Actions and Reactions

All day long to the judgment–seat

The crazed Provincials drew—

All day long at their ruler's feet

Howled for the blood of the Jew.

Insurrection with one accord

Banded itself and woke:

And Paul was about to open his mouth

When Achaia's Deputy spoke

"Whether the God descend from above

Or the man ascend upon high,

Whether this maker of tents be Jove

Or a younger deity—

I will be no judge between your gods

And your godless bickerings,

Lictor, drive them hence with rods—

I care for none of these things!

"Were it a question of lawful due

Or a labourer's hire denied,

Reason would I should bear with you

And order it well to be tried

But this is a question of words and names

And I know the strife it brings,

I will not pass upon any your claims.

I care for none of these things.

"One thing only I see most clear,

As I pray you also see.

Claudius Caesar hath set me here

Rome's Deputy to be.

It is Her peace that ye go to break

Not mine, nor any king's,

But, touching your clamour of 'conscience sake,'

I care for none of these things!"