"She sleeps, and is happy," said Reuben in a lowered tone. "Would that I could find repose!"
"Why can you not?" asked Esther negligently.
"Because my heart is troubled by the thought of the iniquities which are committed in Israel. Sometimes it seems to me that I am a scapegoat, and that all the sins of England are upon me."
"Rather a heavy burden, my poor cousin!"
"Oh, do not laugh, Esther; for it is you who are to be pitied; it is for you that I weep."
"For me?"
"Yes, for you, and because of your fatal beauty."
"Fatal! I take the compliment from whence it comes, and am charmed to know that you consider me even passing fair. But pray tell me why my beauty is fatal."
"Listen and give heed, Esther. You have read the Holy Scriptures?"
"Yes."