To the dark Nations when Religion came,
All drest in Smiles; they saw the heav'nly Dame,
Till some stern Teachers of their Office proud,
Chose not to soften but affright the Crowd,
With gloomy Terrors fill'd the dusky Age,
And veil'd her Beauties in the mask of Rage:
Then bid the Hand-maids of Perdition rise,
Black Cruelty with fierce and flaming Eyes;
Distraction ravag'd on the publick Weal,
And Persecution wore the Robe of Zeal:
Deluded Faith espous'd the stronger Side,
And conquer'd Justice gave her Sword to Pride.