If so they deal at me a deadly thrust,
Or wile me on, with promises of weight,
To life and pleasure, that wide-opened gate!
Hold, Romans, let your burning ardour cease,
To break the wall ye have no need to move;
For though your mighty power should more increase,
Ye shall not conquer me, as I shall prove!
My firm resolve ye now may view in peace,
And if ye doubt the pure and perfect love
Which I have cherished for my country dear,