John the Baptist: A Play

_Herod. Vitellius. Marcellus_ (_and other Romans of the Legate and suite_), _Merokles, Gabalos, Jabad._

Herod. Welcome to my table, exalted Vitellius, who bringest on the soles of thy feet the sacred soil of Rome into my poor dwelling. Welcome to you also, ye who follow him, according to Rome's command. She, our august mother, but ordereth what my soul desireth.

Vitellius. Thou hast my thanks, excellent prince.

Herod. Repose now at thy pleasure, exalted one. [_They lie on the couches._]

Gabalos. [_Low._] Say, my brave Marcellus, how dost thou like this Jewish ear-wig?

Marcellus. It doth not find its way to our ears.

Herod. And if thou wilt consent to crown thy brow with this wreath, as our Lord and Master, I shall be able to persuade myself that I am thy guest, instead of thou being mine.

Vitellius. Thou art _Rome's_ guest, Highness. Thus I will accept what befitteth me. [_Puts on the wreath which a servant hands to him._]

Gabalos. There was a sting in that speech.

Herod. [_Quickly collecting himself._] My good Merokles, begin.

Merokles. [_Stands up and reads from a roll of parchment._]

"Cooled by Hebron's far-gleaming snow, The fiery soul, concealed in ice, Favours with its flickering smile Us the worshippers.

"So thou sendest forth twofold beams of silent light, So flames for us shoot forth from thy coldness, So we prize as sacred thy flickering smile, mighty Vitellius-- Till we----"

Vitellius. My dear friend, what is this man talking about?

Herod. Doth it displease thee, Exalted One?

Vitellius. It seemed to me that he called my name. In the case of his desiring a favour, it shall be immediately granted if he promises to keep silent for the future!

Gabalos. Oh, friends, what a success!

Vitellius. Nevertheless, thy peacock's liver is good, very good, my dear Herod.

Herod. Thou rejoicest me, Exalted Highness. Wilt thou not now command thy Libyan flute-players to come and charm thy ear?

Vitellius. My ear is obedient. Let them come.