A marketplace in Antioch. In front, on the right, a street debouches into the market; to the left, at the back, there is a view into a narrow and crooked street.
A great concourse of people fills the market. Hucksters cry their wares In several places the towns-*people have gathered into clusters, talking eagerly
A Citizen.
Good God of heaven, when did this misfortune happen?
Another Citizen.
This morning, I tell you; quite early this morning.
Phocion the Dyer.
[Who has entered from the street on the right.] My good man, do you think it is fitting to call this a misfortune? I call it a crime, and a most audacious crime to boot.
The Second Citizen.
Yes, yes; that is quite true; it was a most audacious thing to do.
Phocion.
Only think—of course it is the outrage on the temple of Venus you are talking of? Only think of their choosing a time when the Emperor was in the city! And this day, too, of all others—a day
