20For Herod was in fear of John, being conscious that he was an upright and holy man, and kept him safe. And hearing him, he was much troubled; and he gave ear to him gladly.
21And the chance came when Herod on his birthday gave a feast to his lords, and the high captains, and the chief men of Galilee;
22And when the daughter of Herodias herself came in and did a dance, Herod and those who were at table with him were pleased with her; and the king said to the girl, Make a request for anything and I will give it you.
23And he took an oath, saying to her, Whatever is your desire I will give it to you, even half of my kingdom.
24And she went out and said to her mother, What is my request to be? And she said, The head of John the Baptist.
25And she came in quickly to the king, and said, My desire is that you give me straight away on a plate the head of John the Baptist.
26And the king was very sad; but because of his oaths, and those who were with him at table, he would not say 'No' to her.
