So, when of old the Almighty Father sate
In council, to redeem our ruined state,
}
Millions of millions, at a distance round, }
Silent the sacred consistory crowned, }
To hear what mercy, mixt with justice, could propound; }
All prompt, with eager pity, to fulfil
The full extent of their Creator's will:
But when the stern conditions were declared,
A mournful whisper through the host was heard,