That's the way: You always put it on me! When you have done something, you accuse me of something. Oh, what—
HELIOGABALUS
[Humouring her] But why go into that? You are—ill, and ought to be in bed. And besides, I have business. There is, for example, the matter of Rufinius' ear. It had better be attended to at once.
RUFINIUS
Oh, Majesty, Majesty!
PAULA
Rufinius is innocent. I drank the wine—all of it!
HELIOGABALUS
I believe you—but nevertheless, Rufinius lied to me. Can I afford to let it get about that it is safe to lie to the Emperor of Rome? Surely not. Now, go to bed and get a good night's rest and let me attend to Rufinius' ear. He is tired of waiting. The longer we put off the matter of his ear, the longer it will take to heal.
[Taking her arm he pushes her out]