Who can stand against us?—We have overthrown all our enemies.—None can withstand us.—Death to him who despises our power.

[Messengers hasten from the palace]

The Crowd

[Thronging round them] Whither so fast?—What news do you bear?—Whom do you seek?—What’s afoot?

A Messenger

The king has summoned the council.

Voices

War.—He decides for war.—War.

Abimelech

Whom has he summoned?