Forgive me, neighbour; accuse me not. I sinned out of ignorance.... I was in fear of the soldiers who are quartered yonder ... but I am going in. [Slinks back to his shop.]
FIRST SOLDIER
[To the second who sharpens his sword.] Marcus, wherefore handiest thou thy blade with such terrific zeal? There is naught to hew down in there. These damned Judeans have had enough. They'll rebel no more.
SECOND SOLDIER
Who can tell? Since that woman entered there yesterday, my nostrils have scented bloodshed. Everything is upside down in Herod's house, and your so-called princes are ticklish subjects.
FIRST SOLDIER
Here in Judea they have none; so we are masters.
SECOND SOLDIER
We are masters everywhere, with or without a Herod.
FIRST SOLDIER