TIME: A few hours later than Act II, Scene III, the same night. The sole light is that of torches, and watchfires (off).
The gatemen are at the gates.
There is a knocking on the outside of the gates.
Enter First Soldier, running.
FIRST SOLDIER (to a gateman, who is climbing up in order to look over the top of the gates). Look not over, booby. Thy fool's face might meet the point of an Assyrian spear. (The gateman slips down quickly.)
(Renewed knocking.)
FIRST SOLDIER (shouting). None can enter the city till sunrise. And not then if I like not the aspect of his phiz.
HAGGITH (off). It is Haggith, servant of the lady Judith. Open the gates quickly, for I am become a woman of much consequence.
FIRST SOLDIER. Haggith? It is the voice of Haggith; yet it may also be devils. (To another soldier who has entered.) Run! Rouse the lord Ozias. (Exit soldier.)
HAGGITH. I have water with me. Many gourds! Fresh water! Cool water!