Moffatt(i)
19 Herodias had a grudge against him; she wanted him killed but she could not manage it,
20 for Herod stood in awe of John, knowing he was a just and holy man; so he protected John — he was greatly exercised when he listened to him, still he was glad to listen to him.
21 Then came a holiday, when Herod held a feast on his birthday for his chief officials and generals and the notables of Galilee.
22 The daughter of Herodias went in and danced to them, and Herod and his guests were so delighted that the king said to the girl, "Ask anything you like and I will give you it."
23 He swore to her, "I will give you whatever you want, were it the half of my realm."
24 So she went out and said to her mother, "What am I to ask?" "John the Baptizer's head," she answered.
25 Then she hurried in at once and asked the king, saying, "I want you to give me this very moment John the Baptist's head on a dish."
26 The king was very vexed, but for the sake of his oaths and his guests he did not like to disappoint her;
27 so the king at once sent one of the guard with orders to bring his head. The man went and beheaded him in the prison,