u knowest well that
there is a painful scarcity of waiters to stand in the presence of the
king; and even those we have are not what I could desire them to be in
point of intelligence and cultivation. This must be remedied without
delay. My father's taste in this matter was somewhat different from mine.
Far be it from me to cast any reflection on the judgment of my
illustrious father; but the glory and splendor of my empire are on the
forward march, and things at the royal palace must not be permitted to
fall in the rear. I am about to lay a foundation to a measure that will
yet shed glory and luster on my reign. What is more mortifying, Ashpenaz,
while endeavoring to entertain our own dignitaries, and the visiting
nobles of other nations, than to witness the blundering ignorance of our
attendants? In this I cast no blame on my worthy and noble officer--by no
means.

"In my last campaign I gave orders to convey to Babylon a number of young
men of the kingly line, both from Egypt and Judah. From the conversation
I had with Barzello, I am led to believe that there are among them some
very superior minds. Now, it is the wish of thy king that a number of
these youths be taken, and, in company with some of our own young men, be
trained up in the knowledge of our arts and sciences, and receive,
moreover, particular instruction in all the laws of etiquette, and court
customs and maxims, so as to be of efficient service to the king, and at
the same time reflect honor on their stations. About their instruction
there must be nothing shallow or superficial. There must be thorough
work. For this they must have reasonable time. I therefore appoint the
period of their studying to be three years, at the end of which let them
be brought before the king for examination; and let those who will be
able to give satisfaction be permitted to stand before the king.
Moreover, as diet of the best sort contributes both to the beauty of the
body and the improvement of the mind, let them have their daily portion
of the king's meat and the wine which he drinketh. Now, Ashpenaz, for
further information thou art to consult Barzello. He will select a
certain number of young men, and deliver them over to thee, and thou art
to lose no time in placing them under suitable instructors."

"Thy servant," replied Ashpenaz, "is ever happy to obey the orders of his
illustrious sovereign, which are always issued in that profound wisdom
derived only from the god