nity of his
bearing, as he slowly walked into the presence of his superiors, that
both the Mede and the Persian unconsciously found themselves on their
feet to receive him.

"Our distinguished friend has readily complied with our request," said
the Persian, beckoning Daniel to a seat on his right.

"Throughout the days of my pilgrimage it has been my great pleasure to
render strict obedience to the will of my superiors in all things
consistent with the law of my God."

"Then thou considerest the law of thy God as having stronger claims on
thy obedience than the laws of thy king?"

"The law of Jehovah is supreme! By that law my life has been shaped; and
now, at its close, it is surely my joy and consolation."

"Precious sentiments from a noble Hebrew!" cried Cyrus, with feeling.
"And how long hast thou been a resident of Babylon?"

"Threescore and six years have passed away since thy servant bade adieu
to his native hills in the land of Judah, and came to this great city of
Babylon. The companions of my early days have mostly passed away, and
soon thy servant shall follow them."

"I trust that such a life shall be precious in the sight of the gods for
many years to come. Such is thy deep experience in the affairs of state,
that we have purposed in our hearts to appoint thee first president of
the provinces. Is Belteshazzar willing to serve the king in this
capacity, and shed honor upon the joint reign of the Medes and Persians?"

"My life, for the short period I may tarry among mortals, if ye consider
me worthy, will be consecrated to your service."

"Then, O Belteshazzar," answered Darius, "thou art, by our united power
and authority, appointed chief of the presidents. May the gods be thy
support!"

Soon after his appointment, Daniel, in humble reverence, left the
presence of the royal dignitaries, and slowly directed his footsteps
towards his own mansion.

"The praises of this man have not yet reached his real merits, Cyrus,"
said Darius. "Thou well sayest. There is a striking peculiarity in all
his movements that convinces the beholder that he is one among ten
thousand."

"Thy stay in Babylon must be of short duration. Thou art soon off to the
wars. I also must soon return to Media; therefore, this appointing of the
presidents must be attended to without delay. On thee, I pray, let this
business rest; and whomsoever, in thy wisdom, thou shalt appoint, be
assured the appointment will receive my cordial a