I would my name and face
Were mine own making and not accident.
Then I might feel elated at thy praise,
Where now I feel confusion.
AHASUERAS
Thou hast wit
As well as beauty, Esther. Both are gems
That do embellish woman in man's sight.
Yet they are gems of second magnitude!
Dost THOU possess the one great perfect gem -
The matchless jewel of the world called LOVE?
ESTHER
Sire, in the heart of every woman dwells
That wondrous perfect gem!
AHASUERAS
Then, Esther, speak!
And tell me what is LOVE! I fain would know
Thy definition of that much-mouthed word,
By woman most employed--least understood.
ESTHER
What can a humble Jewish maiden know
That would instruct a warrior and a king?
I have but dreamed of love as maidens will
While thou hast known its fulness. All the world
Loves Great Ahasueras!
AHASUERAS
All the world
FEARS GREAT Ahasueras! Kings, my child,
Are rarely loved as anything but kings.
Love, as I see it in the court and camp,
Means seeking royal favour. I would know
How love is fashioned in a maiden's dreams.
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