(Andrew Lloyd Webber - Tim Rice)

CAIAPHAS

We've been sitting on the fence for far too long.

ANNAS

Why let him upset us? Caiaphas, let him be.

All those imbeciles will see he really doesn't matter.

CAIAPHAS

But Jesus is important! We've let him go his way before.

And while he starts a major war, we theorize and chatter.

ANNAS

He's just another scripture thumping hack from Galilee.

CAIAPHAS

The difference is they call him King. The difference frightens me.

What about the Roman's? When they see Jesus crowned

Do you think they'll stand around cheering and applauding?

What about our people? If they see we've lost our nerve,

Don't you think that they deserve something more rewarding?

ANNAS

They've got what they want. They think so anyway.

If he's what they want, why take their toy away?

CAIAPHAS

Put yourself in my place.

I cannot let my hands be tied. I am law and order.

What about our priesthood? Don't you see that we could fall?

If we are to last at all, we cannot be divided.

ANNAS

Then say so to the council, but don't rely on subtlety.

Frighten them, or they won't see.

CAIAPHAS

Then we are decided?

ANNAS

Then we are decided.

Transcribed by IITI