The final vision wrought a fierce revolt In Saul from that relenting which, before, The earlier visions almost made him feel. As with a mortal gripe, his vise-like will Clutched at his heart and held it fast and hard. Scorning to be diverted from his path Because, forsooth, the meddling Shimei Pointed it out to him offensively, Saul moved at once to go to Bethany. Seven servitors he chose, strong men whom use Had, hand and heart, seasoned to such employ-- With these a guide--and started on his way. Again the moon shone, as the yesternight, And flooded heaven and earth with glory mild. But her mild glory now was a rebuke To human passion, not a balm to pain. With swords and staves armed, as that night came they Who looked for Jesus in Gethsemane-- The needless lamps and torches in their hands With flare and smoke affronting the moonlight-- They marched, those seven, following the guide with Saul. At first these chattered lightly as they walked, But soon the stern, stark, wordless mood of Saul, And his grim purpose in his pace expressed, Urgent and swift, taxing their utmost strength To follow and not fall behind, quite quelled The social spirit in all, and on all went In sullen silence like their chief. Like him, Insensibly each moment more and more, While thought and feeling they shut strictly up Within them from all vent in speech, they these Changed to brute instinct of vindictiveness; Insensibly, like him, with every step Of vehement ongoing, vehement Propulsion gathered they in mind and will To reach and grapple with their task. So on And up with speed they pressed toward Bethany. At Bethany, meanwhile, the flock in fold Abode the coming of those prowler wolves-- Unweeting, in sad sense of safety lulled. The sisters, with the brother Lazarus, Had to Ruth's house at eve repaired; they there With Rachel sat together, in the court Under the open sky, and spake with Ruth, Or spake for Ruth to hear, comforting her.