State Tracts Containing Many Necessary Observations and Reflections on the State of our Affairs at Home and Abroad; With some Secret Memoirs. By the Author of the Examiner [i.e. William Oldisworth] |
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THE Royal PROPHETESS.
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 | State Tracts |  |
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THE Royal PROPHETESS.
AN Heroick POEM.
When Pious Joshua Israel's People led
After the Mighty Prophet had 'em fed
With Food from Heaven for their daily Bread.
Jacob's ungrateful Race forgot the God
That had preserv'd them by his Sacred Rod;
Perverse and Stubborn as their Fathers were,
They scorn'd the tenders of his bounteous Care,
And ev'n 'gainst high Heav'n it self made War.
Tho' when the great Dictator of their Laws
Was snatch'd away, Joshua espous'd their Cause.
Joshua, so much for Arms and Arts renown'd,
And who the hopes of Israel's People Crown'd.
When such a Guide did for their Tribes appear
Old Judah's Lyon rose, and Israel banish'd fear,
Whilst from his Sphere fled back the glaring Sun,
Amaz'd, asham'd, to see himself out-run,
Stock-still he gaz'd, with Wonder fill'd, and fear,
Nor durst he to his Journey's end draw near,
But as a vain Spectator of the Day,
Stood loit'ring of his precious Hours away.
After the Mighty Prophet had 'em fed
With Food from Heaven for their daily Bread.
Jacob's ungrateful Race forgot the God
That had preserv'd them by his Sacred Rod;
Perverse and Stubborn as their Fathers were,
They scorn'd the tenders of his bounteous Care,
And ev'n 'gainst high Heav'n it self made War.
Tho' when the great Dictator of their Laws
Was snatch'd away, Joshua espous'd their Cause.
Joshua, so much for Arms and Arts renown'd,
And who the hopes of Israel's People Crown'd.
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Old Judah's Lyon rose, and Israel banish'd fear,
Whilst from his Sphere fled back the glaring Sun,
Amaz'd, asham'd, to see himself out-run,
Stock-still he gaz'd, with Wonder fill'd, and fear,
Nor durst he to his Journey's end draw near,
But as a vain Spectator of the Day,
Stood loit'ring of his precious Hours away.
Mean time the Hero, with a matchless Grace
Met nought but Victory in ev'ry Place,
Where grizly Death was staring in his Face.
Met nought but Victory in ev'ry Place,
Where grizly Death was staring in his Face.
The Haughty Amorites press'd his Troops in vain
Till Gibeons Fields were cover'd with the Slain;
The bashful trembling Moon, all pale and wan
Affrighted stood to view the God-like Man.
While thro' the rapid Streams of Jordan, he
Made his bold Passage like a Deity.
No Terrors did his fiery Passion cool,
His Armour was the Courage of his Soul.
Nor did the God, for whom his Joshua fought,
Permit his Hero to be long forgot,
For 'midst th'eternal Monuments of Fame
None will compare to Joshua's Deathless Name.
Till Gibeons Fields were cover'd with the Slain;
The bashful trembling Moon, all pale and wan
Affrighted stood to view the God-like Man.
While thro' the rapid Streams of Jordan, he
Made his bold Passage like a Deity.
No Terrors did his fiery Passion cool,
His Armour was the Courage of his Soul.
Nor did the God, for whom his Joshua fought,
Permit his Hero to be long forgot,
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None will compare to Joshua's Deathless Name.
He liv'd thro' Israel's Tents for Arms renown'd,
And dy'd with never-fading Lawrels Crown'd.
And dy'd with never-fading Lawrels Crown'd.
While Jacob's Sons in Sorrow bath'd their Eyes,
And Clouds with Mourning Sables deck'd the Skies,
Deb'rab the Royal Prophetess did rise.
Deb'rab, whose Sacred Name tunes every Lyre,
And does my Muse with Pious Thoughts inspire:
From Ephram's Tribe her sacred Breath she drew,
And Israel well her great Fore-Fathers knew.
Divinely fair her sparkling Beauty shin'd,
As Jaspers with the Chrystal more refin'd;
Her flowing Hair like the first dawn of Light,
With Gold enamel'd show'd the Silver-white;
Upon her Brow a Thousand Graces met,
Where they in Thrones of spotless Ivory sate;
Her Cheeks with native Blushes were o'er-spread,
Not yielding to the fair Carnation Red;
Her Eyes would swell and burst, and melt in Showers,
As Pearly Dews sit on the choicest Flow'rs:
To Crown her Charms the Sun lay hid for shame,
And own'd her Eyes by far the brighter flame;
Like Rocks of Marble on a Silver Mold,
Her Snowy Breasts their Beauties do unfold,
So every Heart with pleasure she commands,
No Heart, no Soul, her Lordly Pow'r withstands.
And Clouds with Mourning Sables deck'd the Skies,
Deb'rab the Royal Prophetess did rise.
Deb'rab, whose Sacred Name tunes every Lyre,
And does my Muse with Pious Thoughts inspire:
From Ephram's Tribe her sacred Breath she drew,
And Israel well her great Fore-Fathers knew.
Divinely fair her sparkling Beauty shin'd,
As Jaspers with the Chrystal more refin'd;
Her flowing Hair like the first dawn of Light,
With Gold enamel'd show'd the Silver-white;
Upon her Brow a Thousand Graces met,
Where they in Thrones of spotless Ivory sate;
Her Cheeks with native Blushes were o'er-spread,
Not yielding to the fair Carnation Red;
Her Eyes would swell and burst, and melt in Showers,
As Pearly Dews sit on the choicest Flow'rs:
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And own'd her Eyes by far the brighter flame;
Like Rocks of Marble on a Silver Mold,
Her Snowy Breasts their Beauties do unfold,
So every Heart with pleasure she commands,
No Heart, no Soul, her Lordly Pow'r withstands.
Of Lapidoth she was the virtuous Wife,
And liv'd a very Pattern all her Life
Free from the Jars of Matrimonial strife.
Heav'n such a Bridegroom never yet describ'd,
Nor ever Earth so Good, so Chaste a Bride.
And liv'd a very Pattern all her Life
Free from the Jars of Matrimonial strife.
Heav'n such a Bridegroom never yet describ'd,
Nor ever Earth so Good, so Chaste a Bride.
Under the spreading Palm-Trees She abode,
Securely tended by her Guardian God,
On Ephraim's Mount, with awful Pow'r She sate
To govern Israel, and prescribe their Fate.
Securely tended by her Guardian God,
On Ephraim's Mount, with awful Pow'r She sate
To govern Israel, and prescribe their Fate.
There stands a lofty Pile, which looking high,
Rears up its stately Head to meet the Sky,
Deep founded on a Rock it firmly stood,
Fenc'd from th'Insults of Jordan's Swelling Flood.
The Beauteous Frame with curious Art was wrought,
With Wood from Ophir, and from Chittim brought,
With tallest Cedars that the Forrests shade,
Of Fir, the Beams and Rafters all were made,
The Roof with Gold of Parvaim overlaid:
Such wond'rous Architrave the Structure show'd,
As if design'd by some all Artful God;
Huge Mountain Pines, th'Imperial load sustain'd,
Which from the solid Trunks alone were fram'd,
On Pedestals of Molten Brass they stood,
And Leaves of purest Gold o're-laid the Wood;
Their Chapiters were Carv'd with nicest Art,
And in their form each Workman play'd his Part.
Rears up its stately Head to meet the Sky,
Deep founded on a Rock it firmly stood,
Fenc'd from th'Insults of Jordan's Swelling Flood.
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With Wood from Ophir, and from Chittim brought,
With tallest Cedars that the Forrests shade,
Of Fir, the Beams and Rafters all were made,
The Roof with Gold of Parvaim overlaid:
Such wond'rous Architrave the Structure show'd,
As if design'd by some all Artful God;
Huge Mountain Pines, th'Imperial load sustain'd,
Which from the solid Trunks alone were fram'd,
On Pedestals of Molten Brass they stood,
And Leaves of purest Gold o're-laid the Wood;
Their Chapiters were Carv'd with nicest Art,
And in their form each Workman play'd his Part.
One Tow'ring Cedar, of Gigantick size,
That did on Lebanon's fair Forrest rise,
Did by its Native Strength alone support
Th'ascending Ladder of this spacious Court;
A Hundred Paces, to the Floor you mount,
And Twice Two Hundred afterwards might count.
Of purest Ebony, the Steps were made,
With Chittim Iv'ry, curiously Inlaid;
No Walls were there, but of the Onyx Stone,
Nor Light; but what thro' clearest Chrystal shone;
The Ceiling, of stupendious height did seem,
Shewing no Crack, or Flaw, or Artless Beam,
But in the Noblest Paintings, there Divine
Did all the Glorious Acts of Israel shine.
There, Moses by the Fiery Pillar stood,
And Pharoah's Chariots rowling in the Flood;
There, stood the Waves, in heaps on either side,
And Moses leading Israel as their Guide;
There, were in Colours, Artfully exprest
All Egypt's Plagues, in lively Horror drest,
And living Streams flow'd from the Painters Rock,
Just as they look'd when the great Prophet struck;
Nor were the wond'rous Deeds of Joshua forgot,
And all the mighty Battels which he fought.
That did on Lebanon's fair Forrest rise,
Did by its Native Strength alone support
Th'ascending Ladder of this spacious Court;
A Hundred Paces, to the Floor you mount,
And Twice Two Hundred afterwards might count.
Of purest Ebony, the Steps were made,
With Chittim Iv'ry, curiously Inlaid;
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Nor Light; but what thro' clearest Chrystal shone;
The Ceiling, of stupendious height did seem,
Shewing no Crack, or Flaw, or Artless Beam,
But in the Noblest Paintings, there Divine
Did all the Glorious Acts of Israel shine.
There, Moses by the Fiery Pillar stood,
And Pharoah's Chariots rowling in the Flood;
There, stood the Waves, in heaps on either side,
And Moses leading Israel as their Guide;
There, were in Colours, Artfully exprest
All Egypt's Plagues, in lively Horror drest,
And living Streams flow'd from the Painters Rock,
Just as they look'd when the great Prophet struck;
Nor were the wond'rous Deeds of Joshua forgot,
And all the mighty Battels which he fought.
A Lordly Dome rais'd up its Antique Head,
Which o're the Centre of the Building spread,
Two Hundred Cubits 'bove the Roof did rise,
And the same Number spann'd the bulky size.
With pond'rous Gold the Pile was cover'd o'er,
And Orient Gems adorn'd the inner Floor.
There Varrio's Skill in shining Colours lives,
And there immortal Joshua survives.
There you may see, the Radient Beamy Sun
By Man's soft Pencil, Artfully out-done,
When he stood still upon the Burning Zone.
Which o're the Centre of the Building spread,
Two Hundred Cubits 'bove the Roof did rise,
And the same Number spann'd the bulky size.
With pond'rous Gold the Pile was cover'd o'er,
And Orient Gems adorn'd the inner Floor.
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And there immortal Joshua survives.
There you may see, the Radient Beamy Sun
By Man's soft Pencil, Artfully out-done,
When he stood still upon the Burning Zone.
There, see, how the great Painter so can dress
Art, as t'exceed ev'n Nature in Distress;
So bold he Paints the fall of Jericho,
That She scarce felt such mighty Pangs of Woe,
When Her surrounding Walls were tumbling down,
And Joshua's Host Triumphing in the Town;
When Childless Matrons, with unpitied Eyes
Wept, at the Universal Sacrifice.
There, Colours do by bold Expressions tell
How the Great Heroe stood when Bashan fell,
How Jordan's Streams, cou'd never stem the Tide
Of Joshua's Fire; He thro' the Flood wou'd Ride,
And force the Waves stand still on either side.
Art, as t'exceed ev'n Nature in Distress;
So bold he Paints the fall of Jericho,
That She scarce felt such mighty Pangs of Woe,
When Her surrounding Walls were tumbling down,
And Joshua's Host Triumphing in the Town;
When Childless Matrons, with unpitied Eyes
Wept, at the Universal Sacrifice.
There, Colours do by bold Expressions tell
How the Great Heroe stood when Bashan fell,
How Jordan's Streams, cou'd never stem the Tide
Of Joshua's Fire; He thro' the Flood wou'd Ride,
And force the Waves stand still on either side.
Beneath the Glories of this Painted Sky,
Statues of lasting Brass, stood mounting high,
At whose proud Feet numberless Trophies lye.
There, haughty Nimrod, like a Tyrant stood,
And those Rebellious Sons, who since the Flood
Wag'd War with Heav'n, and durst confront their God
In daring Forms, that did their boldness crown,
Who Babel rais'd, and with it tumbled down.
Their Images appear'd of Gyant size,
Grim were their looks, and Gorgon like their Eyes:
No smiling aspects did the Heroe's grace,
But Horror star'd in ev'ry Grizly Face,
Naked and bare, their Brawny Limbs descry'd
Th'insulting Men, that Heav'n and Earth defy'd.
Statues of lasting Brass, stood mounting high,
At whose proud Feet numberless Trophies lye.
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And those Rebellious Sons, who since the Flood
Wag'd War with Heav'n, and durst confront their God
In daring Forms, that did their boldness crown,
Who Babel rais'd, and with it tumbled down.
Their Images appear'd of Gyant size,
Grim were their looks, and Gorgon like their Eyes:
No smiling aspects did the Heroe's grace,
But Horror star'd in ev'ry Grizly Face,
Naked and bare, their Brawny Limbs descry'd
Th'insulting Men, that Heav'n and Earth defy'd.
Beneath these huge Colossus's, you might see
Twelve spacious Arches, fram'd of Ebony;
With lust'rous Pearl, each Bow was spangled o'er,
And Jasper Stones pav'd all the low'most Floor,
The choicest Onyx, form'd the Pillars thro',
And the Pilasters were of Saphire blue.
Twelve spacious Arches, fram'd of Ebony;
With lust'rous Pearl, each Bow was spangled o'er,
And Jasper Stones pav'd all the low'most Floor,
The choicest Onyx, form'd the Pillars thro',
And the Pilasters were of Saphire blue.
Next, hence adjoyning lies a Gallery,
With Marble polish'd like a Chrystal Sea.
With Marble polish'd like a Chrystal Sea.
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Of burnish'd Gold, which with like splendor shone,
As does the Chariot of the Blazing Sun:
Fix'd o're't, was set a high Imperial Crown,
Which nought but Tyranny cou'd tumble down:
There hung on high a Canopy of State,
Where Deb'rah like, a powerful Monarch sate.
Close by this Palace, flows fair Jordan's Streams,
Where spreading Palm Trees shade the Sun's fierce Beams,
Where Beauteous Sea-Nymphs, on the Waters sport,
And bulky Triton's grace the splendid Court.
Here, Ships from Tarshish safe at Anchor ride,
Here, Men of War bear out the foaming Tyde,
While Wanton Skiffs at pleasure o'er it glide.
Here, Season'd Ashes make the Sailors Oars,
And Senir Oaks, the Merchants hoard in Stores;
Work-men from Gebal hew the Timber down,
And Zidon's Carpenters the Labour Crown.
Fam'd Arvad's Pilots steer Her Ships to Land,
When in the midst of them tall Cedars stand;
Up Jordan's swelling Flood, swift sailing come
Merchants from Lud and Persia, laden home;
Coral and Agat, they with Emralds buy,
And Dedan's Merchants Trade in Ivory,
For finest Wooll, and Balm of Gilead they
Bring Gold and Precious Stones from Raamah;
Arabian Spices are exchang'd for Corn,
And for choice Ebony, they barter Horn;
With Tin and Lead, Shebah and Ashur Trade,
And with fine Silver home their Shipping lade;
For Honey, Wax and Wheat, of Minniths Soil
They bring back Olives, Cassia, Wine and Oyl.
Thus Jordan's flowing Streams more fruitful are,
Than either East or Western Oceans far,
Plenteous in all the Riches of the West,
And stor'd with fine Apparel from the East;
In Rich Embroid'ry they from Haram shine,
And Eden's softer Linnen makes 'em fine.
Where spreading Palm Trees shade the Sun's fierce Beams,
Where Beauteous Sea-Nymphs, on the Waters sport,
And bulky Triton's grace the splendid Court.
Here, Ships from Tarshish safe at Anchor ride,
Here, Men of War bear out the foaming Tyde,
While Wanton Skiffs at pleasure o'er it glide.
Here, Season'd Ashes make the Sailors Oars,
And Senir Oaks, the Merchants hoard in Stores;
Work-men from Gebal hew the Timber down,
And Zidon's Carpenters the Labour Crown.
Fam'd Arvad's Pilots steer Her Ships to Land,
When in the midst of them tall Cedars stand;
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Merchants from Lud and Persia, laden home;
Coral and Agat, they with Emralds buy,
And Dedan's Merchants Trade in Ivory,
For finest Wooll, and Balm of Gilead they
Bring Gold and Precious Stones from Raamah;
Arabian Spices are exchang'd for Corn,
And for choice Ebony, they barter Horn;
With Tin and Lead, Shebah and Ashur Trade,
And with fine Silver home their Shipping lade;
For Honey, Wax and Wheat, of Minniths Soil
They bring back Olives, Cassia, Wine and Oyl.
Thus Jordan's flowing Streams more fruitful are,
Than either East or Western Oceans far,
Plenteous in all the Riches of the West,
And stor'd with fine Apparel from the East;
In Rich Embroid'ry they from Haram shine,
And Eden's softer Linnen makes 'em fine.
Near hence, a pleasing Prospect to the Eyes,
The Beauteous Garden of the Palm-Trees lies,
Where Jordan's Streams in various windings play,
And thro' thick glades cut out their shady way;
Thence their fresh Rills delight the sporting Fawns,
When they glide gently down the verdant Lawns,
When o'er the Pebles, softly they complain
Their broken Numbers touch the Love-sick Swain:
The Muses, all these Silver Brooks Flock round,
And Nymphs and Fawns, with Water Lillies crown'd;
A Thousand Loves express in Am'rous strains,
A Thousand Joys disperse among the Plains.
The Beauteous Garden of the Palm-Trees lies,
Where Jordan's Streams in various windings play,
And thro' thick glades cut out their shady way;
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When they glide gently down the verdant Lawns,
When o'er the Pebles, softly they complain
Their broken Numbers touch the Love-sick Swain:
The Muses, all these Silver Brooks Flock round,
And Nymphs and Fawns, with Water Lillies crown'd;
A Thousand Loves express in Am'rous strains,
A Thousand Joys disperse among the Plains.
Here, well secur'd from Envy, Flatt'ry, Hate
And Discontent, that oft on Great Men wait,
In Innocence Men prove their Happy State,
And Challenge all the Tyrannies of Fate;
And Discontent, that oft on Great Men wait,
In Innocence Men prove their Happy State,
And Challenge all the Tyrannies of Fate;
Here, lavish Nature Prodigal of Bliss,
Shows us, what pleasure in Her Bosom lies,
What to the Earth Her kindly Offspring bring,
And how Her Beauteous Blossoms freshly spring;
How Fountains rise, from the Seas swelling Tyde,
And Flow'rs are dress'd with such delightful Pride.
Shows us, what pleasure in Her Bosom lies,
What to the Earth Her kindly Offspring bring,
And how Her Beauteous Blossoms freshly spring;
How Fountains rise, from the Seas swelling Tyde,
And Flow'rs are dress'd with such delightful Pride.
Here, Art it self so lively does appear,
As if this place by Her created were,
And does so near to Natures Thoughts aspire,
She gilds the kindly Plants with new attire,
Where Nature has too great a Niggard been,
In Homely Russet, or in Native Green;
Beams of more lively and delightful show,
Do from their Beds in glorious Colours grow:
So does She wed the Tulip to the Sun,
While various Mixtures thro' each other run.
The verdant Holly ev'ry circling Year,
A diff'rent Livery She gives to wear,
So lustrous, Art can make ev'n Nature shine,
From Mountain slips, she dwarfs the lofty Pine;
She joyns the Hawthorn to Alcinous Pear,
While Wilding-Stocks Pomona's Apples bear.
As if this place by Her created were,
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She gilds the kindly Plants with new attire,
Where Nature has too great a Niggard been,
In Homely Russet, or in Native Green;
Beams of more lively and delightful show,
Do from their Beds in glorious Colours grow:
So does She wed the Tulip to the Sun,
While various Mixtures thro' each other run.
The verdant Holly ev'ry circling Year,
A diff'rent Livery She gives to wear,
So lustrous, Art can make ev'n Nature shine,
From Mountain slips, she dwarfs the lofty Pine;
She joyns the Hawthorn to Alcinous Pear,
While Wilding-Stocks Pomona's Apples bear.
Here, Triumphs Art, and here Heav'ns smiling brow,
Does all the sweets of Infant Nature show;
The Joyous Birds in little Songs conspire,
To raise delight and melt us to desire.
Does all the sweets of Infant Nature show;
The Joyous Birds in little Songs conspire,
To raise delight and melt us to desire.
Then tell me Jordan, why thy crooked Tyde,
Does thro' this spacious Artful Canal glide?
Why, here your healing Fountains dance and play,
Then hide their curled heads, and steal away?
Tell me ye Streams, why here your Current flows?
Why leave the Banks, that did you once enclose?
Say lovely Springs, what is it you have got
By this exchange, or what is't you have not?
Here ev'ry Day from an adjacent Bow'r.
The Beauties of the East each Morning Flow'r:
The early Sun, with Beams comes dancing out,
And sporting Nereids wanton here about;
Here Swallows from their Winter Beds arise,
And downy Sleep is banish'd from their Eyes.
Does thro' this spacious Artful Canal glide?
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Then hide their curled heads, and steal away?
Tell me ye Streams, why here your Current flows?
Why leave the Banks, that did you once enclose?
Say lovely Springs, what is it you have got
By this exchange, or what is't you have not?
Here ev'ry Day from an adjacent Bow'r.
The Beauties of the East each Morning Flow'r:
The early Sun, with Beams comes dancing out,
And sporting Nereids wanton here about;
Here Swallows from their Winter Beds arise,
And downy Sleep is banish'd from their Eyes.
All perfum'd Odours that delight the Sence,
Are here pour'd out in lavish Affluence;
Not Ida's Fields or Tempe's flow'ry plain,
On which the streaming Floods of Heaven rain,
Or Hybla's Thyme, but must compare with thee in vain.
To all these Nature did some Sweets bestow,
But in this Garden every Sweet does grow.
With various mixtures ev'ry Bank she dy'd,
And damask'd all the Fields with od'rous Pride.
Here on high Trillage made of golden Wire
Sweet Limes or shady Elms are taught t'aspire,
While for her Guard their boughy Arms they bear,
And ev'ry Tree erects its Leafy Spear.
The wanton Flood o'er spacious Cascades rowls,
And laves its liquid Waves in Silver Bowls,
Upon whose sides fresh fragrant Roses stray,
O'er which the watry Streams delight to play.
Are here pour'd out in lavish Affluence;
Not Ida's Fields or Tempe's flow'ry plain,
On which the streaming Floods of Heaven rain,
Or Hybla's Thyme, but must compare with thee in vain.
To all these Nature did some Sweets bestow,
But in this Garden every Sweet does grow.
With various mixtures ev'ry Bank she dy'd,
And damask'd all the Fields with od'rous Pride.
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Sweet Limes or shady Elms are taught t'aspire,
While for her Guard their boughy Arms they bear,
And ev'ry Tree erects its Leafy Spear.
The wanton Flood o'er spacious Cascades rowls,
And laves its liquid Waves in Silver Bowls,
Upon whose sides fresh fragrant Roses stray,
O'er which the watry Streams delight to play.
Here Circe's sleeping Charms so fam'd of old
Are quite out-done by the Springs Icy cold.
Here Evening Breezes freshly fan the Air,
Quench the hot Flame, and cool the rage of Care;
Are quite out-done by the Springs Icy cold.
Here Evening Breezes freshly fan the Air,
Quench the hot Flame, and cool the rage of Care;
But now the pensive Queen by Heav'n inspir'd,
And with the Publick Good divinely fir'd,
Fix'd in her Mind her People's Cares, revolv'd,
At last her teeming Thoughts she thus resolv'd.
And with the Publick Good divinely fir'd,
Fix'd in her Mind her People's Cares, revolv'd,
At last her teeming Thoughts she thus resolv'd.
Th'insulting Amorites have long perplex'd
This Promis'd Land, and long have Israel vex'd.
Jabin, their haughty Monarch every where
Makes Zebulon and Naphtali by fear
Fly from his conq'ring Arms with base despair,
While all the Gentiles tremble at their Flight,
None dare resist the Fury of his Might:
This Promis'd Land, and long have Israel vex'd.
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Makes Zebulon and Naphtali by fear
Fly from his conq'ring Arms with base despair,
While all the Gentiles tremble at their Flight,
None dare resist the Fury of his Might:
All must submit, or his depleasure find
In rancour suited to his Savage kind.
This said, a Message soon was sent
T'assemble Israel's Elders to her Tent.
In rancour suited to his Savage kind.
This said, a Message soon was sent
T'assemble Israel's Elders to her Tent.
Mean time, her wearied Soul with Cares opprest
Drew down the Curtains of her Eyes to rest;
Extended on a Flow'ry Couch she lay
Entranc'd, as Death had wing'd her Soul away:
While thus the Prophetess took her repose,
A sudden Vision to her Fancy rose.
A Form appear'd, but so amazing bright,
Its lustre flash'd intolerable light;
Her Knees together knock'd, her starting Hair,
With trembling Heart confess'd unusual fear.
His Garments seem'd thin as the upper Air,
Sweet was his Mein, his Face divinely fair,
Soft as a Cloud, but more Ætherial bright,
His Image shone like springing Tydes of Light;
Down on his Shoulders with an easy Care,
A flaming Meteor flow'd like Silver Hair;
His Cheeks were blushing as the Morning Sun,
His Eyes more piercing than his Rays at Noon;
His Voice like softest Zephirs that on Violets play,
Refreshing Odours all the scorching day.
Such Harmony his Numbers did inspire,
Her Soul was tun'd to his melodious lyre.
When thus the sacred Bard his Message told.
Drew down the Curtains of her Eyes to rest;
Extended on a Flow'ry Couch she lay
Entranc'd, as Death had wing'd her Soul away:
While thus the Prophetess took her repose,
A sudden Vision to her Fancy rose.
A Form appear'd, but so amazing bright,
Its lustre flash'd intolerable light;
Her Knees together knock'd, her starting Hair,
With trembling Heart confess'd unusual fear.
His Garments seem'd thin as the upper Air,
Sweet was his Mein, his Face divinely fair,
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His Image shone like springing Tydes of Light;
Down on his Shoulders with an easy Care,
A flaming Meteor flow'd like Silver Hair;
His Cheeks were blushing as the Morning Sun,
His Eyes more piercing than his Rays at Noon;
His Voice like softest Zephirs that on Violets play,
Refreshing Odours all the scorching day.
Such Harmony his Numbers did inspire,
Her Soul was tun'd to his melodious lyre.
When thus the sacred Bard his Message told.
Deb'rah, thou Favourite Friend of Heav'n rise,
Dispel all Fears, wipe Sorrow from thy Eyes:
The great Jehovah, Founder of this State,
The God that did on your Fore-Fathers wait,
Will still the Wonders of his Mercy show,
And surely make Philistine Nations know,
There is a God to whom they do not bow.
By thee, fairest of Women, most divine,
By thee thy God thro' Israel's Land will shine;
Thou shalt in all thy glorious Works succeed,
Obey my Words, for they're by Heav'n decreed.
Heav'n, which makes ev'n Kings descend their Thrones,
Stript of their Purple and their shining Crowns,
Who boast of Strength, and trust in that alone,
Are by the breath of Heav'n soon tumbled down;
Mysterious Truths hid in the Veil of Night
Are by his Pow'r produc'd to open light.
In Plenty now the happy Nation lives,
And like a spreading Vine the Country thrives.
When sudden Desolation unforeseen
Reduces all her Pride to want again.
What numerous Crowds did once Samaria grace,
They seem'd to murmur at the narrow space;
Now all her mighty Warriors can't oppose
The daring Fury of insulting Foes.
Her Senators are at a stand, nor know which way
T'avoid the ruin of the fatal Day;
Council will not avail, all in amaze
With haggard Eyes upon each other gaze;
Fain would they fly, but know not where to run,
No hope is near the threatned Death to shun.
Dispel all Fears, wipe Sorrow from thy Eyes:
The great Jehovah, Founder of this State,
The God that did on your Fore-Fathers wait,
Will still the Wonders of his Mercy show,
And surely make Philistine Nations know,
There is a God to whom they do not bow.
By thee, fairest of Women, most divine,
By thee thy God thro' Israel's Land will shine;
Thou shalt in all thy glorious Works succeed,
Obey my Words, for they're by Heav'n decreed.
88
Stript of their Purple and their shining Crowns,
Who boast of Strength, and trust in that alone,
Are by the breath of Heav'n soon tumbled down;
Mysterious Truths hid in the Veil of Night
Are by his Pow'r produc'd to open light.
In Plenty now the happy Nation lives,
And like a spreading Vine the Country thrives.
When sudden Desolation unforeseen
Reduces all her Pride to want again.
What numerous Crowds did once Samaria grace,
They seem'd to murmur at the narrow space;
Now all her mighty Warriors can't oppose
The daring Fury of insulting Foes.
Her Senators are at a stand, nor know which way
T'avoid the ruin of the fatal Day;
Council will not avail, all in amaze
With haggard Eyes upon each other gaze;
Fain would they fly, but know not where to run,
No hope is near the threatned Death to shun.
89
And tell this Message in the Peoples Ear,
That Jacob's Race shall curb the growing Pow'r
Of proud Philistine Lords who wait each hour
The chosen Tribes of Israel to devour.
From Issachar the Hero shall be born,
Whom thou shalt with the chief Command adorn;
He shall be Captain o'er thy Men of War,
Inspir'd from Heav'n with Conduct and with Care
And brave, tho' not insensible of fear.
Abinoam's Son, Barak's the Hero's Name,
Oh Deb'rah! That shall exalt thy Fame,
And bring on Jabin everlasting shame.
Send for the Warrior, let the People know,
To Barak's Genius Sisera must bow;
Consult your Council, for the dreadful War
With all the strength of Israel prepare:
For Moab is with Sisera gone down,
And Jabin hunts for an Imperial Crown.
The Amorites and Moabites are Friends,
And hated Nations joyn for hated ends;
Then hast to Arms thou best of thy fair Race,
Let Peace thy Mind, while Smiles adorn thy Face,
90
Thou for a Guardian hast a Deity.
Swift from her Eyes the Spirit made its way,
And nought remain'd to Sight but lightsome Day,
When all alone she was surpriz'd to find
Such strong Impressions on her feeble Mind.
And nought remain'd to Sight but lightsome Day,
When all alone she was surpriz'd to find
Such strong Impressions on her feeble Mind.
No sooner was the leaden Clouds of Sleep dispell'd,
And Morpheus loos'd the Fetters which he held,
But Israel's Chieftains waited at her Tent,
To understand the Message she had sent.
And Morpheus loos'd the Fetters which he held,
But Israel's Chieftains waited at her Tent,
To understand the Message she had sent.
A goodly Frame rais'd high of carved Wood,
Leaning its lofty Head, on Cedars stood,
Near an old Venerable Pile ------
Adorn'd with curious Work of Antique Hands,
There all the States in full Assembly met;
Where they in Princely Robes of Scarlet set,
Glitt'ring in costly Gems, each takes his Place,
And fills the Senate with Majestick Grace;
While Warlike Trumpets their shrill clangors sound,
The Peoples Voices ecchoing rebound,
And Shouts and Tramplings shake the trembling Air and dancing Ground.
There hangs the Balance of the weighty State,
And there Rewards and Punishment do wait
A rigorous, or an equitable fate:
There Arbitrary Laws are curb'd and chain'd,
And there the Summit of all Justice gain'd,
Judges themselves, if Lawless, are not free,
From this Tribunal Seat of Equity.
Blest Liberty in Triumph sits her down,
Nor hurts the State, nor shakes the Imperial Crown.
Leaning its lofty Head, on Cedars stood,
Near an old Venerable Pile ------
Adorn'd with curious Work of Antique Hands,
There all the States in full Assembly met;
Where they in Princely Robes of Scarlet set,
Glitt'ring in costly Gems, each takes his Place,
And fills the Senate with Majestick Grace;
91
The Peoples Voices ecchoing rebound,
And Shouts and Tramplings shake the trembling Air and dancing Ground.
There hangs the Balance of the weighty State,
And there Rewards and Punishment do wait
A rigorous, or an equitable fate:
There Arbitrary Laws are curb'd and chain'd,
And there the Summit of all Justice gain'd,
Judges themselves, if Lawless, are not free,
From this Tribunal Seat of Equity.
Blest Liberty in Triumph sits her down,
Nor hurts the State, nor shakes the Imperial Crown.
All now were met, the Council fill'd apace,
And every Elder took his wonted place:
When thus Queen Deb'rah spoke—
My Lords, the cause why you're assembled here,
Is to advise—
About th'important Bus'ness of the War;
Jabin, you know, his Conquests spreads around,
And Vict'ry has His Arms with Triumph crown'd.
The slavish Amorites deflow'r our Fields,
Whilst Zebulon to their Incursions yields,
And Moab's Race, with heavy Burdens bent,
Submit to haughty Jabin's Government.
The might of Hazor's King, I need not tell,
Or all His vast Designs: You know too well
Israel has felt the fury of his Pow'r,
When God-like Joshua deliver'd you before.
But now, more potent by his Allies grown,
He Triumphs e're the Battel is begun.
While all his num'rous Squadrons do prepare
For dreadful Mischief, and destructive War;
Whom shall I chuse 'mongst Israel's mighty Men,
The Conduct of the Battel to sustain.
Who dare 'gainst Sisera, his Courage try
To Conquer bravely, or as bravely Die.
Then Barak answer'd Deb'rah, and said,
I will the Noble Youths of Israel lead,
And proudly for my Countries Honour bleed.
No Philistine shall on Mount Ephraim boast,
That Israel wants a Captain for their Host;
If Jacob's Rulers the design approve,
I'll take the Charge and to the Battel move.
And every Elder took his wonted place:
When thus Queen Deb'rah spoke—
My Lords, the cause why you're assembled here,
Is to advise—
About th'important Bus'ness of the War;
Jabin, you know, his Conquests spreads around,
And Vict'ry has His Arms with Triumph crown'd.
92
Whilst Zebulon to their Incursions yields,
And Moab's Race, with heavy Burdens bent,
Submit to haughty Jabin's Government.
The might of Hazor's King, I need not tell,
Or all His vast Designs: You know too well
Israel has felt the fury of his Pow'r,
When God-like Joshua deliver'd you before.
But now, more potent by his Allies grown,
He Triumphs e're the Battel is begun.
While all his num'rous Squadrons do prepare
For dreadful Mischief, and destructive War;
Whom shall I chuse 'mongst Israel's mighty Men,
The Conduct of the Battel to sustain.
Who dare 'gainst Sisera, his Courage try
To Conquer bravely, or as bravely Die.
Then Barak answer'd Deb'rah, and said,
I will the Noble Youths of Israel lead,
And proudly for my Countries Honour bleed.
No Philistine shall on Mount Ephraim boast,
That Israel wants a Captain for their Host;
If Jacob's Rulers the design approve,
I'll take the Charge and to the Battel move.
93
And who to Pow'r, with less desert aspir'd;
Stood up, and thus with furious rage reply'd,
Is Barak fit to lead the Tribes to War,
Who once against all Israel did appear?
Have I in vain on Ephraims Mount defy'd,
The Ammonites, and all the Hilly side,
That Bethel does from Moab's Land divide.
And shall not Othniel lead the People out,
Speak Princess now, my Lords, declare your doubt;
Can you deny the Glory of my Fame,
Or what has Othniel done to brand his Name?
With that, an Ephramite in Council wise,
With def'rence to the rest, did thus advise.
We all are sensible, the happy State
Of Israel, does on our great Councils wait;
That Judah's Lyon is dismay'd with fear,
And Hazor's Monarch Conquers ev'ry where.
What Noble Othniel then propos'd before,
I well approve, and think on any score,
Barak shou'd never serve in Israel more.
Did not brave Othniel lead us with Success,
When Barak left Judea in distress:
94
But Israel doats on Othniel's dearer Name;
Matchless he stands in all the Peoples Voice,
And I opine he ought to be our Choice.
At these warm Words, a Danite old in War,
All cover'd o'er with Scars and Martial care,
Of dauntless Courage and of thoughtful Pride,
Sate still, considering by the Chieftains side,
Wanting Revenge on Othniel cast his Eye,
With marks of Passion not of Cruelty:
At last his Rage abating, Silence broke,
The Council being mute, these Words he spoke.
All cover'd o'er with Scars and Martial care,
Of dauntless Courage and of thoughtful Pride,
Sate still, considering by the Chieftains side,
Wanting Revenge on Othniel cast his Eye,
With marks of Passion not of Cruelty:
At last his Rage abating, Silence broke,
The Council being mute, these Words he spoke.
O Princess! Let not Popular Applause,
Byass your Judgment in a glorious Cause;
Barak has offer'd to lead Israel out,
And who can of his Conduct, or his Courage doubt;
The better part of War in him remains,
By wise Designs more than by Blood he gains;
He that like Othniel does to Battel go,
With Strength alone, he beats but half his Foe;
Mature in Councils Gen'rals ought to be,
Not fill'd with Fire so much as Policy,
For Life's of more concern than Victory.
But how dares Othniel, e're his grey Head age,
Attempt with War-like Sis'ra to engage,
Or lead united Forces to the War,
Where old experienc'd Gen'rals appear.
Byass your Judgment in a glorious Cause;
Barak has offer'd to lead Israel out,
And who can of his Conduct, or his Courage doubt;
The better part of War in him remains,
By wise Designs more than by Blood he gains;
He that like Othniel does to Battel go,
With Strength alone, he beats but half his Foe;
95
Not fill'd with Fire so much as Policy,
For Life's of more concern than Victory.
But how dares Othniel, e're his grey Head age,
Attempt with War-like Sis'ra to engage,
Or lead united Forces to the War,
Where old experienc'd Gen'rals appear.
This Speech fill'd Zoab, a Naphtalite with rage
That did exceed the Conduct of his Age.
My Lords, said he, I've long in Council sate,
And oft consider'd Israel's dangerous State,
But never yet expected, once to have heard
A Prince of Issachar, with Othniel compar'd:
What cou'd he find none to espouse his Cause,
But one so little vers'd in Israel's Laws;
One who in Foreign Service may have known
What, by Despotick Monarchs has been done.
But Israel's State is blest with such a Gem,
She'd not exchange for Jabin's Diadem:
And this old doating Danite has forgot,
That Dan must suffer too in Zoab's lot:
Must we the Portions of our Land divide,
To pamper Barak with a Gen'ral's Pride,
And make the Sons of Issachar disdain,
The very Tribes that do their Pomp maintain.
That did exceed the Conduct of his Age.
My Lords, said he, I've long in Council sate,
And oft consider'd Israel's dangerous State,
But never yet expected, once to have heard
A Prince of Issachar, with Othniel compar'd:
What cou'd he find none to espouse his Cause,
But one so little vers'd in Israel's Laws;
One who in Foreign Service may have known
What, by Despotick Monarchs has been done.
But Israel's State is blest with such a Gem,
She'd not exchange for Jabin's Diadem:
And this old doating Danite has forgot,
That Dan must suffer too in Zoab's lot:
96
To pamper Barak with a Gen'ral's Pride,
And make the Sons of Issachar disdain,
The very Tribes that do their Pomp maintain.
These furious Words, from Party Passion rais'd,
The Queen and Council with surprize amaz'd.
At last, strict Silence was commanded round,
When Deb'rah, thus with God-like Patience crown'd,
These Words pronounc'd: My Lords, I call'd you here,
'Tis true, to advise about the present War,
But ne'er design'd you shou'd 'fore me declare.
If Jewish Blood with too much Passion Boil,
'Nere Spil't in vain on Israel's faten'd Soil;
Let Moab's. Land your lavish Courage share,
At Home 'tis base, Abroad, 'tis Noble War.
Let me Command you, your Contentions cease,
And give me your Debates in settled Peace;
I wou'd b' advis'd, when I wou'd Govern well,
And advise you, that Pattern to excel:
Then once again let me with Temper hear,
Who you Judge fittest to Command the War.
Then Barak humbly Spoke—
Great Princess! And you Lords of Israel hear,
Who make the Jewish State your constant care;
To you with all Submission I appeal,
You are the Balm that our Divisions heal.
The Queen and Council with surprize amaz'd.
At last, strict Silence was commanded round,
When Deb'rah, thus with God-like Patience crown'd,
These Words pronounc'd: My Lords, I call'd you here,
'Tis true, to advise about the present War,
But ne'er design'd you shou'd 'fore me declare.
If Jewish Blood with too much Passion Boil,
'Nere Spil't in vain on Israel's faten'd Soil;
Let Moab's. Land your lavish Courage share,
At Home 'tis base, Abroad, 'tis Noble War.
Let me Command you, your Contentions cease,
And give me your Debates in settled Peace;
I wou'd b' advis'd, when I wou'd Govern well,
And advise you, that Pattern to excel:
Then once again let me with Temper hear,
Who you Judge fittest to Command the War.
97
Great Princess! And you Lords of Israel hear,
Who make the Jewish State your constant care;
To you with all Submission I appeal,
You are the Balm that our Divisions heal.
Tell me, my Lords, if you have ever seen
Barak, to Israel false, or to the Queen;
Why then shou'd Ephraim, or Napthali, revile
The Race of Issachar—
But I can Zoab's Rage with ease forgive,
So Israel prosper, and Queen Deb'rah live;
You may remember when all Ephraim fled,
And Juda's Nobles stood like Statues dead.
Then Barak propt that proud ungrateful Race,
That in Judea, Barak wou'd disgrace:
Oh hear me Lords! Spare your Reproaches now,
Does not all Israel to Philistine Jabin bow?
Do we not cringe below the Tyrants Feet,
And to the Laws his Arms prescribe submit.
Barak, to Israel false, or to the Queen;
Why then shou'd Ephraim, or Napthali, revile
The Race of Issachar—
But I can Zoab's Rage with ease forgive,
So Israel prosper, and Queen Deb'rah live;
You may remember when all Ephraim fled,
And Juda's Nobles stood like Statues dead.
Then Barak propt that proud ungrateful Race,
That in Judea, Barak wou'd disgrace:
Oh hear me Lords! Spare your Reproaches now,
Does not all Israel to Philistine Jabin bow?
Do we not cringe below the Tyrants Feet,
And to the Laws his Arms prescribe submit.
What then has Barak done? do Jewish Peers
Despise the Man that wou'd dispel their Fears?
Not for my self, do I this Honour seek,
My Countries Danger, 'tis that makes me speak:
But since I find in faithless Israel few,
When pressing Dangers call, that will be true,
I shall my Courage for the future spare,
Cowards can boast, when Danger is not near.
Despise the Man that wou'd dispel their Fears?
98
My Countries Danger, 'tis that makes me speak:
But since I find in faithless Israel few,
When pressing Dangers call, that will be true,
I shall my Courage for the future spare,
Cowards can boast, when Danger is not near.
With that, a Reubenite, tho' Young, yet Wise
Stood up, and thus in Council did advise,
Tho' grey, Experience has not reach'd my Years,
Nor have I been alarm'd with Foreign Fears,
Yet I am sensible all Israel's Fate,
Does much on our Wise Councils wait.
Judea's Safety in our Conduct lies,
And Strength is nothing if we are not Wise;
Therefore, my Lords, I must my Judgment give
For Barak, which I hope you will receive.
Then all the Council mov'd with willing Ears,
Attended to the Wisdom of his Years;
While thus the Noble Youth continued on,
The bold Discourse he had so well begun.
I am amaz'd, from this Wise Board to hear,
One Soul of ancient Jacob's Race appear,
'Gainst Barak: Did he not Judea save?
Are not his Thoughts, his Looks, his Words, his Actions brave?
Don't we by long Experience know how great
He stood, at Frighted Ephraim's last defeat,
And what we by his prudent Councils gain,
Is equal to the Glories of a Monarchs Reign;
How provident at Home, how watchful in the Field,
Envy its self must to His Virtues yield:
The pompous Luxury of Camps he flies,
While downy Rest their Rioting supplies,
Who're chain'd in Sleep, when Sleep forsakes his Eyes.
Stood up, and thus in Council did advise,
Tho' grey, Experience has not reach'd my Years,
Nor have I been alarm'd with Foreign Fears,
Yet I am sensible all Israel's Fate,
Does much on our Wise Councils wait.
Judea's Safety in our Conduct lies,
And Strength is nothing if we are not Wise;
Therefore, my Lords, I must my Judgment give
For Barak, which I hope you will receive.
Then all the Council mov'd with willing Ears,
Attended to the Wisdom of his Years;
While thus the Noble Youth continued on,
The bold Discourse he had so well begun.
I am amaz'd, from this Wise Board to hear,
One Soul of ancient Jacob's Race appear,
99
Are not his Thoughts, his Looks, his Words, his Actions brave?
Don't we by long Experience know how great
He stood, at Frighted Ephraim's last defeat,
And what we by his prudent Councils gain,
Is equal to the Glories of a Monarchs Reign;
How provident at Home, how watchful in the Field,
Envy its self must to His Virtues yield:
The pompous Luxury of Camps he flies,
While downy Rest their Rioting supplies,
Who're chain'd in Sleep, when Sleep forsakes his Eyes.
He said, and as the hallow Caverns of some Wood,
Send back in Eccho's the still Voice aloud,
So from the Silence of the Council rose,
To all his Words, a general applause.
But Malice in the Assembly still remains,
Whilst Maroc's Blood fermented in his Veins;
He was, of Judah's Captains, rank'd the Prime,
For Strength and Matchless Valour in his time,
Who thus, with cloudy Aspect sour'd, began—
Send back in Eccho's the still Voice aloud,
So from the Silence of the Council rose,
To all his Words, a general applause.
But Malice in the Assembly still remains,
Whilst Maroc's Blood fermented in his Veins;
He was, of Judah's Captains, rank'd the Prime,
For Strength and Matchless Valour in his time,
Who thus, with cloudy Aspect sour'd, began—
100
What Reverend Age is able to declare;
You all must know how awful once I sate,
When Scepter'd Monarch's waited at my Gate,
And proud Philistine Lords their Homage paid,
On Ephraims Mount, where now they are obey'd:
I tell you Nobles, Barak must not go,
To lead out Israel, or engage the Foe;
Has not great Hazor's powerful Monarch seen,
Israel distress'd, and Deb'rah made their Queen:
What then remains for us to seek but Peace:
Divided as we are, how must we Fight,
But perish poorly by inglorious flight:
I know what Strength all Israel can Command,
Not able to protect our Holy-Land.
At these base Words, the Queen in Passion rose,
And with becoming Zeal did Maroc thus oppose,
Tho' She was with the softest Nature blest,
Like sleeping Doves, when on their downy rest,
For Israel's Cause She was Divinely fir'd,
And spoke these moving Words, by Heav'n inspir'd.
And with becoming Zeal did Maroc thus oppose,
Tho' She was with the softest Nature blest,
Like sleeping Doves, when on their downy rest,
For Israel's Cause She was Divinely fir'd,
And spoke these moving Words, by Heav'n inspir'd.
101
And see the Ruins of approaching War,
How sure Destruction shows its ghastly hue,
And Death and Mis'ry stand in open view,
Like ancient Night and Horror, Discord seems,
But Union centers like the Sun its Beams;
Avoid my People then, resolve to fly
Confusion and Eternal Anarchy;
Ponder the Dangers of that wild Abyss,
Wherein the pregnant Cause of Mischief is:
The Womb of War, lies in the rowling Tyde
Of Factious Streams, that does the Flood divide,
And drowns the level Land on either side.
But neither Sea nor Shore Divisions please,
Bellona's Storms create to them no ease;
But trembling at the noisy Sounds they make,
As with Convulsions seiz'd the Earth does shake,
The Massy Frame on which her Pillars stand,
Rock thus as at the Thund'rers dire command.
When surging Smoke breaks from huge clashing Clouds,
And Warring Winds confound the Sailors Shrowds,
102
All Nature Trembles at the hideous frown
Of War ------
Whose ruddy Flame like Gorgon's Eyes appear,
Too bright at distance, and too killing near;
Remorseless is the Pity of this Fiend,
Uncertain are his ways, but sure his end.
His Arms out-stretch'd are like a Furnace wide,
Thousands he Measures at each spacious stride;
And his infernal Belching who can bide
His Wings extended fan the boistrous deep,
And does the Scaly Brood in Terror keep;
The batt'ring Engins of his awful flame,
Ruin and Want and Misery proclaim,
Bent on his Rage no Time nor Place he'll save,
But murder Mankind to recruit the Grave.
This said, the Queen to Maroc turn'd her Eyes,
And to his biting Words she thus replies,
And to his biting Words she thus replies,
My Lord,—
Tho' War of all our Evils is the worst,
And brought on Man when Man by Heav'n was Curst,
Yet such the State of Israel is this Day,
I sought your Aid, knowing no other way;
For Deb'rah was expedient, to maintain
The Glories you expected from my Reign;
But wondring now, I gaz'd with much surprise,
And scarcely can believe the object of my Eyes.
Is not that Maroc, Prince of Judah's Blood,
That once for Israel like a Bulwark stood,
And can his Courage dwindle into Fear,
'Cause Jabin threats, and Sisera draws near?
Have we not oft Philistine Hofts defy'd
On Jordan's Banks, and on the Hilly side,
Triumph'd o'er that insulting Monarch's pride.
What have I heard pronounc'd from Maroc's Tongue
Of Peace, who always has of Battels sung.
What Peace from perjur'd Jabin can we find?
Jabin the Monster of the Monarch kind.
Has he not all his tyes of Friendship broke,
When he was fetter'd once with Israel's Yoke,
When he to Judah's Lyon su'd for Peace,
But only kept it for his Soldiers ease?
And brought on Man when Man by Heav'n was Curst,
103
I sought your Aid, knowing no other way;
For Deb'rah was expedient, to maintain
The Glories you expected from my Reign;
But wondring now, I gaz'd with much surprise,
And scarcely can believe the object of my Eyes.
Is not that Maroc, Prince of Judah's Blood,
That once for Israel like a Bulwark stood,
And can his Courage dwindle into Fear,
'Cause Jabin threats, and Sisera draws near?
Have we not oft Philistine Hofts defy'd
On Jordan's Banks, and on the Hilly side,
Triumph'd o'er that insulting Monarch's pride.
What have I heard pronounc'd from Maroc's Tongue
Of Peace, who always has of Battels sung.
What Peace from perjur'd Jabin can we find?
Jabin the Monster of the Monarch kind.
Has he not all his tyes of Friendship broke,
When he was fetter'd once with Israel's Yoke,
When he to Judah's Lyon su'd for Peace,
But only kept it for his Soldiers ease?
104
Think you, I'll hold the Regal Rod in vain,
But guide my People, and their Rights maintain.
Then tell me, Prince, why must not Barak go
To lead out Israel's Host, against her Foe?
I call'd you here in Council to advise,
But find by your delays Dangers arise;
The Enemy encreases ev'ry where,
And yet we in Security appear,
Careless at Home, Abroad Destruction fear;
By prying Cowardice we make them bold,
Some glory in the Advantages they hold;
Yet in our Native Strength we daily boast,
And never think how soon it may be lost:
Therefore all Thoughts of discord let us fly,
When Danger calls, 'tis time to think of Unity.
But guide my People, and their Rights maintain.
Then tell me, Prince, why must not Barak go
To lead out Israel's Host, against her Foe?
I call'd you here in Council to advise,
But find by your delays Dangers arise;
The Enemy encreases ev'ry where,
And yet we in Security appear,
Careless at Home, Abroad Destruction fear;
By prying Cowardice we make them bold,
Some glory in the Advantages they hold;
Yet in our Native Strength we daily boast,
And never think how soon it may be lost:
Therefore all Thoughts of discord let us fly,
When Danger calls, 'tis time to think of Unity.
At this a general Murmour fill'd the Room,
Like whistling Winds that from deep Caverns come,
When strait behold thro' all the sacred Place,
Consent sate chearfully on ev'ry Face;
But stern Samor's, who with contracted Brows,
That the perverseness of his Nature shows,
Frown'd, and with Ireful Looks the Queen oppos'd.
Like whistling Winds that from deep Caverns come,
When strait behold thro' all the sacred Place,
Consent sate chearfully on ev'ry Face;
But stern Samor's, who with contracted Brows,
That the perverseness of his Nature shows,
Frown'd, and with Ireful Looks the Queen oppos'd.
105
To trifle with my Country's Safety, but I fear
Ev'n now She suffers more than She can bear;
If War be what the Council does advise,
I hope the Council will provide Supplies;
Not go to fight with Jabin's Power by halv's,
And make us sooner, than we need, be Slaves:
As for this Barak, whom you wou'd declare,
Will he lend Money to support the War,
Or serve his Country like a Jewish Peer;
Without a Mercenary Soldier's Pay
That fights for Gold, or for it runs away;
Are there no Nobles in Judea left,
Or are we of Nobility bereft?
Not one brave Soul thro' Israel's Tents to say
I fight for Honour, not for Jewish Pay.
Where is the ancient Pride of Judah fled,
That suffered none to lead them but their Head?
Victorious Sov'raigns, whose Imperial Sway
Taught them at once to Conquer and Obey,
Then who's this Mighty Son of Issachar,
That he such Glory shou'd attempt to share?
106
The Mighty Heir of his great Father's Skill?
Was he not bred up in the Martial Field,
That first did to his Infant softness yield?
Where then is Israel's boasted Wisdom seen,
Or yours, in choosing Barak, Mighty Queen?
At this a sudden Noise breaks thro' the Air,
Which chills the Senates Blood with pannick Fear;
Th'Earth shakes, Dogs houl, while they all trembling stand,
As once the Sun did at Heav'ns great Command;
A Haggard Fury cuts her winged way
Amidst the Senate, at the Noon of Day;
Her sable Mantle was embroider'd o'er
With loathsome Spots and Stains of Purple gore;
Four Steeds her Chariot drew, as black as jet,
With unpair'd Nails, and torturing Claws beset;
The frightful Screech Owl first prepares the way,
And sulp'rous Poyson Steams proclaim her stay,
With staring ghastly Looks, unmov'd she sate,
Swoln big with Pride, but more with Rage and Hate,
Pale Pinnard Cheeks, black Hair, sharp pointed Chin,
A breathless Corps without, all Hell within,
Then Lordly like old Lucifer in state,
She look'd, while all the Hall in Silence sate,
With flatt'ring Speeches, and with soothing Rage,
She strives the Tribes of Israel to engage.
See, see my Sons your fruitful Land no more,
Smiling in pleasant Shows and plenteous store,
If you to War with Jabin go, ah! See!
The Earth no more replete with Luxury;
Now Lutes and Viols charm the ravish'd Ear,
Then will you be distracted with pale Fear.
Which chills the Senates Blood with pannick Fear;
Th'Earth shakes, Dogs houl, while they all trembling stand,
As once the Sun did at Heav'ns great Command;
A Haggard Fury cuts her winged way
Amidst the Senate, at the Noon of Day;
Her sable Mantle was embroider'd o'er
With loathsome Spots and Stains of Purple gore;
Four Steeds her Chariot drew, as black as jet,
With unpair'd Nails, and torturing Claws beset;
The frightful Screech Owl first prepares the way,
And sulp'rous Poyson Steams proclaim her stay,
With staring ghastly Looks, unmov'd she sate,
Swoln big with Pride, but more with Rage and Hate,
107
A breathless Corps without, all Hell within,
Then Lordly like old Lucifer in state,
She look'd, while all the Hall in Silence sate,
With flatt'ring Speeches, and with soothing Rage,
She strives the Tribes of Israel to engage.
See, see my Sons your fruitful Land no more,
Smiling in pleasant Shows and plenteous store,
If you to War with Jabin go, ah! See!
The Earth no more replete with Luxury;
Now Lutes and Viols charm the ravish'd Ear,
Then will you be distracted with pale Fear.
Let War sleep safe, and Whips of Furies cease,
Let ease succeed, and Israel live in Peace,
Let all your Youths, in sporting, laugh and play,
And with fresh Olives, crown the smiling Day.
So said, she vanish'd, while the Senate round
Look'd sullen, with stern Anger frown'd,
Some bit their Lips with Rage, some stupid sate,
Some gnash'd their poys'nous Teeth with spite and hate;
Soft Murmours first, crept thro' th'enraged Crowd;
At length, they storm'd and chaf'd, and Thunder'd loud,
And all sad Vengeance swore, and all dire Mischief vow'd.
Let ease succeed, and Israel live in Peace,
Let all your Youths, in sporting, laugh and play,
And with fresh Olives, crown the smiling Day.
So said, she vanish'd, while the Senate round
Look'd sullen, with stern Anger frown'd,
Some bit their Lips with Rage, some stupid sate,
Some gnash'd their poys'nous Teeth with spite and hate;
108
At length, they storm'd and chaf'd, and Thunder'd loud,
And all sad Vengeance swore, and all dire Mischief vow'd.
When see amidst this heat, before their Eyes
A form of Light ineffable did rise,
Like the glad Morning Sun in flow'ry May,
That gilds the Sphere with his uprising Ray,
Her upper Garments were like Silken Lawn,
Or the blue Curtain, which o'er Heav'n is drawn;
Of Crimson red her rosy Cheeks were dy'd,
With beauty blushing nought but Natures Pride,
So snowy white, her milky Breasts, so fair,
Light wou'd be Shadow if we shou'd compare;
Low at her Feet the Earth lay grov'ling down,
And humbly waited her to tread upon;
The curling Waves about her only Crow'd,
To grace her Triumphs when they roar aloud;
This beauteous Image sate upon a Throne,
And more than mortal Lustre 'bout her shone.
At last, the Clouds broke from their misled Eyes,
When they beheld their Queen with glad surprize;
Deb'rah they saw was sent 'em from above,
To Rule and Guide them by her pious Love.
A form of Light ineffable did rise,
Like the glad Morning Sun in flow'ry May,
That gilds the Sphere with his uprising Ray,
Her upper Garments were like Silken Lawn,
Or the blue Curtain, which o'er Heav'n is drawn;
Of Crimson red her rosy Cheeks were dy'd,
With beauty blushing nought but Natures Pride,
So snowy white, her milky Breasts, so fair,
Light wou'd be Shadow if we shou'd compare;
Low at her Feet the Earth lay grov'ling down,
And humbly waited her to tread upon;
The curling Waves about her only Crow'd,
To grace her Triumphs when they roar aloud;
This beauteous Image sate upon a Throne,
And more than mortal Lustre 'bout her shone.
109
When they beheld their Queen with glad surprize;
Deb'rah they saw was sent 'em from above,
To Rule and Guide them by her pious Love.
And now the Queen prepar'd to let 'em know
How bounteous Heav'n in Goodness did o'erflow,
Charms from her Tongue did fall, and ev'ry Word
Pierc'd thro' the Ears soft Organ like a Sword,
Th'Assembly stood all lifeless, Pale and Mute,
Nor durst reply, nor durst again dispute;
But to the Throne, with down cast Eyes they bow'd.
And prostrate at Her Feet, their Duty show'd,
Conviction fell with fear on every Son,
Who had oppos'd the Choice, the Queen begun;
And every one now strives to loose his Tongue
To Deb'rah, then to Barak makes his Song:
How bounteous Heav'n in Goodness did o'erflow,
Charms from her Tongue did fall, and ev'ry Word
Pierc'd thro' the Ears soft Organ like a Sword,
Th'Assembly stood all lifeless, Pale and Mute,
Nor durst reply, nor durst again dispute;
But to the Throne, with down cast Eyes they bow'd.
And prostrate at Her Feet, their Duty show'd,
Conviction fell with fear on every Son,
Who had oppos'd the Choice, the Queen begun;
And every one now strives to loose his Tongue
To Deb'rah, then to Barak makes his Song:
Zobab whom Samor wou'd have made their Choice,
First mov'd the Senate with exalted Voice:
Who can forget, O! Queen th'Happy Day
Thou blest our Israel, with thy peaceful Sway?
When Israel slept, thou wak'd our slumbring Eyes,
And as another Sun did at our Midnight rise;
Heav'n did it self in bright Apparel dress,
And tuneful Angels sung soft Hymns of Peace,
In dancing Airs, Stars from their Spheres were sent,
And springing Joy spread o'er your Royal Tent.
First mov'd the Senate with exalted Voice:
Who can forget, O! Queen th'Happy Day
Thou blest our Israel, with thy peaceful Sway?
110
And as another Sun did at our Midnight rise;
Heav'n did it self in bright Apparel dress,
And tuneful Angels sung soft Hymns of Peace,
In dancing Airs, Stars from their Spheres were sent,
And springing Joy spread o'er your Royal Tent.
Why then shou'd we ungratefully oppose
Our Royal Mistriss? Why her Favours lose,
Who such vast Bounties on her Palestine bestows?
Our Royal Mistriss? Why her Favours lose,
Who such vast Bounties on her Palestine bestows?
If Barak be the Man by Heav'n decreed
Why dare we Heav'n and thus make Deb'rah bleed,
If neither Heaven nor yet the Queen had said,
Barak shou'd lead out Israel as their Head,
Is not his Courage, and his Conduct known
To Israel, that we choose him for our own.
Why dare we Heav'n and thus make Deb'rah bleed,
If neither Heaven nor yet the Queen had said,
Barak shou'd lead out Israel as their Head,
Is not his Courage, and his Conduct known
To Israel, that we choose him for our own.
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