To whom the Patriarch of mankind repli'd.

O favourable spirit, propitious guest, Well hast thou taught the way that might direct Our knowledge, and the scale of Nature set From center to circumference, whereon In contemplation of created things By steps we may ascend to God.

But say, What meant that caution joind, IF YE BE FOUND OBEDIENT?
can wee want obedience then To him, or possibly his love desert Who formd us from the dust, and plac'd us here Full to the utmost measure of what bliss Human desires can seek or apprehend?
To whom the Angel.

Son of Heav'n and Earth, Attend: That thou art happie, owe to God; That thou continu'st such, owe to thy self, That is, to thy obedience; therein stand.

This was that caution giv'n thee; be advis'd.