Herod—Herod—Herod—Herod, the mighty

Lord of the world!

(Beside the gate, the Captain of the Host strikes a deep-toned gong and calls aloud.)

CAPTAIN

Herod! Herod, the most High!

(HEROD comes forth with his Followers. Clad in long robe of Tyrian purple, he wears on his head a gold helmet. In his hand, he holds a great staff, surmounted by a globe of the world.)

HEROD

Who calls so loud at my gate?

CAPTAIN

I, Captain of the Host of Herod.