Hadassah FLORETTE fRUESDELL Mtl.LLK Book JEISSiSlH 3 GopightN? L5LL4 CQEERIGHT DEPOSIT HADASSAH Hadassah The Star of the Persian Court BY Florette Truesdell Miller BOSTON The Stratford Co., Publishers 1919 Copyright 1919 The STRATFORD CO., Publishers Boston, Mass. The Alpine Press, Boston, Mass., U. S. A. ©CLA5154 9I Author's Preface THE ancient Persian customs of dress, conduct, ceremony, repetitions in speech, applications of the titles of Deity to Kings, as — "King Divine," or Divine King "Sacred," etc., were in use at Xerxes' court. No language can exaggerate the old Oriental speech. I have tried to set forth the purity of Esther's heart and life as the cause of her great influence with a heathen king, rather than her personal charms ; and to show the superiority of her motive, over that of Vashti, which was womanly pride. I have made Mordecai unselfish in his position of non-conformist, obeying God's word in spirit and in letter. Much has been said about the absence of any men- tion of God in the book of Esther, in the Bible. But it seems to me that God is in every circumstance of the whole account of both these wonderful people. The fact of its being written, as it must have been, right under the eyes of the jealous Persian officials and pass their censorship would sufficiently account for the suppression of that word. But the spirit is insuppressible. Book I Hadassah The morning's blush dispelled the frowns of night, And on the brow of heaven the conquering sun Unfurled his banner and his rule proclaimed ; Began the measure of another day. Stirred all to life within the palace walls, And marked adown the rugged mountain's face, The path of travelers who, with one accord, As true as magnet to the star is drawn Each to his liege obedient, wended on. From Libya's wilds and Arab's seabeat sands, From Egypt 's plains and Lydia 's distant shore, Descended royal trains of camels white, Or mettled horses from the north and west, Across Euphrates' wave, from Western sea, Which bore their freight of warriors, princes, lords And courtiers of Great Xerxes, vassals sworn Of Persia's King, the monarch of the world. Now winding in, now out, of cavern deep, [1] HADASSAH Up over hanging cliffs of glittering stone, Then dropping down the steep defiles, with song, With jest, or silence, as became each best, They onward marched, with pomp and haughty pride, Or sullen or subservient. Some scowled, As stiff they sat with spear or lance upheld, While taunting memory fed their thoughts with gall. So on through many days, by devious ways, By summons of their conqueror King com- pelled, Surmounted e 'en the last dark seam of rock, While o 'er yon mountain peaks the radiant orb Projected cheerful light by countless rays Which center in his glowing heart. And then The weary caravans drew near. Halted. The magic sight which burst upon their view Enthralled their eyes and chained their hasten- ing steps. There at their feet, a wide luxuriant plain And great white Susa spread ! A silver thread [2] HADASSAH Broad Tigris lay, embraced by palm and vine. There gleamed the pile of pillared stone which marked Proud Persia's noble capital, where stored Her wealth, the spoils of bloody foreign wars. Phoenicia, wise Chaldea, Babylon, Had yielded tribute of their sumptuous hoards To vaunt her grandeur, and submission show To him who ruled by force a hundred lands. Protected from behind by ranks of hills, Unflinching face set toward the burning East, Beyond the utmost image of the mind, Stood forth, in glorious majesty and strength, The palace of the king. Toward which all ways And men were bent, obedient to his call, Xerxes, hot pulsing heart of all the world. Not then was war, but pleasure, his command. That all his subjects should his glory know He bade from six score provinces the chiefs, With retinues, a banquet to partake At Shushan. So his noble guests attend. [3] HADASSAH The palace, firm on battlements of stone, Four square, whose marble columns, dazzling white, Stood, carved and wrought by every art of man, Bewildering in height and in device, Approached by lordly steps where stony guard Of warriors bold, and lions, tireless stand. Within, blue canopy from heaven caught, Besprinkled o'er with twinkling silver stars. White columns bore this roof of azure hue. Hangings of Tyrian purple, white and green, Subdued the sun's revealing light to soft, Seductive harmony of shade and charm. From swinging censers, Arab 's incense burned, Whose sacred breath Great Ormazd's nostrils met With perfume, occult mixed, divinely rare. Vases, myrrhine, blood-red sard, and crystal; Gems from Caria's mines, Egypt's carven seats Adorned the slab or stood on storied pave. The king awaited, on his golden throne, The abject homage of his subject lords. [4] HADASSAH Before him prostrate to the ground they fell When they his glorious majesty beheld. While, he, the King, benignant welcome gave. They then proceeded to the banquet hall. Along the gilded tables couches stretched, Of gold and silver, dressed with 'broideries rich, And softest cushions for the greatest guests, For those of less degree were carpets spread Upon the pictured pavement in the court Of priceless stones, of red and white and black. The awe-struck guests were led by courtly slaves To places mete to rank or state of each. The Persian prince in flowing purple robe, A chain of gold about his neck, and rings And bracelets ; saffron shoes upon his feet, A golden fillet round his flowing locks ; Scented with fragrant unguent, spice and myrrh, Exquisite type of beauteous warrior race. Swart Egyptian, his straight white robe of state With golden edge and silken sash begirt, Naked his long lean neck and sinewy arms. [5] HADASSAH Rich Babylonian, in gorgeous gown Bound round his girth by leather girdle broad. Wise Chaldean, learned in heavenly lore, His piercing eye long trained to read the stars. Assyrian and Mede, renowned in war, And pious bearded Jew in vestments white. Ten thousand guests appointed to their place! Highest, apart, reclined the monarch host Upon his golden bed, half screened from sight By purple web, which stretched from golden post To post, on linen cord, by silver rings, Was drawn or draped, according to his will. There sipped the King his royal Helbon wine. Meanwhile he watches, as the guests below Partake of viands choice, and choicer wines, From golden plates and goblets all diverse, And chased with story, myth, or bold design, Adorned with gems for pleasure and for sight, Which told which province each once claimed as home. [6] HADASSAH Barest Scimian cups from distant mines, And 'gainst \ i mandate, Jewish vessels, held When mighty Cyrus spake by God's command, Were forced to grace that pagan festal board. "Let each guest his separate will obey, Eat, drink, rest." Courtiers and slaves attend, While graceful dancers whirl or slowly sway, Or swiftly glide the sinuous, sensuous steps With tinkling bells and bright seductive charm Of music rung, or drawn from golden harp, By skillful touch of Xerxes ' gifted slaves ; Or songs from painted lips of throats renowned. So passed the days, till many score were told ; Until the King forgot his state, drew nigh And took the shameless feast among his guests, Till, mad with power and with pleasure drunk, As sickening climax of a wanton scene, Boasted the beauty, grace and dazzling charms Of Vashti, his and Persia's heavenly queen. Yea more. — How fair she was to look upon Themselves should see. He would an envoy speed. [7] HADASSAH Meanwhile, the virtuous queen, within her realm Of women fair, from every clime and land, With regal majesty dispensed her smiles Within her palace, as became her well. At her command was spread an equal feast For wives and women of the illustrious guests ; That they, her hospitality should taste — The lovely queen of Xerxes, King of Kings ! Her noble height was robed in filmy white Of Median loom by broad Euphrates' wave, Golden zones restrained her slender form, And duteous homage her violet eyes command ; Penciled the lids with fragrant darkening dyes, Her lips, nor cheeks no deeper unguent need. A priceless crown adorned her sunlit hair, Suspended stars dropped from her rosy ears, And ' ' Pearls from the Gulf, ' ' entwined her per- fect neck. Bright bands took loving measure of her arms, And golden 'broidered shoes encased her feet. A goddess' grace accompanied every step, As maids and slaves conduct her to her place Luxurious softness made, — a golden couch, [8] HADASSAH Which, draped with costliest work by Syrian wrought, Stood high on carpet rich with toil of years. The queens of subject nations and their trains, With her, were honored to partake the feast, Whose richness time nor people should surpass. Those beauteous wives of Persia's conquered kings Wore each the apparel of her nation 's choice. — Flowery silks embossed with silver sheen, Embroideries, stiff with gems from foreign mines ; From the Mediterranean blue his life The scaly murex yielded to the scene The royal purple, color of the King ! Hyctanis' golden sands the crucible Had passed, — transformed to cups for beauty's lips Were wrought and traced with pattern intri- cate, To please the eye and gratify the taste. [9] HADASSAH Varied the viands with strange fruits and wines ; The price of peace and bought with liberty. By slaves the royal guests were entertained, The hours beguiled by story, song or dance. Thus winged the hours, till on the seventh day, Amidst the merry laughter, jest and wine, As from its dungeon down behind the hills The storm-cloud issues forth with shades and gloom, So o'er the revel dropped a pall of dread. "A message from the King!" Proclaimed a slave. The hoary Seven who served before his face Appeared, and prostrate fell before their queen. 1 ' Speak, Mehuman, we will thy portent hear ! ' ' "Our obeisance, Vashti, heavenly queen, 0, royal consort of the king of men, We humbly pray accept if happily In thy pure eyes we may sweet favor find ! ' ' "Thy commission. His sovereign wish un- fold"— [10] HADASSAH "Most gracious queen, His majesty commands Thy matchless presence at his banquet, now!" The daughter of proud Persia's proudest prince ! Chaste queen, that unpropitious message heard, — But doubted if her ears conveyed the truth. To catch her words, her women breathless stood. And aching silence froze their joyous tongues ; While waves of color rose, as does the surf, And higher mounts, till farthest sands are reached, So — drowned the rapturous beauty of her face As by a flood, her sense was swept away. Then from the lethargy her soul awoke ! Summoned the frightened forces of her mind And angry pride the scepter seized. She spoke ; "Thus to the monarch of the world, our lord; We must refuse to grant request so lewd! Persian custom, if not our will, forbids." [11] HADASSAH In awe the reverent Seven withdrew. In still suspense they to their liege proceed With quaking hearts. They reasoned in them- selves If power divine could save their forfeit lives! "Great Ormazd, temper his imperial wrath," They prayed, "when we unprosperous return!" Wretched, but by ruthless duty spurred, The haughty answer bore. Prostrate they fell And mercy, unexpected and unhoped, In abject ashen terror, humbly plead. He thrice commanded his rebellious queen, And thrice was his improper order spurned ! What furies his imperious bosom rent! Celestial monarch by his consort scorned! In livid rage the King dismissed the feast, And frowning aliens lingered in the gates In ominous silence, or in muttered wrath. His turbulent soul demanded gore ! But she from blood and carnage was secure. What expedient then should meet such crime? [12] HADASSAH The lot of Xerxes ' slaves, what could compare f Woe him whose duteous service he required ! For lo, the thwarted monarch thirsts for blood, And vengeance mete was impotent to wreak Upon the beauteous cause. So all beware! For who can tell, by nature 's face, the shape She marks for next example of her wrath? Can wisdom teach or prophecy construe What trunk shall blister next in lightning's fire? Can rock or ancient mighty tree, foresee, Or know the crinkling shaft has singled him I Nor does the favorite courtier of the King Know who shall fall by his pernicious stroke Of lurid anger's bolt, by passion flung. As a deathlike hush and brazen sky pressage On-rush of hurricane and swelling storm, So, while within his breast the fury raged, A deadly stillness filled the empty court. While listening walls await his voice. Thus spake the King. His minions servile fall ; " Before me bring the Seven wise in law." The anxious sympathetic air lent speed, [13] HADASSAH Lest their intemperate sovereign should de- mand Their blood, unmindful of his subject's lives When hot impatience drove the chariot Of his will, not by cooler reason reigned. Before his awful face the Seven appeared ; Next the King in honor, in knowledge more. These tall, gray, haughty men of age and lore, Their long rich robes of royal dye, high steps, And lofty mien, their princely way proclaimed, Though trembling slaves conduct and courtiers bow, Drew near with weight of dignity and care ; Who saw his face and counseled with the King. "Oh live forever, King divine, we praise Before all kings, thy glorious majesty! And that thy power, and Persia's fame shall wax, Not wane, while yet the noiseless feet of time Shall run their ceaseless round of fleeting years, Would we the fruit of ripe experience And tireless meditation offer thee, Who by iniquity art oft pursued. [14] HADASSAH We thee entreat thy godlike feet and throne To fix in safety, that shall keep the realm From inward turmoil free, and unperplexed By tangling snares without ; and to this end We thy imperial summons now obey, And hearken while thy royal wisdom speaks." "0 what shall be to Vashti, Queen of heaven? His spouse the King's command hath set at naught ; Hath boldly that denied which he decreed." The unchanging scroll unrolled. In vain they searched. "Such deed unpunished must not be. Behold, What the kingdom's fate, when consorts spurn The mandates of their lords? The heavens should fall As soon as Persia should endure such shame ! ' ' That royal culprit's fate who could pronounce? She, daughter too of Persia's proudest prince Among the Seven ! Oh, heaven portend ! The fate of nations in the balance swayed, Shall Vashti reign, and shall the King be scorned? [15] HADASSAH "0 thou rebellious queen, forfeit thy crown! King, be thou revered." So spake the wise. With one accord the verdict made. "No more godlike King, shall she before thee come. Speak thy high will and ratify this law, Proposed and made to magnify the King ! ' ' " Vashti, beauteous queen, consort of the crown, No more thy face to see, — thy presence feel ! ' '■ — His signet loath descended on a law So foul. But smarting pride blew bright the flame Of flickering, burning wrath which blazed afresh. The edict lived, and Vashti virtuous dwelt, Eemoved from glory, but with honor crowned. Persia lost a queen to spare a wanton king! How fared he then? Was then the sting with- drawn? Like caged lion chafed his soul. No balm Could soothe. A canker ate his royal heart, [16] HADASSAH For grief too constant, kept his beauteous loss A fevered memory to haunt his heart ; And his remorseful soul destruction cried. He turned his murderous eyes to yon fair Greece. Toward Greece he wheeled his royal chariot, manned 'Mid clamor, din, and music 's cheer. The hosts, Great columns made as numerous as the sands That by the Western wave of blue are washed. For Xerxes' blood was hot, his cruel heart For conquest sought, to heal his amorous wound. Alas poor king ! Though called divine, how base. The stroke and gesture of a king possessed, But lacked the splendid measure of a man! He naught foresaw of frustrate triumph's stain As his proud foes should sing to liberty ! While Xerxes on that Grecian war was bent For glory, which might drown his rancorous grief, [17] HADASSAH His future pleasure and a balm was sought Which should procure a queen — his wound assuage. The Seven counselled. Messengers were sent, In royal colors, out, to seek a maid, Who should eclipse, as moon the dazzling sun, Vashti's bright remembrance in the breast Of Xerxes, and should seat on Persia's throne A queen, to magnify the honor due The King, and bring new lustre to the court. Not vainly up and down the realm they sought Upon this quest for beauty's varied palm, Till scores of willing maidens wait the choice Of him, the King of heaven, returned from war. They filled the days augmenting nature's charms By every art of slaves from many shores. Each one could boast a servile train, that vied To gain the favor of perchance a queen ! Each jealous mistress strove to far out-shine ; — And Susa fair a glittering pageant showed [18] HADASSAH Whene'er the litters of these would-be queens Went forth, each borne and served by liveried slaves. [19] Book II Hadassah The shaggy brows of Susiana's hills Are, by the morn's transforming smile, Emerged from somber shadows, wooed by him Who by the faithful edict of his rays Prescribes the times, the seasons, days and hours, Which close enfold the destinies of men. So he the parchment of his law unrolls, Whereon it is inscribed, such deeds and such Shall be performed when he, the king of day, Permission grants by herald in the east, And with his finger fraught with fate he wakes The world. The master to his will, the slave His weary task — the captive to his chains. Unhappy they, twice, thrice unhappy some — Conquerors, then conquered by him who knew No will but his — Cyrus the Great, renowned. Since Cyrus passed, by other kings controlled Till Xerxes flashed upon the world as king. So Babylon, within her gates constrained Her captives, she herself no less a slave. [23] HADASSAH Thus some, from far Judea, brought in chains, Of royal blood from far Jerusalem The best and noblest of a chosen race, By Great Jehovah set apart to be Peculiar people, blest and taught of Him ; But who transgressed his law, His word forgot. Those Babylon's might conveyed and planted there Beside the Chebar's wave, exiles to dwell, While others from among their best, select, Were swept to Susa by disaster 's flood. So, scattered through a foreign land and far, Diverse, was colonized that blasted race. By heathen ruled, who not Jehovah knew; To mourn in bitter long captivity. And such their plight when Xerxes claimed the throne, And with his iron hand began to reign. Six score provinces, with Babylon, groaned And sweat beneath great Persia 's cruel yoke And galling tribute drained their golden hoards. Amid the mournful train, with grief oppressed, [24] HADASSAH Walked one revered, beloved, among the twelve Who sought to mend the broken ship of state, Afloat upon the waters of a sea Unknown, and guide into some harbor where A chart and compass might be found to point It toward a peaceful, though a foreign shore His wisdom like a beacon stood, a rock Of safety to the tempest-tossed. At length They rested and from memory brought the law ; And Mordecai the Jew, the son of Kish, And tribe of Benjamin, of royal line, With others counseled and some order gained. And homes and loves, like flowers among the tombs, In the uncongenial soil took root and grew. Tall, grand, lonely Mordecai ! Sentinel. Over that remnant of his nation guard. When, left unmothered on that unkind spot, A girl-child looked mute innocence and trust, With sweetness subtly mixed, into his eyes And holy warmth into his aching heart. His kinswoman, — in length, three span not more! [25] HADASSAH Into his humble house that princess came. He gained a daughter, she a father found. Hadassah, myrtle, fragrant sweet and white— A blossom fresh, and passing fair her name. Into that barren home she grew in grace And beauty. Light and benediction brought. She softened his stern heart to tender love. The austere soul of Mordecai a comrade Found of a finer charm than others knew; For not of outward form, but of the mind And spirit, which only his own eyes beheld, As nourished at his knee upon the Word Of God, she waxed in wisdom from on high. Thus in meditation, mixed with music Of her fathers, with voice and lyre or harp, She made of her seclusion — paradise. Her simple daily tasks her happiness. To sprinkle smiles and brightness, courage, hope, Among the lowly, grieving, soul-sickones, As God himself, upon the grass and shrub, The jewelled sunshine or the gentle rain. Content to ease a burden, cheer a heart [26] HADASSAH Oppressed, or wipe the tears from sorrow's eyes. Thus, like the myrtle of her name, she spread Of her pure life on all around fair bloom ; And all within the brief circumference Of her restricted sphere were nobler grown For having crossed the orbit of her path. And Mordecai upon her marvelous face In wonder gazed. He questioned. — Is it she Is sent by Him His people to unchain? A vague prophetic awe within him stirred, Which newly kindled in his soul a hope. But as a radiant morn sometimes is shook By thunders' shock, or by the stormy cloud Is over-cast with sudden gloom, more dark By contrast with the early peaceful day, So broke the blare and clang upon the ear Of that remote but dauntless captive band. The trumpet blast which sounded the approach From Susa's palace of a courtier forth Who bore the pregnant roll with royal seal That one Hadassah, marked with beauty rare, [27] HADASSAH A noble virgin dwelling in the bounds Of Susa's fertile plain, should gather her, With others fair, to Shushan's shining halls, And there appear to please the King and win His favor; yoking rosy pleasure so To duty's car and feeding appetite That he should choose a queen for Persia's throne. Remorseless fear the roses slew upon Her cheeks, and lilies pale their places knew. Her glorious eyes were dilate with the thoughts And terrors struggling in her maiden breast. Shut from her wonted joys, to pleasure lost, Within the lustful palace of the King! What chilling horrors did she bring to mind, Disgusting orgies and revolting rites. Is there no rescue, no reprieve from doom To her so awful, yet by others sought? Oh baleful edict by the princes framed Which bore the stamp of Xerxes' signet ring! Which stony grief nor melting tears could move. [28] HADASSAH But veiled and fainting she was borne away; Another link in beauty's varied chain. But as the day the night's unlike, so she To them. None knew her nation or her race. "Jehovah, hast no pity on such woe?" Hadassah, lend a listening ear. — "Behold! In the hand of the Lord is the heart of The King. As rivers of water He turneth, Turneth He him wheresoever He will ! ' ' Lo, to her heart an angel whispered, "Peace," And calmed the troubled waters of her soul. So she, unto His hand, relinquished all. True courage to the vacate throne returned, Whence quaking fear had chased that rightful heir. So was the spotless myrtle put to bloom In alien soil, repugnant and remote E'en from the garden of her captive home, By ruthless fancy of a ruthless king. Within the palace, which but mocked her life, Her modest mien, her gentleness and grace, [29] HADASSAH Amazed paternal Hegai and won From his hard pagan heart respect most rare, Who kept the palace and those wayward ruled. And lest that wondrous flower should soil and fade In atmosphere by vulgar poison charged, Unto the highest place among the fair Of that long rank of painted beauties bold He sought a place removed. And for her needs Selected from the maids a chosen seven To do her bidding and enhance her charms ; To teach the new found goddess courtly ways And speech, as should a future queen become. So dragged the days in occupations new, Diverse, but full of dull monotony. Her joy, the knowledge of the watchful eye Of Great Jehovah, — and of Mordecai, Her only parent, who before the gate Walked daily, desolate, to know her fate. Wild naked runners vexed the heavy air With pregnant cry, the dull unwatchful ear [30] HADASSAH Of waiting Susa, that by vigils worn Had, stiff and drowsy, nigh forgot her lord, Unwholesome smote and roused. "Xerxes the King!" That potent proclamation stirred to life The sluggard city and the idle court ; Infused new quickened blood to ravished veins. The seasons thrice had round their circuit run, The seed-time thrice had brought rich harvest home, Since Persia's monarch forth had swept his horde To war; to gorge his pride and chain fair Greece By fetters crimson-stained in freedom's blood; Knew not that violence nor wrath is strong, But monstrous, when against the right arrayed. The dauntless sun by a myriad smiling beams Mocked the invictorious King, who rode In sullen silence, scowling at his fate. His gilded chariot followed by a train, — [31] HADASSAH The wretched remnant, spared by valorous Greece, — The shores of Persia's realm again to see. What should temper that proud oppressor's soul? How could he meet the misery of defeat? But deeper plunge to hide his nauseous shame, In deeper shame of pleasure's foul abyss? Nor were those wanting who, to ease the hour, Occasion seized advancement to attain. Ingenious minions, who, to sweet the gall, Commingled lauds with chafing curses low, Which oft too close to the royal ear were breathed, But which their honeyed flattery would drown. Could such assuage a sorrowing hero's mind? Could such relieve an angry warrior's soul? Within the palace the insatiate King Among his minions singled from the rest One fairly formed but filled with foul deceit, Whose figure promised dignity and truth, Fulfilled, a soul of meanest base contour. [32] HADASSAH And vanity upon his spacious brow Her tinsel crown of pride had lightly bound. Insinuating speech and unctuous show Of deepest reverence deceived the King, Seeming courtly grace gained him every wish. Thus Xerxes' steps were tangled in a web Invisible, to catch his reckless feet ! And Haman, fawning lord, bowed smiling down In worship at the feet of him he served Obsequious, to the ground. Raised by him, By Xerxes King of men, to wear his ring; The first in empire, next to him supreme. Thus rose Hammedatha's artful son Whose ancient fore-sire ruled as Amalek's King, Accursed of God, Jehovah of the Jews ! And Haman, for his blinded lord, procured Some surcease for his smitten, rankling pride, In gorgeous ceremony, false as brief; Of satisfaction, from his slavish flock Of minions, vermin of a rotten court Who fed and fattened on each other's fall. [33] HADASSAH And shrewd, contemptuous Hegai advanced His aspirants for imperial choice, The brilliant perfumed bloom of Persia's fair — Voluptuous, languid, 'sinuating, False, artificial patterns of the times, Unknown to honor, and to virtue new; Till scores the unsuccessful contest shared, But Xerxes' throne still mourned an absent queen ; While glutted the King with ambrosial draughts. Joys were found to spurn his memories grim, Consummate, monstrous, varied and extreme, To still the grotesque spirits of his soul Which in his muffled ears for justice cried, Nor would be hushed by clamors of the court. At length, as when the blazing sun is quenched By cooling shade or shower, Hadassah came Before that dread and awful King of men With fear, pale comrade of her timid breast, But trusting that strange Providence which led And kept her fainting heart and held her steps. [34] HADASSAH No aid she sought to magnify her charms ; As simple child of nature, wisdom showed; True dignity her dress, and purity Her ornament, a peerless, perfect gem. When he beheld her grace, almost divine Because her heart was pure, he felt a thrill, As if a spirit from a purer world, Ethereal, had entered and approached. And when, her queenly head upraised, he saw Her face, he wondered if a vision passed, When she answering, fixed her gentle gaze Upon his piercing eyes, the clear white light Of truth shone there, which looked and saw beyond, Like a bright, high-shining, heavenly star. And love, a stranger, yet thrice welcome guest, His dark heart opened, and possessed his soul. He claimed her, not the plaything of an hour, But recognized in her a subtle strength Where he could fix reliance in a need. He spoke, and she with gracious words replied, Her voice made music in his empty heart ; [35] HADASSAH Her wisdom awed, her sweetness charmed, his sense. Quick favor toward that wondrous being sprang. For her spotless virtue, reverence strove And mastery gained against low passion's sway. He chose her for his queen. Esther, Star! And she, bewildered, wondered why should he, That monarch she so feared, to her be kind. And kneeling, humbly high Jehovah thanked. Xerxes a proclamation made. A feast To Esther, Queen of Persia — of the world! And ere the circling year had made its round Since from her lowly station she was torn, That gentle captive maid, though princess born, On proud Persia's glittering throne was set, While Xerxes, King of kings, upon her head By radiant locks adorned, had placed a crown, And beauteous Esther reigned a mighty queen. Proclaimed, enscribed and sealed upon the roll As sovereign; gracious, virtuous and wise. [36] HADASSAH And Mordecai saw closed within the walls, Of Xerxes ' pagan palace all his hopes. His heart congealed; became a sacred tomb. Afflicted and bereft before the gate He stood. Hadassah was no more. Her name, With Jewish charm, was wrested from his lips By Xerxes ' whim, to Esther changed by him, The fancy of an amorous king to guide ! From its natural channel life was turned, And whither, wherefore, none dared ask — or know. So, day by day, did Mordecai, outside The gate keep wakeful vigil for a word of her He loved. To him her yearning heart escaped, In messages, like softly cooing doves Swept hovering to his sorrowing soul. And she beheld with unsealed eyes, the depths Of love that dwelt unf athomed heretofore Within his stern exterior of flesh. As gems within the bosom of the earth Repose unknown, till mighty quake or shock [37] HADASSAH Bursts her great heart and shows its hidden wealth, So she had known the shadow of his life Walled by virtue, upright. Not sad nor glad. A man serene, calm, imperturbable. She wot not that within him glowed a love Unspeakable, unselfish, and for her. And so it was, and came to pass one day, He sat, and many more, that he might catch The rumors as they flew, and hear how fared The queen — if still in favor with her lord ; Or, if his eyes might gladden with the sight Of Esther's golden litter shimmering borne. Though closely draped with royal veil, to know She passed, the gloomy day enriched and cheered, As by the sun the sometimes shrouded earth. There reached the fine-strung ear of Mordecai, So sensitive of danger to his child, A voice which, wafted on the sunburnt air, Hot with conspiracy, by anger bred, Or foul ambition's greed or fouler lust, [38] HADASSAH Betrayed a plot by Bigthan and his mate To vacate Persia 's throne ; to slay the King. Chill horror crept along his veins, lest they Should execute their base conceit to rid By traitorous blow the groaning earth of him, — And Esther's life, all innocent, should fall Beneath the brutal stroke too broad for one Hurled headlong down, by passion 's monstrous hate. Then Mordecai, by desperate need's demand Made bold, revealed by faithful messenger To Esther's ear, and she unto the King, The tragic plot, in which himself was set The central gory figure, struck by death. The King, with visage veiled in purple wrath, His council called and inquisition made, Which black assurance brought of ripened plan, That fit to pluck, was dropping to the hands Of Xerxes' would-be executioners Bigthan, Teresh and their brigand band. [39] HADASSAH And they by his inexorable hand, With all their deadly machinations thwart, Were hurled, unrighteous, to eternity. And on the record of the Persian roll Was writ and sealed that deed of Mordecai, Which told his loyalty, that saved the King. [40] Book III Hadassah There flashed from out the night 's dark shiver- ing gloom; Which often wrapped its folds about the King, A star, clear, unwavering and undimmed, To which his eyes could unsuspicious turn And read the truth, though half misunderstood. His pagan heart was softened and impressed By every glimpse of her consistent life. He to his heart decreed more oft to see More frequent her persuasive voice to hear, Whose music, unfamiliar, struck new chords Within his darkened being's unlocked halls; And stirred to thought and lofty purpose pure, That started 'wake a vague, and new desire — Disgust for passion's pleasures and the train Of base ambitions, jealousies and joys, Which made the measure meat and drink of them Who fawned and flattered and seduced his court. Oh ! would proud Xerxes had obeyed that call, Had burst the toils of custom which enthralled ! [43] HADASSAH Had led his people upward to the light ! But Xerxes, smiling Haman ever found Seductive, to caress his pride, at hand To lull disturbing conscience back to sleep. Diversion, wild and sensual, contrived, To fill his hours and separate the queen, Whose purifying influence he felt; Until the King, fresh honors to confer Upon his false o'er crowned favorite's head, Uncommon homage claimed and edict made That all the world should bow the knee and fall Before the lordly Haman when he rode, Astride the royal charger, envied forth In purple robe and golden tunic dressed, Fit climax to his misapportioned love, In peerless self conceit he sat supreme. The King of men his tool, his will was king ! Could aught his joy augment, or pride surpass? Sat Haman on that dizzy height secure? Over the servile minions of the King Complacently he swept his pompous gaze, [44] HADASSAH Nor recked what fierce, rebellious thoughts he stirred Within the kneeling thousands whom he bent. Exalted Haman, honored and obeyed ! Yet all availed him naught, for at the gate, Erect, stood one, a granite shaft, unmoved Amongst the shifting, unsubstantial sands. Nay, more. That bitterness should brim his cup And scald his vanity with subtle steam, Mordecai, who bowed not, nor reverence did, 'Twas told him was a hated Jew, a prince Of Judah's line, from old Jerusalem. Proud Haman ! None gave him timely warning, Nor tuned his ear to catch a lower note, — That Xerxes' matchless queen was Judah's child, Whose double parent was stern Mordecai ! For close he hid the nation of the queen, Locked jealously within his faithful breast, Lest she be stung by hatred of her race. And daily as he stood within the gate, Demanded they, the servants of the prince, [45] HADASSAH Why the imperial edict he transgressed, Why he the King's commandment set at naught? "Hath not Jehovah-nissi solemn bade Eemembrance of the foes be blotted out From under Heaven? They, who smote the weak And feeble and thy little ones who fell, Undone, when Israel out from Egypt came, From cruel bondage worn by Pharaoh's yoke? Shall I, however menaced, e'er forget? Shall I such heinous wrongs, I, Mordecai, To Haman bow? To him, an Amalekite? No, no ! So shall to me, yea more, be done When I transgress that righteous curse of God!" He spoke, and wrapped him in his cloak of grief. Superior sorrows swelled his aching heart, And various feelings stirred his loyal breast. Vain Haman, to the fateful future blind! And when his servants, fearful, in the gate Expostulation made to Mordecai, [46] HADASSAH Who hearkened not, they made the matter known To Haman, whether it would stand his wrath, Or the rebellious Jew should be subdued. To lay his potent hand on one foul Jew He scorned, but to obliterate the race, To make that slight against his august self Sufficient cause to shed a nation's blood, Would proper meet his gross, prodigious claim. Then Haman to the King; before him bowed, Low obeisance made. "0 live forever, King divine ! Sacred Euler of men's minds, Wise arbiter of nations' destinies." His treacherous face was creased with feinted care. His carriage bore, apparent, hidden load Of anxious burden he would gladly bare, — Or bury in his heart 's inmost recess ; To spare his worshipped sovereign, his one joy. So spake his every pose and attitude Which held his visage false, and graceful shape, [47] HADASSAH Which now perplexed and now was gay, as if Some utmost import struggled 'gainst the hour. The various colors of his favorite's moods The King observed, and, ever quick to read The faces of his oft-pretended friends, Demanded what the essence of his thoughts. "Behold, most gracious King, there is abroad, Wide scattered among our own, a people strange And vicious, mixed, whose fiery evil blood Doth poison rank distill through all the veins Of empire ; more insidious deadly flow It bears than some swift rush of fevered brain. Dark danger lurks beneath fair courtesy. ' ' They not Ormazd worship, but their alien God, With forms unknown and incantations wild. Oft against thine own decrees, deep mischief work, And fill with fear of Him the minds of men. This nation, wide dispersed throughout our realm, These Jews, much gold unlawfully possess, [48] HADASSAH Despite thy laws, and divers of their own Ordain and serve; not thine revere nor keep." i i Therefore, it is against thy profit more To suffer them, but that they should be de- stroyed, And that thy glory be supreme, King, And magnified, I will unto thy hands For them that have in charge this business, give And pay ten thousand silver talents, weighed And counted, to the treasure of the King — " Thus in devotion spake the ardent lord And humbly bowed his stately head and stood — Quick snatched the King his trenchant ring, Into the itching palm of Haman thrust — And spoke the King: "The silver be to thee, The people too be thine, these hateful Jews — Do unto them as seemeth good to thee. ' ' Then with a fatal pen the royal scribes Were bid to frame a mandate which should bear [49] HADASSAH The imperial seal and Xerxes ' name, Which should among the Medes and Persians stand, Whose laws remain untarnished and unchanged Until the moon no longer marks the night Nor hides its purer glory from the day. Thus was the writing made upon the day Prescribed by Haman, — by the King decreed, And sent to all his provinces and tongues The potent words unto their governors To kill and cause to perish every Jew — Young men and old, women and infants new ! Possess their gold and take their spoil for prey. Then out from Shushan dashed the flying posts On sinewy steeds from Arab's plains. From city walled, to mountain tribe they bore That message fraught with woe and sped by fate, Which rung the warning knell of coming doom, And withering ashes choked the heart of hope. [50] HADASSAH Where peaceful shepherds fed their passive flocks. And murderous Scythians lurked for blood, Where greedy foes the industrious Jews Devoured with covetous eyes, that law was heard With evil joy, the promise of their lust. Oh hapless Jews ! Oh wretched that they were ! No shelter from the bursting fiery flood. The heavens were brass, Jehovah closed his ear. Transgressions past, the door of mercy shut. Revive disheartened Jews ! His ear is quick, Nor shortened is his arm. Repent ! Obey ! The King, all careless of his awful deed, Sat down content within his palace hall To eat, and drink his merry Helbon vine With Haman; pangless prince, degenerate — A fit companion bought and paid with blood. While Susa swayed by sorrow's wave, Its motion set by Haman 's jealous rage At one solemn unsubservient Jew! [51] HADASSAH When Mordecai, who to Jehovah true But insubordinate to Israel's foe, Perceived what fruit his valorous deed had borne The wailing heard and saw the tearing locks That insuppressive smote the hostile air And sprinkled o'er the pavement dropping blood, But could not slack a particle the speed, Nor stay the whirling wheel that vengeance set. He rent his clothes and with loud bitter cries Flung lifeless ashes on his hoary hair And in the harsh uncomly sackcloth wrapped His form; — the utmost emblem of despair. He strode among the weeping, wailing throng. His visage spake, as did his voice, of prayer. The vulgar hushed, the faithful he inspired. Before the palace gate, for none might enter there In aught but pleasure's garb, no thought but joy Profane the precincts of the monarch's court, He stayed his melancholy, wandering steps. [52] HADASSAH His feet took root, his soul sought succour there. So came Queen Esther's maids and chamber- lains, And Mordecai's behavior told, in fear; For oft their gracious mistress had vouchsafed Kind favor toward her stately ancient friend. She sent fair garments him to clothe, and hid The haunting phantoms which disturbed her mind, What dire calamity o'er hung their fate, — What subtile omen bore from him to her. For tale of sorrow, danger or alarm His very vestments among her people spoke The mute, emphatic language of despair. Uncommon terror seized her anxious heart When he unused, returned the happier robes. She summoned Hatach, faithfulest and fleet, Commandment gave to haste to Mordecai, Convey and bring the substance of the cause Of his peculiar conduct, fraught and filled With anguished warning of accomplished ill. [53] HADASSAH Then forth obedient Hatach sought her will, Anew to homeward lead the calm content Which wandered, driven from her troubled breast, To ease the desolation of its flight; — And seek the unknown moment of her parent's sign. So Mordecai made answer to the queen, Uncovered to her eyes the bloody plot Conceived by Haman ; to blot out all their race. Nay more : he to her hand the writing sent Wherein was fixed and sealed the thirteenth day Of Adar's month to see performance made Of every sinister particular ! And glittering silver 'gainst the balance weighed Of innocence, of virtue, yea of life, — Securing-bond to hatred's strong decree, Seductive lure to lustful Xerxes' thirst For gold, his inglorious greed to sate, Which spurred the hand that penned the dire- ful words. [54] HADASSAH "Go you in, Oh Esther, to your lord, And supplication for thy people make. Request that they perchance may live — not die Unwholesome slaughter to deface his reign." Thus poured that most unwelcome, woeful wail And cry of death into her waiting ear ; And she beheld with unsealed vision, clear, The certain, sure, unutterable end Of her beloved people. Whose race was quit Unfinished. Whose black night had hid the day Before the last bright smile of sunset died. But well she knew her hastening doom she urged If from her golden prison bars she broke, And against all Persian law, attained his ear Whose guarded presence shone with blade and spear Of warriors fierce, and ripe for blood or strife, Forbade the attempt of uninvited guest; The forfeit life, the one prevailing law, Taught and applied to women and to men. [55] HADASSAH Whoever ventured to the inner court, Except perchance the golden scepter be Outstretched by his unstable royal hand, By Xerxes, unaccounted either just or kind, If he be not called. "And no voice has me Before his presence haled these thirty days, ' ' She said. Her gentle eyes were drowned in tears. That grievous answer reached to Mordecai, While rose and fell upon his quickened sense The rising swell and ebbing tide of grief, As restless waves forever to and fro, Upon unfeeling sands roll up and down. So he the royal messenger recalled, Commanded : ' * Tell thy gentle queen : Beware If thou thy help withhold ! Deliver ence Shall rise from other and more fruitful source, And he who serves the day the blessing wins. But that shall not preserve thee undestroyed ; Thou and thy father's house alive, though thou Be hid within the palace of the King. But, my child, who shall gainsay that thou For such a time as this art brought unto [56] HADASSAH The kingdom, thus Jehovah's will to work! To save from death, restore and make alive Thy nation that is sold to Satan's joy. Cannot the maker of men 's minds their wrath To blessing turn unto His faithful ones ? However dark or deep or wide their plan, Let no dark doubt become a stumbling-block Unto thy feet, that shod with faith, art sure. Kemember but His promises, which yet Are unfulfilled, which wait thy fervent will." "Arise! Put on thy royal robe, Queen, — Put trust in Heaven, and unhindered go. Press through the unholy growth of sword and axe To him, thy husband, and the King of men!" Unhappy queen ! Before her, death's grim face, Hideous monster, in which guise he comes, By vulgar slaughter or by courtier's thrust. But even death shall lose its bitterest sting, And invictorious swallow up its prey, When unappalled his victim lifts a face Unpallid, beautiful, and unafraid!" [57] HADASSAH So Esther, when the crushing fleshly fear And tremor, was overcome by Him — With raised, uplifted head and shining face, Though dimmed her eyes and flushed her cheeks By rush of weeping, while the storm had raged "Within her soul, betwixt herself and right, But now calm and serene as sky of blue After the tempest is enchained again, Her answer, framed in pearls of love, pure gems, Transmitted to unyielding Mordecai. "I will obey Jehovah's will and thine. Before the King I will unbidden go — And not according to his will, appear. And — if I perish, I shall perish well!" ' ' Go, gather thou the faithful who are found In Shushan, and together fast ye, all ; As will my maidens in the palace halls With me, hushed vigil keep, nor meat nor drink Partake until Jehovah to my soul His wisdom grants to undertake the task By His appointment cast unto my lot." [58] HADASSAH And she withdrew from revelling and strife Apart, and strict communion held alone With Him, to study diligent the task He had ordained, and gain undoubtful mind. Thrice the sun sent forth his glorious rays Along the path of day to woo her feet, And thrice the gentle moon had touched the earth With sheen of silver by her swinging wand, Before sweet Esther, Xerxes ' stricken spouse Stepped from solitude — his radiant queen, Apparelled and adorned to meet her lord. Her brilliant eyes and wondrous face and form Seemed with marvelous beauty newly crowned ; For, nourished from His sacred store, her soul Sustained her flesh, fed by food from Heaven. Piteous pallor with his finger wrote The faithful story on the hollow cheeks Of maidens who with her had kept the fast. [59] Book IV Hadassah Inclosed within a pillared court, unrolled A dazzling scene, unrivalled, to the eye, Which with exquisite blow the senses shocked, Of shape, conceit, and symmetry contrived. Upon a floor o'er-writ with myth and lore In precious stones, unlike in shape and shade, A maze of gold and silver columns shone, That bore a glittering metal arched sky, Chased by Cimian cunning craft and art With sunny glow and softer evening light, Which, like the heavens at night, its moon and stars, The sun himself is helpless to out-shine ; And sinks from sight, but leaves a golden track To blend its glory with the whiter way. The golden walls which hid the stony frame Were rich with pictured exploits done by gods, And warriors, heroes, chariots and steeds. Seen through the forest, thick with jewelled trunks, A royal purple cloud hung beneath the roof, [63] HADASSAH To designate the sacred spot where he, Upon his lion-footed throne of gold Upraised on fluted spheres, whose golden hulk And golden stool were firm on feet of bulls, Sat Persia's King, Achemenian Prince. The purple candys graced his noble shape, Of flowing silk, down to his golden feet. His nether limbs were clothed in richest red Of Media 's loom, to vulgar web unknown ; A twisted golden collar clasped his throat. Rare gems engirt his arms and sheathed his sword, While on his hands and in his ears were stones — The price of blood, from foreign captive mines. — And priceless perfumes wreathed the tempered air. A presence of such vast magnificence, So awe-inspiring, taxed the boldest heart To venture, when his coming but obeyed The monarch's bidding and the scepter's sway, Whose language, eloquent, spoke life — or death. [64] HADASSAH A multitude of vying minions strove Their sovereign's will to read and pleasure do. A bristling bulwark rose of spear and axe, E 'en from the outer gate unto his feet, Of warriors trained, Assyrian and Scyth, His person to protect both night and day; Quick execution to perform, of him Who dared intrude, by what necessity, Uncalled — the presence of their King. The sun unheeding lit the gorgeous scene ; But tenderer shone upon the humblest flower Which hidden, bloomed without the blazoned walls, Fair duty did to beautify some spot, Unseen by king or courtier, but by Him Who notes the spirit of His creatures well. So plunged the world in golden bath, but shut From blest refreshment and uncleansed were those Who, within that marvelous prison dwelt, That cynosure, the palace of the King. [65] HADASSAH Where feebly filtered through that net of wealth, Thin streams of light from its unnatural use, Took shapes; and figures showed of ball and ring, Of lion fierce, and bull, on wall or pave, Fit emblems of Great Persia's heavy power And rude insignia of her ruthless strength. It searched among the women's palace halls Till Esther's heart a benediction felt. As its heavenly radiance she beheld Which marked that fateful morning of her race. Two nearest maidens called, and bade to bear Her train, and one to graceful lean upon. And thus in proper dignity, which well Her state became as Xerxes ' crowned Queen, Proceeded undismayed, to see her lord. The King upon his throne, surveyed his court. His eagle eye traversed its precincts wide ; Eeturned, and down the guarded highway sped, Which outward led e'en to the open door; — [66] HADASSAH Where challenged by a vision fair, it stopped, Transfixed with wonder and by beauty charmed. For in the inmost court, within the space, His bright enchanting queen — his star of light Shone amid the unwholesome vicious gloom. Before his gaze she bent, with utmost grace, Her head, which bore the crown his hand had set. Spell-bound what various passions swayed the thoughts Of bristling guard, of jealous courtier or — Mayhap a friend. While Xerxes in his breast Felt fond desire, the victor over wrath, Outstretched the potent scepter. She drew nigh, With swaying step as if by magic borne, And lightly touched the kind indulgent wood As prone she knelt in deep humility And gratitude to God, and to the King. She rose, uplifted by her royal spouse, Exquisite, pure, with yearning in her eyes. [67] HADASSAH His heart responded. "What wilt thou, Esther, Queen? It shall be done, to half my kingdom. What is thy request? It shall be given thee." But, she not yet the portent of her act Could hazard, not her purpose big construe. The dreadful splendor every fiber shook Of mind and nerve. She guidance sought of Heaven. Then Esther answered: "If it please the King, If now it seemeth good unto my lord, Pray let the King and Haman come this day Unto the banquet which is now prepared. ' ' Then to his servant, bade the King : "Go thou And Haman call, Queen Esther's will obey." So Xerxes and beloved Haman came Unto the banquet Esther had prepared. And as he sipped the sacred cup he said: "What is thy petition, beauteous queen, And what is thy request 1 It shall be done, To half the empire ; it shall be performed. ' ' [68] HADASSAH Then Esther said: "If in thy sight, King, Thy favor I have found, let, I pray The King and Haman yet to-morrow come My banquet to partake, and I will do As saith my lord." For still her heart re- frained, More strength required, more wisdom yet, to speak. Once more the darkness saw her bitterness, As she Jehovah pleaded not in vain. Forth from the banquet Haman strode, And glad. But when he Mordecai beheld, Old, gray, impassive Jew, within the gate, Who bowed him not nor moved, but silent sat, 'Gainst him was he with indignation filled. But Xerxes ' favorite refrained himself Till he was come unto his house, then called His wife, unstable Zeresh, and his friends, To soothe his fretted spleen with honeyed words And fond sweet flatteries, in bland sunshine Or creatures fawning, faithless as himself. [69] HADASSAH The glory of his riches he unrolled, Also, wherein the King promoted him Above the royal princes of the realm. Yea moreover, no other man was called To Esther's banquet but his liege and him. Spoke Haman : ' ' And to-morrow I am bid Again to her, also with the King." And swelling exultation shook his frame. "Yet all this avails me naught, while I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the gate. " Ignoble Haman, puffed with preposterous pride And sallow jealousy his vitals gnawed. Then urged the clamorous Zeresh, and the rest, " Since in thy hand the King has put the Jews To kill and slay, but hasten thou the day Appointed, cast by lot and punish this Hoar and haughty, on a gallows high Within thy court, a wholesome warning, seen By Shushan, of the fate of him who dares Ignore Great Haman, whom shall all obey." Which words his ears so tickled that he smiled A venomous assent, and bade be raised [70] HADASSAH A shaft of fifty cubits height to stand All ready to fulfilment of his hate, The bitter fruit of his prodigious plan, Which naught should sweeten as it riper grew, When he should on the morrow speak his wish That Mordecai should perish, to the King First and early, then merrily go in To drink Queen Esther's banquet with fair grace. The monstrous thing much pleased proud Haman's soul. And as the gruesome music made by tool Upon the hideous frame that sounded loud The doom of Mordecai, the laggard steps Of time withheld the leaps of Haman's lust For crime, till morning her permission gave. That dark portentous night could not the King Possess himself of sleep. Upon his bed Beneath the branches of a golden tree, Which lacey patterns wove, and of a vine Whose brilliant fruit was rich with precious gems, [71] HADASSAH He tossed, and unsuccessful wooed the god, That wanton played beyond e 'en Xerxes ' reach. Nor could his singing girls nor dancers charm, But weary with the round of follies stale He summoned forth a scribe to bring the roll Of record, the chronicles of Persia, To read its valorous annals while he waked. And written it was found that Mordecai The foul conspiracy of Bigthan wrecked, And of his band, who kept the royal doors, Who sought in rancorous vengeance to destroy the King. "What sufficient honor has been done To him, this Mordecai, my faithful subject What readest thou upon the sacred roll?" His servant answered: "There is nothing writ. ' ' Before the glowing sun, the stars had fled Nor his compelling march disputed sway, And brilliant pageants spread unto his view, [72] HADASSAH For sparkling jewels dressed each tree and blade To celebrate the victory of day. His reign began. "Who stands within the court?" The King, alert, inquired. "Lo Haman, sire," The servant said, "awaits his lord's command." For eager Haman came to speak the King To hang upon his gallows, Mordecai. "Let him draw nigh." So artful Haman came, With ceremony fair and evil mind. "What shall be done to him, the man the King Delighteth to honor? What sayest thou prince ? ' ' "In whom is lodged the King's delight and whom 4^\-i Would he exalt but me?" Spake Haman 's heart. But with his lips: "Let royal garments, rich With sacred unction from thyself, be brought. And thy proud courser, stiff with golden gear. [73] HADASSAH A royal crown be set upon his head, His envied hulk in that apparel dressed, On the immortal stallion set, and led By one of Persia's proudest prince's hand, Through Susa's streets 'twixt kneeling multi- tudes, Who shall proclaim, ' So doth the King to him, The man, his soul delighteth to honor!' " So Haman said ; and with false meekness bowed. ' ' Thy thought is noble and thy words are sage. Go thou, and likewise do, to Mordecai. Let nothing thee escape, that thou hast said ; For thus shall be conferred a late reward, Too long by cunning and by venom hid. Be thou, my trusted minister, the man To show to Shushan his integrity. ' ' Then did he all according to his words. The steed and the apparel, and arrayed That hateful Mordecai, that Jew, and went Before him through the streets proclaiming loud: [74] HADASSAH "So doth the King to him whom he delights To honor. ' ' And led him back unto the gate. Then went consummate Haman to his house, With covered head, confounded and ashamed. To mourn unseen his bleeding pride, and curse Subverted vengeance, which had laughed to scorn His sleek complaisance and his high estate. And when his Zeresh saw his wretchedness, Intolerable and untrue seemed all His fallen glory. Then his wise men said : "If Mordecai, before whom thou hast fallen Be as thou sayest, a Jew, then surely art Thou fallen indeed, and none shall stay ! ' ' While yet his stream of misery flowed full, Which from an ever swelling fountain poured, A messenger arrived in haste to bring Before Queen Esther, Haman to her feast. The adoring King to Esther said: "Thrice Have I urged thee what thy petition is, [75] HADASSAH By thy bewitching veil of modesty The wish, that hidden lies within thy breast. What is thy request ? It shall be performed, For thy sweet purity can naught construe Of evil's darkness, but thine eyes the light." Queen Esther summoned all her allied force Of brain and soul, and flung into her words And face the anguished answer from her heart "If I have favor found in thy sweet sight, If it please the King, let my life be given Me, at my petition, and my people At my request, for we are foully sold To be destroyed — I and my people all All to be slain and perish from the earth ! ' ' A wave of horror swept the mighty King From off the shores of reason and of thought. His pulses stopped, and paralyzed his sense. "Had we but been to grievous bondage sold, In bitter silence I had held my tongue. Although, the damage done to thee, King, The enemy could never countervail." [76 J HADASSAH 1 'Who is the man, and where, that durst pre- sume Within his heart to do this monstrous thing?" So spake the King. His visage by the fire That lit the furnace of his wrath burned white ; His lofty form uprisen from his couch. His thirst for vengeance choked his parched throat, Nor could his heart his wild demands fulfil How e 'er it vainly struggled to obey. "The adversary, and our enemy, Is wicked Haman, who partakes My feast and mocks his sovereign with his smiles." The King withdrew into the garden cool Of Esther's palace, in the plane-tree's shade, To whet to edge the weapons of his mind, To mete sufficient justice to such crime. No common price could settle that account, For Haman 's guilt was treachery distilled And Xerxes' soul abhorred the liar's art. [77] HADASSAH Doubtful and dismayed, with loosening joints, Stood Haman up to plead his fallen cause With Esther, whose sore wounds had been his joy. His malicious hulk he cowering flung Down at her feet, in abject cowardice, And wept unseemly tears by terror wrung. The King beheld in wrathful scorn, and signed His waiting slaves, who covered Hainan's face With execution's blinding-sheet of doom, In heavy silence and bore him to his death. Harbonah, Xerxes ' faithful prince who dared To counsel with the King, unveiled his eyes To Haman 's gallows, consummation bold, The sinister design, anterior shaft, Which he had reared for Mordecai the Jew. The foaming King sarcastic sentence gave. ''Let him adorn the tree his malice grew. Hang him thereon, its own most proper fruit. ' ' He who for the hapless Jews had digged a pit, With both his wicked feet had plunged, himself. [78] HADASSAH So they hanged Haman on the gallows built For Mordecai, of fifty cubits height, While jeering multitudes with wagging heads Grinned at his writhing agony and shame. And then became the King's wrath pacified. He gave the house of Haman to his Queen, For he knew not her soul repelled the gift, Of Hainan's treachery and blood, the price. Proud Pagan Xerxes wrought but justice grim, Nor ever knew that love, not wrath is strong, That Esther sought in love to save the Jews, Nor aught against their enemy invoked. Thus greatest happiness was mixed with pain. Then Mordecai was brought before the King. The tender tie which close entwined the Queen Revealed and honored, that parental bond ! The King drew off the ring that late had graced The faithless Haman 's hand. To Mordecai Gave custody, and Hainan's house became The house of him who spurned the Amalekite. Once more with graceful port the Queen ad- vanced [79] HADASSAH And weeping cast herself at Xerxes' feet. Once more the scepter spoke with pregnant voice, And Esther lived. She stood before her lord In melting, supplicating grief. She plead : "If favor yet I find, and if the King Be pleased : Oh ! magnify thy patience still To grant yet further all my broad request. How can I endure to see destruction fall On all my kindred, innocent of guilt % Write ye, 0, King what cannot be reversed, And with thy potent ring the writing seal, To cure among the Jews the deadly wound By Hainan's cruel arrows swiftly sped. Thy soul, the works of peace cannot disdain, But shed quick healing o'er his poisoned sting. " ' ' Three flying months already have consumed Since hatred's breath the wholesome air defiled, To shed sure death upon the helpless Jews. ' ' She spoke a language of unequalled charm, For in fathomless depths of love 'twas shaped, The stedfast purpose of Jehovah's will. Once more, but now in mercy, were the scribes [80J HADASSAH Forth summoned to appear and write the words Of fate, a nation's destiny to mend. Perplexing was the work, for minds, though sage, Whose years had seen the birth and death of kings And empires, and the fall of kingdoms old And strong, by Persia's unrelenting stroke Uprooted, as the mighty sycamore Before the hurricane's mad rush succumbs, Had writ triumphant slaughter, bloody deed Of carnage, rigor, torment and distress. But chronicle of mercy to indite Unto a race subdued, they ne'er were bade. But now, behold, doth Persia's King command: "Write ye according to the words decreed By Mordecai, henceforth my minister And also for the Jews, what liketh him." Then was it written that upon that day By Haman cast for their destruction due The Jews should be in every place set free, [81 J HADASSAH And stand against their foes and for their lives, Which were by Haman ordered to consume Them, man and store, for e'en the King could not Reverse the law by Medes and Persian 's made ; Which once promulgate firm forever stood. So was the writing done, and signed and sealed And sent by riders swift on horse or mule Or royal dromedary for the Jews, Unto the rulers of the provinces Which stretched away from Arabia, to the sea Which western lay, to Ethiopia dark, According to their language and their speech. And joy and gladness spread o'er ashes dead Of stricken hearts, and life from death arose. So was the vicious hate of Haman turned. Who durst molest the Jews, himself was prey. Because the fame of Mordecai waxed great Did fear and dread fall on the heathen hordes Whose expectation swam in gore and spoil, Fulfilled grim disappointment's empty cup, Or death to them that, tempted by the prize [82] HADASSAH And eager to torment, rebelled the law Which lent deliverance to the captive Jews. From out the palace went forth Mordecai In royal purple and fine linen clothed, A golden crown upon his head. Shushan rejoiced, and ran with gladness full. [S3 Some of the Authorities Consulted The Bible, Apocrypha, Antiquities of the Jews, Josephus, Herodotus, Rawlinson's Ancient Monarchies, Encyclopaedia Britannica, Encyclopaedia American, Encyclopaedia Chambers', Smith's Bible Dictionary, Hasting 's Bible Dictionary, Lang's Commentaries, Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther Adeny, John Lord, Etc. Deacidified using the Bookkeeper process. 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