(_The soldier strolls forward. Twilight begins to fall_.)

(_Enter_ Haggith _from the house with more baggage_.)

HAGGITH (_to the soldier; curtly; not looking at him_). So thou hast no
water?

FIRST SOLDIER (_with genial freedom_). Yea, Haggith, we have still a
little.

HAGGITH. Then thou has lied to the governor?

FIRST SOLDIER. _Him_? (_With a jerk of the shoulder_!) _He_ knows! In
truth now, thinkest thou he would expect us soldiers to keep guard
without water? _He_ knows! But he is a great lord, and in seemliness he
asks for a lie, and that which he asks is given to him--in seemliness.

HAGGITH. But the officer raving as thou hast said with thirst?

FIRST SOLDIER. Ah! It is the business of a worshipful officer to scorn
deceit and to suffer.

HAGGITH. And all the people?

FIRST SOLDIER. The people are the people. But we soldiers are
soldiers--and must drink, or we cannot guard. (_Yawns_.) Eh! I could lie
down and snore for seven years, but I am appointed to watch all night.

HAGGITH (_suddenly caressing_). Sweet warrior! Would I could rest thee!