David and Saul

When David fled from Saul oppress'd,
Who should have held the Shepherd dear,
He carried Patience in his breast,
And Conscience light, a heavenly Guest;
He fear'd not, nor had Cause of fear.

But, when he fled the holy Place
In horror from his rebel Son,
He carried Terror and Disgrace;
Nor could a gleam of Comfort trace
In all the battles he had won.

But, as upon his Throne he shook,
With present Love and Glory crown'd,
The one stern word the Prophet spoke
At once into his Bosom broke
To fright, alarm him, and confound.

Thus injur'd, I my Peace retain
And feel from Guilt and Terror free;
But, should I injure Man again,
I should in fear and Dread remain,
Tho' cheer'd with wealth and blest by thee.