Abimelech!—Is it true that Egypt offers an alliance? Draw your sword.—Up, march against Ashur.—Gather Israel’s forces.—We are ready.—We are ready.
Abimelech
[Speaks to the crowd from the top of the steps] Make ready, people of Jerusalem, for the hour of freedom is at hand.
Pharaoh-Necho has offered us the help of his armies. He wishes us to join him in breaking the might of Ashur, and we shall do it, people of Jerusalem.
The Crowd
On against Ashur.—War with Chaldea.—Hail Abimelech!
A Warrior
We shall drive them before us like sheep. They have grown soft in the houses of the women, and their king has never worn harness.
A Voice