Iv

Nor will the God of peace and love Such martial service disapprove. He guides the Pestilence--the cloud Of locusts travels on his breath; The region that in hope was ploughed His drought consumes, his mildew taints with death; He springs the hushed Volcano's mine, He puts the Earthquake on her still design,[BG] Darkens the sun, hath bade the forest sink, And, drinking towns and cities, still can drink Cities and towns--'tis Thou--the work is Thine!-- The fierce Tornado sleeps within thy courts-- He hears the word--he flies-- And navies perish in their ports; For Thou art angry with thine enemies! For these, and mourning for our errors, And sins, that point their terrors, We bow our heads before Thee, and we laud And magnify thy name, Almighty God! But Man is thy most awful instrument, In working out a pure intent; Thou cloth'st the wicked in their dazzling mail, And for thy righteous purpose they prevail; Thine arm from peril guards the coasts Of them who in thy laws delight: Thy presence turns the scale of doubtful fight, Tremendous God of battles, Lord of Hosts![BH]