[Vociferating wildly] War! War upon Ashur!—Who is the speaker?—He is sold to the enemy.—Down with all traitors.—Israel shall rule the nations.—War, war!
[The voice of Jeremiah is drowned amid the general uproar. He is thrust aside, and Baruch has difficulty in protecting him. With redoubled energy the crowd continues to shout in an ecstasy around the king. Zedekiah stands awhile, still trying to find the one who had called on him to sheathe the sword. For a moment, indeed, he lowers his weapon, and seems to be looking round for help. But, amid fanatical cries of the populace, the gates are opened. After a moment’s further hesitation, Zedekiah raises his sword once more, and with earnest mien mounts the last steps and disappears into the temple]
RUMORS
Because ye speak this word, behold, I will make my words in thy mouth fire, and this people, wood, and it shall devour them. Jeremiah V, 14.
The same square in front of the temple and the king’s palace. Groups of idlers, men and women, loiter upon the steps, some sitting and some standing. In the streets and in the porch of pillars there is the usual coming and going of persons working and conversing.
A Man
[One of the larger group on the steps] I have it for certain that there has been a great battle between Nebuchadnezzar and Pharaoh.