depend.
+Like Wheat full ripe, with many years bow'd down,
+Let him leave this for an immortal Crown.
+And who can tell Heav'n's will? it may be too,
+_Eliakim_ may die before the King or you.
+Think of no Titles while your Father lives;
+Take not what an unjust Occasion gives.
+For to take Arms you can have no pretence,
+Tho it should be e'en in your own defence.
+It better were without the Crown to die,
+Than quit your Vertue and blest Loyaltie.
+You with the numerous Peoples Love are blest,
+Not of the Vulgars onely, but the Best.
+I would not have you their kind Love repel,
+Nor give encouragement for to rebel:
+For their Affection which they wildly shew,
+Is rendred, by your Foes, a Crime in you.
+Here you your Course must even steer and strait, }
+That you may not your Father's fears create;     }
+Keep the _Jews_ Love, and not increase his Hate. }
+Leave for a while the Citie and the Court,
+Go and divert your self with Country-sport;
+Perhaps your Foes may then abate their spight,
+And you may be forgot, when out of sight.
+By your Retirement, you will let them see
+You'd take away all cause of Jealousie.
+That you, like _Absalom_, will never prove,
+To court the head-strong Peoples factious Love.
+Nor will I ever prove _Achitophel_,
+To give you wicked Counsel to rebel.
+Continue still your Loyalty, be just;
+And for the Crown, God and your Vertue trust.
+Endeavour not to take what may be giv'n;
+Deserve it first, and then receive't from Heav'n.
+
+  He said, And this Advice above the rest,
+Suited with _Azaria_'s Vertue best.
+He was not stain'd with Cruelty or Pride;
+A thousand Graces he possest beside.
+To Vertue he was naturally inclin'd,
+And Goodness clothed his heroick Mind.
+His Kingly Vertues made him fit to reign,
+Yet scorn'd by evil Arts the Crown to gain.
+And tho he Empire to desire did seem,
+His Loyalty was still more dear to him:
+Therefore he did not court the Peoples Love,
+Nor us'd their Pow'r his Rival to remove.
+From's Father he fought not their Hearts to steal,
+Nor head a Faction mov'd by blinding Zeal;
+But like a vertuous and a pious Son,
+Sought all occasions of Offence to shun.
+In private like a common man sat down,
+His Peace his Rule, his Loyalty his Crown.
+
+  Thus humble, vertuous, loyal, void of Pride,
+Most of the _Jews_ he gained to his side.
+Not factious Sects, the Rabble, or the rude
+Erring, unthinking, vulgar Multitude:
+But the chief Tribes and Princes of the Land,
+Who durst for _Moses_'s ancient Statutes stand.
+The pious, just, religious, and the good,
+Men of great Riches, and of greater Bloud,
+Did, as one man, themselves together joyn
+To stop the _Baalites_, and Hell's curst design.
+Not wicked, or seduc'd by impious Arts,
+But Loyal all, and Patriots in their Hearts.
+For they beheld the _Baalites_ foul intent,
+Religion to o'rethrow and Government.
+These at the Monarch's Power did not grutch,
+Since bound by Laws, he could not have too much.
+What Laws prescribe, they thought he well might have,
+How could he else his Realm in danger save?
+But _Baal_'s or _Egypt_'s Yoke they would refuse,
+Not fitting for the Necks of free-born _Jews_.
+They all resolve the King not to oppose,
+Yet to defend the Nation from its Foes.
+And were it not for those great Worthy men,
+The _Jews_ distress'd and wretched soon had been.
+Among the Rout perhaps there some might blend,
+Whose int'rest made them Publick Good pretend;
+Weary of Peace, new Troubles would create,
+And for their private Gain, embroyl the State.
+And some perhaps there were, who thought a King
+To be of Charge, and but an useless thing.
+Some idle Fops, who publickly debate
+To shew their Parts, the deep Intrigues of State;
+These and some others, for a Commonwealth,
+Among the Herd, unseen, might hide by stealth:
+But it would strange to common Justice seem,
+For some few bad, the sound Flock to condemn.
+Like Goats among the Sheep, well known these bleat,
+And are like Darnel 'mong the purest Wheat.
+These not as Friends, but Enemies to the Throne,
+Good Patriots and good Subjects did disown.
+And _Azaria_, tho they us'd his name,
+Disdain'd their Friendship with a loyal shame.
+
+  But he beheld appearing on his side,
+Princes, whose Faith and Loyalty were try'd;
+Such as no base or sordid ends could move,
+Who did his Father and their Country love.
+In the first rank of these did _Nashon_ stand,
+None nobler or more loyal in the Land.
+Under the King he once did _Edom_ sway,
+And taught that Land the _Jews_ good Laws t'obey.
+True to his Word, and of unspotted Fame;
+Great both in Parts, in Vertue, and in Name.
+His Faith ne'r touch'd, his Loyalty well known,
+A Friend both to his Country and the Throne.
+Base ends his great and noble Soul did scorn,
+Of loyal, high, and noble Parents born.
+His Father with renown and great Applause,
+For _Joash_ di'd, and suffer'd for his Cause.
+Of great _Aminadab_ who would not sing,
+Whose glory shin'd next to the martyr'd King?
+From him his Son true Loyalty understood,
+Imprest on's Soul, seal'd with his Father's Bloud.
+The grave, religious, wife, rich _Helon_ too, }
+Much honoured by every zealous _Jew_,         }
+Appear'd a Patriot, to his Country true.      }
+In the _Jews_ Laws, and strict Religion bred,
+And _Baal_'s curst Rites did much abhor and dread.
+His Son _Eliab_, in the _Sanhedrim_,
+With courage had oppos'd _Eliakim_:
+A man whose many Vertues, and his Parts,
+Had won upon the sober Peoples Hearts.
+From every Faction, and from Envy free;     }
+Lov'd well the King, but hated Flatterie;   }
+Kept _Moses_'s Laws, yet was no _Pharisee_. }
+He went not to their _Synagogues_ to pray,
+But to the Holy Temple every day.
+With piercing Judgment saw the Lands Disease,
+And labour'd onely for the Kingdoms Peace:
+Loyal and honest was esteem'd by all,
+Excepting those who strove to set up _Baal_.
+For an ill Action he ne'r stood reprov'd;
+But's King, his Country, and Religion lov'd.
+No Taint ere fell upon _Eliab_'s name,
+Nor Hell it self found cause to spot his Fame.
+_Pagiel_ with honour loaded, and with years,
+Among this Loyal Princely Train appears.
+None _Pagiel_ tax'd, for no one ever knew
+That he to _Amazia_ was untrue.
+A Fame unspotted he might truly boast;
+Yet he had Foes, and his gain'd Favours lost.
+_Zuar_, a sober and a vertuous Prince,
+Who never gave least cause of an offence.
+_Elishama_, at once both sage and young,       }
+From noble and from loyal Fathers sprung,      }
+Shone bright among this sober Princely throng. }
+_Enan_, a Prince of very worthie Fame;
+Great in deserved Title, Bloud, and Name.
+_Elizur_ too, who number'd with the best
+In Vertue, scorn'd to lag behind the rest.
+_Abidon_ and _Gamaliel_ had some sway;
+Both loyal, and both zealous in their way.
+And now once more I will invoke my Muse,
+To sing brave _Ashur_'s praise who can refuse?
+Sprung from an ancient and a noble Race,
+With Courage stampt upon his manly face;
+Young, active, loyal; had through Dangers run,
+And with his Sword abroad had Honours won:
+Well-spoken, bold, free, generous, and kind,
+And of a noble and discerning mind.
+Great ones he scorn'd to court, nor fools would please,
+But thought it better for to trust the Seas.
+He thought himself far safer in a Storm,
+And should receive from raging Seas less harm,
+Than from those dangerous men, who could create
+A Storm at Land, with Envie and with Hate.
+And now got free from all their Trains and Wiles, }
+He at their hateful Plots and Malice smiles,      }
+Plowing the Ocean for new Honour toils.           }
+These were the chief; a good and faithful Band }
+Of Princes, who against those men durst stand  }
+Whose Counsel sought to ruine all the Land.    }
+With grief they saw the cursed _Baalites_ bent
+To batter down the _Jewish_ Government;
+To pull their Rights and true Religion down,
+By setting up a _Baalite_ on the Throne.
+These wisely did with the _Sanhedrim_ joyn;
+Which Council by the _Jews_ was thought divine.
+The next Successour would remove, 'tis true,
+Onely because he was a _Baalite_ Jew.
+Ills they foresaw, and the great danger found, }
+Which to the King (as by their Dutie bound)    }
+They shew'd, and open laid the bleeding Wound. }
+But such who had possest his Royal Ear,
+Had made the King his Loyal Subjects fear;
+Did their good Prince with causeless terrour fright,
+As if these meant to rob him of his Right.
+Said, They with other Rebels did combine,
+And had against his Crown some ill designe:
+That the wise _Hushai_ laid a wicked Train,
+And _Azaria_ sought in's stead to reign:
+That the old Plot to ruine Church and State,
+Was born from _Hushai_'s and the _Levite_'s Pate:
+That _Pharisees_ were bold and numerous grown,
+And sought to place their Elders in his Throne.
+No wonder then if _Amazia_ thought
+These Loyal Worthies did not as they ought;
+That they did Duty and Obedience want,
+And no Concessions from the Throne would grant.
+
+  They who in _Amazia_'s favour grew,
+Themselves obnoxious to the People knew.
+Some were accused by the _Sanhedrim_,
+Most Friends and Allies to _Eliakim_:
+For his Succession eagerly they strove,
+And him, the rising Sun, adore and love.
+When _Doeg_, who with _Egypt_ did combine,
+And to enslave _Judea_ did designe,
+Accus'd of Treason by the _Sanhedrim_,
+Kept in the Tower of _Jerusalem_;
+The Object prov'd of fickle Fortunes sport,
+And lost the Honours he possest at Court.
+_Elam_ in favour grew, out stript by none,
+And seem'd a Prop to _Amazia_'s Throne.
+He had in foreign parts been sent to School,
+And did in _Doeg_'s place the Kings thin Treasure rule.
+He to _Eliakim_ was neer alli'd;
+What greater parts could he possess beside?
+For the wise _Jews_ believ'd the King did run
+Some hazard, if he prov'd his Father's Son.
+But now, alas! th' Exchequer was grown poor,
+The Coffers empty, which did once run o're.
+The bounteous King had been so very kind,
+That little Treasure he had left behind.
+_Elam_ had gotten with the empty Purse,
+For his dead Father's sake the Peoples Curse:
+For they believ'd that no great good could spring
+From one false to his Country and his King.
+_Jotham_ the fickle Shuttle-cock of Wit,
+Was bandied several ways to be made fit:
+Unconstant, he always for Honour tri'd,
+At last laid hold upon the rising side.
+If Wit he had, 'twas thought, by not a few,
+He a better thing did want, and Wisdom too.
+Then _Amiel_ would scarce give place to him,
+Who once the chief was of the _Sanhedrim_.
+He then appeared for the Crowns defence;
+But spoke his own, and not the Nations sense.
+And tho he praised was by _Shimei_'s Muse,
+The _Jews_ of many Crimes did him accuse.
+_Harim_, a man like a bow'd Ninepence bent,
+Had tried all the ways of Government:
+Was once a Rebel, and knew how to cant;
+Then turn'd a very Devil of a Saint:
+Peevish, morose, and some say, prov'd a fool,
+When o're the _Edomites_ he went to rule.
+When to his bent the King he could not bring,
+He fairly then went over to the King.
+Old _Amalack_, a man of cunning head,
+Once in the cursed School of Rebels bred;
+From thence his Maximes and his Knowledge drew,
+Of old known Arts how to enslave the _Jew_.
+For pardon'd Treason, thus sought to atone,
+Had wrong'd the Father, would misguide the Son.
+Once in Religion a strict _Pharisee_,
+To _Baal_'s then turn'd, or else of none was he.
+He long before seem'd to approve their Rites,
+Marrying his issue to the _Baalites_.
+A constant hunter after sordid Pelf;
+Was never just to any but himself:
+A very _Proteus_ in all shapes had been,
+And constant onely, and grown old in sin.
+To speak the best of _Amalack_ we can,
+A cunning Devil in the shape of Man.
+_Muppim_, a man of an huge working Pate,
+Not how to heal, but to embroil the State;
+Knew how to take the wrong, and leave the right;
+Was once himself a Rebel _Benjamite_.
+To that stiff Tribe he did a while give Law,
+And with his iron Yokes kept them in aw.
+The Tyrant _Zabed_ less did them provoke,
+And laid upon their necks a gentler Yoke.
+Amongst that Tribe he left an hated Name,
+And to _Jerusalem_ from thence he came,
+Where he tyrannick Arts sought to intrude, }
+To learn which, _Amazia_ was too good,     }
+And better the _Jews_ temper understood.   }
+Refus'd, the Serpent did with Woman joyn,
+And Counsels gave th'_Egyptian_ Concubine.
+_Adam_, first Monarch, fell between these two;
+What can't the Serpent and a Woman do?
+These with some more of the like size and sort,
+In _Sion_ made up _Amazia_'s Court:
+Whilst his best friends became these Rulers scorn,
+Saw how they drove, and did in silence mourn.
+_Sion_ did then no Sacrifice afford;
+_Gibbar_ had taught the frugal King to board.
+Void were its Cellars, Kitchins never hot,
+And all the Feasts of _Solomon_ forgot.
+Others there were, whose Names I shan't repeat;
+_Eliakim_ had friends both small and great:
+And many, who then for his Favour strove,
+With their hot heads, like furious _Jehu_, drove.
+Some Wits, some Witless, Warriors, Rich and Poor,
+Some who rich Clothes and empty Titles wore;
+Some who knew how to rail, some to accuse,
+And some who haunted Taverns and the Stews.
+Some roaring Bullies, who ran th'row the Town
+Crying, God damn 'um, they'd support the Crown:
+Whose wicked Oaths, and whose blasphemous Rant,
+Had quite put down the holy zealous Cant.
+Some were for War, and some on Mischief bent;
+And some who could, for gain, new Plots invent.
+Some Priests and Levites too among the rest,
+Such as knew how to blow the Trumpet best:
+Who with loud noise and cackling, cri'd like Geese,
+For Rites, for Temple, and for dearer Fleece.
+'Twixt God and _Baal_, these Priests divided were; }
+Which did prevail, these greatly did not care;     }
+But headlong drove, without or wit or fear.        }
+The _Pharasees_ they curse, as Sons of _Cham,_
+And all dissenting _Jews_ to Hell they damn.
+_Shimei_ the Poet Laureate of that Age,
+The falling Glory of the _Jewish_ Stage,
+Who scourg'd the Priest, and ridicul'd the Plot,
+Like common men must not be quite forgot.
+Sweet was the Muse that did his wit inspire,
+Had he not let his hackney Muse to hire:
+But variously his knowing Muse could sing,
+Could _Doeg_ praise, and could blaspheme the King:
+The bad make good, good bad, and bad make worse,
+Bless in Heroicks, and in Satyrs curse.
+_Shimei_ to _Zabed_'s praise could tune his Muse,
+And Princely _Azaria_ could abuse.
+_Zimri_ we know he had no cause to praise,
+Because he dub'd him with the name of _Bays_.
+Revenge on him did bitter Venome shed,
+Because he tore the Lawrel from his head;
+Because he durst with his proud Wit engage,
+And brought his Follies on the publick Stage.
+Tell me, _Apollo_, for I can't divine,
+Why Wives he curs'd, and prais'd the Concubine;
+Unless it were that he had led his life
+With a teeming Matron ere _she_ was a Wife:
+Or that it best with his dear Muse did sute,
+Who was for hire a very Prostitute.
+The rising Sun this Poets God did seem,
+Which made him tune's old Harp to praise _Eliakim_.
+_Bibbai_, whose name won't in Oblivion rot,
+For his great pains to hide the _Baalites_ Plot,
+Must be remembred here: A Scribe was he,
+Who daily damn'd in Prose the _Pharisee_.
+With the Sectarian _Jews_ he kept great stir;
+Did almost all, but his dear self, abhor.
+What his Religion was, no one could tell;
+And it was thought he knew himself not well:
+Yet Conscience did pretend, and did abuse,
+Under the notion of Sectarian _Jews_,
+All that he thought, or all that did but seem
+Foes to _Baal_'s Rites, _Eliakim_, and him.
+He was a man of a pernicious Wit
+For railing, biting, and for mischief fit:
+He never slept, yet ever in a Dream;
+Religion, Law, and State, was all his Theam.
+On these he wrote in _Earnest_ and in _Jeast_,
+Till he grew mad, and turn'd into a Beast,
+_Zattue_ his Zanie was, Buffoon, and Fool,
+Who turn'd Religion into Ridicule:
+Jeer'd at the Plot, did _Sanhedrims_ abuse,
+Mock'd Magistrates, damn'd all Sects of the _Jews_.
+Of little Manners, and of lesser Brains;
+Yet to embroil the State, took wondrous pains.
+In jeasting still his little Talent lay;
+At _Hushai_ scoft in's witless grinning way.
+
+  These with the rest, of every size and sort,      }
+Strove to be thought Friends to the King and Court, }
+With lyes and railing, would the Crown support.     }
+Then in a Pageant shew a Plot was made,
+And Law it self made War in Masquerade.
+But fools they were, not warn'd by former ill,
+By their own selves were circumvented still.
+They thought by Bloud to give the Kingdom ease;
+Physick'd the _Jews_ when they had no Disease.
+Contingent mischiefs these did not foresee,
+Against their Conscience fought, and God's Decree.
+What shall we think, when such, pretending good,
+Would build the Nations Peace on Innocent Blood?
+These would expose the People to the Sword
+Of each unbounded Arbitrary Lord.
+But their good Laws, by which they Right enjoy,
+The King nor could, nor ever would destroy.
+And tho he Judge be of what's fit and just,
+He own'd from Heaven, and from Man a Trust.
+Tho Laws to Kingly Power be a Band,
+They are not Slaves to those whom they command.
+The Power that God at first to _Adam_ gave,
+Was different far from what all Kings now have:
+He had no Law but Will; but all Kings now
+Are bound by Laws, as all Examples show.
+By Laws Kings first were made, and with intent
+Men to defend, by Heav'n's and Man's consent.
+God to the Crown the Regal Power did bring,
+And by Consent at first, Men chose their King.
+If Kings usurp'd a Power, by force did sway,
+The People by no Law were bound t'obey.
+This does not in the People place a Right
+To dissolve Soveraign sway by force or might.
+To Kings, by long succession, there is giv'n
+A native Right unto the Throne, by Heav'n:
+Who may not be run down by common Cry,
+For Vice, Oppression, and for Tyranny.
+But if that Kings the tyes of Laws do break,
+The People, without fault, have leave to speak;
+To shew their Grievances, and seek redress
+By lawful means, when Kings and Lords oppress.
+Tho they can't give and take, whene'r they please,
+And Kings allow'd to be God's Images.
+The Government you Tyranny must call,
+Where Subjects have no Right, and Kings have all.
+But if reciprocal a Right there be,
+Derived down unto Posteritie,
+That side's in fault, who th'other doth invade,
+By which soe'r at first the breach is made:
+For Innovation is a dangerous thing,
+Whether it comes from People or from King.
+To change Foundations which long Ages stood,
+Which have prov'd firm, unshaken, sound, and good,
+To pull all down, and cast the Frame anew,
+Is work for Rebels, and for Tyrants too.
+
+  Now what relief could _Amazia_ bring,
+Fatal indeed to be too good a King?
+Friends he had many, but them did not know,
+Or else made to believe they were not so:
+For all that did ill Ministers oppose,
+Were represented to him as his Foes.
+Yet there were many thousands in those days,
+Who _Amazia_ did both love and praise;
+Who for him daily pray'd, and wish'd his good,
+And for him would have spent both Coin and Bloud.
+Yet these, tho the more numerous, and the best,
+Were call'd but murmuring Traytors by the rest:
+By such who strain'd till they had crackt the string
+Of Government; lov'd Pow'r, and not the King
+These daily hightned _Amazia_'s fears,
+And thus they whisper'd to his Royal Ears:
+
+  Sir, it is time you now take up the Sword,
+And let your Subjects know you are their Lord.
+Goodness by Rebels won't be understood,
+And you are much too wonderful and good.
+The _Jews_, a moody, murmuring, stubborn Race,
+Grow worse by Favours, and rebel with Grace.
+Pamper'd they are, grown rich and fat with ease,
+Whom no good Monarch long could ever please.
+Freedom and Liberty pretend to want;
+That's still the cry, where they're on Mischief bent.
+Freedom is their Disease; and had they less,
+They would not be so ready to transgress.
+Give them but Liberty, let them alone,
+They shall not onely you, but God dethrone.
+Remember, Sir, how your good Father fell;
+It was his goodness made them first rebel.
+And now the very self-same tract they tread,
+To reach your Crown, and then take off your head.
+A senseless Plot they stumbl'd on, or made,
+To make you of th'old _Canaanites_ afraid.
+Still when they mean the Nation to enthral,
+With heavie Clamour they cry out on _Baal_.
+But these hot Zealots who _Baal_'s Idols curse,
+Bow to their own more ugly far and worse.
+_Baal_ would but rob some Jewels from your Crown,
+But these would Monarchy itself pull down:
+Both Church and State they'l not reform by Halves,
+Pull down the Temple, and set up their Calves.
+You, and your Priests, they would turn out to Graze,
+Nor would they let you smell a Sacrifize,
+Those pious Offerings which Priests lasie made,
+To Rebels, should, instead of God be paid.
+How to the Prey these factious _Jews_ do run!
+From you by art they have debauch'd your Son;
+That little subtle Instrument of Hell,
+Worse than to _David_ was _Achitophel_,
+The young Man tutors, sends him through the Land,
+That he the peoples minds may understand;
+That he, with winning Charms, might court the _Jew_,
+And draw your fickle Subjects hearts from you.
+Alas! already they of you Complain.
+And are grown sick of your too peaceful Reign,
+Their Lusts grown high, they are debauch'd with Grace,
+And like unfrozen Snakes fly in your Face.
+These men who now pretend to give you Law,
+Stood of the Tyrant _Zabed_'s power in awe;
+He made them crouch who scorn'd a Prince's sway,
+And forc'd them, like dull slaves, his power obey.
+Of _Israel_, and of _Juda_'s Tribe you spring,
+A Lion is the Ensign of a King,
+Rouse up your self, in mildness sleep no more,
+And make them tremble at your princely roar:
+Appear like _Jove_ with Thunder in your hand,
+And let the Slaves your power understand;
+Strike but the sinning Princes Down to Hell,
+The rest will worship you, and ne'r rebel.
+
+  Thus these rash Men with their bad Counsels strove,
+To turn to hate good _Amazia_'s Love.
+A Prince to Mercy naturally inclin'd,         }
+Not apt to fear, nor of a Jealous Mind,       }
+Thought no Man e'r against his Life design'd, }
+But these with Art did dangers represent,
+And Plots they fram'd the People never meant.
+Each Mole hill they a Mountain did create,
+And sought to fright him with his Fathers Fate.
+_Hushai_ at last was to a Prison sent,
+As a false Traitor to the Government.
+Loud murmurs then possest the troubled _Jews_,
+Who were surprised at the fatal News;
+His Wisdom they believed their chief support,
+Against the evil Instruments at Court;
+Nor, by his Actions, did they ever find,
+He bore a Trait'rous, or a factious Mind:
+And now they thought themselves expos'd to all
+The Arts, and Plots of the hid friends to _Baal_.
+Troubled, and discontented, at the last,
+Their Eyes upon the noble Prince they cast.
+Who fearing lest their discontent and rage,
+Should them, to some rebellious Crime ingage,
+Both for his Fathers, and his Countries sake,
+The murmuring People sought more calm to make.
+With a sweet Air, and with a graceful look,
+He did command their silence, e'er he spoke.
+Then thus he said, and though his words were few,
+They fell like Manna, or the Hony Dew;
+
+  My Country-men, Let not your discontent
+Draw you to actions you will soon repent,
+What e'er your fears and jealousies may be,
+Let them not break the bonds of Loyalty.
+I dare, and you may too, my Father trust,
+For he's so merciful, so good, so just,
+That he of no mans Life will make a Prey,
+Or take it in an Arbitrary way,
+To Heav'n, and to the King submit your cause,
+Who never will infringe your ancient Laws;
+But if he should an evil Action do,
+To run to Arms, 'tis no pretence for you.
+The King is Judge of what is just and fit,
+And if he judge amiss you must submit,
+Tho griev'd you must your constant duty pay,
+And your Redress seek in a lawful way.
+_Hushai_ tho he of Treason be accus'd,
+Such loyal precepts in my soul infus'd,
+That I the hazard of my life will run,
+Rather than prove my self a Rebel Son.
+Our Foes, have sought to' infect my Father's mind,
+To think, you to Rebellion are inclin'd:
+To stir you to Rebellion is their aim,
+And they are mad, to see you justly tame.
+Upon your Heads, they fain would lay their sin,
+'Tis War they seek, but would have you begin:
+Pretence they want, who for the King do seem,
+To bring in, and set up _Eliakim_.
+I am afraid the _Baalites_ cursed Plot,
+By many laught at, and by most forgot,
+Is carried on still, in their hidden Mine,
+I fear, but dare not, the event, divine.
+May Heav'n defend my Father's Life, and late,
+Full ripe with Age, in peace, may he'yield to Fate.
+I know, my Friends, for Him's your chiefest Care,
+For him, as much as for your selves, you fear,
+Upon his Life our happiness depends,
+With it the peace of all _Judea_ ends,
+Be vigilant, your foes Designs prevent,
+Let not loud murmures shew your discontent:
+Your Loyal Duty to your Soveraign pay,
+Your Griefs present him in a Lawful way:
+Be not too anxious for our common Friend,
+God, and his Innocence will him defend:
+Sit down in quiet, murmure not, but pray,
+Submit to Heaven, your King, and Laws obey.
+Youth, Beauty, and the Grace wherewith he spoke,
+The Eyes, Ears, Hearts, of all the people took,
+Their murmures then to joyful shouts were turn'd,
+And they rejoyc'd, who lately murmuring mourn'd:
+With Loyalty he did their Breasts inflame,
+And they with shouts blest _Azaria_'s name.
+The joyful Cry th'row all the City flew,
+God save the King, and _Azaria_ too.
+To him the Princes, his best Friends resort,
+Resolv'd as Suppliants, to repair to Court;
+In humble wise, to shew the King their Grief,
+And on their bended Knees to seek Relief.
+They 'approach'd the Throne, to it their homage paid,
+Then to the King, the Loyal _Nashon_ said.
+Great Sir, whom all good Subjects truly Love,
+Tho all things that you do they can't approve,
+We, whom the Throne has with high Honours blest,
+Present you here the prayers of the rest;
+Our bended Knees, as low as Earth we bow,
+And humbly prostrate supplicate you now:
+The blessing of your Love to us restore,
+And raise us to your Favour, Sir, once more.
+Where is the Joy, the Peace, and Quiet flown,
+All had, when first you did ascend the Throne;
+Now murmuring discontents assault our Ears,
+And loud Complaints of jealousies, and fears:
+Bad instruments help to blow up this Fire,
+And with ill minds, their own worse Arts admire,
+Whilst, by their means, you think your Friends your Foes,
+For your best friends, your Enemies suppose;
+Suspect your Loyal Subjects, and believe
+The _Sanhedrim_ would you of Rights bereive.
+Your people, who do love your gentle Sway,
+And willingly their God, and you obey,
+Who for Religion ever zealous were,
+For that, for you, and for themselves do fear.
+Clear as the Sun, by sad effects they find,
+A _Baalite_ to succeed you is design'd:
+Sir, they would not dispute with you, his right,
+But they can n're indure a _Baalite_:
+Tho whilst you live, they are secure and blest,
+Yet are they with a thousand fears opprest,
+Think your Life still in danger of the Plot,
+Which now is laugh'd at, and almost forgot.
+They see the _Baalites_ Hellish Plot run down,
+And on the _Pharisees_ a false one thrown;
+Your zealous faithful _Jews_ all Rebels made,
+Their ruine hatch'd, you, and themselves betray'd.
+Oh! Sir, before things to extreams do run,
+Remember, at the least, you have a Son,
+Let the _Sanhedrim_ with your wisdom joyn,
+To keep unbroken still the Royal line;
+And to secure our fears, that after you,
+None shall succeed but a believing _Jew_.
+Sir, this is all your Loyal Subjects Crave,
+On you, as on a God, they cry to save.
+Kings are like Gods on Earth, when they redress,
+Their peoples Griefs, and save them in distress.
+With loads of careful thoughts, the King opprest,
+And long revolving in his Royal Breast,
+Th' event of Things-----at last he silence broke,
+And, with an awful Majesty, he spoke.
+I've long in Peace _Judeas_ Scepter swaid,
+None can Complain, I Justice have delay'd:
+My Clemency, and Mercy has been shown,
+Blood, and Revenge did ne'r pollute my Throne;
+I and my People happy, kindly strove,
+Which should exceed, my Mercy or their Love:
+Who, till of late, more ready were to give
+Supplies to me, than I was to receive.
+Oh! happy days, and oh! unhappy change;
+That makes my _Sanhedrims_, and my people strange,
+And now, when I am in the Throne grown old,
+With grief I see my Subjects Love prove cold.
+They fear not my known Mercy to offend,
+And with my awful Justice dare contend;
+But yet their Crimes my mercy shan't asswage,
+I'm ready to forgive th' offending Age,
+And though they should my Kingly power slight,
+I'le still keep for them my forgiving right.
+I feel a tenderness within me spring,
+I am my Peoples Father, and their King,
+And tho I think, they may have done me wrong.
+I can't remember their offences long.
+Nature is mov'd, and sues for a Reprieve,
+They are my Children, and I must forgive.
+My many jealous fears I shan't repeat,
+My Heart with a strong pulse of Love doth beat;
+Nature I feel has made a sudden start,
+And a fresh source springs from the Father's heart.
+A stubborn Bow, drawn by the force of men,
+The force remov'd, flies swifty back agen.
+'Tis hard a Fathers nature to o'ercome,
+How easily does she her force assume!
+Sh' has o'er my Soul an easie Conquest won,
+And I remember now I have a Son,
+Whose Youth had long been my paternal Care,
+Rais'd to the height his noble frame could bear,
+And Heav'n has seem'd to give his Soul a turn,
+As if ordain'd by Fate for Empire born.
+By our known Laws I have the Scepter sway'd,
+By them I govern'd, them my Rule I made.
+To them I sought to frame my soveraign Will,
+By them my Subjects I will govern still:
+They, not the People, shall proclaim my Heir, }
+Yet I will hearken to my Subjects Prayer,     }
+And of a _Baalite_ will remove their fear.    }
+From hence I'le banish every Priest of _Baal_,
+And the wise _Sanhedrim_ together call:
+That Body with the Kingly Head shall join,
+Their Counsel and their Wisdom mix with mine,
+All former strife betwixt us be forgot,
+And in Oblivion buried every Plot.
+We'l try to live in Love and Peace again,
+As when I first began my happy Reign.
+Before our Trait'rous Foes with secret toil
+Did fair _Judea_'s blessed Peace embroil.
+May all my latter days excel my first,
+And he who then disturbs our Peace be curst.
+
+  He said: Th' Almighty heard, and from on high
+Spoke his Consent, in Thunder through the Skie:
+The Augurie was noted by the Croud,
+Who joyful shouts return'd almost as loud:
+Then _Amazia_ was once more restor'd,
+He lov'd his People, they obey'd their Lord.
+
+_FINIS._
+
+
+[Errata:
+
+  an Author, whose Wit has deservedly / gained the Bays;
+    _"Bays" unclear_
+  the Horny or Ivory Port
+    _so in original: "Part"?_
+
+  'Twas fear'd they'd fall at last from Words to Blows.
+    _invisible apostrophe_
+  He fears your Wisdom, may his Hindrance prove,
+    _text reads "Hndrance"_
+  Religion to o'rethrow and Government.
+    _text reads "Governmenr"_
+  And _Azaria_, tho they us'd his name,
+    _text reads "tehy"_
+  From you by art they have debauch'd your Son;
+    _text reads "debauch,d"_
+  Full ripe with Age, in peace, may he'yield to Fate.
+    _so in original: "he yield" or (metrical) "h'yield"?_
+  The force remov'd, flies swifty back agen.
+    _see Editor's Introduction, References, for "swifty"_ ]
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's Anti-Achitophel (1682), by Elkanah Settle et al.
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