John the Baptist: A Play

_Vitellius, his suite, Herod, Herodias, Salome, Merokles, Gabalos, Jabad._

Vitellius. My friend, thy banquet has been somewhat disturbed. [_As Herod stares at the door through which John has disappeared._] No matter what I say, he does not hear me.

Herod. Exalted highness, pardon!

Salome. [_Has crossed over the stage and goes stealthily to the door on left. In great curiosity she draws back the curtain, and after gazing eagerly through it, reels backwards into the arms of Herodias. Outside, behind the middle curtain, an ever-increasing tumult and murmur of many voices has arisen._]

Vitellius. Bid the women to sit down. Thou hast an ill-conducted people. They brawl in the street while we dine.

Herod. Are they already muttering about the Baptist? Gabalos, look to it, and tell them to be quiet.

Gabalos. It shall be done, Sire. [_Exit._

Salome. [_Pointing to the door, the curtains of which are open._] Mother, see what they are bringing. See! [_She rushes out._]

Herod. [_Descending the steps of the dais._] What does she want there?

Herodias. Sire, thou art of simple understanding. I advise thee to look the other way.

Herod. What is she doing?

Herodias. She is dancing! She holds the charger with the Prophet's head high in her arms, and dances.

Jabad. See, she dances!

Herod. So thou hast corrupted thy own flesh and blood. So thou wilt corrupt us all.

Herodias. [_Smiling, shrugs her shoulders._]

Merokles. She sways. She will fall!

Herodias. [_Goes out composedly._]

Merokles. The head is rolling on the floor!

Marcellus. Oh, horror!

Herodias. [_Comes back supporting Salome in her arms._]

Salome. Mother, where is the dish? Where is the head?

Herodias. Make obeisance. Speak thy thanks.

Salome. [_Before Herod._] Sire, I am a rose of Sharon. A flower of the valley ... Who would thank me should pluck me ... Oh, look at the head!

Herod. Take the women away!

Herodias. [_Curtseys, and leads, smiling; the half-swooning Salome off to right._]