An Introduction to the Prose and Poetical Works of John Milton / Comprising All the Autobiographic Passages in His Works, the More Explicit Presentations of His Ideas of True Liberty.

by John Milton

Manoa. Tell us the sum, the circumstance defer.

Messenger. Gaza yet stands, but all her sons are fallen,

All in a moment overwhelmed and fallen.

Manoa. Sad! but thou know'st to Israelites not saddest 1560

The desolation of a hostile city.

Messenger. Feed on that first, there may in grief be surfeit.

Manoa. Relate by whom.

Messenger. By Samson.

Manoa. That still lessens

The sorrow, and converts it nigh to joy.