University of Virginia Library

Search this document 
Abimelech

an oratorio. As it is performed at the theatre-royal in Covent-Garden [by Christopher Smart]. The Music by Mr. Arnold

collapse section 
collapse section 
collapse sectionI. 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
expand sectionII. 
expand sectionIII. 

Recitative.

Sarah.
We're treated here like prisoners, not like guests,
And guarded by a keeper—I but offer'd
To pass beyond the garden, and was question'd
As touching my presumptiom—If this Phicol
Must needs be ask'd permission for an airing,
Our royal host has robb'd us of our freedom—
This is full wretched—Confidence deceiv'd,
Is more impatient of unwonted thrall,
Than he who, sick of liberty, wou'd change
His own caprices for a guiding monarch.