She refuseth to come.
SALOME
[Between her teeth.] She refuseth! He saw the rose. He is picking it up ... as if he had never----There are more ... and more ... and more. [She scatters the roses down on him.]
SONG OF THE MAIDENS
[The following is accompanied by the harp, which, after playing a finale alone, dies away.]
I have entertained thee with myrrh and honey.
I bound sweet sandals on my feet.
From my waist I have loosened the girdle,
I have sung with the harp, thee to greet.
Now come, let us quench
The fire that consumes me ... Come!
Or thou from fear shalt blench.
For my soul will hate thee ... Come!
JOHN
[Has looked up astonished. The hail of flowers strikes him in the face. He shrinks back.] Who playeth with me?
SALOME
[Who has slowly descended the steps.] Master, I----