Stage Blocking (single line): [Enter SL, neutral stance facing C; beat 1] As I see that I have still to discuss the fit destinies of the two cities, the earthly and the heavenly, I must first explain, so far as the limits of this work allow me, the reasonings by which men have attempted to make for themselves a happiness in this unhappy life, {step forward to C on "happiness", open palms to audience, sustain eye contact}, in order that it may be evident, not only from divine authority, but also from such reasons as can be adduced to unbelievers, {turn 30° SR, extend right hand toward SR audience, slight nod}, how the empty dreams of the philosophers differ from the hope which God gives to us, {pause 1 beat; soften expression; lower gaze to hands then lift to audience on "hope"}, and from the substantial fulfillment of it which He will give us as our blessedness. {hold final pose; light shift to warm spotlight; exit SL on count 4}
Ear/Microphone (single line): [MIC ON; mic at chin level; start ~6" distance] As I see that I have still to discuss the fit destinies of the two cities, the earthly and the heavenly, I must first explain, so far as the limits of this work allow me, the reasonings by which men have attempted to make for themselves a happiness in this unhappy life, [short inhale before "happiness"; move 1" closer for intimate word], in order that it may be evident, not only from divine authority, but also from such reasons as can be adduced to unbelievers, [reduce sibilance on "unbelievers" by angling head; emphasize "also" with slight proximity], how the empty dreams of the philosophers differ from the hope which God gives to us, [increase warmth and proximity on "hope"; soften consonants to avoid plosives], and from the substantial fulfillment of it which He will give us as our blessedness. [hold microphone steady for final phrase; capture 1s room tone]
Voice Actor / Radio / Audiobook (single line): [Tone: measured, contemplative → growing assurance; tempo ~55–65 wpm; mark breaths and beats with slashes] As I see that I have still to discuss the fit destinies of the two cities, the earthly and the heavenly, / I must first explain, so far as the limits of this work allow me, / the reasonings by which men have attempted to make for themselves a happiness in this unhappy life, / (short, audible inhale) in order that it may be evident, not only from divine authority, (light emphasis on "divine") but also from such reasons as can be adduced to unbelievers, / (lift slightly on "unbelievers" to keep listener engaged) how the empty dreams of the philosophers differ from the hope which God gives to us, / (build warmth and gentle emphasis on "hope") and from the substantial fulfillment of it which He will give us as our blessedness. (final pause 0.8–1.2s; close with calm, resonant conviction)