JOSEPH AND HIS BRETHREN
Simeon. Have we battled for pastures and wells, to give them to strangers?
Asher. Wait until my tale will be told. In this runner's wake, then, journeyed a great host; and nightly he was sent ahead to seek a resting-place for the next morn. When this was found, he ran back as he came, and led the voyagers thither.
Simeon. And they defile the water and trample the young grass.
Levi. They kill our herds and seize our young maidens for a prey.
Asher. I tell you, these come not in war or for rapine. They themselves are bearing a treasure of a great price down to Egypt
Simeon [Eagerly] What treasure?
Asher. Nought for thy claws to clutch. They come from Nineveh
Levi. From Nineveh?
Asher. And they journey to Egypt. They bring a wife for one of the Pharaoh's officers.
Judah. Is she fair?
Asher. Thinkest thou the runner had seen her? Now, hearken. They seek food and raiment, for the way is long. Also, wherever they pass, they purchase gifts for their Lord and for the Pharaoh—whatsoever is richest in the land
Simeon. When will they pass?
Asher. When the runner left them, they were hard by Tirzah.
Simeon [Moving off] I will go forth
Judah. And I with thee, Simeon.
Simeon [Angrily] I have no need of thee.
Levi. Think you this is for one or for two? I have the finest woven stuffs, and cups of beaten gold
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