requirements of Jehovah, but we shall also
be better able to master those arduous studies which stand before us in
such formidable array."

"Right, noble cousin," cried Azariah, hastening up to Daniel and grasping
him affectionately by the hand; "always right! On thee be the sole
management of the business; and we are confident that, as usual, under
the blessing of our God, we shall come forth triumphantly."

"First of all, then, I must have an interview with our kind master."

Footsteps were now heard approaching their apartment. Daniel opened the
door, and, finding there a servant of Ashpenaz, addressed him:

"Will the servant of our noble master have the kindness to convey to him
a message, in few words, from one of the youths of Judah?"

"The servant of my lord Ashpenaz will always be happy to do all in his
power for the comfort and happiness of those from Judah; and any message
to my lord I am ready to convey."

"The message is this: Daniel, of the captivity of Judah, asks the favor
of a short interview with his kind lord, Ashpenaz."

The servant respectfully bowed and departed, and, in a few moments,
Daniel stood in the presence of his kind friend.

"And what is the pleasure of my young friend from Judah?"

Here Daniel explained, in an eloquent manner, the objections he and his
three companions had to partaking of the portion of the king's meat and
the wine which he drank.

"This is rather a delicate point, my young friend," answered Ashpenaz,
with a degree of perplexity visible on his countenance. "If your meat and
drink were of my own appointment, your request could be granted with the
greatest ease and pleasure; but since the order comes from the king, I
see not how it can be granted without disobedience to superior orders.
The king desires to give you every opportunity to improve, if possible,
your appearance. I fear my lord the king. For why should he see your
faces worse looking than the children which are of your degree? Then
shall ye make me endanger my head to the king."

"Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days," said Daniel, turning
towards Melzar, "and let them give us vegetable food, and pure cold water
to drink. Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the
countenances of the children that eat of the portion of the king's meat;
and as thou seest, deal with thy servants."

"Well," replied Ashpenaz, smiling, "if the king's object is accomplished,
I trust he is not te