Idali. Sitting behind a pillar in the temple, fast asleep. We might have passed her twenty times without perceiving her.
High-Priestess. Admirable!—Now both of you come hither. (She takes a hand of each, and looks steadfastly first at one, then at the other) You have both uttered falsehoods! You say that Cora was asleep behind a pillar in the temple, and you that she was under the palm-tree in the court of the temple. (Idali and Amazili hem, and cough, and look terrified and embarrassed) Which am I to believe?
Idali. (To Amazili) Silly girl, you have forgotten every thing.
Amazili. No, it is you who have forgotten.
Idali. No, indeed it is you.
Amazili. I am sure that I was bid to say under the shade of the great palm-tree.
Idali. I am sure I was bid to say behind the pillar.
High-Priestess. I was bid! and, I was bid!—What may all this mean? (Idali and Amazili hesitate) If you will not please to recollect yourselves now, I shall soon find a way to assist your memories.
Idali. (To Amazili.) This is your fault.