Ahab.
What should we hear, old ruffian from the desert?
Prophet.
The wings descending and the footsteps coming.
The vultures and the dogs coming for blood.
Listen. The vultures settle in the court,
And there are footsteps coming up the stair,
The footsteps of the dogs that come for blood;
For blood is coming upon this house, and I
Have told you that it comes; I am its herald.
Enter Jehu from in front, carrying armour. He comes on, stands motionless, then flings down a helmet; then, after a pause, a corselet; then, after a pause, a sword. Zakkur stands behind him.
Ahab.
What does your coming with these weapons mean?
Whose weapons are they? What has happened, Jehu?
Is it some challenge? Speak.
Jezebel.
I know that sword.
It’s Ahaziah’s sword. My son is dead?
(Jehu nods.)