In vain perversely, princes, you surmise

Verse 1

In vain perversely, princes, you surmise, God views your judgments with regardless eyes; Lo! in the midst he stands, your ways beholds, And thus in thunder his dread wrath unfolds.

Verse 2

"How long thus partial will ye judge? how long "Support their cause, who in their guilt are strong?

Verse 3

"Ah! rather the distressed orphan view, "And to the cause of innocence be true;

Verse 4

"Ah! free the wretched from th' oppressive foe, "And do the poor the justice that you owe.

Verse 5

"Vainly I warn them; obstinately blind; "A fatal error chains their stubborn mind; "In guilt they're resolute, and won't observe "The dire result, when they from justice swerve,

Verse 6

"I cal'd you gods, to you the pow'r I gave, "To slay th' oppressor, and th' opprest to save; "On you my own prerogative bestow'd, "To curb the villain, and protect the good.

Verse 7

"But now grim death, with all his horrid train, "Shall soon convince you, that you are but men, "Shall sink your boasted honours in the grave, "And make you equal with the meanest slave,

Verse 8

Yes; Lord Jehovah, thou vindictive rise; To thee ascend the orphan's plaintive cries, Judge thou the earth, and make fell tyrants know Thou rul'st, impartial, all the realms below.