Broken in body, I came home and found my Rachel dead of fear and grief for me.

The Lord our God reigned, and I lived.

From the emperor himself I bought immunity and license to trade throughout the world.

To-day--praised be He who maketh the clouds his chariot and walketh upon the winds!--to-day, Esther, that which was in my hands for stewardship is multiplied into talents sufficient to enrich a Caesar." He lifted his head proudly; their eyes met; each read the other's thought.

"What shall I with the treasure, Esther ?" he asked, without lowering his gaze.
"My father," she answered, in a low voice, "did not the rightful owner call for it but now ?" Still his look did not fail.
"And thou, my child; shall I leave thee a beggar ?" "Nay, father, am not I, because I am thy child, his bond-servant?
And of whom was it written, 'Strength and honor are her clothing, and she shall rejoice in time to come ?'" A gleam of ineffable love lighted his face as he said, "The Lord hath been good to me in many ways; but thou, Esther, art the sovereign excellence of his favor." He drew her to his breast and kissed her many times.
"Hear now," he said, with clearer voice--"hear now why I laughed this morning.