ACT II
Scene 1—The Central Hall in Potiphar's House
One-half of the back is the pillared entrance, beyond which there is a distant view of the Pyramids. In the other half of the back is a sliding door up three steps, leading to Zuleika's room. There is a door R., and another L. In the centre is a throne-like chair without arms. The decorations of the walls, doors, pillars, etc., are all in very bright colours. There are several stands for incense. It is sunset.
Two Officers of Potiphar's household—Sebni and Tehuti—are discovered. Slaves come and go, busy on household matters.
Sebni. [To the slaves.] Hurry! Hurry! Our lord will be here!
Tehuti. To judge by the time it takes, Sebni, my lord Potiphar and the lady Zuleika will be fast bound.
Sebni. Ah, Tehuti, I would not wed so near the edge of war.
Tehuti. Is war near?
Sebni. They say the savages of the south grow restless.
Tehuti. I'd wait for no savages, were Zuleika my bride.
Sebni. Curb thy tongue, lest Joseph hear thee—
Tehuti. [Pensively.] Ay—Joseph—! Slave, and overlord!—Some men are born fortunate—
Sebni. [Alarmed.] Silence!—Silence!
