The Psalms of David in meeter: newly translated, and diligently compared with the originall text, and former translations, more plaine, smooth, and agreeable to the text, then any heretofore. ; Allowed by the authority of the General Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland, and appointed to be sung in congregations and families.

PSAL. CXL. To the chief musician, A Psalm of David. (Book 140)

LOrd, from the ill and froward man give me deliverance, And do thou safe preserve me, from the man of violence. VVho in their heart mischievous thingsLine 2 are meditating ever; And they for war assembled are continually together.

Much like unto a serpents tongueLine 3 their tongues they sharp do make;

And underneath their lips there lyes the poyson of a snake. Lord, keep me from the wickeds hands,Line 4 from violent men me save; VVho, utterly to overthrow my goings, purpos'd have.

The proud for me a snare have hid,Line 5 and cords, yea they a net Have by the way side for me spread, they grins for me have set. I said unto the Lord, Thou artLine 6 my God: unto the cry Of all my supplications, Lord, do thine ear apply.

O God the Lord, who art the strengthLine 7 of my salvation, A covering in the day of war my head thou hast put on. Unto the wicked man, O Lord,Line 8 his wishes do not grant, Nor further thou his ill device, lest they themselves should vaunt.

As for the head and chief of thoseLine 9 about that compasse me, Ev'n by the mischief of their lips let thou them covered be. Let burning coals upon them fall,Line 10 them throw in fiery flame, And in deep pits, that they no more may rise out of the same.

Let not an evill-speaker beLine 11 on earth established:

Mischief shall hunt the violent man till he be ruined. I know God will th'afflicteds causeLine 12 maintain, and poor mens right. Surely the just shall praise thy Name,Line 13 th'upright dwell in thy sight.