John the Baptist: A Play

JAEL [_With a child at her breast._]

[_Two other children and several women standing near door on left listening to a psalm sung by men's voices, which is heard in subdued strains coming through the door._]

The Boy. What are they singing now, mother?

Jael. [_Pale and troubled._] They sing the great Hallelujah, my child.

The Boy. Is the prophet singing with them, mother?

Jael. That I cannot hear, my child. [_Two more women come through middle door._]

First Woman. Jael, we have heard that the Great Prophet eateth the passover in thy house. Wilt thou permit us to see him?

Jael. Come in!

ONE OF THE OTHER WOMEN

That is he, the last there on the left.

First Woman. He that sitteth there looking so heavy of spirit?

THE SECOND WOMAN

I should be frightened of him. [_The singing has meanwhile ceased._]

First Woman. They say that he hath come into the town to judge Herodias. Is that so, Jael?

Jael. I know not.

The Boy. Mother, see, they are now drinking the fourth goblet. They will be here directly.

First Woman. Hath he spoken a blessing over the fourth goblet?

SECOND WOMAN

No; Josaphat spake it.

First Woman. See, they are standing up!

Another. Are they coming hither, Jael?

Jael. That is the couch on which he will rest.

SEVERAL

Then farewell, Jael.

Jael. Farewell! [_They hurry out._]