[Exit with her women.]
KING. And now that, too! That which they would prevent
They bring to pass with their false chastity.
(Sternly to RACHEL.)
Arise, I tell thee—Give her back her shawl,
And let her go.
RACHEL. O, Sire, a little while.
My limbs are lamed,—I cannot, cannot walk.
[She props her elbow on her knee and rests her head in her hand.]
KING (stepping back).
And is she ever thus, so timorous?
ESTHER. Nay, for, a while ago, presumptuous,
In spite of us, she wished to see thee, Sire.