Pater Cœlestis. May I find thirty, I will nothing do unto them.
Abraham. I take upon me too much, Lord, in thy sight.
Pater Cœlestis. No, no, good Abraham, for I know thy faith is right.
Abraham. No less, I suppose, than twenty can it have.
Pater Cœlestis. Could I find twenty, that city would I save.
Abraham. Once yet will I speak my mind, and then no more.
Pater Cœlestis. Spare not to utter so much as thou hast in store.
Abraham. And what if there might be ten good creatures found?
Pater Cœlestis. The rest for their sakes might so be safe and sound,
And not destroyed for their abomination.
Abraham. O merciful Maker, much is thy toleration
And sufferance of sin: I see it now indeed;
Vouchsafe yet of favour out of those cities to lead
Those that be faithful, though their flock be but small.