move around on your own limbs, even if they are rather "short metre,"
than to parade abroad on stilts in mid-air.

In the colloquies, I have not thought it best to follow strictly the
Oriental style. However pleasing this might have been to some, I am well
persuaded that it could not meet the approbation of the generality of
readers; and as the great design of the work is to bear with weight upon
some of the corrupt usages and wicked policies of the present day, I
thought it advisable to shape the phraseology in conformity with modern
usages.

In the prosecution of this work, I have consulted the following
authorities: Josephus, Rollins' "Ancient History," Smith's "Sacred
Annals," "Daniel, a Model for Young Men," by Dr. Scott, Clarke's,
Henry's, Scott's, and Benson's Commentaries; with some other smaller
works.

In following the "Youths of Judah" through their various trials, at home
and in a land of strangers, I have received much genuine pleasure and
lasting profit; and that the reader, likewise, may be greatly pleased and
benefited, is the sincere desire of his unworthy servant,
Erasmus W. Jones.


THE YOUNG CAPTIVES

A STORY OF JUDAH AND BABYLON

By ERASMUS W. JONES.