There go two men, both bearing heavy arms; The lance would serve my purpose very well. (_Calling off stage._) Come here! This way! What, are ye deaf? Come quick! [_The servant, returning with the lance and helmet, accompanied by a second servant bearing the King's shield and cuirass, enters._] RACHEL. Give me your lance, good man, and stick the point Here in the ground, and then the roof will be Held up in that direction. Thus it throws A broader shadow. Quickly, now! That's right! You other fellow, like a snail, you bear Your house upon your back, unless, perhaps, A house for some one else. Show me the shield! A mirror 'tis, in sooth! 'Tis crude, of course, As all is, here, but in a pinch 'twill do. (_They hold the shield before her._) One brings one's hair in order, pushes back Whatever may have ventured all too far, And praises God who made one passing fair. This mirror's curve distorts me! Heaven help! What puffy cheeks are these? No, no, my friend, What roundness nature gives us, satisfies.-- And now the helmet--useless in a fight, For it conceals what oft'nest wins--the eyes; But quite adapted to the strife of love. Put me the helm upon my head.--You hurt!-- And if one's love rebels and shows his pride, Down with the visor! (_Letting it down._) He in darkness stands! But should he dare, mayhap, to go from us, And send for arms, to leave us here alone, Then up the visor goes. (_She does it._) Let there be light! The sun, victorious, drives away the fog. KING (_going to her_). Thou silly, playing, wisely-foolish child! RACHEL. Back, back! Give me the shield, give me the lance! I am attacked, but can defend myself. KING. Lay down thy arms! No ill approacheth thee! (_Taking both of her hands._) _Enter ESTHER from the left rear._ RACHEL. Ah thou, my little sister! Welcome, here! Away with all this mummery, but quick! Don't take my head off, too! How clumsy, ye! (_Running to her._) Once more be welcome, O thou sister mine! How I have long'd to have thee here with me! And hast thou brought my bracelets and my jewels, My ointments and my perfumes, with thee now, As from Toledo's shops I ordered them?