Michael, this my behest have thou in charge:

Take to thee from among the Cherubim

Thy choice of flaming warriors, lest the Fiend,

Or in behalf of Men, or to invade

Vacant possession, some new trouble raise.

Haste thee, and from the Paradise of God,

Without remorse, drive out the sinful pair,

(From hallow'd ground th' unholy), and denounce

To them and to their progeny, form thence

Perpetual banishment. yet, lest they faint

At the sad sentence rigorously urged,

For I behold them soften'd, and with tears

Bewailing their excess, all terror hide.

If patiently thy bidding they obey,

Dismiss them not disconsolate. Reveal

To Adam what shall come in future days,

As I shall thee enlighten. Intermix

My cov'nant in the Woman's seed renew'd;

So send them forth, tho' sorrowing, yet in peace;