Why should he be with her, to-day of all days?
He is the King’s attendant, not the Queen’s.
Ashobal.
True, but the Queen commanded him this morning
To write at her dictation; he will be
There until noon; but it is nearly noon.
Prophet.
We are discovered by this Jezebel.
And Pharmas has betrayed us.
Ashobal.
No, he is faithful to us. Five years since
This Jezebel once chided him in public
For breaking of a cup. He has remembered;
He swore to be revenged and means to be.
Now I say this: Come on the stroke of noon,
Here, to have speech with Pharmas and myself.
We may have news by then. If the worst happen,
We shall have time enough for flight at noon.
Prophet.
You may be right; pray Heaven that you be.
Ashobal.