John Milton

When the scourge
Inexorable, and the torturing hour
Calls us to penance.

When the scourge
Inexorable, and the torturing hour
Calls us to penance.

Who can enjoy alone?
Or all enjoying what contentment find?

Who can enjoy alone?
Or all enjoying what contentment find?

Who would not, finding way, break loose from hell,
. . . .
And boldly venture to read more

Who would not, finding way, break loose from hell,
. . . .
And boldly venture to whatever place
Farthest from pain?

Beholding the bright countenance of truth in the quiet and still
air of delightful studies.

Beholding the bright countenance of truth in the quiet and still
air of delightful studies.

The Angel ended, and in Adam's ear
So charming left his voice, that he awhile
Thought him read more

The Angel ended, and in Adam's ear
So charming left his voice, that he awhile
Thought him still speaking, still stood fix'd to hear.