Copyright 2003 By Eugene Schwartz millennialchild.com

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CAST OF CHARACTERS

Lucia, a Patrician Roman maiden Ebria Versacia Maxima, a Roman matron Pernicus, servant to Lucia Nisia Armania Maxima, sister to Ebria Marius, twin brother to Lucia Trivia Botoxia Maxima, sister to Ebria & Nisia Noxio, Master of Ceremonies in Nero's Court Solidus Vespasian, a Roman general Nero, Emperor of Rome Flavius, a Roman soldier Mordecai, a Pharisee and shepherd Savitra, an Indian prisoner. Ashanid, a Persian prisoner Sibia Placerea, a Roman maiden Hab-buk, an Egyptian prisoner. Ignavia Effluvia, friend to Sibia Damocles, a Greek prisoner Roman Legionnaires Sacred Dancers Acrobats at Nero's court Courtiers of Nero Soldiers of the Praetorian Guard Dancers of Remembered Dreams

The play's action takes place in Rome and Judea between the years AD 61 and AD 64.

Scene One: Villa Tullia, in Rome, AD 61. Scene Two: The Same. Scene Three: The Outskirts of Jerusalem, AD 62. Scene Four: The Palace of Nero, Rome, AD 63.

Intermission

Scene Five: Villa Tullia, AD 63. Scene Six: Villa Vespasia, outside of Rome, AD 64. Scene Seven: The Faex Cupae, a Roman prison, later that day.

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ROMA / AMOR Scene One [Rome, AD 61. The Villa Tullia, home of the Patrician twins MARIUS and LUCIA, both of whom are twenty-eight years old. LUCIA is anxiously pacing about the portico of the villa]. LUCIA [Calling offstage]:

Pernicus! Pernicus! P E R N I C U S! Oh, where can that good-for-nothing be! This happens every time! PERNICUS! [She paces about again.]

It already grows dark and still that servant does not appear! PERNICUS appears at the other end of the portico. His left leg is bandaged and he is limping heavily.] PERNICUS:

Oh, oh, my Lady Lucia ... [LUCIA runs over to her servant.] LUCIA:

Pernicus! You are injured! You poor thing-- Oh, whatever happened? [LUCIA begins to attend to his leg.] PERNICUS:

As you instructed, I went to the Forum to learn if your brother's legion was to return to Rome tonight. LUCIA:

What did you learn? PERNICUS:

I grew so excited at the news that I had to run back to tell you — LUCIA:

Tell me what? What is the news? PERNICUS:

In my haste I slipped and fell on the Via Pila — I lay in great pain for some time. I believe that I may have bruised my patella — LUCIA:

But what did you learn? Has my brother arrived? PERNICUS:

Fortunately, Helia, one of the Vestal Virgins, was returning from her service at the

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Temple and saw my plight. She kindly applied the bandaging and assisted me home. LUCIA [Exasperated]:

And what of Marius? Has he arrived? Will he be here tonight? PERNICUS [Scratches his head]:

My Lady Lucia ... so great was the shock of my fall that ... why ... I have completely forgotten the news that I learned! LUCIA [Picks up a vase and holds it over PERNICUS' head]

If one shock made you forget, then surely a second shock will help you to remember! You slothful, foolish, incompetent -- PERNICUS (Edging oft]:

Oh, my Lady — do not squander your precious vase on this unworthy head! [LUCIA pursues him around the room, while he dodges behind columns to elude her.] LUCIA:

Your leg has healed miraculously! PERNICUS:

Necessity is the brother of intention! Help! Soldiers of Rome, come to my aid! [A flourish of trumpets is sounded offstage] LUCIA:

That is the flourish of Marius' legion! He has arrived! [MARIUS enters, in full armor. He and LUCIA stare at one another for a moment.] MARIUS:

Beloved sister! LUCIA

Beloved brother! [They run towards one another to embrace. As LUCIA throws her arms around her brother, she drops the vase and it shatters.] PERNICUS:

Oooh, my ear drum is too sensitive to absorb such loud sounds, so now I have a headache to add to my troubles ... I'd best take to my bed ... [He leaves quietly.]

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Scene Two [Later that evening. Another room in the villa. MARIUS and LUCIA are dining together.] LUCIA:

Although it grows late, I know that I could stay up all night to listen to your stories of the wars in Gaul. Oh, Marius, being a Roman maiden is so dull! I can't hear enough of your stirring tales of valor and battle. But we must retire soon, and there will be months stretching before us-time enough for you to finish your telling. MARIUS:

Not months, dear sister, only days. LUCIA:

What do you mean, only days? MARIUS:

Our legion has returned to Rome only so that our armor may be repaired, new weapons forged, and new soldiers recruited. I have been promoted to the rank of Princeps, and my Commander and I will in three days embark for Jerusalem. LUCIA:

And who is your new Commander? MARIUS:

Solidus, son of Vespasian, is my Primus Pilus. Do you remember him from my school days? He was but a few years my senior, and would often visit us after school was -- [LUCIA turns away.] MARIUS:

-- But Lucia, you are blushing! Ah, now I recall! You always had a place in your heart for Solidus, didn't you? LUCIA:

No less a place than you have for his cousin, Lady Sibia Placerea. Have you heard from her lately? MARIUS:

Not since the Lupercal, when she spurned my proposal. But enough of her! Solidus, whom you so admire, is said to be the finest commander in the Roman army. Indeed, I'm told that to serve as his princeps is the dream of many a young Roman officer, and I know that I should be bursting with enthusiasm for my new post And yet -- LUCIA: — And yet?

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MARIUS: And yet — I grow weary of a legionnaire's life. LUCIA [Incredulous]:

You — grow weary — of a legionnaire's life? MARIUS:

Think of what it will be like in Judea, my sister: from morning until evening, shouting out commands to mindless soldiers LUCIA [Warmly]:

Forming those slack bodies into a unified force of pointed power, one will, one goal! MARIUS:

--Endlessly tramping, tramping, tramping over leagues of desert wilderness, sand blowing into your burning eyes, sand choking up your dry, parched mouth -- LUCIA [With greater warmth]:

--defying the sun, subduing the sands, until at last an oasis appears, swaying palms that drip down dates, cool water gushing forth from a spring -- MARIUS:

-Marching, marching, marching through the crooked streets of Jerusalem, surrounded by a barbarian rabble, holding your nose against their stench, closing off your ears to their harsh and babbling tongues -- LUCIA [Enthusiastically]:

--Jerusalem! City of moonwhite walls and sungold domes, exotic markets brimming with jewels and silk and sandalwood, the measured music of a million mouths at prayer! MARIUS [Dejected]: The life of a soldier of Rome ... LUCIA [Jumps up, elated]: The life of a soldier of Rome! [MARIUS and LUCIA stare at one another for some time, as though reading each other's mind. LUCIA smiles slightly, then puts her right index finger to her mouth.] MARIUS [Nervously]: Lucia ... LUCIA [Dreamily]:

Hmmmm?

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MARIUS: Lucia - I know that gesture. When we were younger, it meant that you were hatching

a plan -and it usually meant trouble! [LUCIA paces up and down the room with determination, oblivious to MARIUS who tries to get her attention.]

MARIUS:

Lucia .. Lucia! You must listen to me! No plans, no schemes, please! I am happy to be a Roman soldier--forget the rest, Lucia! [LUCIA comes to herself.] LUCIA:

What if... what if I served as Princeps in your place? MARIUS:

Lucia, you are mad! Soldiering is hard, muddy, bloody work - MEN'S work! LUCIA:

But you've told me yourself that what you do now is mostly to give commands ... MARIUS:

Y-e-e-s, that's true, but -- LUCIA:

And we still look alike! Why, put your armor on me and I'll look more the part of Marius than you do. MARIUS:

I won't even hear of it . . . . I – I - I'm going to take a walk! [He heads for the doorway but LUCIA intercepts him.] LUCIA:

Think of it, my darling brother! I'll be able to escape the dull life of a Roman maiden, travel to Judea and spend every day in the presence of Solidus, the man I adore. Imagine! The sound of those marching feet -- the clamor of battle -- the sweet taste of victory! Vae victis! Woe to the vanquished! MARIUS:

But - but - how can I send a helpless girl to the Galilee garrison? Even an officer has to defend himself now and then! LUCIA: Marius, recall how often you were unable to find a boy who was your peer in size and strength and asked me to be your sparring partner?

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MARIUS: We were but children then ...

LUCIA:

No matter! [She takes down old wooden practice swords and shields from the wall.]

Here are the old wooden swords and shields we used in those years. Come — give it a try! MARIUS:

Lucia, you are mad! [LUCIA thrusts the weapon into her brother's hand and rattles her sword against her shield.] LUCIA:

To arms, Roman soldier, to arms! [MARIUS reluctantly raises his shield, hardly defending himself, until LUCIA attacks with vehemence and throws him back.] MARIUS [Angered]:

You little brat! I'll teach you a lesson! LUCIA [Laughing]:

That's more like it! [They fight now in earnest.] MARIUS:

Don't think I'll show mercy! LUCIA:

You'd have to win before I'd allow you to show mercy! [They parry more, until LUCIA hits the sword out of her brother's hand, forces him down and places her foot on his neck, gladiator-style.] LUCIA:

Vae victis! Ha, ha, ha! [MARIUS rises and angrily dusts himself off. He holds his wrist and winces in pain.] LUCIA [Rushing up to him]:

Oh, my brother – my dear one -- you are hurt!

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MARIUS: No, it is nothing! . . . .

LUCIA: Here, let me rub it — Oh, Marius, now you are angry with me! I'm sorry to have hurt you! MARIUS: What hurts me most is that you've proved your point: if there is any maiden in Rome who could command a legion, it has to be you — though I pity poor Solidus who will have his hands full with such a firebrand as his second-in-command. LUCIA:

Then you will let me go in your place! MARIUS: I suppose that Judea is a quiet enough place. Now and then there's some grumbling over taxes or temples, and a would-be prophet arises out of the rabble to incite a small rebellion, but nothing much comes out of it. No, Jerusalem is just a dull and desolate little town, destined to be forgotten by times to come. Nothing ever happens there! Within two years I — that is, you — could return to Rome and still be in one piece. [LUCIA throws her arms around her brother and jumps with joy.] MARIUS:

I insist on one condition only. You must take Pernicus with you. In case there is any trouble, he is to communicate with me immediately! LUCIA:

If he doesn't stab himself with his pen while he writes to you! MARIUS [Laughing]:

But what about me? I don't plan to disguise myself as you and while away two years' time in spinning and cooking! LUCIA [Thoughtfully]

Hmmmm . . . . I have it! You can spend the time with your beloved, Sibia Placerea . . MARIUS:

That would be a dream come true! But how could it come about? LUCIA: Sibia has just begun building herself a new villa, close to the Forum. With all the other construction that the Emperor Nero has underway, however, it is dreadfully difficult for her to find skilled craftsmen. Pernicus knows the foreman there. He can present you as a skilled stonemason, fresh from the provinces, one Petrus by name. For the next year you'll be able to look upon your beloved Sibia every day. [LUCIA raises her nose in a conceited way.]

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And perhaps now and then she'll even look at you! MARIUS: You little — [He picks up his sword and chases her around the room.] LUCIA [Laughing]:

Help, help, oh, help a Roman maiden in distress! [In answer to LUCIA'S cries, PERNICUS suddenly appears. MARIUS does not see him, but accidentally swats him hard with the side of his sword PERNICUS [Falls down]:

Oh, ow, ow! Is that any way to greet me, my Master, after so long an absence? Ow, ow! MARIUS:

Oh, Pernicus, forgive me! Lucia, you and your endless pranks! LUCIA [Runs over to PERNICUS]:

Pernicus, you are hurt! [They raise PERNICUS to his feet.]

Is it the same leg? PERNICUS [Takes a few steps]:

No, it is the other one. At least my pain is balanced now. It feels as if the flat surface of the sword inflicted a bruise on the lower — MARIUS (Laughs]:

Only because I know Pernicus is there to protect you do I allow you to go to Judea! PERNICUS:

Judea? Lucia goes to Judea? And with me? [Raises his right hand, index finger pointed sententiously] A complication devoutly to be wished!

MARIUS [Slaps his head in exasperation]:

Lucia, why did you insist on teaching Pernicus to read? LUCIA:

I thought he was only looking at the pictures! [Shrugs] We must all retire now, but tomorrow, Pernicus, we will have much to tell you.

[Curtain.]

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Scene Three [One year later. A pasture at the foot of the Mount of Olives, not far from Jerusalem. Roman soldiers of the Tenth Legion are marching in formation. A snare drum plays first, then horns. Soldiers march into the hall in three groups, each stanza singing separately and joining voices for the chorus. The song is set to the tune of the United States Marine Anthem, "From the Halls of Montezuma"] Group One:

From the walls of Carthage City To the shores of Pompeii, We will conquer without pity 'Till our foes are on their knees. We will loot and we will plunder, We'll drive thousands from their homes, Let the world weep, wail, and wonder, We're the legionnaires of Rome!

Group Two: We will trade you blood for oil (olive oil!) We will tax you 'till you gasp, And we won't cease from our toil, 'Till the whole world's in our grasp.

Groups One & Two: We will burn and we will pillage While you stand and blankly stare You'll be driven from your village By the Roman legionnaires!

Group Three:

There are none more enterprising, None so quick to pick a fight, And we won't stop globalizing, 'Till we've shown that might makes right.

Groups One, Two & Three: We will loot and we will plunder, We'll drive thousands from their homes, Let the world weep, wail, and wonder, We're the legionnaires of Rome!

A VOICE OFFSTAGE: Legions, halt! [The soldiers engage in stylized swordplay.]

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A VOICE OFFSTAGE: At ease, men! [As the command is heard repeated up and down the lines, soldiers begin to lay down their swords and shields, drink, wipe their brows, etc.] FIRST SOLDIER: Have you heard the news? SECOND SOLDIER:

About Marius Tullius, you mean? THIRD SOLDIER:

What is it? FIRST SOLDIER:

Solidus is promoting Marius again, giving him equal command over our Legion. FOURTH SOLDIER:

I say that's good! FIFTH SOLDIER:

I'm not surprised. Since Marius joined us in Judea, he and Solidus are inseparable! Solidus is a born organizer, but no one is as bold as Marius! SIXTH SOLDIER: You're right! Solidus would have been slain in that skirmish last week, had not Marius thrown himself in between Solidus and the bandit he was fighting. SEVENTH SOLDIER:

And Jove be thanked that Marius was only wounded in the hand! SECOND SOLDIER: And no one treats his men better than Marius! Remember when we were caught unawares in that sandstorm? Marius kept riding up and down the lines, making sure that not one soldier was lost, and keeping us all from losing hope! THIRD SOLDIER:

Don't forget that long march through the mountains, when our rations ran low. Marius wouldn't eat one more morsel or drink one drop more than any of the soldiers, and he said that -- FOURTH SOLDIER: Look smart, men! Here are Solidus and Marius themselves, dismounting right by our tents. FIFTH SOLDIER:

This may be an inspection! ATTEN-TION!

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SIXTH SOLDIER [Whispering]:

Flavius, here's your chance to make your request! SEVENTH SOLDIER: That's right, Flavius, ask him now! FIRST SOLDIER: But suppose he says "No"? VARIOUS SOLDIERS: He won't! He's a kind one! Go ahead and ask! [They grow quiet as SOLIDUS, a tall and handsome general in his early thirties, approaches. Behind him walks LUCIA, disguised as MARIUS and wearing full armor. Her left hand is bandaged.] SOLIDUS [Salutes]:

Hail Caesar! SOLDIERS [Salute]:

Hail Caesar! SOLIDUS: At ease, men! [The solders relax their stiff stance.]

Men of the Tenth Legion, I hereby announce, in the name of Nero-Caesar, Imperator, Pontifex and Jupiter, that from this day forth the command of your army is shared by me, Solidus Vespasian, and Marius Tullius. [Soldiers cheer.]

To celebrate the promotion of Marius Tullius, we will double tonight's ration of wine and meat. [More cheers.]

Your new Commander stands ready to hear any complaints that he may redress. [The soldiers push FLAVIUS out of their ranks. He sheepishly salutes LUCIA.] FLAVIUS:

Hail Caesar, sir! LUCIA: Hail Caesar! FLAVIUS:

Sir - Your Excellency - I - I would like to request your leave to return to Rome for one month.

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LUCIA: You know the regulations, soldier: only officers are granted leaves from service in the provincia. FLAVIUS Yes, sir, I know - but - but — SECOND SOLDIER: Begging your pardon, sir, but his wife has just grown very ill and there is no one to help her or care for the children, and — LUCIA: Your wife? You left your wife in Rome? FLAVIUS: Yes, sir, and -- LUCIA [With effusive sympathy]: That poor woman! Soldiers should be bachelors, and not leave helpless, defenseless ladies back home who have to fend for themselves! Oh, the poor, dear, woman . . . . [She catches herself and becomes more matter-of-fact.] As I have said, the regulations do specify that only officers qualify for leaves-of-absence. However, as part of the ceremony attendant on my promotion, I am so moved as to take the exceptional measure of granting your request. I will have a junior officer draft a letter providing you with an escort to the port of Alexandria, and from thence you will have passage on the first ship bound for Rome. [FLAVIUS kneels in gratitude and the other soldiers cheer] SOLDIERS: Three cheers for Marius Tullius! Hip, hip, hooray! Hip, hip, hooray! Hip, hip, hooray! LUCIA [More businesslike]:

But is this what you call a campsite of the Roman Army? It looks as though it was hit by a sandstorm! Get those tents properly pitched, on the double! Are you Roman soldiers or barbarian water boys? Let's see a campsite here that the Emperor would be proud of! On the double, now, on the double! [The soldiers run off to their tasks.] SOLDIUS [Slaps LUCIA on the back so hard that she winces.]:

Ha, ha! That's telling them, my boy! There are times when I simply can't fathom you, Marius! You are either as tough as tempered steel, or as soft and yielding as hammered gold! On the field you seem to have the sinews of a lion, but when surrounded by the sick and wounded you have the heart of a woman! And now you've even made extra work for me — I had to write an explanation to the Senate concerning your request for a camp physician to look after the wounded. As far as Rome is concerned, only a soldier who can fight is worth looking after.

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LUCIA: I'm sorry to cause you such trouble, sir. SOLIDUS [Punches LUCIA playfully on the arm; she winces.]: Don't call me Sir anymore, my boy! We're co-commanders now, and equal in every way. No, you don’t cause me any more trouble than I’d wish. As much as I admire the uniformity of every legion, of every battalion, of every soldier in the Roman army, it’s refreshing to come across an officer as unique as you! LUCIA [Aside]:

Truer words were never spoken! SOLIDUS:

And do you know what I sometimes think? If Marius, the scion of the familias, can be so kind and caring, even in the best of battle, what a paragon of womanhood his sister Lucia must be! LUCIA:

She makes me seem hard-hearted by comparison! SOLIDUS [Playfully boxing LUCIA'S ear so that she winces.]:

Ha, ha, my boy, but you're a modest one! There have been times when I've watched you in a pensive mood -- looking at the sun setting over the Judean hills, or staring in awe at the myriad stars that shine over the Jordan River valley -- and it's as though you and your sister blend into one person, and I think to myself, "A Roman soldier could do worse than to marry the sister of a man like Marius!" LUCIA [Peevishly]:

She's worthy in her own right, too! SOLIDUS [Slapping LUCIA on the back): I know it, my boy, I know it! It's not you I'd be marrying, after all! But, for all I know, since we left Rome she may have become engaged to another. LUCIA:

Impossible! SOLIDUS:

You seem certain of that! LUCIA:

We are in constant communication! SOLIDUS [Earnestly]:

So there is hope for me? LUCIA [Pauses and smiles to herself]:

Perhaps . . . .

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SOLIDUS:

Only perhaps? LUCIA:

She always had many suitors . . . . SOLIDUS:

But none who are Roman generals! LUCIA: No-o-o — but there usually was a Senator or two . . . . SOLIDUS [Thoughtfully]:

When we return to Rome — will you speak on my behalf? LUCIA:

I need only speak of the Solidus I know, and praise comes dripping from my lips! But Lucia is a fickle girl, and may delight in keeping you in suspense! SOLIDUS: Marius, my boy, I'm ready to wage a campaign for your sister that will put Caesar's conquest of Gaul to shame! I know little of rhetoric and eloquence, but I'll let her read my heart. Once I've softened up her vanguard of resistance, I'll summon up all the sweetness I can muster and lay siege to her love until she surrenders! LUCIA:

Cave sis cum Amore tu unquam bellum sumpseris — Never declare war on Cupid! SOLIDUS [Laughs]:

Not unless you have good allies! And Marius, I now look on you as an ally in my Battle for Lucia's Heart. Good night! [He squeezes LUCIA'S hand with such warmth of feeling that she winces. He exits] LUCIA:

Oh, dear goddess Fortuna! My manly countenance must remain unmoved, but my woman's heart will well night burst with joy! It will be best, however, for Lucia not to give way immediately to Solidus' loving assaults, for no man values well that which is won too easily. No, she shall skillfully resist, prolong the siege, and surrender only when Solidus has all but given up the battle.

[She removes a parchment from her cloak and writes.] I'll have Pernicus make sure that this message reaches my brother as soon as

possible. Pernicus! Pernicus! P E R N I C U S ! Where has that sluggard gone off to now? [PERNICUS enters, groaning and leaning upon MORDECAI, a shepherd, who assists him as he walks. PERNICUS has what appears to be a blood-stained bandage wrapped around his head.]

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LUCIA:

Pernicus! [She rushes to his aid.] Oh, Pernicus, are you wounded? How did this happen? [To MORDECAI]

Who are you? Were you with him when this happened? MORDECAI:

I had my sheep out to pasture not far from here, Your Excellency, when I heard this man's groans, and found him lying near a large rock. He directed me to help him back to you, his master. LUCIA [Unwraps bandage]:

But where is the wound? I see no mark, nor is there blood on your head, Pernicus. PERNICUS [Groans]:

Shortly before noon, I ventured out of our tent to await your arrival. As I sat and read, the sun shone so hot on my aged head that I had to pour red wine onto this napkin. I then proceeded to wrap it around my brow in a careful spiral fashion, hoping to cool off — but then I grew weak with thirst, and, having no more wine to drink, I fainted! LUCIA:

Pernicus, you are impossible! Return to my tent and drink all the water you wish, and then see that this letter is sent to Rome! PERNICUS:

Thank you, my Lady Lucia; I deeply depreciate that. Please see that my rescuer here is rewarded! I might have been devoured by wolves had he not found me! LUCIA:

Or carried away by ants! Begone, you sluggard! [PERNICUS exits.] LUCIA [To MORDECAI]: Here is a ten-sesterce piece for your trouble. MORDECAI:

What can I do with this circle of gold? It will not tend the grass that feeds my sheep, nor will it weave the wool that clothes the shepherd! LUCIA [Laughs]: Look you, my simple friend: this gold piece has graven upon it the likeness of the Emperor Nero. It gives you the power to command others to take the sheep to pasture, to spin and weave your wool! MORDECAI: And in whose name is this power granted?

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LUCIA [Spelling]: R-O-M-A; Roma! She is the power that builds cities and roads and bridges spanning them, aqueducts to supply their water, temples to house their gods! She is the Power that lives in an Emperor who is at once man and god and who could, if he wished, with but one command put you and all your people to death! She commands the might of a million men who act as one, an army greater than any on earth. She is ageless and eternal. All roads lead to her, she is the Power of all powers in the world! Roma! MORDECAI:

I know of a Power still greater. LUCIA [Laughing condescendingly]:

You do, really? And what is the name of this greater power? MORDECAI:

Spell Roma backwards. LUCIA: A-M-0-R. Amor -- Love. It is a word game that everyone knows. MORDECAI: Within Rome is the power to reverse Rome. Love is the greater power. LUCIA:

Listen, Shepherd. I command ten thousand men who will follow my orders without question the moment they are uttered. That is what I call power! How many men does your power command? MORDECAL

I came upon Pernicus while searching for a lamb that had gone astray. Do you see her on yonder hill? LUCIA:

Yes, she frolics about. MORDECAI: Show me first your Roman power. Command your men to catch my lamb! LUCIA: It shall be done instantly! [Calls out.] Officers! Command your men to form ranks! [Solders appear and form into lines.]

Break ranks and capture the lamb that grazes on the ridge to the east. I'll give a sesterce to him who brings it back alive! [The solders break ranks and rush off, some appearing later on stage, others running through the audience. As they rush about in ever-greater confusion, they call to each other]

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SOLDIERS' VOICES: Over here, Nervus! Not there! Where? Look out! I almost had her! She's gone, now Flavius, go to the left and- Over to the right! He just fell! Watch the cliff! Gallius, she slipped by you! We missed her! She went that way and -- Over here, Cassius! You made me slip, you fool! She's too quick! There she goes! Grab her legs! We almost had her! Come here! She's over there now! Now, where is she? I give up! I'm going back! Outsmarted by a lamb! I need a rest! [After some minutes of confused chasing, the soldiers return to the stage, discouraged and exhausted.] MOREDECAI:

Now I shall try. [Calls out] Here, Clementia, come, Clementia! [The lamb's bleat can be heard, growing closer. MORDECAI goes offstage and returns with the lamb in his arms.] LUCIA [To soldiers]: Company dismissed! [To MORDECAI] The love that lives between you and your lamb proved more powerful than the might of a Roman Legion! MORDECAI:

You Romans have a saying, "Amor vincit omnia." LUCIA:

You are strange; your garb is that of a humble shepherd, but you speak good Latin and are far wiser than your simple manner would suggest. MORDECAI:

I am a Pharisee by birth, and a Roman citizen by service that I once gave to Emperor Tiberius – but by choice I have become a shepherd. LUCIA:

You have left the proud traditions of a priestly rank to care for sheep? I do not understand!

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MORDECAI:

Before too long the descendants of you proud Romans will all be shepherds, guiding their flocks through the ruins of temples, taking them to pasture in the canyons of deserted arenas! New days have come upon us, and we will all have to search for new ways to meet them. LUCIA:

I can make little sense of what you say, and yet . . . . yet I feel that between your words there lives something that moves me deeply, and calls upon me to be much more than I am . . . . but what I am, and who I am, suddenly become great questions before my soul! Can we talk together some more? MORDECAI:

Every evening I light a small campfire near the summit of the Mount of Olives. Others often join me who, like you, are not content with life's glittering surface but seek to plumb its very depths, and rise up to its majestic heights. Tonight we will be performing a sacred dance that once could be seen only in the inner sanctum of the Temple. LUCIA [alarmed]: It's not Hava Nagila, is it? MORDECAI [smiles]: No, this isn't a wedding . . . . But come, and see for yourself. [Evening falls and the stage darkens. At a signal from MORDECAI, three groups of SACRED DANCERS approach the stage and surround LUCIA, performing the following poem in eurythmy] MORDECAI:

When the earth seemed so forsaken From the heav'nly heights he came So that we could be awakened And wake others in his name.

All is changing, all's re-forming Day is night, and earth is sun, In the silent soul's transforming, A new epoch has begun. No more kings and no more emperors, No more masters, no more slaves, Let the soldier turn contémplátor,

Let the shepherd be a sage. All is changing, all's ascending,

Only seek, and you shall find, For the fire of love unending Is aglow in humankind.

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[The dancers finish and gather around MORDECAI, who quietly converses with them. LUCIA stands, lost in thought] LUCIA: I must retire to my tent. All at once my life seems but a vain dream; perhaps in sleep I will awaken to the rightful powers that guide me! [LUCIA exits. Curtain.]

20

Scene Four [The Atrium of the Palace of the Emperor Nero. Courtiers and soldiers flow in an out of the atrium, singly or in conversation, while ACROBATS serve as human caryatids above them. SIBIA PLACEREA and IGNAVIA EFFLUVIA enter. SIBIA is dressed in simple, but elegant garb, while IGNAVIA wears an elaborate dress, dripping with jewels. Their hair and makeup follow suit. As they walk through the crowd, EFFLUVIA pauses frequently to air-kiss and lightly embrace other women, or stops to allow men to kiss her hand.] IGNAVIA: Now come along, Sibia! I'm so grateful to have pried you out of your suburban villa, that I'm going to make sure that you enjoy yourself tonight. It's not every day that you get invited to one of Nero's banquets! SIBIA: Thank you for inviting me, Ignavia, but — IGNAVIA: And as everyone knows, Spectatum veniunt; veniunt spectentur — Some come to see, and some come to be seen! SIBIA: I really intend to stay for just a little while because — IGNAVIA:

Nonsense, Sibia darling. Everybody who is anybody is here, and once you've met a few of the guests you'll never want to leave! Here, for instance, are three of my dearest friends . . . . [She pulls SIBIA over to the three MAXIMA sisters] IGNAVIA: Sibia, meet the three most loving sisters in Rome — Ebria Versacia Maxima! [EBRIA bows, IGNAVIA returns the bow, EBRIA returns her bow, etc.] Nisia Armania Maxima! [NISIA bows; as above]

Trivia Botoxia Maxima! [TRIVIA bows; as above] Well, I'm certainly glad that there are only three of you; I'm beginning to Max out! [IGNAVIA and the three sisters pantomime admiring one another's clothing and jewelry] EBRIA: Ignavia, darling, your new sedan chair is quite splendid! How much did it cost?

21

EFFLUVIA: Don't tell a soul, my sweet, but the distinguished Senator Mulierario Gallius recently ransomed a whole group of Germanic tribesmen who were about to become gladiators and had them make this sedan chair as a surprise for me! NISIA: No one makes sedan chairs as well as the Germans! EFFLUVIA: And no one makes them as expensive, either. I'm not supposed to know, darling, but rumor has it that dear Mulie spent one hundred thousand sesterces, on it! TRIVIA: No-o-o! But I'll wager that it's a slave-guzzler! EFFLUVIA: It only gets about two miles a slave, so we have to stop at the water pump too often for my liking, But darling Mulie says that it is warranted to last for twenty years, or the wearing out of twenty of the slaves who carry it – whichever comes first. But enough about me! You three look positively ravishing tonight! Ebria, where did those jewels come from? [The sisters strike fashion model poses as they speak] EBRIA: This emerald necklace was a gift from General Flavian, and cost seventy-five thousand sesterces; the ruby-encrusted gold bracelet, a souvenir of Lamia's Saturnalia banquet, was recently appraised at thirty thousand sesterces, and I paid for the jewel-encrusted dress myself. It was only ten thousand sesterces, but don't you dare tell anyone that I got it at such a discount. NISIA: Ebria, aren't you ashamed to be such a bargain hunter? [EBRIA grows indignant and turns her back on NISIA] My gown is of far better quality; it is woven of silk said to have been brought back from Asia Minor during Rome's battle with King Mithridates, and because of its antiquity it is valued at seventy-five thousand sesterces. TRIVIA: And speaking of antiquities, your gray roots are starting to show through again, dearest Nisia! NISIA [Pushes TRIVIA]: Well, Trivia darling, you needn't worry about your gray roots — indeed, you needn't worry about any roots! [She tugs at TRIVIA's hair, and it comes off her head] TRIVIA [screams and hits NISIA]:

22

Keep your hands off my wig! It comes straight from the head of an Egyptian princess, and it cost me twelve thousand sesterces! And as for your dress of "precious silk" — We'll see about that! [TRIVIA rips off part of NISIA's dress and throws it at IGNAVIA] Look at that Ignavia, it's nothing but cotton! NISIA [enraged]: Cotton! How dare you! I wouldn't settle for anything less than silk, unlike you two miserly — EBRIA [storms at both sisters]: Miserly! I had already spent all of our father's fortune and most of my first three husbands' wealth before you two even learned how to bargain! Emporo, ergo sum — I shop, therefore I am! NISIA: Then why do you wear such trash? [She tears EBRIA's necklace off her neck and steps on it repeatedly] Would emeralds crumble like that? Isn't that how glass breaks? EBRIA: You venemous vixen! NISIA: You hollow hag! TRIVIA: You pack of painted pachyderms! [Still fighting, the three sisters chase one another off the stage. SIBIA is stunned, but IGNAVIA pulls her along jauntily] IGNAVIA: Aren't they fun? I told you that once you met some of the guests you'd never want to leave! SIBIA: But, really, dear Effluvia, I feel that I must be going — [EFFLUVIA pulls SIBIA over to a table filled with elaborate serving dishes.] EFFLUIVA: You can't leave now, Sibia — look, the banquet will soon be served! And here is Noxio, the Emperor's favorite, who will be tonight's Master of Ceremonies. I think that he's about to read the menu! Listen! [As NOXIO speaks he lifts the covers from the dishes or points to tiers of food]

23

NOXIO: For the gustatio a selection of appetizers: fried grasshoppers, ostrich wings, locusts

in honey, flamingo tongues, twelve varieties of song birds served in their feathers and baby pelican livers braised in their blood. For the prima mensa we have a selection of sea foods: eel, squid and octopus garnishing a roast of the Emperor's pet shark — the one, you know, to whom he would feed his disobedient slaves. And for dessert, a relay of one hundred runners will deliver fresh snow from the Alps which we will stir together with fruits grown in North Africa. Following that, the menu of the second dinner . . . .

[NOXIO's voice trails off and EFFLUVIA looks at SIBIA]

EFFLUVIA: My stomach is positively growling in anticipation! SIBIA: My stomach feels upset — NOXIO : And now, Your Excellencies, you shall glimpse the god-in-man who makes our simple repast possible. Bow before him — adulate — adore him! It is He: the Divine Emperor — Caesar, Imperator, Pontifax and Jupiter. Lords and Ladies, He-e-e-re's Nero! [Drum roll and trumpet blasts sound as the curtain opens to reveal NERO reclining, unkempt and in a drunken stupor, on an ornate couch, surrounded by food and wine in profusion. Servants wait upon him, and a crowd of courtiers surround his couch] COURTIERS: [Except for SIBIA, who looks away in disgust]: Hail ! All hail the Emperor Nero! NOXIO: Silence! Nero speaks! [With great difficulty and help from servants, NERO raises himself slightly, raises a finger and speaks] NERO: Sixteen! [The entire court erupts in gales of laughter] NERO: Five! [The laughter is redoubled] NERO [drunkenly, with difficulty]: Thir — thir — thirteen!

24

[Still more laughter] NERO: It's good to be Emperor! [He collapses and resumes his stupefied slumber] SIBIA [to EFFLUVIA]: What is so funny about those numbers? EFFLUVIA: You know Nero's reputation for outrageous humor, don't you, darling? Well, he has mastered the telling of twenty-five jokes which never fail to elicit gales of laughter. But, given his, um, delicate condition, the Emperor grows tired of repeating the same jokes again and again, so he has assigned them all numbers. Now he need only speak the number and his audience, recollecting the original joke, can't help but laugh uproariously. Look at me, darling — my eyes are tearing! SIBIA:

I, too, am on the verge of tears, and I really don't see —

EFFLUVIA: Sibia darling, I hope that it isn't all of that silly gossip that has turned you against the Emperor! SIBIA: But is it only silly gossip? Effluvia, would a god be like our Nero, inviting guests to his palace, stealing their possessions and selling them back to their owners the next day? EFFLUVIA: Even an Emperor must be allowed his boyish pranks! SIBIA: And haven't you heard that on some moonlit nights Nero wraps himself in the skins of wild beasts, has prisoners tied to stakes and gnaws on them until they bleed to death? EFFLUVIA: It's just his way of having a midnight snack! SIBIA: And what of the house he is planning to build for himself.? It will be one mile long, large enough to enclose a huge lake which will itself be surrounded by miniature cities, meadows and forests, not to speak of the precious jewels and ram woods that will be lavished throughout, of ceilings that will rain down perfumes, and furniture of silver and gold — EFFLUVIA: Great spirits need grand houses! And oh! When I look into those deep brown eyes of his —

25

SIBIA: — Glazed over with drink, and as empty as the head behind them! EFFLUVIA: Or gaze upon a sudden smile lighting up his face — SIBIA:

— Revealing teeth that rot from too many sweets, cheeks fat and splotchy from a life of ceaseless excess! EFFLUVIA: Or watch him gesture with those sensitive, artistic hands — SIBIA: — Hands prematurely palsied, that tremble with never-ending fear! EFFLUVIA: Please, dear Sibia, no more of this idle gossip! To put it simply, Nero is my hero! Please put off your melancholy cloak and join the endless party that is Roman life! SIBIA: Perhaps . . . . but not this evening. I have asked Petrus, my master stonemason, to accompany me home tonight so that you were not inconvenienced. EFFLUVIA: Then there is no convincing you to stay, you silly, somber soul! But remember my words — Tempis fugit, darling! You only live once, you know! [exits] SIBIA [To a servant]:

Summon the Master Stonemason Petrus! [The servant bows and leaves, returning shortly with MARIUS, who has grown a beard and wears the dusty cloak of the stonemason. As he approaches SIBIA, members of the court withdraw and the curtain is closed, so that only MARIUS and SIBIA remain. They slowly walk across the stage apron.] SIBIA: It has been several days since we spoke of the villa's construction. The work progresses well, Petrus? MARIUS: The structure nears completion. Indeed, were it not that the stone carvers must be given a holiday tomorrow to witness the Triumph, we could be finished by Lupercal time. SIBIA [Absent-mindedly]:

Triumph? Whose Triumph? I am quite out of touch with the city's affairs.

26

MARIUS: General Solidus and his Co-Commander Marius Tullius have returned from Judea, and the Emperor is welcoming them tomorrow with fitting pomp and ceremony. SIBIA: Marius Tullius! [She begins to sob] MARIUS: My lady, what ails you? SIBIA: Oh, Petrus, only because I have come to respect you so will I confide in you now. Two years ago, before he set off for his tour-of-duty, I encountered Marius at the Feast of the Lupercal. He approached me, kneeled before me, and in the most earnest and touching way, told me of his love for me . . . . MARIUS [Sadly]: Oh, I remember . . . . SIBIA:

What? MARIUS: I mean, uh, that I remember saying such things myself to maidens when I was younger! SIBIA: But --three years ago-- I was still a child, vain and flighty, laughing at love. I was cruel to him! MARIUS: So cruel! SIBIA: What? MARIUS:

I mean, madam, that you are so cruel to yourself to see it that way. The scamp probably did not even deserve your love! SIBIA:

I thought that at the time, too, but now I've grown older and wiser. Alas, compared to the weaklings and fops who call themselves "men" in Rome, Marius is like a stallion among donkeys -- he is like a diamond among glass baubles -- he is like a – a --

27

MARIUS: A giant among pygmies! SIBIA: Yes, Petrus, a giant among pygmies! [Pauses] But how do you know? MARIUS: Why, um, all of Rome speaks of his greatness as a commander, of his boldness and generosity to his men, of his grandeur and gallantry! SIBIA: Now my heart is breaking! To think that I spurned him when he stood -- when he stood just where you stand now -- and he said -- he said -- MARIUS: "As long as stars shine in Heaven, Marius' heart will beat for Sibia!" SIBIA (Shocked]: Why, that's exactly what he said! MARIUS: Yes it is! – uh, I mean --it is a very common vow that young men make at the Lupercal, my lady! Only the names get changed! SIBIA:

Oh -- And I had thought it to be his own creation! [She paces about, deep in thought.] Petrus, you are a man, and the best of your kind! Tell me, as a man, if you were Marius and had been spurned by Sibia, would you have forgotten her? MARIUS: Forgotten? Never! My longing would only have ripened into a love deeper and more true than before! SIBIA: And -- if this time it were I who declared my love for you -- would you spurn me? MARIUS [Boldly]: Only a fool would reject as beautiful and magnificent a lady as you! [Catches himself]: I mean, no, no, my Lady, I would not spurn you! SIBIA: That settles it, and now I am determined to win back his love! The day after the Triumph I will make my way to the house of Marius Tullius and beg his forgiveness for my foolish behavior! Nay, more! I won't desist until I am pledged to be his wife!

28

MARIUS: A bold strategy! But, good general that he is, Marius is sure to be won over by it! SIBIA:

Dear Petrus, you are truly a rock and support to me in my womanly travails! [MARIUS bows modestly.] SIBIA: But I am a faint-hearted female, and I fear that I will lose the force of my resolve unless you come with me when I visit Marius. MARIUS [Chokes]:

I -- Come with you? Oh, no, my Lady, I could not do that! SIBIA: And why not? MARIUS: It – It -- would not be proper -- uh, another man in the room might -- uh, cause Marius Tullius -- to grow shy -- he might even become -- jealous! SIBIA: Jealous? Of you? Ha, ha ha! Oh, Petrus, you are an excellent jester! MARIUS [Dismayed]: Thank you, my Lady. SIBIA: Well, we have arrived at my home, and it is resolved! In two days' time you will accompany me to the Villa Tullia. In the presence of Manus Tullius -- and Petrus -- I will declare my love and by convincing, conquer. Oh, Petrus, I suddenly feel so strengthened by the force of such a single-minded resolve! MARIUS [Aside]: And I suddenly feel divided in two! SIBIA: Appear before me in two days' time. MARIUS: Yes, my Lady. SIBIA [Goes towards the doorway, then looks back at PETRUS]: And, um, if you please, good Petrus, wear something a little less dusty! [Exits.]

29

MARIUS [Slaps his head]: Lucia, ah, Lucia — we'll need all your ingenuity to get out of this one!

[Curtain.]

30

Scene Five [Two days later Two large rooms in the Villa Tullia, each with its own doorway, and separated by a small, central changing room in between. The rooms are replete with mirrors, so that each person's image is reflected repeatedly. PERNICUS enters, panting heavily, with his left arm in a sling.] PERNICUS: [Calls out]: My Lady Marius — I mean, My Lord Lucia — here are tidings from your brother Petrus — I mean your sister Marius! LUCIA: Pemicus! What happened to your arm? PERNICUS: I was in such a hurry to return with the message that I ran into Sibia's doorway, disturbing her guard dog Argus, who jumped upon me, wrapping the claws of his right front paw around my forearm while his incisors dug into the muscles of my — LUCIA: Enough! I can imagine the rest! Let me have the letter! [She opens the scroll.] Beloved Sister, By the time Pernicus arrives with this letter, Sibia and I will be on our way to Villa Tullia where she will declare her love for Manus. Acting on my behalf, you will forgive her and quickly accept her proposal of marriage, before she changes her mind! With wishes for our plan's success,

Your devoted brother, Marius

Pernicus, is my armor polished and readied? PERNICUS: All is as you commanded! LUCIA: I will return in a moment. Make ready to welcome Sibia and Petrus! [LUCIA enters the small -changing room. SIBIA and PETRUS appear at the doorway to the room on the left. PERNICUS greets them and escorts them inside.] SIBIA [To MARIUS.]: Oh, Petrus, help me so that I do not lose courage! Once in the presence of Marius I fear that I won't be able to keep from swooning!

31

MARIUS [Aside]: You've done well so far!

[LUCIA enters. She is disguised in MARIUS' armor.] LUCIA: My Lady Sibia! SIBIA: Marius Tullius! Oh, welcome home, hero of Rome! [She bows.] LUCIA: Please, stand - I am unworthy of your praise; indeed, you used to think me unworthy of being in your presence. SIBIA: Oh, Marius, do not remind me of the haughty child who once was Sibia! I come to beg your forgiveness for my thoughtless, hurtful words of three years ago. LUCIA:

Yes, they certainly were thoughtless . . . . but then, thinking never was one of your strong points! MARIUS [Aside]: That's no way to answer, Lucia! SIBIA: I don't know why I ever spoke that way to you! LUCIA: I would expect nothing less from such a shrew! MARIUS [Aside]:

My sister is going to ruin everything! Lucia should be reconciling with her by now! SIBIA: I'll never forgive myself for the harsh words I said to you then! LUCIA: That’s good, because I’ll never forgive you for them, either! MARIUS [Aside] Lucia is going too far! [Aloud] A-hem! General, Marius, I have worked as a stonemason in Sibia's employ for two years, and I can attest to the remorse she feels for all that she said to you, and, furthermore, I can assure you that --

32

LUCIA:

No one asked for your testimony, pebble-smasher! Close your mouth or I'll have my servants toss you in the Tiber! [Smiling, to SIBIA.] Please, let me hear more of your remorse and shame . . . . [While the conversation between LUCIA and SIBIA progresses, SOLIDUS approaches from the right side and pounds on the door that leads to room on the right side of the stage.] LUCIA [To PERNICUS]:

What is that racket? Pernicus, go to the east entrance and see who is there! [PERNICUS leaves the room, goes through the changing room, and enters the opposite room, outside of which SOLIDUS waits. PERNICUS opens the door and stares, in open-mouthed surprise, at SOLIDUS. As SOLIDUS and PERNICUS talk, SIBIA pantomimes gestures of remorse and imprecation while LUCIA listens impassively] SOLIDUS [Slapping PERNICUS on the back]:

What's the matter Persnickus -- cat got your tongue? Where is your mistress Lucia? PERNICUS: She is -- she is -- she is -- SOLIDUS: You're no help today! She hasn't replied to even one of my notes, so I've decided to make this siege a personal one. You know what they say: Veni, vidi, vici! — I came, I saw, I conquered! PERNICUS [Laughs, and makes sure that he is blocking the doorway while he looks nervously towards the other room]: Begging your pardon, sir, they also say, Ut ameris, amabilis esto — If you want to be loved, be lovable! SOLIDUS [Laughs louder, and tries to nudge his way through the door]: True, but is it not quoted that Fortis fortuna adiuvat — Fortune favors the brave? PERNICUS [Convulsing with laughter, and still blocking the doorway]: Indeed, Your Excellency, but I've also heard that Certes anus eras; uxore, ducis? — You used to be sane; are you really taking a wife? [SOLIDUS and PERNICUS laugh together, but then SOLIDUS grows serious, lifts PERNICUS into the air and shakes him.] SOLIDUS:

Well, don't just stand there and spout epigrams -- announce that I'm here!

33

PERNICUS [Aside]: A conversation devoutly to be squished! [To SOLIDUS]

Yes, Your Excellency, one moment, please! [PERNICUS escorts SOLIDUS into the room on the right, then runs through the changing room and whispers in LUCIA'S ear. She nods] SIBIA:

And so I have come, good Marius, humbled and saddened, to ask if you have it in your heart to forgive me! LUCIA: My Lady Sibia, such a serious matter needs due consideration on my part. I must retire to my chambers for a few minutes to think over all that you have said. Pernicus, see to it that Lady Sibia and her friend are made comfortable while I deliberate in peace and quiet. [She enters the changing room and re-emerges on the right side, dressed now as a Roman maiden.] LUCIA:

My Lord Solidus! SOLIDUS:

Lucia, at last! It has been years — yet — I feel as if I knew you well! Those eyes, that nose, that mouth — so like your brother's! LUCIA: I have received your notes, Solidus! SOLIDUS: Are you ready to surrender? LUCIA: I must hear your terms, first! SOLIDUS:

Ha, ha! That determined spirit, so like her brother! If you give yourself up to me, I will carry you off in triumph to my walled domain, and grant you years of peace and happiness! LUCIA: As your captive slave? SOLIDUS: How quick she is! She is just the mirror of Marius! LUCIA: If my virtue lies only in being so like my brother, why don't you marry him?

34

SOLIDUS [Kneels]: Oh, no, Lucia! It is you and you alone that I must have for wife! LUCIA: My Lord Solidus, such a serious matter needs due consideration on my part. I must retire to my chambers for a few minutes to think over all that you have said. Pernicus! See to it that General Solidus is made comfortable while I deliberate in peace and quiet. [She enters the changing room and re-emerges on the left side, disguised again as MARIUS.] LUCIA: Dear Sibia, I have thought over all that you have said. Yes, Sibia, I forgive you from the bottom of my heart! SIBIA: Now I see that it is spoken truly of you, Marius, that you are as kind as you are brave! [Aside to MARIUS.] Oh, Petrus, I am losing my resolve! MARIUS [To SIBIA.]:

Be bold, good Sibia! SIBIA:

Compared to the weaklings and fops who call themselves "men" in Rome, you are like a stallion among glass baubles -- I mean, you are like a diamond among donkeys -- no, no. I mean that you are like a pygmy among giants -- oh, I don't know what I'm saying. For all that I want to say is: will you ask me to marry you? LUCIA:

My Sibia! I had hardly expected you to be so forward! Surely such a serious matter needs due consideration on my part. I must retire to my chambers for a few minutes to think over all that you have said -- especially concerning the pygmy! I will return shortly, after having deliberated in peace and quiet . . . . [She enters the changing room and re-emerges on the right side, dressed once again as a Roman maiden.] LUCIA:

My Lord Solidus! SOLIDUS: Are you ready to capitulate, or must my archers shoot more of Cupid's arrows at your heart?

35

LUCIA: You still must sue for peace, for my surrender will not be unconditional! We Romans strike a hard bargain! SOLIDUS:

Ha, ha! I've heard your brother say just the same thing! LUCIA: You should know right from the start that I'm not the sort of lady who will be content with a life around the home and hearth. I confess that I like to tame horses, and to ride at breakneck speed over the countryside! SOLIDUS [With surprise]: You don't say! LUCIA:

And you'll have to give me leave to keep my skills at swordplay sharp! SOLIDUS Why, I, hadn't thought of that! LUCIA: And now and then you'll have to take me traveling — to Gaul, or Galilee! SOLIDUS:

My years of warfare begin to seem tame compared to what our years of marriage will be! LUCIA: Love is war! SOLIDUS: And war is, uh . . . . Heaven! LUCIA: And in war they say, Vae victis! [Laughs] SOLIDUS [Aside, with some confusion]: Just what her brother would say! [Kneels]:

Yet again I ask-with more fervor than before-will you marry me? LUCIA: Yes, Solidus, oh, yes, yes, yes! I will marry you! SOLIDUS: In token of your promise, I give you this ring from Judea. [He takes LUCIA'S left hand in his and slips on the ring. As he holds her hand he cries out.]

36

That scar! It is exactly like the one Marius got when he saved my life! [Pauses, confused.]

Is it so with twins, that if one is wounded they both develop scars? Or — or — [Stares at LUCIA.]

Those eyes, that nose, that mouth — Lucia! Are you your brother?

LUCIA [Smiles]: It's quite a long story, sir— SOLIDUS: My boy – uh, my girl -- I've got to see you in your armor, lest I think that I am going mad! LUCIA: Your word, sir, is my command! [LUCIA goes into the changing room and re-emerges in MARIUS' armor.] SOLIDUS [Slapping her on the back so that she cringes]: You really are unique among Roman officers! [They laugh, take hands, and converse in pantomime.] SIBIA: The suspense is too great! If Marius will not return to me, I must seek out Marius and throw myself at his feet! MARIUS, PERNICUS [Together]: Oh, no, Sibia, stay here! [SIBIA pushes them away and rushes through the changing room, emerging into the room on the right side, where she sees, from the back, SOLIDUS holding hands with LUCIA, who still wears MARIUS' armor.] SIBIA:

Marius! And Solidus! [To audience]

Not that there's anything wrong with that, but . . . . I think I'm going to faint! [MARIUS and PERNICUS have followed SIBIA. Unseen by SIBIA, MARIUS has pulled off his false beard, and now stands right behind her. He catches her as she falls back.] MARIUS: As long as stars shine in Heaven, Marius' heart will beat for Sibia! [SIBIA turns around, looks at MARIUS; turns again and looks at LUCIA; turns back and forth several times more.]

37

SIBIA[To PERNICUS]: But . . . . but . . . . Is Lucia Marius, or is Marius Lucia, or is — PERNICUS [Drawls]: I guess that depends on what your definition of is is! SIBIA:

I feel like I am in a hall of mirrors, and I can't tell what's real from its image! MARIUS: My love for you is real, oh, Sibia; all else is but a passing shadow! SOLIDUS:

All the chaos and confusion that I have experienced at the frontlines of the battlefield seem crystal-clear when compared to this! Can someone explain what is happening? LUCIA: First let us make our way to the Forum to make known to all our dual marriage vows; then shall we four sup together, and I will unravel the tangled threads of our interwoven lives! [LUCIA, SIBIA, MARIUS, and SOLIDUS exit] PERNICUS [expansively]: Ah, truly, a consummation devoutly to be wished! [Curtain.]

38

Scene Six [One year later. The portico of Villa Vespasia, General SOLIDUS' family estate on the outskirts of Rome. SOLIDUS, his wife, LUCIA; MARIUS and his wife, SIBIA, recline by a table which is set for a small feast]. SOLIDUS [Rising]:

I propose a toast! May Vesta, guardian of the Home and the Hearth, smile upon us all as we celebrate our first wedding anniversaries! [They laugh and raise their cups together I LUCIA: And a second toast: To the Eternal Spirit Who lives in our wine, Who blesses our bread! MARIUS:

Where did you learn that blessing, Lucia? LUCIA: From Mordecai, the shepherd of Galilee. SOLIDUS: The shepherd whose little lost lamb was chased by an entire Roman Legion? I'm glad that the Senate never heard about him! Ha, ha, ha! SIBIA: Dear Lucia, you have shared so many wonderful stories about Mordecai with me! Have you heard more of him since you left Judea? LUCIA: Although I visited him almost every day after the first time I met him, and he shared so much wisdom with me about the world, and man, and God, I have not been able to learn anything about him since. But, you know, when I hear of our crazed Emperor Nero, and the way in which he so insanely wreaks his will upon our Empire, I often think of Mordecai's words: "Before too long the descendants of you proud Romans will all be shepherds, guiding their flocks through temples . . . " MARIUS: Now that is strange! Captain Capenus of the Praetorian Guard told me yesterday about a prisoner who had the gall to say those very same words to the Emperor Nero himself! LUCIA: The very same words?

39

MARIUS: The prisoner's name, as I recall, was Mortimer, and although of Judean birth, he was a Roman citizen. LUCIA:

That has to be Mordecai — he has merely Latinized his name! Why is he a prisoner? Why was he brought before Nero? How can we free him? SOLIDUS: One question at a time, my dear wife! MARIUS: He was arrested in Jerusalem two months ago for publicly preaching against the worship of Nero as a god on earth. The court in Judea ordered him executed, but, as a Roman citizen, he demanded a new trial in Rome. Emperor Nero heard of this Mortimer's eloquence and said, "Let him preach to me of his God, and perhaps he'll convert me! " So your shepherd friend got to stand before the Emperor himself! He actually did convert some members of the Court, which made Nero so furious that he foamed at the mouth. He's given orders that Mortimer should be fed to the lions in the Colosseum at the Saturnalia festivities. SIBIA: But that is tomorrow! LUCIA: We must have him freed! Solidus, speak to the Emperor immediately! SOLIDUS:

You know that Nero will no longer talk to me since I exposed the corruption of the senators involved with military procurements. LUCIA: Marius, then you must beseech Nero! MARIUS:

Since I criticized Nero's treatment of the troops in Gaul, he has turned a deaf ear to my petitions! LUCIA: Then I'll take matters into my own hands! SOLIDUS, SIBIA [Together]: Lucia, no! MARIUS: Don't even try to stop her now! LUCIA: In what prison is he held?

40

MARIUS: The Faex Cupae. SIBIA: The worst dungeon in Rome! LUCIA:

We have only hours remaining before the prisoners will be taken to the stadium. Let us make our way to the prison, and be confident that the authority of two generals -- or the wiles of two women -- will prove stronger than the dungeon's adamantine walls! SIBIA: I am afraid that our efforts will be in vain! LUCIA [Leaving with SOLIDUS and MARIUS]: Have faith, Sibia, and you will move mountains! [Exits.] SIBIA: Faith? I know what Fate is, but . . . . What is faith? [Exits. Curtain.]

41

Scene Seven [One hour later. The closed curtain serves as a wall to the inner gateway of the Faex Cupae Prison, near the Field of Mars in Rome. Soldiers march back and forth on guard duty. LUCIA, SOLIDUS, SIBIA, MARIUS and PERNICUS enter.] CAPTAIN: Who goes there? SOLIDUS: General Solidus Vespasian! CAPTAIN: Hail Caesar! SOLIDUS: Hail Caesar! CAPTAIN: What brings you here, General? SOLIDUS: We have come to escort one of your prisoners — by name, Mortimer — to my Villa Vespasia, where he will be kept under house arrest. CAPTAIN: Mortimer is held on charges of blasphemy and treason. He can be released only by order of the Emperor. SOLIDUS: Captain, I am one of Rome's highest-ranking officers! Is not my word enough assurance that Mortimer will not escape? CAPTAIN: We officers of the Praetorian Guard answer only to Emperor Nero himself. Mortimer must remain here! [Turns away.] Guards, make ready to transport the prisoners to the Colosseum within an hour's time. The lions grow hungry! [The Captain walks off brusquely. Solidus tries to follow him but guards form a line and block his way.] LUCIA:

There has got to be a way to get to Mortimer!

42

MARIUS: Perhaps, Lucia, you could disguise yourself as Emperor Nero and convince the

Captain that -- [FLAVIUS, the soldier who had been helped by LUCIA in Judea, suddenly enters and sees MARIUS.] FLAVIUS:

General Marius! MARIUS [Not recognizing FLAVIUS]: Yes ... ? FLAVIUS:

You probably don't remember me, sir, but you once helped me when I was in desperate need in Judea — MARIUS: No, I don't remem — LUCIA:

Of course you remember him, dear brother! You told me how you so generously gave him leave to visit his wife in Rome — [She nudges MARIUS with her elbow.] MARIUS: Oh, yes . . . . certainly . . . . LUCIA: I recall your telling me that it was quite against the regulations, but what are rules and regulations among friends? [She nudges MARIUS again.] MARIUS: Speaking of rules and regulations, my good man, we have a, um, small problem here — FLAVIUS: May I be of help? MARIUS: An old friend of mine from those days in Judea, one Mortimer by name, has had a misunderstanding with the Emperor and . . . . finds himself in rather . . . . constrained circumstances . . . . down below in your prison. FLAVIUS:

Mortimer? He is dead!

43

LUCIA: Dead? SIBIA: How did it happen? FLAVIUS:

I mean to say, your friend is as good as dead, if he is imprisoned in the Faex Cupae. Only the dregs of the Empire are thrown into these dungeons, and anyone who appears to have the least bit of goodness still living in his soul is soon murdered by the other prisoners! LUCIA: Oh, Flavius, you must let us in, if there is any chance that Mortimer still lives! FLAVIUS [Hesitates]: I have a key to an entrance used only by those who bring the prisoners their meager rations. I will let you in, but once you are down there I cannot guarantee your safety! SOLIDUS: We stand ready! Pernicus, remain up here, to warn us if the Captain returns! [They exit. The curtain opens to reveal a dungeon in the prison. In the dim light MORDECAI can be seen, standing on a rough platform. Other prisoners are assembled around him, listening to him speak.] MORDECAI: And so I say unto you, my brothers and sisters, that though you lie in the deepest dungeon, you are not forgotten by God, though you tremble in the damp and the cold, God's warmth will enfold you; and though you stumble and fall in the darkness, God's light still shines upon you! [As SAVITRA speaks his lines, INDIAN DANCERS appear] SIVITRA: As a child in India, I sometimes heard wandering monks speak of the life and the goodness of Buddha; this man's words brings those memories to life again within my soul! [As ASHANID speaks his lines, PERSIAN DANCERS appear] ASHANID: He speaks of Light and Darkness, and I feel as though I were again in my Persian homeland, paying homage to the gods who live in the Sacred Fire! [As HAB-BUK speaks his lines, EGYPTIAN DANCERS appear] HAB-BUK: To me, he is as radiant as the priests of the Temple of Osiris, the god who ever dies, yet ever lives!

44

[As DAMOCLES speaks his lines, GREEK DANCERS appear] DAMOCLES: I am lifted by his words onto a cloud that floats above my city of Athens! I see the dancers celebrating Apollo's feast, hear the sound of flutes and lyres, the hymn of a thousand soaring voices. The world grows so beautiful again! [LUCIA, SOLIDUS, SIBIA and MARIUS enter the dungeon, unseen by the prisoners and MORDECAI] SAVITRA: Mortimer, we are soon to meet our deaths in the arena. Speak those words once more that can give us such strength! MORDECAI: Even as the Sun shines upon everyone in the world, be they rich or poor, good or evil, so does God look upon you if you but strive to find Him . . . . HAB-BUK: I am warmed and healed by all that you say! SOLIDUS [To LUCIA]:

Are these the violent prisoners who would murder your friend? They seem to me as meek as lambs! LUCIA: And Mortimer is the shepherd who does not forget his lost sheep, but gathers them back into the fold! ASHANID [Noticing SOLIDUS and MARIUS]:

Officers have come! We are soon to die. [The prisoners huddle together fearfully.] SOLIDUS: Do not fear! We do not serve the Emperor's whims, but have come to rescue Mortimer! [LUCIA rushes to MORTIMER.] LUCIA: Mortimer, once Mordecai! MORDECAI: Lucia, once Marius!

45

LUCIA [To others]: I told him all in Judea. Nothing of my soul could be hidden from him! [To MORTIMER.] Oh, Mortimer, flee with us! We have come to set you free! MORDECAI: I am already free, Lucia. No bars can keep my soul constrained. LUCIA: Come with us and be freer still! There are many in Rome who need to hear your wise words! MORDECAI: I will not leave. LUCIA: Solidus and Marius, seize Mortimer and we will free him from this prison! MORDECAI: Lucia, you impetuous one, would you force freedom upon me? Even were my own life meant to be spared, I would not leave my brothers and sisters here, soon to face a dreadful death! [The prisoners gather around MORTIMER beseechingly.] PRISONERS: Oh, do not leave us! Stay with us, Mortimer! LUCIA: Then it is decided! We'll help you all to escape! MARIUS: Lucia, you are mad! It will be hard enough to leave this prison with one man, but to come out alive with them all will be impossible! And where are we to house this band of rabble, and how are we to -- DAMOCLES [Angrily]: Among the Greeks I am as noble as you! Though we've come onto hard times, none of us are rabble! [The prisoners gather around the four Romans threateningly.] MORTIMER:

Peace! In the dark depths of the dungeon, Marius, all men stand equal! Look at your Emperor's prisoners! Like you they have eyes and ears, hands and feet; like you they know joy and sorrow, anger and regret, love and hate. There is only One who is fit to decide whether you or they are the better or the worse, and we will all meet that Judge soon enough!

46

MARIUS:

Forgive my harsh words! SIBIA:

Now I understand the love that Lucia bears for this man Mortimer. I would long to hear him speak forever! SOLIDUS: How can he be so brave and yet so yielding all in the same moment? LUCIA: Then it is decided! We will all remain in the Faex Cupae, and die with Mortimer in the arena! SOLIDUS, MARIUS, SIBIA [Together]:

LUCIA! MORDECAI:

I have my task, which is to die. You have your task, which is to live, but to live with a love of life greater than -- [Commotion offstage. The shouts of guards, the rattle of swords, etc.] SOLIDUS: What is that noise? Have the guards arrived to take you away? [PERNICUS and FLAVIUS appear. PERNICUS has a bandage wrapped around his right leg.] LUCIA: Pernicus! What is the matter? PERNICUS:

I ran across the prison courtyard so quickly that I slipped! I am certain that I have torn a ligament, and my ankle bone may be bruised, as well. Flavius was kind enough to attend to me. He tore some cloth to bandage my leg, which otherwise — LUCIA [Exasperated]: I'm not asking what the matter is with you! I want to know what all the clamor is about! FLAVIUS:

My lady, Rome is aflame! SOLIDUS: Which section?

47

FLAVIUS: All of Rome, sir! It is only in the last minutes that the flames have spread to our part of the city, but a restless wind whips them about with wild power! PERNICUS: A conflagration devoutly to be missed! LUCIA:

But how did it begin? FLAVIUS: The word that has spread through the ranks of the soldiers is that the Emperor Nero himself ordered the city to be put to the torch, so that he might rebuild it to his own taste! Even now, he stands on a hill outside the walls, plays on his lyre and loudly recites Homer's lines on the burning of Troy! SIBIA: The lyre? But isn't it said that "Nero fiddled while Rome burned?" PERNICUS: No, madam, that is a common misconception. The fiddle hasn’t been invented yet! MARIUS [Slaps his head in exasperation with PERNICUS]: Flavius, what is the condition of this prison? FLAVIUS: The approaching conflagration has struck fear into the hearts of the Praetorian Guard. They have all fled their posts! SOLIDUS:

This prison is unguarded? FLAVIUS:

You are all free to leave! LUCIA:

Nero has planned quite a Saturnalia for Rome this day! Let us flee, before the fire consumes the very streets through which we must run! [They unshackle the prisoners, helping them to their feet and assisting them as they try to walk.] MARIUS:

I have lost all desire to remain here in Rome. SIBIA:

It is like an overripe fruit, that decays from within!

48

SOLIDUS: Some years ago, as a young officer, I was riding in the Helvetian Alps, and came

upon a peaceful mountain valley to which I vowed I would one day return. [To LUCIA]

Our family could live there, and leave Rome to its vainglorious flames! LUCIA:

Our family has grown, my husband. [She points to MORDECAI and the prisoners.]

Now we are but a part of the Family of Man! MORDECAI [Leading the way out.]:

Come, brothers and sisters. The wrathful flames' fury tell us to make haste! We have precious little time and oh! so far to go! [MORDECAI exits, leading prisoners out. He is followed by PERNICUS, MARIUS, SIBIA, SOLIDUS and LUCIA. Curtain.]

TTTHHHEEE EEENNNDDD