HELIOGABALUS

The things necessary for your ceremony of holy marriage. I assume that you carry them with you. [The din increases] It's the New Year—and I turn over a new leaf!

LUCIA

[In astonishment; protesting] But, Cæsar—

HELIOGABALUS

Nonsense, my dear. Tomorrow it may be raining, or there may be a parade—[To SIMON] And now, Doctor, you may begin. Do I stand here?

[The din still increases]

LUCIA

[Swept off her feet] But, Cæsar, your other wives!