JUDITH (_simply_). Perhaps you dismissed the people because it is not
meet for them to see all the workings of the mind which has authority
over them.

OZIAS (_warmly responsive_). Ah! Lady! In your wisdom and your
understanding you have comprehended what it is to be the governor of a
besieged city. You, alone!

JUDITH. This is a day memorable beyond all the days of Bethulia.

OZIAS. It is a day memorable beyond all the days of Bethulia--because
Judith, the widow of Manasses, has issued from her house and from her
secrecy, and because after long years she has lightened the city with
her countenance.

JUDITH (_smiling_). We hold converse with words, but the shadow of
destruction is over us, and our hearts are darkened, and we hide our
hearts in speech. Ozias, governor of Bethulia, show me your heart.

OZIAS. I dare not.

JUDITH. Dare! I am not afraid.

OZIAS. YOU are more beautiful than aforetime--were it possible.

JUDITH (_accepting the compliment_). And if I am?

OZIAS. That is what is in my heart! Behold my heart, and the depths of
my heart. Look deep, and deeper, and still you will see naught therein
but the beauty and the subtlety of Judith.