SCENE VI
The same. John [led in by two armed men].
HEROD
I have summoned thee, Baptist. I am sorry for thee. Prepare thyself, for the evening of thy days is come.
JOHN
I am ready, Sire.
HEROD
Understand me. I am truly sorry. But thou must meet death. Now, on the spot.
JOHN
[After looking searchingly towards the door.] Sire, grant me a respite.
VITELLIUS
Thy hero doth not appear to be all too ready. A little more and he would whimper.
HEROD
Baptist, wherefore dost thou want this respite?
JOHN
I have sent out messengers and await their return.
HEROD
To whom hast thou sent these messengers?... Thou art silent.... As I said before. I am from my heart sorry. So much might have been made of thee.... Still ... [He shrugs his shoulders.]
JOHN
[Holding out his arms distressed.] I beseech thee, Sire!
VITELLIUS
Did not I tell you? All kinds of people struggle to live, only the Roman understands how to die.
HEROD
Thou must ask the maiden, Baptist. Know that in her hands rests what chance thou hast of the thing called life.
SALOME
Master, now see'st thou how powerful I am? Now ask me! Ask me!
HERODIAS
[Prompting her, behind.] If he does ask, laugh at him.
SALOME
Perhaps, but who knoweth what my heart desireth?... Now, master, why dost thou not beg?
JOHN
Maiden ... I ...
SALOME
There is the stone floor, see! The stone longs for the touch of thy knees.
[Pause.]