ld be ranged in another order and directed by wisdom; but
this other order, which would be perfect, can exist only in the eternal
abode of the Supreme Being, to which no evil can approach. The Deity
hath created millions of worlds, among which there is not one that
resembles another. This immense variety is the effect of His immense
power. There are not two leaves among the trees of the earth, nor two
globes in the unlimited expanse of heaven that are exactly similar; and
all that thou seest on the little atom in which thou art born, ought to
be in its proper time and place, according to the immutable decree of
Him who comprehends all. Men think that this child who hath just
perished is fallen into the water by chance; and that it is by the same
chance that this house is burned; but there is no such thing as chance;
all is either a trial, or a punishment, or a reward, or a foresight.
Remember the fisherman who thought himself the most wretched of
mankind. Oromazes sent thee to change his fate. Cease, then, frail
mortal, to dispute against what thou oughtest to adore."

"But," said Zadig--as he pronounced the word "But," the angel took his
flight toward the tenth sphere. Zadig on his knees adored Providence,
and submitted. The angel cried to him from on high, "Direct thy course
toward Babylon."

THE ENIGMAS

Zadig, entranced, as it were, and like a man about whose head the
thunder had burst, walked at random. He entered Babylon on the very day
when those who had fought at the tournaments were assembled in the
grand vestibule of the palace to explain the enigmas and to answer the
questions of the grand magi. All the knights were already arrived,
except the knight in green armor. As soon as Zadig appeared in the city
the people crowded round him; every eye was fixed on him; every mouth
blessed him, and every heart wished him the empire. The envious man saw
him pass; he frowned and turned aside. The people conducted him to the
place where the assembly was held. The queen, who was informed of his
arrival, became a prey to the most violent agitations of hope and fear.
She was filled with anxiety and apprehension. She could not comprehend
why Zadig was without arms, nor why Itobad wore the white armor. A
confused murmur arose at the sight of Zadig. They were equally
surprised and charmed to see him; but none but the knights who had
fought were permitted to appear in the assembly.

"I have fought as well as the other