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 again taking possession of the populace. Azariah felt that the reputation of his people and the principles for which he stood were at stake. For this added reason, he was determined not to be hindered by his friends, who all knew at this time that he was interested in the games.

Many were terribly worried over his association with Iris and her father. They did not understand his motives. They were inclined to think it was merely pride of self, or perhaps it was to obtain some slight revenge on the king for the loss of his position, which moved him to run. Some were more concerned over his friendship with pagans, as they termed them, than they were over his competing in the games. Yet, as the time for the races drew near, every Jew held a secret hope that Azariah would win.

Weekly meetings were held at Rabbi Hermon's house. His home became headquarters for the loyal Jews. The sudden turn of events under the new king, the hope that a Cyrus would soon appear, plans for their return to Jerusalem, a desire to unify all the Hebrews, the worship of Jehovah, and kindred themes, were discussed again and again. Daniel, although no longer in government position, still held the reverent respect of his fellow Jews. He continued to speak words of cheer, and he always admonished them never to give up hope. Though degraded from his office, he knew that it would be but temporary; that the day would come when he would be recalled to a position of leadership. The wheel of life goes around. Sometimes one is on the bottom, sometimes on top. Daniel believed that even in his old age, he would have a large work to do for God, the nation, and his own race.

Daniel depended fully upon God. He felt that no one could go forward unless he continually fell back upon Heaven. As a diamond loses none of its value by being in the dark, so he lost none of his priceless strength of character by being set aside for a time. With him it was out of the rush of life into the hush of prayer. The secret of being a saint is being a saint in secret.

Among the Chaldeans, three things became the subject of general conversation: their increasing dislike of the Jews, the superiority of the gods of Babylon, and the coming games. These were discussed until they became more or less blended into one theme. It was the age-old struggle of wrong against right, false against true, darkness against light. As a poet of a generation ago so finely put it:

"Right forever on the scaffold,
Wrong forever on the throne;
But that scaffold sways the future,
And behind the dim unknown
Standeth God within the shadow,
Keeping watch above His own."

Esther, arising from her bed after the birth of Ezra, heard many rumors of Azariah and Iris. One morning she turned to Mishael, saying,

"Husband, can you not do something to stop Azariah in his mad infatuation for this gentile girl? Cannot you do something to persuade him to give up running in the races?"

"My dear wife, you know Azariah is a very strong-headed man. I believe he desires to do right as much as you and I. He does not see all things as we do. I have his promise that he will never marry Iris unless she accepts the Jewish religion. As for the races, he feels duty bound to uphold the honor of his people, who are now so downtrodden. He desires to prove that Heaven's blessing is still for those who live in harmony with the laws of life. For myself, I cannot be conscience for him. I pray constantly that he may always be true to the One who saved him out of the hot furnace. If I mistake not, other fiery furnaces await some of us in the not far distant future. After all is said, there is nothing like persecution to purify the heart."

Nabonidus did not possess the strong character of his father Nebuchadnezzar. He was easily influenced by his youthful counselors. He lacked in judgment and was as changeable as the wind in autumn. He accomplished little. Fortunate, indeed, for the Jews that he was so variable a character, but in almost everything he attempted to do, he seemed to be controlled by some evil spirit.

THREE days' journey from Ecbatana, up in the high hill I lands, lived Mitradates, the chief shepherd. It was about the same distance from the castle of Harpagus. While he had direct charge of all the king's sheep, as the territory was within that governed by Harpagus, the prince felt he was indirectly subject to his orders.

But the shepherd had never before been called to go immediately to the palace of Harpagus, and during the three days of his journey thither, the mysterious message deepened his bewilderment.

He had left his wife at an inconvenient time, and on her account he was anxious to return as quickly as possible. He hastened, too, in obedience to the command he had received from the prince. His trusty under-shepherds would have a care during his absence.

Admitted to the presence of Harpagus, he did not need to wait long, to learn the reason for his coming. Without any explanation, the prince gave him the dark-eyed babe and said,

"Take this infant back to the high hills and expose him upon the mountains for the wolves to devour. Do not ask me any questions and keep the matter a close secret. As soon as the child is dead, send me a sealed statement by the hand of your most trusted helper. That is all. You may depart at once. My kind wishes to your family."

Mitradates was stunned. But he dared not make reply. He did as he was commanded and left at once for his home. He had not the faintest idea who the babe was. He was well bundled and not a heavy load to carry. He covered the child's head when he chanced to meet any travelers. When the child cried, the shepherd stilled him as quickly as possible.

Before the three days' journey was over, he had grown very accustomed to looking after his small charge. At first, he thought it useless to feed a child who was so soon to be given to the wolves, but he found the babe cried less if well fed, so he gave him all the milk he wanted. At nightfall, be stopped at country inns, and as not a few knew the chief shepherd, he found it very difficult to avoid conversation and the questions of some. But he attended strictly to his mission and said nothing.

Varied and numerous thoughts passed through his own mind: who could the babe be; why did Harpagus place this task upon him; why did he need to bring the child up to the high hills to kill him; why should the matter concern Harpagus at all?

None of these questions could he answer. But he had been trained to obey the orders of his superiors, and that he would do. However, the smiles and tears of baby Cyrus touched his father's heart. Surely, he felt, he must be a father by now! This was another question which occupied his mind. He dreaded being a party to taking such a sweet, innocent life. It was with a heavy heart that he entered his humble home, the evening of the third day of his return journey.

Because of these two reasons, anxiety registered itself upon his countenance. But his wife was up and met him at the door. She noticed his sad expression. Much had she worried over what the urgent message from Harpagus could mean. Her eyes were red with weeping, but she smiled faintly as her husband entered, carrying a large bundle.

"My lord, why is your countenance so sad? What did Harpagus require? What do you carry in that parcel? I never saw you so depressed." She talked on, giving him no time to answer.

"Harpagus gave me a task I would fain decline to perform, yet I dare not refuse to obey his orders. When I arrived at his palace, he gave me this babe with the command that I expose him upon the mountains for the wolves to devour. I know not whose the child is, but he is a perfect child. During these three days, he has endeared himself to my heart. Why, my wife, are your eyes so red from weeping? Have you sad news for me?"

"Sad news, indeed, but the gods are merciful. The night you went away I gave birth to your first-born. He lived but four days. In yonder room he lies awaiting your return. You tell me you do not know the parents of this child? If you will harken to me, my broken spirit may be somewhat revived. Expose your own son for the wolves to devour. Send Harpagus word that the child he gave you is dead. We will rear this one in place of our own. None will ever be the wiser. Thus you may save your hands from shedding innocent blood, and this boy will gladden our mountain home. All the shepherds knew I was near to delivery. None of them know my own child is dead. Happily none know you have brought this child with you."

"Harpagus commanded I keep the matter very secret, and that I have done. I see wisdom in your counsel. I will put my own dead child on the mountain top this night and tomorrow I will send Harpagus word that the child he gave me has been devoured by wolves."

This is the story of how Cyrus was saved as related by some of the earth's oldest historians. True it is, that sometimes fact is stranger than fiction!

Harpagus accepted the statement that Cyrus was dead, and his sealed avowal was forthwith forwarded to King Astyages. He had worried because of the long delay, and the sealed letter contained grateful news He had no rest until he knew the object of his dreams was beyond doing him harm. Then he congratulated himself constantly on how cleverly he had carried out his plans.

The queen-mother was somewhat disturbed at every remembrance of her betrayal of trust, but she silenced her conscience with the thought that she had been helpless to do otherwise. But her supposed reconciliation with her husband, the king, was not as perfect or as lasting as she had expected it to be. A few days after the reported death of Cyrus, the young wife of Astyages bore him a son. This raised her sphere of influence to greater heights.

Throughout Media, the death of Cyrus was forgotten in the grand celebration over the birth of an heir. It was heard even over in Persia. The Highpriest, himself, named him Exis. From that moment, the king was all adoration for his second wife. You do not need to Start a lawsuit to collect the wages of wrongs done to others. The queen-mother reaped only bitterness of soul as the result of her proving untrue to Mandane. Not long afterward she died, which for her was indeed fortunate. She could never have looked upon the face of her only child with the knowledge of such a black deed in her heart.

In the writings of Moses is a very true statement: "Be sure your sin will find you out." "As a man soweth, so shall he also reap," was written by a later Jewish writer. Both were to be fulfilled in the experience of Astyages. Prince Exis, for whom he hoped so much, was never to rule the Medes. The king's day of punishment was delayed, but it came at last in double measure.

From the breasts of the chief shepherd's wife, young Cyrus was daily drawing nourishment which enabled him to grow rapidly. He was a child of destiny. His foster parents named him Darce, and so he was called by all his acquaintances. The shepherd and his wife never divulged to any one the fact that he was not their son. To all he was spoken of as the chief shepherd's son, Darce. (Here we must leave him for a period often years while he grows up into a noble youth.)

For ten years the prophesied deliverer of the captives in Babylon was hidden from the sight of man in the humble mountain home of a shepherd. These ten years were freighted with much sorrow, not only for the Jews in Babylon, but, as previously mentioned, for Mandane in Persia.

A very beautiful wedding was celebrated in the palace of Harpagus. The mighty Prince Darius came for his lovely Attosa. Cambyses and Mandane received invitations, but were too pained over the death of their son to care to attend. Mandane wrote Attosa a true sisterly letter of welcome into the family. By this marriage they became kinsmen. The future proved this union to be one of great blessing to Cyrus.

Attosa was greatly missed from the home of Harpagus. Only the young son remained to cheer their hearts. But the next year another daughter joined the family circle. She was named Cassandane, but every one called her Dana for short, and that is the name she will be known by in this narrative. Little Dana received a royal welcome into the home where Attosa had reigned and gone. She, too, grew up to be her father's pet. They were pals together. People said she was even better looking than her elder sister. But now the little curly head dreamed naught of the greatness the future held in store for her. Her name should be inscribed among the greatest of earth's women.

IN THE meantime, in Babylon, affairs had gone from bad .L to worse for the Jews. Their accusers seemed not to be content that they had deprived the Hebrews of their government positions. Knowing that many, by their thrift and ability, bad grown immensely rich, those with influence to go further were moved by jealousy. They persuaded the king that it was not good for the kingdom to have the Jews so prosperous. They proposed to wage against them an economic boycott. To see a Jew suffer was the delight of their Babylonian enemies. Two things provoked their enmity, hatred of the God of the Jews, and envy.

Racial persecution is bad, but religious persecution is worse. Among the Chaldeans the same spirit existed, but it did not lead to an order for their total destruction, as was m2nifested a few years later, when Prince Hanian came to the king and said:

"There is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed among the people in all the provinces of thy kingdom; and their laws are diverse from all people; neither keep they the king's laws; therefore it is not for the king's profit to suffer them.

"If it please the king, let it be written that they be destroyed; and I will pay ten thousand talents of silver into the bands of those who have the charge of the business to bring it into the king's treasuries."

At the time Haman plotted the total destruction of the Hebrews, God worked through Queen Esther, a Jewess, for their deliverance, -- a wonderful story with which every one is familiar.

This same spirit of religious intolerance crept out again, as we shall see later, against Daniel, when, because of his loyal worship of the true God, he was thrown into the den of lions.

Certain customs of the Jews caused the Babylonians to bate them and to persecute them for worshipping the one and only God. The Babylonians hated to see this people, in obedience to His command, cease their labor every Friday evening at the setting of the sun and not resume it again until the sun had gone down on Saturday. Many of their other God-given customs were very different from those of the pagan inhabitants of Babylon. Many in official positions remembered still the great deliverance at the fiery furnace, and their king, Nebuchadnezzar, eating grass with the beasts of the field. They refused to concede the superiority of the God of Israel. They also recalled the very careful way the Jewish officials, especially Daniel, had conducted the affairs of state. No bribes, no squeeze, no enriching themselves at the expense of the state revenue, and for this the Babylonians hated the race.

During his term of office under Nebuchadnezzar, Daniel had degraded and punished many native officials because of their graft and crookedness. Under Nabonidus, these men by large gifts purchased back their positions, and it was largely through the influence of this class that the boycott was instituted against the wealthy sons of Abraham-

Upon the merest pretext, many had their property confiscated. Others had their homes stoned by mobs. They received no justice in the courts. The fact that a man was a Jew was sufficient reason for his losing his case before the law. They were not made slaves, as were their forefathers in Egypt, but they groaned under the ill-feeling and hatred manifested against them by their captors.

A weak head often sits upon a stiff neck, and so it was with King Nabonidus. He reigned a long time, and the Jews suffered most under him.

Another cause of their persecution was envy. The Babylonians could not endure to see the prosperity of their Jewish neighbors. Solomon was right when he said, "Jealousy is cruel as the grave." Envy looks upon merit, and, like sore eyes, cannot stand anything that is bright. The greatest enemies of those who can are those who can't. "Envy turns pale and sickens even if a friend prevail, withers at another's joy, and hates the excellence it cannot reach."

Spies were directed to watch the Jewish leaders, and a secret meeting was discovered being held in Rabbi Hermon's house. No Chaldean was admitted, suspicion was aroused, and soldiers arrested the Rabbi's son, Hananiah. When investigation proved that the gathering was not of a political nature, he was released, but out of the experience came an order prohibiting all meetings in private homes.

Most of the Hebrews lived in a section of the city by themselves, but there were a few of the most prosperous who had fine residences in other parts of the city. Nabonidus issued an order that all Jews must reside in the section of the city assigned to them. This move caused great loss to many. More and more their freedom was being curtailed. Many citizens' of the capital would neither buy nor sell to a Jew. For this reason, some of the merchants left the city and resided in smaller places.

We must all admit that for them the future looked dark and hopeless. These days it took living faith to believe in a promised deliverer, who was long since reported dead. But Daniel, Rabbi Hermon, and others continued to talk courage in the face of increasing calamity. The darkest hour is that just before the dawn, they were heard to say. The word of the Most High must be fulfilled. Patience is a pearl oft produced by petty irritations. The human heart cannot be whole until it is broken. Care becomes its own cure when it drives us to prayer. To our prayers Cod gives answers, but in His love, makes ways and times His own. Their leaders wisely taught the people not to worry about the future, but to be optimistic. Nature hates to disappoint the man who is always looking for the worst to happen. We only live a day at a time.

Their days were not all spent in sorrow. During these perplexing times, when they lived in constant expectation of some new trial, there were bright hours of pleasure. A grand wedding was solemnized at the palatial home of Rabbi Herinon. His son Hananiah was united in marriage with the sister of Azariah. For seven days there was feasting and gladness. Eighteen months later there was born to this union a son, whom the old Rabbi named Nehemiah.

This babe was also destined to become a good and noted man. History reveals him in different roles, -- the king's cupbearer, governor of Judah, a great reformer, a fearless, trustful, prayerful servant of the supreme Ruler. Rabbi Hermon might well feel proud of his two grandchildren.

Many years before, the prophet Isaiah, while speaking with King Hezekiah of Judah, had said that because of the spiritual apostasy of the later kings of Judah, the Jews would be carried away to Babylon, and that some of the royal children would be made eunuchs in that city. Daniel was a eunuch, and for this reason he never married. His faith, his prayers, his service, will one day bring him a reward better than that of sons and daughters.

Oppressed on every side, there were a few in Babylon who were deeply anxious over whether the Jews would be excluded also from the royal games. Azariah continued to visit the home of Iris. They were good friends in spite of the reaction which ad developed against his people. But it was not necessary to very observing to see the evident growing indifference manifested on the part of her father. Iris asked her friend to give no serious thought to this seeming coldness. She knew the wealthy merchant admired him, but the decrees of the king were having their effect.

Azariah was soon to meet one of the greatest tests of his life.

Character is the only thing about a h man being that is fireproof, and the way one meets certain tests along life's pathway develops and reveals the character.

Some people live by principle, always having a regard for what is right. Others act like a Saint when they know some one is watching them, and then act like themselves when they think they are alone.

Azariah was that type of man who would do what he believed was right regardless of what the consequences might be. This trait was manifested when, against the king's command, he stood with a fiery furnace awaiting him. He would do what he believed the God he served desired him to do and then leave the results with Him. If he knew his Master wanted him to jump through a stone wall, he'd jump at it, and leave the getting through with the One who commanded him to jump. His was a simple, child-like faith. He worked on the principle that blind obedience always leads to blessed vision. He knew that life is a check signed in blank, but its worth depends 6n how we fill it out. True character never shields itself behind the majority, and neither would Azariah.

But a test of perhaps greater magnitude than the king's command awaited him, -- one which doubtless took even more courage and character to choose for the right. It is often more difficult for a man to decide for truth when there are only two, and one of them a woman, than it is to choose when a throng is watching him.

Adam professed a greater love for Eve than he did for God, when, knowing she must die, he said, "I'll eat and die with you; I cannot live without you." But a moment later he was hiding behind Eve and blaming her for the whole bad business. So it usually develops when one places another human being before his duty to his Heavenly Father.

Woman rise higher and fall lower than man. It is hers to lead upward or downward. A pure, loving, spiritual, accomplished, sincere, gentle woman, is the greatest blessing ever given to man; and an impure, shiftless, nagging, lazy, deceitful woman is his greatest curse.

During the months they had been dose friends, Azariah sensed a growing affection for Iris. At first she had taken the initiative, but mutual regard had developed into a real fondness for the society of the other. He needed not the warning of his best friends to tell him he was playing with fire. A week before the opening of the royal games, a crisis came in their experience.

"Azariah, I have something I must say to you this night. Through father's influence you have been listed as one of the contestants in the endurance race. Your name in the lists is Abednego, and if on that day you wear a Babylonian costume, no one will know that you are a Jew. With the present illfeeling against your race, you would never stand a show of winning, if the other contestants found out that you were a Jew. The attending crowd would order you out of the race. For private reasons, father is very desirous that you shall win I am well enough acquainted with you, that I am fearful lest you will not conform to certain rules of our games."

"To what rules do you have reference, Iris?"

"Do you not know that every contestant, before the race begins, must make a small offering to our national deity? You, too, will be required to place a little incense upon the altar of Bel. For my sake, you will do this, won't you, Azariah?"

"My dear Iris, you alarm me. This, you very well know, I could never do. How could I dare seek the assistance of the true Cod, if I also implored the help of a gilt god, and worshipped at a false shrine?"

"But, Azariah, you need not make it a heart service. I know you do not believe as we do. Just for that day pretend to worship with us. We shall gain much if you will, all of us."

"Iris, my pretense would lead that host of men and women from all climes to believe I, too, was a worshipper of Bel. If I should win they would give the glory to Bel. I could never do it. I adore your friendship, I respect your worthy father, and I am not unmindful of all you have done for me, but I must say once and for all, that, gain or lose, I will not offer incense to a pagan deity."

"Then, Azariah, you must give up the idea of running. Father refuses to support you. He will not be humiliated before the king of Babylon and all his people. Unless you give me an affirmative answer, he will have your name taken off the lists."

"Iris, my answer now and forever must be negative. I may die a poor man, without position, or worldly honor, or money, but I will not deny my principles, and for any of these, sin against my conscience."

"Azariah, I am pained that for me you will not do a mere trifle like this. I know now that you do not love me. I perceive that I am nothing in your eyes. I do not wish to see you again. Farewell."

Surprised, yet revealing it not, he made a slight bow, then instantly raising his head a little higher, he left her home and returned to his lodging. He knew that Iris would later regret her hasty words and action. That she had been forced to this position by her father, he was very certain. He pitied her more than anything else, but her words for the moment were forgotten. He had other, and to his mind, more important matters to attend to at once.

He went directly to the home of a Jewish money-lender, Abram, and was fortunate to find him in his shop with no customers about. Abram was probably the wealthiest Jew in Babylon. Necessity had made him shrewd, cautious, and experienced.

"I am Azariah, named Abednego by King Nebuchadnezzar. Formerly I was chief secretary to the treasurer of the kingdom. May I have a few moments with you for private counsel?"

"I have heard of you, Azariah. Come into my room, and welcome. What disturbs my fellow Israelite?"

"My dear Abram, the royal games begin next week. For months I have trained under the encouragement and support of Meizar for the big race of the last day. Only now, because I am a Jew and refuse to offer incense on the altar of Bel, he has had my name scratched from the lists. Abram, I know I can win. So does Meizar, but he is fearful of being humiliated because I am a Jew. I want you to give me your aid and support. Co to the comptroller of the games and enter my name as Azariah the Jew. You know the power and influence of wealth even in the hands of the despised Jew. Will you do this for me and the honor of our people?"

"I fear even if I were willing, that I would be attempting the impossible. With the present tension, I doubt very much if the comptroller would list a Jew in any race, certainly not in the most important of all."

"I have considered that also. Abram, there is one way you can succeed and that you know. Money speaks a loud language. Do it, Abram. Please! I promise you I will not fail you."

"Azariah, I do understand. For the glory of Israel, I will make the attempt."

"Thank you. Kindly let me know as soon as you have definite word. I shall be waiting that word anxiously."

It was Azarjah's idea that old Abram use some of his hoarded wealth and purchase a place for him in the race. From his contact with official Babylon, while closely associated with the treasury, he knew how money could work wonders. But Abram bad another plan in his mind as he entered the office of the royal comptroller.

"So you are Abram, the Hebrew money-lender? I have long heard of you. What can I do for you?"

"Belthazzar, I wish to enter a Jew in the endurance race next week."

"What, a Jew! By the gods, no. I have just scratched a Jew by the name of Abednego off the lists this morning. Public sentiment at this moment would not permit a Jew to run in that race."

"But you have authority to enter any runner in the world, if you would, haven't you? There is no law debarring a Jew from the royal games, is there?"

"No, but it takes years of special training in order to qualify one to run in that race. No Jew could ever hope to win. You would only waste your thousand coins of entrance money. I am opposed to it. The public would not appreciate my listing a Jew."

"Belthazzar, the royal games are open to all contestants from any of the one hundred twenty provinces. I know there are but few who qualify for the long race, few who care to attempt it before the eyes of the whole world. You handle the odds on the races, don't you. I have such confidence in Azariah, that I will not only pay my thousand coins as entrance money, but I will wager with you a thousand talents of silver that he will win the laurel crown."

"Taken, Abram. The thousand talents are as good as mine. I am not to be held responsible for any serious reaction from the other contestants, but I will promise you a fair start."

Abram returned home happy in the thought that Azariah, a Jew, was placed to run in the endurance on the last day of the royal games. Never would he have ventured a thousand talents, had he not heard the report of Azariah's months of training, and that he had once been encouraged by Meizar, the father of iris.

It was the last afternoon of the Babylonian contests. Throngs of people from all lands filled the city. Such a cosmopolitan gathering it would he difficult to find anywhere else or at any other season.

Near the colossal temple of Belus was the Babylonian arnphitheater. It was crowded with a sport-frenzied, wine-merry audience. All were eagerly waiting for the grand climax of the games, the endurance race. When it would be over, most of them would return to their homes in distant cities.

Over the judges' stand was the High or Royal Box, in which sat the king and his chief nobles. Ladies of rank were there in their section. Directly below them sat the comptroller and many of the richest men of the world. Among them much money had changed hands during the week. On the very outside bench sat Abram, the Jewish money-lender.

At various places in the great stadium, in order that all might see clearly, a few minutes before the beginning of the race, the names and nationality of the contestants were posted in large characters. They were eight in number and represented the very finest in the ancient athletic class. Very naturally, the favorite was the Babylonian contestant, Nazzar. He was of the royal Chaldean line. But the runners from Egypt, Media, Lydia, Assyria, Persia, and Phoenicia, had each his many admirers. Amid the vast concourse were a sprinkling of Jews, who hoped for their representative.

As each contestant entered the huge bowl, he was announced to the waiting multitudes, and each was heralded with popular acclaim -- all, except the Jew. Not a word was uttered, no welcome was extended to Azariah. The Jews in the crowd dared not, and the others disdained him. He did not covet or expect the applause of any. Walking directly by the golden altar where the others had stopped to offer incense, he stood proudly erect until all were directed to take their position on the starting line.

Quite to his surprise, Azariah discovered he was placed next to Nazzar the Babylonian, whom he recognized as an officer once degraded by Daniel for malpractice, when the Hebrews were in positions of authority. Nazzar gave him a scornful look and turned his head.

As the crowd shouted for them to be off, Azariah lifted his head to the comptroller's box above them, and thought he discerned two pair of eyes fastened upon him. They were those of Meizar and Iris. Knowing his name had been dropped the week before, they did not expect to see him there. They could not recover from the astonishment they felt when they read his name at the end of the list. They, like many others, did not suppose that a Jew could possibly secure a place in the most noted race of the games, and were at a loss to know how it had been arranged. Probably they were the only Chaldeans who knew that Azariah and Abednego were the same. Inwardly they were glad that he was running. A moment later many people received a great surprise when the merchant Melzar walked over to the comptroller's box and placed his money, not on Nazzar the Babylonian, but on Azariah the Jew.

But one thought filled the mind of Azariah. He would win for the honor of his downtrodden people. He believed that the principles of healthful living, which had governed his life, would bring him certain results. The thought never occurred to him, that should he win, he might make the situation even more difficult for himself and others.

As the signal dropped, the eight men were off for ten rounds of the mile-and-one-half track. They had just gathered speed, when Nazzar thrust out his foot suddenly in front of Azariah and the Jew stumbled and fell upon his face in the dust and fine pebbles of the course. His hands were torn and blackened as he tried to protect his face. Before he could regain his feet again, the seven were thirty yards ahead of him and running side by side.

As they saw the Jew fall, the stands roared their approval. Azariah shook the dust from his body, dinched his lists and followed on. After the uproar had subsided, old Abram, stroking his beard gently, arose in the comptroller's box, and shouted, "A thousand talents to wager on the Jew." Three Babylonian merchants went over to the comptroller and accepted his wager.

For the first six rounds Azariah purposely lagged behind the few paces he had lost. Some wondered if he would be able to regain them. It was evident that the Egyptian and the Phoenician were both tiring, for they, too, were falling back. The next round took them out of the race.

As they passed the royal box at the beginning of the eighth round, Azariah, with a burst of speed, again took his position alongside Nazzar and the five who were running side by side. The ease with which he had done so, caused much concern among those who held old Abram's wagers.

Seeing his unlabored movements and peaceful face, Melzar could sit still no longer. Partly influenced by just respect for the Jew, and partly prompted by his mad desire to obtain more wealth, he arose and called out loudly, "Five thousand talents on the Jew." He shouted again and again, but no one took his wager. None accepted his money. The beginning of the tenth and last round, found the Median and the Assyrian retiring, but the Persian, Lydian, Babylonian and Jew sped onward.

Half way round it seemed that all four would cross the line together. The crowd was tense and nervous. Well they knew that in a moment would come the final burst of speed which would tell for victory or defeat. Above the tumult could be heard the cry, "Nazzar! Nazzar!" But Nazzar himself knew he could never win. His reserve strength was fast failing. One of the three others would win the crown. Would it be the object of his special hatred, the one he had tripped? As they all speeded up for the home stretch, he fell back and his supporters knew that he was beaten. The visitors from far away Lydia and Persia called encouragingly to their hero. No one dared as yet to shout for the Jew.

A dark frown overshadowed the face of King Nabonidus as the Persian, Lydian, and Jew came flying down the last quar. ter. Side by side they raced until they were within two hundred yards of the goal line. Azariah glanced up at the comptroller's box where sat old Abram, Melzar, and Iris. All saw him raise his hand toward heaven and as he did so he purposely fell back a few feet. Nearly all thought him out of the race. Loud shouts and cheers arose for the Lydian and Persian. Abram continued to stroke his beard. Iris felt strangely sad. At the precise moment, Azariah, calling on his splendid reserve, bowed his form a moment, and with a triumphant spurt, which almost left the crowd breathless, he crossed the goal line five yards in the lead. The race was over, won by the Jew.

The amphitheater rang with shouts. Those from abroad gave applause as the judges placed the wreath on the head of Azariah. Those from Babylon shouted curses. Old Abram took his money and quietly departed. A strange light now burned in the eyes of Iris. She wondered if the gods cared very much for the burning incense. The heart of every Hebrew beat with pride. They had conquered. But the battle was not over -- only begun.

CYRUS, known to every one as Darce, the chief shepherd's son, was now ten years of age. He had thus far lived the rugged life of the hills. Because he was strong and large for his age, he was already beginning to be of considerable help to the shepherds. Every one liked him. He enjoyed perfect health and was a well trained lad. He held his foster parents, the only ones he knew, in high regard.

Even at this tender age he had learned how to attack the wolves and the other wild animals which would prey upon the king's flock. Like every other peasant youth, he was taught great respect for Astyages the king. A large number of soldiers were in the Median army, and every youth looked forward to the time when he would be one of the defenders of Media.

The chief shepherd received more money than the ordinary servant; therefore, he was able to secure a tutor for his son. This advanced Darce above the other boys. Cream will always come to the top even in a common basin, and "blood will tell." There was something about this boy very different from the sons of the other shepherds. Others often remarked that he looked more like a prince than a peasant's son. The chief shepherd was highly pleased when his son was complimented.

Darce wore only the coarse clothing of the mountain folk, but his noble carriage, his manly bearing, his fine features, all testified to his princely origin. He was far superior to the average peasant boy, who was little more than a loud noise with a lot of dirt on it. Although none were aware of his parentage, his fellow playmates naturally accepted him as their leader. Even boys older than Darce willingly followed his orders.

During his tenth year an incident occurred which changed the whole future for our young hero.

Prince Exis, the king of Media's son by his second wife, had never been strong. He was frail and often ill. Because of this, his father Astyages was constantly filled with anxiety. He was given the best of care under the royal physicians, but at ten years of age he was small and not developed. His physicians ordered for him a long residence in the high hill country, and the king decided to send him to Mitradates, the chief shepherd.

With him went a letter instructing the shepherd to put forth special effort to give the young prince the care becoming his station. He was to give his tutor everything he required and to permit Exis the pleasure of playing daily with the peasant youth, that he might become strong in body. The chief shepherd felt very proud to have the care of the crown prince, Media's future king.

The mountain air and simple food did prove a blessing to Prince Exis, and he showed marked improvement. His tutor informed the king of this improvement, and everything was progressing satisfactorily until one day all the boys decided to play "King."

Among their number one was to be chosen king. He was to have absolute authority. All the others were to be his willing subjects. Some were soldiers, others servants, tradesmen, and officers of state.

With one accord, all the local youths shouted, "Darce shall be king." He very courteously declined; for, said he, "Boys, here is a real prince, the son of our king, who will one day be a real king. Ought not he to be king today?" But to this one and all cried out, "Darce is king; Darce is king."

Seeing it was the will of his companions, he finally accepted the position urged upon him. Each in turn took the oath to be a loyal subject. With the others, Exis took his oath, and to all appearances the new kingdom was to be a grand junior success.

But all did not run smoothly very long. Darce ordered the boys to water his sheep. All obeyed instantly save Exis. He sulked. Calling him, Darce asked, "How dare you refuse to obey your king? Have you no respect for your oath?"

When Exis stubbornly refused to do this menial task, Darce punished him as he supposed a king would do. To this all his fellow subjects agreed. Darce thrashed him soundly. When he refused the second time to obey, the whip was applied once more, and serious results might have followed had not his cries brought his tutor to his rescue.

Covered with black and blue spots and in places somewhat bruised, with his proud spirit wounded to an even greater degree, the prince was taken by his tutor, early the next morning, back to Ecbatana. Here the whole affair was reported to the king.

At the sight of his son's bruises, Astyages was perhaps justly wroth. How dare a peasant's son be so rude as to strike the crown prince? Exis presented the whole affair to all in a false light, and this made it appear to be even a greater insult than it was. The king vowed that the chief shepherd and his son should be punished. Soldiers were sent to bring them to the palace.

How little the weary captives in Babylon knew of what was passing behind the scene! After ten years of waiting they are about to receive word once more of the predicted deliverer, Cyrus the Persian.

Cambyses and Mandane had not forgotten they had once had a son. Their little daughter brought much comfort to their burdened hearts, but the princess was sad because no other offspring came to bless their union.

Harpagus had long since forgotten the death of Cyrus. His son was not quite thirteen years of age, and baby Dana was a girl of eight. Since the marriage of Attosa, Darius and Harpagus had become even doser friends. Both commanded about the same number of soldiers, but Harpagus was much the older in years. They frequently visited each other, and the royal hunt always found them side by side. Both were loyal to King Astyages, but an event was soon to happen which was to bring about a wide breach between Harpagus and the king.

Upon his return home, Prince Exis found a very sympathizing mother to listen to his youthful troubles. Since she bore the king no more sons, her whole life was wrapped up in this boy. She, above every one else in Ecbatana, deserves our sympathy. It was not her fault that she was the wife of King Astyages. She had a mother's feeling toward her son. Many were the tears she had shed over his weak physical condition. That he had been pampered too much she admitted. He was a spoiled child. We wish she might have escaped the heartaches which in the not far distant future came to her.

Exis pictured to his mother Darce striking him in anger. He said nothing about all the boys playing "King." He did not tell that he with the others had given his oath to be obedient. In the light in which he presented his trouble with Darce, it would seem that the son of the shepherd was wholly at fault, and that he was not justified in striking the prince. It was the mother's influence, more than the son's story, which caused the king to send for the chief shepherd and his boy. Afterward, he wished many times that he had not sent his soldiers to bring those two into his presence. A great surprise awaited him, one that he would fain have missed.

That morning the tutor and Prince Exis had left the abode of the chief shepherd in a fit of anger. Darce's father knew well it was a bad omen, and that they would ere long hear from the experience. He lightly reprimanded his son for striking the prince, yet in his full knowledge of all the facts, he felt that the boy was not greatly to be blamed. His thoughts reverted to the eve ten years before, when he had carried a baby home from the castle of Harpagus. Inwardly he was anxious and feared for the future. That the boy did not resemble him in appearance was evident to all. He had told a falsehood to Harpagus, and now he trembled lest he be compelled to admit the truth.

Darce's mother was even more anxious than her husband. Women have a sense that men do not have. Their intuition tells them very much. She felt in her very soul that something dire was about to fall upon them. Had she known that her Darce was none otherthan Cyrus, the king's grandson, the supposeddead child of Princess Mandane, she would have diedfrom sheer fright.

Accompanied by two stalwart soldiers, Mitradates and Darce began their three days' journey to the capital. The thoughts of father and son were widely different. Darce was not conscious that he had done anything wrong, and he held his head high as he walked beside his guard. He had nothing but worshipful respect for his monarch, and he could not see how any evil could befall either of them. But troubled, anxious thoughts filled the mind of Mitradates. He knew the king was capable of giving very cruel treatment. He feared he would be degraded from his position, perhaps also punished.

"Don't worry, father! I'll tell the king the truth, and I am certain he will pardon both of us." Thus this ten-year-old began to carry his father's burdens. His advice was good. More people worry themselves into their graves than work themselves there. Worry is the interest we pay on trouble before itis due. God sometimes says "Wait," but He never says "Worry." We should never borrow trouble for the interest is too high. Darce did not know that soon, very soon, he would be well able to repay his foster parents for all their love and care. Every child owes a debt to his parents which he car never fully repay.

The king heard of their arrival the evening of the sixth day from the time he had sent off his soldiers, but he said it was too late an hour to hear them then, and the case was laid over until the next morning. He sent word for Exis to be ready to hearwitness at ten o'clock.

Mitradates and Darce were guarded closely during the night. They were not put in chains, hut the eyes of their soldier guards were upon them constantly. The king's wrath had cooled some during the interim, but he still felt keenly the in• suit given his son. Darce slept soundly and was ready to appear beforehis ruler and judge the next morning.

That was a day never to be forgotten by all who were pres ent, particularly King Asytages, Exis, Mitradates, and Darce. Thatday was a day in which history was made.

Seated upon his gilded throne, with his son standing by his side, the king ordered the prisoners brought before him. Both came and knelt, bowing their heads to the stone pavement. It was the first time Darce had seen the king. He gladly bumped hishead on the stone before him, as all criminals were required to do. On either side of the throne were heavy Persian rugs of great value, but the small section where soldiers guarded those on trial was bare.

Exis had recovered from his beating, and during the week mostof his marks had disappeared, but there remained enough for evidence. Asking his son to lay aside his robe, theking pointed to the whip marks on the boy's legs, and in a very important tone of voice addressed the two who stood before him:

"Mitradates, you are called this day to undergo examination of the conduct of your son. Is it true your boy gave the crown prince a beating?"

"May the king and Exis live forever! It is true my boy inflicted those marks. He admits the charge laid against him."

"How dared the child of my servant presume to do such a preposterous deed? I should in justice take off his head without further explanation, but what have you to say for yourselves?"

All the while the king was intently watching the young prisoner before him. His threats only made Darce put his chin up a trifle higher. His attitude was surprising.

"Most exalted and just ruler! I will permit the lad to answer for himself. I was away with the sheep when the unfortunate experience occurred, and I feel terribly humiliated that my son should presume to do such a deed."
 

Dressed in the coarse garb of the shepherd folk, this boy of ten years proudly lifted his head until his eyes met those of his sovereign, and in conscious innocence he made answer in his own behalf. His voice had not one note of fear. He looked every inch the prince he was. Prince Exis was manifestly nervous in his presence.

"O king, live forever! May the gods bless thee and Prince Exis! A week ago, as the prince well knows, a company of peasant lads were having a half-day holiday. The boys all decided to play 'King.' In spite of the fact that I suggested that Exis be our king, all the boys shouted my name, and I could do no otherwise than accept. I was crowned king of the boys' junior realm, and every boy took an oath that he would be my loyal, obedient subject. The prince, like the other boys, also took an oath.

"But when I ordered him to do a certain task with the other of my servants, he stubbornly refused to obey. He violated his oath. As a king, what should I do? O king, if one of your subjects stubbornly refused to obey your just orders, what would you do?

"I dared not be partial. The laws of the Medes and Persians cannot be changed. He deserved to be punished. I only did my duty, under the circumstances. I have no more to say except that my dear father here is in no way concerned in what I did. He always tried to carry out the king's wishes respecting Prince Exis. He has always taught me to be most respectful toward my king. May we not implore the good king's pardon? Some day I wish to be a soldier of the king's guards. When Exis is king, I will show him how to obey orders; I will be his most obedient subject."

The king was nonplused. He did not believe a peasant's son capable of making such a defense in the presence of his judge. He was greatly impressed by his straightforward address and recognized the justice of his case. And there was something about the expression of this youth that caused misgivings in his soul. A conviction seized hold upon him that this was no ordinary child.

Like thunder out of a dear sky, forgetting for the moment the case at hand, he turned to Mitradates and asked sharply:

"Mitradates, is this your son?"

The king caught the sudden change of expression which passed over the face of the chief shepherd. He replied:

"O king, may the gods help thee! Darce is not the son of my marriage. He is mine by adoption. Until this very moment he has not known that my wife is not his mother."

A surprised look came into the eyes of Darce.

"Who is the mother of this extraordinary child?"

This was one of the questions the shepherd feared.

"O worthy king, I do not know. He was but a small babe when he came into our home."

Fear gripped the old shepherd. Darce was learning things of which he had never dreamed.

"O king, I will tell thee all. About ten years ago, when Darce was an infant in arms, the exalted Prince Harpagus gave him to me, not to rear as my son, but with strict orders to expose him to the wolves upon the mountain."

Darce shuddered to think of the fate he had missed.

"And why did you not carry out his orders?"

"Because upon arriving home, I learned that my wife, during my absence, had given birth to a son who lived only a few days. Her heart was broken. It was our first-born. Because of her tearful pleading, I exposed my dead son, and adopted the live child given me by Harpagus. I did wrong in that I gave him my sacred word that I had carried Out his instructions. Now this retribution has fallen upon me. May the gods help me! Darce has been such a good boy. O gracious king, his foster mother and I have loved him as our own child. We have given him our very best, and may I join with him in imploring thy merciful pardon. I should never have divulged this to any one except at thy command."

And then it was the king's turn to grow pale. Were his dreams to come true! All in his presence wondered at the sudden changed attitude of Astyages. As the full truth dawned upon him, he might be excused if he trembled. A boy he had long since celebrated as dead, stood before him the picture of perfect health. Exis, although about the same age, was a weakling by comparison.

For a moment he knew not what to answer. To his audience it was the strangest turn a case had ever taken. The king was trying to decide what position to take. Conflicting emotions tore him asunder. Should he command that the boy be instantly killed, or should he try to evade the facts, knowing all within the long-ago secret would not dare reveal them, and send the boy home to his mother. All present had heard the confession of Mitradates. In the present case, many were already involved. Justice declared Darce had done no wrong in punishing his subject. To kill such a noble youth for such a trivial offence could never be explained. He was certainly iia difficult position. His schemes and his resulting remorse came back vividly, and flooded his mind with sickening memories. He finally decided to take Mitradates and Darce aside into the audience chamber and there privately give them hi judgment of their case. They, too, were bewildered by the king's sudden manifest nervousness, but they noticed a gentle] tone to his voice as he spoke, which they interpreted must be in their favor.

"Darce, my son, I heard every word of your masterful defense. It was a plea worthy of a prince, for a prince you are You have just heard Mitradates state that you are not his son. I feel that I should perish immediately did I not now say what something seems to force me to tell you.

"Ten years ago I gave to Prince Harpagus a babe, with strict instructions that he be destroyed. I have the sealed statement of Harpagus that he carried out my wishes. Darce, you have this day taught me a lesson. When a king's subject disobeys his orders, he should be punished. That babe I gave to Harpagus was you, my boy. You are not Darce, the chief shepherd's son. You are Cyrus, my grandson, the firstborn of Mandane and Cambyses."

Both Mitradates and Darce were stunned by the astonishing news. The king continued:

"Before you were born, I had two terrible dreams about my daughter, your mother, Mandane. The Magi told me I must destroy her first-born if he were a man-child. I tried to carry out these instructions for what I believed was for the good of the kingdom, but the gods have failed me. Today, I see with my own eyes this child of destiny. Tomorrow, I shall send you home to Persia."

Turning to Mitradates, the king commanded him under pain of death, to return home quickly, and never to utter a word of what he had just heard. Darce bade him a most touching farewell, and whispered some sweet words in his ear as he departed. Our hero was too young to fully realize the fullness of all he had just heard, or to bear any hatred in his heart. The king, his grandfather, had only tried to carry out the instructions of his revered Magi. He accepted the strange turn of events as they came, and waited for the morrow.

THERE was no sleep for King Astyages that night, knowing that Cyrus was staying in his palace. True, none knew who the child was. He had been forbidden by the king to make his identity known. To all others, he was still Darce, the chief shepherd's son. And yet the servants were surprised at his being so royally entertained after giving Prince Exis a beating. They wondered also why his father had left so suddenly. The crown prince did not know what was said in the private audience room, the king deeming it wise for the present not to tell him or his mother. He knew that when he explained the case fully to her she would see the justice of the case.

During the three days he was returning, Mitradates was first glad and then sad by turns. Glad because he was free, glad that he had been honored for ten years to rear the son of Mandane, glad for Cyrus' sake that he had come into his rights. He was sad, however, with a lonesome heart. No more would he and his precious son walk the hill paths together. He and his good wife would miss the boy always. Their best had been suddenly snatched away. He meditated upon what his wife would say to all this. And Mitradates feared over the reaction that might later come to the king. Perhaps he would change his mind and kill the lad after all. They waited anxiously for the first news from Darce. They knew he would not forget them.

But to kill Cyrus was something the king did not dare do at that moment. He was certain some terrible calamity would befall him were he to do this. Between conflicting desires, he decided it was wiser to hurry him off to Persia, keep the affair from being exposed as long as possible at home, and then later, if Cyrus prospered in Persia, to crush him and his army in battle, rather than to take the risk of killing him then. He was sure the gods would prosper him in battle. Even if he had to manufacture a pretext, he would do so, and then give Cyrus battle and defeat, perhaps death.

In spite of all his plans, however, he recalled how failure had stalked him thus far, and he could not refrain from feeling some doubts. Exis had already felt the lash of Cyrus. He was certainly far from being dead as he had believed, and the king really began to fear that his dreams might prove to he a reality.

To Cyrus the whole experience was a wonderful vision. He had awakened and found himself a prince. He had often listened to his shepherdess mother tell of the Princess Mandane, a Median lady who had married a Persian. He now recalled her often telling the sad story of how her first-born had suddenly grown ill and died. Such Median folk-lore every boy knew. Cyrus could scarcely believe that he was that son, but he had heard the king, himself, declare it.

Many hours that night he lay awake trying to piece each part together, so that he could grasp it fully. He did not yet comprehend why the king had wished to destroy him when he was a baby. Why should the great Astyages be afraid of him? The king had not related to them his dreams. At last, sleep closed his eyes, and when he awakened, morning sunlight flooded his room.

An old servant, who was accustomed to obey orders without asking any questions, brought him some rich clothing. Such beautiful things he had never viewed before. After dressing he did not recognize his image in the polished brass mirror. Breakfast was served him in his room, and then he was hastened downstairs to confer with the king.

"Cyrus, my son, can you ride a horse?"

"I have ridden much, my king."

"Then I will provide my best Arabian for your use. I ax sending a strong guard to escort you safely into Persia. There you will behold your father and mother. Give them my love. They will be made happy by having you back from the dead. I am urgent to have you away. Prepare to leave at once."

Bidding his grandfather a respectful adieu, he mounted hi steed and rode behind the captain of the escort of soldier As yet not one of them knew the person they were taking to Persia. The captain was intrusted with a letter, which he was instructed to deliver with the lad to Cambyses and to non other. Cyrus did not see his grandfather again for several years. Then they were to meet under very distressing of circumstances.

Twice the captain tried to find out from Cyrus who h might be. He remarked on how well he rode his horse, asked him if he knew any one in Persia, and by various method did his utmost to learn the identity of his charge. But he did not succeed. The king had warned Cyrus, that for his own welfare, it were best not to divulge anything to anyone until he was safe at home with his parents. The king vainly hoped to keep the truth from being known in Media.

The birds soar the highest that have the hardest upbringing. So it was to prove in the case of Cyrus. Five days of ver fast travel brought them to the Persian capital. They ha scarcely stopped for food and rest. Because both states were under Babylon and already related one to the other, the guard from Ecbatana rode straight into the capital of Persia. Her the captain asked direction to the home of Prince Cambyse. A watchman on the gate courteously gave reply. He wondered who the well-dressed boy could be, and he had much to talk about when the news became known. That they had come from Ecbatana was evident from the soldiers' uniforms.

At the door of Cambyses' palace, the gateman was startled at seeing a band of Median soldiers halt outside. When he inquired their mission, the captain replied that he had a message from King Astyages of Media, for Prince Cambyses.

The matter was reported within, and without delay the captain was ushered into the presence of his host. A ten-year.. old child, dressed in style becoming a prince, slipped in with the captain. Cambyses gave the lad a passing glance, and made a mental reservation that he was an uncommonly fine-looking boy, then turned to ask the captain what important matter had brought him from the court of Media.

"Your Highness, I have been instructed with two separate missions. My soldiers were to protect this lad, and see that he was delivered safely to you, and I was to hand you personally this letter. I will tarry a moment to receive your reply, if any, and then I will be gone."

Cambyses chose to read the letter first, as he knew nothing of the boy, and he rightly judged that the letter would make clear that point. He read:

"Astyages, King of the Medes, to his most worthy son, Prince Cambyses, Greeting:

"I request that you keep from revealing to the captain of my soldiers the contents of this letter. I beg you do me this favor.

"I am this day sending to you your son Cyrus. [When the prince had read this far, he almost lost control of himself, but he only glanced once more at his long-lost son and then read on.] He himself is fully able to explain to you the circumstances under which I send him. May I regain by this act, a measure of your favor and former regard. Believe me, I am truly sorry for my past action. I had only the good of the state in mind. May the gods bless you and Mandane and your worthy son."

For a moment Cambyses was silent. He could not think. Here was mystery too deep to fathom. He first presented a gift to the soldiers and bade them depart. Once they had left the palace gate, the brave father found himself trembling from joyous excitement.

To his servants he shouted, "All of you out of my sight. I desire to be alone with this lad."

Up until now Cyrus had not spoken a word, but he had been a silent listener and observer of this man whom he rightly judged was his true father.

When they were alone and Cambyses was seated, he took his son by the hand as he stood beside him and said: "My child, this letter from King Astyages of Media says that you are my son Cyrus, whom I believed dead, lo, these ten years. The king's letter says you, yourself, will tell me all the details of this most baffling mystery. I am now ready to hear your recital of your experience during these many long days gone by. Are you truly my son Cyrus?"

"Yes, my beloved father. It seems so strange to call you father. To me, also, it all appears yet as a wakeful dream."

Then the father took his son in his big arms and embraced him tenderly.

Neither could speak for several minutes. Something seemed to choke them both. Cambyses bade his son begin his story. Many questions were asked and answered. All the facts we already know were finally made clear to both father and son. We need not review them here. They spent a long time together, and then Cambyses said:

"Your dear mother, Mandane, is not very strong. She has mourned your loss beyond words to express. Now she will be overjoyed, but I fear too great excitement may have an unfavorable effect upon her health. I will go first and very gently break the news to her. You remain here until I send for you."

Never did a man have a more welcome message to deliver to his wife. Cambyses was like a big boy. He did not know where to begin. He was fairly bursting with happiness and the excitement of it all. He wanted to quickly share his joy with Mandane. Seeing her so happy would bring added pleasure to him. Finding her in her apartments, ere he could speak a word, she felt his radiant joy. It beamed from his face.

"Cambyses, you have sonic good news for me. I can read it in your face. Have you a letter from Attosa? Did Nabonidus send you a favorable reply? What is it? Tell inc quickly."

"My precious, sit down. It is not news of the kind you mention. But I do have good news for you, the best you have ever heard, but I do not know how to begin to tell it."

"My dear, I am so anxious to know. Do not keep me in suspense."

Her mind never once guessed what the news might be. With the king's first letter, her son had dropped out of her life.

And then Cambyses did what he had not expected to do. He threw tact to the winds, and blurted it right out; said the first thing that came into his mind.

"My dearest wife, our son Cyrus, whom we thought dead, is alive, and is downstairs. I have been talking with him a long time. Oh, he is such a fine fellow! Hold yourself together now, and I will tell you the whole story."

One must needs pass through a similar experience to really know how Mandane felt. From the very attitude her husband manifested, she knew he was not deceiving her, but for the moment all seemed so vague. She knew her husband would not play with her feelings over anything so serious. As the truth dawned upon her and became clear to her mind, she burst into tears of joy and gratitude.

"Call him to come at once," she said.

"Dry your tears, darling, and I will."

Too intimate and too sacred for others to behold, was the greeting between mother and son. We will not attempt a description of that affectionate scene.

Tue next morning Cambyses caused a bulletin to be posted in the lower court: "My son Cyrus, born to Mandane in Ecbatana, reported dead, and mourned for ten years, is now a most welcome member of our household.

That was all, but it created no little stir in the palace, and throughout Persia. His parents did the wise thing by not publishing the details of his early life. These sad facts they kept in their own hearts. After all, Astyages was father or grandfather to two members of the family.
 
 

Gradually Cyrus adjusted himself to his new surroundings in Persia. He fell in love with his adorable mother. His former severe training in the peasant home of the chief shepherd of Media, prepared him to appreciate more the splendor of wealth and position which was his. He often thought of his foster parents, and not many weeks after becoming acquainted wit Ii his fat her amid mot her, with their knowledge and consent, he sent a generous memory present with a letter to Miradates and his wife up in the hill country. This brought great pleasure to their lonely lives, even though they dared not talk about it to anyone. Parents who do not rise good grammar may he expert iii the language of love. For a long time after his return home without Darce, Mitradates was plied with questions about the boy. To all he said nothing. People of the hill lands started many idle tales concerning him.

The news that Cyrus was alive and happily united with his parents in the capital of Persia, quickly spread throughout that province and across the line into Media, but as very few knew the facts and details of his life and homecoming, many different stories were circulated. Some of these were near the truth but some were very fantastic indeed. Jewish merchants heard of the good news in Persia and carried the report to Babylon. What effect tile rumors had over Media, will be detailed later. We pause first to speak of its effect upon the captives in Babylon.

Persecuted and oppressed as they were under Nabonidus, the loyal Jews in Babylon were probably as happy over receiving the wonderful news that Cyrus was alive as were Cambyses and Mandane over the return of their son.

As the word spread throughout the Jewish quarter, the most earnest ran toward Rabbi Hermon's house to verify the rumor. A meeting was appointed for that evening. All the faithful who received an invitation were anxious to attend, for nothing of such great importance and of such general interest had been heard for years.

"Cyrus is alive." "Cyrus is at home in Persia." "Cyrus is our deliverer." From Jew to Jew flashed the comments. If the Babylonians were observing they must have noticed many little companies of their Hebrew captives talking with animated expression and much gesture on almost every street corner.

A very enthusiastic audience greeted Rabbi Hermon, who addressed them in these words,

"Children of Abraham, welcome. This is a day of rejoicing. It is especially a happy day for those who live only by sight. Like Israel of old, they shout on the wrong side of the Red Sea. Faith shouts and claims the victory before the Red Sea is crossed. Faith says, I may not know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future.

"Where Cyrus has been these many years, we have not yet learned. There are many rumors. But I assure you that it is positively certain that he is a youth at home in the palace of his father, Prince Cambyses of Persia. One of my wealthy merchant friends read with his own eyes the bulletin posted in the courtyard of the prince's palace. Blessed are time eyes that see and belie ve, but more blessed are those who do not see and yet believe.

"One fact seems clear. During these days our faith has been tested. God builds no boats that He does not send out to sea. It takes many a tumble to keep us humble. We will never find the sunny side of life by running from the clouds. You never know what metal you are made of until you go into the fire. It is better to be preserved in brine than to rot in honey. When we are in danger of being swamped by success, God sends the lifeboat of trouble. Let this experience prove a lesson to you all. Know that God's word is true and cannot fail even when you do not see.

"There are three degrees of faith, as dearly illustrated by Mishael's reply when he and his two fiends faced the king's fiery furnace. First he said, 'Our God is able to deliver us.' The first degree of faith is necessary to be able to say that; to know God well enough to believe that He is able to deliver. Then he added, 'And He will deliver us.' More faith is necessary to say that. But the third degree of faith is in his final statement. 'But if riot, we will not bow; we'll die first.' Time third degree of faith is required to live a trustful life, without fret or worry, when one cannot see.

"Today we are happy. We should always be happy. The first ray of heaven's sunshine will dry up all the rivers of earth's tears. God is always likely to take from 'is that which will keep us from Him. Making a living is one thing, but there is something more important than making a living -- making a life worth living. God may empty our hands in order to fill our hearts. The mao who is good has all eternity in which to become great. There God has no poor children. Sympathy is something learned only in the school of sorrow. Honeyed lips alone will not sweeten sad lives. God must keep most of us with our noses to the grindstone in order to keep us from running away from Him. Run down hill if you will as fast as you can, but be sure you will break your neck at last.

"God is all wise, all powerful. all loving. This true statement requires faith to believe. Because He is all wise, He knows what you desire; because He is all powerful, He is able to give you what you desire; because He is all love, He will give you that which you desire, if, in His infinite wisdom, He sees it is best for you. And if God knows that what you desire is not best for you, you really ought not to desire it. Faith knows that all is right for God's children. Some day you will see His choice for you was best.

"God is able to deliver us from this city. We believe that He will deliver us. But can you say, after passing through these ten years of darkness, 'If He does not deliver us, we will do right and serve Him anyhow.' You should know now that as a loving father He is doing the very best for His children. Because He has given His word, no 'if's' are included in this deliverance. If you have learned this lesson from our long time of waiting, then all will be well.

"I am now at liberty to tell you that ten years ago, Daniel told me that this very surprise would come. God revealed it to him. During these ten years he has been tried with the rest of us, but his faith has never faltered.

"Nearly forty years, more than half the predicted time of our captivity has gone by. Cyrus is now ten yeas old. We must wait patiently, and watch current events in their relation to what Jeremiah wrote. At the end of the seventy years, we shall surely hear the good word of deliverance."

Two striking events caused great commotion in Media. The news spread that the boy, whom every one knew as Darce, and who came with the chief shepherd to Ecbatana, did not return with him to the hills, but, instead, was escorted into Persia and left at the palace of Cambyses. And ere long reports of the bulletin posted in the prince's courtyard, stating positively that his son Cyrus was safe at home, began to be circulated in Media. None dared ask the king about either of these matters, but persons of high and low estate debated what these rumors might mean.

Darius became so stirred over the stories he heard, that h actually sent two trusted messengers to see if Darce was at the house of the chief shepherd. While these two learned no de tails, they did easily ascertain that Mitradates had returned home without him. No Darce seemed to live any longer in those parts. All the peasant boys were inquiring what had become of their leader. The father's lips were closed tightly. He would never commit himself as to whether his son were dead or alive.

But the fact that a guard of soldiers had taken a richly dressed boy of about the same age and size as Darce, the very next morning to Persia, added to the more recent report from Cambyses that Cyrus was safe at home, made Darius feel for a certainty that Darce was Cyrus, and that the grand funeral they had attended about ten years previously was all a hoax. Why King Astyages had acted thus, he did not know until he brought the matter to the notice of Attosa, his wife. Then he learned the full truth.

She recalled clearly her heartaches and tears during that season. She told her husband of the king's plan to have Cyrus killed, and how her father Harpagus had, at her mother's request, sent the boy to Mitradates. Beyond that she did not know. Only it was very evident that the chief shepherd's report to her father that the babe Cyrus was dead, could not have been true. What had happened, she did not understand; neither did others. She wondered if her father had heard of these strange rumors. She trembled because of what she feared would be the resulting consequences to him, if the king knew all, as it seemed he must. Begging permission from Darius, she hastened home to carry the tidings.

Harpagus, strange as it may seem, had not heard the rumors. He had remained at home for some days with a slight illness, and no one of his household had chanced to speak of them in his presence. He was struck with terror as Attosa pieced together the story as it had come to them. But one thing could happen to him, he knew, if Astyages had found out that Cyrus was not dead, even though to his full intention he had not knowingly failed to carry out the king's command. He was sincere when he sent his sealed statement to the capital. In an endeavor to find out the full facts, he sent post haste the second time for Mitradates. With even greater anxiety, the chief shepherd hastened to the castle of Harpagus.

But Mitradates told very little. He was more afraid of King Astyages than of Prince Harpagus. He knew he had told Harpagus a falsehood, and, technically, he had been at fault in not obeying his orders, but he was wise enough to know that if he were injured by Harpagus, the prince would only make his own ca-se more complicated with the king. He merely told the prince that Astyages had commanded him under pain of death, never to reveal anything concerning his son.

All of which did not bring peace to the heart of Harpagus. But he, too, was satisfied that the chief shepherd's son was none other than Cyrus. After that he feared daily for his life. His wife attempted to console him by saying that he had honestly done his duty in so far as his intentions were concerned. He had done the right thing to turn the child over to Mitradates. If the gods had interfered to save Cyrus, they should all be thankful. She knew the king would also be fearful of the rumors and would likely let the matter drop rather than keep the fire burning. Attosa returned to her home and all awaited the king's move.

The many rumors troubled King Astyages greatly. Constantly he asked himself what effect they might be having upon his subjects generally. Those who did know the particulars kept silent, for their own lives were at stake, but sometimes dame rumor can he more damaging and dangerous than facts. Some things he could hot, and would not, attempt to deny. Everyone knew that he had buried Cyrus ten years before, and now everyone seemed to know that he was very much alive.

The more he heard, and the longer he meditated over the matter, the more his hatred burned toward Harpagus for his failure in carrying out his orders, and then sending him a sealed avowal that he had. Harpagus, so the king decided, was to be blamed for the most aggravating situation he had ever been compelled to face.

There were days when he told himself that the whole affair would die down if he did not keep stirring, but wisely ignored the reports. At times he believed he would do well not to agitate the question at all. Then some new outburst would make him more angry, and he finally decided that a disobedient subject, although an honored prince, should not go unpunished.

One day he sent for Harpagus with the request that he bring his young son and come up to the capital.

The prince dared not fail to comply, but his whole household felt that the day of doom had arrived for him. With his only son he entered the king's palace and was received, apparently, with as much regard as on former occasions.

Over their wine cups, King Astyages spoke:

"My worthy prince, some ten years ago I intrusted you with a special mission of a very grave nature. I later received your sealed statement that you had successfully carried out my orders. It was a very trying ordeal for you. and these many years I have greatly appreciated your loyalty. I feel that I have never fully rewarded you for that service. Tomorrow I am giving a feast in your honor. All the great. men of Media will be present. Return now to your home but fail not to come to my feast at high noon tomorrow. I have only one slight request to make of you: leave your son with me until after the feast."

Harpagus detected the hypocrisy in the king's speech, but likewise seeming not to know of the rumors abroad everywhere, he thanked the king for extending to him such great honor. His heart was heavy, although he was outwardly smiling as he left his son amid took his journey homeward.

At his report his wife and little Dana wept. Well they knew the oriental ways of dealing. They feared the worst might happen the next day in the presence of all at the feast. We have absolutely no idea of the power and authority of absolute despots. Harpagus had only one ray of hope. Darius would be at the feast and he was sympathetic. He had a question or two he wished very much to have answered. Why had the king desired to kill Cyrus? Why had he used the underhanded methods he had used?

But as though nothing unusual was expected to happen, each guest gathered at the king's rich repast. All had been informed that it was a feast given in honor of Prince Harpagus, but none knew why. Darius even entertained a feeling that the king might be using this means to hush up the reports concerning Cyrus.

Until the guests had been seated at dinner, nothing of more than ordinary interest occurred. None dared in the king's presence mention the name of Cyrus. Harpagus missed his son but knew it was unwise to inquire concerning him. He, with the others, appeared outwardly gay and unworried.

At the high table Harpagus was given the seat of honor, and the servants were commanded to bring on the food.

The guests were surprised that the king had not said a few words when the butler escorted Harpagus to the seat of honor. When the flesh course was served, a bowl of special quality was placed before Harpagus. He dared not refuse to eat his portion as the other guests ate theirs. He dared not appear anxious or sad in the presence of the king. Fearful for his life, he did riot for a moment betray his inward feeling, but he recognized that the bowl before him contained human flesh. The king had served to him a portion of his own slaughtered son. What an awful dish to feast upon!

With an iron nerve the prince retained his jovial expression of countenance and speech until he had bidden the king adieu. Not even by a look did the hard-hearted king reveal that he had done anything out of the usual. None of the guests knew of the insult that had been heaped upon the one the king was supposed to honor. The king was having his revenge, and Harpagus must meekly accept his punishment. Never again would his little son gladden the fireside of his palace home. Now only Dana was left him. None of the family dared reveal anything, and this made their sorrow almost unbearable.

For the present Harpagus decided it were best not to do anything. He knew the king would now probably feel satisfied over his bloody deed, and nothing more would be said about Cyrus. But inwardly he swore he would be revenged upon Astyages. He would bide his time and opportunity. Some day both would come. Until that day he would resign ¹iimself to fate and serve the king as before. Outwardly none should know the breech between them. To his immediate household he made no reply to questions regarding his son.

But there was one who lived outside the castle from whom he could not hide the truth. On her next visit home, Attosa missed her little brother, and Attosa had a way of finding out what she wanted to know. First Dana dropped a word, just a hint, which sent Attosa to her mother, and before very long she knew the whole sad tale.

A few nights later, with her head on the pillow beside Darius, she was seized with uncontrollable weeping. Finally she unburdened her heart to her husband and told him the whole sorrowful experience which had come into her family in the death of her only brother.

This became the last straw with Darius. He loved his native land and he adored his king, but all the things he had learned of late were fast weaning him away from Astyages. The king's attempt to kill his nephew Cyrus, and now the cruel murder of his wife's little brother, the son of a prince, rankled in the heart of Darius, and he felt nothing could justify such crimes against innocent children. He told Attosa the day would come when the old king would receive his just dues. The confidence drove him even doser to Harpagus.

Many a secret conference they enjoyed together. Between them they commanded fully two-thirds of the Median army.

Their first move was to win thoroughly the heart of every officer under them. This they set about by various means to accomplish. They must be certain, in the event of any move they might make, that every man in their respective commands would do their bidding.

Historians disagree very markedly among themselves over many events in the life of Cyrus and those who lived in his day. In fact, on some points hardly any two of them agree. We have been tempted to say that until two, at least, can agree together, we are not obliged to agree with either. That which is part of the Biblical record, we accept, of course, at full value. One point upon which there is some agreement is that the daughters of Harpagus were outstandingly beautiful Attosa, instead of the Lydian maiden, might have been the king's second wife, but Harpagus, desiring the happiness of his children above worldly position, had learned that Attosa preferred Darius to the king. With no son to cheer their hearts and build their hopes upon, Harpagus and his accomplished wife put the best they had into the training of Dana. As a rosebud she bloomed into young womanhood. They watched her development with keenest delight. Harpagus fairly worshipped her, and therefore he refused many a promising suitor for her hand.

She rode with her father when he rode forth to review his troops. Knowing the background and the secret understanding between her father and Darius, she became a powerful factor in helping him to secure the allegiance of all his soldiers. She was every army officer's princess. She loved to attend her father on his private hunts, and many a fox and hare fell to her accurate skill. She and her father were one. He trusted her as he did none other. She was to climb to the very highest of earth's social peak, as future chapters will reveal.

IRIS never called Azariah by his Hebrew name. She always I used the Babylonian name King Nebuchadnezzar had given him. Abednego was made up of four Chaldean characters, and she early began dropping off the last two, calling him Abed, with the accent on the first syllable.

The day after he had won his crown at the royal games, he quite unexpectedly received a letter by carrier from Iris:

"My dear Abed: Forgive me for the words I said a few days past. I know they hurt you. Will you believe me when I say that they have hurt me, too? Every moment since you so proudly left me, I have been sorry. Father is glad because he won with you. You are welcome to come here as before. Perhaps you do not care to come, and if you do not, this is to inform you that there is much trouble ahead for you. Because you won the race, many lost heavily. Those in authority crave revenge. Do be very careful. It may be wiser for you to go away for a season. You were magnificent yesterday to rise and win after Nazzar so meanly tripped you. I hope to see you soon, very soon. Your affectionate Iris."

As the natural result of a Jew winning the honor race in the royal games, the captives in Babylon were jubilantly happy. They did not dare speak out their feelings outside their own race, but among themselves they were very pleased. Azariah was seemingly not affected by the praise and flattery showered upon him. The average man is like a match: if he gets lit up, he loses his head. Old Abram, who won two thousand talents, gave a grand feast to all the Jew& of social standing. Most of that evening the mind of Azariah was upon the letter he had in his pocket. He couldnot decide what course to take. The next day he let indination have its way, and went to the palace of Meizar. Iris met him in the hallway.

"Abed, I am so happy because you have come. It is not in you to hold a grudge. I was silly to say what I did. Tell me you forgive me. I am yet only a little girl, and I do not know very much. You have humbled us all greatly. Come in and tell me what you have decided to do."

"Iris, you are just the same as always. Of courseI forgive you, if there is anything to forgive. I knew that you did not speak your own heart the other day. But tell me what you mean by your last statement. What is it you expect me to decide upon?"

"I am anxious to hear if you have decided to remain in the capital, or if you are going away for a time. I know you will be safer if you leave here for a few months, as much as I will miss your being away. These are not idle rumors we are hearing. Father knows more or less of what is going on, and he told me that Beithazzar had a conference with the king. He, spurred on by Nazzar and a few others who lost much, are planning to harm you."

"Iris, it would be cowardly for me to run away. I won fairly against a big handicap. If the Persian or Lydian had reached the goal first, nothing would be said or done about it. They are making this trouble because I am a Jew, and that is no reason at all. No, I will remain in Babylon. If I must be punished because I did my best, I will take my punishment like a man. I asked no one to wager money on me. That was their own doings, their own loss or gain. I ran for the sake of the race and to show that a Jew is not behind the rest of the world in ability and endurance."

"Abed, I greatly admire your spirit, but I am terriblyafraid for your future. These men are cruel and wicked. They have no conscience. I want to add one sentence I could not have said a week ago. I now see that Bel does not care for the in. cense his followers burn for him. He does not hear their petitions. I am beginning to think as you do that Bel is no god at all."

"You make me happy by saying that. Whenever your father gives you permission to accept our religion, or whenever you decide for yourself to do it, regardless of the consequences, I shall have something very necessary to my happiness to say to you. I think you perceive my meaning. I must return now, Rabbi Hermon is holding a family reunion and I must not keep them waiting at the table. Good-bye, Iris, and until we meet again, may God bless you and your father."

Why he said those last words he did not know. Perhaps he had a premonition of something about to happen, for he did not arrive at the home of Rabbi Hermon. On the way thither, he was seized by soldiers and almost dragged to the city prison. There he was thrown into a damp cell, infested with vermin of all sorts.

When he did not join the family reunion, all became worried about his safety. His sister urged Hananiah to make inquiry. Esther felt that something might be learned from Iris, and to her home they finally went. She related to them the forenoon's experience, and told how he had bidden her good- bye to go to the feast. They followed her advice and found him where she directed them to look.

At his hearing the next day, Abed was charged with cursing the king. Two witnesses testified that they had heard him. That they had been hired to tell this falsehood, made no difference in the result. The king ordered him kept in prison, and no time limit was given. Through the influence of Melzar, his filthy cell was exchanged for a cleaner, lighter room. No one ever learned how much silver this cost, but Abed was indeed grateful.

Why he should remain year after year in prison, shut away from friends and the beautiful earth, was a mystery to all. Everyone knew it was the fruit of envy. Abed remembered young Joseph in Egypt. On the frame-up of an officer's wife, Joseph was accused, condemned, and thrown into prison for years. But because he remained loyal under test, he came out of prison to be governor of all Egypt. This experience gave Abed courage to hope on. Iris visited him often and remained his steadfast friend. She truly pitied him. She supplied him with reading and many choice bits of food. She and her father were able to do for him, under the circumstances, what his fellow Jews could not do. By constantly aiding him they risked their social standing but for this they had somehow ceased to care. Every week Abed felt more and more under obligation to these true friends.

The injustice of it all would have made him hard and bitter but for his steadfast faith in God, whom he knew would one day vindicate the right. He would suffer patiently and wait for the wheel to turn. Perhaps he needed a humbled spirit. His wonderful muscles, from lack of exercise, wasted away, and he became the mere shadow of his former self.

Then quite suddenly came a surprise to all. A royal proc. lamation freed all prisoners. Nebonidus had received an heir. At the birth of Beishazzar, he extended mercy to all and the prison doors were opened for everyone. Abed went directly to the home of Rabbi Hermon, where he had only time enough to wash and change his clothes before a carrier arrived with a letter.

"Dear, dear Abed: At last you are free. I heard of this morning's proclamation, and I think I am sending this letter to the right place to find you. Father joins me in sending best wishes for your future and in inviting you to call just as soon as you have had time to learn of all that has happened during the long period of your shameful confinement. Now that the king has an heir, we hope matters will be a little more favor. able for the Jews. I believe conditions will improve. I have heard your sister say a little about a young Persian prince by the name of Cyrus. Won't you tell me more about him and what you expect from the predictions of your prophets? I am, as ever, awaiting your visit. Sincerely, Iris."

BACK in Persia happiness reigned. No mother was ever so contented as was Mandane after the return of Cyrus. Month by month and year by year the boy grew into a leader of men. His schooling was of the most severe type. Every day he was obliged to repeat the Persian proverb: "Square thy. self for use; a stone that will fit in the wall is not left in the way." His tutor taught him languages, court manners, and other required studies of the day. Some men grow; others merely swell. He knew that two-thirds of promotion consists of motion. He never forgot the years of his poverty and they always exerted a good influence over his life.

He grew tall and strong. The boys' camps, the many royal hunts, and his continuous military training, gave him poise, command, and courage. While still a youth, probably because of his early impression of Media, he began to train a company of soldiers. The boys among themselves fought many a mock battle and, of course, Cyrus always won. He did not know the meaning of defeat. With Cyrus every one could win who believed he could. He never counted or planned on losing.

On different occasions his father Cambyses took him aside and for a long time impressed his mind with the idea that Persia must some day become a great nation; that she must not remain a mere vassal of Media and Babylon.

Cyrus cherished no ill feeling against his grandfather, Astyages, but he never cared to visit Ecbatana. He heard of the death of Prince Exis and lamented the fact that there was no direct heir to the throne of the Medes. Later he recalled that he often thought King Astyages might leave the throne to his brother-in-law, Prince Darius.

He many times reviewed over in his mind his babyhood experiences. Would he ever again see Mitradates? He longed to thank personally hisfoster mother. And he wished that he might one day visit Prince Harpagus, whose only son had really died in his place. How he pitied that soldier-father! As a youth heoften prayed that it mightbe his privilege to avengeI he dcai h of that boy who had met sucha cruel fate. He never once thought ofavenging his owndeath decree uponhis old grandfather.

As Cyrus developed into perfect young manhood, several ambassadors called in turn uponCambyses, each representing sonic princess, whom they were certain would make the young prince a good wife. Canibyses would hot decide without Mandane, and she, perhaps from a selfish motive, having been lost to him for SOlong, always put themoff. Nothing of this nature wassettled upon, and finally, when Cyrus became old enough to talk over these love affairs for himself, he requested his parents to leave all such matters with him. Whenever he wished to marry, he was certain the right mate would appear. His father and mother both consented to his wishes and they let tile subjectdrop from their minds. 

Cyrus almost worshipped hisbeautiful mother, now growing into middle life. He was sure he never could find another woman tier equal. She admired her manly son. Mother, son, and daughter spent many a happy clay together. The first human blood evershed by Cyrus, was shed because a villain insulted his sister one day while she was exercising in the fields near the city. Only because of her earnest pleading, Cyrus did not kill him. After this experience, she was forbidden to go outside the city unattended. Fortunate for her that Cyrus was within calling distance, near enough to hear her cries for help.

Two important events occurred in the household of Cambyses in the same year. Their daughter, Artystone, was married to a wealthy Persian landowner, and Cyrus was made commander-in-chief of the small Persian army. He immediately set aboutto increase its strength and efficiency. To give his soldiers training inthe use of weapons, he led them into remote sections of the mountains to fight with wild beasts. Then he led them to attack and subdue the tribes across the borderline. Little by little, the reputation of Cyrus as a soldier spread to other lands.

King Astyages, in Ecbatana, heard of his success, and recalled his two dreams about Mandane. He greatly feared the rising power of young Cyrus. It haunted him day and night. High and low in the capital, he learned from his wife, still talked about the boy who was once sent to Persia ten years after his funeral was held. one night an event happened in the palace which hastened Astyages to his long-formed decision to crush the Persian army before it had time to gather strength.

Surrounded by his dancing girls and many concubines, the old king called upon one of the girls to sing a song. Much to his confusion she arose and sang,

"The lion had the wild boar in his power, but let him depart to his own lair. In his lair he will wax in strength, and will cause the lion a world of toil, till at length, although the weaker, he will overcome the stronger."

Astyages was angry, notso much with the girl, though he did not appreciate her nerve to sing such a song tohim; but with himself forhaving made such a mess of things. The Magi had warned him to destroy the first born of Mandane, andall his efforts thus far had been foiled. He determined to attempt it once more, this timewith the whole strength of the Median army, and he would not fail.

He immediately began to plan on the invasion of Persia. With money, a large army, and able commanders, he believed he could onceand for all time settle the question of his provoking dreams.Cyrus must die if Media was to continue,and the honorable way t.o kill him was by giving him battle. Hedid not know that God's word had named Cyrus before Astyagcs had ever dreamed his dreams, and had declared of him that he should rule the world.

The death of his son and heir was a heavy blow to King Astyages. His hopes for ever having an heir were now forgotten. If arty one had a right to the throne of Media after he was gone, it was Mandane, his daughter. If a male was required, then Cyrus was the rightful claimant of the throne of the Medes. Bitt to this the old king would never give his consent. He believed it would be the downfall of Media to have a Persian on the throne. Had not his Magi warned him? He would abide by his decision and fight Cyrus to the finish. After lie, himself, was buried, another Mede could have his kingdom. He would name someone, or the strongest could get it.

He called a council of war and told his generals of his intention to invade Persia and crush Cyrus. From a human point of view, it appeared to be a very easy thing to do. Astyages commanded his officers to maintain the strictest secrecy in respect to his purpose, that no word of his intentions get through to his enemy. But the king of the Medes had another power besides Persia to contend with. The flood, which in his dream, issued from Mandane, was indeed to drown him, and the grape. vine was in fact to strangle him.

Prince Harpagus returned from the war council and took his wife and Dana into his confidence. Somehow he had learned to rely a great deal upon their advice. Almost the first sentence his companion said was:

"My worthy lord, if Astyages dies and leaves no heir, as seems very probable now, there will be endless internal strife over who is to be king. How much better to call Cyrus to the throne. True, he is a Persian on his father's side, but he has a Median mother, and he is proving himself to be a very able commander. Doubtless he could be persuadec1 to marry a Median wife. My advice to you is that you strike for your rights now. This is the time you have been waiting for these many years. Try and persuade Darius to join you in revolting against Astyages in favor of Cyrus."

To this Harpagus agreed, for it was his own mind exactly. The next morning he went to meet his son-in-law, Darius, to see if he would consent to such a procedure. Almost the first question Darius asked was:

"Are you certain you can count on the support of your younger officers?"

"Thanks to Dana, I am certain. Every under officer in the army under my command is loyal to the household of Harpagus. If I wished the throne for myself, they would fight for me to a man. Can you depend upon your troops?"

"I believe so. Doubtless youare aware that it is the thought of the king that incase he dies without an heir, I am to follow him as ruler of tile Medes. But, somehow, I feel that to throw in my lot with Cyrus will win more for me in the end. That young man is a child of destiny.I would rather be his friend than his enemy. I think no Mede under my command will object to taking an oath of allegiance to Cyrus."

And thus, unknown to the king, these two plotted treason. They decided definitely, that on the eve of the battle they would revolt with their entire force to the Persian standard, leaving the old king to the mercy of the one he was trying to crush. With two-thirds of the king's troops refusing to enter the battle, Cyrus would find it an easy task to oppose Astyages and the small number of soldiers he would have with him.

When Darius asked Attosa that evening if he had decided correctly and wisely, she replied:

"My dear Darius, you were right for three reasons. You should stand by father in getting his revenge upon the old king. You should stand by Mandane and Cyrus, who have the first right to the throne. United with Cyrus, who knows hut what you will one day rule a kingdom much larger than Media! I am happy because of your choice. Where thou goest, I will go also."

The next week, in anticipation of the coming war, Astyages gave a grand feast to all his leading citizens. At the feast he told them, for the honor of the kingdom he intended, as he often did, to mobilize his troops. He did not tell them he planned to lead them into battle. He said he was mobilizing them to give them practice in the art of combat, and to reveal the strength and glory of his army to any who might be contemplating an attack upon Media. As yet, only his leading commanders knew of his plans. This announcement was to remove suspicion as long as possible from the people, and thus keep the news from Persia. His countrymen enjoyed those periodic pageants when the king reviewed the soldiers of the realm. Astyages did not wish Cyrus to have any time for preparation. He intended to surprise him. This was the second time Cyrus was doomed to die at the hand of the Medes.

Sitting together at the feast were Harpagus and Darius. They alone knew how futile were the king's plans. Harpagusrecalled with sorrow rather than revenge a similar feast he had attended some fifteen years before. A few more days and his debt would be paid, and as he felt, justly. They permittedthe old king to talk on, knowing well that it would be his last venture. And Astyages talked boastfully on, like a man who may think he is eloquent when he is only evaporating.

That night, after the feast, Astyages held a long conference with his commissary and treasury heads. To them he confided his plans and ordered them to prepare, as quietly as possible, provisions and money for the expedition. Much to the surprise of Darius, both came to him the next day to seek his counsel. He advised them to go right ahead and do as the king had ordered.

At the time appointed, an army of three hundred thousand men encamped without the walls of Ecbatana. To further allay suspicion, Astyages spent a week in mock combats, in parades, and in reviews. He feasted his commanders. Private citizens did not suspect that the king was soon to order an advance on Persia. He was granting time for money and provisions to be collected.

Since we shall have much to do with this army, we pause to say that it was as fine a body of soldiers as the world could produce at that time. Even the Babylonian troops did not equal them. Since the death of Nebuchadnezzar his golden kingdom had fast deteriorated. All the vassal states had become partially independent units, who paid taxes to the central power, but were almost a law unto themselves.

TAKING a scroll of the prophetical writings, Abed called I at the home of Meizar, delighted to answer the inquiry of Iris and to explain to her the predicted statements concerning Cyrus. He read first a message sent to them from Jerusalem by the prophet Jeremiah, which said positively that the Jews during their captivity would be in Babylon seventy years. At the end of that time deliverance was assured. Iris asked that he read it the second time.

"For thus saith the Lord, That after seventy years be accomplished at Babylon, I will visit you and perform my good word toward you, in causing you to return to this place.

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." Jeremiah 29:10-11.

Then he read the verses from Isaiah, which are quoted earlier in this volume -- the verses which name Cyrus as the one who would release the captives.

"Do you really believe these predictions will be fulfilled?"

"Yes, Iris, every statement uttered by a true prophet of Jehovah will be fulfilled. Nothing has ever failed, nothing will ever fail."

"Then you mean to tell me that within the next ten years, more or less, within our natural lifetime, a prince Cyrus will capture this city, and our present line of kings will be no more? Do you mean that the present dynasty will end and a Persian will sit upon the throne?"

"That is exactly what will happen."

"Abed, it will be most interesting to watch the trend of events, and see if your God is true. If this Cyrus you speak of ever appears, I will henceforth worship the God who knows the future and informs mankind through His chosen agencies. If Bel cannot protect this city, I shall know that he is no god."

"Iris, I am no longer a young man, but I expect to see what I have been reading to you take place. Those years in prison have left their marks upon me. I shall do my best to regain my strength. If I do, I shall wait anxiously for the day when you can join me in the worship of the true God."

The household of Melzar employed a Jewish butler. He was a scheming, money-loving, worthless character. Very improperly, he had stood behind the drawn curtains during the conversation between Abed and Iris. An evil suggestion came into his mind, and he prepared to put it into operation for his own profit.

He knew the king of Babylon would very much appreciate knowing what Abed had just told Iris. He himself had previously heard something of these predictions, but he was never invited to the secret meetings of the Hebrews, and it had never occurred to him until now that he might gain by giving away this information. He believed the king would reward him. That he was proving a traitor to his race did not disturb him.

Securing a prophetic roll and marking the references so he could find them easily, he bribed a low official to gain him admittance to one of the king's counselors, who, having heard his story, brought him in before the king.

"O King, live forever! I have found a man of the captives of Judah by the name of Dan, who has some most valuable information to impart to the king. The Jews in Babylon are planning an insurrection. Their books teach that soon a certain Cyrus will appear and capture this city, the city of our fathers, ruled by the descendants of the great god Bel, and put an end to your dynasty. They teach that then a Persian will rule the world. They are iii touch with this prince and are giving him promise of aid and support. I counsel thee to do two things. Investigate the report of this young Persian Cyrus, and see if he is dangerous. At home, set a close watch upon the Jews. The king will have wisdom to act as the gods direct."

"I have had endless trouble with these Jews, but they shall now know that my patience is ended. So they believe they will be released at the end of seventy years? Who iS tile god that can take them out of my hand? Tomorrow I will issue a decree, which will put an end to this nonsense."

"Shall I reward this informer?"

''Yes, give him a handful of gold. have him report to you every fortnight. I he remains loyal to the king of Babylon, he shall not be sorry in the end."

The next day the following notice, stamped with the king's seal, was posted in various parts of the capital.

"Authentic information has been received by the king to the effect that the Jews in Babylon are plotting, in connection with some distant supporters, the overthrow of the kingdom. Flenceforth they are to be considered as enemies of the state. Citizens of Babylon, watch them closely, have no dealings with them, and report any harmful action to the office of justice. Forbid private gatherings. See that every Jew is within his own door at sundown. Search every Hebrew who leaves or enters the city gates. Any one detected as implicated in rebellion, will be punished with cruel death."

The Jewish leaders read the decree with dismay and sadness. Who could be responsible for this new tribulation? Very secretly, during daylight hours, they counselled, two or three together, and decided to send a delegation of three to wait upon the king. They felt they could truthfully say that they were not at that time counselling with any one for the overthrow of the government. Not one of them had ever talked with Cyrus, or had had any communication with him whatsoever. Except for believing the word of God as to what would come for thiemmi, they were loyal to the king of Babylon.

The king consented to receive them, but when he had read from one of their own scrolls the predictions, they were speechless, wondering who had betrayed them to Nabonidus. They knew that the king himself could not read Hebrew, nor was it at all likely that any of his interpreters had of themselves searched out these passages. The Jews had nothing to say. The least said the better. They returned to their homes to await the inevitable. What a curse Dan had brought upon his people. Truly, like his great namesake, he was a "snake in the grass." We shall hear more of him in days to come. Those who throw themselves away usually do not like the place where they land. How little did Abed and Iris know that indirectly they were responsible for the added hardship brought upon the Hebrew people. Their burdens seemed almost greater than they could endure. They had but one high star of hope. News reached them that Cyrus wasgrowing strong in Persia, and they watched the signs of the times with increased longing.

"Abed, I have a question to ask you," said Iris one afternoon. "If your God is so powerful, so wise, and loves you as your prophet wrote, having thoughts of peace concerning you, why do you ticed to suffer this way?"

"My dear Iris, that is not a question for me to decide. While I cannot understand all the workings of Providence, I trust film as a child trusts his parents. A little child does not understand many acts of his father. He does not enjoy his father's correction. He does not realize that it costs his loving parent more pain to punish him than he suffers. All whom God loves, He corrects even as a father. Character is best developed amid storm clouds and tempests. Iron which takes temper in the hot fire and cold water is very valuable; that which does not is worthless. 1 must stand the tempering process. I care not what my heavenly Father does to me, only I don't want Him to toss me on the scrap pile. The end of the seventy years is not far distant."

The morning before he led his troops to Echatana, Harpagus called his daughter Dana into conference.

"Good morning, father. What assistance can your first officer give today?"

"My precious Dana, only the eye of love can read aright the hook of life. You have certainly been a great help to me, and today you can do more for me than you have ever done before. I am absolutely certain I can trust you. How good it is to feel that way about someone! For more than two years you have been one with me in my plans and you have never failed me. Tomorrow you shall begin to learn a new form of military warfare. You will he my chief of secret services. I think I shall call you operator number one!

"I want you to carry a message to Prince Cyrus in Persia. No small task to ask a young girl to perform, is it? I have considered sending others, but I feel it will be safest intrusted to you. If you fail to get it through, no one could. The journey will be very dangerous. You must not go by the highway, but by little used roads through the mountains. After a week's travel, you will reach the border. I will send seven servants with you, and each night you will return one to me with a report. Thus I will know if you safely get over the border. You will retain one with you on to the Persian capital. You will need him to assist you there and on your return. Say nothing of your mission to anyone. You had better disguise yourself. Once over the border you will be safe."

No one saw the little company depart at the time of the cock crowing. Her attendants did not know where they were going or why. They were the most trusted of the household. Each night she simply wrote a few words and gave it to one to return to her father. The journey was indeed perilous. They traveled over dangerous roads, through floods, and were in constant danger from wild beasts. Dana's heart beat faster as she neared the border. When over she tittered a sigh of relief. Her clothing had been torn by the brambles. Her horse was weary and covered with mud. The food along the way was not the kind she was accustomed to eating. But for the love she bore her father and their cause, she did it gladly. Was she not a part of a great plan?

As she neared the capital of Persia, her heart began to pound harder again. Cyrus had been a part of her life since childhood, but she had never seen him. However, she knew what few others did, that he was soon to be king of united Media and Persia, and she considered it a great honor to be her father's secret ambassador to hin.

To all outward appearances, as she stood before his palace gate, she was anything but alluring. Her torn clothing might belong to a peasant girl. She wore a veil over her face. Her one servant carried a hare. The gateman looked at her more than once before he would announce her presence within. Doubtless even then he would have ordered the pair to move on, but she lifted her veil and smiled.

Cyrus ordered the young woman admitted. Young ladies in ragged garments seldom called at his palace gate. Probably for this reason, more than for any other, he ordered her admitted.

She entered with her trusty servant, who was carrying the dead hare. What a spectacle she made as Prince Cyrus saw her for the first time! He arose as she entered and rather roughly ordered her to remove her veil. As she viewed his handsome face and looked into his dark eyes, she blushed slightly, and knelt, as was the custom, a moment at his feet. Then she stood erect, proudly awaiting his word. Her wonderful secret gave her perfect self-control. All could see that Cyrus was much impressed by the girl before him, who, although clothed in rags, had the bearing and looks of a princess. Behind Dana stood her servant, with his head always bowed. The hare dangled from his right hand, its nose almost touching the flagstones.

"My young woman, who are you and why do you seek admittance here?"

"My lord, I am Dana, daughter of Harpagus, Prince of Media. I bear a present from my father to my lord Cyrus."

"'What is the nature of your present? If I mistake not, your father was the one the king of Media ordered to kill me when I was a babe. I am indeed grateful he disobeyed the king's command. And what a sad price he paid! I revere his memory and am most happy to greet his fair daughter. Your older sister married my uncle Darius, I believe. But why should you come all this distance to see me? Could not your father send his present by another? It must be no ordinary mission brings you here,"

"You speak correctly, my lord. My father would make you a present of this hare."

Her servant stepped forward and delivered the hare to Cyrus. Afterward, at Dana's request, he retired outside the room.

Cyrus, in great bewilderment, asked:

"My good Dana, your dress tells me you have traveled the mountain road. You are disguised. Why did you risk such a long, dangerous journey merely to bring me a hare? Are there no hares in Persia?"

"My lord Cyrus, Persia has no hares like this hare. If you will open it you will find in it a message from my father, which you will perceive is of the greatest importance to you and Persia."

Taking a short sword from a near-by guard, Cyrus quickly cut open the hare and found the following message:

"Most noble Cyrus, Greeting: This is to inform you that within a fortnight, King Astyages, with three hundred thousand of the finest soldiers in Asia will invade Persia to crush your army and destroy you if possible. His forces are already mobilized at Ecbatana. [When he had read thus far, his face revealed the anxiety he felt.J This letter will further inform you that you have nothing to fear from this invasion. Your uncle Darius and myself, commanding between us two-thirds of the Median army, will revolt to you on the eve of the battle. Prepare to do as thou wilt with the king. After the battle, thou shalt be king of the Medes and Persians. May the gods always give thee success. Farewell, Harpagus."

In astonishment at the news, both good and bad, Cyrus stood and gazed at Dana. She felt as one does who has carried good news.

"My dear Dana, you were a brave girl to risk your life to bring me this word. Your father has certainly proved himself my friend. You two have perhaps saved me from defeat. I had not dreamed that my grandfather would do such a deed. He seems to be possessed with the idea that I must die. This is his second attempt to kill me. Well, I shall not die so soon! You shall be richly rewarded for this week's effort. Will you come and meet my mother, who will give you water and clothing? I will direct my guards to give your servant food and lodging."

We are already sufficiently acquainted with Mandane, to know how she would appreciate meeting Dana, and now the more so since she had risked her life to save Persia and their household. Since Dana's sister had married the younger brother of Mandane's mother, the two were kinfolk and there was much to talk about. There were so many questions to ask and answer. Cyrus did not see her again until dinner. Then she appeared quite a different person.

Although for the immediate present and future Cyrus would be a very busy man, having sent forth various orders to his officers, he spent the evening with his mother and Dana. He trusted the message this girl had brought and felt assured of the outcome of the battle, but he would not neglect to be prepared to meet any emergency which might arise. As Dana arose to retire for the night, she asked if she might be per. mitted to take her departure in the morning. She said she knew her father would be gravely anxious. Cyrus replied:

"My fair Dana, I will not permit you to leave on the morrow. Now that I have the message, your kind father would never forgive me were I to let you make this difficult journey again, when it is not really necessary." Smiling at his mother, he added, "I am holding you, Dana, as a hostage until after the battle, and I may even retain you for a long, long time. That I will know when I have had a talk with your father. Mother, see that Dana has the best, the very best. We all owe a great deal to her. When the military situation has cleared, I will have time to visit again. I will bid your servant return to your father in the morning with the simple message that all is well."

CYRUS mobilized his army of one hundred thousand men. He told them that three times their number were marching to invade Persia. They must fight for their very existence. Wise general that he was, he imbued them with the courage to fight the whole Median host. He did not inform them of the promised aid. He decided to meet the advancing army at the boundary line, and to prevent Astyages from devastating any part of Persia.

The first surprise to greet the king of the Medes was the report of the advance guards that Cyrus awaited him just across the border. With all his secrecy, then, the king had failed to keep Cyrus from being prepared for him. This caused him serious thought, but he dismissed it from his mind and prepared to advance to the conflict in the morning. He, however, did not feel as certain of his assured success as he had been prone to tell his soldiers.

The outcome of the battle you already know. Cyrus attacked the king's center. The Median right and left wings rested upon their weapons. Seeing this, the center broke and fled. Astyages was broken and had not long to meditate upon the unexpected action of his army. Some historians state that Astyages was captured and kept in close confinement by Cyrus until his death; others say that he was killed in the battle. We incline to the latter report. Whatever the result to him, he was forever eliminated from the future of Cyrus.

Astyages had reaped as he had sown. No one regretted his death or his downfall.

After the battle, in the royal pavilion, Cyrus met Darius and Harpagus for the first time. Cyrus was young, Darius was middle-aged, and Harpagus was somewhat older. The reception was very cordial. Cyrus thanked them most gratefully for their support. He addressed Darius as "My esteemed uncle." The crown of the dead king of the Medes was placed by Harpagus upon the head of Cyrus.

The oath of allegiance having been taken by officers and men, most of the night was spent in feasting and drinking. The men of both armies were glad the war was over. The command of the Median center, which had been under the direct command of the king, was given to Darius, and he became the second in authority under Cyrus. They drank again and again to the conquering arms of the united Medes and Persians.

When nearly dawn, all retired to their tents for a little sleep. Cyrus asked Harpagus to remain with him for a moment. We fancy the elder man had some small idea of what Cyrus wished.

"Venerable Prince, I sincerely thank you again for the part you played so successfully in this sudden overthrow of my grandfather. When the hour strikes, changes come quickly. We have both had our revenge. But just now I am not thinking of crowns, thrones, wars, wealth, or enemies. I am thinking of your charming daughter, Dana. I ask her for my wife. You have yet this greatest happiness to bestow upon your humble servant."

"My noble lord, you do me great honor to ask my daughter to be the queen of united Media and Persia. I could ask no greater pleasure than to see her become your bride. She has been, and is, my dearest treasure. With her my heart goes also."

"I am most grateful," replied Cyrus. "Tomorrow, before we return from camp to our homes, you will announce our betrothal. The good news will soon carry to the ends of the earth. The Medes will be glad their king is to marry a Median princess. She may accompany you on your return journey to Ecbatana, and at your convenience I will attend the wedding."

Darius received instructions from Cyrus to move into the palace of the old king of Media and to govern that state for him. The capital of the united provinces was removed to Persia.

When Harpagus returned with Cyrus to his home, Cambyses, Mandane, and Dana were waiting to welcome them with open arms. Already the news of the successful outcome had been sent them by messenger, but they had not heard of the betrothal announcement. They rather expected it; at least, Mandane did. She was certain she understood the mind of her son. She and Dana were already like mother and daughter.

As the two men stepped into the reception room, Cyrus took little Dana's hands in his, and looking into her glowing dark eyes, he asked, "Dana, how would you like to be queen of Media and Persia?"

"I would like it, if father would be willing."

"Your worthy father has told me that he is willing. Shall it be so, Harpagus?"

"Daughter, you are to return with me, and at a time ap-. pointed, Cyrus will conic for you, and the queen's crown will adorn your lovely head. You have earned it and are worthy of it. No happiness can he so great as ours."

Dana wept a long time on the shoulder of Mandane, but they were tears of joy, not of sorrow.

Attosa was delighted to move into the palace in Ecbatana. She was proud of her husband's success, and not the least jealous of her baby sister. She was happy because in Ecbatana she would be much nearer to her father and mother and Dana. Only a few months at most would she have Dana near her until Cyrus would come and claim her. She determined to improve the opportunity of seeing her as much as she could.

A few weeks later, in the work of reorganizing the affairs of state, Cyrus journeyed to Ecbatana. The populace unitedly gave him a glorious welcome. No other king of Media had ever been accorded such a welcome as King Cyrus. Darius was a loyal, faithful friend and a wise counselor. They planned together many things which had a bearing on their future.

"Soldiers are no good," said Cyrus, "unless they are kept fighting. To fail to prepare is to prepare to fail. I recently received a most insulting letter from King Nabonidus of Babylon. He orders me to appear before him to answer certain charges of revolution. Until I received his letter, I had not contemplated such a move as a campaign against Babylon, but now, by the gods, I will appear in the world's capital with my soldiers, and the old emperor will regret that he ever sent for me. Will you accompany me, Darius?"

"My king, I am subject to your orders. Much preparation is necessary before we undertake such a task."

"True; tonight let us be free and unburdened. You and Attosa join me in a visit to the home of Harpagus. I have often of late desired this pleasure."

And a pleasure it was, indeed, for all. They arrived sudden. ly, unannounced. Dana was quite overcome. Getting ready to be a queen of two nations was a big task. A rosy future was ahead for her, and her young heart overflowed with love and joy. Not a cloud crossed her sky. She planned daily for her wedding, but she was in no hurry to bid her father and mother farewell. On this visit, the date of the wedding was set for the day following the sixth full moon.

One other extraordinary occurrence brought great pleasure to Cyrus on this first official visit to Ecbatana. The last time he had entered it was under the guard of two soldiers and walking beside the chief shepherd. Cyrus had ordered all his public servants in for a reorganization and reappointment. When the chief shepherd appeared before him and was about to kneel at the feet of his new sovereign, Cyrus caught him and embraced him tenderly. It was a most touching scene. Everyone now knew what Mitradates was to Cyrus.

When asked what position in the new kingdom he would like best, Mitradates replied:

"May I be the chief shepherd of my lord's sheep?"

As the sparks fly upward, so the Jews seemed to be born for trouble. Their troubles did not begin nor end with the tyrants in Babylon, where Dan's traitorous act caused them great embarrassment. Every one passing in or out of the gate of the city was searched by the guards, sometimes in a very rough manner. Because of this unnecessary humiliation, many became bitter against their captors. Both sexes were forced to pass through a close scrutiny to see if they were carrying messages in or out of the city.

The news that Cyrus had united Media and Persia under one head brought gladness to the hearts of the captives. They knew there was hope although deliverance might not be actually experienced for a number of years. Their seventy years were not yet finished.

But the word that Cyrus had ascended the united throne of the Medes and Persians was viewed with alarm by Nabonidus. He thought of sending his army into Persia to ascertain whether Cyrus would remain loyal to Babylon or whether he was really planning a revolt. He finally decided by choosing to wait and see if the annual taxes came in as usual. Nevertheless, this bit of news caused the king to oppress the Jews even more rigorously. He professed not to believe that the writings of their prophets were from a supernatural source, yet the very fact that all the Jews believed the predictions caused him some concern.

In the midst of dire oppression, when, locally speaking, the cause of the Jews looked hopeless, young Ezra came to his father Mishael and said:

"Father, it will not be long now until Cyrus will enter Baby-ion in triumph, and the decree will be issued ending our captivity. Then we shall need to walk back that long tedious journey to Jerusalem. I feel impressed that I should go now, or in the very near future, to the beloved city and obtain a first-hand report of conditions as we shall find them there. Would you and mother permit me to take this burden upon me?"

"My son, you cannot go to Jerusalem. It is impossible. The roads in that direction are closely guarded against all Jews. We may travel in any other direction but that."

"I have a plan, father. Paphros, the Egyptian merchant we deal with, is sending his caravan into Egypt soon, and I am certain he will permit me to go as a camel driver. I know he likes us, and when I explain to him my desires, I am certain he will not refuse. I have associated with his sons so much that I already know a little of the Egyptian language, and if I dress in their costume, I shall be able to pass the guards without any difficulty."

"I will counsel with Esther. If your mother sees light in your going, I am sure all the Jews would welcome a report of conditions in the fatherland from other than the gentiles who are merely passing through. If Providence opens the way, perhaps you should go."

With many prayers and blessings his parents permitted him to go. They felt some divine wisdom was leading their son in this move, or he would not undertake such a mission. It would be much easier for a beardless youth to get through than for one older in years. The trustful spirit of Ezra may be realized by noting a statement concerning him, made while taking a later trip with a company of returning captives. Ezra made a number of round trips from Babylon to Jerusalem. On this later journey, fearing some danger might overtake them, he acted upon this procedure:

"I proclaimed a fast there at the River Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek of Him a right way for us, and for our little ones, and for all our substance.

"For I was ashamed to require of the king a hand of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way: because we had spoken unto the king saying, The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek Him; but His power and His wrath is against them that forsake Him.

"So we fasted and besought our God for this, and He was entreated of us." Ezra 8:2l-23.

His was a long, weary journey. We are not so much concerned with Ezra's experiences going and returning. All the Jews in Babylon were deeply interested in the report he would bring back. After several months had elapsed, he re-entered Babylon with the camel caravan, and the Jews decided to hold a secret meeting, even at some risk, to hear from the lips of young Ezra himself of the existing conditions in the land they had been forced to leave. All the Babylonians were busy preparing for the annual feast of Tammuz, and because of this the Jewish leaders believed it was comparatively safe to call a late meeting at Rabbi Hermon's house. They planned to spend the remainder of the night together, not returning home until the sun was up. Then they expected to leave the house singly or in pairs to allay suspicion.

Notices were sent by carrier to those expected to attend. That afternoon Abed visited Iris, and confided to her the good news, not knowing that Dan would carry the word soon after to the king. That night spies were set to watch the Rabbi's home, and when they reported the meeting in progress, soldiers suddenly broke in upon them and arrested them all.

The next day they were fined heavily, cautioned never to hold another meeting, and then all except Rabbi Hermon were released. The king retained him a prisoner, because the gathering was held at his house, and he was determined to make of the Rabbi an example.

But that night, in the cold, damp prison room, Ezra gave the report he had intended to render before they were arrested. What the prison guard, who was listening, thought, when he heard that Ezra had been in Jerusalem, we do not know, but we do know that it was reported. His detailed report was a gloomy one given under equally gloomy conditions. As his brethren listened to his story of their wrecked and burned city, of the untilled land, of the poverty of the few inhabitants, of the broken down temple which they loved, and, not knowing what might happen to them all the day following, with their loved ones anxious about them at home, the darkness of the prison almost crept into their hearts. But they suddenly heard the voice of Rabbi Hermon in prayer, and at the conclusion of his earnest petition, Heaven's benediction rested in peace upon the imprisoned Hebrews.
 
 

THE pagan rites of the ancients were horrible and disgusting. We do not wish to taint the minds of our readers with any detailed, lengthy recital of them. Probably none were more sensual, lascivious, and corrupt than the rites celebrated during the feast of Tammuz. All was done in the name of religion, if the worship of false deities may be termed such.

During the feast, married women of Babylon were expected to repair to the temple of Bel and take their seats along the aisle of pillars. Each must remain there until one of the men who were constantly passing by, if pleased with her, would toss her a piece of money, saying, "May the goddess Mylitta prosper thee." This money she must donate to the service of the temple, placing it in one of the iron chests which were everywhere. Then she must accompany the man who tossed her the coin to one of the many chambers which surrounded the temple. Having performed this so-called religious duty, she could return home and resume her normal life. This was the pagan idea of raising money for the temple service. No woman was considered a faithful worshipper of Be! unless at least once during her lifetime, she had gone to his temple and consorted with a stranger. An ill-looking woman often had to wait for a long time for some man to toss her a piece of money. Year by year they would be seen at the temple during the period of the feast. Those who were good-looking, if so inclined, and were ardent worshippers, went year by year.

During the feast each day had its special program. Certain prisoners were fed to wild beasts. Children were burned to the sound of music. King Nabonidus desired to make an unusual offering to Bel during the ensuing feast. A few days before it was due, he caused to be posted in different parts of the city this very surprising notice:

"Dwellers in Babylon, Greeting: Bel must be appeased by a burnt offering. During the coming great feast of Tammuz, a rebel Jew will be cooked in hot oil. Let the multitude rejoice with Bel over the sacrifice."

The notice brought terror to the heart of every earnest Jew. Their thoughts instantly reverted to the venerable Rabbi, who, since the arrest at the time of the secret meeting, had been confined in the city prison. Was he to be the king's sacrifice? Prayers ascended from every loyal worshipper of the Most High in behalf of His aged servant. And to pray was all they could do. His family were very anxious, yet trustful.

On the day appointed for the sacrifice, now feeling certain that Rabbi Hermon was to be the victim, his children and a few very close friends, braved the sneers of the crowd and went to the court of the temple. It might be that this occasion would give them their last look at his kingly but kindly face.

On a raised platform of masonry was a huge brass cauldron about four feet in height. This was filled nearly full of oil. Under it a slow fire was kindled and the oil gradually heated to the boiling point. The sacrificial victim was made to stand in the oil when it was cold, and for the hour or more while it was heating, endure the curses and looks of the pagan worshippers.

Rabbi Hermon, stripped of his clothing down to a loin cloth, was led by the king's soldiers through the assembled thousands to the raised altar. As he in passing recognized one of his friends or loved ones, he would raise his arm toward heaven, smile, and pass on. Although their hearts were breaking, the Jewish observers dared not weep. They all noticed the calm expression of peace which rested upon his countenance. He seemed fearless and unconcerned. He had been a faithful shepherd, and now, if heaven willed it, he was ready to die.

He even assisted the soldiers by climbing himself into the cauldron. This was very unusual. On the few former occasions when this rite was celebrated, the soldiers had to bind their victim and then lift him into the cauldron. At a long blast of the trumpets, a soldier put a coal to the fire-wood, and smoke soon enveloped the altar. Servants fanned the smoke away until the fire was well burning, when there was less. Their objective was to make their victim linger and suffer long.

An hour passed. The oil must be near boiling now. But what does the throng see and hear? Rabbi Hermon's face is wreathed in smiles, and his voice, strong and clear, is chanting one of David's psalms. Other minutes pass and still he sings. Another hour goes by and the oil is bubbling over the lips of the cauldron. The man of God is singing yeti Nabonidus, his wise men, and his priests were confounded and withdrew. This was a signal for others to begin to retire, and ere long only a handful of Jews remained in the temple court. The disbanded audience had something to talk about for many days to come. The Lion of the tribe of Judah had prevailed, and again His enemies had failed of their evil purpose. The fire burned down and went out, and amid tears of gratitude, his adoring children assisted their father from the dread cauldron. Putting a robe over his shoulders, they returned in triumph with rejoicing hearts to his home.

The Babylonians had received one more lesson in the dealings of God with men. But very few opened their hearts to the truth. They refused to learn their lesson. Nabonidus, like Pharaoh of old, hardened his heart, and issued a statement that Bel would not receive a Jew as a burnt offering. Nevertheless, he manifested thereafter a more lenient attitude toward the captive people.

A great praise service was held that night at the home of the aged Rabbi, and no Babylonian molested them.

Reports that came to Nabonidus of the reorganization in Media-Persia disturbed him much. Hearing also of other vassal states that were in revolt, he prepared to lead forth his army in an endeavor to subdue them. But the Babylonian army no longer was able to strike fear to its foes. Jeremiah had prophesied that at the end of the seventy years of Jewish captivity, the kingdom of Babylon would crumble. That time was now not far away.

Before he left the city, he called his son Belshazzar before him and made him king jointly with himself. As the second ruler, Belshazzar remained in the city while his father carried on his warfare against his enemies on the outside. We know that at the time of the fall of Babylon, Nabonidus was not in the city, and for the remainder of this narrative, we almost forget that such a man existed.

Belshazzar was a mere youth when kingly honors were conferred upon him. In character he was even more dissolute and cruel than his father. He completed the ruin of the wonderful golden kingdom which had been built by his grandfather Nebuchadnezzar. Those who depend for what they have and are upon their ancestors, are like potatoes -- the best part of them is under the ground. He who lives a good, noble life does not need to depend upon his ancestors.

Like kittens which, if drowned when only a few days old before their eyes open naturally, will have their eyes open after they are dead, so some people get their eyes open too late. Thus it was with Belshazzar. Those who are addicted to vice, as a rule care little for advice. Conscience is not like a bore, if you snub it a few times, after that it won't bother you. Belshazzar early went beyond the bounds of God's mercy. He led the nation down grade as fast as he knew how to do it.

It is the custom of the oriental to build and then fail to keep in repair. Much money and strength will be expended in the erection of fine buildings, but they are left to run down from the day they are completed. Soon they must be rebuilt or left to crumble and decay. The splendid buildings erected by Nebuchadnezzar went after that fashion.

Belshazzar was well acquainted with Jehovah's dealings with both his father and grandfather, but failing to respond to the impressions of right, he finally became dead to the voice of conscience. God's Spirit will not always strive with man. There comes a time, if His Spirit's wooing invitation is refused and resisted, beyond which one no longer hears His pleading voice. In such condition, one may believe wrong is right. Young Belshazzar had grown to hate the choice of right, and therefore he hated the Jews. He went even to greater lengths than his father in treating them in a shameful manner.

Of a covetous spirit, he was not satisfied with his abundant personal wealth. This he wasted along with the government revenue, in every form of riotous living. When he needed more property, he took it. On the accusation of some who had lost money years previously, when Abed had won in the long race, old Abram, the money lender who had backed the Jew and won two thousand talents, was taken and killed and his property confiscated. The Jews mourned for him, for in spite of his miserly instincts, he was good at heart, and he did much for those whom he liked.

Young Belshazzar surrounded himself with many concubines. He pleased the people by games and by keeping up the temple service. He pleased his lords by grand feasts and royal gifts. The years preceding a nation's downfall are usually marked by a low moral plane, with most of the wealth in the hands of a few, who care nothing for the multitude and even less for the state. They think only of themselves, their families, their pleasures, and the present.

The sons of Abraham pitied the young king more than they censured him. A long time before Belshazzar died, they read the writing on the wall. They knew from their study of the revealed word, that Babylon's days were numbered. From the same word, they knew that their days for rejoicing were not far away. Such hope gave them courage and patience during their darkest days.

Pity the man who does not have the consolation to be found in the Scriptures and in acquaintance with God. "Acquaint now, thyself with Him and be at peace." The believing Jews in Babylon had peace in their hearts when turmoil and strife were all about them.

We have dwelt much on the trials and hardships of the Hebrew captives, that all might better appreciate how they felt when their deliverer really appeared. They were not to be disappointed in their hopes. Hope is made up of equal parts of expectation and desire. They expected Cyrus to come and they certainly desired his coming. He came. God always returns by the way of His promises. He always answers those who rely whole-heartedly upon His word.

One lesson stands out above others in the story of the seventy years' captivity. Because one meets with difficulties, trials, and discouragements, is no evidence that one is not a child of God. In the school of character there are many lessons for each individual to master.

About this time Abed, on the advice of his elders, left Babylon to visit Persia. They desired all the firsthand information that could be obtained about the rise and position of Cyrus.
 

THROUGHOUT the years, Daniel, the servant of God, suffered with his people, yet he always revealed a cheerful, confident spirit. Some one has said that today religion with many is the spare wheel instead of the steering wheel. But Daniel was constant in his service. Come good or come ill, he remained steadfast. Many, like the Babylonians, prefer a prosperous error rather than an afflicted truth. Among the Jews in the capital were many like children who will not study their lessons unless the teacher constantly applies the rod. Daniel considered it a terrible thing for a man to hold a lamp for others and yet walk in darkness himself. He was what he taught others. A cracked reputation, like broken crockery, may be mended, but people will always keep their eyes on tile place where the break was. If a doctor makes a mistake, he can bury it. If a lawyer makes a mistake, he can ask for a new trial. But if a preacher makes a mistake, well, it is just too bad! If you dwell in the open tent of shame, most people will not walk backward, like modest Shem and Japheth, to cover your nakedness, but will walk forward, like cursed Ham, to publish it to the world.

To enlighten and encourage the waiting captives, during the first year of Belshazzar's reign, and again in his third year, Daniel was given an inspired vision. These he records in his book. Both visions had some points in common, but each had also its special message. As Daniel related them to the little company in Rabbi Hermon's house, giving the correct interpretation, so far as it was revealed to him, his hearers were greatly elevated in spirit. These visions were another evidence to them that God was with them and not unmindful of them even in their affliction. How they longed, many of them, to get back to Jerusalem, where they could again carry on their regular services in the sacred temple.

We will add here only the part of the visions which applies to the time of which we are writing. The remainder of both visions continues on down over the centuries even to our own day.

In the first vision, the four great universal kingdoms of earth, beginning with Babylon, were represented to Daniel by four wild beasts. The first beast was like a lion and represented Babylon. The second was a bear, representing Media-Persia. The third was a leopard, representing Greece. And the fourth, a great iron, nondescript beast, represented the iron monarchy of Rome, the last universal kingdom.

In the second vision Daniel was in Shushan, the eastern capital of the empire. Since, when he saw this vision, the Babylonian Empire was about to pass off the stage, the second vision begins, not with Babylon, but with Media-Persia, which was represented as a ram. That this is certain, we may know positively from a statement by the angel Gabriel, who was commanded by One higher in authority, to make Daniel understand the vision. Gabriel said: "The ram which thou sawest having the two horns, are the kingdoms of Media and Persia." And then he adds, "The rough he-goat [which in the vision defeated the ram] is the kingdom of Greece; and the great horn that is between his eyes is the first king," which we know was Alexander the Great.

Daniel was given these two visions two years apart, to corroborate the message sent them from Jerusalem by Jeremiah, that at the end of the seventy years, God would punish the king of Babylon, and that the city would eventually become a perpetual desolation.

There is a point or two in the vision which we must notice,--some particulars about the ram, which Gabriel said represented Media-Persia. Note carefully what Daniel saw:

"I lifted up mine eyes and saw, and behold, there stood before the river a ram which had two horns: and the two horns were high; but one was higher than the other, and the higher came up last." Daniel 8:3.

Here was divine evidence that the two small united provinces east of Babylon, which in the time of Daniel's vision were not yet a world power, would ultimately reach the pinnacle of greatness. Thus the Jews in Babylon were again assured that the ram would become great and would surely take the capital city. We have already learned how the Persian horn, which became the higher, came up last. The Jews were seeing this part of the vision fulfilled before their eyes. First, they had seen Media the stronger. Then Persia, under Cyrus, arose and became the stronger, but both united into one head. This phase of the vision was to have a yet larger fulfilment after the Medes and Persians had taken Babylon. Darius the Mede first sat upon the throne of Babylon, after its overthrow, but he died in two years, and then Cyrus the Persian took the throne unto himself. Thus again, in so far as Babylon was concerned, the higher came up last.

Daniel, in his vision, saw the successful advance of Media-Persia to world empire, for he relates of the ram in verse four:

"I saw the ram pushing westward, and northward, and southward; so that no beasts (kingdoms) might stand before him, neither was there any that could deliver out of his hand, but he did according to his will and became great."

In this narrative we shall speak only of Cyrus pushing northward to Lydia, and westward to Babylon. The Persian adventures to the southward into Egypt we will not enumerate. It is our desire to bring out only the highlights in the career of Cyrus, which prove, beyond any shadow of doubt, the inspiration of Bible prophecy.

We cannot fully appreciate the effect these visions had upon the weary, worn companions of Daniel. That God had again visited them near the end of the seventy years, lifted them to a high level of courage and faith. Any one who will study these same visions, in the light of present day events, will receive a great blessing. Prophecy is God writing historyin advance, or in other words, history is the unrolled scroll of prophecy.

God alone knows the future. He has forewarned us in this book of Daniel of certain vital events to occur in this our day. With unerring accuracy, He has mapped out the future, and man cannot alter His purpose.

"And so we go on not knowing all;

We would not if we might.

We would rather walk with God in the dark,

Than go alone in the light.

We would rather walk with Him by faith,

Than walk alone by sight."

Abed was away from Babylon nearly three months. The report he brought back with him was of no little comfort to the anxious ones in the capital. As we are already aware of what transpired in Persia, we will not detail his remarks. On returning to his place of abode he found a number of letters awaiting him. One of them gave him the usual pleasure, but this time a little more pleasure than ever before.

"Dear, dear Abed: It seems so long since you went away to Persia. Come over as soon as you return. At last I have settled the great question of my life. I want so much to tell you of my new experience and purpose. Anxiously awaiting your return, and assuring you I pray daily for your safety, I am, Your affectionate Iris."

Both Abed and Iris were getting on in years. Theirs had been a long, sincere friendship. When one was asked the secret of his happy life, he replied: "I have a friend." True friends are to be cherished for they are precious. One should keep a little cemetery in which to bury the failings of one's friends. The man who never puts in an honest day's work on friendship's railroad, has no reason to expect men will build a sidetrack to his door. Selfish people may have acquaintances but not friends. With some people you invest an evening; with others, you spend it.

For weeks Iris had listened to every footfall and had watched the approach to the door almost constantly, each time hoping for some word from Abed, or that he would come. The day he returned and read her letter, she did not listen or look in vain. She saw him approaching and met him at the entrance. She had good news for him of an experience that was heartfelt. She was grateful that his long journey had been taken in safety.

"Iris, you look happier than I have ever seen you."

"I am happier. I never knew before that life could be so worthwhile. Abed, for six weeks now, I have been a worshipper of your Jehovah God. Oh, there is something about knowing your God that is real, something that changes one's life, something that makes me happy because I am conscious I am doing right. Aren't you glad that at last my eyes have been opened and that I am forever through with Bel, Tammuz, and all the foolish nonsense of dumb deities?"

"Iris, I have prayed for this. Did I need to go away to have you come to this decision? Surely, I know you well enough to know you did not change for my sake only."

"No, Abed, your being away is not altogether responsible for the change, although I have had more time for thought.

Just thinking led me to this decision. As I view it, six things finally influenced me to choose the minority instead of the majority, the true instead of the false, tribulation with the despised instead of popularity with the crowd, but, thank God, eternal joy instead of defeat, loss and punishment."

"Nothing could interest me more than to listen while you relate those six influences which led you to yield your life to the service of your heavenly Father. This time I will sit here quietly while you do all the talking. Your new found experience must mean something to you, when you speak of it first, even before you ask concerning my trip."

"O Abed, I know your trip was all a grand success. You are back safely and sometime you must tell me all you know about Cyrus. But, truly, the change I have made is something great to me in the effect it is having upon my individual life. To worship God is as far removed from idol worship as is light from darkness. Now I am filled with a certain inward joy, and that is what you saw reflected in my face. No one with a sour face has a sweet religion. True religion is life at its finest and happiest and best. Length of face does not measure strength of grace, and grace does not grow in gloom. Religion is our relationship to the divine, and since the only way to keep religion sweet is to keep itin circulation, I will tell you what finally forced me, in honesty to myself, to make the great decision. We are not loyal to God if we have more light than we use or more truth than we practice. My religion will be valuable just according to how much of myself I invest in it.

"When I was a very little girl, I heard my people talking of certain strange events in the life of King Nebuchadnezzar. Mother was alive then and she told me. I never have mentioned it to you, but you were one of the young men the king threw into the furnace, I believe. Your God sent a messenger and saved you all. That experience made a profound impression upon my young mind, but it was more or less forgotten in the life our people live. Nevertheless, your deliverance has always had a bearing upon my life. You know there are people who are not great actors, nor fine speakers, but wonderful influences. To think my friend Abed once stood in furious fire beside a visible supernatural being, holy and bright, who went with you into the furnace, and then disappeared as soon as the king called you out, has always given me a greater respect for your friendship.

"And then the day you won the race at the royal games,-- that, too, has had itsinfluence over me. I have never been able to forget it. All the other contestants made their offering and burned their incense to Bel, but apparently he neither heard nor saw them. A despised Jew, who made no offering and burned no incense, carried off the crown. I said in my heart that day that Bel was no god, and I almost feared that your God was real and true. I did not wish to own Him then, although I think I was convinced.

"I have watched your loyal Jews. You, yourself, were years in prison unjustly, and yet you never lost your patience, your hope, your smile, or your trust. I often said to myself, there must be something to a God who can comfort and hold, even under such experiences as you and many others have passed through.

"I was present that day when the fire under the brass cauldron burned out and Rabbi Hermon was still smiling and singing psalms. Not the least harm came to him. I said: 'Here is the finger of God.' None of our gods ever saved like that. I knew from that hour that I loved your God, who is now my God, but even yet I did not openly confess Him. I actually prayed that Rabbi Hermon would be saved. He is such a good man.

"l became, naturally, very much interested in reading the scrolls you left me, the writings of the prophets.I made Dan, our butler, read them over and over again to me. The more I heard, the more convinced I became of the reality of your worship, and the more miserable I became, because I saw that my life was almost entirely out of harmony with His revealed will.

"And the knowledge of my need led me to cry out one day to your God for mercy and pardon. I prayed aloud to Him as you and Daniel, and I suppose all good Jews, do. I felt within the assurance that I was heard and my request granted. I know He loves me, and I feel certain He has some great plan, whereby He can justly pardon my sin and save me to Himself. I know that if I do not do what I know, some clay I will not know what to do.

"Now that you have returned, I desire to attend some of your meetings, and there publicly acknowledge my Maker and my King. I am through forever with all our pagan ways, as you always termed them. I expect to meet some persecution, but for that I do not care. A clear conviction that one is doing right outweighs everything else. I can now understand many of the questions I have asked you during months past. Religion must be of the heart as well as of the head. It can be experienced where it cannot be explained. O, Abed, I am so happy!"

"My dear Iris, in behalf of my people, I welcome you. I, too, am happier this hour than I have ever been before. May God guide you in all you do."
 
 

KING CYRUS did not call upon Dana again until he came to take her, a bride, to his own home. Where the groom was a high ruler, the custom was for his family to send the bride-to-be her wedding gown. For months Mandane had searched all of the known world to get the very best for Dana. When she was packing the gifts to send to Ecbatana, Cyrus yielded to his inclination and placed a letter at the bottom of the box.

This package was opened with the utmost anticipation by the household of Harpagus. The crown jewels, placed on top and so viewed first, had been purchased in Babylon. The crown itself had been made in Tyre. Since Dana was to be queen of a dual kingdom, Cyrus was not satisfied to have her wear only the old Median crown. The young girl sat with it in her lap and admired it with loving eves. Not once did she attempt to place iton her head, but she handled it with almost reverent attention. It must have cost a king's ransom. Cyrus, himself, after the ceremony was over, would place it on her brow. She had no right to wear it yet. The king had secretly instructed one of his Persian merchants to procure the precious stones and have the crown made for Dana. It was her crown; none other had ever worn it, or ever would wear it.

The material for her gold lace wedding gown came from India; the perfume, from Egypt. A string of pearls, rings of rare beauty, bracelets for her arms and ankles, and a number of other things came out of that box. One by one they were unpacked and placed safely away for the coming occasion. The thought that but a few days intervened until she could wear them, thrilled her whole body.

When she thought everything was out of the box, she came quite unexpectedly upon the sealed letter addressed to herself. She opened it with nervous fingers. It must contain good news for it came in the box of all boxes. Strange that she should be more affected by the letter than by the other contents of the box, wonderful as they were! Why? A letter is almost a living thing. It can mean so much. Who has not been thrilled through and through by a few words on a piece of paper? Some words burn. A letter reveals the character and the feelings of the writer. Cyrus letter was written upon parchment. She read:

"My own Dana: Only a few more days and I shall again look into your loving eyes and hold you for the first time in my strong arms. You are the fairest woman on earth. The gods were very kind to me to give me you. I will arrive the evening the moon becomes full. Father and mother will doubtless precede me a few days. I need only you to make my cup of happiness full to overflowing. Accept these tokens of my love. I trust they please you. Believe me, I have done my very best. You deserve even more. Greet your parents for me. Until the happy day arrives, adieu. Cyrus."

How many times she read her letter she would never admit. By day she carried it in her bosom over her heart. At night she put it under her pillow. It certainly added its share of delight to her already rapturous life.

Harpagus and his wife were more than busy during those days of preparation. In consultation with Darius and Attosa, they finally decided upon a simple home wedding. Only a few special guests were to be invited. After the ceremony they would all march in procession to the palace of Darius, formerly the home of King Astyages, and there Cyrus would crown his bride queen of the united country. There the thousand and more guests would feast together. Word to this effect was scattered over the land and, as they expected, throngs of the common people crowded the line of march.

At the family wedding the guests of honor were not Cambyses and Mandane, not Darius and Attosa, but old Mitradates and his wife. Cyrus had so wished it,and all conceded it was a kind act on his part. The old shepherd and his humble wife never forgot the honor given them at the wedding of Cyrus and Dana. They told of itin their peasant hut to the end of their days. They would run out of adjectives trying to describe how perfect Cyrus was, and how divinely beautiful Dana looked in her wedding gown.

Cyrus was naturally of a very affectionate disposition. He had a great deal of sentiment. No man is worth much without it, but to have too much is suicidal. When Cyrus became attached to anything, man or beast, he felt deeply. It is related of him that on one of his later military expeditions, while crossing a swollen river, his beautiful snow-white horse was drowned. Cyrus felt his loss so keenly that he cursed the river, saying, "I will make you so tame a woman can cross over you and not get her knees wet." He kept his army more than a year digging one hundred and eighty wide ditches on both sides of the river, making it so shallow a child could wade it. All this effort because of his great regard for his horse!

A few days before the date appointed for the wedding, Cambyses and Mandane arrived at the home of Harpagus. It was the first time they had visited Ecbatana since that fateful day when they left their babe to the murderous care of Astyages. How different their feelings now as they rode proudly into the city, --a city ruled over by their own son, and waiting to give them and him great honor. A crowd greeted them and scattered flowers on the road side for Mandane. After all, she was a Median princess.

At the home of Harpagus they were made as welcome as the joyful circumstances demanded. Dana kissed Mandane most affectionately. The two mothers felt at once acquainted. Next to her own mother Dana loved Mandane more than any other woman she had ever known. Besides her mother, Mandane, and Attosa, Dana had the usual number of the loveliest maidens in Ecbatana to act as her bridesmaids.

The night before the wedding day, just as the round moon rose over the distant highlands, Cyrus in his chariot drawn by four Arabians, drove up to the castle gate. He had arrived earlier in the day at Ecbatana and had gone directly to the home of Darius. There he bathed and made himself more presentable. In spite of the fact that he did not wish his presence known in the city that afternoon, many hailed him as their king.

Dressed in a scarlet robe he descended from his chariot to be embraced by Harpagus. A small hand waved from a latticed window above. Dana had been watching for his arrival. Cyrus waved back his greeting. Beyond this they did not meet until the next day, when, at high noon, they were married. The ceremony was very similar to that of Cambyses and Mandane, related in an earlier chapter.

As they marched to the palace of Darius, Dana standing beside Cyrus in his chariot, the whole population seemed bent on doing them honor. The bride was their own Dana, and Cyrus was their king. They cheered the chief shepherd, also. By this act of treating Mitradates kindly, Cyrus endeared himself to the people. In later years Dana received even higher honors, but she always said, even after she had borne Cyrus two sons and three daughters, that the happiest moment of her life was the moment she appeared before the social class of Media on the day of her wedding and knelt while her king-husband crowned her queen of the Medes and Persians. Dear little Dana! One could not help loving her.

A feast of good things followed. At the high table Cambyses related how some thirty years before he had been seated at the same table and had promised King Astyages that Mandane would return to Ecbatana to give birth to her first-born. What a happy ending to a sad beginning! They did not yet know that the great King above had spoken concerning Cyrus, and none could change His word.

And Harpagus, try as he would, could not keep from his mind the day he sat at the kings feast and ate the special food Astyages had prepared for him. He could never bring back his son, but he was thankful for his two charming daughters who sat at the high table opposite.

After a few gladsome months Cyrus began in earnest to train his united armies for wine conquest. Some unseen power was impelling him onward. 1-le was moved by more than ambition. He had a quarrel with Nabonidus, and he needed the wealth of Croesus. His army was now so strong and well equipped that the Babylonians dared not risk an encounter with him and would not, unless forced to do so. Nabonidus wisely decided to leave him alone. But he kept his army between him and Babylon in case Cyrus should decide suddenly to march in that direction.

Within the city Belshazzar spent his time in one round of gaiety after another. The Jewish leaders believed the time for action had arrived. They secretly appointed another meeting. Only a limited number were invited, and the home of Melzar and Iris was chosen instead of the usual meeting place.

Having grown comparatively wealthy by his traitorous acts, Dan had become more and more insolent, until at last he had been discharged. He especially disliked reading the Hebrew writings to Iris and made that occasion a day of sorrow for her. All were glad when he was gone. He no longer was there to spy upon them and report their proceedings to the king. The government had given him a small office in the palace as a reward for his loyalty to the Babylonians.

The object of this meeting was to plan definitely for their future, for the time when the city of Babylon would be besieged by the armies of Cyrus. A store of food must be provided, and a means of communication with the Persians was to be decided upon. They knew they must do all within their power to place themselves in a right light before Cyrus. They did not wish to be harmed or perish when the attacking army would enter the city. They knew that when a city was taken after a long siege, the invading army always forcibly took their desire in women, money, and loot of all sorts. Many of the Hebrews still recalled with sorrow the fall of Jerusalem. They believed in the written word of the prophets, but that did not release them from doing all within their power to protect themselves. God has not promised to do for us that which we can do for ourselves.

And all this was done on simple faith. True, they had some evidence that they were right. Cyrus had come to the front as had been predicted of him, and he had a splendid army of the finest troops. He had thus far been victorious in all his battles. Rumor said that he would attack Babylon, but as yet he had not even begun to march that way. They had only the word of the living God to stand on. From it they knew that Cyrus would ere long stand without the walls of Babylon. Their seventy years had almost expired. They believed His word and acted accordingly. Under such leaders as Daniel, Rabbi Hermon, and his family, they felt as assured that deliverance would come as if it had arrived already. They no longer doubted. Heaven is pleased when we act upon faith in the word of God.

During the evenings discussion, it became more and more evident that a Jew could not get in touch with Cyrus after he declared his intention to attack Babylon. But they thought it was imperative that some one relate to him the position the Jews were taking in the city. Then Providence provided a way. A voice from the rear spoke:

"I am only a woman, but I can do, perhaps, what a man could not do. Besides, I am a Chaldean by birth, and because of this, 1 can do the work needed to be done much more easily than could one of your nation. I know all your plans and your message. I intend to go with you when you return to Jerusa1cm, the Holy City. I am anxious to help. I believe God will fulfil His word. I am one with you. I offer myself as your representative to Cyrus. God will help me if you see wisdom in honoring me with the responsibility."

"God bless you, Iris," said Rabbi Hermon.

All were agreed that Iris was the one to be their go-between. Each and all felt grateful for the help offered them in their need. That she would perhaps meet with danger was known to all. They had implicit confidence in her ability and believed she would do her best. A number were appointed to act with her in preparing a statement for Cyrus. Abed was one chosen. This committee was responsible for preparing a statement setting forth the Jews position, and Iris was to see that it was delivered into the hands of Cyrus. They knew that such a declaration would have a great bearing on the treatment they would receive when the king entered the city.

The meeting adjourned with a sense of satisfaction filling every heart. They praised the Most High for what they very confidently expected to witness in the not far distant future. They knew there were yet hardships ahead for them, but their long course of training had prepared them for the days of siege.

Napoleon said he defeated the Austrians because they did not know the value of ten minutes. Cyrus, before Napoleons day, was also that kind of leader. He won his victories because he was always a step ahead of his enemies in the execution of his plans.

Cyrus was a natural leader of men. By a leader we mean one who knows where he is going, knows how to keep ahead, and knows how to get others to follow. In Darius and Harpagus, he had two very able associates, two true friends and counselors. Harpagus, as we have learned already, was father-in-law to both the other men.

The Persians were not the aggressors in their first big war. When the old king, Astyages of Media, married the Lydian princess, he entered into a secret treaty with the king of Lydia. When Croesus heard that Cyrus had conquered Media and killed Astyages, he felt bound by his treaty-oath to revenge the death of the king of Media. The fact that the Lydian princess was living in rather humble quarters in Ecbatana, was another reason why Croesus led his army toward Persia.

Croesus had also treaty relations with Babylon, Sparta, and Egypt. Feeling certain he could defeat Cyrus without their help, he took no counsel of his allies, but made careful preparation for aggressive warfare, and then declared war against Persia. Croesus, the richest man in the ancient world, did not know that he had to reckon with a higher power than Cyrus when he made his messengers inquire for him of the Greek god Apollo at Delphi. They asked the god if Croesus would be prospered in his anticipated war with Cyrus. The answer came, "If Croesus goes to war with Cyrus he will destroy a great kingdom." Vain, rich, powerful Croesus interpreted the message to mean that he would destroy Persia. He did destroy a great kingdom, --his own Lydia, but not Persia. The heathen priests of Delphi were adepts at giving evasive replies.

A fierce battle was fought at Pteria. Both sides lost heavily, but the issue was so near a draw that Croesus did not dare renew the battle in the morning and ordered his army to retreat to Sardis. Knowing that Cyrus had lost many men, he never imagined that the young Persian would follow him. Croesus had scarcely time after entering the capital to send off messengers to Babylon and Sparta for help, before word came to him that Cyrus was not far from the gates of Sardis.

The Lydians went forth to give battle, relying on their additional horsemen to win the day. Their horse soldiers were the finest of that age and the fear of every opposing army. The timely counsel of Harpagus saved the day for Cyrus and changed the battle result from defeat to victory. The Persians had no horsemen, therefore Harpagus advised Cyrus to unload his camel trains of the war luggage quickly, place soldiers upon them, and send them in advance to meet the horsemen of Croesus. A horse detests the smell of a camel. As the two armies drew close together, the Lydian horses took fright at the camels and broke and ran back to the city, entirely out of control. Their riders descended to fight upon the ground, but were defeated by Cyrus, and those who escaped shut themselves up in the city. Babylon and Sparta both hastened aid to Sardis, but before the help arrived Cyrus had the city and Croesus was a prisoner.

Cyrus offered a reward to the first of his soldiers who would get inside the walls. Part of the defense wall of Sardis was a great rock. Thinking that position was safe from attack, Croesus left it without many men to guard it. A Persian by the name of Hyroeodes, watching the high cliff, saw a Lydian soldier descend it part way to regain a fallen helmet. To himself, he said, "Where that man can go, I can." Calling a company to follow him, they were first up the rock, and surprising the guards, made way for the army of Cyrus to enter the city.

Croesus had two sons. One had been killed in an unfortunate accident by a man the king had befriended. The son left was deaf and dumb. Cyrus had commanded his officers to take Croesus alive if possible. He, with his dumb son, was alone in the courtyard of his palace when soldiers of Cyrus broke in.

Not knowing who the two were, one of the soldiers was about to strike Croesus down, and he, caring little to live after meeting with such a sad defeat, said nothing. But his dumb son, in fright, cried out, "What, kill Croesus?" The soldier put down his sword and took father and son prisoners. It is said that ever after the son had the gift of speech.

Many years before, in speaking about Cyrus, God, through the prophet Isaiah, had said: "I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places." Isaiah 45:3. The wealth of Croesus made Cyrus very rich. His men shared in the loot of Sardis, but one-tenth of all they obtained, they gave to their king.

Some one has written that money is that which will purchase everything save happiness and get one into any place except heaven. Emerson said that the worst thing about money is that it costs too much. The Philosopher Solon, from Athens, once visited Croesus in Sardis. The wealthy ruler took great delight in showing him his storehouse of gold and money. Then he asked the renowned Greek who was the happiest man upon earth, thinking, of course, Solon would name Croesus. To his discomfiture, the philosopher named two others and neither had much property nor were rich in precious metal. Some of the most unhappy folk in our world today are men and women with more money than they know what to do with.

It has been said that happiness is made of so many pieces that there is always one missing. Happiness is never found by searching for it. Like boys chasing butterflies, happiness is always just out of reach. It does not consist in a fine house, fine furniture, a sixteen cylinder car, or a lot of money. In many a palace dwell unhappy hearts. All of the things enumerated may conduce to happiness, but the poor man has access to happiness as well as the rich.
 

Happiness consists in contentment, in having a clear conscience. It will be found in acting in an unselfish manner toward others. You cannot pour the perfume of happiness upon others without getting a few drops on yourself. Victor Hugo has well written: "The supreme happiness of life is the conviction of being loved for yourself, or, more correctly, being loved in spite of yourself."

Inasmuch as Croesus had been the aggressor in the Persian-Lydian war, Cyrus first intended to offer him up to the gods on a burning pile, but, thinking better of it, he ordered the fire put out and Croesus taken down. He took the once rich ruler into his company, and later often profited much from the goodly counsel of the one-time king of Lydia. When asked by Cyrus what he wished for most, he replied: "Take off my fetters and send them to the Greek gods. Ask them if they are wont to deceive those who have done them good."

And thus ended the endeavor of Lydia to fulfill her treaty promises to Astyages. The princess who had been his second wife lived out her days in Ecbatana along with the other derelicts of King Astyages, -- his concubines and dancing girls. Neither Cyrus nor Darius cared for them. The daughters of Harpagus kept their love, and they cared naught for others.

Why did Cyrus suddenly change his mind and order Croesus taken down from the burning pile? Because his better nature superseded his desire for revenge. He remembered that he, also, was but a man who had been through many hardships and had been twice condemned to death. Cyrus carried out the rule that has come down to us labeled "Golden." He tried to treat Croesus as he would wish to be treated under similar circumstances. One redeeming feature about Cyrus was that he treated his conquered subjects kindly.

What a pleasant world this world would be if every one lived by the Golden Rule! Most people today live by the rule of gold instead. They now interpret the rule in a very different way: Do others as they do you: or, Do others because they do you: or, Do others before they do you.

While Cyrus was in Sardis a carrier brought him the good news that Dana had borne him a son. He left Harpagus to complete the task begun in the Sardis district, and he hastened back to his capital. The babe was named Cambyses after his grandfather.

Cyrus found Danas sister Attosa was with her. Dana had written her inviting her to come to Persia. They were both alone, and as the elder sister and Darius had no children, Attosa was delighted to Visit Dana in a land she had never before seen. These sisters were very much to each other. Ladies of high rank though they were, they were also very human, and the common things of life were not overlooked by them. Dana and her baby found in Attosa a first-rank nurse.

At heart Cyrus cared more for his home and the ordinary duties of life than he did for war, position and statesmanship. Now that he had great wealth, he began to put into execution his plans for a new capital for the nation and a grand palace for himself. He had long ago promised Dana a fine house and her young heart now thrilled over the building plans as they talked them over together. No item escaped her thought, --the grounds, the furniture, the servants. She had been accustomed to everything fine in her childhood home, and now she was to have even better.

It is natural to desire things a little better than our neighbors, but does this rivalry produce happiness? Are we ever satisfied? Franklin was right when he said, "It is the eyes of other people that ruin us. If every one but myself were blind, I should not wish either fine clothes, a fine house, or fine furniture."

We sing, "There is no place like home." This was once true, from the king to the peasant. For some it is yet. A place where love reigns, with the cares of the world shut out-- that is home. Unfortunately, home today for many is only a filling station and a place to park a few hours at night. Too many homes are spoiled by explosions of temper and emotional cyclones. Anger is not converted by calling it indignation. When our house takes fire, our first impulse is to pour on water; but when our tempers take fire, our first impulse is to throw on more fuel. Faults are always thick where love is thin, but truly there is no liberty like the slavery of love.

We have almost reached the climax of our story. Sixty odd years have passed since a heartbroken band of Jews, nearly all that remained of a once populous country, some in chains, others carrying a few personal effects, walked weeping, under the watchful eyes of Nebuchadnezzars rude soldiers, all the way from Jerusalem to Babylon, a distance of nearly a thousand miles. The hardships suffered on the way by the women and children are beyond description. Many died by the roadside. We have formed some idea of their circumstances during more than sixty years in Babylon: at times, pleasant; at times, bearable; at times, terrible. But as their trials seemed to increase under Belshazzar, the spark of hope fanned into a bright light as they heard of the success of Cyrus. His next move, they felt certain, would be toward Babylon. Earnest prayers were daily offered that divine help and wisdom would be granted them during the coming crisis.

Many of those who had left Jerusalem and had dragged their weary feet those many miles, died during the period of waiting. They had been buried in Babylon. Those who were children and young men and women when they went into exile, were now seventy, eighty, ninety years of age. Their eyes, although dim with age, were sharp with love for their beloved city and the firesides of home. Their hearts beat fast with the thought that very soon they would be privileged to retrace their steps. They laid their plans for a home in the Judean hills, and considered themselves only strangers and pilgrims in Babylon. Now they only waited for the report that Cyrus was directing his troops their way. They had not long to wait!
 
 

THE committee appointed by the Jewish leaders had prepared their statement for Cyrus. As soon as they would know definitely that he was approaching Babylon, Iris was ready to try to deliverit into his hands. The rich Jews were willing to assist Cyrus with money had he needed it, but gold had been found in great quantities in Sardis. They decided that their written statement must encourage him to believe that Babylon would fall into his hands, and that in itself was giving him great assistance.

Cyrus was no angel. He had many good qualities, but like other great men, he had his weaknesses as well. He, like all the other ancient Persians, was reared as a fire worshipper, a follower of Zoroaster. But the Hebrews were correct in their belief that when Cyrus learned that many years before his birth, Jehovah God had named him and agreed to assist him in order that His chosen people might be freed, he would be deeply impressed. The result proved the Jewish leaders were wise in sending him a statement of their belief and purpose concerning the Medes and Persians.

Iris had prepared a special Babylonian garment to wear on her mission. She wished to appear well before Cyrus, otherwise he might refuse to see her. She wished to look very much like the Chaldeans so that her own nation would cause her no trouble. The prepared message, written in official Chaldean characters, was sewed into the lining of her robe. She trembled a little whenever she thought of the task before her, but she never once thought of turning back on her promise. For the love of truth and the God she had learned to love, she would do her part to help fulfil the prophetic word. She felt she was filling a small place in a big program. Not that God was unable to impress Cyrus some other way, but this method seemed best to all to give Cyrus a favorable impression of the Hebrew captives in Babylon.

One morning Abed called with the word that the Medes and Persians were less than a hundred miles to the north, advancing toward Babylon from Sardis, along the Euphrates River. She knew the hour had struck; the time to say farewell had come. Said Abed:

"Iris, I love you. I love you even more because you are going on this perilous journey to assist my people."

"You know I have always loved you, Abed. I will see you again if God wills. Pray that I may deliver the message safely to Cyrus."

No tears were shed. She said she was only doing that which was her duty to do. She considered it more of a pleasure than a duty. Being so slow in coming to a decision to serve God, she felt that nothing was now too great a task to do for Him. With a smile she turned from Abed and made her way to one of the eastern gates of the city. This she did to avoid causing suspicion. As she passed through, soldiers were roughly and thoroughly searching a number of Jews, and the sight made her a trifle nervous until she was well on her way beyond the gates of Babylon. The sun was hot and as she walked the stone-paved road, her feet soon became sore. But for the customary sunshade that she carried, she would have fainted ere she, had traveled far. Lady that she was, she was not accustomed to walking long distances.

After proceeding toward the east for a few miles, she turned north to get back to the road along the river. There Babylonian soldiers were going and returning, and she joined a company of peasant folk for her own protection. Being one of a company, she would not be easily noticed, and when soldiers were seen approaching, she pulled her veil down over her face. In spite of the partial disguise she had assumed, she looked every bit a lady. Alone, she was afraid to ride, and to be seen traveling north on horseback with attendants would certainly have proved fatal to her.

Therefore she walked on and on. But she had no intention of walking all the distance to meet Cyrus. She planned to walk to a village about twenty miles above Babylon and stop there at an inn until Cyrus came to her. But she was very unfortunate in choosing her inn. Unknown to her, some of the other guests at the inn recognized her. The daughter of Melzar was known to many whom she herself did not know as acquaintances.

"Why is the daughter of Melzar stopping at this inn unattended?" asked one of another.

"I wonder," the other replied. "I have heard that she does not worship at the temple any longer, and is very friendly with the Jews."

These two men were in the secret service of Belshazzar and they decided to follow her movements carefully. Unknown to her, she was watched. That she seemed always interested in learning news of the expected arrival of Cyrus, only made her case look the more suspicious.

"The Persians are coming," "the Medes are coming," rang through the inn the third day after her arrival. Iris remained all day in her room, and observed what she could through the bars of her window.

"Why does she not return to Babylon? Why does this rich woman dwell here alone? I tell you, she is a spy," said one of the agents of Belshazzar. These two had on the common peasant dress, and therefore neither Iris nor others suspected them of being in the employ of Belshazzar. His secret service men outside the city, up to a certain time, delivered many messages within by way of the river. They would swim down with the current, entirely submerged except for their noses, unobserved in the wide, deep river. They usually went under the walls in the very darkest part of the night.

That evening Cyrus pitched his camp on the edge of the village. Iris prepared to venture into their camp at dusk and inquire for one of the high officers in the army. By his assistance she believed she could get into the presence of Cyrus. She did not dare to go after dusk, for she knew enough about war to know she could not get by the sentries. But she fully expected to gain entrance to the camp at dusk. If necessary, she would state sufficient of her message to the sentry, should he stop her, and he would then guide her to his superior officer.

But her plans did not work out as she had hoped. Two men followed her as she started for the Persian lines. As they drew near, they accosted her.

"Daughter of Melzar, friend of the Jew, what brings you here? What is your mission? Have you come to entertain Cyrus? Methinks you are a spy carrying secret messages."

"How dare you thus address a Babylonian Lady? What I am doing is none of your affair."

"Oh, it isn't? I arrest you in the name of King Belshazzar. Come with us."

At this Iris turned abruptly and started to run toward the Persian camp. Seeing a number of soldiers beside their tents, she shouted loudly for aid. Fearful that they would be hindered in arresting her, one of the men drew a sword, a short blade, from beneath his cloak, and running close behind her, thrust it through her slender body. When she fell, they both turned and beat a hasty retreat.

The Persian soldiers had heard her call and witnessed the cruel deed, but though they responded quickly, they were too far away to save her. They found her by a pool of blood, but she had regained her presence of mind, and was stuffing her wounds full of cloth she had torn from an inner garment.

"Carry me to Cyrus, quickly," she said, ⁴'before I die. I have a message of the utmost importance for him."

The soldiers carried her into the tent of Darius, for they were under his command, and he sent for Cyrus to enter. But when he arrived she was weak from loss of blood, so weak that she could scarcely speak above a whisper. Cyrus knelt beside her and said, "Who are you, and what is your mission?"

"I am Iris, the daughter of Melzar, a wealthy merchant in Babylon. But 1 am a Jew by religion, and I have come to you as their representative. It is impossible for a Jew to take a message out of the city, or to walk the roads where there are soldiers of Belshazzar. Their message you will find sewed into my robe. Read it and act upon it. Heaven be praised, I have seen your face and have delivered the message. I can now die with joy in my heart. Tell Abed, O King, that I loved him to the last."

The short speech exhausted her and she sank into a coma from which she never awakened. A peaceful smile settled upon her countenance, and she was fair even in death. Darius had also heard the words she tittered. He was no cynic -- one of those fellows whose head is sore from butting it against facts. "Brave woman," he said. "Let us remove her robe and secure her message."

While Cyrus read the statement, Darius called two soldiers and gave them instructions to put her robe on her again and bury the body. "And be sure you mark the grave well," he added as they went out. Poor Iris! She gave her life as a loving sacrifice. A more glorious Jerusalem than the one she had hoped to visit awaits her. How fortunate for the Jews in Babylon that she delivered her message!

After Cyrus had read over the message brought by Iris, he and Darius read it over together. The manner in which it had been delivered and the nature of the message itself did make a deep impression upon these two mighty warriors, who were bent on attempting to take the strongest city on earth. They read:

"To Cyrus, King of the Medes and Persians, Greeting: More than sixty years ago King Nebuchadnezzar destroyed our city and led us captives into Babylon. During his long reign we were treated with respect and were prospered, although we were not permitted to return to our own land. Many of our countrymen held high positions in the kingdom, as you are doubtless aware.

"Upon the death of King Nebuchadnezzar, conditions changed. Under the later kings we have suffered persecution most bitter. One of the reasons why great hardship has been inflicted upon is that some one betrayed us to the king of Baby-ion and revealed to him that in the writings of the holy prophets it is stated that a man by the name of Cyrus will capture Babylon and overthrow the dynasty. The God of Israel named you more than a hundred years before your birth. The great God, who is the maker of the heavens and the earth, has decreed that you shall take this city. He will assist you. We send you this word of courage and cheer in the hope that you will, upon entering the city, look in pity upon your most humble servants, the Jews."

"Darius," said Cyrus, "I have great respect for these Hebrew prophets. Their God has done wonderful things for them in past years. Some day I trust I shall be permitted to read those statements for myself. I have never doubted that we shall succeed in capturing the city before us. I confess to you that I am not yet certain what means of attack to use."

The next night Cyrus pitched his camp before the city gates. To attempt the overthrow of such a city needed great zeal, patience, and courage. A man's greatness can be judged by how much adversity is needed to discourage him. Opposition at the nozzle of the lawn hose only sends the water farther across the lawn. Babylon was colossal in size, twenty-five miles square, with walls almost three hundred feet high and over eighty feet thick. Outside the wall was a moat filled with water, of the same dimensions as the walls. The world since that day has never viewed a city its equal. In those times there were no engines of war capable of being used with any effect upon a city wall like Babylon's. If the guards in the towers were watchful, there was no hope, humanly speaking, of Cyrus ever taking the city. This the Chaldeans knew, and they scoffed at Cyrus and his soldiers outside the walls. Belshazzar had food stored within the city sufficient to care for all needs for twenty years. Except for his keeping soldiers upon the walls, he ignored the army outside, and within all went on about as usual.

For several weeks Cyrus had surrounded Babylon. No one went in or out of the city. He built high towers and from them sent many arrows and firebrands into the midst of the soldiers in the towers and• upon the wall. But the distance was so great because of the wide moat that little was accomplished. His engines hurled great stones over the wall, but this, too, seemed to have little effect upon anything. The three leaders called a counsel of war. Cyrus spoke:

"My fellow officers, I am at a loss to know what to do next. Our gods do not favor us. We can never starve the Babylonians into opening the gates. Have any of you any counsel to offer?"

"My lord, have you lost faith in the word of the Jews? Why not send a trusted officer into the city to read those statements from their prophets concerning your taking Babylon. Perhaps this will shed some light upon how we are to proceed. The Jewish leaders may know more than we credit them with knowing." Thus spoke Darius.

To this all agreed, and Cyrus summoned a young officer, Smerdis by name, and entrusted him with a message to the Jewish leaders. A long time was consumed in giving him explicit instructions as to what to do, whom to see, and what to say. The night being very dark, he plunged into the river, and passing under the walls, hid himself under one of the bridges which crossed the river on the inside of the city. He had taken a small, waterproof, brass receptacle with him in which was a suit of Babylonian clothing. Putting it on in the darkness under the bridge, he waited for dawn, and the opening of the gates in the wall along the river's edge. With others he passed into the city.

He had made the right choice in entering the side of the city in which the Jews resided. Quietly he walked into the midst of the Jewish quarters. There he observed a few other Babylonians dressed like himself. Because of his dress he had great difficulty in getting any Jew to talk long with him. They would all give him a courteous reply in as few words as possible and then pass on.

He finally made bold to enter the courtyard of one of the better residences. Did it just happen that it was the home of Hananiah, the son of Rabbi Hermon? Hananiah, although cautious, invited the stranger in and listened to his story.

"You are a Jew, are you not?" asked Smerdis.

By this question and the manner of the one asking it, Hananiah felt rather certain the man was indeed a stranger in the city.

"Yes, certainly I am a Jew. Why do you ask?"

"I wished to be sure I was speaking with a Jew, and now, knowing you will not trust me, I must trust you. I am not a Babylonian as my dress would indicate, but I am an officer in the Persian army. If you are a Jew, we are friends. I am sent into the city by Cyrus to see one of your Jewish leaders, one that is versed in the sacred writings of your nation. Will you guide me to such a person?"

Hananiah was thrilled to hear the name Cyrus spoken by other than a Jew. All the words of this stranger came as a surprise. But the man seemed sincere and Hananiah had no doubt Providence was at work. Daily the Hebrews were praying for the army on the outside of the walls. Could they not expect, in answer to their prayers, some surprises? Hananiah felt that he could be doing no wrong to take this unexpected visitor over to his father. But first he suggested that while walking the street with a Jew, they would be safer if he changed his costume to a Jewish dress.

After hearing the request of Smerdis, father and son had no doubt but that he was the special ambassador of Cyrus. He told them that Cyrus had received their statement and greatly appreciated their sending it, also its contents. This warmed their hearts, for they had received no word from Iris all these many weeks, and naturally they were all in great suspense. But the young officer, not knowing anything about Iris, simply replied to the inquiry about her, that on this matter he was uninformed. He stated only what his king had ordered him to relate, namely, that Cyrus had received their message and had sent him to hear read the words of their prophets concerning the fall of Babylon.

These the learned Rabbi read and expounded from the book of Isaiah. He dwelt long on the words, "I will open for him the two-leaved gates, and the gates shall not be shut." The suggestion flashed into the mind of Smerdis, that if he could get into the city under the wall, why could not the army come in that way. It seemed to him from what the Rabbi said, that God promised that the two-leaved river gates would be open. He said nothing, however, of his suggestion to his hearers.

Rabbi Hermon also told him of Daniel, who was a prophet of God, and of his visions concerning the success of Cyrus.

Smerdis also learned that beginning with the next moon would be the grand feast of Tammuz. With all this good news he returned to Cyrus. Not being able to swim against the swift current, he went out of the city at the lower exit of the river, and he then rode a swift horse round that side of the city to the camp of his king.
 
 

THE next day Abed chanced to come early to the home of hisI his sister and Hananiah. They had much of great interest to tell him. But of the subject he desired to learn about most, they could give him no information. He must wait a few days longer to learn how Iris had faithfully delivered her message. To her the Jews owed very, very much. Thevisit of Smerdis was wisely kept secret and not scattered generally, even among the Jews.

When Smerdis announced his arrival in Cyrus' pavilion, the king sent at once for Harpagus and Darius. The result of their counsel was that they endeavor to enter the city via the river bed, some dark night during the feast of Tammuz. But they could not swim in their heavy armor carrying their weapons, and there was no timber with which to build rafts, even if they had chosen to ride under the walls. Cyrus, however, had a plan. He divided his army into three parts. Darius took one part and was ready to enter the city where the riverleft the city. Harpagus took one part and was prepared to enter the city where the river entered it. Cyrus took one part and retreated upstream a few miles, where, at the right time, his soldiers cut the dikes along the river's edge, permitting the water to flow out over the country, forming an inland lake.

When the water was low enough for wading, the hosts of Media and Persia walked under the walls into the city. Here they found the inner gates along the river's edge open as they had anticipated. The whole city was given over to a drunken and sensual feast. Silently, in the darkness, Cyrus' soldiersemerged from the water and struck down the guards. They were too drunk to be aware of anything, and before any one was aware of it, Cyrus had control of the city. The celebration of Tammuz proved the undoing of Belshazzar.

Cyrus, at the last moment, had changed his plans. If both Darius and Harpagus went into the river bed, they risked being observed by the city soldiers, who would raise an alarm, and if the inner gates were not open, a fearful loss would result. Hence, it was agreed that Darius, being younger, should go alone with the troops, and if he was successful in taking the city by storm, he should be given the throne of Babylon as a reward for his courage.

Daniel gives us a most vivid picture of the downfall of Belshazzar. As he was present and an eye witness of all that happened, we will permit him to describe what was going on that night within the city, while the soldiers of Cyrus were marching under her walls. He says:

"Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and drank wine before the thousand.

"Belshazzar, while he tasted the wine, commanded to bring the golden and silver vessels which his father [margin, grandfather] Nebuchadnezzar, had taken out of the temple which was in Jerusalem; that the king, his wives, and his concubines, might drink therein.

"Then they brought the golden vessels that were taken out of the temple of the house of God which was at Jerusalem; and the king, and his princes, his wives, and his concubines drank in them.

"They drank wine, and praised the gods of gold, and of silver, of brass, of iron, of wood, and of stone."

All the great men and ladies of his capital were attending a sumptuous feast in the banqueting room of the palace of Belshazzar. Not a thought was given to the armysurrounding the city, for they believed themselves secure. Their hatred of the Jews and the Jews' God burned in their hearts. The king commanded to bring forth the sacred vessels that had been consecrated to the worship and service of God, which for almost seventy years had been in the storehouse of Babylon, that he and his guests might drink a toast to their own gods from them. This affront to the King of Heaven was to be their last.

"In the same hour came forth fingers of a man's hand, and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaster of the wall of the king's palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote.

"Then the king's countenance was changed, and his thoughts troubled him, so that the joints of his loins were loosed, and his knees smote one against the other.

"The king cried aloud to bring in the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers. And the king spake, and said to the wise men of Babylon, Whosoever shall read the writing, and shew me the interpretation thereof, shall be clothed with scarlet, and have a chain of gold about his neck, and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom. (Belshazzar was only the second ruler himself.)

"Then came in all the king's wise men: but they could not read the writing, nor make known to the king the interpretation thereof.

"Then was King Belshazzar greatly troubled, and his countenance was changed in him, and his lords were astonished."

They were sober enough now! Belshazzar had forgotten that such a man as Daniel lived. The old queen-mother came to his assistance.

"Now the queen by reason of the words of the king and his lords came into the banquet house: and the queen spake and said, O King, live forever: let not thy thoughts trouble thee, nor let they countenance be changed:

"There is a man in thy kingdom, in whom is the spirit of the holy gods; and in the days of thy father [margin, grandfather] light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods, was found in him; whom the King Nebuchadnezzar thy father, the king, I say, thy father, made master of the magicians, astrologers, Chaldeans, and soothsayers;

"Forasmuch as an excellent spirit, and knowledge, and understanding, interpreting of dreams, and shewing of hard sentences, and dissolving of doubts, were found in the same Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar: now let Daniel be called, and he will show the interpretation."

The queen-mother evidently knew that it would take a great deal of persuasion, as frightened even as the young king was, to lead him to call in a Jew, therefore she went to great lengths to tell of his ability. In his failure and need Belshazzar sent for him, for he must know the meaning of those fiery characters which burned into his very soul.

"Then was Daniel brought in before the king. And the king spake and said unto Daniel, Art thou that Daniel, which art of the children of the captivity of Judah, whom the king my father brought out of Jewry?"

What a sudden change! A little while before he had been drinking his wine out of the golden vessels from Jerusalem and insulting the God of the Jews. Now he must send for a Jew, a follower of that God, to read the writing on his palace wall. Belshazzar continued:

"I have even heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods is in thee, and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom is found in thee.

"And now the wise men, the astrologers, have been brought in before me, that they should read this writing, and make known unto me the interpretation thereof: but they could not show the interpretation of the thing:

"And I have heard of thee, that thou canst make interpretations, and dissolve doubts: now if thou canst read the writing, and make known to me the interpretation thereof, thou shalt be clothed with scarlet, and have a chain of gold about thy neck, and shalt be the third ruler in the kingdom."

Belshazzar, supposing that Daniel, like all the king's servants, worked only for money and reward, dared not offer Daniel less than he had offered the other wise men, but that does not necessarily reveal his inner thoughts. He hated the Jews and but a moment before had used their sacred vessels in making mocking merriment before his lords and ladies. Just now he was more interested in knowing what the characters meant than anything else, and any means to acquire that knowledge was permissible for the moment. It gave Daniel the opportunity he had long waited for. He had just been called away from a meeting for prayer in behalf of Cyrus, and as soon as he entered the banquet hail and saw the characters on the wall he knew their prayers were to be answered that night.

"Then Daniel answered and said before the king, Let thy gifts be to thyself, and give thy rewards (fee) to another; yet 1 will read the writing unto the king, and make known unto the king the interpretation.

"O thou king, [he did not wish him to live forever] the most high God gave Nebuchadnezzar thy father a kingdom, and majesty, and glory, and honor:

"And for the majesty that he gave him, all people, nations, and languages, trembled and feared before him: whom he would he slew; and whom he would he kept alive; and whom he would he set up; and whom he would he put down.

"But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him:

"And he was driven from the sons of men; and his heart was made like the beasts, and his dwelling was with the wild asses: they fed him with grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven; till he knew that the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he appointeth over it whomsoever he will.

"And thou his son, O Belshazzar, hast not humbled thine heart, though thou knewest all this;

"But hast lifted up thyself against the Lord of heaven; and they have brought the vessels of his house before thee, and thou, and thy lords, thy wives, and thy concubines, have drunk wine in them; and thou hast praised the gods of silver, and gold, of brass, iron, wood, and stone, which see not, nor hear, nor know: and the God in whose hand thy breath is, and whose are all thy ways, hast thou not glorified:

"Then was the part of the hand sent from him; and this writing was written."

Can you visualize this aged servant of God standing before Babylon's king? His words must have been bitter for the young king to take before all his guests. Before he even began to read the writing Daniel told the king his failings, and Belshazzar, instead of ordering a soldier to strike him down, quailed before his cutting sentences and did nothing. For the moment Daniel was king and his vast audience listened in dread silence. They already knew that the burning characters were written by order of an insulted God.

"And this is the writing that was written, Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin.

"This is the interpretation of the thing: Mene, God hath numbered thy kingdom and finished it.

"Tekel; Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting.

"Peres; Thy kingdom is divided, and given to the Medes and Persians."

What bravery on the part of Daniel, to stand in that glamorous banquet hall, where all the great of Babylon were assembled, and tell them and their king that Cyrus, who had been encamped outside their walls so long, was to have the kingdom.

For months the Hebrews had been praying for the success of Cyrus, because of the predictions concerning him. By faith they knew that sooner or later he would have the city. Daniel was the first to learn when. The chapter closes thus:

"In that night was Belshazzar king of the Chaldeans slain. "And Darius the Median took the kingdom, being about threescore and two years old."

While the king and his guests were feasting in the palace, the army of Cyrus was tramping through the long dark streets toward the palace. Daniel had just left the hail when the Medes and Persians came in. The drunken guards at the doors were surprised and beaten. Quaking with fear, those inside had no way of escape. Daniel, the newly proclaimed third ruler, was not injured. The only Jew to perish was Dan, the traitor.
 
 

THE next morning the city gates were opened wide, and Cyrus and Harpagus marched in triumphant procession into the city. Cyrus was more willing to give credit for his success to his own gods than to Jehovah, yet he was always glad to acknowledge the assistance which the Jews had given him.

In a fitting ceremony, Cyrus placed the crown of Babylon, which had been taken from the fallen Belshazzar, upon the head of Darius, his uncle. He was then sixty-two years of age. Harpagus was given the throne of the Medes, and Cyrus returned to his capital and Dana. Here he once more entered upon his building program. Darius and Harpagus still recognized him as their superior. He was the unseen power behind the throne of the world.

The Jews were somewhat disappointed at seeing Cyrus leave, yet they ought not to have been. No decree was written respecting their return. Another short period of test awaited them. There were still two years before the seventy predicted by Jeremiah should be complete, and the captives ought not to have expected the decree to be issued before the time limit was up.

Darius began immediately to re-organize the government. One of his first moves was to call a meeting of all the prominent Jews. This day was indeed a glorious one for them. To the great envy of the Babylonians, Darius treated them with the utmost respect. Politeness costs nothing but it buys a great deal. Too much of the world today is run on the principle that you do not need road manners if you are a five-ton truck.

Darius publicly thanked the Jews for the service rendered to Cyrus and himself during the past campaign. Their cause had won. He told them how Iris had sacrificed her life to deliver their message; how she had died in his tent. He told them of the instructions he had given for her burial, and of his hope that later a fitting memorial might be erected in her honor. Upon hearing this at least two in the audience wept, and many a Jew mourned in sympathy.

Then the king announced publicly that as a reward for their loyalty, and also because o. their capability, he had decided to restore the Jews to their former positions in the government. "I have selected Daniel to be my prime minister and head of the council of three presidents who are over the one hundred twenty governors, called in Babylon, princes." The wheel had turned and there was great rejoicing in the homes of the Hebrews. No longer were they the objects of insult or outward hatred by their former persecutors. The man next to the king was one of their own nation. But inwardly the Babylonians despised the Jews and envy burned in their hearts against them. Many were still in office who had heard Daniel rebuke their king Belshazzar that night when Daniel alone was able to read the characters on the palace wall. But they knew they could not possibly get their revenge upon the Jews until Daniel was out of their way, so they secretly plotted his destruction. We will permit Daniel to tell the story himself.

"It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom an hundred and twenty princes, which should be over the whole kingdom;

"And over these three presidents; of whom Daniel was first:

that the princes might give accounts unto them, and the king should have no damage.

"Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm.

"Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom: but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him.

"Then said these men, We shall not find any occasion against this Daniel, except we find it against him concerning the law of his God.

"Then these presidents and princes assembled together to the king, and said thus unto him, King Darius, live forever.

"All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors and the princes, the counselors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions.

"Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not.

"Wherefore King Darius signed the writing and the decree.

"Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and gave thanks before his God as he did afore time.

"Then these men assembled, and found Daniel praying and making supplication before his God.

"Then they came near, and spake before the king concerning the king's decree; Hast thou not signed a decree, that every man that shall ask a petition of any God or man within thirty days, save of thee, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions? The king answered and said, The thing is true, according to the laws of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not.

"Then answered they and said before the king, That Daniel, which is of the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a day.

"Then the king, when he heard these words,was sore displeased with himself, and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him: and he labored till the going down of the sun to deliver him.

"Then these men assembled unto the king, and said unto the king, Know, O king, that the law of the Medes and Persians is, That no decree nor statute which the king establisheth may be changed.

"Then they commanded, and they brought Daniel, and cast him into the den of lions. Now the king spake and said unto Daniel, Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee.

"And a stone was brought, and laid upon the mouth of the den; and the king sealed it with his own signet, and the signet of his lords; that the purpose might not be changed concerning Daniel.

"Then the king went to his palace, and passed the night fasting: neither were instruments of music brought before him; and his sleep went from him.

"Then the king arose very early in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions,

"And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: and the king spake and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?

"My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt.

"Then was the king exceedingly glad for him, and commanded that they should take up Daniel out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found on him, because he believed in his God.

"And the king commanded, and they brought those men which had accused Daniel, and they cast them into the den of lions, them, their children, and their wives; and the lions had the mastery of them, and brake all their bones in pieces or ever they had come at the bottom of the den.

"Then King Darius wrote unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the earth; Peace be multiplied unto you.

"I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel; for he is the living God, and steadfast forever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion shall be even unto the end.

"He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in the earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions.

"So this Daniel prospered in the reign of Darius, and in the reign of Cyrus thePersian."

What a deceitful plot to appeal to the king's pride by flattery in order to get Daniel out of their way! They did not realize they had Daniel's God to reckon with. Their falsehoods did not turn out as they had anticipated. When, after Daniel had spent a night with the lions, the sorrowful Darius had him taken out, his enemies told the king the lions were not hungry and urged that Daniel be kept in the den longer. They were alarmed at what appeared to be a miscarrying of their plans and they knew it would be a sorry day for them if Daniel were ever reinstated in his position.

Darius, seeing through their treachery, said, "A good way to test the hunger of the lions, and at the same time prove your statement false or true, is to put you in." The lions proved to be hungry! The king saved Daniel the task of punishing his under officers. From that time onward, none dared speak a word against a Jew, or the God of the Jews. The king's decree was approved by Cyrus and Harpagus. They had great respect for Daniel and the careful, thorough way in which he carried on the affairs of state. Even his enemies declared there was no fault in his administration.

Circumstances became so pleasant for the captives, that many lost their desire to return to their own land. However, in spite of the power granted Daniel, there was still a deep undercurrent of envy and hatred against him and his race. Daniel was now nearly ninety years of age. He knew he probably would not live many years longer. After he was gone, conditions might change again for the worse for his people. Therefore, he and the other loyal leaders waited for the decree which would fulfill the prophetic word and permit them to return and rebuild their homes in Judah. Darius and Daniel became closer friends than ever. The king practically turned all the governmental affairs over to a Jew.

Two very happy years passed quickly for the Hebrew people under the reign of Darius the Mede. They almost forgot their former hardships. The seventy years had almost expired. Their predicted deliverer had come to Babylon and then had gone back to Persia. But the prophets had said that Cyrus would sign the decree. The zealous Jews knew that God would some way fulfil His word. They watched the coming of events with the deepest interest. They did not know how the decree would be issued but they believed it would come on time. Darius sat on the throne of Babylon. He was their friend. A great deliverance had been wrought for them in Babylon, but that in itself did not answer to the promise given them that at the end of seventy years they would be permitted to return again to their homes.

Then it happened suddenly, as sometimes God's events do happen. It came when to outward appearance it looked as though things would go on for years as had the past two. Darius fell ill and died after reigning two full years. Cyrus and Dana moved into the palace at Babylon. There was great mourning for Darius. Cyrus felt his loss keenly. Attosa could not be reconciled. She returned to live with her very aged parents in Ecbatana. As soon as Cyrus was established in Babylon, a select company of Jewish leaders, led by the prime minister, Daniel, called upon the king upon a matter of great concern for every Jew.

They refreshed his memory in regard to the statement they had sent him two years before, which had been delivered to him by the dying Iris. They informed the king that there was much in the prophecy of Isaiah that they had not written into that statement, also in the book of Jeremiah. Then they produced the scroll and read the passages to Cyrus, showing that God had not only named him long before his birth, had not only promised to aid him in taking Babylon, but He had also said that at the end of seventy years' captivity, Cyrus would permit the Jews to return and rebuild their city.

"O King, the time is fulfilled. The seventy years are ended. We have come this day to petition the king to permit us to go back to our native land, to the home of our fathers. May the great King Cyrus grant us gracious permission."

Cyrus consented upon one condition. He desired the venerable Daniel to remain and continue to stand at the head of his world empire. The long-looked-for, long-awaited day had come. We will let Ezra, the grandson of Rabbi Hermon, tell us about the decree.

"Now in the first year of Cyrus, king of Persia, that the word of the Lord by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus, king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing, saying,

"Thus saith Cyrus, king of Persia, The Lord God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of earth; and he hath charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah.

"Who is there among you of all his people? his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and build the house of the Lord God of Israel (He is God) which is in Jerusalem.

"And whosoever remaineth in any place, where be sojourneth, let the men of his place help him with silver, and with gold, and with goods, and with beasts, beside the free-will offerings for the house of God that is in Jerusalem." Ezra 1:1-5.

Not only did the decree of Cyrus permit the captives to return, and provide silver, gold, beasts, and goods, but it also returned to the Hebrews all the gold and silver vessels which Nebuchadnezzar had carried away from Jerusalem. These numbered over five thousand. How all has changed since that dark night two years previous, when Belshazzar had toasted his heathen gods with wine served in these golden cups!

How fully the words of the prophet Jeremiah and the prophet Isaiah were fulfilled!

After Daniel's accusers had been tossed to the lions, he promoted Abed to a very high position in the kingdom. Thus like Joseph of old, after serving many years in prison while innocent, be was finally raised to govern. His experience parallels that of Joseph in another respect also. Before Joseph died in Egypt, he assured his people that God would certainly deliver them from Egyptian bondage and restorethem to their own land, and he requested them to cake his bones with them back to Canaan and bury them there in the land of promise.

Upon the death of Darius, Abed resigned his position to assist in leading the captives back to Jerusalem. He asked and received permission to take the bones of his beloved Iris with him. They buried her there in the land of Judah on the sloping hillside of Olivet. Some day, in thetime of great reunion, she will awaken to find herself with her beloved people in the land where she had hoped to die.

Shortly before Darius died, while Abed was visiting him over matters of state, reference was made to what Iris had done to assist the Jews, and, indirectly, the whole kingdom, and Darius said:

"Now that I know you as Abed, short for Abednego, I must confess to you that I have been very remiss in delivering a message intrusted to me. The last words Iris uttered in my tent before she died were, 'Tell Abed I loved him unto the end.' You should be proud to have had her as a friend. .

Cyrus reached the pinnacle of human greatness. Onlya few in this world have governed the whole known world, After he and Dana had moved from Persia to Babylon, he conducted the first ceremony of its kind ever held. Before his assembled officers and great men, he crowned himself king of the world. Turning to his charming companion, he said, "Dana, I crown you queen of the whole world." Harpagus, his wife, and Attosa were present, as were Cambyses and Mandane.

Cyrus reigned about thirty years. He was buried in his old Persian capital. Whether he fully accepted the Godof Daniel, we do not know. In his published decree liberating the Jews, it would seem as if he did. We must leave him to a Godwho is too wise to err, too strong to fail, and too loving not to do the right and just thing by every one of his obedient, trusting children.