“I know it well,” answered Daniel, his voice unfaltering; “but all is not yet ended. I have heard of the abduction of Ruth, of the malice of Belshazzar and Avil-Marduk against me; yet neither for myself nor for her have I any fear.” “Would God you could teach me your own trust!” The old Jew smiled gently. “You are yet young, and I an ancient river, close upon the sea. The wisdom that you ask is not written in all the books of Imbi-Ilu at Borsippa, nor can a treasure-house of silver buy. But as you fare onward with obedient will and open mind, you shall yet see the vision, and shall hear the message from on high, and know that all is well. The Chaldee’s power passes not beyond the grave, and there are no griefs in Abraham’s bosom.” Isaiah lifted his head, and shook the unmanly tears from his eyes. “I have put by my faintness,” spake he, as if in anger with himself; “who am I to stand as prophet to our people, when my own faith in God grows pale? You have sent for me, my father, on some weighty errand, for I know you never summon me to needless peril. Declare; I am all obedience.” Daniel spoke with bated breath. “Dearest son, Jehovah is speaking again to me in visions, as in the former time. Again His command has come upon me, and with a message which your mouth must give.” “I am unworthy to be the mouthpiece of God Most High.” Daniel smiled again. “Who of living men is worthy? But be confident and strong; fear nothing, and He will lead you out of all perils. Is the Persian Darius still in prison?” “Closely guarded, and they watch all persons that pass out of Babylon, lest they be secret bearers of news to Cyrus. But there is a report—” “Of what?” asked Daniel, as eagerly as ever was his wont. “That Ariathes, the favourite servant of Darius, was not arrested with the other Persians of the prince’s suite, and there is a chance that he has fled to Susa, bearing tidings of the outrage done the envoy.” “Jehovah’s name be blessed, your task is made easy!” “_My_ task,” cried Isaiah. “Yours,” again Daniel’s voice sank low. “This is what is commanded you of God: On the day of the feast of Bel cast all fear from you. Trust in the guardianship of Jehovah. During the festival the customary watch will be relaxed. You know the great tunnel beneath the Euphrates, from the palace to the Eastern City?” “I have been through it twice. It is treading amongst the dead to traverse it, but I do not fear.”