Esther
I mean this craven whom you have advanced
To put to death with your own royal seal
The queen, as well as every other Jew
That breathes the Persian air, both young and old
Alike, the laughing child and gray-haired sire.
Ahasuerus
What! Esther, you a Jew!
Esther
[Proudly.]
I am a Jew.
A daughter of the tribe of Benjamin—
Pure Hebrew blood!
[A dramatic pause. Esther awaits the decision of the king, who for a time seems to waver, then extends his sceptre toward Esther. Harbonah, the king's high officer, appears. Haman throws himself at Esther's feet.]
Haman
[Pleading.]