LUCIA
I am afraid, Cæsar. My people will be wondering where I am.
HELIOGABALUS
And a good joke on them, too. [He laughs elaborately] They'll think you are on your way to the lions—and here you are as safe as a bug in a rug—and converting the Emperor to this Christianity, as you call it. Now, about that Christian kiss you showed me—just how is it done?
LUCIA
[Pecking at him modestly and very gingerly] Like this.
HELIOGABALUS
[Disappointed, shaking his head] Um, kind o' short. Not like—but maybe—after a while, after a little while ...
LUCIA
[Bashfully, but with art] I'm afraid you won't respect me.