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.
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