[The Doorkeeper is thrust aside]

Doorkeeper

Help, help!

[Part of the mob disappears through the doorway, and from within is heard the noise of doors being broken down with axes. Those who remain on the steps are tense with excitement and impatience]

Voices

[From within] The dogs have lowered him into the pit.—They were afraid of him.

Voices

[From the steps] He is a holy man.—He is the chosen of the Lord.—Jeremiah will save us all.

A Woman

[Frenzied with excitement] He stretched forth his hand and cried, Peace. God’s fire breathed from his lips. His brow shone like that of an angel. He will save us.