[Instantly they begin to take off their outer garments and let down their hair]
HELIOGABALUS
[In alarm] What are you doing?
PAULA
[Grimly] Getting ready to go to bed. We are sleepy.
HELIOGABALUS
But, my dear—look, there is Rufinius still in the room!
[The wives glance at RUFINIUS, scream and try to hide themselves. RUFINIUS, much embarrassed, ducks out of the door]
PAULA