1   On the third day Esther brought her prayers to an end. She took off the clothes she had worn while she worshipped and put on all her splendour. 2   When she was in her royal robes and had invoked the all-seeing God, her preserver, she took two maids with her; 3    4   on one she leaned for support, as befitted a fine lady, while the other followed, bearing her train. 5   She was blushing and in the height of her beauty; her face was as cheerful as it was lovely, but her heart was in the grip of fear. 6   She passed through all the doors and reached the royal presence. The king was seated on his throne, in the full array of his majesty. He was all gold and precious stones, an awe-inspiring figure. 7   He looked up, his face glowing with regal dignity, and glanced at her in towering anger. The queen fell, changing colour in a faint, and swooning on the shoulder of the maid who went before her.

8   Then God changed the spirit of the king to gentleness, and in deep concern he leapt from his throne and took her in his arms until she came to herself. 9   He soothed her with reassuring words: ‘Esther, what is it? 10   Have no fear of me, your loving husband; you shall not die, for our order is only for our subjects. 11   Come to me.’ And the king lifted his golden sceptre and laid it upon her neck; 12   then he kissed her and said, ‘You may speak to me.’ 13   She answered, ‘I saw you, my lord, looking like an angel of God, and I was awestruck at your glorious appearance; 14   your countenance is so full of grace, my lord, that I look on you in wonder.’ 15   But while she was speaking she fell down in a faint; 16   the king was distressed, and all his attendants comforted her.

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