I did, madam. His happiness
Is most complete. His rapid rise to power
Has all but ravished him with joy. And yet,
Methought that something still he lacked. Perhaps
The queen's consent has not yet been obtained
To this decree that puts the Jews to death.
Zeresh
What do you mean? The queen's consent? My Lord
Has naught to do with Xerxes' wife, and why
Should he be troubled for a woman's whim?
Besides, who knows but Esther does approve
This slaughter of the Jews?
Parshandatha
Approve, madam?
She is a queen, but still a woman!
Zeresh
So
Am I, though not a queen! A woman, yes
But with no stomach for that hated race!
Parshandatha
'Tis whispered in the court that Esther is
Herself a Jew.
Zeresh