Music. THE DAUGHTER OP HERODIAS dances.
HEROD. Oh, what was Miriam dancing with her timbrel, Compared to this one?
MANAHEM, aside.
O thou Angel of Death,
Dancing at funerals among the women,
When men bear out the dead! The air is hot
And stifles me! Oh for a breath of air!
Bid me depart, O King!
HEROD.
Not yet. Come hither,
Salome, thou enchantress! Ask of me
Whate'er thou wilt; and even unto the half
Of all my kingdom, I will give it thee,
As the Lord liveth!
DAUGHTER OF HERODIAS, kneeling.
Give me here the head
Of John the Baptist on this silver charger!
HEROD. Not that, dear child! I dare not; for the people Regard John as a prophet.
DAUGHTER OF HERODIAS.
Thou hast sworn it.
HEROD. For mine oath's sake, then. Send unto the prison; Let him die quickly. Oh, accursed oath!
MANAHEM. Bid me depart, O King!
HEROD.
Good Manahem,
Give me thy hand. I love the Essenians.
He's gone and hears me not! The guests are dumb,
Awaiting the pale face, the silent witness.
The lamps flare; and the curtains of the doorways
Wave to and fro as if a ghost were passing!
Strengthen my heart, red wine of Ascalon!