[Gnashing his teeth.] Truly thou art ruled by a broken spirit. [After a little reflection.] Yet tell me, Baptist, when that other cometh, that other----Say, was it in His Name that thou didst not throw the stone at me?
JOHN
[Confused.] Sire, what dost thou ask?
HEROD
Was it in His Name? For if so, thy Jewish king shall not rob my nights of sleep. Ha! ha! Here, gaoler! [The gaoler comes.] The prisoner shall go in and out as he pleaseth, for he is not dangerous.
GAOLER
[Dumfounded, then in a low voice.] Sire, how shall my life be safe, if----
HEROD
And his disciples, who loiter about the gates. Let them in and out as often as he wishes.... Now, did this God's people ever know a more clement master than I? [Laughing, walks away.]