ABRAHAM FIDELIS. I take upon me too much, Lord, in thy sight.
PATER COELESTIS. No, no, good Abraham, for I know thy faith is right.
ABRAHAM FIDELIS. No less, I suppose, than twenty can it have.
PATER COELESTIS. Could I find twenty, that city would I save.
ABRAHAM FIDELIS. Once yet will I speak my mind, and then no more.
PATER COELESTIS. Spare not to utter so much as thou hast in store.
ABRAHAM FIDELIS. And what, if there might be ten good creatures found?
PATER COELESTIS. The rest for their sakes might so be safe and sound,
And not destroyed for their abhomination.
ABRAHAM FIDELIS. O Merciful Maker, much is thy toleration
And sufferance of sin. I see it now indeed,
Witsafe yet of favour out of these cities to lead
Those that be faithful, though their flocks be but small.
PATER COELESTIS. Loth and his household I will deliver all,
For righteousness sake, which is of me and not them.