was but for a moment—­then, in a clear, silvery tone, he gave the answer, without the least degree of confusion.  It was beyond the expectation of the king.  He gazed on the youth for a moment in silence, and then pronounced the answer to be a correct one.  Another question of the same nature, requiring, perhaps, some additional knowledge, was asked, the king remarking, at the same time, that his good opinion of their abilities did not depend upon their answering those questions, for they were of such a nature as would puzzle more experienced heads; but such was the readiness with which some of the scholars had answered all the questions hitherto asked, that he was anxious to know if it were in his power to ask a question which they could not answer; and in order to give all an equal opportunity, he would direct his questions to each one.  So the king commenced on the left, and deliberately pointed to each scholar; but no answer was heard until he came to young Mishael.  With promptness, and in a few words, he gave a perfect answer to a question which the King of Babylon considered beyond the capacity of any student present.

By this time it was evident to the king that the number of those who truly excelled was four; and that these four sat together.  To these, therefore, he would direct his remaining questions.  And now, in earnest, commenced a regular contest for the mastery.  On one hand, behold the great sovereign of the Chaldean empire, noted for the depth of his learning.  On the other, behold four young men, from the land of Israel, whom, three years before, he had brought as captives of war from the metropolis of Judah.  All the king’s powers of mind were called forth.  From the occasion he gathered a degree of enthusiasm, and he was glad of an opportunity to show himself to such pleasing advantage before so many of his nobles and influential subjects.  With the four Hebrews he was highly delighted.  Their great knowledge astonished him; but still he thought that soon he would be able to bring them to a dead stand.  Question after question was asked, and question after question was answered, to the utter astonishment of the large audience.  The contest was long, and of a thrilling nature; and not until the king was convinced that he was dealing with his superiors did he cry out, in a loud voice: 

“It is enough!”

Every eye rested on Ashpenaz, as he stood ready to announce the names of those whom the king wished to honor.

“Belteshazzar!”

Daniel, with calm dignity and genuine modesty, left his seat, walked to the place appointed, and bowed low in the presence of the king.

“Shadrach!”

Hananiah, with a slight blush, that rendered him but the more comely, left his seat, and stood by the side of his cousin, in the presence of the king.

“Meshach!”

Mishael, with a smile on his lip, and an unfaltering step, found his place by the side of his brother.