Scene + 

VI + 

Hadrian + 

What is wrong, Antiochus? Why have you returned, and with such a dejected air? + 

Antiochus + 

When you know the reason, you will be dejected too. + 

Hadrian + 

Come, what is it? + 

Antiochus + 

That little vixen whom you handed over to me to be tortured was first scourged in my presence, and I swear that not so much as the surface of her delicate skin was grazed. Then I had her cast into the fiery furnace which glowed scarlet with the tremendous heat. + 

Hadrian + 

Enough! Come to the point. + 

Antiochus + 

The flames belched forth, and five thousand men were burned to death. + 

Hadrian + 

And what happened to her? + 

Antiochus + 

You mean to Charity? + 

Hadrian + 

Who else? + 

Antiochus + 

She ran to and fro, playing in the fierce whirlwind of smoke and flame, and sang praises to her God. Those who watched closely said that three men dressed in white walked by her side. + 

Hadrian + 

I blush to see her again, as I have not been able to harm her. + 

Antiochus + 

She must perish by the sword like the others. + 

Hadrian + 

Let us use it then, and without delay. + 