Page:The collected works of Henrik Ibsen (Volume 5).djvu/356

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320
the emperor julian.
[act ii.

Bishop Maris.

Try, impotent man! Who has had power to restore the temple of Jerusalem since the Prince of Golgotha called down destruction upon it?

Julian.

I have the power! The Emperor has the power! Your God shall be made a liar. Stone by stone will I rebuild the temple of Jerusalem in all its glory, as it was in the days of Solomon.

Bishop Maris.

Not one stone shall you add to another; for it is accursed of the Lord.

Julian.

Wait, wait; you shall see—if you <g>could</g> see—you who stand there forsaken and helpless, groping in the darkness, not knowing where you next may place your foot.

Bishop Maris.

Yet I see the glare of the lightning that shall one day fall upon you and yours.


[He gropes his way out. Julian remains behind, surrounded by a handful of pale and terrified attendants.