Jephthah and Other Mysteries

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.