Whither, Sire?
HEROD
Whither? Upwards!
JOHN
For thee there is no upwards. Thou bearest the times that are and were before thee, like an ulcerous evil, on thy body. Burnest thou not from all their poisonous lusts? Art thou not weighted by their unholy desires? And thou wouldst mount to the heights. Stay in the market-place and smile.
HEROD
Baptist, take care. Thy chains lie not far off.
JOHN
Let me be chained, Sire; I ask for nothing better.
HEROD