CAESAR. No; you said, heap coals of fire on it. But I think that's a shame.
DOCTOR. I think so, too; it's more cruel and more cunning. (Pause.) Isn't it better to take some revenge? It heartens the other person, lifts the burden off him.
CAESAR. As you know more about it than I, why ask?
DOCTOR. Quiet! I'm not speaking to you. (Pause.) Very well. First cut off his head, and then.... We'll see.
CAESAR. It all depends on how he behaves.
DOCTOR. Yes. On how he behaves. Quiet. Get along.
(The STRANGER comes from the verandah: he seems excited but his manner betrays a certain resignation. CAESAR has gone out.)
STRANGER. You're surprised to see me here?
DOCTOR (seriously). I've long given up being surprised. But I see I must begin again.
STRANGER. Will you permit me to speak to you?