Esther 15
1So, on the third day, she put away her ornate apparel, and surrounded herself with glory2And when she was shining in a royal manner, and had called upon God, the Guide and Savior of all, she took two maids with her3And she was leaning upon one of them, as if, out of delicateness and great tenderness, she were not able to bear carrying her own body4And the other maid followed her lady, carrying her garment flowing on the ground5Yet she had a rosy color pouring over her face, for, with gracious and bright eyes, she restrained a sorrowful soul and very great fear6And so, entering hesitantly through a series of doors, she stood opposite the king, where he sat upon his royal throne, clothed in royal robes, and shining with gold and precious stones. And he was terrible to behold7And when he had lifted up his face, and with burning eyes had shown the fury of his heart, the queen collapsed, and her color turned pale, and she rested her exhausted head upon her handmaid8And God changed the king’s spirit into gentleness; quickly and apprehensively, he leapt from his throne, and lifting her up in his arms until she came to herself, he coaxed her with these words9"What is the matter, Esther? I am your brother, do not be afraid10You will not die. For this law has not been established for you, but for all others11So approach and touch the scepter.12And since she remained silent, he took the golden scepter and placed it on her neck, and he kissed her and said, "Why do you not speak to me?13She answered, "I saw you, my lord, as an angel of God, and my heart was disturbed for fear of your glory14For you, my lord, are great and wonderful, and your face is full of grace.15And while she was speaking, she collapsed again, because she was out of breath16But the king was troubled, and all his servants consoled her
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