Eliakim, Pasur. First, second, third common soldiers.

PASUR

[As he comes forward glances anxiously at the soldiers, who sit in front of guard-room.] Neighbour, neighbour, dost thou not hear me?

ELIAKIM

[Sitting outside his shop reading a parchment] It is written that whosover disturbeth a man when he is reading the law shall forfeit his life.

PASUR

Thou readest the law?

ELIAKIM

Knowest thou not that I read the law day and night?

PASUR