My gracious lord,

The table is already set. Go greet

The guests and bring them in.

[Exit Haman.]

[Zeresh continues.]

Parshandatha,

What do you think of Haman? Did you note

My lord?

Parshandatha

I did, madam. His happiness

Is most complete. His rapid rise to power

Has all but ravished him with joy. And yet,

Methought that something still he lacked. Perhaps

The queen's consent has not yet been obtained

To this decree that puts the Jews to death.

Zeresh

What do you mean? The queen's consent? My Lord

Has naught to do with Xerxes' wife, and why

Should he be troubled for a woman's whim?

Besides, who knows but Esther does approve

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