For just one hour of virtuous freedom that

Belongs to you.

Vashti

I can not understand!

Esther

I know; 'tis my misfortune, and I called

You to the palace that I might explain.

Yet every word seems cruel mockery.

[60]

I do not blame you that your cheek, as chaste

As lilies, blushes at my seeming shame.

Yet, Vashti, can you not believe I need

Your sympathy? I crave your high respect?

Vashti

You must an explanation.

Esther

Well, did you

Not sacrifice a queenship for the gem

That every woman holds above a throne?

How can we estimate your loss? The pomp

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