The couriers went forth in haste by the king's mitzvah, and the decree was given out in the citadel of Susa. The king and Haman sat down to drink; but the city of Shushan was perplexed.
If I have found favor in the sight of the king, and if it please the king to grant my petition and to perform my request, let the king and Haman come to the banquet that I will prepare for them, and I will do tomorrow as the king has said.*
The king said again to Ester on the second day at the banquet of wine, *What is your petition, queen Ester? It shall be granted you. What is your request? Even to the half of the kingdom it shall be performed.*