The Messenger
Imre, the oldest burgher; Nahum, the steward. To you also the summons goes forth.
Abimelech
Waverers and wiseacres are to be my fellow councilors; men who weigh their words overmuch and shrink from deeds. But I have my sword with me, and I will cast it from me if I may not draw it against Ashur. Yours is the hour, people of Jerusalem; I fight in your behalf.
The Crowd
Hail Abimelech.—Hail Abimelech, hail soldier of God.—Hail!
[Abimelech hastens into the palace]
Follow him, follow him! The king shall hear our voices. Let us thunder our will beneath the windows of his palace.
Zebulon