stringency on those pretending foreigners who fill the
most important stations in the government."

"But, brother," said the sister, eagerly, "which thinkest thou they will
choose--the worship of our gods or the fiery furnace?"

"I am in hopes they are fanatical enough to choose the latter," answered
the brother; "for in case they should choose the former, they would be as
much in our way as ever. But then it would be some consolation to know
that they had been compelled to worship and bow before the gods of the
Chaldeans."

"There is one thing to be deeply regretted," said Shagoth. "I am informed
that Belteshazzar, the great Rab Mag, is now in Egypt, and is not
expected to return for some weeks. He also ought to bear them company and
share the same fate. But if only we can put these three out of our way we
shall have abundant reason to adore the gods."

"But, my sons," said the mother, "will not these Hebrews elude notice
among so many? The gods know how I fear lest after all they may escape."

"Fear not that, mother," answered Scribbo. "Shagoth and myself will so
arrange matters as to be near them; and if they bow not with us we will
on the spot report them to the king."

"This is a matter of ponderous importance, and of immense consequence,"
said the promenading father. "From this, Chaldea shall hereafter reap
abundant harvests. These proud and insolent foreigners who insinuate
themselves into offices which native Chaldeans ought to fill, will now
learn a lesson of modesty to which they have hitherto been strangers. Far
better for our beloved Chaldea if the superstitious brood had been left
in their own country. May the gods grant that every Hebrew office-holder
may so cling to his imaginary god as to walk straight from office into
sure destruction. My motto is 'Chaldeans for Chaldea!' Personally, I have
no hostility toward these young men. Nay! But, O my country! my country!
it is for thee my heart bleeds! Sons! ye shall do well to be on your
guard, and see to it that they escape not your vigilance. If they die,
their offices will be vacant, and must soon be supplied by some persons
of ability. O my country! It is for thee, O Chaldea! my heart bleeds!"

"But," said the anxious mother, "are not these important offices at the
disposal of the Rab Mag? If he still remains, can we expect any favors
from him? Alas! my husband may well cry, 'O my country!'"

"Perhaps," said the daughter, "if he hears of the death of