rich merchant of the city. Joram was understood to have great influence
at court, owing to the fact that he had traveled all over the then known
world and possessed a valuable knowledge of many nations. His life was a
mysterious one, and, while he was credited with being the richest man in
Babylon, he was little seen outside of his place of business; but many
politicians consulted him, and the king had been known to send his
chariot for Joram day after day when great affairs of state were on hand.
It had also leaked out that people of distinction from other countries
visited the great merchant, and it was correctly surmised in political
circles that Joram had helped to shape many a commercial treaty in the
interests of the Babylonian monarch.

With all his mystery and reticence and secret power, Joram was a loyal
subject of Nebuchadnezzar and ably seconded the king's efforts for
advancing the greatness of Babylon. His family consisted of his wife and
an adopted son. The latter was a young man of fine attainments, and was
being educated in statecraft as well as mercantile affairs.

Early one evening Barzello had succeeded in persuading Joram to accompany
him home. He had spoken of the young captives and the beautiful Perreeza,
and wished the merchant and his family to know them. The two elderly men
were accompanied to the officer's house by Mathias, the adopted son of
Joram. They were warmly greeted by Jupheena, who smilingly conducted
Mathias to another part of the house for the purpose of introducing him
to Perreeza.

"Maid of Judah," said Jupheena, "I have the pleasure of presenting thee
to the honorable Mathias, son of our most excellent Joram."

At these words the maid arose with calmness and beautiful dignity,