Here they halted.
At last, the massive portals were thrown open, and the king, in a
magnificent chariot, surrounded by an imposing guard, made his
appearance. He waved his hand in the direction of the multitude, when,
with one voice, the people exclaimed:
"O king, live forever!"
The procession was soon on its way to the plains of Dura, the king
leading the pompous train, while eager thousands brought up the rear. On
the way, they were joined by thousands more, who at different places
waited their arrival, and at every stage the high praises of the King of
Babylon echoed from ten thousand voices.
The great image far surpassed anything of its kind within the realm. Its
dimensions were large and well proportioned, its height being twenty
cubits, and its breadth six cubits, elevated on a richly gilded pedestal,
forty cubits in height, thus being perfectly visible to all the
worshipers. Around its base stood the officiating priests of Belus, with
solemn visages, their long flowing robes adorned with numerous articles
of rich regalia.
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