ultitude, when,
with one voice, the people exclaimed:

"O king, live forever!"

The procession was soon on its way to the plains of Dura, the king
leading the pompous train, while eager thousands brought up the rear. On
the way, they were joined by thousands more, who at different places
waited their arrival, and at every stage the high praises of the King of
Babylon echoed from ten thousand voices.

The great image far surpassed anything of its kind within the realm. Its
dimensions were large and well proportioned, its height being twenty
cubits, and its breadth six cubits, elevated on a richly gilded pedestal,
forty cubits in height, thus being perfectly visible to all the
worshipers. Around its base stood the officiating priests of Belus, with
solemn visages, their long flowing robes adorned with numerous articles
of rich regalia.

Scribbo and Shagoth, faithful to their revengeful promise, were on the
keen alert for the three Hebrews. In their wanderings they came across
Apgomer.

"We are in search of thy three Hebrew friends," said Shagoth. "Canst thou
inform us where we may find them?"

"I can," promptly replied Apgomer. "I know the exact spot on which they
stand."

"This is truly gratifying," replied Scribbo. "Now lead us to the spot
without delay."

"To my Hebrew friends your presence would be anything but agreeable; and,
as I am under far more obligations to them than to some others, I am very
happy to disregard your request."

"Thou art in command of the same daring insolence as characterized thy
school-days," said Scribbo, in an angry tone.

"To be accused of insolence by the envious sons of Skerbood, is fully
equivalent to being called noble and gentle by a worthy citizen,"
answered Apgomer, with a smile of contempt playing on his lip. "So permit
me to thank you for the high compliment."

"Speakest thou so to us, thou insulting pretender!" cried Shagoth, in a
rage. "Thou hadst better depart ere we punish thy insolence with the edge
of the sword."

"Terrible words, surely, from mighty swordsmen!" said Apgomer, smiling.
"Is it any wonder I tremble beneath your gaze? Even from the days of your
childhood your courage and valor have been proverbial. My cousin Scribbo,
at the early age of ten years, would, without fear, push headlong into
the water little girls years younger than himself; while the brave
Shagoth, at the early age of twelve, could find no more pleasing
recreation than to scourge his