Page 63 - The Prophet-statesman a Drama of Daniel

Mithras the Greek, slowly drew the covering from the image till its fine gold gleamed
and glistened in the brilliant sunlight. A sigh of wonder swept over the vast assemblage
as its unexcelled magnificence broke upon their vision, and all recognized the form and

features to be a replica of their king-emperor, as true a resemblance as art and genius
could reproduce.

The orchestra had played in soft tones as the veil was slowly withdrawn and for a

few seconds after the image was bared by the upturned faces of the great throng. Then
at a sudden sweep of the baton of Mithras, the orchestra burst into a mighty crescendo
which was a signal to the whole multitude to fall down and worship the image. The
fortissimo continued while every form remained prostrate, and after a few minutes

began to diminish again, which in turn was a signal that the people could arise.

The worship of the image was the inaugural act for each of the three days of the
festival, and was set at high noon on each day. After that the people dispersed to other

parts of the plain to participate in or watch as spectators the military maneuvers, the
games and athletic contests, or their dramatic presentations. They could return to their
homes at their own choice. Some from greater distances could only attend one day, but
those living closer at hand were present all three days.