and went forth from his dwelling; the son of Haran, mindful of
wisdom, spake unto all that gathering of men:

(ll. 2467-2476) "Within my house two stainless daughters dwell.
(Neither of them yet has known a man.) Do now as I bid you and
forsake this sin. Them will I give you rather than that ye work
this shame against your nature, and grievous evil against the
sons of men. Take now the maidens and leave my guests in peace,
for I will defend them against you before God, if so I may."

(ll. 2477-2484) And all that multitude of godless men with one
accord made answer unto him: "This seemeth meet and very right:
that thou leave this land! An exile, from afar thou camest to
this country, desolate of friends, and lacking food. And now
wilt thou be judge over us, if so may be, and teach our people?"

(ll. 2485-2499) Then, as I have heard, the heathen leaders laid
hand on Lot and seized him. But his guests, the righteous
strangers, brought him aid, and drew him within his dwelling from
out the clutches of these cruel men. And straightway the eyes of
all those standing round about were darkened; and suddenly the
host of city-dwellers became blind. They might not storm the
halls, with savage hearts against the strangers, as they strove
to do, but stoutly the ministers of God withstood them. Lot's
guests had sturdy strength, and smote the host with vengeance.
Fairly the faithful ministers of peace spake unto Lot:

(ll. 2500-2512) "If thou have any son, or kinsman dear among this
people, or any friend of these maidens whom we here behold, lead
forth in haste from the city those dear to thee, and save thy