A A 1 cz ID 3 7 2 6 4 7 6120 H377 LIBRARY THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA BARBARA PRESENTED BY MRS. WILLIAM ASHWORTH The Star in the East: A Biblical Drama in Four Acts: by Anna Jane Harnwell Sarp"^ French: Pub- ler 28-3 , *-irty-eighth Street: N* ^ork LONDON 4^ LC *^ No Plays Sent on Appro^ . vXAV^AJ.^ xchanged PRICE THIRTY-FIVE CENTS (. LG. T^rench, THE STAR IN THE EAST. Bible pUy b four act* by Anna Jane HarnweU. 9 males, 4 females. Plays a full evening. Biblical costumes. This four act drama is one of the prize plays resulting from the contest recently held by the Drama League of America in the hope of securing much needed Biblical scenes for use in the religious schools. A drama of the Book of Esther. It is written in blank verse, and adheres closely to the Bible narrative. Mor- decai ia the star role for a man, but the characters of Esther, Vashti and the King are almost equally good. The very beautiful and dramatic setting of the Old Testament story makes it quite as interesting as a secular production, though it is esi>ecially suit- able for churoh or Sunday School use. Settings as simple or as elaborate as desired. Price 35 oents. JEPTHAH'S DAUGHTER. Biblical dn.jia in 1 act, by Elma Ehrlich Levinger. 5 males, 6 females. This one-act drama of the time of Esther is one of the prize plays resulting from the contest recently held by the Drama League of America in the hope of securing much needed material on Biblical themes for use in the religious schools. It presents the familiar story from a new and dramatic angle, with a strong element of suspense. The characters are vividly drawn, the dialogue poetic without being stilted. It may he presented either with simple settings and a small group, or as a pageant play with elaborate scenic effects, a large cast and interpolated choruses and group dances. Price 35 cents. THE NATIVITY, a Chi.jtmas festival composed entirely of selec- tions from the Bible story of the Nativity, arranged as a mystery play. It is accompanied by carols and is adapted for easy pro- duction by children or young people, to be given as a service at Christmas time in the churches. The "Nativity" was published a few years ago in the "Youth's Companion." Since that time there has been so large a demand for it by churches of all de- nominations we have arranged for its publication. Price, 35 cents. The Star in the East A BIBLICAL BR AM A IN FOUR ACTS BY ANNA JANE HARNWELL PRIZE PLAY Drama League of America Copyright, 1921, by Drama League of America The religious Drama Contest was conducted by the Drama League to provide much needed dramatic material for church work. That these plays may be available for the largest possible public use, permission is granted ama- teurs to perform the plays without royalty, but all profes- sional rights, including Little Theaters & Motion Pictures, are reserved by the Drama League. Applications for pro- fessional productions should be addressed to the Drama League of America, 59 East Van Buren Street, Chicago, 111. New York Samuel French Publisher 28-30 West 38th Street London Samuel French, Ltd. 26 Southampton Street Strand CHARACTERS > Chamberlains Ahasuerus, King of Persia and the East Hegai Shaasiigaz Harbonah BiGTIIAN Teresii Haman, an Amalekite. the king's favorite Mordecai, a Jew, the cousin of Hadassah A Scribe Vasiiti, the Queen Hadassah, a Jewess (afterwards, Esther) Anna, her handmaid (afterwards, Nicaso) A Slave Soldiers. Archers, Male and Female Slaves and Handmaidens The play is laid in Shusan, the capital city of Persia, in the latter part of the fifth century B.C. LTBRA7?Y UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA BARBARA The Star in the East ACT I Scene. A simple room in the house of Mordecai, the Jew, near the palace of King Ahasuerus. At tipper left a heavy striped curtain closes the opening into the street. Near this door are the racks for the large zvater bottles. Two or three are in these racks. On a shelf are a few earthen utensils, bozvls and cups, as well as a basin of copper. In the back center is an open wiyidozv, through which one may see the gar- dens of the palace and a portion of the palace itself. Anna sits before a loom weaving some pur- ple cloth. A large roll of the completed zveave lies beside her on the floor. She sits on a low stool. Nearer the center Hadassah reclines on a pile of cushions. She is about eighteen years old, and beautiful in the dark oriental fashion. Both she and Anna are dressed in the fiozving simple JeziAsh costume of the time. Hadassah is reading aloud from a scroll as the curtain rises. Hadassah : "They that hated them ruled over them, Their enemies also oppressed them, And they were brought into subjection under their hand. 6 THE STAR IN THE EAST Many times did he deliver them ; But they were rebellious in their counsel, And were brought low in their iniquity, Neverlheless he regarded their distress, When he heard their cry; And he remembered for them his covenant. And repented according to the multitude of his mercies. He made them also to be pitied Of all those that carried them captives. Save us, O Lord our God, And gather us from among the nations, To give thanks unto thy holy name, And to triumph in thy praise." (Pauses a moment in thought.) David foresaw our sorrow when he wrote this hymn of the captivity. I wonder shall we ever live to sing the song of our deliverance? Anna. I like not this hymn. It is over long. I like the short ones best. Hadassah. Naughty Anna ! Thou sayest that but to tease. How lovely is the color in that cloth ! Anna: Well may thou say so. I got the dye From an old Tyrian merchant. 'Tis a rare And secret root, and very costly. (Holds up some of the cloth.) 'Twould be beautiful embroidered all in Lilies or in leaves, vine leaves and tendrils — Nay, sweet Hadassah, frown not, you know it would. Hadassah : I know these Persian customs tempt our race From the mosaic law. "No likeness," doth it read, THE STAR IN THE EAST 7 "Of anything in heaven or in earth Or even in the vi^aters underneath, Shall be devised by Israel, saith the Lord." (Regards it contemplatively.) But if we trim it v/ith a fringe of gold It would be worthy even of a queen. Anna: And thou hast royal blood within thy veins, Even Saul's blood, who "was a mighty king. Hadassah : Little avails what flows within the veins Of a poor Jewish maid. The child of exiles. Daughter of a race despised and persecuted. Anna: Sweet Hadassah, look not so sad. Read From the marriage hymn I always love. 'Twill make thee smile, and I will work again. Hadassah : Thou art my sunshine, Anna. Thou scatterest Sorrow as the sun the clouds. Here is the place — (Reads) — "Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and incline thine ear ; Forget also thine own people and thy father's house ; So shall the king desire thy beauty : For he is thy Lord ; and worship thou him. And the daughter of Tyre shall be there with a gift ; Even the rich among the people shall entreat thy favour. The king's daughter within the palace is all glorious ; Her clothing is inwrought with gold. She shall be led unto the king in broidered work. 8 THE STAR IN THE EAST I will make thy name to be remembered in all gen- erations : Therefore shall the peoples give thee thanks for ever and ever." (A pause, zvhile Hadassaii sits lost in thought.) Anna: Why so sad, mistress? This great king is not Unkind. He is a gentle master. Our people do not suffer as they did Beneath his father's rule. Hadassah : I know, and yet Mordecai saith he's led most easily, The power of Haman waxeth day by day. He hates our people. He will strike at them If once his favor with the king is sure. I fear the man. Anna: There's the queen, Vashti ; Rumor everywhere says the king hearkens To her lightest word. Hadassah : 'Tis true. The king Is captive to her beauty. And why not ? Her skin is alabaster where each vein Is marked with sapphire. All her hair Is crinkly gold, which streams below a waist Like to a willow wand. But beryls are Her eyes ; while her proud heart was cut from marble, So hard and cold it is. Mordecai saith He fears her more than Haman, and Haman Is but her creature. THE STAR IN THE EAST 9 Anna: Always there's the king. He hath a kindly smile. I cannot think That he would do us harm. Hadassah : I hope as thou. He hath a kindly smile and wondrous eyes, Yet Hegai tells my father when he's roused And fired by heat of passion, he becomes As firmest steel, thrice hardened in the fire Of his own wrath. Alas ! our people live In daily peril. Anna: If only this poor Remnant might be saved ! Hadassah : It must be saved Until Messiah comes ; The Prince of Peace Isaiah once foretold. Surely the Lord Hath not forgot his children, who languish Here in exile and in tears ! We must have Faith, though hope be nearly fled. (Enter Mordecai. He is a handsome, commanding figure, about sixty years of age, dressed in dark, flozving robes zvith a turban on his head. He wears a full grey beard.) Mordecai. Peace be to thee, and unto all this house ! Hadassah a«(/ Anna. (Rising) And unto thee, O master, peace and grace. Hadassah. (Embracing him) O Mordecai, my father, thou art welcome. Come rest upon these cushions. Tell thy daughter What is the news with thee? 10 THE STAR IN THE EAST MORDECAI : I am most weary. The air hath been so sultry, and tlie heat Oppressed me sorely. It is good at last To rest within the house. (Turning to Anna.j Anna, I think the maids Do linger overlong about the well To tattle with each other and to catch The ever-ready eyes of passing men. Go fetch them back, and bid them quick prepare The evening meal. Anna. Thy handmaid goes in haste. (Exits.) Hadassah. (Brings him zvater in a cup) Drink this, my father, cool, just from the spring. Then will I wash thy feet and fan thy brow. MoRDECAi. Nay, daughter, call a maid to do the task. Hadassah : I love to wait on thee. Forbid me not, The while we talk together. Mordecai : No daughter Of my loins could be to me what thou art, Hadassah ! Hadassah. I quite forget I am not thine own child. Thou knowest I recall no other sire ; Thou hast been all my parents from my youth. Mordecai : I oft remember how a tiny babe I took thee from thy dying mother's arms. A strong man was thy father, but the exile Quite broke his heart : my father's, too, but he Was bent with years. He was the eldest son Of Shimei's house. Thy father was the youngest. Hadassah. Canst thou remember all those frightful days? THE STAR IN THE EAST ii MORDECAI : No, Hadassah, I was too young. Yet I Remember well the grief of all my kin ; Those tears of age so scalding to a babe. I saw my father full of years bowed down With sorrow to his grave. I saw My haughty kinsmen bend their necks beneath The yoke, and kiss the rod. I saw our ways Despised ; our customs flouted ; our worship Made a mock ; our God denied, and this fire god, This Ahuramazda, praised in his stead. Yet still I live, and hope, and pray, and wait. Hadassah : Tell me once more about Jerusalem. MoRDECAI : Ah, Hadassah, I was too young to have my mind Retain much of that splendor. Yet methinks I still can see the temple stand, all glorious. It was built of cedar wood and fir trees Overlaid with gold. Blazoned it was With jewels all within. 'Tis indistinct Yet vivid, like a dream, which comes, then fades. It would seem the tales of Jair, my father. Give it more color than my memory. Hadassah : I wonder if my feet will ever stand Within thy gates, O great Jerusalem? MORDECAI : It is the city of the king. It draws Each Jew, as the lode star doth draw All metals to itself. Hadassah : Our future is so dark, we need a star. MoRDECAI : A star — wait — that reminds me of my dream, A curious dream. A dream I had last night. It came as morning broke and it has held My thoughts until this hour. 12 thp: star in the east Hadassah : Tell it me, Mordecai. MORDECAI : Methought I saw a star of wondrous light And perfect beauty, rise here in this land And slowly take its way towards the west. Its rays fell on the heathen who fell down And worshipped at its passing. It rested At Jerusalem above the throne of the Messiah. By its light the gentiles saw his majesty And power, and brought him gifts and homage. Angels sang, and even lowly shepherds Saw its beauty. Then it faded, and I awoke. But all this day I've pondered o'er its meaning. Hadassah : How wonderful ! It must foreshadow forth Some great event. What could it mean ? Mordecai : I think it means that one of us shall rise And save this people ; that by his great light The heathen shall perceive and understand Our greatness and the greatness of our God. Hadassah : Would that he might rise soon ! For now we rest In constant peril, do we not, my Father? Mordecai : An exiled race, which by its conquerors Is held in scorn and hatred, must always be In peril of its life. We are a shred, A remnant of a once mighty people, Yet we hold the faith. Through Red Sea perils, Through the wilderness, the Lord our God hath Brought us, by his grace. Oft hath he saved us From wicked men and our own naughtiness. We have been scattered and made subject for THE STAR IN THE EAST 13 Our great transgressions. Still there's a remnant left. Still there is leaven, to leaven the whole lump. The Lord is on our side, so we care not What man can do against us ! Hadassah : I shall be Ever thinking of thy dream. We'll watch Each night at dusk for the new star. We must Not miss it. MORDECAI : It will find us as always On the watch. There, (As she puts on his sandals again.) I am much refreshed. (The maidens enter and put food before Mordecai and HadassahJ Bless Thou this food, O Lord. (The maidens zvait on them passing food and water, etc.) Hadassah : Thou hast not told me if there is aught new About the palace. Didst thou see Hegai? Mordecai : Yes, I have talked to him. Thou knewest his mother Was a Jew, a Bcnjamite, dead at his birth? He was brought up quite ignorant of all Our sacred customs, and of the true God. I talked to him to-day. Hegai hath abandoned This Mazdao, this deity of fire. To worship our Lord God. Outwardly he 14 THE STAR IN THE EAST Gives lip service like so many others Who follow Zoroaster, but in his heart He's with us. Ah, I had most forg^ot, He told me some small gossip of the court. It seems last night the king, Ahasuerus, Gave a great feast to satraps of his realm And many visiting princes from afar. When heated with much wine, he offered them A vision of the beauty of his queen. fHADASSAii utters an exclamation of astonishment.) I know, my daughter, 'twas unworthy, quite. But Hegai says that he was mad with wine. She, too, was feasting with her womenkind When came a slave commanding her to come To the king's presence in her royal robes, Hadassah. And she? MORDECAI : Refused. Then sent he seven men. His chamberlains, to bring her to his side. This time she sent a haughty answer back Saying she was no show for lesser men. But just the king, her soverign and her lord. Then waxed the king exceeding wroth, and so Did all the princes who did banquet there, Saying, "If so the queen may disobey, No woman in the kingdom will bow down And do her husband's will." At this the king Demands what he should do with such A stiff-necked woman? Straight made they answer, "Let her be cast down from her high estate, and made a slave Where she has ruled a queen ; then seek throughout Thy kingdom for a maid, who shall be worthy To enjoy the light of thy most august Presence, and to sit beside thee on thy throne THE STAR IN THE EAST 15 In royal state, and yet obedient To thy smallest wish." Hadassah. And did the king in this wise? MORDECAI : Hegai was not sure. He doubteth much If Ahasuerus will degrade the queen. She holds him in the hollow of her hand. For she is like the moon flower at the dusk For beauty. Rose petals fresh with dew, Such is her skin ; her breath is lily perfume, And her eyes do shine like stars upon A winter's night. His heart is tangled in her Rippling hair, and will not easily be taken thence. Hegai thinks the morn will make him pause When fumes of wine have died out of his brain. Hadassah : How could she trifle with a love so great? "The king he is thy Lord ; him shalt thou serve." So says the psalmist. Mordecai : Yes, but David's words Form not the rule of life for such as she. Hadassah. Hast seen Lord Haman? Mordecai : Aye, he waxeth great And greater every day. Alone I stood Erect in all the crowd who bowed and fell Down prostrate as he passed. If looks could kill Then would I live no more, for in his eyes Were poisoned arrows set to strike Upon my heart, and slay me as I stood. Hadassah. I fear him, Father. Mordecai : I do fear him, too, But more I fear to bow myself before A man or image. Jews abase themselves But to their God, and I — I am a Jew. i6 THE STAR IN THE EAST My veins run hot with Wood of mighty kings. I will not bow to Human though I die. Nor yet. he'll find has he become so great That he dare try to force me to his will. (Enter Anna in great excitement.) Anna: O master, hast thou heard the edict sent Through all the land, and posted on the gates Of Shusan? MORDECAI : An edict, damsel? Pray what says the skin ? Anna: It orders that fair virgins shall be sought And brought from far and near to Hegai ; He. when their purification shall be done Will bring the.se to the king for him to choose; And if there be a maiden fair enough, Ahasuerus, even our mighty king, Will take her to himself and make her queen, And place her on the throne, the throne of Vashti. And rumor goes that haughty Vashti has become A slave ! Mordecai. Then it was true as Hegai hath said! Hadassah : \^'hat power for good hath Vashti cast aside? To serve as slave where once she reigned the queen ! Anna: Methinks that every Persian maid will try To deck her charms, and pray that Hegai May find her fair ; then will she have the chance To pass in turn before the king himself. Hadassah. (Musingly) She should be like the almond tree in bloom. With eyes like flax flowers after summer rain ! THE STAR IN THE EAST 17 Her walk should be the lily in the wind ; Her hair spun sunshine ; while her dewy lips Should be pomegranates parted over pearls ! MoRDECAi. (Who has been listening and ivatch- ing Hadassahj Nay, Hadassah — and why should not her hair Be like ripe olives, or the raven's wing? Her eyes, be forest pools at midnight? Vashti was fair: perchance the mighty king Would rather choose a maid of darker hue. (With a wave of the hand he dismisses the maids zvho have been serving the food. Then he turns to Anna J I fain would be alone with Hadassah. (All exit except Mordecai and Hadassah. A long pause during which he walks up and down. She looks wonderingly at him.) My daughter, has thou never thought to wed? Hast seen a man who stirs thy maiden heart? Hadassah : Why ask me that, my Father? Well thou knowest All my acquaintance. Though I am lowly Yet I can't forget that thou and I Are of a kingly line. No man has stirred my pulse, Nor no man should, unless he be as noble As myself. Mordecai : I knew we were a stiff-necked generation. I did expect an answer no less proud. (He pauses.) Wilt go to Hegai and prefer thy claims i8 THE STAR IN THE EAST To be presented to this Persian king? Hadassaii. (Astonished) If it should be thy wish, so is it mine, But, Father, well thou knowest that no Jew Could ever hope to sit upon the throne. MORDECAI : Why need it to be known thou art a Jew? None except Hegai need the secret share, Nor he if we think wise. He hath not seen Thy charms. He does not know thee for my daugh- ter; Though I should deem it best, since Hegai Is my friend, that he should know the secret Of thy race. Hadassah 3 But my name ? None but a Jewess is called Hadassah. MORDECAI : Hadassah shall vanish. In her place shall come A maid of Persian name. All except Hegai Will think she comes from distant parts. Hadassah. Anna could go with me? MoRDECAi. If thou desirest. Hadassah : I love her more than all my handmaidens, And she hath knowledge far above her station. May we consult her? MoRDECAi. As you please. Hadassah. (Goes to door and calls) Anna! ('Anna enters.) Anna. Here am I, Mistress. Hadassah : Anna, I would speak Upon a matter of most grave import. Mordecai desires I try my fortune THE STAR IN THE EAST 19 To appear before the king. Anna: O wonderful ! So shalt thou be the queen And reign in Vashti's stead Hadassah : Silence, Thou chatterer! There is small hope That I should be the choice among such hosts Of beauty. If I go, wilt thou go with me As a Persian miad ? For none must know our race. Anna: Gladly will I go, and stay forever by thee, If so Ahasuerus should choose thee To be his queen. MORDECAI : That choice is with the Lord. We will pray to him. If it be his will That Hadassah be queen, perchance great good May come to all us Jews, who languish Exiles in this foreign land. Anna: But how Shall we be called, that none shall know our birth Or race ? MORDECAI. We must consider that. Thou canst answer to Nicaso ; 'tis a name Well known and common : now for Hadassah Anna. (Looking lovingly at her mistress) It needs must be a name as beautiful As she herself. Such name were hard to find. Hadassah : Thou flatterer! Ah, Anna, if all the world Saw with thine eyes I should be queen indeed. Anna. 'T would be thy right. Mordecai : Peace, chatterers ! 20 THE STAR IN THE EAST This business cannot wait. We needs must choose A name. Then I'll away to Hegai And ask if he'll present thee to the king. Let us consider. Likest thou Nourmahal? Hadassah : Light of the Harem? Nay, I like it not. It soundeth like a concubine, not queen. MoRDECAi. Light of the world Nourjehan. Lik- est thou that? Anna. 'Tis hard to speak. It sticks upon the tongue. MoRDECAi. Zobcide? Zulicka? What of those? Hadassah. (Shaking her head) I like them not. I think no foreign name Would suit my fancy. Choose thou alone. Really it matters not what I am called For a brief twelvemonth. MORDECAI : Hadassah, I feel 'Tis for no twelvemonth, but for all thy days. Anna: I like the sound of Esther, for a queen : Queen Esther — that is music to the ears. The king's the sun, the queen should be a star, A glowing star rather than the cold moon These Persians love so much. MORDECAI : Esther! A star! A star was in my dream. God spoke The word with Anna's lips. It is a sign Thou shalt be queen and more ; for by thy light These heathen shall see clear, and in thy rising Our race that languishes in night and fear Shall rise again. The Lord is with us. He Hath told thy name. The Lord shall keep Thy going and thy coming, from this time forth And still forevermore. Blessed be Our Lord, THE STAR IN THE EAST 21 The God of Israel, from everlasting Even to everlasting. Anna and Hadassah. Amen. MORDECAI : I go to Hegai. Prepare thyself To enter in his custody. (He takes her in his arms.) Farewell, my Hadassah. Like Abraham of old I offer thee to God to do his will, With certain faith that he will save my child As he did Isaac from the knife and fire. Remember always thou art Esther now, The bright star of my dream. Through Hegai I'll send thee counsel oft and messages Of comfort and of love. Art pleased, my daughter? Hadassah : I am content as always, Mordecai, T^ do thy will. Mordecai : I hope to bring great news When I return. Again farewell. The Lord Watch between thee and me when we are absent From one another. f Hadassah bows her head as he blesses her and ex- its.) Anna: Esther, the queen! It hath a pleasing sound. Like to the bulbul singing to the night. Hadassah. (Musing) Like to the bulbul singing to his mate. I wonder, — will the king of all the world Desire my darkness? Vashti was so fair. 22 THE STAR IN THE EAST Anna: She was the sun at noon, who scorches those Who bask within her light. Thou with thy raven hair And eyes like midnight pools ; with thy soft smile And wise and tender heart, art like the cool night After a fierce day, which all men sigh for. Hadassah : I pray thy words prove true. But get thee Again to work. HI surely need the fair Fruit of thy loom. {'Anna returns to her weaving, and Esther sits again. She picks up the scroll and turning it, apparently idly, begins to read aloud.) "Forget also thine own people and thy father's house ; So shall the king desire thy beauty : (A pause.) She shall be led unto the king in broidered work : The virgins her companions that follow her shall be brought unto thee. With gladness and rejoicing shall they be led: They shall enter into the king's palace. (A^ain she pauses and sits dreaming a moment.) I will make thy name to be remembered in all gen- erations !" (An exalted expression comes over her face, the scroll drops from her hand and she gases as though into the future as the curtain slowly falls.) ACT II One year has elapsed. The scene is the inside of a great tent in the gardens of the king's palace. It is hung with magnificent draperies of white and green and blue. An en- trance at left draped with a curtain, gives ad- mittance from, the women's quarters. At left and right back are two other entrances, from both of which the curtains are partly draped back. At the right is seen the entrance to a pas- sageway. This passagezvay leads to the women's apartments in the palace proper. Near the center of the stage is a raised dais on which is the royal divan. Back and to the right of it is a low table with scrolls and writ- ing materials with a stool behind on which will sit the scribe or maker of chronicles. There are a few other divans near the dais and in the lower left corner is a pile of cushions on which will re- cline the virgins zvho are to be inspected to-day. At rise of the curtain, Haman, a handsome figure in court dress, enters by the opening at the right center. A moment later the curtain at the left, the entrance to the zvomen's apartments, is drawn aside, and a beautiful slave enters. This is Vashti, formerly the queen. She ad- vances cautiously but stops on seeing Haman, and waits for him to approach. ^3 24 THE STyXR IN THE EAST Ha MAN : Away, slave ! (Suddenly recognising her.) Vashti ! This is madness ! Disgrace for me, and death perchance for you If we are seen. Vashti : You did not use to fear My presence. Haman. You sought my favours On your bended knees. Haman. The times have changed. Vashti : Ay, And may change again. Take care, Lord Haman, Lest in fear, thou be not always on The winning side, thou dost not overleap ! Mine were the favours which made thee what thou art! Take care, thou dost not need my help again ! Haman. (Fawningly) I need all help, and I would give all help, But now a twelvemonth's slave, thou canst not hope The king takes thought of thee. Vashti : I know he does. He can find none but me to fill his arms. He longs for me in watches of the night. Remembrance of my charm hath made him pass A hundred virgins by unnoticed. Four only now remain. Think you he'll find A queen among those few? But yesterday I heard he asked of me. I shall return. Haman : Perchance. I know he grows impatient. And is moody because he finds no maid To take thy place. But what can Haman do? Vashti : Bring me to mind. Talk of my beauty. THE STAR IN THE EAST 25 How wonderful I looked upon his throne! How worthy the great honor once he gave! Haman : No man dare speak thy name before the king. Vashti : Which means, thou dare not. Coward that thou art ! Then go ! The time will come when thou wilt wish Thou hadst paid heed to slave as well as queen ! Haman : I'll guard against that time. ('Vashti, zvith a look of hatred, slips back between the curtains of the door just as Hegai and Mor- DECAi etitcr at left center. Haman proudly ac- knoivledges the salute of Hegai zvho salaams low before him. Mordecai inclines his head as Haman does. Haman turns to him.) Haman: Insolent Jew, Upon thy servile knees I Mordecai. Lord Haman, I kneel but before my God. Haman : Take heed, dog, I will bring thee to the ground Beneath my feet ere I am done with thee. ^Haman exits left center.) Hegai : Thou makst a bitter enemy of him. Would thou couldst give lip service as I do ; He grows in favour daily. Good were it To have him for thy friend. Mordecai : Hegai, Not for the favour of the king himself 26 THE STAR IN THE EAST Would my knees crook except to God, my Lord. Hegai : Thou'rt bent on self-destruction. I have learned 'Tis hard to stand upright in palace walls. MORDECAI : I walk in palaces as I would walk Upon Judea's hills — a Hebrew prince! What news of Esther? Hegai : She's like a doe beside the water brooks For beauty. She'll be among these last The king doth view to-day. He wearies Of the business. Few are kept even as concubines. The most he hath returned to their own homes. I hope, and yet I dread the outcome. Much I fear his thoughts still turn to Vashti. Bitter and full of hatred at her fall She'd work great evil should she mount again. MORDECAI : Could I have speech with Esther? My heart yearns To hear her voice, lo, now these many days. Hegai : 'Tis a great risk, but I might run it if There still be time. Bide here a moment. I seek Shaashgaz, to learn the time the king Would seek the maids. Stay out of sight In case some one appears. 'Tis better that No man should see thee here. ('Hegai exits and Mordecai moves over behind the dais near the tabic of the scribe. From this place he is out of sight of the actors in the next scene, zvhile he can see and overhear. Again Vashti cautiously pushes aside the curtain, and thinking the tent is empty steals to the door by which Mordecai and Hegai entered. As she approaches this entrance, Bigthan and Te- THE STAR IN THE EAST 27 RESH appear in the doorway. She beckons them to come in and the three go down to left front.) Vashti : I'm glad that thou art come. A moment hence I hurried out thinking I heard thy tread And met Lord Haman, proud Amalekite ! Cowardly dog! Teresh : Did he ignore thy blood, thy royal state ? Vashti : He but remembered that I am a slave, A former stepping stone to his high place. BiGTHAN. (Putting his hand on his sword) Thou still hast kinsmen ! Say, shall we avenge ? Vashti. Lop not the branch ; it falls when falls the trunk. Teresh. The trunk? What meanest thou? Surely not the Vashti : King? Perhaps. Why not? He is a mortal man Whom steel will kill. To-day he sees the last Of all those virgins offered for his queen. But one has any chance, a rose of dusk, I curse the day whereon she saw the light ! Yet there is hope. If none of these succeed Then may I mount again. He needs But small excuse to bend his pride to his desire. And if I triumph, weep, my enemies! But should he choose a maid, I languish here A slave forever, while my kinsmen, you Will fall as surely as the ripened fruit. A new queen will have minions of her own. Bigthan. What shall we do? We wait but thy commands. 28 THE STAR IN THE EAST Vashti : Ahasuerus shall not see the night Of that dark day he takes another queen ! Teresh. Thou hast a plan? Vashti : I have ; and 'twill succeed If in my kinsmen's veins runs blood not milk. Teresh : The thought of all thy wrongs makes them run fire. Say on, what is thy will? Vashti: Through yonder passage way the king must go To lead the virgin to the royal rooms ; If he doth choose a queen, stand you within The folds on either side and stab him deep As he goes by. BiGTHAN. And we ? Vashti : Escape outside Before the hue and cry. Then enter by this door Aghast of countenance and torn with grief. Teresh : That will we do. The trunk shall fall in sooth, And many branches will be carried down And much fruit spilled when we have done our work. Vashti : Here are two daggers, cunningly prepared With points that bite and poison as they strike. Take care you are not scratched. Go ! Linger not ! BiGTHAN : No queen shall ever sit in Vashti's place! Teresh : Burn incense to Mazdao for his aid ! Vashti : Quick, some one comes ! CVashti slif>s back into the door at the left, zvhile THE STAR IN THE EAST 29 BiGTHAN and Teresh disappear down the pas- sage at the right. As they vanish Mordecai sits in the scribe's seat and is writing rapidly as Hegai enters.) Hegai : The king will make his choice within the hour. He's in a hasty and impatient mood. I fear no maid will please. What dost thou, friend? Thou must be off. I dare not let thee wait ; Mordecai : One moment only. I would send a word To Esther, but a line. (He continues writing, then hands the scroll to Hegai. j Give this to her And bid her to mark its contents well, Then give it to the king. I'll wait without. Thou'll 't tell me the result when it is known? Hegai : Trust me, my friend, I know a father's heart. Pray to thy God. If He hath any power He'd best show it to-day. I've never seen The king in such a mood. Mordecai : God is our refuge and our strength ; A very present help in time of trouble. I go to pray to Him. ('Mordecai exits. Hegai claps his hands and armed black slaves enter and take their stations one on either side of each door. Hegai then goes to the left entrance and raises the curtain.) Hegai : Quick, with the maidens! Is all ready? 30 THE STAR IN THE EAST A Slave. (As she enters) They come at once, my lord. ^Slaves, Vashti among them, enter and arrange the cushions in lower left of stage. Then enter the four maidens zvith their handmaids, among whom are I^sther and Nicaso. The virgins are veiled. They recline upon the cushions, while their handmaidens arrange a last fold of their robes or an escaped tress of hair, so that they may appear more perfect before the king. Hegai, standing in center of stage, calls Esther to him, just before she is about to sit.) Hegai. Esther ! Esther. (As she approaches) Yes, Hegai. Hegai : Thy father bade me give this scroll to thee. Mark what it says, then give it to the king If chance doth serve. He's in an impatient mood. If thou canst sooth him, thou'll't deserve a crown. Esther: I can but try. I pray the Lord anoint me With oil of gladness ; make the king to see The love I bear him. Love doth work all things. Hegai. I hope, but have small faith. Back, to thy place ! ^Esther returns and reads the scroll given her by Hegai. There is a fanfare of trumpets and the curtain at the right center is lifted by two slaves. Then two slaves armed zvith great axes enter and take their places on either side of the dais. Then comes the scribe who takes his place at the table. Shaashgaz and Harbonah enter and wait on either side of the door as the king comes through. They then join and accompany THE STAR IN THE EAST 31 him to the divan on the dais, where he sits, while they stand near him. After these come two more armed slaves. The king is dressed in a costly crimson robe. On his head is a richly jewelled turban. He carries a small golden scep- tre, and has a dagger in his sash. Hegai ap- proaches the throne. The king extends his sceptre to him perfunctorily. Hegai prostrates himself. The four virgins rise.) Ahasuerus : Thy maidens are not worth a kingly glance. The last I would not have for concubines. Unveil these maids ! Thy rank and future state Hang in the balance. Thou wast to bring a queen ; Thou hast brought none but slaves. Quick ! Unveil ! Then I'll appoint a judge of womenkind To take thy place. Hegai. (Prostrating himself) O king, have mercy ! Well, I know no maid is worthy of thy grace, Because thou art perfection. From Ethiop To the Ind I've searched ; May one Find favour in thy sight ! (At the King's bidding the maids have unveiled. Now, at a sign from Hegai they come to the foot of the dais.) Ahasuerus : Damsels, approach; and let me see thine eyes. (Suddenly he notices Esther. He looks at her ay though fascinated. He waves the others back and rising comes slowly towards her. Hegai Txnth the others draws back, watching the King with anxiety and hope.) 32 THE STAR IN THE EAST Ahasuerus : Maiden ! What art thou called? Esther. Esther, my lord. King: Esther? A star? Thou art a star indeed. The evening star that glimmers in the dusk ; The star of morning ere the dawn appears ; The star of love in my long night of gloom. Why art thou here? Esther: To be thy handmaid, lord, or else thy slave. I would rest near thy presence and reflect The light thy countenance sheds on all around. Thou wert my love from my youth up. In dreams I served thee as a child. I see thee And I'm like to swoon with joy. King: Thou art the new moon in the purple dusk! Thou art the almond tree in early spring! Thy eyes are like deep pools beside a rock ; Thy breath the breeze that blows from orange flow- ers ; Thy hands are butterflies ; thy maiden form Is as a lily swaying in the wind. I love thee ! I have longed for thee at night ; And at the dawn, and in the noontide heat ; I wanted thee when in the camphire trees The bulbul sang; thou art to other maids As sapphire stones to clay. Dost love me, Esther? Esther : O king, my heart doth open at thy words As lotus lilies to the sun at noon. (She prostrates herself before him.) Thou art my sun ; I live but in thy light ; THE STAR IN THE EAST 33 My soul lies open for my lord to see. King. (Lifting her up and embracing her) Kneel not to me ; so falls the cowering slave, And I would have thee for my love, my queen, My risen star to shine o'er all the world, And reign with me in ever royal state. Esther : Thy handmaid sinks in ecstasy beneath Thy royal favour. King: My senses win before thy loveliness ! Even this night shall see our wedding feast. Then will I gratify thy lightest wish ; Cities shall send their ransom unto thee; Tyre's offering shall be her rarest silks ; Artificers in Ninevah shall know No rest, till thou art laden down with gold Worked cunningly as none but they know how ; The Ind shall send thee ointments sweet, and pearls ; Thebes shall bring ivory ; while maids Of Babylon shall broider costly veils To shield thy face. What shall I give thee for a wedding gift? Ask to the half of all my kingdom's worth. Esther : king, my lord. I ask a single boon ; Read thou the contents of this scroll. Sent by a friend ; 'tis for thine eyes alone. Ahasuerus. (Frowning) Another's favour? 1 had rather thou preferred a wish of thine. (His expression changes as he reads.) "Know that Bigthan and Teresh have plotted with Vashti to kill the king if he shall choose a 34 THE STAR IN THE EAST queen. In proof thereof they lurk hetween the curtains of the passage which leadeth to the apartments for the queen. Upon their persons are two daggers sharp, tipped with a deadly drug, so that a scratch will end his life. "Signed, "MORDECAI." Quick, slaves! Search in the hangings of the way That leadeth to the palace. We will know If there is aught of truth in what he writes. CHarbonah leading the 7vay, four slaves bring forth BiGTHAN and Teresh from the passage. Vasiiti stands among the women slaves in fear and anger at the frustration of her plans.) Search for their daggers. Careful ! They are tipped With venom deadly as an adder's tongue. (There is a slight scuffle as the slaved take the wea- pons. They display the two daggers to the King.; Fools! Who enjoyed my favours! (He again mounts the dais, taking Esther ivith him. He zvraps her in his cloak as he draws her down beside him on the divan. He turns to the two conspirators.) The music of a jealous woman's tongue Hath lured thee to thy doom, and made thee strike The root that nourished thy tree of life! Away with them to slow and torturing death ! Let multitudes behold their agonies THE STAR IN THE EAST 35 That all may know the fate which waits for those Who dare attempt aught evil 'gainst their Lord. Teresh. (Falling in the arms of the slaves) Too late, O king ! Dark death is not thy slave To come and go as thou dost order. BiGTHAN. (As he, too, falls dying) The poison of these daggers was well made! Ahasuerus : Treacherous to the last ! Take them away, They're carrion for the dogs ! One yet is left Who shall not so escape. (He glances tozvards the corner where Vashti cow- ers, while the slaves remove the bodies of Te- resh and BiGTHAN.j Hegai. What of the slave, O king? Ahasuerus : Hegai, Thou shalt answer for her Hfe. She shall not die. Death were too good for her. Nay, she shall live And see my happiness. She shall thirst for my favour as he thirsts Who travels without drink for many days In a great desert, and sinks down at last In sight of crystal pools he may not reach ; Hearing the plashing stream he may not touch ; While others bathe and drink beneath the shade. ('Vashti gives a moaning cry as she sinks down and slaves drag her out of door at left. The King turns to Esther.) My star, this was no boon for thy sweet self ; It was a gift, a princely gift from thee ; The gift to me of life, now doubly precious 36 THE STAR IN THE EAST Since I have thy love. Health, power and riches, These I had before ; within the hour thou'st Added love and life. A gift fit for a queen To bring her lord. Esther. (Pointing to the scroll) My lord, I brought thee love, 'twas all I had, The life was from another. AlIASUERUS: But through thy hand. (He takes her hand and presses it to his lips.) That hand as soft and white, as almond petals 'Neath a silver moon. I had forgot. (He turns to the scribe and hands him the scroll.) Inscribe this in our book of chronicles. "This Mordecai, who giveth life to kings, I shall delight to honour." Put it down, "That King Ahasuerus was by him. Saved from two serpents." He will find, the King Of all the World knows how to recompense. (He turns to Esther and leads her doivn from the dais.) Come, my star, Shaashgaz shall lead thee with thy womenkind. To the apartments set aside for thee. Thy royal robes await thee. Now farewell, Until our wedding feast. Each hour will seem A year, a century, until I hold Thee in my arms, my queen. ('Shaashgaz precedes her with slaves, followed by THE STAR IN THE EAST 37 NiCASo a7id another handmaid. Then the King and Esther approach the entrance to the pas- sagezmy as the curtain slowly falls.) ACT III Scene I Tzvo years have elapsed. The scene is laid in a small tiring room in the apartments of Queen Esther in the palace at Shusan. An entrance at left and at center back to be closed with cur- tains. At the rise of the curtain the queen is seen re- clining on a divan while two or three female slaves or handmaidens are adorning her. One combs her long hair and entwines it with jew- elled chains. One tints her fingernails with henna. One anoints her feet with perfumed ointment and then puts on her sandals. She is dressed in a rose-colored robe of soft, heavy silk and holds a metal mirror in her hand. At her right near the head of the couch is a low stand whereon are apples in a dish and a dish of sweetmeats. A flagon of wine also stands there, with a golden goblet. She sips this from time to time. Esther: I'll wear my pearls to-day. Their rainbow tints And shy soft gleam suit well my present mood. Emeralds and rubies, those bright gems whose sparks 38 THE STAR IN THE EAST 39 Incite and charm, I'll don whene'er the king Pleases to send for me. (Holds up a string of pearls.) Strange swelling beauties! Brought forth in agony to hide the pain Within a narrow shell. Thee will I wear To show my heart doth languish for its lord. f NiCASO enters with a large tray bearing many pots and bundles and boxes of herbs and ointments.) What hast thou there? NiCASo : O queen, a dusky merchant of the Ind, Here offers ambergris, and camphire leaves. Spikenard and saffron, myrrh and cinnamon. Aloes, frankincense, and the oils of rose And jasmine flowers. Here's calamus, And unguent made in secret, which he swears Will keep the flesh like roses steeped in musk. What shall I buy? Esther : I know not which to choose. Spices and herbs do always tempt my purse. Q — let me have them all ! Doth he bring silks Or stuff of camel's hair? NiCASo: No. O queen. This Indian brings but wares as thou seest here. (She puts dozvn her tray and gases admiringly at the Queen. J How very fair thou art to-day, my Esther! Hath the king sent for thee to come to him 40 THE STAR IN THE EAST After these many days? Esther: Alas ! Not yet. Full thirty weary days have dawned and died Since I have seen my lord. NiCASo: It hath been longer Many times before. Esther : Ay, when he journeyed. Or was at the wars. NiCASo: The rumor goes Lord Haman hath been much with him of late. Esther: I fear that man. What news of Mordecai? NiCASO : All yesterday he stood outside the gate That's called the king's in sackcloth and in shame, As he hath stood for many days before. Esther : But what of Hegai ? By him I sent Fine raiment to my father, and a chain Of purest gold. NiCASo : He would none of it And sent it back. Esther : His actions grieve me sore. What sorrow hath befallen that he should weep And wail these many days outside the gate? ^Esther sighs and Nicaso approaches her timidly.) NicASo: O mistress mine, wouldst read again the psalms THE STAR IN THE EAST 41 Which oft of old broug-ht comfort when thy heart Was weighed with grief ? Esther : Thanks, my Nicaso. Many moons have waned since I have read King David's hymns. I fear I had forgot A Persian queen needs the same counsel As a Jewish maid. Find me the book. But first Finish thy business with this Indian. ^Esther indicates the tray. Enter a Slave. J Slave. Hegai begs leave to have speech with the queen. Esther. Bid Hegai enter, (To NiCASo.j Come not till I call. (Exit the Slave and Nicaso. In a moment Hegai enters, back center. Nicaso goes out at left. Hegai prostrates himself as did the Slave on entering her presence.) Esther : Arise, and tell thy business. What news Of Mordecai? Why hath he refused my gift? Hegai : O queen, I come from Mordecai direct To thee. He will have speech with thee. Esther : It is impossible. Thou knowest no man Save thou, may enter here, except the king Himself. He's surely mad ! Hegai : He doth insist. He says that life and death Depend upon this interview. 42 THE STAR IN THE EAST Esther : It might be death for all if he should come! Can he not write? Hegai : O queen, thou hast his message. If thou wilt, it can be done. He waits without Wrapped in a heavy cloak as any eunuch. Let no handmaiden or no slave come in Then is the danger small. (A pause as Esther hesitates.) It is thy father's will. Is it thine, too? Esther. (After a moment's hesitation) His will should still be mine. Bid him come in. (She snatches up a heavy veil and covers her face with it. Hegai exits and a moment later Mor- decai wrapped in a heavy cloak zvhich com- pletely envelopes him, enters. He comes in with a stately stride. As the curtain closes behind him he lets fall his cloak and stands clad only in a garment of sackcloth tied around the waist with a hempen cord. Esther draws back in dismay at sight of his costume. He stands with folded arms looking at her.) Mordecat. Peace to thee, Hadassah, and all this house ! Esther. (Murmurs automatically) And to thee, Father, and to all thy race ! MoRDECAi. Take oft thy veil. I'd see my daugh- ter's face. (She slowly removes the veil, then she comes towards him with outstretched arms, but he does not un- THE STAR IN THE EAST 43 fold his arms, and she stands before hint, her face expressing dismay and astonishment. In his presence it seems as though the Queen of Persia had once more become only the Jewish maiden.) Thou startst back at my garb ; and yesterday Thou send'st me rich apparel. Wouldst thou heal A sore by covering it up ? Esther: What is thy sore? Why art thou angry, Father? I sought to cover up thy nakedness : Say, why was that displeasing in thy sight? MORDECAI : Thou sittest in" the palace of the king; On silken cushions stuffed with softest down; Thy ears are filled with music such as steals Away all thought and care ; perfumes are in Thy nostrils, and thy flesh anointed With sweet oils is wrapped in silk and linen Fine as the web of spiders. For this was Esther brought into the world ? Thinkst thou that this is life? Then think again! Hast thou forgot thyself, thy kin, thy race . Hast thou forgot thy God, my Hadassah? Even as thou sittest, death knocketh at thy door. Esther: Thy words are riddles, Mordecai. Are comforts then So deadly ? Mordecai : Ay, when they stuff the ears 'gainst duty's call. Esther : What should I do that I have left undone? Mordecai : Dost thou not know that even at this hour 44 THE STAR IN THE EAST Hainan is closeted with thy lord, the king, Plotting thy death and that of all thy race? Ah, now thou start'st, yet I have hut hegun. As day hy day this Haman's power hath grown So day by day hath grown his wrath and hate Against thy father and against our race. I would not crook my knee to win his grace. I would not bow my head to such as he — An Amalekite, a base-born heathen cur — Though he should sit upon the very throne Of the king's self. So hath he sworn revenge. 'Tis now ten moons since he beguiled the king To sign an edict which will put to death All Jews within his realm. Women and babes, Old men and gallant youths, all to be harvested By cruel swords ; and for this he Will pay a mighty sum, ten thousand talents, Into the treasury, so goes the tale. Esther. (White and aghast) When is this hor- rid, horrid doom to fall? MORDECAI : Men came to him, the priests of Mazdao, And cast the Pur or lot, so he might fix A time auspicious for his fiendish work ; It fell on the twelfth month, the thirteenth day. Esther. Ten days from now ! MORDECAI : Thou sayst it. Hence thou seest The time is short. On thee the burden falls. Thou art the star must lead us through this night ! This remnant of a people must be saved ! I named thee, Esther — star — but for this hour ; Dost thou recall my dream ? A star rose up Out of this east, and moving westward stopped Above Jerusalem ; there did it rest Until Messiah came. This remnant must THE STAR IN THE EAST 45 Be saved until he comes. Immanuel, Who shall redeem the world ! It is thy task, My daughter. Esther : Gladly will I try. Ahasuerus Hath not sent for me these thirty days ; Perchance this very hour cometh his summons. Then will I intercede for my poor race. I wait his message. MORDECAI : Wait ! Thou wouldst wait, When every moment lost but seals our doom More surely? Wait! for the pleasure of this Persian king? Go! walk about the streets of Shusan! Hear The weeping and the wailing of the Jews ! Then wait if still thou canst! Esther : But Mordecai, my kinsman, thou knowest well. Who goes unbidden to our mighty king May lose his life. Unless the king extends His golden wand, even a queen's head falls. I saw the head of a prince royal drop Beneath the axe, for such presumption. Mordecai : Wouldst rather hear the death cries of the babes Ring in thine ears when thou wouldst sleep at night. Than take such risk ? Many, like me, are old, Their sands are run, but youth Esther : Father ! They dare not kill thee! Thou art my kinsman! Kinsman of the queen ! Mordecai : Who knows I am thy kinsman ? And besides Thou, too, art of our race. All Jews 46 THE STAR IN THE EAST The (Hlict runs ; and under it thy Hfe Is forfeit. As for me, I will be first To fall before the wrath of the Amalekite. Esther. (Sits horror-stricken before him) O, woe is me; where shall I look for help? MORDECAI : Our help is in the Lord's name, in our God. Hast thou forgot thy psalms? "Yea, though I walk Through the valley of the shadow of death I fear no evil, for Thou art with me." Go to the king, thy Lord ; for this thing wast Thou born. Not to lie down In ivory palaces like heathen queens But like a royal daughter of the Jews To face even death, if need be, for our race ; To go forth in the Lord's name without fear To save his people Israel ! Esther. (Sitting with clasped hands in an agony of spirit. She suddenly rises and stretches out her hands in prayer) "Save me, O God, for the waters Are come into my soul. I sink in deep mire Where there is no standing. I am come Into deep waters where the floods o'erflow me. Hide not thy face from thy servant For I am in trouble." MoRDECAI : Amen. Go now, my Esther, to this king; Go, in the name of thy race, which worships The true God ! Go in thy kinsfolks' name, To whom thou ow'st allegiance ! Go in The name of friends whose lives hang on thy words ! Go, in Jehovah's name, who hath made thee For this hour ! Esther : Father, thy will be done. THE STAR IN THE EAST 47 Pray for me. Keep the fast. Let all the Jews Abstain from meat three days. Send out the word. I go unbidden to my lord, the king ; I perish, if I perish, for their sakes. MORDECAI : This will we do. Use all thy woman's wiles, Thy native wit, to circumvent this man. Now fare thee well. He will not slumber That keepeth thee ; he that keepeth Israel Shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord Bless thee and prosper thee ! (Esther bows her head as Mordecai blesses her, then gathering up his cloak he wraps himself in it and swiftly exits. For a moment Esther re- mains as though stunned, then she straightens her shoulders as though for a burden and claps her hands. Nicaso enters.) Esther : Fetch me my richest robes. I'll wear my cloak Of blue and green, shot with the gold of Ophir. Drench me with roses ; hang rich sapphires On my neck, and in my hair ; bring me My finest veils, my golden crown ; make me As lovely as the rosy morn when first It breaks above the mountain peaks Of high Orontes. Nicaso. The king hath sent for thee? Esther. No. Anna, yet I go unto the king. Nicaso. (Aghast) Esther! My queen! 'Tis death to which you go! Esther : T know, but I must go to save the Jews. Oh, people, that I have so long forgot Amidst this palace's sensual delights ! 48 THE STAR IN THE EAST My people, exiled, poor, despised, forsaken! How could I have forgotten thee so long? I'll save thee, or I'll perish for thy sake. Like Isaac at my father's call, I go To oflfer up my life a sacrifice. God grant it may be pleasing in Thy sight! (As the })uiidcns conic in xvith the royal robes, the curtain falls.) Scene II In the throne room of the palace. It is a magnificent apartment of marble, the roof supported by pil- lars. The pavement is of red, yellow and black marble. Hangings of silk of green and blue and white are fastened with cords to rings of silver. The high throne of ivory and gold stands on a dais near the front. It is zvide and high and above it are draperies of cloth of gold. On either side of it are smaller seats, and in front of one is a little tabouret or stool. On it rest scrolls. On the seat near this stool Haman is sitting at the rise of the curtain. He is holding one of the scrolls which is evidently a map and explaining about it to the King. The King, dressed in his richest robes, leans back on his throne and listens indulgently to Haman as to a favorite. About the room are couches of gold and sil- ver, and on these are sitting chamberlains and other members of the court, among whom are Hegai. Shaasiigaz and Harbonaii. On either side of the throne stand tzvo huge blacks armed with glittering axes. Others guard the door. A THE STAR IN THE EAST 49 company of the King's bodyguard of archers is ranged near the back of the room. In the back center is a great doorway from which the curtain is partly draped back. Be- neath this o,ie may catch a glimpse of the pal- ace gardens lying in the moonlight. On the left is a doorzvay also curtained but closed leading to the apartments of the palace. Flambeaux light the room from tall candlesticks. In a brasier, high and very ornate, burns a sacred fire in zvhich Slaves drop incense from time to time. Wine in gold and silver flagons is being passed by the Slaves, It is a scene of oriental splendor and ease, marked by a certain restraint which ahvays ac- companies the presence of the King. To the right and a little behind the dais is the table of the scribe as in the second act. He sits there as before. As the curtain rises Ahasuerus and Haman are in earnest conversation. More earnest on Haman's part than the King's, zvho seems only mildly interested. Haman. (Shotting scroll) Thou seest here How they extend through all thy kingdom, lord. King: These lawless and unruly people are In all my provinces it seemeth, Haman. Haman : In all, O king. And so they disaffect Thy empire. They keep no laws of life save Only theirs ; they flout Ahuramazda. (Here he makes a slight obeisance towards the braz- ier wherein burns the sacred fire.) 50 THE STAR IN THE EAST They will worship but this Jehovah, God Of Israel, so do they name Him. As I explained when first thou madest the edict, It is not to the profit of the king To suffer them to live. So went I to The temple, and our priests before me cast The Pur, the lot, to say which day should be Their last. Ten days from now Is the appointed time ; then shall they perish ; Every Jewish soul shall be cut off, from Babes to hoary men ; when the sun rises On the fourteenth day of Adar, not a Jew Shall see his light! King: Haman, it Irks me thus to cut off babes and women — I can kill in lust of battle as a Soldier should — but maids and children — Is it expedient thus to deal with them? Haman : Children who live after their sire is killed, Wax stronger on their hate ; besides Thy priests have spoken. King: Yes, I know. Well, let it stand. Thou sayest 'twill bring much gold Into our royal vaults ? Haman : Ten thousand talents at the very least ! These people, though they seem in poverty, Have yet great riches hidden in every house In which they dwell. King: And do they murmur 'Gainst our sacred person? THE STAR IN THE EAST 51 Haman : They flout thee In the persons of thy friends, those thou Art pleased to favour ; yesterday As I rode by the gate, one stood without And would not do me homage. All the throng Fell down before me as a prince of thine Save only he. Erect he stood, and flung A glance of scorn at me, thy servant, Envoy of the king! The people murmured Saying, "Why should we fall prostrate When this man is suffered to remain Upright, and unrebuked?" Sedition starts From such small seeds. King. (After a moment's thought) Thou speakest truth. Do even as thou hast planned. (At this mom,ent the curtain is raised at the left, and Esther in her royal robes appears in the door- way. Her train is home by Slaves and she is supported on either side by two handmaidens, one of whom is Nicaso. Her face is covered with a veil which covers her also from head to foot. She approaches the throne slowly and timidly. The King watches in displeasure, and the two Slaves with axes, who stand on either side the throne, step forward at a sign from him prepared to strike.) Who is this? Who dares to come unbidden To the king? ^Esther throws back her veil and stands at the foot of the dais gazing up into the King's face. As the axe-men step nearer she sinks in a heap at the foot of the throne. Instantly the King holds 52 THE STAR IN THE EAST forth his sceptre and leaping to his feet hastens to gather the Queen in Jiis arms, and seating her beside him on the throne he puts the sceptre into her hands.) My queen ! My star ! Wert thou in fear To come unbidden to our sacred throne? Fear not ! The law of death for such as dared Was for our subjects, not for our own self, Which well thou know'st thou art. Take thou the sceptre! Rule thou in our stead! Why didst thou swoon ? Hast thou recovered quite? My heart stopped beating when I saw thee fall ! Esther : My lord, it is not easy to say why I fell before thee. But when I came And saw thee sitting- on this golden seat In all thy power, thy greatness, and thy might, My spirit failed ; my senses and my soul Seemed to depart. A long, slow moon I've sat In darkness ; and my eyes were blinded When I came into the sun. King: I was on the point To come to thee. It is a century Since I have felt thy beauty like a flood Pour o'er my spirit. Affairs of state have kept me from thy side ; Night after night the dawn has found me still In council over matters of my realm. I would requite thee for thy presence here ; Ask me a boon that I may give it thee, Even to the half of all my mighty land: Wouldst have a city? Great Persepolis? Ecbatana ? Palmyra ? They are thine ! Or I will send to India and bring THE STAR IN THE EAST 53 A ruby for thee bigger than an egg. Which shall it be? Esther: Oh, King, My gracious lord, live thou an hundred years, And when these pass, another hundred, e'en Forever, Lord! One favour would I ask, Of thy beneficence. King : 'Tis thine before The words fall on mine ears. Esther : I pray that thou And this great lord, high Haman as he stands Beside thy royal throne, would come when the Round sun hath set for the third time, and share With me a banquet I'll prepare. I beg thou'lt so far honour me, my lord ? King: What sayest, Haman? Will the days not seem A thousand years until we share This banquet with our queen ? Haman. (Bowhig lozv) Most sovereign lady ! Thy servant hath been Honoured far beyond his high deserving. Until three days, I shall have but one thought To bid me live — that I'm to banquet With my king and queen ! (He makes a low obeisance to them both, then turns TO the King.; May I depart a moment From thy sight? I would give last instructions Concerning that grave matter and the plans Of which we spoke. 54 THE STAR IN THE EAST King. (Graciously) But for a moment; For the candles dim in this bright court When they reflect no more the light of Haman's presence. (Again Haman bows low and exits, by the door through 7i'hich the Queen entered. The King turtis again to Esther. j Each time I greet thee after many days, I do recall the time I saw thee first, When thy fresh beauty struck upon my heart, Blinding my eyes to all else in the world ! (He turns to the scribe seated behind the throne.) Read me again the record made that night ; I do recall it dimly. (To Queen. J Wilt thou hear? Esther. Thy will is mine. King. Read, slave! Scribe : "On this night Ahasuerus hath been saved From the dread bite of two fierce serpents, By the Jew, Mordecai ; him would our king Delight to honour." King. (Interrupting) Ah, now I remember! And how did I reward this Mordecai? Scribe. There is no record, Lord. King: What ? No honour hath been paid to such a man ? (Enter Haman. He approaches the throne and the King extends his sceptre as he prostrates him- self.) THE STAR IN THE EAST 55 Arise, O Haman, I would have thine ear. Thou art the man of all the world, whose Counsel I desire. Because thou art my friend. Sincere, and true, I ask for thy advice. How shall I honour one whom I love greatly ; Whom I would reward after the manner And in such a wise as doth agree With my magnificence? ^Haman stands silent for a moment. He is evi- dently under the impression that the King is speaking of him.) Speak freely, From thy heart. I feel no honour is too great for him ! Haman. (Smiling in self-satisfaction) \i that be so, O king, thus would I do And I were in thy stead. Say to the noblest prince within thy court, "Go to this man ; wrap him in royal robes, Even such robes as wears the king himself, Purple, and linen, and a chain of gold About his neck. Let this same noble Lead this man before the king and make Obeisance very low before the throne ; But let this man stand upright as though equal Even with Ahasuerus. Then let this prince Place him upon the king's most favorite horse, Upon whose head the royal crown is set, And lead him through the city's crowded streets, Crying aloud, "This is the man, our king Doth most delight to honour with his love!" So shall the people know the recompense Thou metest out to him who wins thy favour. King: 56 TH1-. STAR 1\ rill- lASr Thou sayest well. Go. Do a>; thou hast said! CfCt Mordocai. the Jew. Clothe him iti robes Such as our owu. Briiiqf hitu botore our face. He shall standi uprig^ht wbeti thou bow'st thyself. Then efo l>etore his horse ami make the cry Even as thou hast spoken. For thou Art ever my true friend, and thy advice Is g^od. (Crt'stfaUt'n. H.\m.\n tnakrs a f^rofottnd obi'isanci' bcfoft' the throtu\ and tjot's sloicly i'I(/ hisses his hand.) Esther: Great art thou, my Lord! Thy benefits are ever just and ri5::ht ! King: justice should ever sit beside a kinq:. it is her place. No thanks are due for that. 'Tis mercy that should bring forth gratitude. • (Looks at her aJtuirifujly.) O queen, thou art as lovely as the rose That blooms at dawn. Thy beauty jjrcets me .\s the sun at morn, reneweil in splemlor By his nis:^ht of rest. Dost ever love me? Esther: T,ord. thou knowest well. My heart is over thine, both now and always! K 1 N G : Thine eyes are pools of truth. Thou art my love! (He turns to the Scribe.^ THE STAR IN THE EAS'i 57 Till Haman comes again, read to us more About the early days of this our reign. Scribe. So be it. Lord. (Reads.) "And it came to pass in the days when King Ahasuerus came to the throne, he ruled over a great kingdom, even all the world, to Ethiopia and the Indies. And he set governors over the hundred and twenty-seven provinces in the third year of his reign, and there was great rejoicing. And it came to pass at that time that he made a costly feast for his friends, and for the nations of Persia, and for their governors, such as was proper for the king to make. After which he made a feast for other nations and for their ambassadors at Shusan. Moreover he sent mes- sengers through the country and gave orders that they should have a remission of their la- bours, and should keep festival many days on account of his kingdom." (The King holds up his hand as a sign for the Scribe to cease reading.) King: A worthy chronicle That doth mind me of one who once was proud, So proud, she braved the order of her Lord, And even plotted 'gainst his royal life. (He pauses and muses a moment.) O queen, thou hast among thy slaves A certain one named Vashti. For a jest, That she may see with her own envious eyes And hear with her proud ears, how all her plots Are brought to naught, bid her to wait upon us At the feast, thou purposeth to serve us 58 THE STAR IN THE EAST Three days hence, thy Lord and Haman. Esther: If 't be thy pleasure, Lord, it shall be done, But much I dread to have her brought so near Thy royal person. Her eyes are basilisks; Venom is in her mouth, I fear, O king, Such hatred as she bears may work thee ill. I do beseech thee let her not approach ! She radiateth evil as the pestilence Which stalks abroad unseen. King. (Laughing) Fear not, my queen, I would but tease a snake Whose fangs are drawn. There's naught to fear. She is a guarded slave. Think of her crime! The punishment is just And shall be meted out as I have said. I do decree that Vashti drink the dregs Of bitterness and shame. Esther. (Sadly boimng her head) Vashti shall serve us at the feast O king. (At this moment the curtain is drawn aside and Ha- man enters, foUozved by Mordecai in royal robes. The King extends his sceptre and they advance to the foot of the dais. Haman pros- trates himself, and Mordecai is about to bow low when the King stops him.) King: Nay, Mordecai, thou com'st here as my peer. He who gives kings their lives need bow to no man. I here demand thy pardon, that I left Thy Godlike gift remain unrecompensed These many months. Mordecai : O, great king, live forever ; Not to me THE STAR IN THE EAST 59 Owest thou thanks or recompense. The one God gave thee life; he holds it still Within the hollow of his holy hands. He did preserve it when those naughty men Would vilely cut it off. I was His humble instrument of grace. He led my feet where I might hear their plans ; He brought the words to my swift, Hstening ears ; He told my heart how I might bring to thee Their fell design. To Him The glory be throughout all generations! I praise the God of Abraham, the God Of Isaac, and of Israel ! His name is Jah ! (He falls on his face prostrate as he says the last words.) King: Thy God must be indeed a mighty God If He can do these things. Thinkst thou he's greater than Ahuramazda? MoRDECAi. (Rising) None, Is like unto our God ! There is no God But Him! (There is a movement of unrest throughout the court and the people turn their eyes to the sa- cred flame zvliich burns as before. Esther leans forivard zvith delight and eagerness. The King seems not to join in the general feeling of consternation at the temerity of the Jew.) King: I would hear more of Him. When this man (Turn- ing to Haman.J 6o THE STAR IX THE EAST Halh finished his high yiroj^^ress throup^h the streets Bring him to lodge within the palace here. I'll further talk with him about this God Who can save kings and who is like none other. It is a matter of much interest. I thank thee, Haman, my most loyal friend, Who hath so well advised me of the way To pay my debts. Take Mordecai. and lead him through the streets Upon my noble horse as thou hast said ; Worthy indeed is he of all this honour ! ('Mordecai and Haman retire from the King's presence after bowing again to him, and the King turns to Esther. J That God which Zoroaster taught us of Hath failed me oft of late. Perchance this God Of Israel of whom this man doth prate, Hath yet more power. I'll learn of Him. (A pause during which the King sits musing. Then he looks towards the open doorway, then back at the QuEEN.j A silver moon rolls in a sapphire sky. The bulbul's soul pours out in liquid song Unto the eager night. Within the shade Of palm trees, blooms the rose ; tall lilies spill Their waxen chalices, to perfume The night air. Come, my queen, into the gardens On this night of love. So will our senses swoon in ecstasy Beneath such beauty. It will woo our souls THE STAR IN THE EAST 6i From sorry thoughts which fill the garish day. Come, Esther, love ! (They descend from the throne and start towards the great doorway in the back as the curtain slowly falls.) ACT IV Three days have elapsed. The banquet hall in the apartments of the Queen. It is hung with purple and gold draped hack with cords of the same colors. In the center hack is a zvide doorzvay, the curtain front which is draped high. Through this doorway the King, Queen, Haman and Mordecai en- ter later. Back of the doorway is a hall and during the banquet a company of the King's bodyguard of archers walk hack and forth. At the left closed by a curtain is the door through which the Maids and Slaves enter who serve the feast. In the center of stage is a low, long table. Back of this and almost level with it are three couches, the one at the right of the center cov- ered with a cloth of royal purple on which is worked the crown and sceptre. The two oth- ers are covered with gold cloth. At the left against the zvall and in front of the left doorway is a higher table on which are dishes of various kinds, flagons, goblets, etc. The long table is elaborately decorated with dishes of fruit, apples, grapes and pomegran- 62 THE STAR IN THE EAST 63 ates. Flowers are also hi vases at each end, hut nothing is so high as to at all interfere zvith the view of the audience. The couches are so high above the table that the zvhole body of the per- sons on the divans may he seen. At rise of curtain, Nicaso is giving the final touches to the flowers and fruit on the table. Two Slaves, one of ivhom is Vashti, are busy pouring the zvine from large jars into the flagons, and arranging the dishes on the side table which are to be served first. Nicaso : Is it not beautiful? I hope the queen Will be well pleased. Those pomegranates are the finest I have seen since Adar last was here, Twelve months ago. The slave was nearly drowned Who plucked those lotus flowers, but even so, Their beauty's worth the loss of one mean slave. Is the wine ready? Forget not, the king- Must taste that vintage from Armenia Which the queen sent for at such great expense ! Vashti : A moment and all things will have been done Even as thou hast bidden. Now, I fill The special flagon for the king himself. Nicaso : Take care it be not over warm nor cold ; If so, the flavour's richness would be lost. (Takes another look about to assure herself that all is ready.) I go to tell the queen, the banquet's served. (Exits by door center hack.) 64 THE STAR IN THE EAST Vashti. (Looking after her with hatred) They think to break my spirit — the spirit Of haughty Vashti, By making me to serve where once I ruled ! They think me powerless, a plaything For their hatred, the tame sport of their spleen ; An idle leaf to be blown here and yon, Wliere once I was the very wind itself Whose softest breath did shake this court To its foundation stones! But this, shall be the end ! Slave : Have a care, Vashti! If your game should fail Your life may not be spared a second time. Vashti : Be silent, worm! This time there'll be no slip. For I employ no bungling go-betweens, But do my work myself. A pleasant task And one I'd rather do, than reign in Persia. My hate has grown so that it must be fed Before all else. Go ! I will finish this. (Indicating the service table and the last placing of the flagons. The Slave exits. Vashti looks fearfully around, seeing no one she draws from her bosom a small glass phial. As she does so Nicaso appears at the center door. She is about to enter, then seeing Vashti she conceals her- self partly behind the curtain and watches her. Vashti empties the contents of the phial in the flagon containing the King's special wine. She places this on the table near the King's divan. Then she drops the empty phial behind a huge water vase tvhich is near the service table. With a smile of triumph, Vashti exists. A moment later Nicaso rushes to the water bottle and THE STAR IN THE EAST 65 reaching down brings up the phial just as the royal party enters the hall. First come the black Slaves, then the Queen and the King and Haman. These are followed by a company of archers which remain without, while, Har- BONAH, one of the chamberlains stands near the door so as to be within the King's call. Nicaso runs up to the royal party and makes an obeis- ance before them.) NicAso : queen ! My Lord ! A fearful thing ! I saw Vashti, the slave, pour something from this phial Into the wine meant chiefly for the king. Back of a water jar she hid the thing, Which I secured. 'Tis empty, but I fear From its rank odor that it held some drug Of deadly sort. She was alone, and is Not yet aware that any saw her act. 1 beg thee all, by the great love I bear To taste no wine which Vashti hath prepared. Queen. (In great concern) My king, my Lord, what fearful thing is this! Wait but a moment. I will have this wine Drawn ofif, the ^agons cleansed, fresh wine prepared, And Vashti placed where she can do no harm. King: Not yet, my Esther, fear not. I shall know How best to act. (To Nicaso J Weep not, hand- maiden. Let the red return into thy cheeks ; thy Warning is not lost, but let all things Proceed as though this phial were not found. Haman : O king, I add my prayers to those thou'st heard. And beg thee take great care. 66 THE STAR IN THE EAST King. (Laughing) Thou'llt see some sport, I promise, if so be, it is as we have heard. Come ! to the feast ! (They scat themselves, the King on the royal divan, Haman on the other side of Esther zuho takes the center couch. Nicaso claps her hands and the slaves enter bearing dishes. Vashti comes forzvard and with a look of triumph and hatred pours from the flagon she has prepared for the King, the zvine into his goblet. The other Slaves place meats, etc., on the table. The King holds up the goblet, Vashti standing be- hind his chair.) This wine, poured but for me. Is it some rare and costly vintage? Queen. ( Palteringly) 'Tis made of white grapes in Armenia, Blended with purple in a secret way That none but dwellers in that country Know. I — I — I've heard it praised. King. (Lifts his glass again as though prepar- ing to drink) Here in this cup of gold are liquid rubies Pressed from finest grapes ; grown but for me the king To slake his thirst ; a royal wine, and fit For royal lips. (He lowers the cup, and Vashti's impatience grows.) Men say I am a stern, relentless king, Slow to forgive, and quick to spring to wrath ; THE STAR IN THE EAST ^-j I forget not a wrong, yet I neglect No recompense to them who serve me well. Behind my chair stands one who once I chose To honour with my love. She is highborn. To witness to you all, that I rememlaer Her birth was far above her station now, I will do her a signal favour. Before I touch this goblet with my lips She shall its contents drain. (With, a gesture of much condescension he offers the cup to Vashti 7vho has come around before him to the end of the table. She does not move to take it.) Wouldst thou refuse ? (Sternly.) Dost think the honour is too great? Or dost Thou see perchance not wine, but blood which brims About the rim ? Vashti. (Taking the cup as though hypnotized) I like not wine, O king! King: Drink! I command thee! Drink the wine poured out By thee, for me, the King of All the World ! Vashti. (Lifting her goblet and looking at the King with hatred) I would that thou hadst drained it in my stead! 'Twas cunningly prepared. Its work is swift. (She drinks and falls back into the arms of a Slave who at a gesture from the King carries her out. Esther hides her face in horror during this scene.) Haman : So perish all thy enemies, O king! 68 THE STAR IN THE EAST Within thy palace or without its walls! King: Amen! Now bring fresh wine, and we'll forget This ominous beginning to our feast. (The Slaves bring in fresh flagons, carrying out the first ones, and the three eat and drink, Esther sparingly.) My queen, this banquet doth exceed my hopes ; It sees the end of our most bitter foe ; We sit here with this friend who loves us both, The rarest fruits are here, the choicest meats. The wines exceed in body and perfume The finest in our kingdom. While we sit And sip at their delights, what hast thou to Beguile us? Esther: Wilt thou see dancing first? Or rather hear the maidens with the lutes? Both wait thy pleasure, Lord. King: Nay, rather we would hear the honeyed words Which falling from thy lips do tempt the bees, To seek their hoard there, thinking them a rose. So tell us a tale, my queen. Thou surely hast Some happening to relate, some boon to ask Which we but wait to hear, to say " 'Tis granted I" Esther: I fear, O king, I have no tale of mirth ; No story sweet of jinns or giants great. But if, Ahasuerus, thou wilt hear A sorry tale of exiles and their wrongs ; A tale of plotting 'gainst a favoured queen ; A tale of hatred and of high ambition. Such can I tell to stir thy kingly heart. THE STAR IN THE EAST 69 King: Say on, my Esther ! Star of Persia, speak ! Esther : My Lord, there dwelt, in a great eastern nation, Ruled over by the mightiest of kings And wisest, since all chronicles began, A people proud, exiled from their own land And holy temple. Sad was this remnant of a race, yet still They kept their customs, worshipped the true God, Keeping their course in poverty and fear. To them their prophets, from the earliest times. Had promised a Messiah should be born ; He should be called Immanuel, being God, And should redeem His people and the world From sin and death. Thus lived they on in hope. It chanced a mighty prince, a favorite of the king, One that he loved before all other men, Hated these exiles, but he hated most One godly man amongst them ; even the man Who'd given the king his life. ("Haman starts and becomes uneasy as she proceeds.) This haughty prince, Sure of his favour with the king his lord. Did make a plot how to destroy this man And all his race. At last he won an edict from his lord. That every man and woman, youth and babe. Should die the death upon a certain day, Even the thirteenth day of the twelfth month ; And by this writ, the queen would die the first. (The King and Haman both start, and the King casts a glance of anger at Haman, who looks bewildered and aghast.) yo THE STAR IN THE EAST For the queen was a Jew ! Proud daughter Of the man he hated most, of Mordecai! Haman. (Interrupting) queen, forgive ! Thy servant did not know ! King. (Looking darkly at Haman j An enemy and adversary he, Who'd plot against the queen. What did the Wing. My Msthcr, tell me that ? Esther: My lord, here ends the tale. Tis thou alone Must finish up the chronicle. King: No ! By my love, my Star shall end the tale Even as she wills. Go on. We'll hear the end. Esther. At thy high peasure. (She pauses a moment, then proceeds more slou'ly.) Then this gracious king, this ruler of the world Sent word, That Mordecai, the Jew, should come to him. And in his presence he revoked This murderous edict, this most cruel writ Which he had signed. Thus did he save the life Of his beloved, of his Star, his queen. King: 1 like thy ending, yet 'tis not the end. (Turns to Harbonah zs.'ho stands in the doorway and who comes forzvard as he is called.) Harbonah, call me Mordecai, the Jew. (As the King speaks Haman rises partly as though he ivould do the bidding, but the King stops him with a gesture.) THE STAR IN THE EAST 71 Not thee, thou shaJt be present till the end. Thou wouldst not leave before the story's done ! Haman : Mercy, O king ! thy servant did not know ! King : So shall he learn. Ah, here comes Mordecai! (Enter Mordecai preceded by Harbonah. Morde- cai bows before the KingJ Welcome, my friend, the saviour of my life! But now I learn that I owe thee still more ; Because thou art the father of my queen. Mordecai : Live thou forever, king. I did indeed Upraise her as my daughter. Since her youth I've loved her as the fruit of mine own loins. Her father was the brother of my sire, And when he died, even bowed down with grief At our sad exile, I took her gladly To my heart and hearth. She is of royal blood. Equal thine own. The blood of Jewish kings Of ancient days. King: Again our thanks are thine. Now for a matter Of serious import ; this edict which Lord Haman hath devised, dost truly think It would have harmed our queen? Mordecai : Twill cost her life if so it be enforced. It reads, O king, "that no Jew shall be spared, And whoso would show pity to one such, Whate'er their station be, his life shall pay The forfeit!" My king, thou knowest how strictly Men enforce the law of Medes and Persians. King: -ji THE STAR IN THE EAST Yes, yes, I know. It was a plot a fiend Would gloat upon ; to make me give the word That would condemn her who is dearer to me Than my life! And thou? What hast thou done To foil such villainy? MORDECAI : Three days ago I came to warn the queen, And since that time our race has fasted, Putting up their prayer, unto our Lord, The God of Israel ; a mighty prayer We made, that He would put pity and mercy Into the king's heart, so should the queen's life And our own be spared. King: Thy God must be a mighty God indeed For so it comes to pass. I do revoke This edict. Harbonah, tell the scribe To make another writing, in the which I shall decree instead, that every Jew With all their priests and Levites in my realm, Which shall be mindful of their own free will To journey to Jerusalem, there to live. May do so. Further, I would send a gift of silver And of gold, or rams and beeves, as offering To the temple of this great God, this God Of thine, who is more powerful than fire. Only thou, Mordecai, thou must not go. Thou shalt remain here with thy king and queen. Lodge in our palace, counsel with us oft, And teach us of this God of Israel. Mordecai. (Bowing before the dais) Gracious and very mighty art thou. Lord; As is our God to every other god. So art thou to all other kings of earth! In memory and in token of thy grace, THE STAR IN THE EAST 73 My people, henceforth, shall, in every year, Upon the fourteenth day of Adar, The day next after that when they were doomed, Make a great feast, called Purim, or the Feast Of Lots ; because their fate decided was By lot. Our God shall give thee happiness, And peace, and children many as the fruitful vine — And furthermore, this chronicle of thine Shall be accounted worthy to be read By every people and in every tongue So long as books shall last. King. (Much pleased) Such words of promise and of gratitude Are pleasing to mine ears. (Turning to Haman.J But still remains this traitor, this vile man Who would have killed my queen and my true friend ! What fate is fit for him? Haman. (Falling prostrate before the KingJ Mercy, O king! King: No! Justice! (Twrwj fo Harbonah.J How planned Lord Haman here to end the life Of Mordecai, the Jew? Harbonah : May't please the king to hear, he hath ordained A gallows to be built before his house, To stand the height of fifty cubits. Here, When the sun shed his first rays on that day On which the Jews were all condemned to die, Mordecai was to hang till he was dead. King: Then justly I decree, that ere the sun Breaks through the mists which shroud to-morrow's morn, Thou shalt hang Haman high upon the frame 74 THE STAR IN THE EAST Me built for Mordecai. Away with him! fHAMAN is led a7i'ay by Harbonah and some of the guard. Mordecai stands zvith his hands up- lifted as though in exultation.) Mordecai : "They have digged a pit before me And fallen into the midst of it themselves. Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers ; The snare is broken and we are escaped." (The look of a seer comes over Mordecai's face.) I see Immanuel coming as a king ! I see His kingdom spread through all the earth ! The Jews, this remnant unto whom He'll come Are saved ! The world is saved ! Clear shines the star To light us on our way ! And yet — And yet — above it all — I see a cross — A cross! I do not comprehend ^Esther and the King draw near to Mordecai and watch him with awe.) Esther. (In azve-struck tones) A cross, my father ? Look not so aghast ! Fear not. Trust in the Lord, The God of Israel Who hath been our help throughout all generations ! (As the curtain slowly falls, Mordecai still stands pondering over the words which he repeats. "A cross! A cross!" ) LIBRARY UNIVFRSTTY OF CALIFORNIA Costumes Pictures of all costumes for the characters in this play may be found in "The Illuminated Holy Bible With Maps and Help" published by Ameri- can Bible House, No. 12 West 32nd Street, New York City, or by obtaining the illustrations b^' Tissot for the book of Esther from The Tissot Picture Society in care of American Bible House, 12 West 32nd Street, New York City. WHY THE CHIMES RANG, a play in one act by Elizabeth McFadden. Adapted from the story of the same name by R. M. Alden. Especially recommended as a Christmas play because: It teaches the story of the Christ child, rather than the Byzantine legend of Santa Claus. It may be adapted to the ritual of any Christian denomination by slight changes of costume and setting. It offers a rare opportunity for exquisite church music. It may be given in the barest room, against a background of Christmas greens, or it may be presented with the most lavish equipment of a profes- sional theatre, yet both productions will thrill the imagination and touch the heart. It teaches the beauty of a charity that gives heart and service as well as gold. Price, 3S cents. THE CHRISTMAS STORY, dramatized by Virginia A. Gris- wold. This is the Bible story of the birth of the Christ, using the Bible language as far as possible. It lends itself to four scenes: The hill country of Judea, the throne-room of Herod, the market- place in Bethlehem and the stable with the manger. It can be produced in the simplest manner on a platform, or with all the Oriental setting and accessories 'which the imagination and means can provide. Plays about an hour, and any number of people, adults and children, can be used. Makes an admirable Christmas enter- tainment and is well adapted for the use of «hurches and schools. Price, 35 cents. THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS. A Christmas play in three short acts by William Patterson Tavlor. The NIGHT BE- FORE CHRISTMAS is a little play in three acts which may be produced well v/ithin an hour. The first act presents the wondrous and hurried night before Christmas preparation activities in Santa's workshop at the North Pole. The second act is a night before Christmas home bedchamber incident, involving the desperate situa- tion resulting from a childish difference between two brothers, which difference — "made up" true — introduces, also, the woeful possibilities of Santa's calamitous displeasure. (In this and the last act the children's classic, "The Night Before Christmas," is dramatized.) In the third act "All's well that ends well." A quartette supplies the music. This little play has grown during years of local use by the author and others. Its unbroken success in stirring and impressing the children (and the "grown-ups," too — whom, also, the author aimed to reach) was urged as a reason for its publication. Strongly recommended as an entertainment for the bolidav season. Price, 30 cents. A DREAM ON CHRISTMAS EVE. A very pleasing enter- tainment for little folks, by Ina Home. Time about thirty minutes, but it can be lengthened to any duration by the further introduction of each child's specialty. The costumes are according to the char- acter represented and are easiljr made. The story is the dream of a little girl on Christmas eve, in which she views the good things vrhich she is to receive on the morrow. Santa Claus enters and while filling the stocking tells a story of the little people to whom lie gives his presents, "rhen the Christmas pudding enters and tells how she was made. Then the pumpkin pie, the holly, mistletoe, ice cream, crackers, candy, etc., enter and tell their stones. The play is easy to give and can be held in the class room, Sunday-school or a home. Price, JO cents. THE TOY SHOP, a new and original entertainment for children by F. S. Isham and Edward WeitreT, with some new and up-to-date music. No special number required. Particularly adapted to school or Sunday-school entertainments. One of the best entertainments for children published. Price 30 cents. SAMUEL FRENCH, Publisher, 28-30 West 38th Street SOUTHUMBERLAND'S YULE-TIDE, » {.scitutinc and practical comtnunitjr Chriitmac muque, by C. Arthur Coan. Thia delightful fcftival is written in the ipirit of the traditional Yule celebrations of olden days, and is so conceived as to permit the whole school or community, old, young, rich or poor, to take an active part. The costumes are fully described and the instruction* are in detail. Suitable for community or school use. Price, 50 cents. MOTHER GOOSE'S CHRISTMAS VISIT. An entirely new and original entertainment for children by Edith Thompson Langley. This very pleasing entertainment embraces most of the Mother Goose characters, and any number of children, boys and girls, young and old, can take part. Songs and specialties can be introduced and the action prolonged to any length of time desired. It introduces Santa Claus and the Christmas tree and all the favorite characters of the little ones. It is an admirable entertainment for the Christmas holidays, and is printed complete with music, sug- gestions for staging, costuming, etc. Flays about an hour. This entertainment has always been a great success wherever produced. Price, 30 cents. THE GIFT. A symbolic play in one act by Marie A. Foley. The action passes in a simple room of a little house near Judea during the lifetime of Our Lord. The characters are two men, one woman and three children. The costumes — tunic draperies — make it easily possible to be played by an all female cast. Joel, a little lame boy, firmly believes the Galilean can cure him of his lameness if he will go and ask Him. In preparation the boy makes a wreath of white roses as a gift for the Galilean. Huldah, with whom Joel lives, a woman with neither heart nor imagination, ridicules the boy's faith, throws the wreath into the fire and frustrates the boy's going by leaving him in sole charge of her father, an aged and infirm man. A stranger, blind, also seeking the Galilean, to regain his sight, stops at the door for food and rest. The boy takes him in. Acci- dentally the stranger comes in contact with the charred wreath which Joel has dragged from the fire. The stranger hears about the wreath's purpose and offers to carry it to the Galilean. Joel explans its sorry plight. "The Galilean will understand," answers the stranger. "But it is black and ugly," exclaims the boy. "But not the heart that fashioned it," he is answered. The stranger then learns of the boy's desire to be cured and offers himself to remain there with the aged man while the boy goes to get his heart's desire. The boy accepts the stranger's great sacrifice (much to the disappoint- ment of the old invalid) and leaves the house. However, in a few minutes the boy is back again crying out that he cannot go. "It is much worse being blind than being lame." The stranger is put upon the road by the boy to seek the Galilean. The boy watching him through the window sees the stranger meet with a Traveller, sees the giving of his burnt wreath to the Traveller, its trans- formation into beautiful crimson roses as it touches the Traveller's hands, then the return of the stranger no longer blind to the house. In his joy the boy leaps across the room to the door to find that his crutches have dropped to the floor and he has leaped across the room unaided — cured. The play ends with much joy for all three in the room while outside is heard the voice of the unbeliever, "Strange we missed Him; He must have passed this way." Tbc stranger answers, "Yes, He passed thia ynj" Price, 35 cent*. SAMUEL FRENCH, Publisher, 28-30 West 38th Street 3 1205 02385 4944 UC SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY AA 001 037 264 7