Thank you, Nullius. Now take ink and paper and sit down near me, by the table; bring me my old counting-board.... As everything I am about to say is very important, I ask you to write it correctly and to make no errors—we shall give an account of every word before God. I ask you all to rise and listen attentively, striving to understand the great words which I am about to utter.
Sternly.
Rise, Rosa.
SARAH.
God, have mercy on us! What are you going to do, David?
DAVID.
Be silent, Sarah. You will come with me.
ANATHEMA.
Ready.
All listen, standing.