JEPHTHAH. 4!
To give Thee thanks, nor take ungratefully
This first of favours from the Hand Divine.
SOLDIERS.
A noble vow: and God is glad thereat.
PROPHET.
I charge you in the name of God, go not !
‘I see a mischief fallen on your souls
Most bitter. Aye! an evil day is this
If ye go forth with such a sacrifice,
And vows most hideous in their consequence.
SOLDIERS.
It is the prophet of the Lord.
JEPHTHAH.
Possessed
By Baal; scourge him hence; he lies, for God
With powerful proof and many lightnings came
Devouring up the offering at the altar.
PROPHET.
O Jephthah, it is thou on whom it falls,
The sorrow grievous as thy life is dear.
A SOLDIER.
He is the prophet
of the Baalim.
We have enough of such: in God’s name, home!
[Stabbing him.