Still it was one of which the king soon
wearied,especially as the officer interpreted but ill. Spies are best dead, O King,
replied the vizier coldly. The Kingknows what I am and my manner of life. Fill mine
first that I may drink to show you itisnt poisoned.
I have no rank, O King, she answered, who was not
born of the royalHouse of Egypt.
Nextappeared a litter surrounded by a guard of
soldiers.
True, O King, answered the black-robed man in a
deep and solemnvoice, I understand one god only. It isneedless to repeat it before
those who have seen your miracles. Am I ofan age or taste to be in haste to marry
again? Such was the fare of this monarchof the earth.
Thereon he touched me on theshoulder and led me
away surrounded by the guard.
Also they would search my clothes andbelongings
piece by piece, and find the letters.
Thus we advanced up the greathall till we came to
that part where the court was gathered.
Now is the King satisfied that I am a trueman, to
prove which I have told him all this story? Afterwards my arms were loosed although
my feet remained shackled, andI was given food.
Soon it was seen that she could only speak through
an interpreter.
Her body was thrown into the river and found with a
letter in her robethat told all the tale. I am still King of Babylon, the first
Servant of Heavenwith power of life and death.
If it is revealed to anyonehere, upon my royal word
he shall not lack a reward. This I said hoping to discover what had chanced to
Belus. Nabonidus thought a while; then he said wearily,I tire of this
business.
He came forward, bowedslightly to the king and
looked me up and down, then full in the face. As you ask me, O King, he said in a
thick, loud voice, I agree withthe vizier. For now, I know not why, myappetite had
returned to me; perhaps hope was working in my heart. This I said hoping to discover
what had chanced to Belus.
At last a messenger came whowhispered to the
watching eunuch. I bid you obey instantly,and he struck the arm of the throne with
his sceptre. Well, if so, soon my sorrows would bedone.
Still it was one of which the king soon
wearied,especially as the officer interpreted but ill.