Part 13 (1/2)

_Ahasuerus_

[_Impetuously._]

Smerdis, charm These serpents, if you will, your glittering words Are meaningless to me. Carshena, let The Jewish Esther come in Tyrian robe, In such a gown as never Vashti wore!

_Smerdis_

[_Aside._]

His orders have not always been obeyed.

_Ahasuerus_

And I would have my queen adorned with gems, That diamond cl.u.s.ter from beyond the Ind, Which, sparkling in her aureole of gold, bedims The constellation of the Southern Cross.

_Smerdis_

[_Aside._]

And makes the Persian peasants mourn their loss!

_Ahasuerus_

I say, Meheuman, this shall be a night In which Ahasuerus feasts his friends-- A banquet for the soul, as well as flesh.

_Smerdis_

[_Aside._]

A famished soul such feasting would refres.h.!.+

_Ahasuerus_

For who does not delight to look upon The rhythmic beauty of voluptuous form?

_Smerdis_

[_Aside._]

Cold-blooded heart a writhing snake can warm!

_Ahasuerus_

Whose ear is not enthralled by luscious lute, Whose heart is not inspired by festive song!

_Smerdis_

[_Aside._]

The one bowed down by tyranny and wrong!

_Ahasuerus_

But why has Mordecai delayed to come?