HAGGITH. Then thou has lied to the governor?
FIRST SOLDIER. Him? (With a jerk of the shoulder!) He knows! In truth now, thinkest thou he would expect us soldiers to keep guard without water? He knows! But he is a great lord, and in seemliness he asks for a lie, and that which he asks is given to him—in seemliness.
HAGGITH. But the officer raving as thou hast said with thirst?
FIRST SOLDIER. Ah! It is the business of a worshipful officer to scorn deceit and to suffer.
HAGGITH. And all the people?
FIRST SOLDIER. The people are the people. But we soldiers are soldiers—and must drink, or we cannot guard. (Yawns.) Eh! I could lie down and snore for seven years, but I am appointed to watch all night.
HAGGITH (suddenly caressing). Sweet warrior! Would I could rest thee!
FIRST SOLDIER (startled by the change in her demeanour). Haggith! Thou art marvellously and desirably changed.
HAGGITH. I am practising to thy profit for that which lies before me and my mistress.
FIRST SOLDIER. What meanest thou?