Firm Israel’s heart, and mighty her hand,

Eternal the days of Jerusalem.

Jeremiah

[Rises from his knees. He stares blankly as he mutters in amaze] Ne’er shall … an enemy … circle … our wall?

The Mother

What sudden fear assails your soul?

What thought steals color from your cheek?

Jeremiah

[Still shuddering] Ne’er shall … an enemy … circle … our wall?

The Mother