{JOAD.}
You've oft heard read the history of our kings:
My son, do you remember what strict law
Must be imposed on him who takes the crown?
{JOAS.}
Thus God Himself declares that a wise king
Does not rely on riches and on gold;
But fears the Lord his God; and ever hath
Before him His stern judgments, precepts, laws,
And crusheth not his brethren with oppression.
{JOAD.}
But of our kings, if you must copy one,
Which, from your choice, my son, would you be like?
{JOAS.}
David, who full of loyal love to God,
Appears the type most perfect of great kings.
{JOAD.}
Then, in their riot, you'd not imitate
The faithless Joram, godless Ochoziah?
{JOAS.}
O my father!
{JOAD.}
Continue, say what you think.
{JOAS.}
Whoe'er resembles, may he die like them.
_(Joad prostrates himself at his feet)._
My father, in what state are you before me?
{JOAD.}