"
The grand signal was heard below, and, without delay, the young men, from
different parts of the building, were seen hurrying to the commodious
apartment set apart for the occasion. Here they found a number of the
king's officers assembled, among whom the youths of Judah recognized the
pleasant countenance of Barzello. They were soon seated in perfect order,
and Babylon never witnessed, in personal appearance, a more interesting
group of youths. They were received by the officers with a smile of
satisfaction, and with a look of admiration. Presently, the dignified
form of Ashpenaz was seen moving slowly towards the rostrum; he ascended,
gracefully bowed to the officers on either side, and proceeded:
"It is of the utmost importance that those who are destined to minister
in the king's presence should be well initiated into the ways and
manners, maxims and customs of our nation, and be well versed in all the
learning of the Chaldeans. Nothing short of this can meet the demands and
reasonable expectations of our great monarch; and for this he has
carefully provided every facility.
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