“Dance with me, Death, I am ready.”

“Salomé, Salomé, dance for me. I pray thee dance for me. I am sad to-night. Yes, I am passing sad to-night. When I came hither I slipped in blood, which is an evil omen; and I heard, I am sure I heard in the air a beating of wings, a beating of giant wings. I cannot tell what they mean .... I am sad to-night. Therefore dance for me. Dance for me, Salomé, I beseech you. If you dance for me you may ask of me what you will, and I will give it you, even unto the half of my kingdom.”

“Oh, Life, I am yours. Whatever it is you want of me, I am ready to give.”

“I think I am ready for that. I think I am ready to be met.”

“If the choice is a life without dance or death, well then I choose DEATH! Now hand me my whiskey and tights.”

“The voice sang on, “I am ready, I am ready, I am fine. I am fine, I am fine, I am fine.” I played it again. I was not fine.”