Apollion. Lucifer. Rafael

Apollion:

Lord Stadtholder, awake! not now the time For loitering. God's Marshal Michael nears, With all his stars and legions, and defies Thee in the open field. The time demands That thou array for battle. Come, advance! Advance with us: we see the battle won.

Lucifer:

Won? Ah! that is too soon: 'tis not commenced. The heavy bolt of war should not be weighed Too lightly.

Apollion:

I saw even in Michael's face The hue of fright, while all his legions pale Looked backwards. Ah! we long. O doubt it not, To humble and destroy them. Lo! here come The various chieftains with our streaming standard.

Lucifer:

Each in his rank! Let each his banner ward. Now let the trump and bugle boldly blow.

Apollion:

We wait upon thy word.

Lucifer:

Then follow on, As I this signal give.

Rafael:

Alas! but now He stood in doubt suspended: now, despair Incites him on. In what calamities, Alas! shall soon the proud Archangel plunge His followers? Now may he nevermore In joy appear on high unless God shall In His compassion this prevent. Oh! come, Ye Heavenly choristers, and breathe your prayers. It may be that your supplications, rising, May yet avert this dire, impending blow: Oft prayer can break a heart of adamant.