Up into Heaven from Paradise in haste The Angelic guards ascended, mute and sad For Man; for of his state by this they knew, Much wondering how the subtle Fiend had stolen Entrance unseen. Soon as the unwelcome news From Earth arrived at Heaven-gate, displeased All were who heard; dim sadness did not spare That time celestial visages, yet, mixed With pity, violated not their bliss. About the new-arrived, in multitudes, The ethereal people ran, to hear and know How all befell. They towards the throne supreme Accountable made haste to make appear With righteous plea their utmost vigilance, And easily approved; when the Most High Eternal Father, from his secret cloud Amidst, in thunder uttered thus his voice: