Only one who knows not these butchers of the High Altar could believe you. HERODIAS Well, these are the terms [_in a low voice_]. If we were to promise never again to aspire in Rome to the sceptre of Judea [_scoffingly_], then they might consider---- HEROD And what answer didst thou make to such drastic, such---- HERODIAS I promised.... What else should I do?... for thee, as well as myself. HEROD [_Pointing to himself._] Even before this booty was thine, thou hast betrayed it? HERODIAS I fancied that I heard thee crying out just now for a sword. [_Smiling._] When thou art king, thou wilt, of course, kill all whom thou hast promised not to be king! That is the same thing as if thou hadst never promised it. HEROD [_Staring at her._] Woman! HERODIAS Believest thou still that I hurried here only for the sake of a kiss? HEROD I shudder at thee. But even if the priests be won over, there remains the people, the hydra-headed; thou knowest not the people. They once, it is said, hurled sacrificial victims at the head of their king, they slew Barachia's son between the Temple and the altar. And besides, dost thou not know that John the Baptist is in the town? HERODIAS The Baptist! Leave the Baptist to me. HEROD I warn thee, approach him only with a weapon in thy hand! HERODIAS [_Laughs._] SCENE VI _The same. Jabad and several servants._ JABAD Pardon, oh master, the lamb is ready. HEROD First, we will hear what the priests have to say if your mistress, _our_ mistress, so pleaseth. HERODIAS [_Assents, smiling._] [_Exeunt all._ SCENE VII _John, Miriam_ [_come through the lower door to right_]. MIRIAM Await her here, Rabbi.... What are thy commands to thy handmaiden? JOHN [_Shakes his head._] MIRIAM [_Kisses the hem of his garment._] [_Exit._ SCENE VIII _John_ [_left alone for a brief space_], _then Salome, and two of her damsels._ SALOME