CANTO V.
103
The Prelate saw their Fall with ghastful Eyes,
And sent to Heav'n a Scream that pierc'd the Skies.
Struck back with Horror and Appall'd with Fear,
He curses in his Heart the God of War,
With Silent Indignation he Retreats,
Yet still the Chanter in his Mind defeats.
Then rallying his lost Spirits, Makes a Stand,
And from his Cassock Draws his Vengeful Hand.
Yes, said the Mighty Chief; Tho' Armies fail,
These Blessing-giving Fingers shall prevail.
Forward he moves, and upwards turns his Eyes,
Then Stretch'd his Fingers forth in Holy-Wise.
Kneeling in heaps the Passengers Receive
The Benedictions He prepares to Give,
With politic design to turn the Rout
Upon his Foes, who durst not Stand him Out.
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