(Samuel lies down; presently he rises and kneels.)
Samuel: Speak, Lord, for thy servant heareth.
(There is a pause while Samuel listens. Eli turns toward him eagerly, then calls.)
Eli: Samuel, my son! (Samuel goes to him slowly.) What is this thing the Lord hath spoken to thee? I pray thee, hide it not.
Samuel (reluctantly): He said—he said—the Lord hath said: Behold, I will judge the house of Eli forever, because his sons did bring a curse upon themselves, and he restrained them not. Master, what did he mean?
Eli (slowly and mournfully): It is the Lord! Let him do what seemeth unto him good. (He raises his arms to heaven.)
Shouts Outside: News! News for the priest!
Eli: What meaneth the noise of this tumult?
(Three Soldiers run in.)