JOSEPH AND HIS BRETHREN
Joseph. Ayof the plot against the Pharaoh.
Zuleika. [Contemptuously] Oh, that!—What is their Pharaoh to us?
Joseph. He is a man: therefore his life must be saved.
Zuleika. Is a man's life so much worth?
Joseph. And Wakara said that my lord Potiphar was in danger.
Zuleika. Wakara was dreaming.
Joseph. Is that not true? Then I take my leave.
Zuleika. Wait. There was another matter. But I cannot remember.
Joseph. My lord's return?
Zuleika. [Indifferently] Ay, perchance.
Joseph. All is ready.
Zuleika. Ay—thou hast toiled by day and night. Take this ring for reward.
Joseph. [Refusing it] I need no reward.
Zuleika. So proud and scornful—yet a slave?
Joseph. A slave only until tomorrow; and my lord hath made the slavery light.
Zuleika. Oh, but I have pitied thee! For I am in the same case.
Joseph. Thou! A great lord's wife!
Zuleika. I am alone in a strange land; as thou art.
Joseph. My lord will be here at dawn.
Zuleika. I shall still be alone.
Joseph. What love can bring, he bring it by himself.
Zuleika. Ay—he! [With an intention] But I?
Joseph. Why did'st thou come, if thou lovest him not?
Zuleika. Did I come of mine own will? Was I not sold hither by my kin—as thou wert? I tell thee, thou and I should cling together!
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