Part 2 (1/2)
_Esther_
Why does the premier hate The Jews?
_Mordecai_
Because the children of the true And living G.o.d will never bend the knee To heathen pride. He hates the Jews because Your uncle is a child of Abraham And will not do obeisance to a son Of Baal. Esther, though I made you queen, I plead not for the life of Mordecai, But for the sacred blood of Israel.
You alone can intervene. Go straight Before the king and make demand that he Reverse this law that puts the Jews to death.
_Esther_
A Persian king can not reverse his own Decree. Besides, the queen who goes into The presence of her lord unless by his Express command, must sacrifice her life, Except through some unguarded impulse he Extends his golden sceptre that she live.
I can not go unto the king.
_Mordecai_
Your life Is forfeited already, child; you are A Jew.
_Esther_
You did conceal my blood nor dare Reveal my lineage now. Your own deceit Has brought this death upon the house of Israel, Nor will Jehovah hold you guiltless in The hour of doom.
_Mordecai_
Esther, if you keep Your peace when Rachel's children wail and cry For help, deliverance will arise Unto the Jews but you shall be destroyed And all your father's house.
_Esther_
Depart. [_Sound of trumpets within._]
The king Is on his throne. I go, and if I die, I can but perish. Peace to Israel.
[_Exit Mordecai._]
[_The curtain back rises and discloses Ahasuerus on his throne surrounded by court. Esther approaches to center of hall before the king, and extends her hands as though supplicating. The king seems dazed for a moment and then deeply moved; slowly he lifts the golden sceptre and extends it toward the queen who approaches and touches it._]
_Ahasuerus_
Why did you, Esther, O most beauteous queen, Thus dare to come unbidden to the king?
'Twas jealous Death unbarred the royal door That he might claim you for his paramour?
Your innocence and charms have saved your life!
_Esther_
[_Innocently._]
My lord, how now was I in danger? Ah, You know I am your loyal wife? I would Not be your queen alone. The crown is naught Compared to pleasures of companions.h.i.+p.
O Xerxes, may not Esther share your joys Of wine and song? Too long you have denied That which I covet most--to be beside My king.
_Ahasuerus_