Second Woman: And thy mother, Bathsheba, was her heart likewise merry?
Solomon: My father rejoiced, but his rejoicing was naught in the measure with my mother's joy.
Second Woman: She would have grieved had'st thou been stolen from her?
Solomon: What mother would not? But, woman, to thy tale—
Second Woman: My tale is told. O son of Bathsheba, God hath given to thee an understanding heart. Let it read my sorrow; give me back my child.
Solomon (bewildered): Woman, I have not thy child.
Second Woman: Nay, but thy judge in Gibeon, for gold he hath rendered false judgment; for gold, he hath given my child to another woman.
Solomon: Thou canst prove this? (She makes a despairing gesture of denial.) (Solomon claps; the Soldiers enter.) The court of justice was held here this morn? (Soldier bows.) Bring hither the case of the child and the two women. (Soldiers salute and go. Solomon speaks sternly to the Woman.) If thou speakest truly, the child shall be given thee: but if thou hast sought to move me by a lying tale—; lo, I shall punish thee so thou shalt wish thou never had'st been born.
Second Woman (regarding him steadfastly): I have no fear, for God hath given to thee an understanding heart.
(The Judge waddles in.)