What think you of Messias and that tale The prophets tell?
Eliph. Well, may not prophets fail As much as any man? I hold such men No better than this dreamer back again. Once, as a child, I thought it otherwise, And deemed that all was holy, and the skies Crowded with angels, and the earth I trod All holy as the dwelling-place of God. And now! Why, I know better.... (Drinks.)
Nad. As for me, I’m with you. (Drinks.)
Uzz. So am I. The Sadducee Seems wisest of the lot. [They pledge one another. Knocking heard (R.). Why, who comes here? [He pauses. Then he goes to door (R.) impatiently, and opens it. A burst of music. Silence. He seems to listen. No, no! No room! Nor here, nor anywhere!... [Listens. I tell you, No! There’s not a bed to spare. [Listens.
Nad. Who’s that? (Uzz. begins to stare towards door, listening.)
Eliph. (after pause). The landlord’s out.... What’s that?... Why, then You’d best find shelter as you may. [Closes door; comes back. As he comes to seat, knocking. Again! [Rises angrily; goes to door, flings open. After pause— That’s no affair of mine! I tell you, Go. And find room where you may. Above, below, The place is packed. Be off! Be off, I say! [Half-closes door, listening. No; not for such as you. The host’s away, Up in Jerusalem. I’m master here; That’s my last word. [Bangs door; comes to seat. Knocking. He rises furiously. Here’s impudence, I swear! [Opens door once more. I’ll set the dogs upon you.... I don’t care.... [Pause. Yes, to the stable then, with ox and ass. [Bangs door; returns growling; sits.
Nad. Who were the knaves?
Eliph. That old man and the lass We saw up yonder.
Uzz. (who has been listening intently). Was there no one more? I could have sworn I heard them at the door— A multitude of footsteps.
Eliph. (hands trembling, head jerking). Bah! what stuff! The two were there. No more! And quite enough. [He drinks. The two stare.