Jochebed

He will soon be here. Have patience a while.

The Mother

No, no; he is there, but you are keeping him from me. My time is short. My limbs are cold …

[Jeremiah comes quietly into the doorway, and remains standing in doubt, his hands clenched, his head bowed as if he were carrying a heavy burden]

Ahab

Don’t throw yourself about so. He will be here anon.

[Catching sight of Jeremiah, he starts and stops speaking. Jochebed likewise preserves an anxious silence. For a few moments no one speaks in the darkened room]

The Mother

[Raising herself with difficulty] Why are you both silent? [She suddenly gives a cry of joy] Has he come? Is my Jeremiah here? Where are you, Jeremiah?