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!”