"So say we all, O king, when we consult our feelings; but the decree is
signed according to the law of the Medes and Persians, and cannot be
altered. The honor of the king depends upon the faithful execution of all
his laws; and if in this one point thou failest and let the guilty one
escape, thy subjects will laugh at thy timidity, and lawlessness will
prevail throughout our borders."

"Of this we may speak hereafter. I must see the first president and learn
more of this matter ere I take another step in this unhappy affair."

On the departure of the conspirators, the king immediately sent for
Daniel, and soon the Hebrew prophet stood in the presence of Darius the
Mede. On his countenance rested that same calm smile. The king gazed upon
him for a moment, and could not but notice the contrast between the
serene, noble countenance of the Hebrew prophet, and the uneasy, agitated
visage of President Fraggood.

"Thou standest before the king, O Daniel, accused as an evil doer! What
sayest thou for thyself?"

"What is the nature of thy servant's offense, O king?"

"Thou art accused of violating a law, chiefly of thine own making, by
offering thy petitions to thy God. To the king it seemeth strange indeed
that he who was the first mover in the formation of a new law, should be
the first one to transgress it. What meaneth all this?"

"I readily perceive by the words of thy mouth, O king, that thou hast
been greatly deceived in this matter. Thy servant had nothing to do in
forming a law whose every feature is repulsive to his soul and an insult