2nd GUARD
(To ISHAK) Oh sir, they frequently eat their straw.
ISHAK
Chain them, chain them.
Ist GUARD
We do, my masters, but even then they strangle themselves in their fetters.
ISHAK
Strangle themselves in their fetters?
Ist GUARD
Do they not strangle themselves in their fetters, Mohamed.
2nd GUARD
(To ISHAK) I have known them, sir, to strangle themselves in their fetters.
ISHAK But, as you know, these two have a choice between a life with separation and a death with torment. Now surely they will choose life, and will hardly need a sentry to spear them away from the doorstep of eternity.
Ist GUARD
I should think so indeed, sir. But you never can tell with prisoners.
Prisoners are very obstinate, especially women, are they not Mohamed?
2nd GUARD
(To ISHAK) Female prisoners are very obstinate, sir.
ISHAK (With assumed heartiness) Well, none of us would require till sunset to make our choice, would we?