William Preston Johnston - Socrates II lyrics

WHEN Socrates, he of the shabby robe, Had earned from Athens the unjust decree That sentenced him to d**h, because his probe Had touched its self love, Pity said, "Go free, Thy prison gates to-night unbarred shall be; Walk forth, and in some happier clime thy fame Will blossom yet to immortality, Nor can detraction visit thee with blame." "Nay , friends, have I not told you that there came Unto mine inmost soul a potent voice That bade me put all false conceit to shame And place the common welfare first; no choice Is left. For me the hemlock cup to take Is better far than Athens' laws to break."