Young Esther trembled . . . and drew near
Within the fatal ring;
O who would look, and never fear
At the great Eastern king?
The maiden’s virtues clearly shone,
Before both king and man,
Fear of the sceptre now was gone—
God working out His plan.
O Lord! we thank Thee for Thy grace
As in Thy courts we bow;
Mercy stands written in Thy face,
No Persian tyrant Thou!
And should our heart condemn us, Lord,
We still can venture near;
For "light and joy" Thy words afford,
Whose love casts out all fear.
Thy presence-chamber open stands,
Inviting to be bold;
And glory lights those gracious hands
That wield the rod of gold.
E. K. B.