trength for
their peculiar trials. They found themselves in possession of energy of
spirit and courage, that was truly a source of wonderment to themselves.
They thought of friends and home with all the fervor of pure affection;
but it was not accompanied with those painful, agonizing emotions that
are wont to accompany the remembrance of native land and absent friends;
in regard to which state of mind they could well adopt the language of
one of their happiest monarchs: "This is the Lord's doing, and it is
marvelous in our sight."

It was about the ninth hour. The youthful group were seated together.

"Well, cousin," said Azariah, smiling and looking round the apartment,
"this has more the appearance of being guests of royalty than poor
captives of war."

"Yea, truly," replied Daniel; "and in this we clearly see the
loving-kindness of our God, by whom princes rule and kings govern."

"Our kind friend, Barzello," said Hananiah, "has promised to call on us
ere the sun sets."

"And he will certainly fulfill his promise," said Mishael.

"We have proved him a genuine and a wise counselor," said Daniel.

"And his loving-kindness shall ever remain deeply graven on our
memories," said Azariah.

"Perreeza hopes," said the sister, "that it may be her good providence to
be always near the good man, where she may often see his smiling face."

"Our excellent master, under the direction of the King of kings, will
order all things for the best," said Hananiah.

"Let us always remember the parting admonitions of our good Prophet,"
said Mishael, "and calmly submit our all to the wisdom of the Keeper of
Israel."

"Even so, amen!" replied the others.

Quick footsteps were heard without. The door opened, and Barzello entered
the apartment. The youths unitedly arose, and bowed low, in humble token
of respect to the noble officer.

"I trust my young friends from Judah find these apartments a comfortable
resting place."

"Thy servants," replied Daniel, "are overwhelmed with thy kindness, and
hope, in some sphere, by a true and honest deportment, to be able to show
their benefactor that his kindness is duly appreciated."

"And how does our young maid of Judah feel after her long journey?" asked
Barzello, as he smilingly approached Perreeza.

"Thy maid of Judah is in good health; and being so well provided for on
her journey, she experienced but a very slight inconvenience."

[image 3]

"But she must be further provided