To quell rebellion’s perils, rising in a trice.
So when he rested from due ordering his wide realm,
He felt that other kings misrule might overwhelm.
Then interceded he: “This rule, this much-prized flower,
Vouchsafe to none, save with the selfsame power.370
To whom Thou mayest it grant upon these very terms,
He’s Solomon, he is myself, my sway confirms.
He’ll not come after me, he’ll reign with me indeed;
With me and in me, free from rival’s dreaded meed.”
This to expound appeared a duty paramount;