Methought I saw an angel on the sun Sit thronéd, whilst around the planets swayed, Each with its guiding spirit, that obeyed In duteous wise that lofty-visaged one; But on this earth it seemed two spirits fought A deadly combat, struggling hand to hand-- The GOOD and EVIL, over sea and land Locked in a strife with dreadful issues fraught. For as the calm-eyed ruler of each sphere Bore slowly past the battle-riven world, Firm in his mighty hand he held a spear Poised o'er his head, and ready to be hurled-- To dash this globe to fragments as it whirled, Should Evil's brow the wreath of victory wear.