Magicians, at bidding of Pharaoh, did cast

Their wands down, to Moses’ rod as a repast.

From his rod to their wands a chasm there must be;

From his act to theirs we an interval see.35

God’s curse on their witchcraft and devilish art!

His blessing on Moses, who chose the best part!

To me, like as apes are man’s miscreants all;[70]

To speak of them causes me, straight, sick to fall!

Whatever men practise, apes will copy still;

Our actions they mimic; of thought they know nil.