Zephaniah
The corpses of our brothers lie like dung in the streets. The Chaldeans are stripping the bodies of the slain; they have rifled the tombs of the kings of Judah; and for the purple vesture of Solomon they have cast lots; they have seized the bread from the holy table; and they have stolen the golden candlesticks from the walls.
The Elder
[Rending his garments] I can live no longer! Could I but tear my bowels as I tear my raiment.
Voices
Where is the power of God?—The covenant.—The promise.—Where are our leaders?—Jerusalem is lost.—My husband?—Whom have you seen?—What has become of Nahum?—What has become of …
Zephaniah
For many do you ask, and I can give but one answer for them all. Of the nobles of Judah, not one now looketh on the light of day.
Voices
All slain? All?—Impossible!—Abodassar?—Jehoiachin?—Hedassar?—Imre?—Nahum?