How hurtful was the choice of Lot, br Who took up his abode br Because it was a fruitful spot br With them who feared not God! br br A pris'ner he was quickly made, br Bereaved of all his store; br And, but for Abraham's timely aid, br He had returned no more. br br Yet still he seemed resolved to stay br As if it were his rest; br Although their sins from day to day br His righteous soul distressed. br br Awhile he stayed with anxious mind, br Exposed to scorn and strife; br At last he left his all behind, br And fled to save his life. br br In vain his sons-in-law he warned, br They thought he told his dreams; br His daughters too, of them had learned, br And perished in the flames. br br His wife escaped a little way, br But died for looking back: br Does not her case to pilgrims say, br Beware of growing slack? br br Yea; Lot himself could ling'ring stand, br Though vengeance was in view; br 'Twas mercy plucked him by the hand, br Or he had perished too. br br The doom of Sodom wilt be ours br If to the earth we cleave; br Lord quicken all our drowsy pow'rs, br To flee to thee and live.