perfect answer to a question which the King
of Babylon considered beyond the capacity of any student present.

By this time it was evident to the king that the number of those who
truly excelled was four; and that these four sat together. To these,
therefore, he would direct his remaining questions. And now, in earnest,
commenced a regular contest for the mastery. On one hand, behold the
great sovereign of the Chaldean empire, noted for the depth of his
learning. On the other, behold four young men, from the land of Israel,
whom, three years before, he had brought as captives of war from the
metropolis of Judah. All the king's powers of mind were called forth.
From the occasion he gathered a degree of enthusiasm, and he was glad of
an opportunity to show himself to such pleasing advantage before so many
of his nobles and influential subjects. With the four Hebrews he was
highly delighted. Their great knowledge astonished him; but still he
thought that soon he would be able to bring them to a dead stand.
Question after question was asked, and question after question was
answered, to the utter astonishment of the large audience. The contest
was long, and of a thrilling nature; and not until the king was convinced
that he was dealing with his superiors did he cry out, in a loud voice:

"It is enough!"

Every eye rested on Ashpenaz, as he stood ready to announce the names of
those whom the king wished to honor.

"Belteshazzar!"

Daniel, with calm dignity and genuine modesty, left his seat, walked to
the place appointed, and bowed low in the presence of the king.

"Shadrach!"

Hananiah, with a slight blush, that rendered him but the more comely,
left his seat, and stood by the side of his cousin, in the presence of
the king.

"Meshach!"

Mishael, with a smile on his lip, and an unfaltering step, found his
place by the side of his brother.

"Abednego!"

Azariah, with a degree of paleness spread over his youthful countenance,
left his seat, and joined his comrades.

"Apgomer!"

Apgomer was startled. The contented youth looked for no such result.
Delighted with the triumph of the Hebrews, and the punishment of his
cousins' vanity, he considered himself well rewarded. But, remembering
himself, he quickly left his seat, and, with a pleasant smile upon his
countenance, he took his place by the side of Azariah.

The parchment was rolled up and delivered over to the king.

The king arose, and thus addressed the f