Belzebub monologue (Act 3) — Vondel's Lucifer

That grows apace and sweeps on toward us with A rush and roar from every firmament, 100 Like a vast sea aglow with radiant lights. Indeed, a third part of the Heavens embrace Our side, if not the half; for Michael's tide. On every hand, each moment swiftly ebbs. The half, even of the watch and of the chiefs That round the palace guard--of every rank. Of every Hierarchy some--have forsworn Their lord. Prince Michael, even as we. Behold Archangels, Cherubim, and Seraphim Our standards bearing. Even Paradise, 110 Made mournful by the sounds of woe, grows dim In hue, and its bright verdure fades. Wherever The eye doth look, there seem signs of decay; And up above a threatening thunder-cloud Doth seem to hang. This portent bodes our bliss. We need but to begin. Already doth The crown of Heaven rest upon thy brow.