To the Jewess the Egyptian never appeared so very,very beautiful as at that moment. Her gauzy garments fluttered about her like a little cloud of mist; her forehead, neck, and arms glittered with the massive jewelry so affected by her people. Her countenance was suffused with pleasure. She moved with buoyant steps, and self-conscious, though without affectation.Esther at the sight shrank within herself, and nestled closer to her father.
"Peace to you, Simonides, and to the pretty Esther peace," said Iras, inclining her head to the latter."You remind me, good master-if I may say it without offence-you remind me of the priests in Persia who climb their temples at the decline of day to send prayers after the departing sun. Is there anything in the worship you do not know, let me call my father. He is Magian-bred."