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