My darkness hitherto, by the singular kindness of God, amid rest and studies, and the voices and greetings of friends, has been much easier to bear than that deathly one.

But if, as is written, 'Man doth not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God,' what should prevent me from resting in the belief that eyesight lies not in eyes alone, but enough for all purposes in God's leading and providence?
Verily, while only He looks out for me, and provides for me, as He doth; teaching me and leading me forth with His hand through my whole life, I shall willingly, since it hath seemed good to Him, have given my eyes their long holiday.

And to you I now bid farewell, with a mind not less brave and steadfast than if I were Lynceus himself for keenness of sight." Religion and philosophy, of which no brighter example was ever given, did not, in this sore trial, disdain the support of a manly pride:-- "What supports me, dost thou ask?
The conscience, friend, to have lost them overplied In liberty's defence, my noble task, O! which all Europe rings from side to side; This thought might lead me through the world's vain mask, Content though blind, had I no better guide." Noble words, and Milton might well triumph in his victory in the field of intellectual combat.

But if his pamphlet could have put Charles the First's head on again, then, and then only, could it have been of real political service to his party.
Milton's loss of sight was accompanied by domestic sorrow, though perhaps not felt with special acuteness.

Since the birth of his eldest daughter in 1646, his wife had given him three more children--a daughter, born in October, 1648; a son, born in March, 1650, who died shortly afterwards; and another daughter, born in May, 1652.