John the Baptist: A Play

_John, Miriam._

Miriam. [_Shrinks against the wall near the door and looks shyly across at John, who broods with his back turned to her._]

John. [_Suddenly noticing her._] Thou, Miriam, art still here?

Miriam. Forgive me, master. I am a little afraid; for if I go homewards the guards at the gate will seize me.

John. But thou camest to me in the wilderness at night?

Miriam. Then no one knew with whom I associated, master.

John. Who art thou? Tell me about thyself. Who is thy father?

Miriam. I have no father--and no mother. The country is full of orphans like me. There are far too many. I have never asked anyone why.

John. And why didst thou go to the Palace as serving maid?

Miriam. They say that I once sat and played with pebbles on the threshold. And when evening came, they took me in. Since then I have belonged to the Palace, and know no better.

John. Thou servest me with zeal, Miriam. Why dost thou serve me?

Miriam. I know not why.

John. And thou servest me to no purpose--knowest thou that?

Miriam. [_Bows her head._]

John. Will they not punish thee?

Miriam. [_With a shudder._] They will ... I....

John. Speak!

Miriam. Master, what does it matter?

John. Miriam, is it also He Who shall come that thou servest?

Miriam. I cannot tell, master. When I see thee, I feel a longing for Him.... But if thou speakest to me of Him, I see only thee.

John. Ye children of men ... there is a rushing as of many waters in your souls.... Clear and muddy ... I shall gather all together in one great river, and I feel as if I should drown therein.

Miriam. Master, now I must go. Whether or no I served thee to no purpose, be gracious. Praise me, master.

John. I see thee sitting on the threshold again ... playing with thy life, and thou excitest my pity. ... Go, maid! Go, child! and [_He listens._]

Miriam. Master!