David. Need not lift her veil,
Or longer stay. The path she came is open.
Merab. I'm here—and here will speak! I've hither stolen,
Yearning—I say it—yearning—and I will.
David. These words I do not know.
Merab. Because you will not.
More all-devouring than a Moloch is
This love within me——
David. Love and you are twain,
As sun and Sheol.
Merab. False. I am become
For want of you as famine-wind, a wave
In the mid-tempest, with no rest, no shore.
David. I do not hear the unashamed words
Of one who has but recently another,
Adriel, wedded.
Merab. You refuse me, then?
David. I beg you but to cease.
Merab. Goaded, chagrined?
No, but this will I do. The Philistines,
For long at rioting within their walls,
Gather again and break toward Gilboa....