JOSEPH AND HIS BRETHREN
scattered; their treasure taken; their strongholds razed. I hasten homeward on the wings of love. If the runner reach thee at sundown, give him gold and bid Zuleika rejoice, for I shall be with her at dawn." [To the Runner] Here is gold from Potiphar—and here from me: for this is the best news that ever man gat. Haste to the lady Zuleika! [Exit the Runner; to Sebni] To thy watch! [To the Slaves] Make ready!
Joseph. [In deep thought] A plot against the Pharaoh's life—! Oh, it is well my lord is coming!
Asenath's Voice [Without, singing]—
In the scented garden I sought my love
When I was alone with the night:
The moon's face mocked me,
The stars twinkled with laughter;
But I heeded them not.
Moon, I cried, thou seekest after the sun,
Stars, ye seek after the moon,
And I seek after my love.
Joseph. Asenath!
Asenath. Thou heard'st my song!
Joseph. The moon never reacheth the sun—
Asenath. That is why her face is sometimes so dark.
Joseph. The stars never reach the moon—
Asenath. And sometimes they drop out of heaven for grief.
Joseph. But Asenath hath found her love.
Asenath. They say thy lord cometh tomorrow, and thou wilt be free, and I shall lose thee again.
63
