[_All have laid their swords on the floor before _MANRIQUE.]
So let us wait. Or rather, let one go
To urge upon the King most speedily,
The country's need demands, this way or that,
That he compose himself; and though it were
Repenting a rash deed against ourselves!
Go thou, my son!
GARCERAN (turning around after having taken several steps).
Behold, the King himself!
[The KING rushes out of the apartment at the side. After taking a few steps, he turns about and stares fixedly at the door.]
QUEEN. O God in Heaven!
MANRIQUE. Queen, I pray be calm!
[The KING goes toward the front. He stops, with arms folded, before old ISAAC, who lies back as if asleep, in the armchair. Then he goes forward.]
ESTHER (to her father).
Behold thy foes are trembling! Art thou glad?
Not I. For Rachel wakes not from the dead.