Perpetual banishment. Yet, lest they faint At the sad sentence rigorously urged (For I behold them softened, and with tears Bewailing their excess), all terror hide. If patiently thy bidding they obey, Dismiss them not disconsolate; reveal To Adam what shall come in future days, As I shall thee enlighten; intermix My covenant in the Woman’s seed renewed. So send them forth, though sorrowing, yet in peace; And on the east side of the garden place, Where entrance up from Eden easiest climbs, Cherubic watch, and of a sword the flame Wide-waving, all approach far off to fright, And guard all passage to the Tree of Life; Lest Paradise a receptacle prove To Spirits foul, and all my trees their prey, With whose stolen fruit Man once more to delude.”