[With a laugh of rage and fear.] Are their trumpets already sounding on the road? Hath the great curse already reached the door?
HERODIAS
Thou art wrong, my friend. Only a little blessing scratches at the door.... If it pleaseth thee, let it come in.
HEROD
Thou dreamest.
HERODIAS
Listen to me! Why did I come before thee in haste to inhabit this empty house?... Because every hour since I came I have been negotiating with the priests----
HEROD
Thou?
HERODIAS