50
And upon the one she leaned, carrying herself daintily;
51
and the other followed, bearing up her train.
52
And she was rosy through the perfection of her beauty, and her countenance was cheerful and very amiable; but her heart was in anguish with fear.
53
Then, having passed through all the doors, she stood before the king, who sat upon his royal throne and was clothed with all his robes of majesty, all glittering with gold and precious stones; and he was very fearsome.
54
Then, lifting up his countenance that shone with majesty, he looked very fiercely upon her. And the queen fell down, and was pale and fainted, and bowed herself upon the head of the maid who went before her.
55
Then God changed the spirit of the king into mildness, who in fear leaped from his throne and took her in his arms till she came to herself again; and he comforted her with loving words and said unto her,
56
"Esther, what is the matter? I am thy brother; be of good cheer.
57
Thou shalt not die, though our commandment be general. Come near."
58
And so he held up his golden scepter and laid it upon her neck,
59
and embraced her and said, "Speak unto me."
60
Then said she unto him, "I saw thee, my lord, as an angel of God, and my heart was troubled with fear of thy majesty.