(The gatemen begin to work the gate-chains.)
FIRST SOLDIER. What do ye, dogs? Stop, and await the order of the lord Ozias.
GATEMEN (continuing to work the chains). Water! Water!
FIRST SOLDIER. Pull, then, dogs. If there is water and it is wet I will taste it. But if there is not water, I will slay the first soul that enters. (As the gates begin to open a little.) Hold! No wider!
Enter Haggith with two gourds.
(The gourds are snatched from her, and the men, including the First Soldier, drink.)
FIRST SOLDIER (as he drinks). Yea, it is indeed Haggith. Where is thy mistress, and whence comest thou, my beloved water-carrier, for thou art my beloved? (Haggith slaps his face.)
Enter Ozias, L.
OZIAS (furious). Why are the gates opened? What is this?
FIRST SOLDIER. Haggith, lord, with water that is stronger than wine. (Handing a gourd to Ozias to soothe him.)