THE first Cyrus, known in history by the name of "Cyrus the Great," was one of the outstanding characters of all time. By divine foreknowledge, Isaiah the prophet named Cyrus, more than a hundred years before his birth, and predicted that he would issue the first decree permitting the captive Jews in Babylon to return and rebuild their beloved Jerusalem.

Biblical prophecy has little to say of the nations of earth except as those nations are to fulfil a part in the program which the supreme Ruler of the universe is working out on this planet. Cyrus, although unacquainted with the God of heaven, was an instrument used to this end. Forces always opposed to such a program laid plot after plot in an endeavor to hinder or thwart the divine plan.

The unfolding and outworking of God's purposes concerning His once chosen people through ages past, in their relation to prophecies about Cyrus. and how the enemy of right attempted unsuccessfully to hinder their fulfilment, is the subject matter of this story.

If the writings of ancient historians can be relied upon, the prominent characters and main details of this narrative are facts. The author's imagination alone is responsible for a few minor characters and some of the connecting links. In supplying what the records of history have omitted, we have endeavored to hold true to oriental custom as revealed in ancient manuscripts, supplemented by personal observation during twenty years' residence and travel in oriental lands. The author does not claim that every part of the story is in chronological sequence, and if in the telling he has opened the windows of musty libraries to let in some of the romantic charm of ancient Babylon and the surrounding countries, he has only done what that land of mystic enchantment inspires in all who visit the far east.

Cyrus was first a youth, and romance was a part of his life as it is of all youth. The author hopes that the details of Cyrus' exciting career and his great romance may act as a spur to young readers as they grapple with the heavier historical facts of the story.

For the benefit of readers who have full confidence in Scriptural prophecies, references are given where the Bible is quoted as authority. We trust this will not detract from the interest of the story for any who may not give full weight to Biblical predictions.

Is it not true that an increasing number of people believe that the world's future destiny, for good or ill, is very closely associated with the Jewish race, particularly with One certain Jew?

It is to be hoped that during these stressful days, this story of the life and times of Cyrus may, for many, inspire faith and confidence in God, who alone knows the future, who has predicted what shall be very accurately in His Book, who rules in heaven and upon earth; and who, all opposing influences to the contrary, will ultimately work out with man the purpose of His own divine will.

S.A.N.

THE city of Babylon, "the beauty of the Chaldees' excellency," "the lady of kingdoms," lay quiet under the silvery splendor of an oriental moon.

Her massive walls; her huge brass gates: her twenty-five main cross streets and bridges; her world renowned gardens, built by King Nebuchadnezzar for his beautiful Median wife; her pagan temples, which towered far into the clouds; all cast their reflection in the still-flowing water of the Euphrates River, which passed under her walls and ran through her midst.

Of this ancient city, Nebuchadnezzar, on the eve of his mental breakdown, had said: "Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom, by the might of my power, and for the honor of my majesty?"

Tonight, except in the Jewish quarter, almost every voice is silent. Peace fills the hearts of the conquering Chaldeans, secure within their walls, but the harps of the captive Jews no longer give forth sweet music. How can they be expected to sing the songs of Zion in a strange land!

In the home of Rabbi Herinon, the revered priest has just read from the sacred scroll a message of hope to a number of secretly invited guests. He read a prediction the prophet Jeremiah had written prior to their captivity.

"Behold, I will send and take all the families of the north, saith the Lord, and Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, my servant, and will bring them against this land, and against the inhabitants thereof, and against all these nations round about, and will utterly destroy them. . . . This whole land shall be a desolation and an astonishment; and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years. And it shall come to pass, when seventy years are accomplished, that I will punish the king of Babylon, and that nation, saith the Lord, for their iniquity, and the land of the Chaldeans, and will make it perpetual desolations." Jeremiah 25:9-12.

Rolling up the scroll, Rabbi Hermon continued:

"Fellow Israelites, you are already aware of the reason for tonight's gathering. We understand, as others cannot, that this nation will not oppress us forever. Living in pride, she must one day be abased. God has spoken. Disobedience has made us captives in this distant land. Heaven has whipped us with the Babylonian lash. We deserve all the affliction that has come upon us. But let us never forget that with his words of doom, the prophet also uttered a message of hope.

"Dwelling with us in this city as an honored counselor of the king, is one of our own nation, our beloved Daniel. By my invitation, he has consented to meet with us this night, and instruct us in the ways of God. No man knows better than he the future of our race, of this nation, yea, of the whole world. He has promised to arrive at midnight. Certainly, it is not needful to warn you that a knowledge of this night's gathering must never come to the ears of the Babylonians."

The Hebrew people felt a just pride that one of their race stood so high in the kingdom. None save the king had more power than he. Led captive when a mere youth, he remained loyal to the God of his fathers. Upon graduation from the schools of Babylon, he was placed in a position of honor, rising rapidly to the highest place in the government. Chaldeans, as well as Jews, recognized him as a prophet of the God of heaven.

When King Nebuchadnezzar had failed in securing an interpretation of a divinely-sent dream from his so-called wise men, Daniel was able to give him his desired answer. Through this means the king should have known that his kingdom would not stand forever, but that it was to be followed by three other world-empires. Daniel added further, the fourth universal kingdom would divide never more to be reunited, and then, in its divided state, at a time appointed. God would set up on earth a kingdom that would last forever.

Later, Daniel himself was given a vision of these four world monarchies, which we know as Babylon, Media-Persia, Greece, and Rome. He was also given instruction in the part his people would play in coming world events.

Therefore, the company in Rabbi Hermon's house waited with keen anticipation the arrival of this man of power, one of the few members of the human family against whom inspiration has recorded nothing evil. To him the angel Gabriel, on a mission to earth from the throne of light, declared: "In heaven thou art greatly beloved." Daniel, by his consistent, godly life, did more than the whole ancient Hebrew race to proclaim to the world a knowledge of the true God. His messages will be pregnant with meaning to the close of earth's history. As Bacon wrote, "Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested." The book of Daniel belongs to this latter class. "With the ropes of the past we ring the bells of the future."

As Daniel entered the assembly room of Rabbi Hermon's house, the guests arose and remained standing until he was seated. A quiet dignity surrounded the king's minister, which commanded respect. Was this not because he was also an ambassador of the King of kings?

Addressing him, the fatherly priest remarked:

"You honor me and my guests by coming to this quiet gathering. As you well know, some of our Hebrew friends in this foreign country have become wealthy, as tradesmen. The holy land of our fathers has been forgotten. They are satisfied to abide in Babylon. ASleaders, we feel it to be our duty to keep alive in the breasts of our people the hope of a return. We invite you to expound the prophetical statements concerning the overthrow of the Babylonian kingdom, and the resulting permission which will be given us to return and rebuild our desolated city. We are all here to listen to your Wise counsel."

In clear, earnest tones the distinguished Daniel spoke:

"Fellow Jews, now citizens and strangers in a foreign land, forget this night that I am prime minister of the golden kingdom of earth. Providence has placed me in this position of great responsibility as a part of God's divine purpose. I stand now before von as His representative. I expect to live to see Babylon overthrown. Near the end of our seventy years' captivity, you will behold a man by the name of Cyrus arise and capture this city. He will issue a decree permitting us to return to our own Jerusalem. This man, although today unknown, must now soon appear, somewhere in the distant provinces, probably in those of the Medes and Persians. How do I know? Because God has spoken. I will readit from the scrolls of sacred prophecy."

Choosing the writings of Isaiah, he continued:

"Isaiah, as you well remember, wrote these predictions some hundred odd years ago in the days of our parents, while as yet we were an established nation in our own land. How he pleaded with our king and nobles to return to their allegiance to the God they had forsaken! Isaiah told them frankly what would result from their disobedience to the divine precepts, yet in harmony with what Rabbi Hennon read to you from Jeremiah's writings, he wrote:

"'God saith of Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundations shall be laid.

"'Thus saith the Lord to His anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue kingdoms before him. And I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two-leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut.

"'I will go before thee and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron.

"'And I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places; that thou mayest know that I, the Lord, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel.

"'For Jacob my servant's sake, and Israel mine elect, I have even called thee by thy name: I have surnamed thee, though thou hast not known inc.

"'I am the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God besides me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me.'" Isaiah 44:28; 45:l-5.*

Placing down the scroll, Daniel added emphasis to what his predecessor had written.

"It is for our sakes that God will call Cyrus to world leadership. Heaven has surnamed him. The Sovereign of the universe has promised to give him success, to open for him the gates of brass, to put the fear of him upon all the kings of the earth. The word of prophecy cannot fail. I must be loyal to my king so long as Babylon stands, but I confidently look for Cyrus to appear in the not far distant future. In this assurance let us have hope. God will reward our faith. We must, even in this strange land, be true to the trust committed to us. When the hour strikes, be ready to move to the homeland. You and I will surely see the fulfilment of our desires at the end of the seventy years."

_____

*Isaiah wrote these words near B.C. 712. Cyrus was born according to the best light we have about B.C. 580. He captured Babylon B.C. 538.

ASTYAGES, king of the Medes, ruling under authority fl of the King of Babylon, was much perplexed. His spirit was depressed. Forebodings of disaster filled his mind. Looking forth from his palace window upon his capital city, Ecbatana, now bathed in radiant morning sunlight, he questioned himself what the frightening dreams of the night could mean.

The king's tranquility of mind was disturbed because of two reasons. Striking dreams always bothered him. He was a believer in dreams, but that he should dream twice in one night about his only child, the Princess Mandane, grieved him beyond measure. He felt certain the dream had been repeated for emphasis. That he and his kingdom were concerned, was evident. He would send at once for the Magi and learn the import of such vivid impressions as at that moment occupied his mental vision.

Obedient to the king's summons, three Magi hastened to the palace. Discerning they had been invited to a secret audience, they felt certain they were to be consulted upon some grave question.

Austere, crafty, ambitious, and learned, these worldly-wise men would do anything to hold their control over the king's mind and to retain his confidence. They were experts in bending all evidence in religious and political matters in their own favor. That they should hold such subtle influence over the king seems strange to us who are living in a more enlightened age, until we remember that some present day rulers also have their Magi.

History tells us that Astyages was a proud, vicious, pleasure. loving monarch. He was more fond of hunting, and more pleased with his wine, with much form and ceremony, with his female slaves, concubines, and dancing girls, than with running his kingdom. This task he left quite largely to his princes, the Magi, and the Highpriest of Bel.

Arrayed in regal robes, he entered his private audience chamber. He was unattended. No other ears must hear his dreams of such evident vital import. He felt already certain of the correct interpretation, but he desired the Magi to affirm and give counsel.

The king being seated, the Magi stepped forward with customary obeisance, anxious to learn the reason for their being thus summoned.

"Most noble Magi," said the king; "during the night I had two dreams, and I am greatly troubled to ascertain the truth concerning them. These soul-disturbing visions gave me no rest. As you are aware, my daughter, the Princess Mandane, is betrothed to a prince of Persia, Cambyses by name. I dreamed last night about Mandane.

"From her there seemed to grow a grape vine, which grew and grew until it covered the earth. I was being choked by it when I was suddenly awakened.

"Falling asleep again near break of day, I dreamed again. I observed that there issued from Mandane a terrible flood of water. It seemed to submerge the whole earth. I was drowning in this flood when I awakened.

"Magi, I have not slept since. You must tell me quickly what these dreams portend. What do they mean to me and to my kingdom?"

"O King, live forever! Give thy servants a moment for counsel, a few minutes in which to offer incense to the gods, and thou shalt have thy request.

"Mandane, thy daughter, is a beautiful but gentle princess. She loves thee. She loves our nation. Put thy heart at rest. Peace be to thy soul and peace be upon thy realm. Take some food. We will return presently with the interpretation."

"Go! But I command you to return hither quickly."

Bowing low, the Magi retired with their faces always toward the king. They entered the temple of Bel.

Going into the throne room, the king summoned his cupbearer.

"Gobi, I have no desire for food. Serve me some red wine. Have in the royal slaves to entertain me with. harp and dance until the Magi return."

But the wine, the music, the fantastic, barbaric rhythm of the female dancers, did not quiet the selfish, angry, yet fearful thoughts that would return to the king's mind. He bore great affection of a certain sort for his daughter Mandane, but where his own life and kingdom were at stake, he could not compromise. What advice would his wise men render? Hopeful expectation led him again into the audience chamber, when the gatemen announced the Magi had returned.

"O King, live eternally? Thy servants will now give thee the interpretation of thy dreams. The fair princess, thy daughter Mandane, is betrothed to Cambyses, the Persian. Beware of their offspring. If their first-born be a man-child, thou must destroy him. Then thou shalt obtain favor of the gods and peace shall rest upon thy kingdom and upon thyself."

"Magi, your counsel is wise. The royal wedding is appointed for the coming full moon. If the princess later gives birth to a man-child, I will destroy him and heed the advice of the king's loyal Magi. My dreams were a kindly warning from our national gods. Let all this matter be kept a secret. The power is mine. Cambyses is a prince, but Persia is only a nation of disorganized, independent units. I have wealth and soldiers. Persia has none. Therefore, I have nothing to fear. Pray that the gods may bless me with a son, my kingdom with an heir. You shall be richly rewarded for this day's service. . . ."

The twenty-year-old Median princess, knowing naught of her father's dreams, lived in happy anticipation of her coming marriage. Unlike most oriental betrothals, Mandane was well acquainted with her prince, for Cambyses had lived as a youth in the household of King Astyages. They had been playmates and childhood sweethearts. Not many moons had passed since she had last seen him, and now, with heart all aglow, she directed her maidens in the packing of her royal trousseau. Cambyses was soon coming for her and all she claimed as hers was going with him into the heart of Persia.

To her, her father of late seemed somewhat cool and distant, but this she attributed to his unwillingness to have his only child leave the palace. She loved the queen-mother and the king, but her very natural affection for her lover outweighed the ties of home and parents.

She had vague ideas of what Persia would be like. Media was a land of hills and valleys. It was for this reason that King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon made his famous hanging gardens, that his beautiful Median wife might have some of her childhood scenery. The country around Babylon is flat.

Mandane did not expect as grand a home in Pasargadae, the ancient capital of Persia, as she had in Ecbatana. She knew the Persians at that time were not so rich and progressive as the Medes. Of that she cared little. She was going with Cambyses and that was sufficient.

Her mind reviewed their youthful days together and dwelt long upon the tales she had heard of the courage, strength, and manliness of the prince who, on the day following the next full moon, would claim her as his bride. She must be ready. To be prepared to become the wife of a prince occupied all her time, as others prepared for the great wedding feast.

Invitations were sent to a thousand guests. All the elite of the kingdom of Media must be present at the marriage of Princess Mandane. The king's only child must be granted every favor. A union of the kingdoms of Media and Persia was to be consummated. The peerage of Media, the army officers, courtly visitors from other lands, the Magi, and the chief of the priesthood were summoned. Lords and ladies vied with 'ne another to look the most prosperous and fashionable on this very rare occasion.

No means were spared by King Astyages to make this wedding reflect his power and glory. Rich decorations, costly equipage, gorgeous costumes, sumptuous viands, ancient vintage, rare perfumes, sparkling jewels, besides additional musicians, dancers, and entertainers, were secured from many lands. The escort of Prince Cambyses must be favorably impressed with the wealth and dignity of their neighboring kingdom.

Twenty-five hundred years have brought great changes in styles, customs, and modes of travel, but the love of display, the pride of life, the desire for ease where wealth is acquired, the interest in royal weddings, have not changed with the lapse of time.

The interest of every Mede, from the richest landowner, with his host of slaves, to the poorest shepherd of the hills, centered in the event of the next full moon. The Princess Mandane was upon every tongue. For many weeks custom had kept her from the public eye. Alone in her room, save for maidens and obedient servants, she was adding to her physical charms the benefit of rare perfume and costly ointment.

Daily she received splendid gifts of robes, jewelry, myrrh, gold, rugs, and other expensive articles from the invited guests. Some wished to court influence with the king and his powerful daughter. Others gave because they truly loved the Median princess. She, amid such regal surroundings, remained the same unspoiled, gentle lady. She was a bit proud and conscious of her beauty and position; yet fairness and justice, combined with loyalty to the duties of womankind, made her a strong character. Hers was a life worth living; one that had something worth giving.

Such was the girl who was to become the mother of "Cyrus the Great." Truly great men of earth have been blessed generally with great mothers. Whenever God picks a man for a big task, He first looks for a great woman.

It was the night of the full moon, the last night Mandane would spend in the palace of Ecbatana. Walking out onto the portico from her own chamber, she watched the moon, so round and bright, rise over the distant mountains.

She was happy, for she knew that Cambyses loved her. She remembered so well the day he killed his first stag. Returning from the hunt, proud of his achievement, and flushed with boyish hopes, he had said to her, "Mandane, you will be my princess forever, won't you?" She had replied, "That is a matter in Media for fathers to decide."

The king's decision, however, had been very agreeable to both.

The evening was warm. Mandane entered the moonlight flooded room, and lay down upon her ivory bed; but not to sleep, only to dream. What girl ever slept much the night before her wedding, if she truly loved? Mandane longed for the breaking of the day, which would bring the royal ambassadors from Persia and the prince she adored. She waited for the pounding of horses' hoofs, the sound of blowing trumpets, and the sight of the dust cloud, which would herald his approach.

The next morning guests began to arrive early and occupy the spacious halls and reception rooms of the king's palace. The sacred altar from the temple had been carried to the

king's court. It stood smoking near the foot of the throne steps. The Highpriest of Bel, who would officiate at the wedding, in his purple robes, was seen at times to place incense on the golden altar.

In an adjoining room, tables were spread for a thousand guests, besides those who would come as a part of the prince's retinue. The walls were hung with Indian tapestry. Thick Persian rugs covered the floor. Festoons of flowers adorned the pillars. Sweet odors almost choked the attending company.

The king and queen in royal attire were seated upon a dual throne. To them the guests made proper obeisance, according to their rank.

In her apartment Mandane and her ten maidens were ready. A jeweled diadem, a gift from her father, rested upon her raven tresses. All eyes waited to behold her, the loveliness of perfect youth. The great thrill for the guests at an oriental wedding, as it is perhaps in our own land, is the first view of the bride. Mandane, conscious of the adoration of her father's subjects, would get her thrill when she would see the smile of welcome on the face of her princely wooer.

The sun was almost overhead, when the watchmen over the towers in the high gate, blew their trumpets long, to announce the approach of Cambyses. Another hour must pass before the city gate would swing wide to welcome him within. Double lines of soldiers marked the way from the gate of the palace to the throne.

At a signal from the king, Mandane with her ten maidens entered from the rear and took their places on the right side of the king. Silence still as death fell over the vast concourse. All were enraptured by the tableau on the throne steps. Mind can hardly conceive of a more entrancing scene.

Gatemen brought word that Cambyses and his noble escort had arrived outside the palace gate. The prince had ridden in his own chariot, his escort upon Arabian steeds. Ten young men, the finest and noblest of Persia, had been chosen as his guard of honor. A hundred soldiers added dignity to his procession. Forming in line outside the gate, they awaited the king's command for the gate to be opened. As it turned back, each half on its brazen hinges, revealing to all within the slightly different costumes and uniforms of the Persians, a mighty shout of welcome arose from all within.

Through double lines of soldiers Cambyses 'and his ten young men began their march toward the throne. All eyes were now riveted upon him, the prince who had come for the Median princess. His soldiers remained just within the open gate. His guard of honor followed him at a short distance as he proceeded forward to meet the king. When Cambyses had covered half the distance from the gate to the throne steps, Astyages and his queen arose, descended the steps, and near the smoking altar awaited the prince. There he knelt and kissed the king's ring. He bowed slightly to the queen. Then the king embraced him and said a few words in an undertone, which others did not hear.

Turning his head a little to the left, he caught the eyes of Mandane and smiled. Her face flushed a trifle. She and her ten maidens walked slowly down the throne steps and took a position also before the golden altar. There is no open show of affection at an oriental wedding. Ofttimes there is none manifested after the wedding, the woman being little above a slave. In this instance, it was decidedly different.

In a voice the silent audience could hear distinctly, the Highpriest of Bel addressed Cambyses:

"Dost thou, most noble prince Cambyses, in the presence of our most mighty King Astyages and the Highpriest of Bel, accept the Princess Mandane to be thy wife, to live with her according to the rules of the Medes and Persians, which cannot e altered?"

"I do."

Placing the hand of Mandane in that of her betrothed, he continued:

"As thou hast publicly given thine oath, I give thee this maiden to be thy wife. She is as pure as the snow that falls in winter. May the great Be! add his blessing to the union of the kingdoms of Media and Persia," (Astyages trembled as he added:) "and may your posterity be as numerous as the stars in heaven."

This ceremony over, the king and Cambyses led the guests into the banquet room. The king and prince sat at a high table by themselves. Near them sat the young men who had accompanied Cambyses from Persia. Not far away at another high table, sat the queen-mother and Mandane with her maidens. The remaining couches were filled with the invited guests.

Slaves heaped the tables with food and wine. Dancers and harpers furnished various types of entertainment. It was indeed a gay assembly, and a!! became merry ere the hour was over.

Near the close of the feast, the king addressed Cambyses:

"Most noble son, I have one request to ask of you. Give me your promise before you take my daughter away to Persia."

"Most mighty king, if at all possible, thy request shall be granted."

"Promise me that Mandane will return to her father's palace to give birth to her first-born."

"That I can promise."

The king and the prince arose, followed by the queen and the princess.

Turning to Mandane, Cambyses asked,--and these were the first words he had spoken directly to her-- "Will you ride with me in my chariot, or use your own?" "I will ride with thee in thine," she replied. At the palace gate farewells were uttered. Cambyses again kissed the king's signet, and the hand of the queen. Mandane embraced both her parents. Then, entering his chariot, the prince and his bride began the return journey to the land of Persia. Other chariots, loaded with the king's dower and the personal effects of the princess, followed.

A new world in location and experience lay before Mandane, the Median princess.

RABBI HERMON'S daughter Esther had been a silent listener at the secret gathering in her father's house. She greatly admired Daniel, the man of God, who stood so high in the king's court.

Nearly eighteen years of age, she had been instructed most carefully in the Jewish religion, and she had great confidence in her father's teaching. Rabbi Hermon was a good man. He was kind to his family, which is the best test of a nan's religion. He commanded the respect of others. Esther loved her father, and he trusted her. He knew she would do nothing that she would not willingly confide in him. For this reason he granted her unusual liberties. Contrary to their ancient custom, she was permitted to converse freely in the home with the young friends of her brother Hananiah.

Of all her brother's close friends, she liked Mishael Ben Israel best. His father was a scribe, and he was also present that eventful night when Daniel expounded the Scriptural prophecies, which foretold the Jews' return. The two families were among the most loyal of those who remained steadfast in their worship of Jehovah. They grieved because of the influence the Babylonians exerted over many of their fellow countrymen.

A few days after the meeting in Rabbi Hermon's house, Mishael called with a message of utmost importance to all the Jews in the capital. To Hananiah and Esther he said:

"Daniel, as you know, is away in the distant provinces on business of state. The king has just issued a decree that all the young men, in fact, all the ruling class of the kingdom must meet at the golden image tomorrow at noon. We have all been wondering why the king has made this enormous statue. It is sixty cubits tall! But if I mistake not, it is an insult to the God of heaven.

"You will recall that last spring Daniel told us of a wonderful dream that the king had dreamed. He saw a great image with a head of gold. Daniel told the king that this head of gold represented Babylon, and then he told Nebuchadnezzar that the breast and arms, which were of silver, stood for another kingdom, which would follow after Babylon and which would be somewhat inferior in splendor to the golden head. Now, it seems to me that King Nebuchadnezzar is attempting to show, by making this image all of gold, that he believes Babylon will continue on forever and that there will be no other kingdom to follow.

"Anyhow, we are all required to meet there tomorrow for some grand ceremony. Esther, you may be thankful women are excluded from this large gathering. I will bring Azariah in the morning and the three of us will go together. What do you say to that, Hahaniah?"

As he arose to leave, Esther's father left his study and accompanied him to the door.

"Remember, my son, we know not what tomorrow holds forth. Promise me that whatever turn events may take, you will be true to God. You can safely trust Him in every emergency."

Early next morning throngs gathered on the plains of Dura. At high noon the king was expected to sit upon his temporary throne near the golden image. To the surprise of all, not far from the throne stood a great furnace. In it a fire was even then burning.

Shortly before the hour appointed, Nebuchadnezzar, accompanied by his higher counselors and a strong guard of soldiers, was seen approaching. The sea of humanity opened for him to proceed to the raised platform, upon which his throne and seats for his wise men had been placed.

When the king of a mighty world empire arose to speak, silence prevailed. Expectancy filled every breast.

"Hear, O men of Babylon, governors of the whole world. I have built for you the most beautiful city on earth. Every-where mankind is subject to my will. In honor of my mighty kingdom, I have erected this great statue of gold. I and my offspring shall rule this world forever. My descendants shall always sit upon the throne of the Babylonian empire. I command all, as soon as the musicians cease playing, to bow in worship to this golden image, which in fact, represents myself. Any who fail to bow, will by my soldiers be thrown into this fiery furnace. All who believe that Babylon will remain forever will show it by bowing."

It took much courage, in the face of the command of an absolute despot, for our three Hebrew friends to refuse to bow. They knew that another kingdom would follow the fall of Babylon. They believed it was not right to worship an image made by man. How many other Jews were there who did bow we do not know. Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah stood erect. They had sworn allegiance and worship to God alone. They respected every man-made law which did not conflict with the higher law of the Most High. Many sacrificed their consciences in obedience to a command of a despotic ruler. What a sight for the whole universe to behold! Heaven took cognizance of their loyalty.

Strange that amid such a vast throng these three Hebrew youths would be noticed. But like all who stand true to principle, they had enemies. These jealous spies were watching them, knowing well what they would do. Their action was at once reported to the king.

Nebuchadnezzar sent for them.

"Young men, do you presume to disobey the command of Babylon's king? Were you other of my subjects, I would not deign even to speak with you over this matter. I had great hopes for you three. You passed your examinations in my school most creditably, and your conduct up until now has been very exemplary. For these reasons I will grant you one more opportunity. If you now obey, the offense will be for. given. But I warn you, this is your last chance. It would be a pity that out of all this host I should be forced to send you three to the furnace."

Mishael answered the king:

"O King, live forever! We willingly, from principle, obey you in all matters not pertaining to conscience. God is higher than you, and our first obligation is to Him. He is almighty, all powerful. If He deems it wise to do so, He will save us from your fiery furnace, for He is able. But should He think it not best for us and for thee, O King, we are ready to die for Him.

"We do not desire the second chance you offer us. Our decision is final. As much as we appreciate your apparent kindness to us personally, we can only state that never will we bow in worship to your golden image, or to any other you may cause to be erected."

At this bold challenge the king was furious. When passion comes in at the door, wisdom goes out the window. He caused the furnace to be heated seven times hotter. Just why he did this seems a bit confusing. If he really desired to prolong punishment for his rebellious officers, a slow fire would have been more painful. Perhaps he thought to make it more difficult for their God to save them. Then he commanded the most mighty of his soldiers to bind the three youths and cast them in. The fire was so hot that it killed the soldiers who tossed them into the furnace.

What a spectacle! How interested every one must have In these proceedings, especially the enemies of the Hebrews. When one is full of himself, he is empty. Thus it was with Nebuchadnezzar. Daniel, in his book, tells us the story. Shall we not quote some of the exact words of inspiration?

"Because the king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame of the fire slew the men who took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. [The Chaldean names the king had given Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah.]

"Then Nebuchadnezzar, the king, was astonished, and rose in haste, and spake, and said unto his counselors, Did not we not cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O King.

"He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.

"Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came forth of the midst of the fire.

"And the princes, governors, and captains and the king's counselors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was a hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them.

"Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said: Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent His angel, and delivered His servants that trusted in Him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God.

"Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which shall speak anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces and their bones shall be made a dung hill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort."

Sincere or otherwise, we admire the king for changing his attitude so suddenly. In this experience he probably received the rebuke he needed. Doubtless he now believed that the God who could deliver after this sort his men whom he had condemned to death, could also take his kingdom from him. He must now believe the statement of the prophet that his. Babylon would not continue forever.

With grateful rejoicing Mishael and his two friends returned to the home of Rabbi Hermon. They were youths who caused much wonder. The experience they had passed through seemed too sacred for words. Reverently, Mishael told the story to Esther and her father.

When he had concluded, Esther spoke:

"At the hour of noon I was impressed especially to pray. Somehow, I felt you were all in danger. I am grateful to feel I had a small part in your great deliverance"

"And, dear ones," spoke Mishael, "God will continue to deliver. Just so surely as He has delivered us from the fire and the king's wrath, and brought praise to His name by restoring our countrymen again to favor, just so surely will a deliverer one day arise who will free us from Babylon's servitude. The prophet tells us that near the end of the seventy years he will appear, and Isaiah has surnamed him Cyrus."

THE marriage of Cambyses and Mandane, while in a sense a political union, was in reality the fruit of love. Arriving at the Persian capital, the princess found it certain, as she had been wont to believe, that she was the only wife. Her honeymoon days were days of dreaming. Cambyses constantly assured her that his love for her would never permit him to take another wife into the household so long as she was living.

Love is a very rare quality. So many emotions are mistaken for love. Of all the counterfeits, lust has always been love's strongest opponent. Nothing is so wonderful, so conducive to happiness, so health-producing, as the heart union of two lives, where true love reigns and lust has no power.

And thus it was with the parents of Cyrus. A year sped rapidly by, and each new day brought increased joy. Mandane could have hugged herself for happiness when she be-, came aware that she was to become a mother. Her constant prayer to the gods was that her first-born might be a son. In a son her husband would be doubly happy. During those care-free days, how little did she anticipate the dark cloud that was coming!

Cambyses had not forgotten the sacred pledge he had made to King Astyages the day of his wedding. He little understood the reason for the king's request, but he had given his promise, and he must fulfil it. As her time drew near, he told Mandane. She, too, was a little perplexed, but finding no way to decline to go, she felt that the long ride should be delayed no longer.

She wanted to believe that it was parental affection that had made her father request such a move, but a small doubt lingered in her mind. It is quite unusual for a girl to return to her father's house at such a time in oriental lands.

To please both her father and her husband, one bright morning she kissed her prince farewell, and with a trusty guard, set forth for the home of her childhood. It was painful to leave Cambyses in Persia, but state duties would not permit of his being away for so long a time.

She dispatched a rider on ahead to announce her coming. Mandane dared not ride swiftly. The evening of the seventh day, the familiar landscape of Ecbatana came into view. Both joy and sorrow entered her heart, as she looked upon the land and city which was once home.

Many moons had come and gone since she had bidden adieu to her father and mother. No brother or sister awaited her. Because of her present physical condition, she knew no public feast would be given in her honor. The old family servants would welcome her. She believed her parents would rejoice at her health and increased womanly beauty. Nothing increases a woman's beauty like being loved.

Her father's greeting, she thought, was a trifle cool, but her mother's embrace was genuine. Her old room had been prepared for her. That night a tear dropped on each cheek as she walked out onto the portico to observe the moon rise full over the hills of the border country.

In spite of the fact that all seemed to do their best to make her visit a pleasant one, the question was always in her mind as to why her father had exacted such a promise from her husband. At times she was rebellious. Then she would remember that for the sake of the one she carried under her heart, she must be cheerful and hopeful and patient. Doubtless Cyrus owed much of his force of character and his indomitable spirit to win to pre-natal influences.

How different was his birth from that of the average child today! When the majority are ushered into life unwelcome, with scarcely a thought on the part of either parent as to their parental responsibility, can we wonder at the juvenile delinquency we experience everywhere?

A eunuch came from the women's quarters with a message for the king. For days Astyages had awaited this messenger.

His evident nervousness bespoke his inward feeling.

"What is the word, Dodo?"

"The Highpriestess of Bel wishes me to inform the king that thy daughter, the Princess Mandane, has given birth to a man-child. Thou art this day a grandfather. The Highpriestess has put the fragrant oil upon him and named him 'Cyrus.' May the gods bless thee."

At this news the king paled, but half expecting such report, he had prepared himself for it. Love for self and kingdom had, for some time, been fighting within him with love for daughter, and self had won the battle. But how to carry into effect the counsel of his Magi, was a problem which gave him no little concern.

To openly put to death his own grandson, the child of Mandane, whom every one loved, might bring revolution at home and certainly no end of trouble in Persia. He must do by stratagem, secretly, what he dare not do openly. Young Cyrus must die! While within his power, it must be accomplished. Prince Cyrus must never be permitted to return to Persia. Cambyses must never see his first-born. The king did not forget that he had Mandane to reckon with.

Shortly after Mandane's arrival at Ecbatana, her mother had opened her heart and confided to her the news that during the months she had been away, Astyages had taken to himself another wife.

This news came at first as a shock to the princess, although she knew it was the customary thing to do. Oriental kings usually had many concubines, but they seldom took a second wife, except when the first bore them no son and heir.

Astyages had chosen his young bride from the coast province of Lydia where Croesus, with his wealth, later reigned. These two thus became by marriage distant relatives. Here in Lydia, at a later date, Cyrus was also to play a part, as our narrative will reveal.

The king was greatly enamored with his new wife. The old one was practically cast aside. For years the queen-mother had bewailed the fact that she was unable to give Astyages a son. That he waited more than twenty years after the birth of Mandane, as long as he could possibly entertain any hope, is that much in his favor.

Nevertheless, the queen wept bitterly as she poured forth the story into the ears of her sympathetic daughter. By this circumstance the two were brought very close together. When Mandane gave birth to a son, the queen-mother was almost beside herself with joy.

The wily old king used this bond of affection to forward his own evil designs.

One day he quite surprised his daughter by paying her a visit. He had never called upon her in the women's quarters before. Cyrus was three weeks old. Only once had the king seen his grandson. This day the king professed that he had called for the express purpose of having a look at Cyrus.

When the child was brought to Mandane by his nurse, Astyages seemed pleased and remarked what a perfect manchild the babe was. The princess was delighted that her father had paid her and Cyrus a special visit.

"Yes, father, I am indeed grateful my first-born is a boy. My respected husband will have no occasion to marry a second wife."

"True, my daughter. It is this which brought me to your private apartment. Long years I waited, hoping against hope.

I am not a youth myself any longer. Your mother takes it very sorrowfully, but I must have an heir to the throne of Media. Ambition has supplanted love. However, I greatly desire to ease your mother's burden, to cure the pain in her heart."

To this end the king presented to Mandane the following arrangement.

"While young Cyrus is your son, he is in a sense her son Her life is wrapped up in his life. Do you not owe your mother who bore you a debt? Would you not be willing for her and to help heal our marital trouble, to permit Cyrus abide with us for a season after you return to Persia? Let him remain until your mother grows more accustomed to my

having a new wife. You can trust him with your mother. He will have the best of care and attention possible. It is wiser than to attempt to take him on such a long journey while he is so young. He shall have wet nurses and maids aplenty. All that my kingdom can afford will be given him. Mandane, I request that you leave Cyrus for a little time with us."

"But, father, Cambyses has never looked upon his first-born. Surely he has some rights."

"True, Mandane; I have thought of that also. I shall write him to come for you in person. Then he will see his son."

This last the king said as a compromise. And so it was finally agreed. For the sake of the queen-mother, young Cyrus was left in the palace of Astyages. Cambyses did not favor it, but he was willing to abide by the promise of his wife even as she had stood by him in his promise to the king. Agreeing to return for Cyrus before the rainy season, his parents bade him a fond farewell.

They had not arrived in Persia before her mother heart yearned for her babe. They stopped at the first shrine to offer sacrifice to their paternal gods, imploring their assistance in watching over their absent child.

The grandparents in Persia were decidedly taken back by the turn events had taken. Cambyses assured them it was only a temporary arrangement. Both he and Mandane owed a debt to the Medes. Many years Mandane's mother had also mothered him. Now, to cheer her lonely heart, they were willing to make a small sacrifice.

THE celebration of the birth of Cyrus in Ecbatana came to I the ears of the Jews in Babylon. Traveling tradesmen carried the news hither. To the world in general his birth was no more than the birth of any other prince, but the captive Hebrews saw in him their promised deliverer. Great rejoicing filled the hearts of all the loyal ones at this revelation of the working of Providence. Special services were held; grateful prayers offered. A new hope dispelled gloom.

Within the city of Babylon herself, they were also to see the marvelous outworking of that power which punishes, sooner or later, all transgression, but grants mercy to the humble and penitent.

King Nebuchadnezzar had grown increasingly proud of his achievements. Having been given two very marked instances of Jehovah's wisdom and power, he must be called to account for his refusal to walk in the light given. Not even age frees one from the temptation to make a fool of oneself. Up until now Nebuchadnezzar would see and approve of the better course, but follow the worse. He had to be given one more lesson before his heart inclined fully toward the true God.

If there is one thing heaven hates in man it is pride. Not self-respect, but that quality of pride which causes a man to think more highly of himself than he ought. The old adage, "Pride goeth before a fall," applies perfectly to the experience that now befell Nebuchadnezzar.

The captives in Babylon had just heard of the birth of Cyrus when a strange event occurred in the king's palace. To all save a very few, it came unexpectedly.

About a year previous, in an endeavor to check Nebuchadnezzar in his downward career, God had given him a forceful dream. Would that today some of earth's proud, ambitious rulers might heed the lesson the king of Babylon was taught. We will let Nebuchadnezzar tell his experience in his own words as recorded in the fourth chapter of the book of Daniel.

"Nebuchadnezzar the king, unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you.

"I thought it good to show the signs and wonders that the high God hath wrought toward me.

"How great are His signs! and how mighty are His wonders! His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and His dominion is from generation to generation.

"I Nebuchadnezzar, was at rest in mine home, and flourishing in my palace:

"I saw a dream which made me afraid, and the thoughts upon my bed and the visions of my head troubled me.

"Therefore made I a decree to bring in all the wise men of Babylon before me, that they might make known unto me the interpretation of the dream.

"Then came in the magicians, the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers: and I told the dream before them; but they did not make known unto me the interpretation thereof.

"But at the last Daniel came in before me, whose name was Belteshazzar, according to the name of my god, and in whom is the spirit of the holy gods: and before him I told my dream, saying,

"O Belteshazzar, master of the magicians, because 1 know that the spirit of the holy gods is in thee, tell me the visions of my dream that I have seen, and the interpretation thereof.

"Thus were the visions of mine head in my bed; I saw, and behold, a tree in the midst of the earth, and the height thereof was great.

"The tree grew, and was strong, and the height thereof reached unto heaven, and the sight thereof to the end of all the earth:

"The leaves thereof were fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it was meat for all: the beasts of the field had shadow under it, and the fowls of the heaven dwelt in the boughs thereof, and all flesh was fed of it.

"I saw in the visions of my head upon my bed, and, behold, a watcher and an holy one came down from heaven;

"He cried aloud, and said thus, Hew down the tree, and cut off his branches, shake off his leaves, and scatter his fruit: let the beasts get away from under it, and the fowls from his branches:

"Nevertheless leave the stump of his roots in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven and let his portion be with the beasts in the grass of the earth:

"Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him; and let seven times pass over him.

"This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever He will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.

"This dream I, King Nebuchadnezzar, have seen. Now then, O Belteshazzar, declare the interpretation thereof, for as much as all the wise men of my kingdom are not able to make known unto me the interpretation: but thou art able; for the spirit of the holy gods is in thee.

"Then Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, was astonished for one hour, and his thoughts troubled him. The king spake, and said, Belteshazzar, let not the dream, or the interpretation thereof, trouble thee. Belteshazzar answered and said, My lord, the dream be to them that hate thee, and the interpretation thereof to thine enemies.

"The tree that thou sawest, which grew, and was strong, whose height reached unto heaven, and the sight thereof to all the earth;

"Whose leaves were fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it was meat for all; under which the beasts of the field dwelt, and upon whose branches the fowls of the heaven had their habitation:

"It is thou, O king, that art grown and become strong: for thy greatness is grown, and reacheth unto heaven, and thy dominion to the end of the earth.

"And whereas the king saw a watcher and an holy one coming down from heaven, and saying, Hew the tree down, and destroy it; yet leave the stump of the roots thereof in the earth, even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts of the field, till seven times pass over him;

"This is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree of the Most High, which is come upon my lord the king:

"That they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and they shall make thee to eat grass as oxen, and they shall wet thee with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over thee, till thou know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever He will.

"And whereas they commanded to leave the stump of the tree roots; thy kingdom shall be sure unto thee, after that thou shalt have known that the heavens do rule.

"Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness and thine iniquities by showing mercy to the poor; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity.

"All this came upon the King Nebuchadnezzar.

"At the end of twelve months he walked in the palace of the kingdom of Babylon.

"The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honor of my majesty?

"While the word was in the king's mouth, there fell a voice from heaven, saying, O King Nebuchadnezzar, to thee it is spoken; thy kingdom is departed from thee.

"And they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling place shall be with the beasts of the fields; they shall make thee eat grass like oxen, and seven times shall pass over thee, until thou know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever He will.

"The same hour was the thing fulfilled upon Nebuchadnezzar; and he was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till his hairs were grown like eagles' feathers, and his nails like bird's claws.

"And at the end of the days I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the Most High, and I praised and honored Him, that liveth forever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and His kingdom is from generation to generation.

"And all the inhabitants of earth are reputed as nothing: and He doeth according to His will in the army of Heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay His hand, or say unto Him, What doest thou?

"At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, mine honor and brightness returned unto me; and my counselors and my lords sought unto me; and I was established in my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me.

"Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, all whose works are truth, and His ways judgment; and those that walk in pride He is able to abase."

During the seven years Nebuchadnezzar was mentally deranged, his kingdom made great progress. Daniel and the governors had charge of the affairs of state. This was the most favorable period of the years of the Jewish captivity. God gave them rest and quiet on every side, which did not close until the end of Nebuchadnezzar's reign.

But his son and grandson, refusing to profit by the example of their father, brought the golden kingdom to an end. Cyrus had come as predicted, and inspiration from here on deals with the overthrow of Babylon and the rise of the new kingdom, the rise of the man who would not only treat the Jews kindly, but would permit them to return to their native land.

It was during these eventful seven years that Mishael Ben Israel took as his bride the charming, trustful daughter of Rabbi Hermon. Years of sorrow followed for Esther and Mishael. They had a short season of quiet, married bliss, then came a change. Gray hairs crowned their heads ere they saw the fruition of their hopes and became leaders of the company which returned to Palestine under the first decree of Cyrus.
 
 

UNHOLYambition has brought ruin to many a man who has followed her unhal1owed footsteps. Multitudes of the human family have suffered and died because of the ambition of one. He .that loses his conscience has, nothing left that is worth keeping.

King Astyages believed that the future for his expected posterity and for his kingdom, depended upon his putting Cyrus to death. Had not his dreams forewarned him? Had not his Magi decreed it? That his kingdom might continue, he was willing to cause the death of his grandson, the child of his only daughter. Since his day, how many ambitions to rule have done even worse!

With Mandane away in her own land, he had but one person in his household who would offer any resistance to his foul purpose. He had intrusted the child to the queen-mother, and well he knew that it would be no easy task to win her consent to the murder of her grandson.

Not that the king lacked the power to take the child forcibly from his wife. The affair must be kept a secret. None but those very close to him could know of his plans, and they must be sworn to secrecy or else the whole affair would sooner or later react upon himself.

The king's purpose was to give Cyrus to one of his most trusted princes to be destroyed. Another babe, supposedly Cyrus, would die of illness in the palace. He would be buried with royal honors, and his parents notified that he was dead.

Naturally, the king's first move would be to win over the queen-mother. He had not seen her since the public celebration of the birth of Cyrus. A messenger summoned her to the king's audience chamber. She came, but wondering greatly what the call could mean. At this time Cyrus was nearly six weeks old.

For a long time Astyages had meditated over what approach he should make to his first wife. It had been comparatively easy to secure the permission of his parents for Cyrus to remain in Ecbatana, but now he knew he must be ready to compromise much if he were to succeed in winning over the boy's guardian.

Because she was hateful and envious over her rival in the household, she would be best approached, decided the king, by way of reconciliation over this matter.

Greeting her with assumed regard and former friendliness, he said:

"Most noble woman, you have been my good and faithful wife. For nearly twenty-five years we shared the marriage bed together. But you gave me no son, no heir. I loved you too sincerely to marry another so long as there seemed any hope. Time ends all things. If during the past few months I have seemed to have forgotten you, it is not because I love you less, but because I love Media more. I feel that the cause of Media demands that I should have an heir. Believe me, I love you as much as ever."

The queen listened quietly, said nothing in reply for a moment, and then calmly spoke:

"Most noble lord, our home was happy until this woman came in hither. When you first brought her and left my bed, I felt bitter. I do not feel quite the same now. Your ambition must be satisfied. I have my doubts that all will work out as you anticipate. How am I to know you still love me? Think you your actions of late bespeak that you love me?"

"Most noble lady, it is for this purpose, to answer this very question, that today I have invited your presence here. I have grieved you much. It has been, from my point of view, un. avoidable. Nevertheless, I have done you a great wrong. I beseech your pardon. I dared not return to your bed until I knew that you had forgiven me. If you will overlook this emergency move and again join with me in the hope of a greater kingdom, I will be most happy, and I am ready to return to you. At forty-five you are a better wife than she is at twenty. My fair one, say that all is well, and welcome me to your arms again tonight."

There is a long distance between some people's tongue and their heart. Had not King Astyages an axe to grind, he never would have spoken thus. This was not the only time, or the first or last time, that flattery worked with a woman. The king did not tell her that his hoped-for heir was hopefully near. The queen was pleased with his fair speech, and did what ninety-nine out of every hundred women of her day would have done, -- welcomed him back to her confidence and love.

She was ready to tolerate the second woman for the sake of the future of the kingdom, so long as she had the affection of the king. Perhaps we might well add, so long as she thought she had it. The king had won on his first move, and he was certain that a pillow conversation would bring her fully into accord with his purpose. Many difficult things have been accomplished with two heads on the same pillow!

She was shocked at first by the king's suggestion, but being in a mood to please him, when she had listened to his two dreams, and had heard the interpretation the Magi had given, she could see some reason why the deed should be performed if the kingdom were to continue. Ignorant of the underlying working of Providence, and reasoning only from a human viewpoint, she finally sided in with the king. She felt that to do otherwise would mean her own ruin. In payment for her secrecy, the king made her many rash promises, which he never intended to keep. Womanlike, she knew how to take advantage of such an occasion. Victory over her hated rival was to be secured through the death of Cyrus.

A trusted servant was sent to one of the king's most noble princes, Harpagus by name, a close friend of Astyages, with an order for him to repair at once to the king's palace.

Accustomed to being called for counsel, Harpagus thought the summons nothing unusual. He obeyed, and was ushered into the private room of the king. There Astyages related his dream experience in detail, and then informed Harpagus that on a certain date he would deliver the babe to him to be destroyed. He was to keep all a close secret, and let nothing remain undone that the king commanded.

The prince returned to his home and a few days later a bulletin was posted in the court at Ecbatana announcing the death of Cyrus. A royal funeral was accorded the dead child of a freed slave. The burial over, a letter was sent to Persia by special carrier.

"Most worthy Prince Cambyses and Princess Mandane, my own son and daughter, Greeting: It is with much sorrow of heart that I am obliged to write you these words.

"Young Cyrus was taken suddenly ill, and in spite of your mother's constant care, and the united prayers of my people, he died suddenly three days past. All Media united in giving him a royal burial. Our hearts mourn with you. May the gods bless you with many sons. Astyages."

The feelings this letter evoked in the hearts of the fond parents of Cyrus, can be better imagined than described. Mandane's heart was broken. She reproached herself for having consented to leave her son in Ecbatana. She felt her husband would never forgive her. Even though he had granted permission, she knew he did it more to please her than for any other reason. That such a perfect child, upon whom they had both counted so much, should suddenly become ill and die, seemed to her unexplainable. There was something mysterious about the whole affair. The promise exacted from Cambyses, the request to keep the child, his sudden death, all seemed to say to her that everything was not straight in her father's household. But now she could only mourn and weep and pray -- and wait.

Cambyses was especially tender toward her during these days of sadness; and time, which softens all memories, at last healed her broken spirit. But their next child was a daughter, and then, no more! She grew bitter under the long wait.

"Oh, that my first-born had lived," was her now almost constant cry. When a little past thirty years of age, Mandane was to meet again with joy. By then sorrow had mellowed her life, and she was prepared to be carried from the lowest depths to the highest peaks.

The reported death of Cyrus was soon carried to Babylon where it caused no little stir among the Jews. To the Chaldeans his death meant nothing, but to those who had centered their hopes in him as a deliverer from captivity, it meant more than was at first apparent.

Many questions arose in even honest minds. Was there to be another Cyrus? Was this not the proper time, if their deliverance was to come within the seventy years? Why had God raised their hopes only to dash them to the ground? Was it possible for the prophetic word to fail?

Crushed and with spirits broken, they felt the whole experience was difficult to understand. Doubt crept into the minds of many. Only a few clung firmly to the promises of God.

They rested upon His Word in the face of what seemed defeat. They could not see the future, but they knew their God well enough to trust Him when everything looked dark. After weary years of waiting their faith was to be richly rewarded.

How often we doubt because, we cannot know all that is going on which we cannot see. Faith is believing God. It is taking Him at His word. It is evidence when there is no evidence in sight. It is "the substance of things hoped for." Belief is accepting a map; faith is taking the journey.

Soon after the report that Cyrus was dead reached the capital city, a special meeting was called at the home of Rabbi Hermon. Among the Jews there were many skeptical ones, to whom the news of Cyrus' death brought rejoicing rather than sadness. Some were very open in their reproaches of the loyal company, who had encouraged them to look to Cyrus as the coming deliverer. Others chose to forget the whole subject and live only for the present. They were content to remain in servitude to the Babylonians. A small company, who had the honor of God at heart, met to discuss the situation with Rabbi Hermon.

To this meeting Daniel was invited and he hoped to be able to attend, but would arrive a trifle late. He was very busy with state affairs, but all the faithful in Israel looked to him for light during this dark hour. This man of God could see farther on his knees than the doubters could see on tiptoe. Three times each day he knelt in the palace with his window open toward his own Jerusalem, and prayed to the God of heaven. As prime minister of earth's golden empire, he needed divine wisdom. Far better for earth's nations today, did more of her statesmen share the faith of Daniel! A man begins to go do ti eases to look up. No man makes the most of life who does not make the most of prayer. 1t is well to tune out every other station and listen to station G-O-D, Daniel believed in the plan, "When in doubt ask God."

Rabbi Hermon addressed his guests:

"Fellow Israelites: When the future looks dark, it is time to rest and trust in almighty power. Some of the works of Providence seem hard of understanding. I have learned that there are some things we do not need to understand. We must be willing to let God know some things we do not. We may know that what the prophets have written will most certainly come to pass. Life's darkest roads oft lead to the brightest prospects. David, the world's poet, found his brightest thoughts came to him on his darkest days. The God who delivered my son and his friends from the king's fiery furnace, Is an ever present help, and He will not fail any of His trusting children.

"The history of our nation is replete with many a faith victory, and these should give us confidence during this present trial. To our father Abraham, God promised that after his posterity had been servants in a strange land, they would be delivered in the fourth generation. When the time arrived, all the power of Egypt could not hold our forefathers slaves longer. Without money, without weapons of war, without organization, under a God .appointed leader, Moses, the Hebrews passed through the Red Sea on into the land of promise. With mountains on either side, the Red Sea in front, and an Egyptian army in the rear, God's order to Moses was, 'Go forward.' Stepping forward by faith, in obedience to His Word. They found the way opened by Providence.

"I do not know how God will deliver us from this Chaldean servitude, but He has set the time limit, named the deliverer, and I am like Abraham of old when he was instructed to offer his son a burnt offering, -- I feel that if Cyrus is dead, God is able to raise him up again. Or He has some other way in which to work our deliverance for us. His divine purpose will be fulfilled.

"I am not at all disheartened by these unfavorable reports. When things look impossible to human reasoning, that is the very time for the eye of faith to look for God's intervention. He can do what He will. Did He not send Nebuchadnezzar out to grass for seven years? If we are called to wait, let us wait patiently. This report may be a test of our faith."

A stately personage entered. He had been standing just outside the entrance and had heard a part of Rabbi Hermon's remarks. All arose, for it was Daniel. 'What word of comfort had he to give this perplexed band of captives?

"Beloved children, God is good. You would not care to trust Him, if your way were always light. You would never care to walk by faith, if you could always walk by sight. The biggest lesson God is trying to teach His children is the lesson of trust. I am this night happy beyond words.

"Years ago, when the king's decree went forth that all the wise men of Babylon should be killed, I called Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, and we spent most of the night in prayer. In answer to our bequest, God made known to me the king's matter in a dream. Thus our lives and the lives of all the wise men were spared. Last night in answer to my earnest petition, God sent me light over the reported death of Cyrus. I am not at liberty to reveal all I know, but rest assured that God lives, and is in control of the affairs of earth which have a bearing on His eternal program. He will win against all op. I position and will bring His word to pass. For your own good you may need to walk in the dark for a while, but when the' hour strikes, light will come in dazzling splendor. There are some songs that can be learned only in the dark. The skies are never so bright as when they have been washed by a shower.

"All I can say at this time is that I am not shaken in the least over these distressing reports. What God has ordered written cannot fail. Be calm. Enter into no arguments. Faith is a living principle which enters into all of life's experience. It is that which connects you with the Infinite.

"I am as certain tonight that Cyrus will capture this city, and issue a decree permitting our return, as if the event had already happened. He is dead, you say. Well, suppose he is. What is death to the Author of life? Prophecy is more sure than death, more certain than sight. Faith in the revealed word of the most high God is the strongest thing on earth. It is stronger than arms, elements, laws, or money. All win who side with Him."

Faith is catching. Daniel's hopeful spirit brought cheer and courage to his doubting countrymen. His words fell like balm upon their wounded hearts. Their disappointment had been keen, but their dis-appointment would be His-appointment.

This is equally true today. A man or woman of faith can inspire faith in others. Those who have proved God, and know His word cannot fail, are the greatest people on earth. All else will ultimately perish. Faith enters into everything we do. We act because we believe. It would make a world of difference whether we believed or did not believe a call of "Fire" if we were in a ten-story hotel room. We would act as we believed. When a man prays for rain, he should buy rubbers.

To Mishael and Esther there was another matter which caused them great concern. Azariah, one of their closest friends, who held a high government position, had quite suddenly, as they believed, become infatuated with a Babylonian maiden. Iris was the daughter of a rich Babylonian merchant. He was a great sportsman. The games absorbed most of his attention.

Iris partook largely of her father's spirit. She was gay, progressive, but withal accomplished. On frequent visits to the state offices with her father, -- for since her mother's death she had been his daily companion, -- she was constantly brought into contact with this noble Jew, who was a member of the kingly house of Judah.

Thoughts have tongues that are not made of muscle, and their frequent meetings brought mutual regard. Iris one day asked her father to invite the handsome officer to their home. The invitation he accepted. Acquaintance ripened into friend. ship, and, from his conversation with them, Mishael and Esther feared that friendship was fast ripening into love.

That Azariah should marry a Babylonian seemed to them quite improper. It was against their Jewish religion. To them Iris was a pagan, a worshipper of Bel. They did not deny that she was beautiful, accomplished, that her father was I wealthy beyond counting, but they could see only failure ahead for their close friend were he to fall a captive to her fascinating charms. They feared the effect of such a union on the moral character, feeling that sooner or later it would wean Azariah away from his allegiance to God.

But how to deal with the matter puzzled them. His office was higher than Mishael's, and he was a man of very decided character. He stood erect, and when he spoke, he spoke with I authority. Because he was physically perfect, Iris endeavored to enlist his interest in the coming games. These became more and more the subject of his conversation. All the so-called great and rich and powerful, politically or otherwise, made this season of the year one of great pomp and ceremony. Babylon had her games before Greece was born.

Finally Iris succeeded in getting Azariah to begin training for the races. Secretly, unknown to any of his Jewish friends, he daily took a run upon the broad fields belonging to her father. Always abstemious in habits, he believed he could win. At last his whole heart was given to it. That something new had taken him captive was very evident to Mishael and Esther.

THE lower section of Media was governed by Prince Harpagus. He owned or controlled the most of the wealth ii the territory he governed. Hundreds of servants and slave did his bidding. Under Astyages he was a feudal lord over very large area. He also commanded the left wing of the king's army, about one-third of the soldiers of Media being subject to his orders.

His castle in the wooded hills not far from the capital, was a model of architecture, and was furnished but little less lavishly than the king's palace. Gardeners made his palace grounds a vast beautiful park. Around his home site was a high wall. Rock gardens, sunken flower beds, a fish pool, an open bathing tank of white marble, and a stone fountain, all in a setting of trees, shrubs, and lawn, made his yard a showplace of wide acclaim.

Harpagus was known as a wise and shrewd counselor. He was kind in temperament, and while a trifle haughty at times, was a man adored by his family. His wife was fair and comely. She ha1 borne him first a daughter and then a son.

Of his family, Harpagus was justly proud. There was sweeter maiden to be found than the daughter of Harpagus. Far beyond his dominions, she was famed for her excellence and beauty. She was her father's idol, and a close tie boun4 them together. His son, although many years younger, gave great promise of growing into a noble youth. Theirs was the type of household of which the servants were not afraid. They served willingly, and happiness and prosperity reigned.

It was to this castle gate that the trusted messenger of Astyages brought the infant Cyrus. He had orders from the king to deliver the parcel he carried into no other hands but those of the prince himself. Written instructions repeated the former command of the king to Harpagus. The babe was to be put to death and a sealed statement to that effect wasto be forwarded back to Ecbatana.

At the moment Harpagus received the small bundle of cloth which contained the son of Mandane, his wife came into the reception room. Unwrapping the roll of embroidered silk, the boy Cyrus lay before them. He had been asleep, but now his big black eyes glistened with tears. The mother-heart of this noble lady was touched with the striking, tearful countenance of the little stranger.

"Whose child is this, brought to us by the king's messenger?" she exclaimed. "As perfect a man-child as I ever saw. My lord, what means this circumstance?"

"Worthy lady, you are always appearing at the wrong time. If you must know, this is Prince Cyrus, the grandson of our exalted king, Mandane's child."

"I fail to understand. Did we not but recently attend his burial in Ecbatana? Has not the whole nation mourned for days over his death? And now you tell me this babe is Cyrus. What fable is this you are telling me? What do you mean?"

"My noble wife, what I speak is truth. I wish it were a fable. My heart fails me at what I am compelled to do."

Then he told her the whole story. Her very soul rebelled atthe thought of it.

"Suppose this little one were Attosa's child, what would it mean to you? I have wept much these last days for his young mother. It was awful, even when I had supposed he had died ofillness. Now I find him in my own home, and you, my noble lord, commanded to murder him in order to satisfy your king's ambition. How can you do it? Something terrible will happen if you do."

"Wife, you talk wisely and foolishly in the same breath. Something terrible will happen to all of us, if I do not fulfil the king's command. Is it better that Cyrus die, or that we die?"

"O ye gods! Why this tragedy? Only this morning Attosa remarked that she felt some evil spirit was near us. I know disaster will overtake us, if you soil your hands with the blood of Mandane's child."

Taking Cyrus in her arms, she nestled his head upon her heaving bosom and wept aloud.

At the sight of it, the heart of Harpagus was deeply moved.

"Wise lady, what advice, under the circumstances, have you to offer?"

Still holding Cyrus, she stood still for a moment and then spoke calmly:

"I refuse to be a party to this deed. I know the king's word is law. You are his tool. He is the really guilty one. But I could never rest peacefully again, did I know you, yourself, took this precious life. See how helpless and innocent he is. His birthright is higher than ours. If he must die, let him be killed by the hands of another than by my noble lord Harpagus."

"Your counsel is good. Shelter him secretly for a few days, and I will send to the distant hills for Mitradates, the chief shepherd. He will do my bidding. I will intrust the deed to him, and not tell him who the child may be."

To this they agreed. Cyrus wasfed and put to sleep in the room of this big-hearted mother. She would have saved his life were it within her power to do so. But the king demanded a sealed statement of his death. In the final analysis it seemed impossible to disobey this inhuman command. Nevertheless, she uttered many a prayer for both mother and son. She had a heart that could feel.

It is well nigh impossible to keep a twomonth's old baby a secret.He will make his presence known. The servants when they heard his cries asked no questions, but Attosa pressed hermother so forcefully that at last, rather willingly, the good lady gave in and took her daughter into her confidence.

Naturally, her young heart felt revengeful. But what could she do to save his life? She could only wait and hope for the intervention of some good spirit. Let it be known to all that the household of Harpagus would have saved the babe, had they seen any way to do so with any degree of safety to themselves. At night Attosa's pillow was wet with tears.

She was especially sad because of the fact that she wasbetrothed to Mandane's uncle, -- Mandane's mother's youngest brother, -- Darius by name. He was only a little older than Attosa, but was considered, next to King Astyages, the mostnoble Mede. He also commanded one-third of the army. The expected union of the two families was considered the greatest of all unions within the province. By this coming marriage, little Cyrus would be her distant nephew. How could she ever endure the knowledge of how he had died!

At first thought she decided to take the matter up at once with Darius. More mature thinking revealed the lack of wisdom in such a move. A letter would take several days to reach him, and knowing he was very loyal to Astyages, she feared complications for all if she moved in that direction.

Finally, after talking it over with her mother, she decided to let matters take their course. If Cyrus was doomed by the king to die, they saw no way to interfere. In her next letter to Darius,she mentioned the fact that it grieved her much that Mandane's first-born should have had such an early death.

At this time Darius was not aware of the fraud foisted upon the Median people. Less than a half-score of persons knew of it, and they, for the sake of their own safety, were bound to remain silent.

That the king should keep Cyrus carefully hidden away in his palace, all the while they were supposedly having his funeraland burying him, seemed very strange. One would judge he would have sent him earlier to Harpagusfor destruction. But the king himself feared greatly. He chose to see how the people reacted to the boy's death before he actually delivered Cyrus at the door of Harpagus' palace. And here he must now rest awaiting the arrival of the chief shepherd.

Attosa fairly worshipped him during these few days. One cannot forget people who forget themselves. Attosa was that way. Often she remarked to her mother, "O that the gods might intervene to save him from such a cruel fate." Little did she know then, that the God would watch over this child of prophecy. He had been first named by the Most High. He would disappoint the hosts of evil. In after years she learned all this. Nor did she know that this little black-eyed babe would one day be emperor of the world and her own brother-in-law. But we must not get aheadof our story.

During the days the life of young Cyrus hung in the balance, another babe was born infar away Babylon, who waslikewise destined to become a great man. To the happy home of Mishael and Esther came a son, Ezra Ben Israel.

His childhood days were filled with hardships, but his faithful parents taught him the religion of his fathers, and in later yearshe became a renowned scribe in the law of Moses, a teacher and leader of his people.

He it is who records for us in his Old Testament book the decreeof Cyrus. Ezra became, as we shall see, a mighty man of faith, a friend of the king, and a reformer among his own countrymen.

Of course, his mother Esther expected him to become a greatman. She put her very best into his training. Probably in the records of the great Judge, his mother may get a larger credit than Ezra himself. Many a man owes all he is to a faithful mother or wife. Too often after success comes to him, they are not seen. How often a proud ocean liner, as she pulls up to wharf,is admired by all, while the small tug alongside,which at that moment is supplying all the power and direction, is never noticed.

Upon the death of Nebuchadnezzar, the city of Babylon went into mourning for a season, and then conditions changed for the Jews. The king who followed wasnot inclined to be friendly toward these captives. Most of them, probably all, he removed from their positions in the government. Determined to exalt the gods of Babylon, he hated all who kept alive a knowledge of the true God.The great enemy of right was determined to obliterate the good influence of Nebuchadnezzar. He succeeded, but the kingdom of Babylon fell from her golden position, and later, under the short reign of Belshazzar, it was overthrown and passed into history.

As a consequence of the change in kings, there was mourning in every Jewish household. No longer did Daniel and his friendsoccupy high offices of state. The Hebrews were first ignored, and then made the objects of scoffs and ridicule. For a time those who were wealthy were able to stem the tide, but ere long, they also were brought under the Babylonian curse.

With a great longingthe loyal Jews waited for Cyrus,but so far as all but two knew, he was dead. It surely appeared as though God had forsaken them. Perhaps it was a divine provision to keep them separate from their pagan neighbors. Popularity, peaceful times, wealth, had dampened their worshipful ardor. They had grown content to abide in Babylon, to belike the Chaldeans. They forgot their heaven-appointed mission: to preserve upon earth a knowledge of God.

The attitude of Nabonidus toward the Jews did not change the feeling Iris and her father had for Azariah. He had already endeared himself to them, and since he had trained for the coming games, they were determined to see that he was placed, and they felt confident that he would win.

They had some reasons other than personalaffection for believing that he would win. Their confidence was based upon what they had seen him do. Physically, there was not his superior anywhere in Babylon. Years previous to this, at the time he had been brought a captive into the city, he being of the royal line, was chosen with a few others to enter the Babylonianschool. They were especially favored in this school, by being granted food and wine from the king's table. This food the Hebrew students declined to use for two reasons. It had first been offered to idols, and from a dietetic point of view, such rich food was not the best for either physical, mental, or moral strength. After being tested ten days on a simple diet of their own choosing, with only water as a drink, their desire to abstain from the king's food and wine was granted them. Atthe end of their three years in school, King Nebuchadnezzar found them ten times wiser than all the other students in training. They were graduated with pure minds and strong bodies. Living always from principle, in harmony with the laws of health, Azariahpossessed great endurance, a splendid nervous system, and good judgment.

As oppression of the Jews became more marked, he felt more decidedly that he would, if at all possible, run in the long endurance race during the royal games. On account of the death of Nebuchadnezzar, which ushered in a season of mourning, these games had been put off for a long time, but now active interest was