Page 19 - The Prophet-statesman a Drama of Daniel

CHAPTER IV

ASHPENAZ REPORTS TO THE KING

Ashpenaz was a dapper little man, with keen dark eyes that matched his wavey,

black hair. Alert of mind and body, he carried an air of genial good-humor that made
him popular with all. He gained the loyalty and co-operation of his subordinates by his
consideration and courtesy, rather than by any attitude of imperiousness. The fact that
he had attained to a position of high favor and trust with Nebuchadnezzar brought no

change in his demeanor toward his former associates, and they applauded the royal
recognition of his wisdom and ability.

With three attendants, he hastened on foot from the Fourth Temple of Bel, where he

had left his Jewish charges, to his own home where he bathed and changed his garments
preparatory to presenting himself to the king.

Thus properly attired and still shadowed by the trio of attendants, he ascended the

long incline of Palace Way to the outer gate of the abode of one of the mightiest
monarchs of history.

“Welcome back again, my Lord Ashpenaz,” spoke out Arioch, the captain of the

king‘s guard, who happened to be on a tour of inspection of the outer sentries, when he
arrived, “It will be my pleasure to escort you personally to the king’s presence. His
Majesty sent out word that he was expecting you shortly.” Lord Ashpenaz’ personal
attendants remained at the gate as he entered with Captain Arioch. They passed through

the inner gate, as the guards stood at attention, and up the long flight of marble steps.
Two stone lions crouched at the top of the flight, one on each side, and before the
massive black-marble columns of the porch. Again before the door were the uniformed
guards who saluted as the distinguished pair passed in. Through the vestibule and down

the corridor and up an inner flight of stairs they went until they stood before the door of
the great throne-room. They were invited to be seated in the ante-room, while the
receptionist passed into the royal presence to inquire whether His Majesty would

receive them.

Even in the ante-room they could hear the stentorian tones of Nebuchadnezzar as he
bellowed: “Ashpenaz! Indeed yes! Show him in immediately, and Captain Arioch too!”
The immense hall in which was placed the golden throne of the Chaldean rulers, with

its high-domed ceiling inlaid with multi-colored jewels, expansive walls, and floors
paved with tiles of every hue, and imported from all parts of the empire, was no new