Of wine and song? Too long you have denied

That which I covet most—to be beside

My king.

Ahasuerus

There is no favor, Esther, I

Would longer hold from you; even to half

My kingdom, tell me what you most desire,

And I will give it you.

[17]

Esther

My lord, I have

Already spoke my heart, but you will not

Believe. To test Ahasuerus' love,

I have a favor I would ask of you;

But first that my most gracious lord may know

His queen has taste and skill as well as charms,

I will prepare a banquet for the king

With my own hands. You are a judge of wine,

And every dish that graces banquet halls.

To-morrow, let Ahasuerus come,

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