Mordecai
My royal niece, I know that you are queen.
Esther
A queen? But what of that? Though of my blood,
You can not even look upon my face.
What would you have?
[Wailing without.]
Mordecai
My daughter, do you hear
The cries of anguish that disturb the peace
Of Shushan's streets? Your people everywhere
Are clothed in sackcloth. Read the king's decree!
[Handing her paper.]
Esther
[Reads.]