abilities and great worth. Their amiable deportment and truly noble
bearing have left on my mind a very favorable impression. Indeed, the
youths of Babylon, who pride themselves so much on their superior
learning and high attainments, might learn precious lessons of wisdom
from these very youths of Judah."

"By the gods! Barzello," said the king, laughing heartily, "if at this
rate these youths continue to grow upon thy good opinion, before many
days thou wilt be a convert to the religion of Judah!"

"Of the religion of Judah I know but little; but if these children are a
fair specimen of its operations, I cannot think that there is anything
very dangerous or offensive in it."

"Well, when we arrive in Chaldea, we shall give their powers a fair
trial. But are there any more brothers in that family?"

"No more, O king," replied the officer, inwardly thanking the king for
the question. "There are but three brothers and one young sister."

"She will be a comfort to her mother in the absence of her sons," said
the king, in a thoughtful mood.

"But the young damsel has no mother. For many years the children have
been both fatherless and motherless."

"Then there must be bitter parting there, Barzello! This young damsel, an
only orphan sister, must be bound to her brothers by more than common
ties."