punishes the murderer.

{ATHALIAH.}

I understand. But what do all the people
Enclosed within that place?

{JOAS.}

They praise, and bless the Lord.

{ATHALIAH.}

And does He wish that one should always pray
And meditate.

{JOAS.}

All deeds profane are banished from His temple.

{ATHALIAH.}

What are your pleasures, then?

{JOAS.}

Sometimes unto the high priest I present
Either the salt or incense at the altar:
I hear them sing of God's unbounded greatness,
I see the sumptuous order of His rites.

{ATHALIAH.}

Alas! have you no pastimes more delightful?
I pity the sad fate of one like you.
Come to my palace, see my splendour there.

{JOAS.}

I! I should lose the memory of God's blessings!

{ATHALIAH.}

No. I would not constrain you to forget Him.

{JOAS.}

You do not pray to Him.

{ATHALIAH.}

But you can pray to Him.

{JOAS.}

But I should see another god invoked.

{ATHALIAH.}

I have my god to serve, and you have yours.
They both are powerful gods.

{JOAS.}

Mine must be feared, for He alone is God,
And yours is nothing, Madam.

{ATHALIAH.}

Pleasures, near _me_, will seek you out, in crowds.

{JOAS.}

The blessings of the wicked pass away,
As doth a torrent

{ATHALIAH.}

The wicked! Who are they?

{JOSABET.}

Pray, Madam! excuse a child.

{ATHALIAH}

I like to see how you are training him.
At length, Eliacin, you have amused me;
You're, doubtless, not an ordinary child.
You see I am a queen, without an heir:
Cast off these garments, quit this menial trade,
And all my riches I will share with you.
Try the conclusion of my promises:
Beside me at my table, everywhere,
I promise you shall sit as my own son.

{JOAS.}

As your own son?

{ATHALIAH.}

Yes, would it please you?

{JOAS.}

Ah what a father I should leave, and for--

{ATHALIAH.}

Well!

{JOAS.}

What kind of mother!

{ATHALIAH.}

His memory's faithful; and in all he says
I recognise your animus and Joad's.
Behold, how here, corrupting simple youth,
You both employ the peace I leave you in!
Their hate and fury you already f