speak and write forty languages.




THE YOUNG CUPBEARER

I



Long, long ago, there lived in Persia a little prince whose name was
Cyrus. [Footnote: Cyrus (_pro_. si'rus).]

He was not petted and spoiled like many other princes. Although his
father was a king, Cyrus was brought up like the son of a common man.

He knew how to work with his hands. He ate only the plainest food. He
slept on a hard bed. He learned to endure hunger and cold.

When Cyrus was twelve years old he went with his mother to Media to
visit his grandfather. His grandfather, whose name was Astyages,
[Footnote: Astyages (_pro_. as ti'a jeez).] was king of Media, and very
rich and powerful.

Cyrus was so tall and strong and handsome that his grandfather was
very proud of him. He wished the lad to stay with him in Media. He
therefore gave him many beautiful gifts and everything that could
please a prince. One day King Astyages planned to make a great feast
for the lad. The tables were to be laden with all kinds of food.