e, he had dealt with much mildness toward the
inhabitants of Jerusalem. On taking the city, he charged his soldiers to
show no indignity to the inhabitants, under the severest penalty--which
charge was well heeded. Towards Jehoiakim he also evinced a kind
disposition. With but few restrictions, he was permitted to reign. Now
that Jehoiakim had abused these acts of kindness, had violated solemn
obligations, and, in addition to all this, had publicly ridiculed the
ambassador, Nebuchadnezzar's indignation was kindled to a flame.

The King of Judah on this occasion, as well as on all other occasions of
embarrassment and perplexity, sought relief in mixed wines. These
stimulated his courage for the time being, which, being left to its own
resources, was of a low order; but, under the effects of these deceitful
liquids, he became heroic.

"Jared!" said Jehoiakim, "where is that Sherakim who was so full of fight
at the banquet hall last night?"

"As my soul liveth, O king, I know not his whereabouts. I have not seen
him since early dawn; and then he appeared to be in haste, and was in no
mood for conversation."

"A curse on his cowardly head! I suppose these Chaldeans have put his
valor to flight. Jared! how many armed men have we within the royal
enclosures?"

"Two hundred of the royal guard, O king, are present--all armed and ready
to face death for their illustrious sovereign."

"It is well!" said Jehoiakim, filling his bowl. "Ha, ha, ha! Let the King
of Babylon beware of my vengeance? What does the fool desire? The King of
Judah is not to be frightened. Jared! where is Sherakim?"

"Sherakim, O king, is not to be found."

"Ah, I had forgotten. Sherakim not to be found! Ha, ha, ha! Sherakim not
to be found! The cowardly babbler! Jared, command more wine! Sherakim has
fled--he is afraid of a shadow--he has not the courage of a maiden. Have I
not known him of old? Did not a thunderstorm always make him cry? Ha, ha,
ha! Sherakim the orator! fool! coward!"

"A messenger, O king, from the King of the Chaldeans, desires to be
introduced into thy presence. Shall I conduct him to the apartment?"

"Is he alone or accompanied?"

"Accompanied by armed men."

"Let the messenger be admitted, but let the guard remain behind."

The messenger was accordingly ushered into the presence of Jehoiakim.

"And what business of importance has brought thee into the presence of
the King of Judah?" asked Jehoiakim, with curling lip.