For only the one who willeth exerciseth power. [As Herodias regards her suspiciously, she adds quickly.] I read that in the Scriptures, mother. I did not understand what it meant.
HERODIAS
Listen to me, thou sharpwits. A carpet of Indian wool will be spread here, there the Prince will sit with the foreign guests.... Let not thy foot touch the stone, raise not thy eyes.... Dance thy dance modestly, and when thou hast finished, wipe signs of shame from thy face; hearken narrowly to what the Tetrarch saith to thee. And if he should say, "Now ask of me, and----"
SALOME
What then, mother?
HERODIAS
Ask nothing.... Then look at him for the first time a long, smiling look, and ... ask nothing. After that thou mayest demand.
SALOME
[Attentive.] What shall I demand, mother? A gold hair-ornament, or shoes of velvet? No; I know what I'll demand--a mirror.
HERODIAS