SCENE IX
Vitellius, his suite, Herod, Herodias, Salome, Merokles, Gabalos, Jabad.
VITELLIUS
My friend, thy banquet has been somewhat disturbed. [As Herod stares at the door through which John has disappeared.] No matter what I say, he does not hear me.
HEROD
Exalted highness, pardon!
SALOME
[Has crossed over the stage and goes stealthily to the door on left. In great curiosity she draws back the curtain, and after gazing eagerly through it, reels backwards into the arms of Herodias. Outside, behind the middle curtain, an ever-increasing tumult and murmur of many voices has arisen.]
VITELLIUS
Bid the women to sit down. Thou hast an ill-conducted people. They brawl in the street while we dine.
HEROD
Are they already muttering about the Baptist? Gabalos, look to it, and tell them to be quiet.
GABALOS
It shall be done, Sire. [Exit.
SALOME
[Pointing to the door, the curtains of which are open.] Mother, see what they are bringing. See! [She rushes out.]
HEROD
[Descending the steps of the dais.] What does she want there?
HERODIAS
Sire, thou art of simple understanding. I advise thee to look the other way.
HEROD
What is she doing?
HERODIAS
She is dancing! She holds the charger with the Prophet's head high in her arms, and dances.
JABAD
See, she dances!
HEROD
So thou hast corrupted thy own flesh and blood. So thou wilt corrupt us all.
HERODIAS
[Smiling, shrugs her shoulders.]
MEROKLES
She sways. She will fall!
HERODIAS
[Goes out composedly.]
MEROKLES
The head is rolling on the floor!
MARCELLUS
Oh, horror!
HERODIAS
[Comes back supporting Salome in her arms.]
SALOME
Mother, where is the dish? Where is the head?
HERODIAS
Make obeisance. Speak thy thanks.
SALOME
[Before Herod.] Sire, I am a rose of Sharon. A flower of the valley ... Who would thank me should pluck me ... Oh, look at the head!
HEROD
Take the women away!
HERODIAS
[Curtseys, and leads, smiling; the half-swooning Salome off to right.]