I will tell it, therefore, as briefly and formally as possible.
"First, then, they have decreed the blessing of separation.

You and Almah must now be parted, since this is regarded as the highest bliss of lovers.
"Secondly, they have decreed the blessing of poverty.

All these luxuries will be taken away, and you will be raised to an equality in this respect with the great paupers.
"Thirdly, you are to have the blessing of darkness.

You are to be removed from this troublesome and vexatious light, which here is regarded as a curse, and henceforth live without it.
"Fourthly, the next decree is the high reward of imprisonment.

You are to be delivered from the evils of liberty, and shut up in a dark cavern, from which it will be impossible to escape or to communicate with anyone outside.
"Fifthly, you are to associate with the greatest of the paupers, the class that is the most honored and influential.