The House of Rimmon: A Drama in Four Acts

by Henry Van Dyke

Give her to me who gave me back to thee;

And I will lead thine army to renown

And plant thy banners on the hill of triumph.

But if she dies, I die with her, defying Rimmon.

[Cries of "Spare them! Release her! Give us back our Captain!" and "Sacrilege! Let them die!" Then silence, all turning toward the King.]

BENHADAD:

Is this the choice? Must we destroy the bond

Of ancient faith, or slay the city's living hope!

I am an old, old man,--and yet the King!

Must I decide?--O let me ponder it!