diff options
Diffstat (limited to 'old/68174-h/68174-h.htm')
| -rw-r--r-- | old/68174-h/68174-h.htm | 12551 |
1 files changed, 0 insertions, 12551 deletions
diff --git a/old/68174-h/68174-h.htm b/old/68174-h/68174-h.htm deleted file mode 100644 index c007b09..0000000 --- a/old/68174-h/68174-h.htm +++ /dev/null @@ -1,12551 +0,0 @@ -<!DOCTYPE html> -<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en"> -<head> - <meta charset="UTF-8" /> - <title> - The Princess Athura, by Samuel W. Odell—A Project Gutenberg eBook - </title> - <link rel="icon" href="images/cover.jpg" type="image/x-cover" /> - <style> /* <![CDATA[ */ - -body { - margin-left: 10%; - margin-right: 10%; -} - - h1,h2 { - text-align: center; - clear: both; -} - -p { - margin-top: .51em; - text-align: justify; - margin-bottom: .49em; -} - -hr { - width: 33%; - margin-top: 2em; - margin-bottom: 2em; - margin-left: 33.5%; - margin-right: 33.5%; - clear: both; -} - -hr.chap {width: 65%; margin-left: 17.5%; margin-right: 17.5%;} -@media print { hr.chap {display: none; visibility: hidden;} } - -div.chapter {page-break-before: always;} -h2.nobreak {page-break-before: avoid;} - -table { - margin-left: auto; - margin-right: auto; -} - -.tdr {text-align: right;} - -.pagenum { - position: absolute; - left: 92%; - font-size: smaller; - text-align: right; - font-style: normal; - font-weight: normal; - font-variant: normal; - text-indent: 0; -} - -p.drop-cap { - text-indent: -0.35em; -} -p.drop-cap2 { - text-indent: -0.75em; -} -p.drop-cap:first-letter, p.drop-cap2:first-letter -{ - float: left; - margin: 0em 0.15em 0em 0em; - font-size: 250%; - line-height:0.85em; - text-indent: 0em; -} -.x-ebookmaker p.drop-cap, .x-ebookmaker p.drop-cap2 { - text-indent: 0em; -} -.x-ebookmaker p.drop-cap:first-letter, .x-ebookmaker p.drop-cap2:first-letter -{ - float: none; - margin: 0; - font-size: 100%; -} - -.blockquot { - margin-left: 17.5%; - margin-right: 17.5%; -} - -.x-ebookmaker .blockquot { - margin-left: 7.5%; - margin-right: 7.5%; -} - -.indentright {padding-right: 5em;} - -.center {text-align: center;} - -.right {text-align: right;} - -.smcap {font-variant: small-caps;} - -.ph1 {text-align: center; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;} -.ph2 {text-align: center; font-size: xx-large; font-weight: bold;} - -div.titlepage {text-align: center; page-break-before: always; page-break-after: always;} -div.titlepage p {text-align: center; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5; margin-top: 2em;} - -.large {font-size: 125%;} - -.x-ebookmaker .hide {display: none; visibility: hidden;} - -.figcenter { - margin: auto; - text-align: center; - page-break-inside: avoid; - max-width: 100%; -} - -.poetry-container {text-align: center;} -.poetry {display: inline-block; text-align: left;} -.poetry .verse {text-indent: -2.5em; padding-left: 3em;} -.poetry .first {text-indent: -3em; padding-left: 3em;} - -@media print { .poetry {display: block;} } -.x-ebookmaker .poetry {display: block;} - -.transnote {background-color: #E6E6FA; - color: black; - font-size:smaller; - margin-left: 17.5%; - margin-right: 17.5%; - padding: 1em; - margin-bottom: 1em; - font-family:sans-serif, serif; } - - /* ]]> */ </style> -</head> -<body> -<p style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Princess Athura, by Samuel W. Odell</p> -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online -at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: The Princess Athura</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:0; margin-top:0; margin-bottom:1em;'>A romance of Iran</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Samuel W. Odell</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Illustrator: Jay Hambidge</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: May 25, 2022 [eBook #68174]</p> -<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</p> - <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; text-align:left'>Produced by: MFR, David E. Brown, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive)</p> -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE PRINCESS ATHURA ***</div> - -<div class="figcenter hide"><img src="images/coversmall.jpg" width="450" alt="" /></div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/i_frontis.jpg" alt="" /></div> -</div> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/i_title.jpg" alt="" /></div> -</div> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="titlepage"> - -<h1>THE<br /> -PRINCESS ATHURA</h1> - -<p><span class="large"><i>A ROMANCE OF IRAN</i></span></p> - -<p>BY<br /> -<span class="large">SAMUEL W. ODELL</span></p> - -<div class="figcenter"><img src="images/i_titlelogo.jpg" alt="" /></div> - -<p>NEW YORK<br /> -<span class="large">THOMAS Y. CROWELL COMPANY</span><br /> -PUBLISHERS</p> -</div> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p class="center">Copyright, 1913, by<br /> -<span class="smcap">Thomas Y. Crowell Company</span><br /> -<br /> -<i>Published April, 1913</i></p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak">CONTENTS</h2> -</div> - - -<table> - - - -<tr><td class="tdr"><small>CHAPTER</small></td><td class="tdr" colspan="2"><small>PAGE</small></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">I</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Great King’s Last Battle</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_1"> 1</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">II</td><td> <span class="smcap">An Oath</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_15"> 15</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">III</td><td> <span class="smcap">Prexaspes</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_29"> 29</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">IV</td><td> <span class="smcap">Athura</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_42"> 42</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">V</td><td> <span class="smcap">Cambyses</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_58"> 58</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">VI</td><td> <span class="smcap">Persepolis</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_76"> 76</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">VII</td><td> “<span class="smcap">I am Cyrus, the King, the Achæmenian!</span>”</td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_92"> 92</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">VIII</td><td> <span class="smcap">A Royal Council and a Royal Hunt</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_101"> 101</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">IX</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Deeper Things</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_121"> 121</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">X</td><td> <span class="smcap">A Farewell Feast</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_133"> 133</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XI</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Great King Introduces a Strange Custom</span>     </td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_151"> 151</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XII</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Force of an Oath</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_165"> 165</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XIII</td><td> <span class="smcap">A Clash of Wills</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_179"> 179</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XIV</td><td> <span class="smcap">The War Against Egypt</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_198"> 198</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XV</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Madness of Cambyses</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_219"> 219</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XVI</td><td> <span class="smcap">The End of Oath-Keeping</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_235"> 235</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XVII</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Earless King</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_254"> 254</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XVIII</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Spider’s Web</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_266"> 266</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XIX</td><td> <span class="smcap">A Galloping To and Fro</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_280"> 280</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XX</td><td> <span class="smcap">The Overthrow of the Magi</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_297"> 297</a></td></tr> - -<tr><td class="tdr">XXI</td><td> <span class="smcap">King of Kings</span></td><td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_305"> 305</a></td></tr> -</table> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_1">[1]</span> - -<p class="ph2">THE PRINCESS ATHURA<br /> - - -<small>A Romance of Iran</small></p> - - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER I<br /> - - -<small>THE GREAT KING’S LAST BATTLE</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">IT was morning on the plains of Asia. Long-legged -herons stood in the shallows of the yellow Jaxartes, -bathing their feet in its sluggish flood and warming -their bodies in the first rays of the sun. They were -silently and uneasily watching a host of armed men -drawn out in long battle-lines across the lowlands bordering -the southern margin of the stream.</p> - -<p>Where the armed host stood was a sandy plain, about -two miles wide. Beyond this was a low range of sand-hills, -which trended away to the southeast, enlarging -the plain as they receded from the river. Cutting -through hills and plain to join the river-bed was a dry -water-course, where, in winters only, a torrent flowed. -In it were some stunted trees and scattered thickets of -shrubs. To the north of the river was a vast plain on -which the dry, yellow grass had been withered by summer -sun and wind. Far in the east appeared dimly -through a blue haze the summits of high mountains. -Westward the river had yet to flow half its length to -the Oxian swamps. Here it was wide and shallow and -its banks were low and marshy.</p> - -<p>The rays of the sun sparkled on the brazen breastplates -and shining blades of battle-axes, on the spear-points<span class="pagenum" id="Page_2">[2]</span> -and gilded helmets, of two hundred thousand men, -who here awaited the approach of a far more numerous -host coming down from the east along the river towards -them. The light rested softly upon the stern, bearded -faces of veterans of many wars and the softer cheeks of -young men on this, their first campaign. They were men -of Iran for the most part, though some were Assyrians, -Babylonians, Arabs, Hebrews, or Greeks from the -Ionian cities. They were followers of Cyrus, the King -of Kings, the Great King, ever victorious Lord of the -World.</p> - -<p>Those about to attack them were Touranian horsemen, -known to ancient history as Scythians, Massagetæ, Sacæ, -and to modern history as Tartars, Turks, or Kalmuks. -The hearts of the soldiers of Cyrus were glad. For -the long, dusty marches in pursuit of an ever retreating -enemy would now end in a riot of blood and slaughter, -and perhaps they might then set their faces homeward. -No doubt of victory entered their minds. They were -led by Cyrus, the invincible. It mattered not if the -enemy outnumbered them three to one, as their scouts -had reported. There would be more killing and a -greater victory.</p> - -<p>Racial hatred, reaching back beyond history and tradition -to the distant age when the first family of man -threw off branches to different parts of the earth and -the branches immediately claimed the pleasant places -and fought each other for them, animated both parties -to the coming conflict. The folklore of the early Aryans -is largely composed of tales concerning heroes who had -saved their people from the ravages of those fierce men -of the North, the Touranians. Century after century the -wandering hordes of the great northern plains hovered, -like threatening clouds, along the boundaries of Iran,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_3">[3]</span> -looking across the mountains from their own arid and -wind-swept abodes to the rich and pleasant hills and valleys -of the South. The children of those tribes, in the -days of Tamerlane and Mohammed, broke over all barriers, -crushed Eastern civilization, and put back the clock -of progress a thousand years.</p> - -<p>Once even before the time of Cyrus, the wild Touranians -had passed over the mountains and pushed -through into Mesopotamia, bearing woe to the nations. -Then, one day, their captains sat down to a banquet prepared -by the conquered ones and instead of meats were -fed with sword-blows and dagger-thrusts. Having thus -been deprived of leaders, the Touranian conquerors had -suffered disaster; and all had been either killed, enslaved, -or driven back across the mountains. Stories of that -invasion were thereafter told at every fireside of the -Bactrians, Medes, Persians, and their kindred tribes; and -the mothers in Iran frightened their children into obedience -by threatening to hand them over to the dreaded -monsters of Touran.</p> - -<p>Having conquered all civilized Asia, Cyrus had -thought to rest in his palaces at Hamadan, or Susa, -Babylon, or Pasargadæ; but there had come word from -ancient Balk, or Bactra, the mother city of all Aryans, -warning him that the Touranians were gathering for war -in numbers so immense that help must be sent. The -great war-king had at once responded. With half a -million men he had marched into Bactra, to the aid of -King Hystaspis, who, under him, ruled there, and, passing -through the mountains on its northern border, he -had driven back the leading troops of the enemy. The -Touranians had retreated, seeking to draw him into the -great plains, where they hoped that they might crush -him with overwhelming numbers. He had followed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_4">[4]</span> -carefully, building forts as he advanced, that his supply-line -might be safe, and leaving strong detachments to -guard them. With less than half his army, though its -best part, he had arrived at the great river, Jaxartes, -and had waited there for the enemy to assemble and -attack him. Now they were coming and he was ready.</p> - -<p>Cyrus had chosen the battle-ground. He had marched -out of his camp, situated a mile or so down the river, -and had taken position where the narrow plain enabled -him to mass his forces, with the sand-hills to protect his -right, the river his left, and the dry water-course his -front. The enemy, coming down towards him, would -be compressed into an ever narrowing field where their -immense superiority in numbers would not give them -undue advantage. Knowing that the Touranians were -all mounted and were accustomed to charge in mass at -headlong speed, he hoped to draw them into the great -ditch at his front in such confusion that the impetus of -their assault would be broken. For this purpose he -threw out to the east of the ditch about one thousand -paces a curtain of light cavalry, which had orders to draw -an assault, retreat rapidly before it, and take refuge -behind the infantry. The position of the infantry was -a line about halfway down the western slope of the -water-course, and it would not be perceived by the pursuers -until they should arrive at the upper margin of -the eastern slope. Keeping five thousand of his heavy -cavalry, known as the Imperial Guard, in reserve on the -high ground at his extreme left near the river, he had -stationed the remainder, about fifteen thousand strong, -behind the crests of the sand-hills at his extreme right; -and it would be their duty as soon as the Touranians -should join battle, to make a détour to the right, descend -from the hills upon their rear, and there attack. Thus,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_5">[5]</span> -by the grace of Ahura-Mazda, Cyrus hoped, the enemy -would be placed between his veteran infantry and his -invincible cavalry, and so be ground to pieces.</p> - -<p>Near the margin of the river in front of the army -was a group of men whose dress and demeanor denoted -them leaders. One of these, to whom the others gave -worshipful attention, was mounted on a noble Nisæan -stallion. He was watching the distant mass of enemies -with searching attention. He seemed indeed a king and -worthy to be a King of Kings. Historians and storytellers -have surrounded him with heroic luster. His -countenance was eagle-like. His forehead was high, his -nose sharp and slightly bridged, and his chin firm. The -piercing glance of his black eyes never failed to read -men nor to impress them with the necessity of instant -obedience to orders. His demeanor was humorous and -kind toward friends but fierce and terrible to evil-doers or -to an enemy. Despite his sixty years, forty of which had -been spent in war, his body was erect and soldierly. A -helmet, glittering with gold, was on his head, and from -beneath it his straight gray hair fell to the collar of his -cloak. A white, silky beard covered the lower portion -of his face and lay upon the silver breast-scales of the -flexible coat-of-mail which covered his body and hips. -Brazen greaves, fastened to soft leathern breeches, protected -his limbs. His only weapon was a short sword, -pendent from a belt around his waist. The trappings of -his horse were rich. Its chest and neck were also protected -by link mail.</p> - -<p>In the group of officers surrounding the Great King, -there were two of no less royal birth than he. One was -Hystaspis, King of Iran, his cousin, one of the Achæmenides, -the family that had ruled in Iran for ages. -Cyrus had been King of Fars, or Persia, before he became<span class="pagenum" id="Page_6">[6]</span> -King of Kings. Hystaspis had ruled in Bactra, -the ancient seat of the Aryan race. Astyages was king -of Medea and grandfather of Cyrus, whose mother was -a Medean princess. He claimed suzerainty over all -Iran. Cyrus had conquered his grandfather in war and, -having dethroned him, had stepped up into the exalted -position of King of Kings. He had then placed Persia -under control of Hystaspis, who loyally supported him -and acknowledged him as the overlord of all Iran. Cyrus -was a warrior. Hystaspis was a student, a lover of -peace and a mystic, though he ruled his people well as a -statesman and showed qualities of a great warrior when -necessity demanded. In his youthful days he had known -the famous Zoroaster, the seer of Iran, who had reduced -to writing the ancient songs and the ritual of religious -worship of his race and had preached new life into its -creed. Hystaspis was milder, more benevolent, and less -alight with energy than Cyrus.</p> - -<p>Prince Darius Hystaspis, son of the King of Iran, -was the other royal person in the group. He had dismounted -from his war-horse and, with folded arms, was -standing at its head, also watching the enemy. Six feet -in height and well-proportioned, youthful and gallant, he -was an ideal soldier. A helmet of gold and silver leaves -covered his black, short-cropped hair save at the temples. -A coat of leaf-mail protected his chest and his -limbs halfway to the knee and was confined at his waist -by a broad leather belt studded with gems set in golden -buttons. A bronze plate further protected his breast, -and greaves of the same metal were fastened to his -leather riding-breeches as a protection to his legs. High-laced -leather shoes encased his feet. A short sword hung -at his belt, and a short-handled battle-ax swung from the -saddle on his horse. A soldier from boyhood and already<span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">[7]</span> -a veteran, having served in Cyrus’ last campaign -against Babylon, yet he was, like his father, a student, -and had learned wisdom of the greatest seer of that age, -Belteshazzer, the Hebrew. His shaven cheeks were fair -and glowing with the health of right living. His eyes -were blue and clear and were set deeply beneath dark -eyebrows and a lofty forehead. He was the idol of all -Aryans, and, next to Cyrus, the hero of the army. He -was commander of the Imperial Guard, and to him had -been entrusted the duty of leading the Guard in the flank -movement by which Cyrus hoped to crush the enemy.</p> - -<p>Otanes, a giant in size, the noblest of Iran’s seven -great nobles, was another of the group. He was shield-bearer -to Cyrus and commander of his chosen body-guard. -There was also Hydarnes, another of the seven -nobles, a short, heavy man whose long, upturned mustache -and beetling eyebrows were his most prominent -features. He was commander of the Persian infantry. -Vomisces, one of the seven nobles and commander of the -allied infantry, the Babylonian, Assyrian, and Hebrew -levies, and Gobryas, another one of the seven, a young -man, blood-brother and closest friend of Prince Darius, -were in the group. There was also Prexaspes, a Medean -noble, commander of the light-armed cavalry, a brave, -ambitious man, richly dressed in jeweled armor and having -his hair and whiskers curled and perfumed. He -was a cynical, unscrupulous, and pleasure-loving man, but -energetic, resourceful, and brave. Of him we shall hear -much in this story. A number of orderlies waited near -by to receive and transmit the Great King’s commands.</p> - -<p>The herons in the Jaxartes have become restless but -have not yet flown. While they wait and while Cyrus -is watching the enemy, we may study the private soldiers -to whose blows he will owe his victory, if he wins. They<span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">[8]</span> -were not of the same quality as those effeminate men -who, in later years, were unable to withstand the Greeks -under the great Alexander. This was true at least of -the Aryans who constituted the bulk of the army.</p> - -<p>Passing along the front of the light-armed cavalry, we -observe the dusky Arab, with his curved scimiter and long -javelin, his bow and arrows. He is clothed in turban, -short tunic, loose cloak, brazen breastplate, and leathern -breeches. He is mounted on the beautiful, swift horse -of the desert which he loves as his own brother. Here -also we see famous bowmen from Edom and Canaan, -slingers from the Mediterranean isles, and Syrians from -Mesopotamia, severally arrayed in their national costumes. -When we pass along the lines of infantry, we -note a distinctive army dress. Each soldier wears on his -head a high, round felt cap; on his body, a stout, leathern, -tight-fitting jacket, or tunic, with skirt extending halfway -to the knee, and on his legs linen trousers, confined at the -ankles by the tops of the soft leathern shoes with which -his feet are shod. A bronze breastplate covers his chest, -and bars of the same metal are on his arms and shoulders. -The front rank, as it stands in position, is protected by -wicker shields, covered with heavy leather, braced with -metal bands. These shields are about seven feet long and -are placed upright with the pointed lower ends thrust -into the earth. Behind them, as a wall, the spearmen are -comparatively safe from the enemy’s javelins and arrows. -If the fight comes to close quarters, the shields -may be easily thrown down; then for his further protection, -the soldier must rely on a small, round targe held -in place by straps on his left forearm.</p> - -<p>Each heavy-armed infantryman in the six front ranks -carries a heavy spear about seven feet long and a short -sword somewhat like a long dagger. A short-handled<span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">[9]</span> -battle-ax with sharp, shearing blade and pointed beak is -hung by a strap over his shoulder. The soldiers in the -rear ranks, instead of the heavy spear and battle-ax, -carry bundles of light javelins, for casting at short range, -and long bows with sheaths of arrows, for fighting at -long range. Protected by the wicker wall and the -hedge of spears in the fore, they will meet the assault -with showers of darts cast over the front ranks or, advancing -behind the charging spearmen, will gall the -enemy thus before the shock of the hand-to-hand fight -comes.</p> - -<p>At intervals along the lines stand the captains of hundreds -and commanders of thousands, distinguished from -private soldiers only by richer armor and plumes of horse-hair -on their caps.</p> - -<p>We next note the soldiers of the Imperial Guard. They -are all large men, none of them over forty years of age, -every one of noble birth, and all belong to the military -class of Iran. They know but one calling, that of arms. -All had entered military service at the age of sixteen, had -been enrolled in the Guards at the age of twenty, and will -remain there until they shall reach their fortieth year, at -which time they will either be made civil officers or promoted -and placed in command of companies and divisions -of the imperial armies. Their armor consists of brazen -helmets for their heads, chain-mail for their bodies, and -brazen greaves for their legs and arms. A round shield, -held on the left forearm in battle, will give further protection. -A long, sharp javelin, a sword, and a battle-ax -are their weapons. Their horses are protected by chain-mail -on neck, forehead, and breast.</p> - -<p>Cyrus, having satisfied himself that the Touranians -were really coming to battle, turned to his generals and -said: “At last the Touranians have decided to fight!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">[10]</span> -We must not only repel this attack but must utterly destroy -them, so that hereafter the terror of our name shall -command peace! Take no prisoners! This day we shall -avenge the wrongs of Iran in the death of its ancient enemies! -Should it happen that I be slain in this battle, my -cousin, the King of Iran, will command. In case he also -should fall, his son, our beloved Prince, will command.”</p> - -<p>His piercing black eyes rested a moment upon the -Prince’s countenance. The latter flushed with pleasure at -the honor done him, and bowed in acknowledgment. The -King continued: “The King of Iran will remain at my -side. I shall need his advice. There will be no change -in the plans announced last evening. With the help of -Ahura-Mazda, this day we will fill that torrent-bed with -Touranian dead! You, Prince of Iran, have the most -important duty. Ride down upon their rear as soon as -you see their front ranks engaged with our infantry. Officers, -go to your places! Let the skirmishers advance -farther into the plain!”</p> - -<p>The group scattered, each officer riding to his place. -Cyrus and the King of Iran retired across the torrent-bed -to the eminence at the rear of the left wing of the -army. The Prince of Iran mounted and hurried to his -command. Trumpets sounded. The light cavalry of the -skirmish line moved briskly out upon the plain. The Touranians -came on, a vast throng with but little semblance -of order. Their leaders rode in advance at intervals, and -the front ranks only preserved an irregular alignment. -The two opposing forces slowly drew near each other. -The shaggy coats made of hairy skins, the tall, peaked -caps, and the fierce, dark faces of the Touranians soon -became plainly visible to their opponents. The former -were surprised at the apparent weakness of the latter and -began to utter shouts of derision and defiance. These<span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">[11]</span> -shouts presently blended into a great roar as the soldiers -demanded of their leaders the right to charge.</p> - -<p>But the Touranian leaders were wary. They thought -that but a fraction of the Persian army was here, possibly -an advance guard sent out to delay their progress. -They were puzzled and hesitated. But when the enemy -halted at long bowshot distance and sent a flight of arrows -into their crowded battalions, they lost control of -their men. Screams of agony arose, and a roar of angry -shouts. Another flight of arrows and a third smote the -Touranians. Their own bowmen sought to reply, but -their bows were weak and their arrows fell short. Then -came a vast forward movement of the mass. Leaders -were swallowed up in the midst of galloping squadrons. -The skirmishers of Iran retreated, but turned in their -saddles and shot backwards with fatal effect. Eager to -overtake the flying archers, the Touranians threw caution -to the winds and urged their horses to full speed. The -earth shook with the beat of a million hoofs, and the air -was rent by the terrific volume of savage war-cries. No -line of infantry ever formed could have withstood the -impetus of that charge if unprotected by ditch or wall.</p> - -<p>The herons, affrighted, spread their broad wings, -sprang out of the yellow waters of the Jaxartes, and -hastily flapped away. The conflict had begun.</p> - -<p>After pausing at the margin of the torrent-bed to send -one last flight of arrows into their pursuers, the skirmishers -of Cyrus quickly descended into and crossed it, -passed through the ranks of the infantry, which opened -to permit their passage, and formed in line on the ridge -beyond. The Touranian leaders were surprised when the -fugitives disappeared from their view in the chasm as if -the earth had swallowed them up, and, guessing the reason, -frantically screamed orders for their men to halt.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">[12]</span> -But the noise was so great that the orders were unheard. -The shaggy horses of the leading ranks came at full -speed to the margin of the torrent-bed and, unable to halt, -plunged headlong down into it. Many horses and riders -went down and were ridden over, crushed and mangled. -Some retained their footing and struggled across the bottom -of the ditch and up the opposite slope to assault the -Aryan infantry. But the momentum of their rush was -lost. The gleaming hedge of spears, protruding from -behind the wicker shields, was terrible to horse and rider. -The Touranians struck at the spear-points with their -curved scimiters and endeavored to force ways between -them. Masses of horsemen poured into the great ditch -and struggled forward. Pushed on from behind, those in -front could not avoid contact with the darting spears, -which, in the hands of sinewy and practiced veterans, -gashed horse and rider and threw them down in dying, -struggling heaps.</p> - -<p>The rear ranks of Cyrus’ army came into action. They -hurled clouds of javelins and arrows over the heads of -the men in front upon the confused mass of assailants. -The slaughter was horrible. But the Touranians in the -front could not retreat had they desired. Those in front -were crowded on, over dead and dying, upon the darting -spears and against the wicker shields, overthrowing the -shields and pushing back the Aryan infantry by sheer -weight. Especially at the extreme left, where Cyrus was -watching the struggle, did this backward movement of -his lines take place. Here the water-course was wider -and shallower than elsewhere and the advance was not so -difficult. Here and there the Touranians succeeded in -getting between the Aryan spears and with fierce strokes -opened ways into the midst of the infantry. The latter, -dropping their spears, fought with battle-ax and sword.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">[13]</span> -The contest became a mad swirl of screaming, plunging -horses, shouting men, gleaming swords, and slashing axes. -Heads were crushed, limbs lopped off, bodies hurled -to earth, horses brained and hamstrung. Ever the stout -veterans of Cyrus faced their enemy, unterrified, sweating, -grunting, and cursing, as they stabbed and hewed; -but they were forced back step by step.</p> - -<p>Cyrus watched the struggle with anxiety. There -seemed no end to the on-pressing masses of the enemy. -More and yet more poured down into the vale of death -and pushed across to the assault. Javelins and arrows -were becoming exhausted. The infantrymen were fighting -furiously, but were beginning to show weariness. -Casting his eyes often to the distant hills, he presently -noted with satisfaction that the Prince of Iran and his -guards were passing down into the plain at the rear of -the enemy’s left. He then ordered the light-armed cavalry -to the assistance of the infantry at the center and -right, and placing himself at the head of that division of -the Imperial Guard held in reserve, he led it into the affray -just as the infantry, pressed back by sheer weight -of numbers, seemed about to be overwhelmed. The -heavy horsemen of the Guard rode forward smartly and -plunged into the battle. Prodigies of valor were performed. -The infantrymen, seeing their King in their -midst swinging his battle-ax with deadly effect, renewed -their efforts. Huge Otanes with mighty strokes and protecting -shield endeavored to ward off from Cyrus all -blows aimed at him. King Hystaspis of Iran rode along -the battle-lines towards the right. Everywhere the battle -was close, fierce, and deadly.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile the Prince of Iran with the Guard rode -down into the plain, and with javelins at rest charged the -Touranians in flank and rear. This soon relieved the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">[14]</span> -pressure in front. Confusion and terror seized the Touranians. -Those who sought to resist went down before -the shock of the huge Persian horses and the thrust of the -long javelins.</p> - -<p>The contest became a slaughter. Thousands of the -luckless Touranians rode into the river, seeking to ford -it and thus escape; but quicksands and treacherous water-holes -swallowed them up or mired them down, so that -they became easy prey to the pursuing archers. The -Aryan infantry assumed the offensive, crossed the torrent-bed, -and drove the Touranians back upon the lances -of the Guard, who in turn hurled them back upon the infantry. -The larger part died. Some broke through and -fled. The noon sun looked down upon heaps of slain -and wounded, upon despairing squads flying over hill and -plain, and upon a river whose waters were red with blood -and choked with bodies. The Aryan victory was complete, -overwhelming, and decisive.</p> - -<p>But the victors also suffered. Their loss was heavy in -men, but worst of all they had lost their Great King. -Cyrus at the head of the Guard had ridden into the press -and restored the battle. When the assault on their rear -caused the Touranians to give back, he had followed furiously. -Then an arrow struck him in the neck just above -the collar of his coat-of-mail, inflicting a deep wound. -He reeled from the shock, plucked out the weapon with -his own hands, and then fell fainting from his horse into -the arms of Otanes, who carried him back out of the -battle.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">[15]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER II<br /> - - -<small>AN OATH</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">THE wounded King was tenderly borne to his pavilion -in the camp, and his injury was dressed by -the most skillful surgeons in the army. He was weakened -by loss of blood, however, and suffered much pain. -He became feverish. The surgeons had but little skill in -those days; and the wound was deep and infected. He -suffered the pain with heroic resignation and, after a -while, fell into a restless sleep, in which he tossed about -and muttered continually.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile the King of Iran, having taken chief command, -pushed the victory to completion and recalled the -troops to their camp from the bloody plain only when the -last enemy had disappeared or died.</p> - -<p>Prince Darius and the Imperial Guard pursued the -fugitives as long as they held together in a body, but when -they scattered, some crossing the Jaxartes and others taking -refuge in the southern hills where it was difficult to -follow them with heavy horse, he left further pursuit to -the light-armed cavalry and returned to camp with his -shouting, singing troopers. He did not learn of the -King’s condition until within bowshot of camp, where an -orderly from his father met him bearing the sad news. -At once the shouts and songs of his troopers were turned -to sighs and tears. They entered the camp in silence. -They were dusty, blood-stained, and weary, and their joy -of victory had given place to dejection. The Great King’s<span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">[16]</span> -headquarters were in the midst of the camp. The Prince -caused his battalions to form around the pavilion in a -square, with their faces toward it. Then, leaving them -still mounted, he went in to inquire concerning the King’s -condition.</p> - -<p>It was almost sundown. The herons, which had fled -away in the morning, were now returning with heavy -wings to the marshes along the river. They did not -alight, however, but hurriedly flapped away when they -found the marshes filled with the dead bodies of men and -horses.</p> - -<p>The Prince found the chief captains of the army assembled -in the outer room of the pavilion. His father -was wearily reclining on a couch, while the others stood -near in whispering groups; but he rose as the Prince entered, -and embraced him and kissed his cheeks, exclaiming:</p> - -<p>“My son, to the Guard belongs much of the glory of -our great victory. Never have I seen a movement so -well made or a blow struck at more opportune time. -But alas for the Great King! He is sorely wounded and -has a fever. He is now sleeping, but he mutters and -tosses in his sleep.”</p> - -<p>“May we go in and see him? The Guard waits anxiously -to hear his condition,” inquired the Prince.</p> - -<p>The King of Iran called the chief surgeon out of the -inner room where the wounded monarch lay and, after a -whispered consultation with him, bade his son follow and -went into the inner room with him. The stricken man -lay on a silk-covered couch, apparently asleep, while an -attendant waved a fan above his head. Aroused by their -entrance, the Great King opened his eyes, half-raised himself -upon his elbow, and stared wildly at them. The surgeon -gently sought to repress his movements. He<span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">[17]</span> -quickly recognized the King of Iran and the Prince and -smiled as he sank back upon the couch.</p> - -<p>The surgeon bowed low before him and exclaimed: -“Let not my lord move! It may open the wound and -cause it to bleed afresh!”</p> - -<p>But Cyrus impatiently waved him aside, and said -weakly: “Let be! If I am to die, I die; if I am to live, -I will live! I have had a vision! Draw near, my good -cousin and my beloved Prince! Is the victory complete? -Did many escape?”</p> - -<p>The King of Iran answered: “It is your most glorious -victory, O King of Kings! Hundreds of thousands -of dead Touranians testify to the valor of your arms and -the effectiveness of your battle-plans.”</p> - -<p>“It is well!” he sighed. “To you, my beloved Prince, -is due the thanks of your King, of the army, of all Iran! -Oh, my heart leaped when I saw the Guard with spears -at rest ride down upon the enemy! It was then that I -rushed into the battle. Now I lie here! So be it! I -know that I am about to die. I have had a vision. Now -I would see the sun set, lest I never see it again. Cause -the curtains to be rolled up. This close air stifles me!”</p> - -<p>Servants quickly rolled up the heavy side-curtains of -the pavilion. At a motion of the sufferer the Prince -knelt by his side, placed an arm beneath his shoulders, -and gently raised him. Instantly the Guards, standing at -attention about the tent, uncovered their heads, bowed to -their horses’ necks, and roared out a salute, while tears -streamed down their grimy cheeks and many wept aloud. -The men of Iran were emotional, weeping or laughing -like children as the mood seized them. The Great King -smiled upon them and feebly waved his hand in greeting. -He whispered to the Prince:</p> - -<p>“How they love me! It is sweet to die surrounded by<span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">[18]</span> -those who love you. Ah, if I might now have my children -here! I would give them a parting blessing and die -in peace. My sweet daughters, Athura, the wise, and -Artistone, my babe! Bardya, my strong Prince, and -Cambyses,— But, lay me down! The sun is setting! -So sets my life!”</p> - -<p>“Say not so, my lord!” exclaimed the Prince, his eyes -swimming in tears. “It has been a glorious day!”</p> - -<p>“True, my son! And the wrongs of Iran have been -avenged. A nation of warriors has been wiped out. No -more will the Tourans threaten my people. We shall -make this river the boundary of our empire. Fortresses -and cities must be built along it so that never again may -the yellow men of the plains carry desolation south of it. -Advise my sons to this policy. Nay, tell them I have ordered -it so!”</p> - -<p>The Great King closed his eyes. The tent-sides were -then dropped. The troopers dismounted and went into -camp, satisfied to have seen the King alive, and praying -to Ahura-Mazda, Giver of Life, that he might recover. -The King of Iran, with uncovered head, stood for a -while looking down upon the sufferer, while his son still -knelt at the side of the couch. Presently Cyrus opened -his eyes and looked intently upon the sad countenance of -the Prince.</p> - -<p>“Would that you were my own son, Darius Hystaspis!” -he exclaimed. “I love you well and I know that -you have deserved well of me. Ask of me what you will. -It shall be decreed ere I die!”</p> - -<p>The Prince bowed his head till his forehead touched -the King’s hands, which nervously clasped his own strong -right hand between their palms. Then he looked up into -the grave eyes of his father inquiringly. The latter indicated -by a nod that he should speak what was in his -mind.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">[19]</span>“O King of Kings,” he said, “you have been as a -father to me! If I have found favor with you, let my -reward be very great! I ask no less than that you will -give me for my wife your daughter, Athura!”</p> - -<p>Cyrus was greatly pleased. He smiled approvingly as -he answered: “Truly you ask much! But not too -much; and you shall have her, if she so wills. I doubt -not that she will gladly consent. She must marry whom -she will. Her mother married me even against her -father’s will and she was ever the light and joy of life to -me. In her love I rejoiced all the days of her life. I -have given her no successor. I go to meet her soon. I -rejoice to call you son. Would that Athura were here -to wed you now! I pledge her to you. Now I have a -request to make of you, and your royal father. I constituted -my son, Cambyses, regent in my absence, that he -might learn to rule. My soul is exceedingly anxious -concerning him. His passions are great; he is violent -and he endures no opposition to his will. He will need -advisers and supporters. My son, Bardya, is of better -nature; he is brave but impulsive. Much have I thought -of them. It will depend upon you two, King and Prince -of Iran, whether the family of Cyrus shall continue to -reign. This I have seen. I ask of you that you will -pledge me your royal oaths that, as long as Cambyses or -Bardya live, you will support them on my throne—Cambyses -first, and Bardya second.”</p> - -<p>He ceased. The Prince again looked up to his father, -who had listened attentively and who now spoke without -hesitation: “My son, we are Kings of Iran only. Cyrus, -our cousin, is King of Kings. By his own genius he -has made this great empire. It is his. He conquered it. -He extended his scepter over other peoples. We forfeit -none of our hereditary rights by swearing as he requests. -As for me, I am ready to swear!”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">[20]</span>“And I also!” added the Prince.</p> - -<p>The Great King extended his two hands and took the -right hands of father and son between his palms, saying, -“Is it an oath in the hearing of Ahura-Mazda and His -recording angel?”</p> - -<p>“It is an oath!” they solemnly answered.</p> - -<p>“It is well,” said the King, releasing them. “May -Shraosha, the swift messenger of God, take those oaths -and register them in heaven! Now I will tell of my -vision. I saw Mount Demavend, and, upon its snowy -summit, I beheld a great eagle. He spread his wings -and, behold! they reached across all the heavens and their -shadow covered the earth. The countenance of the eagle, -Prince Darius, when I closely observed it, was your countenance. -Shall it come to pass that you will overshadow -the world? Or will you spread your protecting wings in -days to come over this empire and by your help shall my -sons reign well? Ahura-Mazda knows! Let his will be -done!”</p> - -<p>The King’s weak voice ceased. He closed his eyes. -The Prince and his father remained silent. A rising wind -touched the tent and made it quiver. In the adjacent -room was a low murmur of conversation. After a moment’s -silence the Great King again opened his eyes and -continued:</p> - -<p>“Since this empire of mine is new and my will has -been its law, there are no laws by which succession to my -throne may be regulated. By right of birth, Cambyses -should succeed to the supreme power. Yet I am not -happy in him. He is inclined to evil ways and regards -not the customs of our race. He runs after the folly of -the Medes. He seeks the pleasures of Babylon. I have -thought much on this. Perhaps it would be just that he -should be given Medea, Susiana, Babylonia, and all the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">[21]</span> -western provinces to rule, since their customs he follows. -Bardya is not so. He loves our ancient customs. To him -I will give supreme rule over Iran and the provinces of -Hind, of Hyrcania, and the Scyths and of all our eastern -conquests; but he shall acknowledge Cambyses as overlord -of the world, aiding him with an army in war, but -undisturbed by him in peace. Thus will I do justly and -satisfy all Iran, whose people love not Cambyses. I will -make a testament and a decree ere I die. Call hither my -scribe. I would relieve my mind of care by making such -decree. Call in the nobles of Iran to hear my will!”</p> - -<p>The scribe came. The nobles of Iran entered the -room. They saw the King’s will written down on Egyptian -papyrus. Two copies were made. The King signed -them and impressed thereon his seal. Then, greatly exhausted, -he indicated that he would be alone; and all left -his presence to seek refreshment after the day of toil, and -to discuss the Great King’s last decree.</p> - -<p>It was the duty of the Prince, as commander of the Imperial -Guard, to appoint the watches at the King’s pavilion. -Otanes, the King’s shield-bearer and personal -guard, slept in the outer room and stood at the door on -state occasions. There were usually with Otanes several -noble youths who acted as pages or orderlies to the Great -King. But on this night the King of Iran and several others -of the nobility kept silent watch in the outer room, -anxiously consulting the surgeons as they went in and out -upon their ministrations. The Prince, after setting a -double guard around the pavilion, went alone down to the -river and for an hour slowly paced back and forth on the -low bank along the shore. He wished to be alone with his -thoughts.</p> - -<p>A violent wind was blowing from the north. The lap -and wash of waves, thrown up by its power, and the rustle<span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">[22]</span> -of reeds and grass, were the only sounds coming to -his ears. The subdued noise of the vast encampment -drifted away behind him as he looked out across the -stream. The moon had not yet appeared. The stars -were dim and hazy behind dust-clouds raised by the great -wind. Alone thus, though thousands of men were near, -while the whispers of the moving air suggested the voices -of those wailing spirits released from their mortal bodies -in this day’s slaughter, the young man reviewed the past -and contemplated uneasily the future.</p> - -<p>First in his thoughts, as indeed she had been for years, -was Athura, eldest daughter of Cyrus, known to the -Greek historians as Atossa, the most famous, most beautiful, -and most queenlike woman of her age. He had -loved her from the day when he, a youth of fourteen, and -she, a child of ten years, had first met and played together -in the great park surrounding his father’s palace at Persepolis, -where she had come to visit with her mother, the -queen. She had often been his companion in sports since -the time he had entered the service of the Great King, -as a page. Lately he had not seen her often, as his service -in the Imperial Guard had called him away to the wars. -But, when he had last met her in the ancient city, Bactra, -to which place she had accompanied her father when he -started on this expedition, they had made mutual avowals -of love and pledges of faith, subject to her father’s -consent. Now the expedition was ended. He had the -consent of Cyrus to their marriage. Happiness seemed to -be in store for him.</p> - -<p>But the future was not without clouds. Cyrus was -dying. What then? The hate-filled countenance of -Cambyses arose before his mind. The large, square body -of that Prince, the bullet head, the black, dull eye, the fat -face, usually expressive of scorn, he well remembered.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">[23]</span> -He seemed to hear again the brutal laugh, the bitter gibe -or threat, the coarse words, and the raucous tones of the -Prince, as he had heard them often when as boys they -played together. Cambyses had hated him, apparently -for no other reason than that he could not bully him as -he was accustomed to bully other boys. More than once -they had engaged in personal encounters; and the officers, -who ever guarded the King’s children, had to interfere -and separate them. Some of these combats had arisen -when he had gone to rescue Athura or Bardya from their -brother’s abuse. Cambyses also hated Bardya, whom Cyrus -loved. More than once Cyrus himself had inflicted -corporal punishment upon the elder Prince for abusing his -playmates, and in later years he had often caused him -to be confined in his room as a punishment. If Cyrus -should die, the violent, degraded, drunken Cambyses -would be King, with power absolute of life and death, and -able to wreak vengeance upon the royal brother and sisters, -as he had often sworn he would do, when he should -come into power.</p> - -<p>Prince Darius did not fear Cambyses. But if Cambyses -should disregard his father’s will and forbid the -marriage of Darius and Athura, what would be the result? -The Prince involuntarily laid his hand on the hilt -of his sword. Cambyses could be overthrown, since the -people and the army of Iran loved him not; and the -younger Prince Bardya would then reign. Bardya was -a friend of Darius and would approve the marriage. But -to the Prince came the remembrance of his oath to Cyrus. -He had sworn to uphold Cambyses. No matter -what the Prince should do or what wrong he should inflict -upon him or his friends, he must henceforth support -him on his throne! As the possibilities involved in that -oath occurred to his mind, the young man smote his<span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">[24]</span> -hands together and groaned. But he said to himself that -perhaps Cambyses, the King, would be different from -Cambyses, the man. In any event, the nobles of Iran and -the King, his father, would compel Cambyses to give -Athura to him. Cambyses would not dare refuse to regard -his own father’s pledge.</p> - -<p>The moon appeared, a dim, pale disk behind a veil of -flying dust. The wind increased in violence. Thin, -broken clouds floated across the sky. The river, vaguely -seen, was filled with choppy waves. The howl of a wolf -came faintly from beyond the stream. A great sadness, -a sense of impending danger, filled the soul of the Prince.</p> - -<p>A voice aroused him, saying, “Gracious Prince, the -King has awakened and is calling for you!” It was one -of the King’s pages who thus summoned him. Throwing -off his depression, he followed the youth into the tent, -pausing only at the door to direct the guards to take additional -precautions to prevent the wind from throwing -down the swaying shelter. The King turned a wan, pain-drawn -countenance towards him as he entered and beckoned -him to a low stool at the side of his couch.</p> - -<p>“My son,” he said, speaking slowly and with difficulty, -“I am unable to sleep. This wound pains me greatly and -the wind roars about the tent. I am very lonely. I seem -to stand naked and alone before God! I am about to -step out into the dark. I would have you near me. You -have been with me so many years that you are to me as -a son. Now that I have promised my daughter to you, -I have a double claim upon you. Sit here, unless you are -weary and must sleep. It has been a long, hard day, but -a glorious one for Iran!”</p> - -<p>“Father, I am not weary,” replied the Prince. “My -heart is heavy for you! I pray God you may recover! -Is the wound so bad, then? Once before you were hurt -in battle and recovered.”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">[25]</span>“This wound is fatal. It is poisoned. The weapon -that pierced me was unclean. Even now I feel it throb -and burn. I know the symptoms. I have watched many -a dying officer, wounded by unclean darts. But I am at -peace. I have been a man of war all my life; but I have -ever had right with me. I have lived uprightly and -wronged none. Justice has never been sold by me. Oppression -has been rebuked. I have crushed the rulers of -nations to free their people from tyranny and misrule. -I do not fear to die. I am an Aryan. Ahura-Mazda is -God and there is none other! My mind dwells much on -the future, my son. Discourse to me of that. You sat -at the feet of Belteshazzer, the wise, he that was chief -of the college of wisdom in Babylon. He talked to me -often of God and of his own people. I made a decree that -his people should be returned to their home at Jerusalem -and rebuild their temple to God. Call this to my son’s -remembrance, when you go to him, and say to him that -I lay it upon him to obey. What said Belteshazzer of -that which lies beyond death?”</p> - -<p>“He taught that the spirit continues to live after the -body dies.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, truly, so said he to me! But in that he agrees -with our Zoroaster.”</p> - -<p>“He taught much as did the great Master. Indeed, he -agrees that Ahura-Mazda, the Holy One, the Father of -Truth, the Life-Giving Spirit, is but another name for -the same God he worships as Jah, who is the Father -of all spirits and the Giver of Life. He teaches that -there is one God, a loving Father, the Eternal One; and -that in the far-distant past there were but one man and -one woman, from whom sprang all the races of men; and -that all worshiped one God, the Father of all; but that -many of their children have forgotten Him and have wandered<span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">[26]</span> -away, making Gods of their own imaginings. He -is a mighty prophet and holds communion with messengers -from God and with spirits.”</p> - -<p>“I have heard wonderful things of him, how that fire -will not burn him nor wild beasts harm him. What says -Zoroaster of the dying?”</p> - -<p>“He taught that Shraosha, the swift messenger, -stands ready to receive the soul and to conduct it over the -bridge that is straight and narrow into paradise, where -the great angel, Bohman, will greet it and say, ‘How -happy art thou who hast come hither from mortality to -immortality!’ Then will the soul enter upon eternal -blessedness.”</p> - -<p>“You said that Belteshazzer talks with unseen spirits -and is a mighty prophet. Do not the Magi also call up -the dead and prophesy?”</p> - -<p>“They say so, Sire. But Belteshazzer says that they -are liars and that their art is black. He admits that they -may talk with spirits, but accuses them of dealing with -demons and evil spirits. They worship the spirits who -inhabit the dark places of earth and work ill to men.”</p> - -<p>The Great King lay silent a moment with closed eyes. -At length, heaving a deep sigh, he said:</p> - -<p>“It is all a mystery! But I shall soon know. I am -troubled concerning Cambyses. I have heard that he has -dealings with the Magi and has attended their worship. -God forbid that he should fall into their hands! They -are a vile sect, regarding neither oath nor promise. They -prey upon the weak and superstitious. They would -throw down our ancient laws. I have not been intolerant -of others’ creeds or ever interfered with their religion. -Each nation has continued to worship God in its -own manner, giving obedience to me only in matters of -government. Can it be said that one God is better than<span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">[27]</span> -the other? How was I to judge the unknown things of -God? But I know that God rules, whether named -Ahura-Mazda, Jah, Merodach, Jove, or Ra. Men know -him not!”</p> - -<p>Again he fell silent, with closed eyes and pallid face -turned to the dim light of the lamps which hung from the -ridge-pole by chains, flaring in the currents of air and -swinging to and fro as the tent rocked under the shocks -of the mighty wind.</p> - -<p>Rousing himself again, he continued: “I feel that my -spirit will soon depart. When it does, I lay upon you -the task of conveying my body to Pasargadæ, where you -shall deposit it in a suitable tomb. Take half of the -Guard with you. Leave the remainder here with the -King, your father, who must finish the work I have begun -and establish fortresses along this river so that never -again may the Touranians recover the land we have conquered, -or further molest Iran. Let my body be entombed -after the fashion of our fathers. Take a -message to Bardya and say that I have blessed him. -Restrain him with your advice, that he do not rebel and -bring on war with his brother. Take my love and blessing -to Athura and Artistone. Into your care I give -Athura. May long years of happiness be yours! But -I am very weary and I would sleep. Sit here by me. -It is pleasant to know that you are near!”</p> - -<p>The King closed his eyes and sank into a stupor. The -Prince bent his head upon his hands and silently wept. -Presently becoming calmer, he sat still in meditation, -listening to the irregular breathing of the sufferer. -After a while he also slept, with his head resting on his -arms, which were folded across his knees. The hours -went by, while the great wind continued to bellow around -and to whip the awnings of the pavilion and while the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">[28]</span> -life of the Great King slowly flickered out. Darius was -awakened by the surgeons, who, alarmed at the long -silence in the sick-room, had come in to look at the -King.</p> - -<p>“Great Cyrus is dead!” he heard one of them say.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">[29]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER III<br /> - - -<small>PREXASPES</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">CYRUS, the Great King, had been conquered by a -greater King. The generals and nobles of his army -gathered in solemn council on the day following his -death. The King of Iran presided. On him, as upon -an anchor in a storm, the others depended; and it was in -the hearts of many to declare him successor to the mighty -dead. There was no love in their hearts towards -Cambyses, the heir. His open contempt for their ancient -customs and religion and his erratic and brutal disposition -had not attracted them. The army had given -the throne and his distinctive eminence as King of Kings -to Cyrus; it could give them to another, now that he was -gone, in spite of his expressed will.</p> - -<p>At the right hand of the King stood the Prince, his -son, his eyes heavy with sorrow. Otanes, Gobryas, -Hydarnes, Vomisces, and a score of Persians of lesser -note were there; and also Prexaspes, the Mede.</p> - -<p>As usual Prexaspes was carefully dressed; he was -ornate in golden, jewel-set armor and half enveloped in -a silken cloak, the famous Medean robe. His hair and -beard were curled and perfumed. He moved with exaggerated -grace and carried his fine head haughtily. -His brothers-in-arms could ill conceal their contempt for -his foppish manners. They were rough, ready men, -straight of look and direct of speech. They loved not an -Aryan who copied the manners of Babylon and Nineveh<span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">[30]</span> -and, as they suspected, the vices of those ultra-civilized -peoples. But they knew that Prexaspes was -a brave and able commander of horse and on that account -ignored his manners. He was a fair sample of -the higher classes of Medes, who, residing on the borders -of the more effeminate peoples of the great Mesopotamian -valley, had been infected by their manners and -customs.</p> - -<p>The Medes, in the former days, when they had conquered -the lands now occupied by them, had been sturdy, -simple people. Centuries of intercourse with the Assyrians -and Babylonians had materially changed their -qualities and had not only affected their dress and -manner of living, but had injected into their ancient religion, -which was a monotheistic creed, new ideas that -were polytheistic, much to the indignation of their -brethren of Persia and Bactra who still clung to the ancient -faith. The Medes had permitted the fire-worshipers -of the northern provinces to practice their occult arts -and had to some extent adopted those practices. There -had, as a consequence, grown up a priest class of Magi, -or seers, wise men, prophets, who claimed to communicate -with the gods of hill, mountain, and plain, and who -did undeniably work wonders that could not be duplicated -by the priests in the Aryan temples, and thereby -not only discomfited the latter in the eyes of the people, -but impressed the rulers of Medea in their favor.</p> - -<p>It was said that Prexaspes was a follower of the Magi, -but on that subject he adroitly avoided conversation. -Cyrus, whose policy had ever been to conciliate those he -conquered, had recognized the military ability of Prexaspes -and had forborne to examine closely into his creed -or his manner of life. In return the latter had given him -faithful service and had been extremely useful in dealing<span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">[31]</span> -with the Medean nobility and in recruiting for the -army.</p> - -<p>As soon as all who had been bidden were assembled, -the King of Iran addressed them briefly: “I have -called you together to consider the great calamity that -has befallen this army and the empire. Great Cyrus -sleeps with his fathers. The decisive victory of yesterday -resulted thus in greater loss to us than to the enemy. -The command of this army has fallen upon me until a -messenger can be sent to bring orders from Cambyses, -who, by the will of his august father, succeeds to the -throne of the King of Kings. It was the will of Cyrus -that we hold all this country and make the Jaxartes the -future boundary of Iran. It shall be done. We shall -remain here until the enemy shall fully submit, and we -shall build fortresses along this river. On this spot -where great Cyrus departed this life, let us found a city -named in honor of the Great King. It shall be a monument -to his glorious victory and a bulwark of the empire. -What say you?”</p> - -<p>He paused. Otanes, upon whom the King’s eyes -rested, answered: “Let it be so! Let the King’s will -be law!” Nods and exclamations of assent came from -the company.</p> - -<p>The King continued: “The Great King ordered that -his body be taken to Pasargadæ, there to rest in the -tomb prepared by him and in which rests the body of his -wife. He directed that my son take the Imperial Guard -for an escort and convey his body, when embalmed, to -its resting-place. This shall be done. As for me, I -shall remain here until the frontier be made safe. My -son shall select such of you as he desires to accompany -him on his honorable mission. It will be necessary to -send a special messenger to Cambyses with the Great<span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">[32]</span> -King’s last decree. He shall travel with the Guard and -my son until he reach Bactra; but then he must go more -swiftly, in order that Cambyses may make fitting preparation -for the funeral of his father. Who will volunteer -for this service?”</p> - -<p>Silence fell upon the company. There was no desire -in any of them to greet Cambyses. They would rather -have deposed him. But Prexaspes stood forth and said: -“O King, if it please you, I will bear the message to -Cambyses, the King of Kings.”</p> - -<p>The King regarded Prexaspes a moment thoughtfully. -He liked not this man, but he could think of no reason to -deny him. He said:</p> - -<p>“You shall go. But swear before us here that you -will faithfully carry to Cambyses this decree and assure -him of our support!”</p> - -<p>“I swear!” responded Prexaspes, solemnly, lifting -both hands towards the sun and turning his face to it. -A frown passed over the calm features of the King. -He liked not this exhibition of Mithra worship. But he -made no comment, only saying:</p> - -<p>“Say to the Great King, Cambyses, that I, Hystaspis, -King of Iran, have sworn to support him and his brother -on their thrones according to the will of Cyrus; and my -word shall be kept! Advise him also that the ancient -laws and customs in Iran must not be disregarded. His -great father gave heed to them; and on them the Aryan -peoples lay great weight. In their observance will he -gain strength; and the men of Iran will in return dash -to pieces his enemies. Do I not speak truth?”</p> - -<p>The speaker’s eyes glanced inquiringly over the company. -The black, sparkling eyes of Prexaspes likewise -swept over it and noted the expression on every countenance. -Nods of approval and unanimous spoken assent<span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">[33]</span> -indicated the sentiment of all. Prexaspes, bowing low -before the King, answered:</p> - -<p>“I will exactly report your words, O King! I shall -take great pleasure in assuring the Great King that all -here are his loyal supporters.”</p> - -<p>The King was about to dismiss the council, when a -messenger rode up from the east in great haste. He was -from the pickets stationed near the battlefield. The -King waited till he had dismounted and drawn near.</p> - -<p>“A message, gracious King, from Captain Mardux -of the scouts!” cried the messenger, bowing low till his -hands touched the earth.</p> - -<p>“Speak!” commanded the King.</p> - -<p>“The captain is approaching with a company of Touran -princes, who come to the Great King to tender submission. -He has halted at the outer limits of the camp -to await your orders. Shall he slay them or bring them -hither?”</p> - -<p>“Bring them hither!”</p> - -<p>The messenger again bowed low, backed from the -circle, and sprang on his horse. As soon as he was -gone, the King said:</p> - -<p>“It will be best not to inform these men of the death -of Cyrus. No lie need be spoken. But I am the King. -Cyrus is not dead but sleepeth. Send hither an interpreter.”</p> - -<p>Gobryas, to whom the last command was spoken, departed -to summon an interpreter. Meanwhile the King -caused a purple-covered chair to be brought out and -placed on a platform made of camp-chests covered with -a costly rug. In this he seated himself, and with his son -at his right hand, Otanes at his left, and the other nobles -near, all dressed in glittering mail and fully armed, he -was ready to receive and impress the coming delegation.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">[34]</span> -A glittering crown of gold studded with gems, high and -pointed, like the miter of a priest, was placed on his -head. In his hand was a scepter, a silver rod tipped with -a golden pomegranate. Right royal was his aspect; and -the stern countenances of his captains added to the impressiveness -of the scene.</p> - -<p>Captain Mardux, a stout, bluff soldier, who had won -his promotion from the ranks by prowess and shrewdness, -presently rode up with a company of cavalry, -escorting five men of swarthy countenance, long-haired, -almond-eyed, mounted on powerful ponies, sitting on -goatskins instead of saddles, and clothed in silken garments -and pointed fur caps. The captain caused them -to dismount and led them before the King, where, in -obedience to an expressive gesture of the captain’s hands, -they threw themselves flat upon the earth in salutation. -Here they lay face-downward while the captain reported -as follows:</p> - -<p>“These dogs, O King, came to us with hands in air, -showing themselves unarmed and asked to be taken to -the Great King. I know some words of their language -and so understood that they come as messengers from -the Tourans.”</p> - -<p>“It is well, Mardux. Bid them rise to their knees.”</p> - -<p>Captain Mardux roused the prostrate men with his toe -and made them assume a kneeling posture. From this -position, they glanced with ferret eyes at the King and -his supporters. They were evidently greatly impressed, -but their sullen countenances exhibited no fear. Gobryas -now appeared with an interpreter, a man of Bactra -who had conducted trading expeditions over the great -plains in more peaceable days. Thereupon the following -colloquy occurred between the King and one of -them:</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">[35]</span>“Who are you and whence come you?”</p> - -<p>“We are messengers of the Queen of the Massagetæ. -We come from her encampment, a day’s journey eastward.”</p> - -<p>“What seek you?”</p> - -<p>“We come to greet the Great King, Cyrus, whose -power even the gods cannot withstand. Behold! our -King is dead on yonder field, and the King’s son is dead. -Our people are broken. The bodies of our slain choke -the great river. Only old men and children are left. -Who can withstand Cyrus? Like the lightning and the -whirlwind he sweeps up from the south! He smites -and men are not! We come to tender unto him a handful -of earth, a broken twig, and a cup of water, and to -ask his pardon, that we may henceforth be his men and -live under the shadow of his arms.”</p> - -<p>“Cyrus, the Great King, sleeps and we cannot -awaken him. Behold me, the King of Iran, Hystaspis! -I will receive your tokens of submission.”</p> - -<p>“It is well! We know of you, O King of Iran, surnamed -the Just. Have we not heard of your strong arm -and most just and merciful heart? If it be permitted, -we will arise and present to you our tokens of submission, -asking mercy for our remnant of people.”</p> - -<p>“It is permitted!”</p> - -<p>The men arose. One produced a small casket of -carved wood inlaid with ivory, and opening it so that it -revealed the brown earth of the desert therein, he -solemnly placed it in the outstretched hand of the King. -Another produced a twig of wood plucked from a -stunted oak, and another a small jar of water, which -were solemnly received and passed on to Otanes by the -King, who then said:</p> - -<p>“Hear now the King’s sentence! You are pardoned.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">[36]</span> -Enough blood has been shed to atone for past injury. -You are brave men whom the Great King will delight to -own as his children. Your lands and all your property -are forfeit to him, but these he will let you use so long -as you serve him in good faith. But in order that you -may enjoy his protection, it will be necessary for you to -render to him each summer season ten thousand good -horses, as many cattle, and a like number of sheep. -That he may have evidence of your good faith and in -order that your people may be instructed in his laws, -you must send to our city of Bactra each year one hundred -of your most noble youths, to enter the King’s -service, whose lives shall be forfeit should you rebel. -Furthermore, you shall maintain for the King’s service -ten thousand horsemen, fully equipped, who shall march -whither he wills. You shall guard these lands against -all foes. In return for these light services, the power -of the Great King shall be over you, your foes shall be -his foes, and his mighty arm will give you peace. You -shall go out and come in according to your customs, but -you shall molest no man who acknowledges the Great -King as his master. I have spoken!”</p> - -<p>The ambassadors bowed themselves to the earth, and -their spokesman replied:</p> - -<p>“Let all these conditions be written on tablets, O -Gracious King! Most merciful and gracious is your -heart! Our people will most gladly submit and will -faithfully observe these conditions. And now we beg -that as an earnest of our good intent, we may bring to -you our first offering of ten thousand horses, ten thousand -sheep, and as many cattle, for the use of our Lord -and his army. So may the Great King see that we deal -not with crooked tongues or lying lips.”</p> - -<p>“It is so ordered!” assented the King, graciously.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">[37]</span> -“While we have a sufficiency of victuals, fresh meat will -be welcome to the army. The treaty shall be written on -tablets. Go now with Captain Mardux and partake of -refreshments ere you return to your people. Say to -them that we shall build here a great city to be named -the City of Cyrus, and it shall be a place for trade where -they may exchange the product of their herds for the -fruits of the south countries. Let them send laborers -to assist, and the King’s bounty shall be sufficient for -them. But of this we will give you further information -at a future day.”</p> - -<p>The ambassadors withdrew, greatly pleased that the -sentence of the King was not more burdensome. A -week later, the required horses, cattle, and sheep were -brought to the camp, and the one hundred youths as -hostages were surrendered. Within a year, the walls of -a city were begun and a colony of loyal Aryans located -within them as the nucleus of an emporium which flourished -there a thousand years, rejoicing in the name of -the Great King who there died for his race.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile expert embalmers, who had learned their -art in Egypt, prepared the body of Cyrus for its long -journey to the city of his fathers. When well prepared, -it was enclosed in a heavy casket, placed on a -four-wheeled chariot drawn by ten royal white stallions, -and, encompassed by the Imperial Guard, was -conveyed to its tomb. The great army, drawn up in -two long parallel lines, gave sad farewell to its hero-king -as the funeral car passed along between, escorted -by the Guard; and tears streamed down every Aryan -cheek. To Prince Hystaspis, who led the van, with -Gobryas at his side, a roar of acclamation, a royal -salute, and shouted wishes for a safe journey and quick -return, came from the successive companies he passed.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">[38]</span> -Prexaspes, riding some paces to the rear, noted the -great demonstration and pondered deeply thereon.</p> - -<p>All day the funeral car and its splendid escort moved -slowly southward. The Prince of Iran was silent, absorbed -in meditation. Gobryas vainly endeavored to -engage him in conversation. The troopers noted his -downcast mien and whispered together concerning it. It -was well known that Cambyses hated the Prince. Every -soldier in the army had discussed it with his fellow -since the Great King died. All had hoped that King -Hystaspis would claim Cyrus’ throne, his by right of -birth and age, if being descended from an older branch -of the Achæmenian family counted; but they had been -disappointed when the King had announced his support -of Cambyses. What if the Prince could be persuaded -to seize the throne? It was a new throne anyway, this -throne of the King of Kings, the Emperor of many nations. -If he would take it, they would give it to him! -So reasoned the army. King Hystaspis would accede if -the Prince should declare his acceptance. It would be -better to go against Cambyses sword in hand and to contest -for the prize of sovereignty with him, than to be -seized and slain by the madman after submitting to his -sway. All day on the march and much of that night -around their camp-fires, the troopers discussed the -matter. The result of their consultation appeared next -morning. The Prince, after a restless night in which -evil dreams disturbed his slumber when he did succeed -in his efforts to sleep, rose and went forth just as the sun -was rising. He was greatly surprised to see his ten -thousand men drawn up in solid masses, forming a hollow -square around his tent. He was nonplussed when -every cap was hurled into the air, every sword struck -buckler and every head bowed low in salute to him.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">[39]</span> -His face went white with emotion and then became dark -with wrath as he heard the thunderous shout:</p> - -<p>“Hail, King of Kings! All hail!”</p> - -<p>He raised his hand, beckoning for silence, and, addressing -a group of officers, he said, speaking sternly -and in a loud voice,</p> - -<p>“What means this?”</p> - -<p>One of the officers advanced a pace, and, bowing low, -said:</p> - -<p>“Son of Achæmenes, Cyrus, the Great King, is dead! -Your Father, the illustrious King of Iran, has refused -to take his place. But you have not refused. Now we -know that Cambyses hates you and will do you evil. -He is no Aryan, moreover, and is said to be a madman. -Heed this, our prayer! Let us recognize you as the -King of Kings and our good right arms will make it -so!”</p> - -<p>As he ceased speaking, a roar of assent went up from -ten thousand throats. The soldiers extended their hands -to him in entreaty. Again he beckoned for silence. -When the clamor ceased, he answered:</p> - -<p>“What you ask is impossible to grant! As my father -swore to Cyrus, so did I! I am bound by a sacred oath -to the Great King, whose body lies there on its car, but -whose spirit even now, perhaps, hovers near us; and I -must support Cambyses and Bardya on their thrones forever. -My word is given; it shall not return! This -throne is the throne of Cyrus; he set it up and his children -are entitled to it. It is true, the King of Iran by -right of descent might have contested with Cyrus the -throne of Persia; but he had no right to contest with -him that which his mighty arm brought in subjection to -him. As King of Iran, my father is your ruler. I, his -son, am most happy to be your Prince. But Cambyses<span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">[40]</span> -is overlord and such must remain! I have no fear. -Cambyses, the Great King, will not be empowered to do -me harm unless I rebel. You have rebelled. You -know the punishment of treason is death; but I will -pardon you now if you will swear before Ahura-Mazda -to remain faithful to Cambyses, the Great King, so long -as he respects the laws of Iran. Up with your hands -and swear!”</p> - -<p>There was a pause. The troopers looked to their -officers and upon each other. A murmur ran through -the great host. Would the Prince yield? They knew -his firmness and his love of truth and that he had never -broken oath or promise. Looking upon his countenance, -sad but set with determination, they decided to obey. -But some wept aloud, and tears flowed down the cheeks -of others. The captains raised their hands, saying: -“We swear, O Prince of Iran! You alone may release -this oath!” And the soldiers repeated solemnly but -without enthusiasm: “We swear, O Prince, and you -alone may release this oath!”</p> - -<p>Thus did the Prince of Iran for the sake of an oath -put aside the highest position earth could give. Dismissing -the assembly with a wave of his hand, he turned -in great agitation to enter his tent, that he might regain -that calmness for which in all difficult situations he was -ever noted. As he turned, his eyes met those of Prexaspes, -who occupied a tent near his, and, who, standing -in his tent-door, had been a witness of the whole incident. -He noted on the face of the Mede great astonishment. -He gravely acknowledged the profound bow -with which the latter greeted him and passed into his -tent. Later, on the march that day, the Prince called -Prexaspes to his side, and said to him:</p> - -<p>“Lord Prexaspes, you were witness when the Imperial<span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">[41]</span> -Guard sought my consent to rebel. You are -going in before Cambyses, the King of Kings; and I -place it upon your honor to deal justly with me in this -matter. These men are like children, loving me as I -love them, and thought they were doing me a service. -If you see fit to speak to the King of it, assure him of my -loyalty. Also say that I myself will stand or fall with -these men. No harm must come to them. The King of -Kings shall have loyal service of me and of these as long -as they remain with me.”</p> - -<p>“What need to report?” rejoined Prexaspes, -warmly. “Truly it was no light thing your oath required -of you! I marvel that you refused, knowing as -you do how the King of Kings hates you, hates your -friends, hates his brother, who is dear to you, and even -his sister, the lovely Athura! Rest assured that, should -this come to his ears, I will truthfully describe your -actions. How can I forget that day at the crossing of -the Araxes, when my Babylonian archers and I were -surrounded by howling Scythians and we were hard-pressed? -Was it not the Prince of Iran who came with -the Guard to our rescue? I may not be a follower of -Zoroaster, Great Prince, but I am not ungrateful!”</p> - -<p>The Prince looked into the eyes of Prexaspes and saw -that he was sincere. “I trust you,” he said. “Let us -hope that Cambyses as King may forget his dislikes as a -man.”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">[42]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER IV<br /> - - -<small>ATHURA</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap2">ANCIENT Bactra, the mother city of the Aryan -race, was situate in the midst of a beautiful valley -surrounded on all sides by mountain ranges. It was a -fertile valley. Through it rushed the limpid river, -Adirsiah, coming down from the distant snow-capped -mountains in the east and finding an outlet northward -to the Oxus. Though it was summer, the hills were -green and the valley was luxuriant with full-leafed trees -and blooming gardens. It seemed a paradise indeed to -the Prince of Iran and his wayworn guard, marching in -from the arid northern plain. Bactra was a great city. -Many square miles dotted with ruins at this day mutely -tell of its extent. Here the mythical Kaiomur, possibly -a son of Japhet, settled, and planted a race from which -many nations have sprung. It was not a walled city. -The men of Iran relied on their good right arms for defense. -Indeed, they were not accustomed to await invasion; -they invaded others. In the open, with galloping -steed and spear at rest they swept the enemy from -their path, or on foot, with bow and arrow they smote -him or closed with him in close mortal combat with -sword and battle-ax. Their valor made a wall more -potent than stones.</p> - -<p>Like a hive did the ancient city nourish myriad lives -and send forth swarms of sturdy men, who, under the -leadership of able men, took with them wives, children,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">[43]</span> -and goods and forcibly possessed new homes in distant -climes. One stream passed westward to the lower -Caspian and, branching there, flowed northward, westward, -and southward. Hellas, Asia Minor, the Saxon -woods, Scandinavia, and Western Europe received them, -not perhaps in one year or one century, but in successive -years, as successive waves with a rising tide ever encroach -on the shore. Medea and Persia received them. -Ancient records seem to indicate that they dominated -the great valley of the Euphrates and Tigris and even -planted families in Syria on the shores of the Great -Sea; and it is sometimes argued that the ancestors of -Abraham, father of the Hebrews, came from Iran bringing -their knowledge of one God with them. It is at -least true that the monarchs of the Medes and Persians -ever favored the Hebrews and acknowledged their -Jehovah as the same God they themselves worshiped -under the name Ahura-Mazda, or the Life-Giving -Spirit. Another swarm crossed the southern mountains -and occupied India. But eastward and northeastward, -in obedience to some primal instinct that seems to -have driven them in all other directions, the Aryans -never penetrated. The slant-eyed, yellow races, protected -by the vast mountain ranges and desert plains of -Tibet, multiplied in peace on the shores of the Pacific -Ocean and threw out their swarms northward and eastward -into the Americas and the islands of the south -seas. Occasionally their hordes, under the general -designation of Tourans, pressed upon their western -neighbors by way of the plains of Siberia, and later, as -Huns, Turks, and Tartars, succeeded in overpowering, -by weight of vast numbers, the provinces so long protected -by Aryan valor; but not until that valor had been -forgotten in the luxuries of an enervating civilization.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">[44]</span>Bactra was at the intersection of main highways of -commerce. Here the great caravan road from Rhages, -to which flowed by different routes the trade of Persia -and Medea, of Egypt, Babylonia, Syria, and Europe, -intersected the roads from India and Tourania. Here -the beautiful wares of Babylon and Nineveh, of Samos -and Damascus, of Egypt and the Ionian cities and of -Greece were exchanged for the fabrics of India and the -products of the northern plains. Here caravans outfitted -for trade in distant lands. The great market-place, -an open square on the shore of the Adirsiah, near -the center of the city, was ever lively with the movement -of men of different colors and wearing as many -different dresses; of camels ever complaining and groaning; -of donkeys, braying; of beautiful horses, exhibiting -their points; and of a thousand vehicles for transporting -goods. Around three sides were dome-roofed -stores, where the wealth of all nations was displayed;, -where gold, silver, precious stones, beautiful earthenwares, -ivory, rugs, weapons, fruits, grains, and wearing -apparel were exhibited for exchange or for sale, and the -noisy shouts of traders were heard the whole day. -Groups of soldiers swaggered along, keeping the peace. -Teachers and priests in long robes walked with solemn -pace contemplative; magistrates and nobles rode through -with lofty aspect; the countryman, then as ever, wandered -about in open-eyed curiosity, loved and respected -by all Aryans, but nevertheless simple-minded and apt -to be cheated; and the humble laborer of the city, rough-spoken -but shrewd, boldly jostled any foreigner who -might cross his path.</p> - -<p>The royal palace occupied an eminence sloping down -to the river, near the eastern limits of the city, its stately -walls, and porticos dimly seen through the leafy trees of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">[45]</span> -the park surrounding it. Other mansions of the rich -and noble, each surrounded by garden or park, clustered -near. The narrow, irregular streets were bordered by -the houses and shops of the commercial class. On the -outskirts, the humbler cottages of the poor were built. -On all sides lay the gardens and fields in which were -raised the vegetables consumed by the vast population.</p> - -<p>Couriers had brought to Prince Bardya at Bactra -news of his father’s death. A period of mourning had -been proclaimed. When the funeral car with its guard -drew near the city, a decree was issued and proclaimed -on all the street corners, commanding all to leave their -tasks and to observe a day of special mourning. A -great procession marched out of the city to meet the -dead king. A thousand horsemen, four abreast, led the -way. Prince Bardya, riding a great white horse, rode -alone, with bowed head and sorrowful demeanor. Following -him were two litters, carried on the shoulders of -stout black slaves; these bore the royal daughters of -Cyrus, Athura and Artistone. A thousand or more -nobles, magistrates, travelers of note, and rich men rode -next. Countless multitudes of all classes closed the procession -or traveled along the way through the fields, -eager to see and to hear.</p> - -<p>The Prince of Iran, leaving his camp equipage at a -ford of the river a league below the city, advanced -slowly with the funeral car and his ten thousand weary, -wayworn guards, to meet the procession. Coming to an -open field, wherein stood several great oaks, he caused -the funeral car to stop beneath the branches of one of the -trees and massed his guard in an open square around it, -leaving a way open for the royal Prince and his sisters -to approach the bier. Then, accompanied by Gobryas, -he rode on to meet the procession. The advance<span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">[46]</span> -guards of Prince Bardya opened to let him pass through, -forming in lines on either side of the way.</p> - -<p>The Prince of Iran and Gobryas dismounted as they -were about to meet the son of Cyrus; and the latter likewise -dismounted, and, hastening to them, embraced them -affectionately, while tears dimmed all eyes.</p> - -<p>“Hail, dear friends!” was his greeting. “It is pleasant -to meet you even though sadness comes with you.” -He kissed the Prince of Iran and embraced him. “My -sisters are here. Let us go to them,” he then said.</p> - -<p>The litters drew near and were placed on the ground -by their brawny carriers. The curtains of the foremost -were parted and from it emerged a young woman, -heavily veiled and dressed in rich but somber clothing. -As her brother and his two friends approached, she drew -aside the veil from her face, and, smiling through tears -upon the Prince of Iran, extended to him her hand. He -bent knee before her and reverently kissed the extended -hand.</p> - -<p>“Greeting, Prince of Iran!” she said in a low, sweet -voice, wherein gladness struggled with sadness. “Arise! -Should a Prince of Iran kneel to any person?”</p> - -<p>“To one only in the whole world!” was his reply, -arising and looking down into her glorious eyes. “If -I were not here on so sad an errand, this would be my -happiest day. I bring to you the last message of love -and farewell from the King of Kings. His last thoughts -and words were of you and of the little sister here.”</p> - -<p>He turned to greet Artistone, who now came forward -from her litter, and gravely bent to kiss the little hand -she gave him.</p> - -<p>“Come!” said Bardya, “let us go and greet the dead. -When we return to the palace we shall renew our -acquaintance and you shall tell us all that our beloved -father said.”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">[47]</span>Without further conversation they walked between -the lines of massed soldiery, who saluted as they passed, -to the funeral car, around which stood a score of officers -with drawn swords as a guard of honor. They ascended -the great car, drew aside the heavy curtains, with which -it was surrounded, and stood in the presence of the dead. -The casket had been partially opened and some of the -wrappings over the face of the remains had been removed, -that they might look again upon the beloved features. -Royalty for the moment was forgotten and the -bereaved children wept; and, in an instant, a great wave -of emotion swept over the vast multitude. Men of all -stations, women of all classes and their children, lifted -up their voices in loud lamentation. The hero, under -whose mighty shadow they had so long rested and been -safe, was no more! Cyrus, the well-beloved, was gone! -Alas and alas! wailed the people. The glowing sun -smiled upon the snowy peaks in the east, the green hills -in the west, and the lovely valley with its rippling stream, -and all nature seemed happy. Only this myriad of -human beings voiced their woe. No greater tribute -could have been given to the mighty dead.</p> - -<p>But weeping must have an end. The Prince and his -sisters descended from the car and returned to the palace. -The casket, escorted by the multitudes, was conveyed to -a temple, which stood in the park surrounding the palace, -and was there kept while arrangements were made for -its further transportation to Persia.</p> - -<p>Prexaspes, having been given audience by Prince -Bardya, was furnished with an escort and sent on his -way to Cambyses at Hamadan. He was directed to inform -the King of Kings that his brother and sisters -would accompany the body of their father to Pasargadæ. -The determination of Bardya to attend his father’s<span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">[48]</span> -corpse to its tomb gave the Prince of Iran much concern. -It would place Bardya within the power of King -Cambyses, whose uncertain temper might lead him to -fratricide. Knowing the disposition of Cambyses and -his long-standing hatred towards Bardya, and fearing -that a conflict would inevitably arise over the divided -authority left them by the will of Cyrus, the Prince -sought to persuade Bardya to remain in Bactra, whose -people would protect him. But Bardya would not be -persuaded. He was a bold youth and thought that he -would be as safe among the Persians as among the -Bactrians.</p> - -<p>The palace of Bactra was the property of its ancient -line of kings. Here the Kings of Iran were crowned, -and from it went forth all royal decrees. Here King -Hystaspis in early youth had resided with his queen, and -here Darius, their son, had been born. But when Cyrus -of Persia became conqueror of Medea and assumed the -title of King of Kings, he admitted that Persia was a -part of Iran and placed it likewise under the rule of -Hystaspis, but on condition that the latter should acknowledge -him as overlord of all. King Hystaspis -entertained for his great cousin the most lively admiration -and affection. He cared not to dispute with him -world authority. He was a mystic, a lover of learning -and of his fellow-men. He would much rather have sat -at the feet of Zoroaster and delved into the mystery of -life and the greater mystery of death than rule as King. -But he accepted the duties of kingship as a trust for his -people and stoutly protected them from their enemies as -well as in the enjoyment of their ancient rights. He had -accepted the proposition of Cyrus and under him had -ruled all Iran, including Persia. His authority even extended -over Medea in the absence of Cyrus, although,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">[49]</span> -the capital of Cyrus’ empire being at Hamadan, the -Great King generally regulated the internal affairs of -Medea himself.</p> - -<p>King Hystaspis had then built for himself a palace on -the banks of the royal river Pulwar in Persia near where -it flowed into the Araxes and about thirty miles below or -west of Pasargadæ, around which arose a great city -known to history as Persepolis, where in winter he might -enjoy a less rigorous climate than at Bactra. There he -and his queen loved to reside in the midst of a great park, -surrounded by men and women of congenial spirit, embowered -in the flowers and foliage of a semi-tropic vegetation -with the great plain of Merv, a very paradise under -irrigation, lying before them. His provinces were -under the rule of governors. The load of executive duties -fell upon his officers. Only in times of war did he -leave his retreat, except that once each year he returned -to Bactra for some weeks of administrative work.</p> - -<p>During the absence of King Hystaspis and his son with -Cyrus on the expedition against the Tourans, Bardya and -his sisters had been guests in the palace at Bactra. This -was a rambling structure, one story in height, adorned -with a portico whose tall stone pillars supported a heavy -wooden roof and gave to its front the appearance of a -temple. The walls of the palace were of roughly hewn -stone, thick and massive. There were many wings, all -gable-roofed and rudely ornate with buttresses and overhanging -eaves. Narrow windows and doors gave light -and air to the interior. It being summer, the windows -were protected by heavy wooden bars only, the winter-time -shutters having been removed. Gauze curtains on -the inside were hung over them, more to exclude insects -than for beauty. The doors were of heavy wood, bound -with brazen bands cut in ornate figures. Inside, the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">[50]</span> -many rooms were fitted luxuriously, with bright, soft -rugs on the stone floors and with figured draperies on the -walls, where, also, hung armor and weapons. Divans, -couches, chairs, and tables richly upholstered and set -with precious metals and ivory constituted the furniture. -In the midst of the palace was an open court, where a -fountain gushed up from a rocky islet in the middle of a -pool and where flowering shrubs perfumed the air. The -servants’ quarters were at the rear, and, not far away, -was another building where a company of soldiers had -quarters.</p> - -<p>The white stone walls of a small temple could be seen -three hundred paces to the west of the palace, in the -midst of great oaks and elms. There had Zoroaster -taught and had exercised the offices of chief priest of -Iran, and there beneath its altar lay buried his saintly -bones. There a corps of priests kept the sacred fire ever -burning and daily uttered prayers for the King and his -people. There, before entering upon any long journey -or going to war, the King of Iran offered his sacrifices and -raised his hands to the Great Life-giving Spirit of -Heaven. There, now, within its sacred portals, reposed -for a time the body of the Great King.</p> - -<p>The ground sloped gently northward from the palace -down to the shore of the Adirsiah and was graced with -many large trees. A low stone wall surrounded the palace -park, except where the river bounded its front. -There were benches beneath the elms on the river shore, -where one could sit and look upon the distant northern -mountains or at the rapid stream, rushing in light green -splendor through its narrow, rock-bound channel and -with sighing murmur giving an undertone to the songs -of birds. Here at even came Athura, after having -listened to the chant of the priests, celebrating the close<span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">[51]</span> -of the day as she knelt by her father’s bier. She had -come hither to be alone with her sorrow.</p> - -<p>The air was warm and balmy. A cooler breeze was -beginning to blow down from the mountains; it played -with the dark hair above her brow. The scarflike veil, -which commonly served as a head-dress, was thrown -aside and rested on her shoulders, exposing the wavy -mass of hair upon her head and the gem-studded band -that encircled it like a crown. Her tall, well-developed -body was robed in a long mantle of dark, soft fabric, -somewhat like the Grecian robe, caught up in the folds -at the left side so as to expose the tip of a sandaled foot, -and secured by a girdle of golden links at the waist. The -short sleeves of an under jacket covered her arms to the -elbow. Bracelets of gold set with gems graced her -wrists. No pen has ever described her beauty or the -royal grace of her demeanor. Through the dim vista of -the ages comes a picture of dark brown eyes, in the depths -of which shone all the tenderness of womanhood with -its all-embracing sympathy and boundless capacity for -love, and all the fearlessness of a pure, proud spirit, accustomed -to power and authority. Comes also a vision -of a fair complexion, pure Caucasian, or rather Aryan; -a lofty brow, inherited from her father; a profile, now -known as Grecian, but not modern Grecian; an expressive -mouth, where sweetness dwelt, but which could show -firmness and even sternness when necessary; a smile -that would raise a worshiper to heaven; a frown before -which the boldest would falter.</p> - -<p>In those days and among that people, woman held high -and honorable place. The servility of the Semitic races, -aped by later Persian rulers, had not yet degraded her. -As in Greece and Rome, where men of kindred blood -dwelt, so among the Iranians, woman held a most honorable<span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">[52]</span> -place. Man ruled the world; but his heart was -ruled by a noble woman. Coming of such a race, where -equality made her sex noble, this royal princess exhibited -in her carriage a spirit before which men bowed, not because -she was high-born and of royal lineage, but because -she was a woman.</p> - -<p>Of her tradition has spoken much and history little. -All agree that she was the most famous woman of her -age. Some would have her the wife of three kings: of -Cambyses, her brother, of the false Bardya, or Smerdis, -and of Darius, son of Hystaspis. Others declare that -her sister, Artistone, was the wife of the latter. Others, -that Artistone was the ill-fated wife of Cambyses. This -is certain, that she was the high-spirited daughter of -Cyrus, that she was indeed the wife of the greatest of -the Kings of Iran and the mother of a line of kings; -and history indicates that she was the real ruler of the -empire while her son wore the crown. But such history -had not yet been written, when, on this summer -evening, she stood on the shore of the river Adirsiah and -sadly meditated on the pleasant days of her girlhood -spent in the company of her father. Her mother had -died when she was a child of ten years; and, thereafter, -her father had made her his companion, delighting in her -wisdom as much as in her affection. She had traveled -with him as he moved through his great empire, had -played in the ancestral park at Pasargadæ, had ruled his -palace at Susa, had viewed with wonder the mighty walls -and hanging gardens of Babylon, and had dwelt much in -Hamadan, the chief capital of the empire. There rose -in her memory the proud, beautiful face of her mother, -the cruel, sneering countenance of Cambyses, the smiling, -mischievous face of Bardya, the little sister Artistone, -and the grave, kindly father, whose stately manner never<span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">[53]</span> -departed even in the privacy of home-life. Into this -picture of her childhood life there came another face and -form, one that of late years had filled much of her life -with the sweetness of love. She remembered her first -meeting with the Prince of Iran, at Pasargadæ, and how -afterwards as a tall youth of fourteen years he came to -her father’s court to enter his service, and that he talked -much of his mother, of his father, and of his studies. -He had at once assumed a sort of protectorate over Bardya -and herself, interposing often between them and the -cruel elder brother, Cambyses, and even coming to blows -with him in their behalf. With him she had studied, had -learned the art of writing and reading, had sat at the -feet of the great seer of Babylon, Belteshazzer, also -known as Daniel, the Hebrew, and had learned to ride, -to hunt, and to handle arms. She had not neglected the -arts practiced by the women of her race. To cook, to -sew, to spin, to weave wonderful tapestries,—all these she -had learned. Many times, disguised, she and Bardya and -the young Prince of Iran had traveled from place to -place, enjoying adventures among the common people -and sometimes incurring great risks. Then wars had -come, and her brothers and the young Hystaspis had followed -the Great King on his campaigns, that they too -might learn the war-game.</p> - -<p>She sat down on a rustic seat beneath a great elm and -with hands folded in her lap gazed dreamily at the swirling -stream, into which the shades of evening were darkly -falling. Bitter-sweet thoughts, the sense of personal loss, -the uncertainty of the future, the near presence of him -she loved,—a hundred passing impressions stirred her -soul. What would Cambyses do, now that he was to be -the King of Kings? She and Bardya had often discussed -the subject. She knew that the proud spirit of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">[54]</span> -the latter would suffer no oppression from the King. -Would there be civil war? Would brother fight brother? -She feared so, knowing the hatred Cambyses felt towards -Bardya, a feeling that the latter reciprocated.</p> - -<p>A footfall startled her. Turning, she beheld the -Prince of Iran coming towards her. She rose with a -smile of welcome and extended her hands to him. How -noble he seemed to her! He had put off his armor, and -over his close-fitting tunic of soft, velvety cloth had -thrown the elegant Medean cloak in common use among -the noble-born. Sandals protected his feet, and the interlaced -thongs with which they were held partially covered -his ankles and legs to the knee, to which the skirt of his -tunic descended. The open folds of the long cloak gave -freedom to his limbs and displayed the broad purple sash -which served as a belt and the golden chain from which -his short sword swung. His head was bare, displaying a -mass of dark hair, slightly curled, and combed back from -his broad brow. He had washed away the stains of -travel. His sun-tanned skin glowed with health. His -eyes were alight with love.</p> - -<p>A bulbul broke forth into song in the branches of the -tree above them. The breeze rustled gently amidst the -leaves. The gurgle and rush of the stream rose softly. -A thousand whispering voices seemed to waken all -about, as if the spirits of the woods talked of these two -standing there in close embrace. Love, without which no -human soul desires to live, which raises men to God, -which makes of earth a heaven, which in its all-abounding -strength makes men and women strong, the chief attribute -of God and the chief element in His children, -which links congenial spirits together for eternity and -drives out evil, here sat enthroned.</p> - -<p>After the first warm greetings were over, they sat down -side by side on the rustic seat.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">[55]</span>“I may tell you now,” he said, “that your father gave -consent to our marriage. How I wish you could have -been present so that he could have placed your hand in -mine! Now, if we observe the ancient customs of our -race, your eldest brother must give his consent.”</p> - -<p>“But even then we must wait until the days of mourning -for my father are finished!”</p> - -<p>“I know, but what if Cambyses does not consent?”</p> - -<p>She was silent for a moment. This possibility had occurred -to both. The word of Cambyses the Great King -would be law. He might if he willed give his sister to -another.</p> - -<p>“That Cambyses is not fit to reign!” she exclaimed -presently. “My father should have decreed Bardya his -successor! Am I, the daughter of Cyrus, to have no -part in this empire? To have no will of my own? Let -the people of Iran answer! What say you?”</p> - -<p>The Prince was silent now. The oath sworn to the -dead Cyrus recurred to his mind. It would indeed have -been better had Cyrus willed that Bardya should be his -successor, for then the Aryans would have cheerfully -followed his will. As he replied not, she continued:</p> - -<p>“Who, in truth, is entitled to reign in Iran? If birth -gives right, is not the gracious King, your father, this -day entitled to succeed my father? For he is of an older -branch of the Achæmenian family. Let him assert this -right! The men of Iran will uphold him. As for me, I -shall be satisfied to become queen of the world, when you -succeed to your father’s place.”</p> - -<p>“Of all these matters have I thought much,” he replied -slowly. “It is true my father is entitled to reign -in Iran; but the empire of Cyrus reaches on every side -beyond the utmost limits of Iran; and it was his by right -of conquest. It is a new empire based on the provinces<span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">[56]</span> -of Persia and Medea over which he was always entitled -to reign. Perhaps our ancient customs and laws would -give my father the best right to succeed. But he has -refused to assert that right. He has sworn to Cyrus to -support Cambyses and Bardya on their thrones forever. -I, too, in obedience to my father’s will, when the Great -King lay dying, made solemn oath that I would likewise -support them on their thrones, according to the terms of -his will. Our oaths cannot return. But such oaths do -not take away our ancient right to rule as Kings of Iran. -That we will ever maintain; but not to the overthrow of -Cambyses or of Bardya. I am troubled to know how to -act in the future. Cambyses surely will not permit -Bardya to reign even over part of this empire; and all -the provinces of the East have been given to Bardya -with the sole condition that he acknowledge the overlordship -of Cambyses. If the King of Kings should lead an -army hither to overthrow his brother, we must fight him; -if Bardya seeks to overthrow his brother, we must prevent -him. Alas! the mind of Cyrus must have been affected -so that he could not see clearly! I can see before -us long years of civil war, wherein Aryan will fight -Aryan. Of one thing I am convinced, Bardya should not -accompany the body of his father to Pasargadæ. Here, -in the faithful city of Bactra, with the army of King -Hystaspis at hand, he may be secure. Would it not be -better that you also remain here, while I go to stand before -the King and demand his consent to our marriage?”</p> - -<p>“Shall I not honor my father by attending when he -goes to his tomb? I have no fear of Cambyses. Surely -he will attempt no harm to me or to my brother when on -this sacred mission! Besides, will you not also be present?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I shall be near. Let us hope that the King of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_57">[57]</span> -Kings will be gracious. My life shall be between you -and harm. It would be valueless to me without you!”</p> - -<p>“And mine would end without you! Have no fear -that Cambyses may give me to another! I, the daughter -of Cyrus, will submit to no such disposition! He dares -not violate the ancient custom which gives a woman the -right to reject one who may be proposed. Not yet do the -slavish laws of the Assyrians have force in Iran. Cambyses -may rage; he may slay me! Yet will he not have -his way with me! Truly if he attempts to oppress -Bardya and me, the people of Iran shall be appealed to; -and I know they will rise!”</p> - -<p>He drew his encircling arm closer and sighed deeply. -“Oaths, lives, and crown shall not stand between us!” he -said.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_58">[58]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER V<br /> - - -<small>CAMBYSES</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">SOME days were given to rest before the Prince of -Iran and his guard, escorting the royal dead and accompanied -by the royal family, marched out of Bactra -on the long journey, over verdant plain and hill, over -rugged mountains and sandy wastes, to Pasargadæ. -Their route lay westward to Rhages, with the Elburz -chain of mountains on the right and the vast deserts of -Iran on the left, thence southward by way of Hamadan. -A caravan accompanied them, bearing provisions and -luxuries for the journey. In spite of the sad errand, it -was a pleasant experience for the Prince and his beloved.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile Prexaspes, riding at courier speed, rushed -on in advance to carry tidings to Cambyses. As he rode, -he formulated plans. He knew Cambyses well,—in fact, -it had been reported to Cyrus that Prexaspes had abetted -his wayward son in his excesses. As much to remove -him from his son as to please the Medes, the King had -taken the powerful noble with him on his expedition -against the Touranians. Prexaspes had not dared demur. -Much as he loved ease and luxury, he was personally -brave and capable. He had performed his duties -and had won the approbation of the just old King. -Knowing the weaknesses of Cambyses, his vanity, his -selfishness, his gross passions, and his superstitious nature, -he now planned how he should gain advantage by -them; and in his mind he saw himself raised to the second<span class="pagenum" id="Page_59">[59]</span> -place in the empire, covered with riches, honors, and -power.</p> - -<p>He soon arrived at Rhages, an ancient city situated -near that famous pass through the Elburz mountain-chain -known as the Caspian Gates, and not far from Mount -Demavend, around which cluster many legends of ancient -Iran. Here the stream of Aryans had halted many -years before separating into the three branches, one of -which passed northward through the Gates into the Caucasus -and thence into Europe, another westward into the -mountains of Azerbijan, and another southward to Medea -and Persia. But Hamadan, the Ecbatana of the Greeks, -situated farther south, had grown greater and had become -the capital of Medea. Rhages had ceased to be the capital. -It was, however, a great and important city, a base -for the army guarding the Caspian provinces beyond the -great mountain-chain and a market through which flowed -commerce from the sea of the north, the caravans of the -east and south and from the herdsmen of the mountains -in the west. Mount Demavend, magnificent in its snow-capped -grandeur, on whose peak, it was said, God sometimes -rested to view His created world, is one of the -great mountains of earth.</p> - -<p>Prexaspes halted here but a day. He sacrificed a horse -at the temple, where the ancient Aryan rites were performed, -and he drank soma and was sprinkled with holy -water afterwards at a Magian shrine, where he left a gift -of money. Having thus satisfied his conscience and invoked -good-luck from all sources, he galloped southward -towards Hamadan, where he expected to find King Cambyses.</p> - -<p>The queen city of the empire, celebrated in song and -story, strong in the martial spirit of its people, called -Hamadan by the Persians, Agmetha by the Hebrews,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_60">[60]</span> -Ecbatana by the Greeks, sat upon a rolling plain, close to -the foot of Mount Elwend, sometimes called Mount -Orontes. In the center was an eminence on which was -the citadel and around which were seven walls rising in -gradations, each painted a different color from the others. -On the top of the eminence was the far-famed royal -palace, covering acres of ground. Its glittering metal -roof reflected afar the rays of the sun. Its porch columns, -its doors and walls, were plated with precious -metal. Its deep, cool interior was luxuriously furnished -with carved and curiously wrought tables, divans, settees, -and chairs, and with costly tapestries from Srinigar -and rugs and carpets from the looms of Medea. Its -throne room was vast and magnificent. A stone-built -treasury vault occupied one corner, where was stored -untold wealth, gathered during the years of conquest, -when Crœsus and other unlucky kings fell before the -conqueror. A park lay at the rear, inclosed within the -walls.</p> - -<p>To this city from east and south caravans, with their -spirited horses, their complaining camels, and their slow-moving -elephants, came, and from the west long trains of -pack mules and slaves, to exchange commodities and to -outfit for new expeditions. Here came armies, returning -from chastisement of some rebel or from conquest of -some nation, to recruit for further forays. Half a million -people, dwelling in wooden, stone, or tent houses, -here made their homes and proudly claimed to be rulers -of the world by virtue of the palace on the hill and the -power of its royal occupant.</p> - -<p>It was midsummer. Royalty and nobility, leaving the -lowlands and the heat of the capital city, sought cool retreats -in the mountains. Mount Elwend, whose peak is -capped with eternal snow, thrusts downward vast spurs<span class="pagenum" id="Page_61">[61]</span> -into the plains eastward and southward; and, between -their wooded sides, babbling streams of cool water flow -down from the snows. In the vales and canyons of the -foothills were many tents and rustic cabins, where the -rich and powerful dwelt and enjoyed the cool, sweet air. -Pack-trains fetched provisions and supplies from the -city. In luxury and dissipation, with sport and game, the -elect of earth here passed the time pleasantly. Here -Cambyses was residing, all unconscious that he was now -King of Kings.</p> - -<p>Riding down from the north, with a score of soldiers -at his back, Prexaspes saw the dome and towers of the -great palace flash in the afternoon sun and knew that his -mission was almost accomplished. His heart beat high. -He would be the first to greet Cambyses by his new title, -King of Kings, the Great King, and it would depend upon -the mood of Cambyses whether he would be given honors -as the bearer of good tidings, or be disgraced as the -bearer of evil. The guard at his back, picked up at -Rhages, did not know his errand or that Cyrus was dead. -The dark, eagle-like countenance of Prexaspes was impassive -and never betrayed his thoughts. Worn by -weather and hardened by exposure, he now looked more -the soldier than the courier. But he looked forward to -many days of ease and pleasure, when he could discard -his dusty uniform for clean linen, perfumed vestments, -and the elegant Medean cloak.</p> - -<p>At a point about two miles north of the city, he met a -train of donkeys led by slaves and under guard of half -a dozen mounted troopers. They were moving slowly -and they insolently neglected to give way to Prexaspes -and his followers when the latter came galloping down -towards them.</p> - -<p>“On the King’s business!” shouted Prexaspes, wrathfully,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_62">[62]</span> -reining in his foaming steed. “Out of the way, -swine! Offscouring of the earth and filthy jackals! must -we ride over you?”</p> - -<p>“We also are on the King’s business!” retorted the -leader of the troopers, a dour, whiskered Mede, bringing -his short spear into position. “By the whiskers of -Merodach! keep a civil tongue and do not try riding over -the train of Cambyses!”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes glowered at the speaker a moment. He -recognized the sullen face.</p> - -<p>“Ha, Merobates, is it you?” he cried. “I might have -known the captain of the King’s houseguard! Know you -not Prexaspes?”</p> - -<p>Anger left the swarthy countenance of Merobates. -He grinned as he answered:</p> - -<p>“Truly I remember the Lord Prexaspes! But I did -not suppose you were within a thousand parasangs! -Whence and whither?”</p> - -<p>“From the King to the King,” answered Prexaspes, -enigmatically. “But where is he,—Cambyses? I bear -a message to him and must not delay.”</p> - -<p>“Wise it is not to delay on his business, indeed!” rejoined -Merobates. “The Prince is now at his summer -camp some parasangs over there,” indicating the slopes -of Elwend. “I am just returning from the city with the -daily provisions for his use.”</p> - -<p>“Guide me to him, good Merobates, and great will be -your reward!” said Prexaspes. “In the King’s name, I -command! Leave your men to bring the train and lead -on.”</p> - -<p>Merobates hesitated, considering whether it were wiser -to stay with his men and thus assure the performance of -his daily duty or to obey the order of the noble Prexaspes. -But the compelling gaze of the nobleman was<span class="pagenum" id="Page_63">[63]</span> -upon him, and, having issued several gruff orders to his -subordinates, he led the way along a beaten trail into the -hills. As they went, Prexaspes sought information.</p> - -<p>“How long has the Prince been at his summer house?”</p> - -<p>“Seven days only. He has just married a new wife, -the daughter of Nebuchadezer, Prince of Nineveh, and -he has taken her there, as he says, to be at peace, leaving -his other wives at the palace.”</p> - -<p>“Has he many people with him?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes! Thirty notables of Nineveh came as an escort -with the new wife. Thirty Medean nobles are with -them for company. Besides, King Crœsus is there and -also the son of Hillel of Damascus. There be the Babylonian -hostages and Gaumata, the chief Magian, and a -hundred others from far and near. A thousand cavalry -guard the camp. Great games have there been! The -Prince has proven himself to be a mighty archer and -spear-thrower. He outshoots them all. Well it is for -them! For the liquor—you know?”</p> - -<p>Merobates waved his hand suggestively towards his -mouth as though quaffing from a goblet. Prexaspes -nodded assent.</p> - -<p>“How is the Prince’s temper?” he asked.</p> - -<p>“Excellent! Never better! His new wife pleases him -and his servants have learned how to avoid crossing him. -But what is this news, which you have galloped from -afar to bring?”</p> - -<p>“It is for the Prince’s ears first; but know, O Merobates, -that great fortune either of good or evil hangs over -your head and mine to-day. How does the Prince regard -himself now?”</p> - -<p>Merobates laughed.</p> - -<p>“He has adopted the customs of the lowlander dogs -who salaam to the earth before royalty. Cambyses has<span class="pagenum" id="Page_64">[64]</span> -forgotten that he is mortal and swears that he will do -even greater deeds than the Great King, his father. If -you would please him, prostrate yourself and bow very -low to the earth. Were he God himself, he could not be -pleased more with adulation and homage! Praise his -deeds—he swells with pride. Fail to praise—you -may as well leap from the tower in the city market! -Please him—a gold chain and a chief place at feasts is -your reward! Displease him,—a bowstring at your -throat, or hanging by your heels to a beam, or some other -evil! Me has he ever commanded to treat him as ever -I have,—with respect and obedience, but not with lying -adulation. I tell him his faults. He laughs.”</p> - -<p>“I remember, he used to say that Merobates was his -conscience and was the only man who dared to cross him -or to speak plainly to him.”</p> - -<p>“It has always been so. He is violent. He fears not -to smite in wrath; but he is subject to persuasion and -art. He has no patience with those whom he dislikes and -he dislikes all who neglect to praise him. Even the -great Belteshazzer, appointed Governor of this province -by Cyrus, has not escaped his anger. The Prince has revoked -his authority.”</p> - -<p>Presently they entered a canyon, in which a clear brook -tumbled over rocks. Following this they soon entered -a small valley. Great trees bordered the margin of the -stream and were scattered over the valley, forming a -natural park. In the midst was the Prince’s palace, a low -structure built of hewn timbers. A score of lesser houses -and many tents stood at the sides of an open field several -acres in extent, which lay in front of the palace. On this -field the sports and contests of which Cambyses was fond -were held.</p> - -<p>Prexaspes now perceived a group of men gathered<span class="pagenum" id="Page_65">[65]</span> -beneath the spreading branches of a great live-oak near -the palace. One, who was seated on a thronelike chair -higher than the others, was engaged in conversation with -another who stood uncovered before him and whose -dress indicated that he was a priest. Others standing -near appeared to be giving close attention. He who was -seated was a large, heavy-limbed man, well-padded with -fat and short-necked and gross. His big, round head -was covered with a mass of curly black hair and was encircled -by a gem-studded coronet. His face was dark, -heavy, and flaccid, but his black eyes looked forth -shrewdly from beneath overhanging brows. Bushy eyebrows -met above his beaklike nose. A heavy black beard -cut to a length of about six inches covered the lower part -of his face. He was a powerful man physically and was -said to be agile and quick in spite of his fat.</p> - -<p>Such was Cambyses, elder son of Cyrus. There were -marks of dissipation on his face. From early youth he -had indulged his passions, until now, at the age of thirty -years, he was a slave to them.</p> - -<p>The sound of approaching hoofs called the Prince’s attention -to Prexaspes and his followers. He paused in -his discourse and exclaimed angrily: “Who comes? It -must be very important service to cause men to ride thus -into my presence!”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes halted at twenty paces’ distance, gave the -reins of his steed to Merobates, sprang to the earth and -drew near, uncovering his head as he advanced. Cambyses -then recognized him and uttered an exclamation of -surprise and pleasure. Prexaspes, throwing himself on -his face at the Prince’s feet, cried: “All hail, King of -Kings! May the Great King of all the World live forever!”</p> - -<p>For a moment, Cambyses was silent. He knew the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_66">[66]</span> -meaning of those words. His face paled and he sank -back upon his seat. But recovering he said, in a voice -quivering with excitement: “Rise up, Prexaspes! -What mean you? Why are you here? What of my -father?”</p> - -<p>“I will speak only if you bid me, mighty King!”</p> - -<p>“Speak on!”</p> - -<p>“King Cyrus, the Great King, the immortal hero, -greater than Jemshid, greater than Kaiomur, is no more -alive! But there lives a greater, even Cambyses, King -of Kings, King of the Whole Earth; and, to him bring I -this message at the command of the noble Hystaspis, King -of Iran, thy subject. May I find forgiveness as a bearer -of this evil news of the death of thy father, and favor as -a bearer of the good news of thy accession to the throne!”</p> - -<p>Cambyses was again silent, unable fully to realize his -elevation to supreme authority. His eyes turned upon -his courtiers, who forthwith fell on their faces before -him, and cried out: “All hail, King of Kings! Live -forever!”</p> - -<p>He drew a deep inspiration. Graciously extending his -hand he motioned to Prexaspes to rise and draw near; -and, taking from his own neck a heavy gold chain, he -placed it around the messenger’s neck, saying:</p> - -<p>“I give you my favor, noble Prexaspes! A long and -weary journey have you come to bear me this news; and -you shall be rewarded. That has come to pass which had -to come. Henceforth Cambyses, the Achæmenian, son -of Cyrus, heaven-born, reigns and shall reign! I thank -you, Prexaspes! You shall have room in my palace here -and shall feast this night. On the morrow we will return -to our capital and proclaim my accession to the -throne. Sit down here on my right hand and tell me of -the death of my father. There shall be proclaimed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_67">[67]</span> -throughout the empire forty days of mourning for my -father and, after that, forty days of rejoicing for me.”</p> - -<p>“I am indeed weary and travel-stained,” rejoined -Prexaspes, looking down upon his dusty clothes. “I -have ridden day and night, that I might hasten to you. I -pray you command that I may retire and dress as becomes -one who stands in the presence of the King.”</p> - -<p>“Mind not the clothes! It pleases me to note such -eagerness in my service. Ho, there, cup-bearer!” cried -the King, turning to a youth who stood waiting near the -palace door. “Bring cups and wine!”</p> - -<p>Instantly the cup-bearer clapped his hands. Two -servants came running from the palace, one bearing a jar -of wine, the other a tray of golden goblets. The goblets -were quickly filled with ruby wine and the cup-bearer -presented them to the King, after duly tasting them. -Cambyses took one and handed it to Prexaspes.</p> - -<p>“Drink!” he said. “You must be thirsty. But, perhaps, -my father has trained you to soberness?”</p> - -<p>“While King Cyrus lived I obeyed him. Now that -Cambyses is King of Kings, I obey him,” answered Prexaspes, -taking the cup.</p> - -<p>“Well said!” exclaimed Cambyses, taking a huge goblet. -“Come, let us first pour a libation to the earth and -its gods.”</p> - -<p>He poured a little of the wine out upon the earth and -drank the remainder. Prexaspes followed suit. The -King laughed as he looked around upon his courtiers and -saw that their countenances were expressive of curiosity -and mild astonishment. Pouring libations to the gods of -earth was sin with the orthodox Aryans and a new practice -to the majority of those present. But they expected -that Cambyses would disregard custom and law, even -more now as King than he did while only a prince.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_68">[68]</span>“Now sit here by me and briefly tell how my father -died and all that happened thereafter,” said the King to -Prexaspes. “Afterwards you shall rest.”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes sat down at the King’s right hand on a low -bench. The courtiers and attendants, obeying a motion -of the King’s hand, retired beyond hearing.</p> - -<p>“I thank you, O King, for this favor!” answered -Prexaspes. “My last message was written just before -your father encamped with his army on the left bank of -the Jaxartes and two days before the last great battle. It -had been in the King’s mind to cross the river and pursue -the enemy farther when he learned from his scouts and -some prisoners that the Touranians were gathering at a -point ten parasangs above us with the intention of giving -battle. Then the King set his army in battle-array, in a -very strong position, with the left wing resting on the -river and the right far out in shifting sand-dunes. In -front was a deep, narrow water-course beyond which lay -an open plain over which the enemy must come. He -commanded the Prince of Iran to lead the Imperial -Guard to a position behind the sand-dunes, ready to come -out upon the enemy’s flank and rear when the battle -should be joined.”</p> - -<p>The King interrupted, exclaiming: “A young man is -Prince Darius to hold so important a command! By my -beard! Infants shall not command under me!”</p> - -<p>“Your will is law, O King,” rejoined Prexaspes bowing. -“But I must say that Prince Darius is a most loyal -subject of Cambyses and a very brave and able general. -King Cyrus took position at the left of our army and the -weight of the enemy’s charge fell upon that part. It was -a fearful struggle. My light-armed troopers went out to -draw the enemy to charge and, as commanded, fell back -before the thousands on thousands of shrieking, howling<span class="pagenum" id="Page_69">[69]</span> -foemen. They followed us into the great ditch in our -front and pressed across. They bore back the Persian -and Medean heavy-armed infantry. They broke through -and would have ruined the army, had not King Cyrus at -the head of five thousand men of the Imperial Guard -thrown himself into the breach and held them back by -most mighty exertions! Then came the Prince of Iran -and the remainder of the Guard down from the right -upon the rear of the enemy, crushing and rolling them -back into the Jaxartes. His charge saved the day. It -was magnificent. The light horses of the Touranians -went down like leaves before a gust of wind. But just -as the victory declared for us, the King received a poisoned -dart in his throat and was borne from the field by -the noble Otanes. In spite of all that the surgeons could -do, he died that night.”</p> - -<p>“What message did he leave?”</p> - -<p>“King Hystaspis was in command of the army. He -called a council of officers and designated me as a messenger -to bring to you the last decree of the Great King. -Here it is.”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes drew a packet from a pouch at his belt and -presented it to the King. Cambyses eagerly unbound it -and began to read. A dark frown slowly gathered on his -face. He suddenly cast the paper upon the earth and set -his foot upon it, while his gleaming eyes showed bitter -wrath.</p> - -<p>“What!” he exclaimed. “Does he think to divide his -empire and confirm that hair-brained, beardless Bardya -as ruler of Iran and Persia? I say, it shall not be! I am -King of Kings now, and I shall reign alone! I will cut -that young sprout off if he dare claim a shadow of sovereignty! -My father always hated me and loved Bardya. -He always did shield that boy from my wrath. Now he<span class="pagenum" id="Page_70">[70]</span> -gives him the best part of the kingdom! What if he does -acknowledge me as overlord? Is he not ambitious? He -will ingratiate himself with the people and then will attempt -to overthrow me! King Hystaspis and his son,—they -doubtless will aid him!”</p> - -<p>He rose and paced back and forth, swinging his arms -and smiting his hands together. Prexaspes also rose and, -though standing in a humble attitude, covertly watched the -King.</p> - -<p>“What say you?” demanded Cambyses, halting before -Prexaspes.</p> - -<p>Prexaspes, after some hesitation, answered: “Doubtless -it was not just in the Great King to make such provisions; -but he was old and very fond of Prince Bardya. -Why allow the decree to be published? There is no need -until you are firmly established. Afterwards there will -be time to deal with the matter.”</p> - -<p>The King silently stroked his whiskers a moment considering -the advice. It seemed shrewd and good. His -wrath cooled somewhat. A cunning look came upon his -flushed countenance.</p> - -<p>“That is good advice, Prexaspes!” he assented. -“You shall be my chief counselor. This decree shall be -burned. None know its contents but you and I. I -count on your silence and will greatly reward you. If -you deceive me, no death shall be too severe for you!”</p> - -<p>“Have no doubt of me, Great King! I am your servant -and will do as you bid. There is no decree. I have -forgotten it. Let it not be seen of men. But Bardya -has a copy of it and the Persian nobles witnessed it.”</p> - -<p>He recovered the paper from the earth and restored it -to Cambyses. The latter laughed as he tore it in small -pieces. Calling a servant to bring a brazier of coals, he -placed the fragments upon the embers and watched them -burn.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_71">[71]</span>“Hark you, Prexaspes!” he then said. “This Bardya -must not be allowed to divide this kingdom. See to it! -Great will be your reward. The second place in the kingdom -shall be yours. Do you understand?”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes considered a moment. He well understood -the meaning Cambyses sought to convey.</p> - -<p>“I understand,” he then said. “Perhaps misfortune -will overtake the young man. Who knows?”</p> - -<p>The King laughed harshly. “An accident perhaps! -Rather than that the empire be divided, one of us should -die. The world is not large enough to hold two kings -when Cambyses is one of them! What do you advise?”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes thoughtfully contemplated the earth. The -King impatiently waited, glowering at him with the restless, -cruel eyes of a tiger.</p> - -<p>“Speak!” commanded the King at length. “Shall we -send a force and take him?”</p> - -<p>“If it please you, O King, that I should offer advice, -no. Bardya is strong in the love of the Aryan race. He -now dwells in the midst of hosts of stout men who are -his friends and who would overthrow your throne if they -could for his sake. Persian and Medean soldiers cannot -be compelled to make war upon Bactrians when led by a -son of Cyrus. Babylon, Assyria, Damascus, Sardis, and -the Ionian cities will not uphold your hands; they but -wait for an opportunity to rebel. You must court the -favor of the Aryan race. Above all I advise that you -show favor to the King of Iran and to his able son. They -are the idols of the veteran army of Cyrus.”</p> - -<p>“But Darius is Bardya’s friend!”</p> - -<p>“True, but he is also your loyal supporter.”</p> - -<p>“How know you? Is it not said openly among the -nobles of Persia that Hystaspis by right of birth should -have ruled instead of Cyrus? Darius is ambitious. I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_72">[72]</span> -know that youth! I have hated him since my father -showed more favor to him and to Bardya than to me! -He knows this. How then say you he will be my supporter?”</p> - -<p>“Do you not remember his love of truth and his hatred -of lies and deception from his boyhood up?”</p> - -<p>“I remember! No doubt it was a disease in him!”</p> - -<p>“Just so! Nevertheless it is said throughout Persia -and Iran and by every man of the great army, that, when -once the word of the Prince of Iran is given, it will stand -forever. No one ever requires of him a witness or a -written tablet. Now at the request of Cyrus and with -consent of his father, he placed his hands in those of the -Great King and swore to support you and Bardya on the -throne of this empire. Therefore you need not fear him; -but, rather, you may depend upon him for aid if you need -it.”</p> - -<p>The cloud on the King’s face lifted somewhat. He had -watched with jealous eye the growing power of the young -Hystaspis and had feared him even more than Bardya.</p> - -<p>“Nevertheless, wait till his ambition meets opportunity,” -he suggested.</p> - -<p>“No, it is as I say. I have proof. On the march to -Bactra, the Prince with the Imperial Guard was in charge -of the transport of the King’s body. The Guard, on the -morning of the second day’s march, saluted Darius as -King of Kings; and all had taken oath to support him if -he would consent. But he rebuked them, told them of his -oath to support you, and then and there made them also -swear with uplifted hands to support you. I myself witnessed -it.”</p> - -<p>“Is it so? Treason must be flourishing indeed!” exclaimed -Cambyses, bitterly. “This Guard shall no longer -be the Imperial Guard! It shall be decimated!”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_73">[73]</span>Rage again possessed the King’s soul. He knew himself -to be unpopular save with a few boon companions. -His jealous heart was filled with hatred towards the popular -Prince. Prexaspes ventured to remonstrate.</p> - -<p>“Let not the Great King be offended with his servant! -I am acquainted with the army and all its soldiers. The -Aryans are a proud race and the nobles will not bow the -knee even to their kings, as you know. Do not anger -them. Without them your subject nations will revolt and -you will have no one to support your empire. Rather, -dissemble your feelings. You are very wise, O King, if -you but stop to think. First, be well established on your -throne. After the body of your heroic father shall have -been placed in its tomb, send the Prince and his Guard to -conquer new provinces. Be advised by me in this. -Should evil befall his son, old Hystaspis would lead the -veterans of Cyrus five hundred thousand strong against -you. Who could stand before them?”</p> - -<p>Cambyses ceased pacing back and forth and sat down, -saying: “Your words are wise, Prexaspes. I will be -advised. Proceed!”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes smiled slightly behind his hand. He had -properly gauged the King’s impulses. He continued: -“I advise that you issue your formal decree as King of -Kings to-morrow and send copies thereof to be proclaimed -in every province of the empire; that you issue a -decree confirming the Prince of Iran in command of the -Guard and in his mission to transport the body of the -Great King to Pasargadæ; that you send a messenger to -Bardya and to your sisters greeting them kindly; that -you, also, as soon as they shall have arrived at Hamadan, -show them all honor, go with them to do honor to Cyrus -at Pasargadæ, and dissemble your real feelings. Thus -will you begin wisely and thus will you please the Aryan<span class="pagenum" id="Page_74">[74]</span> -people. Afterwards we may take counsel; and, should -Bardya meet with an accident or disappear, who can -blame the Great King? Be assured, O King, that I advise -well! I know that upon you only may I depend for -advancement and power. Bardya does not, nor do any -of the great Persian nobles, love Prexaspes. Their semi-barbaric -manners suited not my taste, and my refined -manners were not approved by them!”</p> - -<p>“I will heed your advice,” said the King. “My favor -shall be with you. First, I will make you Satrap of -Medea. I will let that old Hebrew, Belteshazzer, rest -from his labors in his tower. Afterwards, if you serve -me well, I shall increase your power. See to it, Prexaspes, -that my will be not thwarted! There shall be one -King, who shall be King of Kings, and he must be Cambyses!”</p> - -<p>“It shall be as you wish. But let us proceed with all -care.” Thus Prexaspes entered upon a road to great -gain in wealth and power, but also to ultimate woe.</p> - -<p>The King presently dismissed Prexaspes, and the latter -was conducted to pleasant rooms in the palace, where he -refreshed himself with a bath, arrayed himself in clean -linen and rich garments and had himself barbered and -perfumed by the King’s own barbers. Cambyses was -lavish with his favorites, and just now Prexaspes was -chief of them. The latter sat at the King’s right hand at -dinner that evening. All festivities were abandoned in -honor of the dead King, but the many courtiers who ate -at his tables found opportunity to assure the new King -of their joy over his accession to the throne. He drank -deeply both of adulation and wine until he became half-drunk -and maudlin, whereupon Merobates took him almost -forcibly to his bedchamber.</p> - -<p>Next day, the King and all his retinue returned to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_75">[75]</span> -Hamadan. A royal decree was immediately issued, reciting -the death of the Great Cyrus and the accession of -Cambyses to the throne of the world, and commanding all -officers, soldiers, and peoples to acknowledge him King of -Kings. The royal treasury was opened. From it the -golden crown studded with precious gems, which Cyrus -had worn on state occasions, and the royal scepter were -brought forth. Clad in purple, and having the high, -pointed crown on his head, his royal feet encased in yellow -shoes, and his hair and whiskers curled, powdered, -and perfumed, Cambyses held his first court in the great -audience room of the palace. He sat on a golden throne -placed high up on a dais, with fan-bearers waving ostrich -plumes over him, with Prexaspes standing at his right -hand and Merobates at his left, bearing the King’s sword -and shield. He placed the crown on his head with his -own hands, while a loud-voiced herald recited his titles. -Then the thousand nobles and officers who were in attendance -fell on their faces to the floor before him and -hailed him King of Kings, the Great King! Cambyses, -swelling with pride, deemed himself divine, and as a god -he looked down upon his subjects with haughty demeanor.</p> - -<p>The world thus acquired a new ruler.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_76">[76]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER VI<br /> - - -<small>PERSEPOLIS</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">THE modern world knows little of the beauty and -grandeur of ancient Anshan, the home of Cyrus, or -of the province of Fars and its cities. Mountains shut -off from them the hot winds of the Persian Gulf and of -the northern deserts. The high valleys lying between -the mountain ranges that extend across it like huge dikes -are of surpassing loveliness. Romantic woodlands, dells, -lakes, canyons, murmuring brooks, rushing rivers, far -vistas, plains, mountains, and hills delight the soul. In -the valleys, flowers perfume the air all the year, and vegetation, -where irrigation is practiced, is luxuriant. On -the high hills and mountain tops winter holds sway during -three or more months and the seasons are well-marked -as in the temperate zones. It is the land of -Omar, of Firdusi, and of many lesser poets; the land of -an ancient white race, whose rugged virtues made them -lords of much of the earth, but whose descendants have -degenerated by admixture with lower grades of humanity -and have suffered much to maintain even their own independence.</p> - -<p>The celebrated plain of Mervdasht is between two -parallel ranges of mountains, one of which lies to the -west between it and the low hot lands of the gulf-coast -and the other to the east between it and the vale of -Murghab, or ancient Anshan. A river comes down from -the northern mountains through the midst of this plain<span class="pagenum" id="Page_77">[77]</span> -and empties into a lake. It is a perennial stream, but -fordable save in the winter when the rains fall. It has -been variously named, anciently the Araxes, later the -Kur or river of Cyrus, and again the Bendamir. Another -river of less volume but more celebrated, the -Pulwar, comes down to join it through the mountains -from northeast table-lands. This passes by the vale of -Murghab, where a little stream of that name, coming from -the east, flows into it. In this vale was ancient Anshan, -the capital of the Achæmenian line of kings, a city also -known as Pasargadæ. The tortuous bed of the Pulwar -connects the vale of Murghab with the valley of Mervdasht, -having cut for itself a deep gorge through the -mountains. A royal road, passing through this gorge or -canyon, connected the ancient capital with a more modern -city, Persepolis.</p> - -<p>Persepolis, or the city of the Persians, ancient Parsa, -lay close to the mouth of the mighty canyon of the Pulwar, -where it opened into the vale of Mervdasht. The -city lay principally on the northern banks of the river. -On the southern bank was a great park; and in this on a -plateau extending from the base of low mountains that -border the eastern side of the plain, were the palaces of -the Kings of Iran. King Hystaspis and his great son, -Darius, and his grandson, Xerxes, each erected magnificent -palaces of dark-gray marble on this natural platform. -The great size and magnificent architecture of -these buildings were among the wonders of the ancient -world. Their majestic ruins yet testify to the power, the -love of art, and the learning of those masters of men.</p> - -<p>King Hystaspis, content to rule Iran as a nominal -vassal of Cyrus and under the shadow of his mighty arm, -laid out for himself in the valley of Merv a new city and -there placed his loved friends and retainers. He<span class="pagenum" id="Page_78">[78]</span> -brought artisans from Egypt, Canaan, Syria, Phœnicia, -and distant Greece, and built for himself a great palace. -It is said that he or his son formulated a new alphabet -for his language and caused the books of Zoroaster to be -translated therein.</p> - -<p>Orchards of apple, peach, and apricot, vineyards -where grape and berry grew, fields of vegetables and -grain, covered the fertile valley and its surrounding hills. -On the day when the Imperial Guard, escorting the body -of the Great Cyrus, halted on the summit of the western -ridge bounding the valley and looked down upon the -peaceful scene, autumn was touching all with the signs -of harvest and the coming winter-rest. On that day, -while the funeral car halted, Prince Bardya, his sisters, -and the Prince of Iran rode forward to a bluff jutting -out from the ridge; and from this position they looked -down into a paradise,—so it seemed to them, weary with -dusty roads and desert lands. There, where the Pulwar -entered the plain from the narrow gorge in the western -mountains, Cyrus had drawn up his Persian patriots to -fight a last battle for liberty from the Medean yoke, having -been driven to bay by the vast army of stern old -Astyages, his grandfather. That decisive battle not only -gave liberty to his own province but gave Astyages to -him as a prisoner and the crown of Medea for his own -head. From that victory Cyrus had gone forth to conquer -the world. But now, conquered by the last enemy, -Death, he was returning there to his final rest. The -heart of the Prince of Iran was stirred by strong emotions, -as he looked across the beautiful vale. He could -see afar the great portico of his father’s palace where, he -knew, his mother stood watching for the coming of her -son. Uncovering his head, he extended his hands towards -heaven, saying:</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_79">[79]</span>“To thee, O Ahura-Mazda, Ruler of Heaven, Giver of -Life, Lover of Truth, and Protector, we give thanks! -For thou hast brought us home!”</p> - -<p>“Amen and amen!” exclaimed Bardya, uncovering his -head.</p> - -<p>The Prince of Iran then addressed his companions: -“I welcome you to the home of King Hystaspis. This -valley and yonder city are his property, ceded to him as a -home for the Achæmenian family, when he consented to -remove hither from Bactra. I bid you rest at our palace -yonder this night. The road from Parsa to Anshan is -rough and ought to be traveled only by day. My mother -is at the door to welcome you.”</p> - -<p>“We gladly accept!” assented Bardya, heartily. “Do -I not love that mother almost as much as you? Do you -remember the happy days when we hunted on yonder -hills and swam in the Pulwar and the Araxes? Do you -remember the day we were almost drowned? We will -go to that deep water-hole again to-morrow and swim -there as boys again. Our troopers should rest a day -while we send a message to Cambyses at Anshan to -inform him of our coming.”</p> - -<p>Athura added: “It will be delightful to accept the -hospitality of your mother. I shall return after going -to Anshan and shall stay long with her and rest. My -sister is much in need of rest. The long journey has -made her ill.”</p> - -<p>“After we shall have accomplished our mission,” said -the Prince of Iran, “we shall enjoy many pleasant days -there. The hunting is good. We shall enjoy the royal -sport!”</p> - -<p>“Unless Ahriman interfere!” added Bardya, waving -his hand towards Anshan, where his brother now -awaited their coming. “I propose to stay a month at -least. I suppose he awaits us impatiently at Anshan.”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_80">[80]</span>Athura said reprovingly to her brother: “Speak not -of the King of Kings thus! He has sent us courteous -messages, even if he would not await us at Hamadan -or march with us here. Perhaps it was best that he -should go on ahead to prepare the tomb and to arrange -for the ceremonies. Be advised, brother! Remember -to show him the deference due to his station. His -anger was ever terrible! Now he has no one to restrain -him.”</p> - -<p>Bardya laughed and tossed his head, as he answered: -“Fear not for me! I shall treat him with all due respect. -Am I not on the ground my father gave me in -his will? The Persian lords will not permit him to -oppress us. When I see that King of Kings, I will demand -of him that he publish the full terms of my -father’s will. If he refuse to observe that—Well, it -may be that he will cease to reign!”</p> - -<p>The Prince of Iran said nothing, but his countenance -was somber. He feared that the impetuous Bardya -would precipitate trouble. He foresaw civil war.</p> - -<p>Descending into the valley, they approached Persepolis. -A vast throng of people came out to meet them -and stood on either side of the road weeping and wailing -aloud as the funeral car passed. A company of guards -led by an aged veteran met them at the entrance of the -city.</p> - -<p>Prince Darius greeted the leader warmly: “Ho, -Orobates, our beloved High Chamberlain! How fares -my royal mother?”</p> - -<p>“All hail, Prince of Iran!” cried the stately old man, -kissing the Prince’s cheeks as the latter bent down to -greet him. “God’s blessing of long life and happiness -be upon you! How good it is to behold you once more! -Your mother, our most gracious Queen, is well and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_81">[81]</span> -awaits you at the palace. She begs that you will prevail -upon the royal Bardya and his sisters to honor her house -with their presence. All things are prepared. The best -of the herds, the finest game from the mountains, the -daintiest fruits and flowers,—all are ready!”</p> - -<p>“They have consented to honor us, Orobates. Has -my mother good health and is she happy?”</p> - -<p>“Excellent health, gracious Prince; but she sighs much -for you and the King.”</p> - -<p>“Did Cambyses, the Great King, honor our house with -his presence?”</p> - -<p>“He refused our bidding on the plea that he was in -haste to reach Anshan on state business. But he sent -a gracious greeting to your mother.”</p> - -<p>The Prince led the caravan into the city, nodding and -waving greeting to many whom he had known when a -child. Crossing the Araxes over a magnificent stone -bridge, the cortège marched into Persepolis and encamped -in a great open field on the shore of the Pulwar. -The funeral car was driven into the sacred enclosing wall -of a temple and there rested till a messenger went to -Cambyses and returned.</p> - -<p>Leaving the cares of the encampment to subordinates, -the Prince of Iran, accompanied by Gobryas and some of -his chief officers, conducted Bardya and his sisters across -the Pulwar over a beautiful stone bridge of one great -arch and through the park to his father’s palace. The -limpid stream, the great oaks, elms, walnuts, and plane -trees, whose foliage was tinged with gold and red, the -flowering shrubs, the fountains, and the greensward, -smiled a joyful welcome to the weary travelers. Broad -steps, leading up to the great plateau or bench on which -the palace stood, gleamed white through the tree-limbs. -Slender gray columns adorned the portico. On the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_82">[82]</span> -stairs stood a group of women, and among them a stately -dame, who waved her hand in welcome. Prince Darius -galloped on ahead to the foot of the steps and, leaving -his horse in charge of an attendant, ran up into the embrace -of his mother.</p> - -<p>Age had not greatly affected the beauty of the Queen -of Iran nor dimmed her blue eyes. Her gray hair was -gathered in a net at the back of her head and was encircled -by a golden band set with sparkling gems. Her -dress was an ample purple robe reaching to her feet and -encircled at the waist with a silken sash. Its loose sleeves -revealed arms still shapely and adorned with bracelets -of gold. The gracious majesty of her countenance, the -sweetness of her smile, and the soft accents of her voice -were celebrated in Iran.</p> - -<p>That was an age when wife and mother were not -slaves or prisoners. Recognized as the equal of men, -their virtues and loveliness made homes where men were -grown. Not yet had Cambyses, aping the manners and -customs of the dwellers in Mesopotamia, Syria, and -Arabia, degraded women to the seclusion of harems; nor -had custom forbidden women to appear before friends -unveiled, though veils were commonly worn in public -places. Polygamy was almost unknown in Iran, though -its practice had crept into Medea. The wife was queen -of the home and ruled in the heart of her husband.</p> - -<p>The Prince knelt at his mother’s feet, and her arms -encircled his neck while her lips kissed his brow. “Welcome -home, beloved son!” she exclaimed. “Long days -have intervened since you waved farewell to me from -yonder bridge; but no day has passed that I did not -think of you!”</p> - -<p>She raised him up and stood proudly at his side, leaning -on his arm, while she welcomed Prince Bardya and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_83">[83]</span> -his sisters. To Bardya she said as he bent his knee -before her: “The blessing of Ahura-Mazda be upon -you, O Prince of the World! Arise! It is not meet -that you kneel to me! Welcome to the palace of my -lord, the King of Iran!”</p> - -<p>“Gracious Queen,” replied Bardya as he arose, “I -kneel to you as to my mother! Next to her, who lives -only in my memory, do I love and reverence the mother -of my friend, the Prince of Iran. Have we not, in -years past, stood together at your knee and received -your instruction? Now that we are indeed orphans we -come to you for consolation.”</p> - -<p>Tears filled the great lady’s eyes. She embraced -Athura and Artistone tenderly; and, leaving the men to -the care of her son, she took the girls with her to her -own apartments and personally saw that they were made -comfortable. While they are removing the dust of the -road and enrobing themselves for dinner, we may wander -in spirit through this typical palace of the Achæmenian -kings and observe its grandeur.</p> - -<p>From the portico which extended the full breadth of -the palace front, an entrancing view of valley and mountain, -of river and park, could be had. Sixteen slender, -fluted, marble pillars supported the massive wooden roof -of the portico. Their capitals were winged bulls; their -bases were bell-shaped and carved to imitate lotus buds. -A high, narrow door gave entrance from the front -through the thick stone walls into a hall, on either side -of which were rooms where the palace-guards had their -abode. The hall led into a reception room fully fifty -feet square, whose walls were pierced by a dozen narrow -windows and whose ceiling of heavy carved timbers was -upheld by slender wooden pillars covered with silver -plates. The stone walls were hidden by beaten silver<span class="pagenum" id="Page_84">[84]</span> -plates and the windows and doors were hung with -tapestries of fine crimson and purple fabrics. Wooden -shutters were fitted to the windows, but were now open -to admit air and light. Later, when winter should come -with its rains and frost, the windows would be closed -by semi-transparent oiled silk. Red and purple rugs lay -on the tiled floor, partially covering the various patterns -worked out in colored tiles. A throne, shining with -gold plate, occupied a raised platform at the end of the -room opposite the entrance. Cushioned chairs, divans, -and couches, tables of polished wood, mirrors of polished -silver and bronze, lamps of many patterns fastened to -the pillars and walls, and a cabinet of dark inlaid wood -comprised the furniture. The cabinet held a collection -of books, rolls, and tablets, the library and the special -treasure of the King of Iran.</p> - -<p>Doors at the right of the throne led into the apartments -of the men; at the left, into the apartments of the women; -and, immediately at the rear, into a small open court, -beyond which were the servants’ quarters. Banquets of -state were held in the throne room, but ordinarily the -tables were laid in the small open court. The various -apartments were furnished with couches, and with blankets -and rugs of skillful weaving and of that fineness -and texture for which the woven products of Iran have -ever been famous. All the conveniences of an advanced -civilization, which power and wealth could provide or -gather from the many nations over which the Persians -held sway, were here. Baths and toilets fed by water -piped from the hills, and drained into the Pulwar below, -ornamental cabinets, containing scents and cosmetics for -adorning the person, wardrobes full of costly dresses -made of silk and fine linen, mirrors, combs, and brushes—even -the modern homes of many so-called civilized -people could boast no better.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_85">[85]</span>A narrow stair led up from the inner court to the -flat roof, where the occupants of the palace, reclining -on soft divans, under canopies or sunshades, could pass -the warmer hours of the day, breathe the cool mountain -air, and enjoy the lovely scenes. Looking down from -it, one could see the royal stables five hundred paces to -the south in the park, where scores of graceful horses -were kept; and farther on was the inclosure where cattle -and sheep, driven in from the mountain pastures, were -ready to furnish the royal table with meat or milk. A -canal led from the Pulwar above the palace through the -park to the stables below and thence into luxuriant -gardens where servants toiled to supply their master’s -table with vegetables. Fowls, dogs, horses, and cattle -enlivened the barnyard scene. Servants in gay tunics, -loose, fringed trousers, and with sandaled feet went -hither and thither on their duties. Guards in shining -armor walked their beats through the park or lazily -stood leaning on their spears at the palace steps.</p> - -<p>While the guests were removing the dust and stains -of travel, servants busily prepared the banquet. Tables -of walnut, plated with silver and bound together by -golden bands fastened with copper nails, were set in the -great audience hall. Platters of beautiful porcelain or -of beaten silver, piled high with fruits and bread, were -placed on them, and plates of silver and cups of gold -were also brought forth. Low seats whereon the guests -could either sit or recline were set in order. A major-domo -in gorgeous livery saw that all things were made -ready. Then the guests were called. The men were -seated at one table; the women, at another. Prince -Darius sat at the head of the former; his mother at the -head of the latter. Servants brought on, in regular -courses, fish, steaming loads of venison and fowl, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_86">[86]</span> -bountiful supplies of vegetables and pastry. Water, -milk, and wine of Helbon were the drinks, the latter -being used sparingly. With appetites sharpened by a -long day’s journey in the bracing air of the mountains, -the guests did full justice to the viands. While they -ate, the soft music of harps, played with considerable -skill by musicians in the court, floated in through the -open doors.</p> - -<p>The banquet hour having passed, the officers and -nobles returned to the camp, while Prince Bardya and -his sisters accompanied Prince Darius and his mother -to a room adjacent to the dining-hall, used by the King -of Iran when at home as an office. A large fireplace -in one corner of the room was filled with a cheerful -blaze. Gathered about the fire, guests and hosts felt -much at home and spent a pleasant hour in conversation.</p> - -<p>“Now that Cambyses passed through your city with -scant courtesy,” Bardya said, somewhat warmed by the -wine he had imbibed and by his genial surroundings, so -that he felt called upon to express his indignation towards -his brother, “what think you of such a king?” -He addressed Queen Hystaspis.</p> - -<p>“I marvel not at his action,” she replied quietly. “He -was never kindly disposed towards us. But it is not -for us to find fault. I should have met him in person -and given the invitation to stop with us. I would have -so done, had I not heard that he believes, with the Medes, -that women have no place in the affairs of men. He -passed through our city in a closed litter, not even deigning -to see our messengers. He made reply through -his chamberlain that the King of Kings was indisposed -and pressed for time and would not rest till he should -arrive at his palace in Anshan.”</p> - -<p>“He has ever been ill-natured!” continued Bardya,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_87">[87]</span> -bitterly. “He believes himself heaven-born! He will -end by declaring himself a god and appointing set times -to worship him! What think you the nobles of Persia -will say of his manners? It is said he has determined -to decree a law of polygamy, and, like the Arabs, -fill a harem with many wives. He is a follower of the -Magi; but I doubt if he believes in the gods. I know -he will never abide by our father’s will. As I have -ridden from Bactra hither, I have thought much; and -I have concluded that the kingdom will be his who can -strike first!”</p> - -<p>The Prince had never before spoken his inmost -thoughts. The Prince of Iran and his mother, though -much disturbed, remained silent. Athura said reprovingly: -“Brother, is it right to have such thoughts before -our father’s body is entombed? Wisdom demands -silence on your part until you see the King! As King -he may act justly. If you stir up trouble, civil war may -be the result. Let us be wise and discreet until we -return to Bactra, from which you ought never to have -departed! Then, if he act unjustly, the people of Iran -will stand justly with you.”</p> - -<p>“What say you, my brother?” demanded Bardya, -turning to the Prince.</p> - -<p>The latter answered at once and without hesitation: -“The words of your sister are wise. Cambyses is King -of Kings by right of birth and by the will of Cyrus. I -am bound by an oath to support him in that right. It -is not wise to plan against the will of Cyrus, nor is it -even wise to discuss the matter. While we are safe -here, an unwise word uttered at another place, and overheard, -may cause great trouble. As for me, I shall ask -of Cambyses, the King, two favors,—first that I may -receive the reward that Cyrus, the Great King, promised;<span class="pagenum" id="Page_88">[88]</span> -second, that I may accompany you to Bactra after my -father returns here.”</p> - -<p>Athura smiled and blushed, as the Prince mentioned -his promised reward and turned his ardent gaze upon her. -Bardya arose and paced back and forth.</p> - -<p>“Alas! that my father should bind you and the powerful -King, your father, with an oath!” he cried. “My -way would otherwise be clear! Yes! let us be wise and -patient! You shall come with me to Bactra, and together -we shall extend the empire even as far as the -great river of India and beyond the roof of the world -where the slant-eyed Tourans dwell! King Hystaspis -shall rule Iran in peace, while you and I lead victorious -armies to the ends of the earth! Then we shall see -who ought to be overlord of the world!”</p> - -<p>The Prince of Iran now sought to change the subject -by suggesting that before leaving for Bactra they must -hunt a lion in the jungles of Lake Baktigan. Plans for -a hunting-trip to that wild region superseded more -treasonable subjects. After a while, the guests admitted -weariness and retired to rest. But the Prince of Iran -threw a cloak about his shoulders and went out to walk -in the park now flooded with moonlight. The watchmen -respectfully saluted as he passed down the broad steps -and went slowly towards the river. How pleasant it -seemed after a year of war in desert lands to be at home! -He could not retire to rest without standing awhile on -the bridge over the Pulwar and looking down at the -familiar hurrying waters.</p> - -<p>Before he reached the bridge, he was startled by the -sound of pursuing footsteps. Turning, he beheld Athura -approaching, followed by one of the guards.</p> - -<p>“Pardon, Lord Hystaspis!” she exclaimed, as he went -back to meet her in wondering haste. “So glorious is<span class="pagenum" id="Page_89">[89]</span> -the moonlight and so restless am I, that when I saw you -come forth, I could not resist an impulse to follow! Let -me walk with you.”</p> - -<p>“Most happy am I to have you with me, Athura, star -of the evening! The light of your eyes surpasses the -light of the stars! Your countenance, like the sun, -brings warmth to my soul! Glad will that day be, when -you shall become my wife; and we shall walk together -thereafter forever!”</p> - -<p>He dismissed the guard. Then with his strong right -arm around the princess and his ample cloak shielding -both, they went on together. She laughed happily.</p> - -<p>“Indeed, my lord, you have the tongue of a poet!” -she said. “What says the great Zoroaster of this -land?</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> -<div class="first">“Ahura-Mazda looked upon the desert lands</div> -<div class="verse">And with his mighty breath gave life to them;</div> -<div class="verse">Where none could dwell before he poured out life,</div> -<div class="verse">And Aryans lived and multiplied in peace,</div> -<div class="verse">Until their numbers were as desert sands.</div> -</div></div> - -<p>Was not his thought inspired by such nights as this?”</p> - -<p>“It may have been,” he answered. “But does he not -continue:</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> -<div class="first">“Then Angro-mainyus, death’s dark spirit made</div> -<div class="verse">That mighty serpent, Winter, with its snow,</div> -<div class="verse">To swallow up within its months of cold</div> -<div class="verse">The teeming earth, the flowing water-streams,</div> -<div class="verse">While storm-clouds cast upon the earth their pestilent shade.”</div> -</div></div> - -<p>“You are melancholy, Prince of Iran! Let us not -think of Angro-mainyus. Are the days not passing -swiftly? When the forty days of mourning shall have -passed, shall we not be happy?”</p> - -<p>He drew her closely to him. “Most happy, beloved!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_90">[90]</span> -But I am filled with forebodings of evil. Like some -threatening Angro-mainyus, jealously watching the Spirit -of Life at his creation and the children of men in their -happiness, does the form of the new King of Kings loom -up in the sky. I seem to feel even now the malignant -hate with which he ever seemed to regard Bardya, and -me because I was Bardya’s friend. When I think of the -absolute power of life and death vested in him and his -opportunity to wreak vengeance upon those he hates, I -am troubled. What if he refuse to give you to me? -What if he choose to bestow you upon another?”</p> - -<p>He felt the small hand now resting in his clench and -harden. She looked up into his face as she answered -slowly and solemnly:</p> - -<p>“As for me, though he inflict death, yet shall he not -bend my will! I have chosen you alone of all the world. -Your wife I shall be or I shall die. Listen, Prince of -Iran! I am moved to say—some spirit prompts my -soul to salute you, King of Kings and Lord of Lords. -At your side shall I be Queen of the world! Is it not -to be so?”</p> - -<p>He drew her closer to him and kissed her forehead. -“Hush, life of mine!” he replied. “Start no such -thoughts in my soul! Am I not oath-bound? If I were -not so, should I plunge Iran into bloody civil war that I -may wear a crown? Let Ahura-Mazda’s will be done! -If Cambyses and Bardya cease to exist, in spite of my -loyal support, then shall I deem myself most fortunate -to sit on the throne of Cyrus at the side of his daughter. -Ah, if only Cambyses had a soul like Athura, what a -happy year would this be for the nations!”</p> - -<p>Twenty-five centuries have come and gone since they -stood on the old stone bridge over the Pulwar and renewed -their pledges of undying love and faith. Myriads<span class="pagenum" id="Page_91">[91]</span> -since then have gazed into each other’s eyes and pledged -the same faith, moved by the same love; but the story is -ever fresh and the love is ever sacred, sweet, and entrancing. -Only traces of the old stone bridge over the -Pulwar remain. The tall, slender shafts of marble with -which the neighboring palace was adorned are tumbled -and broken; and over the ruins of the neighboring city -the wild dog wanders and bays at the moon. Perhaps -the spirits of those heroic two who stood on the old -bridge, listening to the murmur of the waters below, -while they murmured to each other, may return there -again and again, to live once more in the ecstasy of love. -Who knows?</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_92">[92]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER VII<br /> - - -<small>“I AM CYRUS, THE KING, THE ACHÆMENIAN!”</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">WHERE the Pulwar turns westward from its southerly -course to break through the mountains on its -way to the Araxes, the little mountain stream Mur -joins it from the east. In a vale, at the junction of the -rivers and extending far up along the Mur, was the -city of Anshan, better known as Pasargadæ, “the Castle -of the Persians.” In the midst of the city, Cyrus -had erected a great palace of marble, surrounded by a -magnificent colonnade, and, near this, a tomb. The base -of the tomb was pyramidal and on its truncated top was -a small marble building, much like a Grecian temple, -which was to receive the royal coffin. On the lintel of -the palace-gate and above the door of the tomb was engraved -the legend, “I am Cyrus, the King, the Achæmenian!” -No other record of his acts did he make. -That was all, as if no other Cyrus ever had lived or -could live, who would take from him the attention of -men.</p> - -<p>Another great palace stood on an artificial platform -of massive stones at the north side of the valley and a -quarter-mile or so from the tomb. This building was -ancient even at the time of which we write. It had -been for centuries the dwelling of that branch of the -Achæmenian family of which Cyrus was the greatest. -Below and west of the palaces, at the junction of the -streams, were the barracks of the Imperial Guards and -their parade-ground. Above and on the south side of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_93">[93]</span> -the valley lay the city with its narrow streets, its great -market-place, its stores and dwellings. Many roads -radiated from the city to all parts of the province, some -following the beds of the streams and others crossing -over ridges and spurs of the mountains, or excavated in -the sides of the hills and by bridges passing over deep -chasms.</p> - -<p>Cambyses, with one of his wives and his servants, upon -their arrival at Anshan, took possession of the new palace -of Cyrus and remained in seclusion. He gave little -thought to the preparations for the funeral, leaving the -management to Prexaspes, now his Lord High Chamberlain, -and to the nobles and priests in charge of public -services and worship. It was perhaps well for him that -he did, since Prexaspes was gracious and tactful. He -explained to all who were disposed to complain because -Cambyses was inaccessible, that his royal master chose -to remain in seclusion on account of his great grief. He -flattered one and asked advice of another. He impressed -the burly nobles of Persia so well that when the day for -the funeral arrived, they were inclined to think well of -Cambyses.</p> - -<p>The time approached when the body of Cyrus should -be placed in its tomb. All roads leading to the capital -city had been for a week enlivened by people coming -from all parts of Iran and even from many foreign -provinces, to witness the solemn ceremony and incidentally -to gaze upon the new King. On horseback, in -carts drawn by oxen or donkeys, on camels or in litters -borne on the shoulders of slaves, the nobles and the -wealthier came; while the lowly plodded along on foot -carrying their food on their backs. The city became a -vast camp, and the hills surrounding it were dotted with -tents and booths.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_94">[94]</span>Great multitudes of people massed themselves along -the road leading down to the Pulwar, on the morning of -that day, to await the coming of the funeral cortège approaching -from Persepolis. It was noon before the -Prince of Iran with a company of the Imperial Guard -and the funeral car appeared on the bridge which spanned -the Pulwar, and, followed by a vast train, slowly defiled -across to the parade-ground. The great car, drawn by -eight white horses and followed by chariots in which -rode Prince Bardya and his sisters, moved slowly to the -center of the parade-ground and there halted. The remainder -of the Imperial Guard then crossed and formed -in open square around the car. The people massed themselves -on every side, leaving only a narrow road open to -the city, through which the King would come to greet -his sire’s body.</p> - -<p>An officer was despatched to the palace to notify the -King. A sentinel in the gaudy uniform of a palace-guard -met and conducted the messenger into the outer hall of -the palace, where he was received by Prexaspes.</p> - -<p>“I bear a message from the Prince of Iran to the King -of Kings,” he said, bowing low before the Lord High -Chamberlain.</p> - -<p>“I am Prexaspes, the Lord High Chamberlain,” responded -Prexaspes. “Give me the message. I will bear -it to him. He is at dinner.”</p> - -<p>“I am directed by the royal Prince of Iran to report -that the Imperial Guard has arrived with the body of the -Great King, Cyrus, King of Kings and Lord of Lords. -We are ready to deliver our charge over to the King’s -hands. We await his orders.”</p> - -<p>“It is well. Remain here. I will go in to the King.”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes disappeared through a door, the heavy -curtains over which at a motion of his hand were drawn<span class="pagenum" id="Page_95">[95]</span> -aside by a page. He proceeded slowly and solemnly to -the door of the banquet-room, where a guard in armor -stood aside while he knocked. A harsh voice commanded -him to enter. He opened the door and went in, -falling gracefully on one knee as he saw the King. The -latter was reclining at a table, with only his Assyrian wife -for company. The woman hastily drew a veil over her -face as Prexaspes appeared.</p> - -<p>“What now?” demanded the King, frowning. “Am -I not to eat in peace? Presume not too far, Lord -Prexaspes! Speak!”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes rose and, clasping his hands before him in -humble attitude, with his eyes directed to the floor lest -they might look upon the Queen, answered, “Let not my -gracious Lord be offended! A messenger has come from -the Prince of Iran announcing his arrival with your -lamented father’s body at the parade-ground by the Pulwar. -I recall that you directed he should await you -there, in order that you might ride forth and do honor -to the great dead and thus gain favor with the people -who loved him.”</p> - -<p>“Please the people! Bah! Pigs and dogs are they!” -snorted the King. “Nevertheless your words contain -wisdom. I will follow your advice until such time as -there can be no choice of kings in this realm. Have my -horse ready. Call out my new Imperial Guard. One -can never say what that Bardya may attempt or what -assassins lurk about. Send my armor to the dressing-room. -Begone!”</p> - -<p>The King turned away and raised to his lips a huge -cup, wherein sparkled the royal wine of Helbon. Prexaspes -backed out of the room. He told the messenger -to return to the Prince of Iran and command him to -await the coming of the King. Arraying himself in<span class="pagenum" id="Page_96">[96]</span> -brilliant armor, he mounted a horse and marshaled the -guards, the nobles, the captive potentates who ate at the -Great King’s table, and all the notables of the city, in -due order.</p> - -<p>The King, clad in flexible golden mail and wearing a -plain black cap on his head, after some delay came forth -and mounted his horse. The illustrious company then -moved solemnly down towards the parade-ground. A -score of uniformed officers rode in front with spears -held perpendicularly, the hafts resting on their stirrups. -After them rode the King, followed by Prexaspes and a -company of guards. The nobles and notables followed. -The King’s expression was gloomy and abstracted. He -looked over the heads of the people, and his glance was -high and haughty.</p> - -<p>Moved by habit, the people bowed low as he went by -and remained thus until he had quite passed. There was -no sound. Had Cyrus been passing, roars of worshipful -shouts would have greeted him from all sides. Cambyses -knew this and in his heart raged because of the silence. -His square, heavy body, his bull neck, and his round, -bloated face suggested to the people no majesty. A -murmur ran through the masses in which were mingled -fear and derision.</p> - -<p>At one point the crowd pressed too heavily and forced -back the guards drawn up at the sides of the way. -Cambyses, whose horse shied somewhat at the commotion -as the guards endeavored to drive the crowd back, shouted -angrily: “Beat the dogs back! Use the points of your -spears!” The guards, thus urged, smote lustily with the -hafts of their spears, bringing cries of agony and imprecations -from the hapless ones who received their -blows. The crowd surged back and the King passed on -without further comment.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_97">[97]</span>Meanwhile Bardya and his sisters and the Prince of -Iran patiently waited the coming of the King. The -Prince occupied himself in passing slowly along the -massed ranks of the Guard, greeting his veteran comrades -with a word of praise or inquiry and granting them leave -to return home for a twenty days’ furlough. A guard -of twenty officers stood around the funeral car and -grooms stood at the heads of the white horses hitched -to it. Two other grooms held by the bits the war-horse -on which Cyrus had been mounted when stricken by the -fatal dart. The noble animal pricked up his sharp ears -and looked about with interested, intelligent eyes, not -understanding that he was about to be sacrificed to -Ahura-Mazda in honor of his master.</p> - -<p>Bardya and several Persians of high degree, among -whom were three of the seven lords of Persia, Gobryas, -Metaphernes, and Aspathines, were standing in a group -near the car. Upon them the Prince of Iran cast many -uneasy glances. He feared plots and treason. Some -paces from them were two litters with drawn curtains, -wherein rested the Princesses Athura and Artistone.</p> - -<p>A subdued murmur rose from the multitudes as they -waited. The veteran troopers commented on all things -and all men, some of their remarks being decidedly -treasonable.</p> - -<p>“By rights,” growled one, whose whiskers covered the -larger part of his face and chest, “our Prince here ought -to be King of Kings! May Ahriman fly away with -oaths! Now this Cambyses is no soldier. As for -Bardya, he compares not with our Prince.”</p> - -<p>“Right!” admitted his neighbor. “Cyrus lives in the -Prince of Iran. The King is a drunken savage. Prince -Bardya is a gentle giant of no great wit. It is said the -Princess Athura is most like her father. She and our<span class="pagenum" id="Page_98">[98]</span> -Prince will marry. Cyrus promised it. God send the -day when our Prince shall wear the double crown and -she shall stand at his side as Queen!”</p> - -<p>“Treason, brother!” chided a third. “Hush! Let -your jaws cease to wag of royalty.”</p> - -<p>Finally the King appeared. He drew near to the -funeral car alone. His gloomy, black eyes rested coldly -for a moment upon his brother, to whom he bent his -head slightly. Bardya returned his salutation with a low, -somewhat ironical bow. At that instant the Prince of -Iran, who had drawn near, raised his hand as a signal, -and instantly a crash of spear-hafts dashed against bucklers, -a roar of voices from the Guard and fanfare of -trumpets, sounded in royal salute. The old Imperial -Guard thus recognized the new King of Kings. Cambyses, -at first startled, flushed with pleasure and acknowledged -the salute with bow and wave of hand. The -great lords of Persia now advanced, one to hold his -horse, another to hold his stirrup, and a third to receive -the imperial scepter from his hand as he dismounted.</p> - -<p>Having safely dismounted, Cambyses turned to his -brother and said, “Well, Prince, we meet under altered -circumstances! If I recollect rightly, our last meeting -was somewhat unpleasant, resulting in guard-house treatment -for me on account of you. But on this day we -forget old animosities and bury our sire’s body. Afterwards -I shall have somewhat to say to you.”</p> - -<p>“I have forgotten the incident referred to,” answered -Bardya, coldly. “We are here now to honor the dead. -Afterwards I shall be pleased to converse with you about -the welfare of our empire.”</p> - -<p>Cambyses said no more. Uncovering his head, he approached -the funeral car and bowed his head towards it, -remaining thus a moment as if in prayer. Silence fell<span class="pagenum" id="Page_99">[99]</span> -upon the people as they watched the King. Then the -sound of weeping began. A wave of grief and sympathy -swept over the assembled multitude. The King was -mourning. The people mourned also.</p> - -<p>Having thus greeted the spirit of his sire, Cambyses -turned away and went to the litters where his sisters -reclined. They came forth and bowed to him in greeting. -He kissed their foreheads, saying: “It is a great -pleasure to have you near me. You shall have the old -palace for your residence,—you and Prince Bardya,—while -you remain here. At a more fitting time we shall -renew our acquaintance.”</p> - -<p>Then he remounted his horse and ordered the final -march to begin. Prexaspes with the King’s body-guard -led the way back to the city. The funeral car followed. -The King rode behind it and, following him, were -Prince Bardya, the Prince of Iran, the Princesses, and -the great nobles. The lesser notables and the Imperial -Guard marched next, followed by the people. Thus with -royal pomp, amidst the mourning of his people, Cyrus, -the Great King, the Achæmenian, completed his worldly -march. A band of white-robed priests slaughtered the -noble war-horse and presented his blood and burned -portions of his flesh as a sacrifice to Ahura-Mazda, with -many prayers. The solemn chants being ended, the -golden casket in which the body of the great dead was -encased was carried up the steps of the pyramid and -deposited in the temple-like vault on its top. The brazen -door of the tomb was closed, bolted, and sealed and a -guard set over it. The people then dispersed.</p> - -<p>The King made a decree by which a special order of -military rank was instituted, whose sole duty it was -to watch the tomb, that no man should disturb the sacred -body of the hero.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_100">[100]</span>So was laid to rest the body of the most knightly -king and heroic figure of ancient Iran. The great Darius -probably equaled him in generalship and excelled him -in statesmanship; but the brilliant career, the gentle and -knightly qualities, and the heroic spirit of Cyrus, are -without parallel in ancient story. Not until the great -Alexander flashed across the western sky did any meteor -excel in brightness him whose simple epitaph was, “I am -Cyrus, the King, the Achæmenian!”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_101">[101]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER VIII<br /> - - -<small>A ROYAL COUNCIL AND A ROYAL HUNT</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">IT was the day after the funeral of Cyrus. Cambyses, -the Great King, was in a black humor. The fatigue -incident to the funeral services and the reaction from -intoxication caused by too much drink, indulged in afterward, -had darkened his vision and sharpened his -acerbity. When he awoke and sat up on his silk-covered -couch, he felt the need of immediate refreshment. He -jerked a cord hanging conveniently at hand, and a bell -jangled in an adjoining hall. Instantly two servants -appeared, slipping in between the heavy folds of a curtain -at the doorway, and prostrated themselves before -him.</p> - -<p>“Rise up, dogs! Bring me soma!” he roared.</p> - -<p>Swiftly and noiselessly as fleeting shadows they arose -and disappeared. In a moment the King’s cup-bearer -appeared with a golden goblet in hand, followed by the -servants bearing a vessel of milky, fiery liquid. The -cup-bearer bowed low, the servants set down the jar and -were about to prostrate themselves again, when Cambyses -cried impatiently, “Omit salutations and pour!”</p> - -<p>The potent fluid sparkled as it flowed into the goblet -from the vessel. Twice was the goblet filled and twice -did he drain it. “Begone!” he then commanded. -“Send the bath hither!”</p> - -<p>Cup-bearer and servants withdrew, walking backward. -A moment later the servants came in again, bearing a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_102">[102]</span> -large tub of water. With their assistance the King proceeded -to bathe. Unfortunately for one, he dropped a -towel and received a buffet from the King’s fist that -caused him to reel.</p> - -<p>“Have care!” roared Cambyses. “To the guard-house -you go to-day and thence to the kitchen as scullion!”</p> - -<p>The man prostrated himself and prayed for pardon. -Royalty made no sign and he withdrew. Another came -to take his place. After the bath, the King’s hair was -combed, curled, and perfumed. The royal barber -trimmed his whiskers deftly and carefully waxed them. -Then he was arrayed in fine linen and purple. His -breakfast was brought into the room, and he sat down -to eat. He then sent a page to summon Prexaspes. The -latter, elegantly dressed and well groomed as usual, soon -appeared and, bending till his hands touched the floor, -saluted.</p> - -<p>“May the King live forever!”</p> - -<p>In obedience to a wave of the King’s hand, the servants -disappeared.</p> - -<p>“See that none stand near the door! Let the guard -move away to the outer room!” commanded the King.</p> - -<p>Prexaspes saw that the orders were obeyed. Then, -resuming his deferential attitude before his royal master, -with bowed head, eyes to the floor, and hands crossed -before him, he awaited the royal pleasure. The King, -having eaten in silence some minutes, pushed away the -remainder of the food.</p> - -<p>“Prexaspes,” he said truculently, “I know you! I -know you are faithful to me because you hope to win -power and not because you love me. So be it! Royal -place you cannot have owing to the accident of birth, but -royal power you may win if you will. Are you ready -to carry out all my wishes or must I seek another?”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_103">[103]</span>He paused. Prexaspes raised his eyes and noted his -master’s expression.</p> - -<p>“Royal master,” he said quietly, “you read men with -the eye of God! It is true I love power and riches and I -know that both may be given me by you and none other. -I am your slave to command.”</p> - -<p>“Well said! I, who am descended from Jemshid -and Kaiomurs, from Achæmenius and Cyrus, am able -to make you great. Just as there may be one God in -heaven, so I am the one God on earth. There is but one -family fitted to rule the earth and that is mine. Is it not -so?”</p> - -<p>“It is so.”</p> - -<p>“Since it is so, is not the will of the Great King of the -Persians and Medes and of the whole world above the -laws of this empire?”</p> - -<p>“The King’s word is law.”</p> - -<p>“If, then, the Great King command you to do an act, -that act, even if it be the taking of life contrary to Persian -law, becomes lawful. Is it not so?”</p> - -<p>For an instant Prexaspes clasped his fingers together -nervously.</p> - -<p>“It might be lawful, O King,” he answered slowly. -“But though your power is great, there are in this land -of Persia great nobles who claim great rights and -powers, and who would maintain that Persian law must -not be broken even by the Great King. I know the -great wisdom and the courage of the King; but if I may -be permitted to speak, I would give the advice of one -who has studied these matters deeply.”</p> - -<p>“I know!” exclaimed the King, impatiently. “I saw -the dour faces of the nobles and the hostility of the people. -My father unreasonably inflicted punishments upon -me and my friends, and knowledge thereof has soured<span class="pagenum" id="Page_104">[104]</span> -the minds of all toward me. That cursed Bardya, who -supplanted me in my father’s love, yet lives! I would -sooner trust Darius Hystaspis than those nobles; and he -loves me not!”</p> - -<p>“It is true the Prince of Iran loves you not. But he -is loyal. My only fear is that if Bardya should—should -be slain by your order, the nobles would attack even you, -and by their vast power among the Persian people they -might overthrow you and place the King of Iran on the -throne.”</p> - -<p>The King arose from the table and paced back and -forth, grinding his teeth in wrath. He realized the -truth of Prexaspes’ words.</p> - -<p>“There can be but one King on earth!” he exclaimed. -“That King must be Cambyses. Bardya must die! As -for Darius Hystaspis, I would order him to death, did I -not believe his father would head a revolt in Iran such -as I care not to meet. But I hate him! What then do -you advise?”</p> - -<p>“As to Bardya, I advise that he be put away secretly, -if he must die. Let it be reported that he has returned -to Bactra or that the King has given him a secluded residence -in Medea, where he chose to retire for meditation. -A stout person might—”</p> - -<p>“No!” roared the King. “I have said he shall die! -But let it be secretly done. Do it yourself and I will -make you chief counselor of state forever, second only -to myself!”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes drew in his breath sharply.</p> - -<p>“The King hath spoken!” he answered slowly. “I -myself will slay the young man. Let the King’s word -stand and not be withdrawn.”</p> - -<p>“It shall stand!” the King assured him, taking a seal -ring from his finger. “Take this in token of the King’s -word.”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_105">[105]</span>Prexaspes bowed low and took the glittering band.</p> - -<p>“Now as to this Prince of Iran and his seditious -Guard, what of them?” demanded the King.</p> - -<p>Prexaspes hesitated a moment before he answered. -“The Prince may be dealt with in two ways. Possibly -the King may not have heard that he has dared to raise -his eyes to Athura, the King’s most beautiful sister; and -it is reported that she regards him with great favor. -And your father promised her to him. Now it might be -that if she be given him in marriage at once, it would -bind him more firmly to support your rule, and—”</p> - -<p>“Never!” cried the King, smiting his hands together. -“Let them marry? Why, that would indeed be showing -him favor! That would be placing him on the -throne! For I have no children; and if Bardya die, who -remains? Athura would be queen, and he would be -King. Never! I hate him as bitterly as I do Bardya. -I hate Athura, the haughty favorite of my father, ever -preaching good deeds and well-doing to me!”</p> - -<p>“Then I advise that he be given a command in a distant -province. It is rumored that the Lydians are restless -and that the tribes on the northern borders thereof -are making forays. Send him and the old Guard -thither. Mayhap a dart shall find him. At least he will -be far from these Persians. His oath will keep him -faithful. Let a decree be made praising him for faithful -service and elevating him to the honor of a satrapy where -war will keep him busy.”</p> - -<p>The King laughed, a cruel, mirthless laugh, as he -assented. “The advice is good! So be it. Bardya -shall disappear to meditate—beyond the stars! Darius -and Athura shall love each other, verily, but separated -by two hundred parasangs! See to it! Prepare -proper decrees. And Prexaspes—it is in my mind to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_106">[106]</span> -occupy these warlike peoples in a war of conquest, even -as did my father. We will prove that we too know how -to conquer! There is Egypt still independent and very -rich and powerful. We must have tribute to live in -state as becomes the ruler of the world. Amasis claims -to be equal to Cambyses—he shall bite the dust! -After him, the Hellenes shall feel my power beyond the -sea. Go, Prexaspes! It shall be yours to estimate the -necessary revenues and to prepare the means to feed an -army of five hundred thousand men who will march with -me to Egypt. But, first, see to it that no brother remains -behind to rouse up rebellion!”</p> - -<p>“It shall be as you order. The King is very wise. -War with Egypt will occupy the minds of the Persian -nobles and will enable us to levy taxes on all the nations -for the King’s treasury.”</p> - -<p>“Be not in too great haste with this war,” continued -Cambyses. “There is much to do; and life is very enjoyable -in fall at Susa, in winter at Babylon, and in -spring at Hamadan.”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes bowed low and withdrew.</p> - -<p>Later that day, the King sat in state on the throne in -the great central hall of the palace and received the -nobles of Persia and Medea and the officers of his court. -Prexaspes stood at his right hand. Embassies from distant -realms, visitors from foreign lands, and deputations -from divers cities came to wait upon the Great -King before returning to their various places. All petitioners, -in accordance with the new etiquette, prostrated -themselves before the King and so remained until bidden -to arise. But the nobles of Iran, though they bowed -low before him with hands on their breasts, did not bend -the knee or prostrate themselves. The King greeted -them coldly, resolving within himself that he would some<span class="pagenum" id="Page_107">[107]</span> -day humble them till they also should prostrate themselves -at his feet and feel his foot on their necks.</p> - -<p>The Prince of Iran, tall, stately, richly but plainly -appareled, came also. He was cordial in his greeting of -the King, as became a blood-relative, but beneath the -folds of his Medean cloak a light chain armor guarded -his body from dagger-thrusts, even as his cordial manner -concealed the distrust he felt towards Cambyses. -To him Prexaspes made low obeisance. The nobles of -Persia also bowed low before him with profound respect. -The King became very gracious and smiled upon -him as he approached. He arose from his throne and -gave the Prince his royal hand.</p> - -<p>“Cousin Darius,” he said, “it pleases me very greatly -to have you here! I have disturbing news from the -satrapy of our old friend Crœsus. It is said that discontent -and revolt arise there and that bands of Scythians -trouble its northern borders. I have been considering -deeply what reward would be sufficient for one who -brought the body of the Great King, my father, to its -tomb. I have determined to appoint you satrap of all -our empire beyond the Euphrates. In order that you -may be well supported, I have prepared a decree that -you may take with you the old Imperial Guard of my -father to become the nucleus of the army which shall, -under your command, uphold our empire there. I contemplate -no less a conquest than that of Egypt at some -convenient time; and it shall be your duty to levy additional -soldiers among the people of your provinces for -that war. When I march by Damascus and Tyre, you -shall join me there with a well-disciplined army and you -shall have chief command under me.”</p> - -<p>The Prince listened in amazement. Except Babylon, -the western provinces were the richest and most important<span class="pagenum" id="Page_108">[108]</span> -of the conquered provinces in the empire. -Knowing the King’s ancient hatred towards him, he was -at a loss to understand why this great honor was given -him. From the keen, beadlike stare of the King’s dark -eyes he turned inquiringly to Prexaspes, who averted -his face. He was silent a moment, seeking to penetrate -the King’s design. It must be that, as King, Cambyses -was not following the footsteps of Cambyses, the -Prince.</p> - -<p>“The Great King’s commands will be obeyed,” he answered -presently. “I thank you for the honor so little -deserved. But I had somewhat in my heart to ask the -King, should I be permitted to speak.”</p> - -<p>“Say on!” said the King, the expression of his face -denoting apprehension.</p> - -<p>“When your sire, the ever victorious Cyrus, was about -to die, he gave me his consent and promise that I should -marry the Princess Athura if she were willing. This -was a special mark of his favor. I now ask of you, -Great King, that which he promised and which you, as -the head of your father’s family, may grant—the hand -of the King’s sister in marriage.”</p> - -<p>Cambyses was astonished at the boldness of the -Prince. His face instantly flushed with wrath. He was -about to exclaim violently, when he observed the gaze -of Prexaspes turned upon him warningly and remembered -that it was his part to dissemble. He resumed -his seat on the throne. Constraining his anger, he said, -speaking rapidly and in some confusion:</p> - -<p>“This is a matter to which thought must be given. -The time is not right. The matters demanding attention -in your satrapy are urgent. I wish you to make ready -and depart within ten days. I must have a Prince of -the Empire in that part of my dominions. Your subjects<span class="pagenum" id="Page_109">[109]</span> -are a warlike people who need a firm hand. As to -my sister, I will talk with her. It would not be meet -that the marriage take place before you go or until the -days of mourning for her father elapse. The urgency -of the case will not admit at this time of any delay, lest -those Lydians and Scythians rise in open rebellion. I -see no obstacle in the way of such marriage; but later -I will consider it. Some months’ active campaigning -may be your lot when no thoughts could be given to marriage. -Prepare to march without delay and to put down -the King’s enemies with a strong hand. If the hand of -my sister in marriage be a prize to be sought after by -you, faithful service to my interests may be thus rewarded. -Here is my decree appointing you to your -office. Rest assured that if my sister wills to be your -wife, she shall be given by me to no other man.”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes drew from his belt a roll of papyrus and -presented it to the King, who handed it to the Prince. -The latter took it, bowed low, and, turning on his heel, -departed without further word. After he had disappeared -the King turned to Prexaspes.</p> - -<p>“What think you?” he asked. “Does it please him? -And what will he do?”</p> - -<p>“It pleases him not, but he will obey.”</p> - -<p>The Prince of Iran passed out of the King’s presence -deeply troubled. Was the King seeking to honor him -and beginning to reign in a truly kinglike manner? Or -was he seeking to be rid of him and his favorite troops? -Mounting a horse at the gate of the palace park, where -his faithful groom, Orobates, awaited him, he rode -directly to the old palace where Bardya and his sisters -were residing. There he dismounted and was quickly -ushered into the presence of Princess Athura. He -found her sitting upon a divan in the inner court, playing<span class="pagenum" id="Page_110">[110]</span> -on a harp and softly singing to its accompaniment. -Several young women companions had left the room -when the servants announced the coming of the Prince.</p> - -<p>“Greeting and welcome!” she said smilingly, as the -young man bowed low before her. She put aside the -harp and arose. “Be seated, illustrious Prince, at my -right hand!” He kissed the hands extended to him, -and both sat down on the divan.</p> - -<p>At once noting the serious expression of his countenance, -the Princess asked, “What so serious as to cause -frowns and wrinkles?”</p> - -<p>“I have stood before the King as I said I would and -asked that he consent to our marriage,” he answered. -“Instead of consenting, he does me the honor to appoint -me governor of Lydia and command me to depart forthwith, -saying there is urgent need and that I must take -with me the Guard.”</p> - -<p>“What? Another war? And must you go?”</p> - -<p>“It is the King’s command! It is not an honor that -he is giving me. It is his desire to place me among those -who know me not! Foolish King! He will find none -less likely to rebel than I. It is not in his mind to consent -to our marriage. He made no promise. He said -he would think of it and speak with you.”</p> - -<p>“But he shall consent!” exclaimed Athura, warmly. -“If not, then will I go with you and marry you without -his consent. He shall never control me or send me -where I do not choose to go!”</p> - -<p>“My soul rejoices to hear you say this!” said the -Prince, drawing her close to him with encircling arm. -“But we must have patience. He is King. He is the -head of your family. Should we marry without his consent, -he might deem it such insult to his majesty as to -lead him to immediate violence. I fear that I may some<span class="pagenum" id="Page_111">[111]</span> -day be compelled to forget my sacred oath to his father. -Let us exercise patience, light of mine eyes, hope of my -soul!”</p> - -<p>Her regal head rested on his strong shoulder. She -touched lightly with her fingers the dark locks of hair -that graced his brow. Presently, as she remained silent, -he continued:</p> - -<p>“He may consent that you come to me. What happiness -would be mine! But you—it would mean a -foreign land, and possibly dwelling in the midst of -war.”</p> - -<p>“Am I not my father’s daughter? Am I afraid of -war? It would be joy to go with you, to see new lands, -new peoples, to be a queen where you would be virtually -king, to ride a horse in battle! I will wait for you -to come or to send for me. No other man, be he King -or noble, shall I ever marry. If not you, none other!”</p> - -<p>“Nor shall I have any other queen than you, beloved -of my soul! Let us not despair. I will speak to the -Persian nobles if he does not presently consent. Their -influence and my father’s may force his consent. If danger -threaten you, fly to my mother. She will protect you -even against Cambyses.”</p> - -<p>Further converse was interrupted by the sound of footsteps -approaching from the outer hallway and the immediate -appearance of Prince Bardya at the door. He -had evidently just come from a ride, as his clothes and -whip indicated. His handsome, flushed countenance indicated -rapid riding through the wind. He smiled, as his -sister and the Prince arose in embarrassed silence.</p> - -<p>“Pardon my intrusion, beloved sister and brother!” -he begged. “I have had a wonderful gallop over the -hills towards Lake Baktigan, and some rough climbing. -Have you seen the other King this day?”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_112">[112]</span>The Prince of Iran briefly related his visit to the King -and its result. Bardya nervously slapped the riding whip -against his boots and a frown gathered on his brow as he -listened.</p> - -<p>“His object is plain!” he exclaimed, as the Prince -ceased speaking. “He sends you to a distant place that -you may not be near me, a very shrewd trick! He will -never allow you to marry Athura because he hates you -both. But let us defy him! My sister shall go with me. -Then you may come, Prince, and marry her! We shall -defy him. We shall acknowledge him as overlord, according -to my father’s will; but not a foot shall he set -on our lands—neither he nor any servants of his!”</p> - -<p>The Prince of Iran was disturbed at Bardya’s words. -It was evident that the latter intended to declare his independence -as soon as possible and that war would ensue. -What would be his own duty then? His oath would align -him with Cambyses; his heart would drive him to Bardya.</p> - -<p>“Great Prince,” he answered, “I know you love me as -a friend and so I make bold to speak a warning. Do not -utter such thoughts aloud any more. Ears may hear and -tongues may carry to the King’s ears. Then he would -surely have you arrested and slain. I counsel prudence -and extreme watchfulness. Return as soon as possible -to Bactra. I long to go with you. But I must obey his -decree or be placed in the position of rebelling. I go as -ordered. After the war is finished (if I find it necessary -to make war), I will demand Athura. If he refuse consent, -I will leave his service and enter yours, but never as -against him. But I do not think he will dare deny my -suit. Am I not an Achæmenian, and is there any of -higher birth?”</p> - -<p>“I will heed your advice,” replied Bardya. “You<span class="pagenum" id="Page_113">[113]</span> -were ever wise and far-seeing. I will be silent and -watchful. The guards you gave me ride with me always. -One sleeps at my bedroom door, and the others guard -the palace doors and grounds. But if you march hence -in ten days, it behooves me to seek others.”</p> - -<p>“I will furnish them from the faithful retainers on -my father’s estate. But I advise immediate return to -Bactra, even if it must be by flight in the night. I am -greatly troubled for your safety.”</p> - -<p>Bardya laughed. “You are needlessly alarmed,” he -asserted. “But on the morrow I will announce to the -King my purpose of returning forthwith.”</p> - -<p>At this moment there came a knock at the door and a -servant appeared. “A messenger stands at the door,” he -announced.</p> - -<p>“Admit him!” commanded Bardya.</p> - -<p>A man in the King’s livery entered, and bowing almost -to the floor before royalty, presented a folded bit of papyrus -to Bardya. The latter took it, unfolded it, and -read. He then ordered the messenger to retire, and after -he had disappeared he read aloud:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“‘Cambyses, the King of Kings, King of the World, to -his Brother, Bardya, and to his Sisters, Athura and Artistone, -greeting:</p> - -<p>“‘Know that I propose to remain here two weeks -longer and will then return to Hamadan. It is my will -that you make ready to accompany me to that city in -order that my court may be graced by your presence and -that the people may know that we are of good-will towards -you. Later my brother may depart thence to -his provinces. Farewell.</p> - -<p class="right">“‘<span class="smcap">Cambyses.</span>’”</p> -</div> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_114">[114]</span>“My brother is beginning to rule us very soon!” exclaimed -Athura, indignantly.</p> - -<p>“He shall not order me!” exclaimed Bardya, fiercely.</p> - -<p>“He is King!” warned the Prince of Iran. “Hamadan -is many parasangs nearer Bactra than this city. It is -also nearer Lydia. I counsel obedience. It will be -easier to escape from Hamadan than from Pasargadæ, -if escape you must; and a week’s journey will then bring -you into your own realm. Besides, it may be, the King -is earnestly desirous of showing good-will.”</p> - -<p>“Good-will!” rejoined Bardya. “The King speaks -of my ‘provinces,’ as if I were a mere satrap! It seems -to me that I should be first consulted in such matters. -It is in my mind to return to him a message that I choose -to remain here for a time and then to return direct to -Bactra.”</p> - -<p>Bardya strode back and forth across the room wrathfully. -He threw the King’s message on the floor and -trampled upon it. The Prince of Iran watched him in -gloomy silence. Athura went to her brother and placing -her hand on his shoulders made him halt and look down -into her clear, steady eyes. More than once she had -calmed the anger of her impetuous younger brother -thus.</p> - -<p>“Brother, listen to me!” she said imploringly. -“Listen to the Prince of Iran, if not to me! We are -older than you, and you have never found us unfaithful -to your interests. Cambyses is King of Kings, King of -the World, by right of birth and by your father’s last -decree. He speaks fairly to you. It is right that we -visit him at his court in Hamadan and render him the -honor due to him. You are here in his power. You -should never have come hither at all. Wisdom dictates -that you go to Hamadan, in all brotherly kindness. Then<span class="pagenum" id="Page_115">[115]</span> -should he show an evil disposition, it will be much easier -to escape to Bactra. At all events, brother, be not first -to bring on war. Only in a just cause will the Aryans -follow you.”</p> - -<p>Bardya was impressed. He kissed her forehead. “I -will do as you advise,” he replied. “I am crippled by -that oath our father exacted of the King of Iran and of -our Prince here. Without their aid, it would be wild, -foolish, and impossible to begin war. I feel that should -I begin the war, even they would oppose me with the -armies of Iran. I am no better than a caged tiger.”</p> - -<p>The Prince of Iran looked upon his young friend -sorrowfully. “My father and I have sworn!” he said. -“How can our words return to us? We are bound to -support Cambyses as King of Kings. No less are we -bound to aid you if oppressed by him. We will not -fail you. Should he seek to detain you, we shall demand -your release, even at the head of an army. What can -you ask more? That we be oath-breakers?”</p> - -<p>“No, I ask it not! I will be guided by your advice.”</p> - -<p>Having thus decided, the three composed a message -from Bardya to the King, notifying him that it would -please Bardya to visit Hamadan on his way to Bactra and -be his guest for some days. The Prince of Iran then -took his departure and went to the camp of the Imperial -Guard. After detailing a strong company to guard the -palace wherein slept his beloved, he called a council of -all his chief captains and read to them the King’s decree -directing him and the Guard to march into Western -Asia. The captains were delighted. The common soldiers, -when they heard the news next day, broke forth -in a pandemonium of jubilation. To march into the -rich country of rich old Crœsus with their beloved Prince, -to gain renown and wealth, though by hard knocks,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_116">[116]</span> -under such a leader—what more could a stout warrior -ask? So they all rejoiced and one and all agreed that -King Cambyses was a wise King. But their Prince and -Commander was silent and sorrowful.</p> - -<p>Cambyses announced, two days later, that it pleased -him to accept the invitation of the Prince of Iran to -hunt royal game on his estates in the jungles surrounding -Lake Baktigan. This lake is a brackish body of -water lying in the bottom of a long, narrow valley between -low mountains, a day’s journey south of Persepolis. -It is shallow in summer and fall, but in spring, after the -winter rains, fed by the floods of the Araxes and several -mountain torrents, it rises to respectable dimensions, -and is then about sixty miles long by five wide. Reeds, -grass, shrubs, and stunted trees cover its shores. On -the hills near is some heavy timber. Little known to the -modern traveler, yet, in the ancient days, it was a resort -of royal hunters who dared to seek the lion and the tiger -in their lairs. It was a part of the estates of the King -of Iran. The Prince, as was the custom, had invited -the King of Kings to make free use of all his father’s -property. But he was surprised when Cambyses indicated -that he would hunt. Prexaspes had advised his -royal master to accept because it would please the Persian -nobility. Cambyses also desired to show himself -a mighty hunter, as had all his ancestry, and this influenced -him to dissemble his true feeling towards the -Prince and to accept his invitation. Prince Bardya and -the great lords of Persia were invited to attend. It -fell upon the Prince of Iran as host to provide transportation, -victuals, equipage, and beaters; and right -royally did he provide.</p> - -<p>It was an imposing expedition that marched down the -swift Araxes to the jungles of Lake Baktigan. First,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_117">[117]</span> -on a big horse, rode a magnificently attired master of -the hunt, glittering in gold and silver and gorgeous -in crimson uniform. Then followed several hundred -skilled hunters, wardens of the estate whose duty it -was to furnish the table of King Hystaspis with game -and to guard his preserves against common robbers and -poachers. They were arrayed in distinctive uniform -and were mounted on wiry animals used to hill-climbing -and hunting. With them was a pack of hounds. Then -rode King Cambyses, on a beautiful white stallion, and -looking right royal in his close-fitting tunic, his leather -riding-breeches, red shoes, and round felt cap in which -were stuck several black eagle feathers. A stout armor-bearer -rode next with the King’s short sword, a buckler, -a stout bow, and a quiver full of arrows. Another -servant carried javelins and a heavy spear. At the -King’s left and half a horse behind rode Prexaspes -similarly arrayed. Behind them rode the Prince of -Iran, Prince Bardya, and a hundred or more notables. -Many pack-animals and servants followed with the impedimenta.</p> - -<p>They camped in a dense forest at the northern end -of the lake, where the Araxes poured in its flood of fresh -water. Next day the hunt began. The chief huntsman -built a low platform in the branches of a live-oak -which stood at the crossing of several jungle paths -about a mile below the camp. The King and his armor-bearers -took station on this, while the nobles and retainers -formed in line at some distance to the rear in -order to turn the game should it pass him. Cambyses -was a great archer. It was his daily custom to practice -shooting with the heavy Persian bow. He boasted that -no man in Iran could excel him. None ever did excel -in his presence, it being convenient to miss and stand<span class="pagenum" id="Page_118">[118]</span> -lower in the scores than his Royal Highness. It is -related that the King was accustomed to shoot apples -from the heads or hands of boys, an example possibly -followed by William Tell of later fame. The King -later attempted this feat with the son of Prexaspes and -slew the son.</p> - -<p>The huntsmen went to a point several miles down the -lake, and, having formed a long line with one end resting -on the shore and the other far out on the hills, marched -with shouts, horn-blowing, and drum-beating northward -and drove the savage denizens of the wilderness towards -the King. The latter acquitted himself very well. Deer -and antelope fell before his arrows. Jackals, snapping -at the shafts which pierced their vitals, tumbled about and -died. The King roared with savage laughter as the -stricken animals leaped to their death. A wild boar was -smitten, but, gnashing his teeth in rage and pain, he -turned upon the beaters desperately and gashed one -severely with his tusks. Animals which escaped the -King ran the gantlet of weapons in the hands of the -nobles. The slaughter was great. Two lions were -aroused, but they broke through the line of beaters and -escaped. That night all feasted on the King’s meat and -praised his skill.</p> - -<p>On the next day Cambyses decided to hunt on foot, -following the hunters with hounds through the jungle -paths. His nobles followed to witness his feats of arms. -Hunters and beaters formed a long semicircular line -with the wings thrust forward, one along the margin of -the lake, and the other along a ridge running parallel -thereto. The King was at the middle of the line with -the chief hunter. The Prince of Iran, Prince Bardya, -and several of the nobles followed closely after him.</p> - -<p>Several smaller animals soon fell before the King’s<span class="pagenum" id="Page_119">[119]</span> -archery, but he fretted because no lion or tiger appeared. -He ordered the hounds unloosed. They sprang away -into the jungle, and almost immediately terrific roars announced -the presence of lions. A female and a young -lion appeared, dashing towards the hills, the mother -turning now and again to leap at the snarling pack baying -at her heels. The King loosed an arrow at her, but -it fell short. He was about to pursue, when a more -thunderous roar close by warned him of the proximity -of another royal beast. An instant later, a black-maned -male lion appeared in an open space twenty paces distant, -lashing his tail and emitting breathy coughs of rage. -The animal paused but an instant, crouching low, then -leaped towards the King with gigantic bounds. The -King drew an arrow to its head and launched it. It -smote the lion in the shoulder, but missed a vital point. -Cries of terror arose from the attendants, and the armor-bearer -of the King sought to interpose his buckler between -the beast and his master. But master and man -went down in a heap under the impact of the lion’s -heavy body. Then the Persian nobles gallantly hastened -to the rescue. The Prince of Iran dashed forward with -a heavy spear and thrust the sharp blade into the red -mouth of the lion as it sprang to meet him. It reared -up on hind legs, battling with the heavy spear. Prince -Bardya then shot an arrow into the beast’s side with -such force that the barb passed through its body. Its -heart was transfixed; the great beast gasped, fell over, -and died.</p> - -<p>Cambyses was not severely injured, but was much -chagrined. He had missed a fair shot, been ignobly -thrown down, and saved by those he hated. He gave -short thanks to his saviors and berated his armor-bearer -for not interposing more effectually. He hunted no<span class="pagenum" id="Page_120">[120]</span> -more after that on foot in the jungle, but he succeeded -in slaying two lions from the safety of a platform -erected in a tree.</p> - -<p>The hunt thus having proved a success, the King returned -to Pasargadæ.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_121">[121]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER IX<br /> - - -<small>THE DEEPER THINGS</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">THE Prince of Iran, about to depart on the King’s -business, knelt before his mother to receive her -final blessing. The stately dame allowed no tear to dim -her eye and no tremor to weaken her voice during this -ceremony.</p> - -<p>“Go, my son, with my love and faith in you,” she -said. “But remember your royal birth. Should your -sire die, you will be head of the royal family in Iran; -and by reason of your descent from an elder brother, -you will be entitled to overlord even Cambyses. Your -father has been content to be second to Cyrus, but I -shall yet behold you crowned King of Kings!”</p> - -<p>“Not while Bardya and his brother, the Great King, -live, mother!” replied the Prince, arising from his knee. -“But I shall remember your words.”</p> - -<p>She bowed low before him, as to a superior. “Son, -I salute you, King that is to be!” she said, smiling.</p> - -<p>Troubled in spirit, he kissed her cheek and turned -away.</p> - -<p>The mother watched her son until he disappeared -among the trees of the park. Then, throwing a veil -over her head and face, she went to the seclusion of her -bedchamber, there to weep the bitter tears of grief she -would not let the world see. The Prince hastened to -the stone bridge where Bardya and Athura, who had -preceded him, were waiting to utter their farewells.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_122">[122]</span>Bardya kissed his friend’s cheeks, embraced him tenderly, -then mounted a horse and rode away to the city. -Athura and the Prince lingered on the bridge awhile, -loath to part. The perfume of flowers filled the air, -as the sun kissed away the dewdrops from their petals. -The voices of birds and the ripple of water formed an -orchestra attuned to the songs of love.</p> - -<p>“When I am permitted to return to this paradise, I -will build there, by the side of my father’s palace, another -twice as large and adorned with greater splendor,” he -said, as they were about to separate. “There shall you -dwell as becomes the Queen of the Aryans and the -ruler of my soul.”</p> - -<p>“May your mother’s prophecy come true, beloved!” -she replied. “I shall count the days till your return, -or until I go to you. Send for me quickly and I will -come. That brother of mine, who calls himself King of -Kings, shall not prevent me. Listen! Should I send to -you, asking aid, will you come, even though in disobedience -to his orders?”</p> - -<p>“Yes! Did not Cyrus at the same time he exacted -my oath also promise you to me? But Cambyses will -not dare refuse you or insult me by long refusing his -consent to our marriage.”</p> - -<p>“His hatred toward us may overrule his reason.”</p> - -<p>“Then he shall listen to force! I will send a letter -to him as soon as my government is placed in order, demanding -that he send you to me. He will then have no -excuse.”</p> - -<p>“Send quickly then, for I fear trouble!” Tears filled -her dark eyes as she spoke.</p> - -<p>“Should he trouble you, go to my father!” he said -reassuringly. “He will call in the seven great nobles -of Persia to your aid. Even Cambyses will fear them.”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_123">[123]</span>What else was said need not be recorded. Love, in -these great ones of earth, produced the same sighs, the -same halting words, the repetition of promises, assurances, -and pledges, the same beaming eyes and fluttering -hearts, as it ever has in all who have loved, be they -high or low, known or unknown, sung or unsung. They -parted, he to join the waiting Imperial Guard, now to -be known as the Prince of Iran’s Guard, and she to -return to his mother.</p> - -<p>Having marched rapidly to Susa, the Prince and his -army encamped in a plain near that city. The satrap -of Susa was ordered to procure supplies and a caravan -for his long westward march. The camp lay on the south -bank of the swift Choaspes, in a park set apart for the -King’s use. Here were many palms and plane trees. -The Prince’s tent was erected beneath the spreading -branches of trees on the margin of the river, where in -soldierly simplicity he received the visit of the satrap.</p> - -<p>On the evening of the second day after his arrival at -this camp, the Prince, as was his custom, went out for -a walk. The dark peaks of the Zagros range in the -east lay bathed in the last soft rays of the sun. Shadows -were falling in the glades and upon the river. With -bent head and hands clasped behind him, he took little -note of his surroundings, until at the end of half an -hour he was met by a man, who seemed also absorbed -in meditation. This man was tall and graceful. His -body was clad in a long cloak, a plain but fine Babylonish -garment, and on his head he wore a round, black -Persian cap. His feet were shod with sandals. A full, -dark beard, streaked with gray, adorned his face. His -eagle-like countenance was strong and placid. Large -dark eyes glowed with intelligence from beneath his -heavy brows.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_124">[124]</span>The Prince whose eyes were bent on the earth, was -startled from his reverie by a deep, musical voice:</p> - -<p>“Hail, Prince of Iran!”</p> - -<p>Involuntarily he grasped the hilt of a dagger in his -belt and gazed doubtfully a moment upon the speaker. -Then with a glad cry, he hastened forward and bending -low, exclaimed: “Hail, Belteshazzer, prophet of God! -I did not expect to meet you here! I rejoice exceedingly! -I pray your blessing!”</p> - -<p>“May the Lord of all the earth bless you, my son!” -said Belteshazzer, solemnly, laying his hand upon the -Prince’s bowed head. “It is a great pleasure to behold -you again after so many months. Tell me how you -come here. Is that your army yonder? I have been -away several days in the mountains whither I go to -study, and I am now returning to the city.”</p> - -<p>The Prince stood before the prophet reverently, as -one stands before a loved teacher.</p> - -<p>“My guard is encamped yonder,” he answered, indicating -his camp. “We march upon the Great King’s -business to the lands beyond the Euphrates, where, it -is said, I shall find the people in rebellion. The King -has seen fit to honor me with the government of the -western provinces.”</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer smiled. Knowing well the political -affairs of the empire from his long experience as adviser -to the late King and as governor of several provinces, -also knowing Cambyses and his dislike for the Prince, -he perceived the pretext which the King had used to -send the Prince far away from Iran.</p> - -<p>“I had not heard of any serious disturbances in those -provinces,” he said. “It is true that some wild, turbulent -bands infest the outlying mountains on the northeast; -but the provinces have been happy under the rule of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_125">[125]</span> -Cyrus and have not suffered at the hands of Cambyses. -Perhaps the Great King deems it wise to scatter the -veterans of Cyrus to distant provinces!”</p> - -<p>“That may be,” assented the Prince. “But you, -Teacher, why here? The governor of Medea should -not be in Elam.”</p> - -<p>“I am no longer governor of Medea. The Great -King has deprived me of that office. I am no longer -an adviser to the King. I am going to Babylon to -resume my duties in the college of wise men, to spend -my time in the study of ancient records and to observe -the changing heavens, until such time as the God of -heaven and earth shall order otherwise.”</p> - -<p>“Come with me!” exclaimed the Prince, impulsively. -“I shall profit by your knowledge and experience. You -shall have the chief place in my satrapy.”</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer shook his head.</p> - -<p>“No, it would not be best. The Great King is very -jealous. He is scattering the men who surrounded -Cyrus and is building up a circle of his own. His -command was laid on me to proceed to Babylon, there -to reside with the college of priests. But fear not, -Prince! We shall come again in due time.”</p> - -<p>“Is this a prophecy?” inquired the Prince, his countenance -alight with eagerness. “Ah, Belteshazzer! how -I have longed to obtain that power you have,—the -power to look into the future, to listen to the voice of -Shraosha and to tell that which will be! Come with me -to my tent and take refreshments. You shall stay with -me at least until I march on to my provinces. I will -consult God through you. My heart is very heavy. -Upon my soul is an oath that galls me; and I fear for -my friends and for the Aryan people under this King. -After you are refreshed, it may be you will consult the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_126">[126]</span> -messengers of God and tell me the right course of -action.”</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer looked upon the young man with sympathy. -Gifted beyond all living men with the power -to read souls in their nakedness, he saw here a strong, -upright spirit of good intent, in whom truth held sway, -whose mind was large enough to grapple with and solve -the problems of earth, a leader among men; and he -loved the youth. He did not answer immediately, but -looked into the eyes of the Prince earnestly as if reading -his thoughts. The Prince could not drop his gaze. Belteshazzer -presently looked away to the west, where the -last glow of the sunset still reddened the sky, and he -sighed deeply. Then his eyes swept slowly around the -horizon, resting an instant on the towers of the distant -city and then upon the tents of the army. The river’s -low murmur came up from the darkening vale mingled -with whisper of leaves moved by the breeze.</p> - -<p>“I know, my son,” he said after a moment’s silence, -“that you have given an oath which may not be broken. -I read the thoughts that recur, tempting you to break it. -I read your heart and the love in it for the sister of the -King, and the brotherly love you hold towards the -brother of the King. I know that in the King’s mind -is a fierce hatred towards you and a foul intent to make -away with his brother; and that he is even now plotting -against him. I know that dark and bloody days are -impending; but the God of Spirits has guards around -you, and as long as you walk after the good intent in -your heart, you will triumph over all dangers and you -will come at length to a higher estate. More than this -I do not know.”</p> - -<p>The Prince bowed his head reverently before the -speaker. In the presence of this man he was humble,—this<span class="pagenum" id="Page_127">[127]</span> -man about whom wondrous stories had been told: -of his great wisdom; of his power over the spirits of -men; of the prophecies he had uttered; of the handwriting -on the wall at the close of Belshazzar’s feast, when -the great Cyrus was entering the inner city of Babylon -by the river-bed and seizing it while the people feasted; -of his immunity from fire and from the wrath of wild -beasts, which, it was said, were his friends, no matter -how savage; and of his steadfastness in the worship of -his God.</p> - -<p>“O Prince of God!” he exclaimed as the prophet -ceased speaking, “I would give all that I have to hold -communion with the unseen powers as you do! I have -read the teachings of the great master, Zoroaster, and -I have listened to the wise men who have studied all that -is to be known; but, when I stand before you and listen -to your words, my soul sinks, and I wonder if I worship -the true God, or whether there are two gods, yours and -mine, or more; or whether Ahura-Mazda is but an idea. -I wish that I might sit again at your feet and learn the -whole truth!”</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer looked upon the young man, with love -and admiration expressed in his large, deep eyes. His -voice when he again spoke, was full of sympathy and -fatherly kindness. “Son, there is not much to learn, -save this: that God, the Supreme Ruler of all, is one -God; that He manifests His power by His Spirit and by -His messengers; that He is known to all peoples, but -under different names and different aspects, and that He -is the Father of all. Men have forgotten Him and have -attributed to Him qualities that He has never possessed. -Some have made Him a monster, have carved Him in -wood and stone, made idols to represent Him and fallen -down before them, forgetting that God is a Spirit, who<span class="pagenum" id="Page_128">[128]</span> -never looks upon idolatry with allowance—forgetting, -because not seeing! But of old, when there was but one -family of men on this earth, God was known to all men. -His spirits and messengers walked and talked with men, -until men by gross and sensual lives made it impossible. -The Ancient of Days gave man a life of immortality; -breathed His own life into the first man, and he became -a living soul; made him free to live as he would, to -choose good and evil. Men, from the first days, ages -ago, lived happily, until selfishness drove them to quarrels, -to murder, and to other sins. Then they separated, -families moving hither and thither over the world, forgetting -each other; some descending into ignorance and -barbarism; others ascending to a higher state of knowledge; -all looking upon nature and clothing nature’s God -in their own vain imaginings. Some kept the knowledge -of God more perfectly than others. The Spirit of God -talks with every man, bringing up to his spirit suggestions -of better life. From time to time great teachers -are sent. So came Moses to us, the sons of Abraham -and Heber. So came Zoroaster to the Aryans. And -a day will come—I have seen it in a vision!—” here -the Prophet’s voice thrilled with awe and his eyes were -cast upward to the heavens,—“I saw in a vision one -night, years ago, before the great Cyrus overthrew Babylon, -One, like the Ancient of Days, sitting on the clouds -of heaven; and there came before him One like unto a -son of man; and to Him did the Ancient of Days give -dominion and glory over all peoples of all the earth and -all people should in all their divers languages serve Him. -His dominion is an everlasting dominion and His kingdom -shall never be destroyed. All the nations of the -earth shall serve Him gladly!”</p> - -<p>He ceased a moment and stood enraptured, contemplating<span class="pagenum" id="Page_129">[129]</span> -the heavens and recalling again the glories of his -vision. The young man looked upon the seer’s countenance -with awe. He endeavored to gather the full meaning -of the spoken words. Whether he spoke, he knew -not, but his mind did form the question, “When shall -this be?”</p> - -<p>The question came to Belteshazzer and he answered: -“I know not when, but He will come in the fullness of -time. He will not reign as kings reign, but only in the -souls of men. He will waken men to everlasting life, -men who have endeavored to do well. He will waken -others to shame of their evil lives and to everlasting contempt. -Then all men shall have full knowledge of God. -None shall fail to know their Redeemer. He will come -when God wills.”</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer ceased and again sighed deeply, and for -a time gazed at the sunset glow in silence, but his eyes -saw not the glories of the sun. With his inward eyes -he was looking again at that mighty vision of which he -had spoken. The Prince broke the silence.</p> - -<p>“You said that a Spirit stands guard over me and that -I shall triumph over dangers. How stands such spirit? -What is he? Why may I not see him? If I could commune -with the unseen presence, perhaps he would guide -my steps that I make no error.”</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer shook his head and replied: “To some -it is given to commune with spirits, but it is only to those -whose lives are spiritual. To me it has been given to -speak with Gabriel, the messenger of God, and with -Michael, the soldier of God and leader of his hosts -against the powers of evil. It may be that God will permit -you to see. Come, let us sit down! I feel even -now the nearness of spiritual influences.”</p> - -<p>They sat down side by side on a flat rock at the margin<span class="pagenum" id="Page_130">[130]</span> -of the river bank. Below them the bank fell away with -gentle slope to the stream. The valley was now full of -shadows. Trees and shrubs were seen as dark spots on -the dull gray of sun-scorched grass. Twilight was -rapidly deepening into darkness. Belteshazzer took the -Prince’s right hand into his left. Raising his right hand -to the heavens, he prayed inaudibly, the movement of his -lips alone indicating his action. The Prince sat motionless, -with wide eyes and bated breath. Awe entered -into his soul and a chill ran over his body, not from -fear but as if a cold current of air from the mountains -had touched him. Suddenly a light cloud of mist seemed -to come up out of the valley and from it emerged the -semblance of a stately warrior, whose countenance, seen -as in a white light, bore a striking resemblance to the -Prince’s father. His stature was above that of ordinary -man. He was clad, it seemed, in brilliant chain-mail. -A sword hung at his belt, a spear was in his hand, a bow -at his back. He stood erect with one foot advanced -and one hand outstretched as if in benediction over the -Prince’s head. Luminous, translucent, quivering with -light, yet very real, was the presence. The Prince involuntarily -raised his hand and bowed his head in salutation. -Belteshazzer sat still, calmly regarding the -vision.</p> - -<p>“You may speak to him freely,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Who are you that comes so gloriously?” demanded -the Prince.</p> - -<p>A strong voice seemed to answer: “I am Achæmenius, -your ancestor, Prince of Iran. I am permitted by -the Supreme Power to march at your side. In you I -see the hope of the Aryans, the most worthy son of my -family. Be of good cheer! A host encamps about you. -Only seek ever after the truth and avoid the lie. Behold!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_131">[131]</span> -error is creeping into the minds and hearts of the -Aryan people. Idolatry and false magic, fostered by -the evil ones, gain headway among them. It is for you -ever to strive for truth and for the knowledge of God, -the one supreme God, known to our race from the -ancient times, known to this Belteshazzer and by him -worshiped. It is your duty to restore our people to -right worship!”</p> - -<p>“But what is to come? What course shall I pursue, -O glorious Spirit?”</p> - -<p>“It is not given me to prophesy. Only the Supreme -One may give the spirit of prophecy. But I know that -you are chosen to be a leader and that many peoples -shall bow down before you as lord. Keep ever your -purpose to be true and truthful, to live uprightly and -justly, and to banish from among our people idolatry -and lying. More am I not permitted to say. Farewell!”</p> - -<p>As suddenly as the presence had appeared, it passed -away, seeming to dissolve in thin air; and only the two -men remained, sitting side by side on the rock, with the -dark vale before them, the breeze whispering about them -and the brilliant stars above. The young man was the -first to speak. He rose and shook himself as one might -who rises from a troubled dream.</p> - -<p>“Was it a vision, O Prince of God?” he demanded, -“or was it a man? Was it a spirit, or did I dream?”</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer answered somewhat reproachfully: -“My son, this was no dream! You have seen a veritable -spirit, one who lived in the flesh and reigned in -Iran centuries ago. Under him marched a great army -from Bactra to Rhages and thence south into Fars, -driving out the ancient peoples and there establishing his -kingdom. I have seen this great Spirit before, when -Cyrus was King.”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_132">[132]</span>The Prince exclaimed fervently: “Then it is no -fable that men who die shall live again! That which I -have heard and doubted, now I know!”</p> - -<p>“Truly you have spoken! Death is but a change, -the taking off of a worn-out garment, this body of -earth. It is the release of the soul, that glorious body -within, from the trammels of mortality.”</p> - -<p>“To be so glorious, it were better to die!”</p> - -<p>“Nay, not till your work is done! The life now -given you is but a training for the future and should -be lived by you in such manner that men will rise up -and call you blessed.”</p> - -<p>They turned towards the camp, and, walking slowly, -continued to converse upon the mysteries of life. They -passed the sentinels and soon came to the Prince’s -pavilion, where the cooks anxiously awaited their -master’s coming to his supper, long since ready. While -they supped, they continued the discussion and, long -after their meal, they sat together as teacher and pupil, -the one pouring forth wisdom from his vast store of -knowledge, the other receiving and storing it in his mind.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_133">[133]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER X<br /> - - -<small>A FAREWELL FEAST</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">CAMBYSES, the King of Kings, King of the World, -made a feast at his palace in Hamadan in honor of -his brother Bardya, who, as the order announcing the -feast declared, was about to return to his future capital -and home in Bactra. All the rulers and notables of -Persia and Medea were commanded to be present on a -certain day to meet the departing Prince and to say -farewell.</p> - -<p>Forty days and more had passed since the funeral of -Cyrus. The King accompanied by his brother and -sisters, had departed with all his retinue from Pasargadæ -and returned to Hamadan. Cambyses had no -love for the Persian capital, but he did love Hamadan. -At the latter city resided his boon companions, and there -the moral laws were less observed and the people cared -little what their rulers did so long as they themselves -were allowed some license.</p> - -<p>Bardya had twice demanded of the King audience -without result, and finally had written to him a note stating -that he would presently return to Bactra with or -without his permission. It was then that the King had -called Prexaspes to him.</p> - -<p>“Prexaspes,” he said, glowering upon him truculently, -“I expressed a wish to you concerning that sprig, Bardya, -when we talked at Pasargadæ. It seems that my wish -is forgotten!”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_134">[134]</span>The King’s countenance was clouded. He held in -his hand a tablet on which was written the last message -from Bardya. He read this aloud to Prexaspes, then -dashed it to the floor with such force that the delicate -plate was shattered in bits.</p> - -<p>Prexaspes was not alarmed. He had seen such -ebullitions of wrath before. “I have not forgotten the -King’s words,” he replied smoothly. “His commands -shall be obeyed. But the Prince is so closely watched -by the men of his body-guard and he so invariably refuses -to accept my invitations to visit places where the—the—accident -could happen without the people knowing -the true cause, that it has been impossible to accomplish -it.”</p> - -<p>“Nothing should be impossible when the King commands!” -bellowed Cambyses. “Look to it sharp! -Here is he demanding leave to return to his kingdom. -His kingdom, indeed! His presence here is a displeasure -to me. Away with you and immediately accomplish this -task, or I will give your body to the vultures!”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes bowed low in affected terror. “If the King -will permit his servant to speak, I have thought of a -plan,” he said.</p> - -<p>Cambyses glared at him a moment, his bloated countenance -flushed with passion and his right hand clutching -nervously at the dagger on his thigh. It was an inner -room of the great palace and they were alone. Prexaspes -watched the madman closely, ready to flee or to -engage him in mortal combat should he attack. Beneath -his own Medean robe lurked a long, keen dagger which -he well knew how to use. But the King was not so -angry as he pretended. Seeing that his servant was -properly impressed, he said more calmly: “A plan? -Well it is that you have a plan! Speak!”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_135">[135]</span>“Permit me to see that no one listens or lurks near,” -suggested Prexaspes, backing towards the door. He -drew the heavy curtains and looked into the hall. He -looked out of the narrow windows into the garden. -Satisfied that no one could hear, he went close to the -King.</p> - -<p>“O King, your gracious leave being given,” he said, -“I suggest that you give a great feast in honor of your -brother and that you publicly consent that he may return -to Bactra. Permit me to arrange for his departure. I -will suggest to him that he is in danger and that he flee -from this city at night. I will pretend to be his friend. -He shall arrive at no other destination than death. -There will ride out towards Rhages next day one who -looks like him so much that they cannot be distinguished -save by friends. In the desert beyond Rhages, this man -will disappear, and it will be announced that your brother -has been carried away by robbers. His friends must be -kept here by your order. Let me have your signet ring, -that I may have my orders obeyed.”</p> - -<p>“Who is the man that resembles Bardya so much?”</p> - -<p>“It is Gaumata, the man whose ears the great Cyrus -caused to be cut off because of his insolence.”</p> - -<p>“Nay, not for any fault of his, Prexaspes, but because -my father hated and despised him. Now I think of him, -I do remember a great likeness between them. Proceed! -Here is my signet. Only see to it that I be rid of this -pestilent fellow!”</p> - -<p>The King turned away, dismissing his chamberlain -with a gesture. Prexaspes at once left the room and -proceeded to his quarters in the palace, where he shut -himself in and occupied himself for some time in writing -three documents—one, an order from the King commanding -Prexaspes to slay Bardya, the King’s brother;<span class="pagenum" id="Page_136">[136]</span> -one, a message to Bardya permitting him to return to -Bactra on a certain day; and, the third, a decree directing -a great feast to be held in honor of his departure. Having -sealed these with the King’s signet, Prexaspes went to -the west wing of the palace, where Bardya and his sisters -had their residence and where the King never went. He -requested the servants to inform the Prince that he bore -a message from the King.</p> - -<p>Bardya was moodily pacing back and forth in the park -adjacent to the palace when the servant found him. He -was going over in his mind the details of a plan he had -formed for escape. By the King’s orders he had not -been allowed to go and come as freely in the city as he -chose. He knew that spies were constantly watching his -movements and that any attempt to escape on his part -would lead to instant arrest. He directed the servant to -bring Prexaspes to him, and presently that worthy appeared -and bowed low before him.</p> - -<p>“Live forever, O Prince!” said Prexaspes. “If I -am permitted to speak, I have a message from the King.”</p> - -<p>Bardya looked upon Prexaspes loftily and disdainfully. -This carefully dressed, combed and curled courtier -of the King pleased him not. This man was the -embodiment of the Mede, the luxury-loving, mixed breed -of Aryan and Semite, whom the Prince despised.</p> - -<p>“Speak!” he said shortly.</p> - -<p>“I have here an order of the Great King directing -that you may return to your dominions one week from -to-day, and a second order that a great feast be made in -your honor and that you be sent forth properly escorted -by one hundred men under my charge.”</p> - -<p>He paused. The Prince’s face lighted with joy and he -struck his hands together as he exclaimed: “Truly this -is good news, Prexaspes! How about my sisters and -companions?”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_137">[137]</span>“It is not ordered that they accompany you.”</p> - -<p>The Prince’s face grew dark. “What?” he demanded -harshly. “Does this King deny my sisters their right to -go where they choose and does he insult me by withholding -the company of my friends?”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes glanced about uneasily and placed a finger -on his lips, shaking his head warningly. He drew nearer -to the Prince, saying in a low voice: “Have a care, -Prince Bardya! The King waits only for some excuse -and for a convenient day, to slay you. I will reveal to -you what I know. Swear to keep silent should you -escape! Give me the royal word of an Achæmenian -that you will not betray me and that when you come to -your kingdom you will remember me as a King should. -Then will I reveal what is planned to compass your -death.”</p> - -<p>Bardya hesitated. He searched the dark countenance -of Prexaspes, striving to penetrate the mask of earnestness -there assumed.</p> - -<p>“You have my word. Speak!” he said after some -hesitation.</p> - -<p>“I am indeed commanded to lead you with the escort -of one hundred men toward Rhages, but it is also ordered -that you be slain before you reach that city. I am not -willing to stain my hands in the royal blood of Iran. -Neither am I willing that my head pay the forfeit of -failing to have the King’s orders obeyed. Therefore, -believe me, I have planned in good faith for your escape. -On the night before the day set for your departure, the -feast will be held. You must attend the feast. At midnight -there will be a great exhibition of magic by the -priests of the Magi. The King will be drunk by that -time and engrossed with watching the performances. -You will then have opportunity to leave the assembly<span class="pagenum" id="Page_138">[138]</span> -room unnoticed by him and to return to your apartments. -I will see that the guards are removed. You will take -what jewels you have and leave your apartments to meet -me at the western gate of the park, where horses will -await us. Wear a rough soldier’s cloak over your armor. -It will be easy for us to pass the guards and leave the -city, as I shall have the pass-words. I will accompany -you beyond the city limits on the northern road. I will -put money in your saddle-bags and you may travel as a -merchant. As soon as you are beyond the city I will -return. Next day, there will ride forth one who much -resembles you and who will dress as you dress,—Gaumata, -the Magian. He will ride beyond Rhages. He -will there disappear, and those who allow him to escape -will feel the wrath of the Great King. Meanwhile you -may travel unnoticed to Bactra. Is it not a good plan?”</p> - -<p>Bardya listened with distrust. He did not answer immediately. -He pondered, not the plan, but the man who -proposed it. As if reading his thoughts, Prexaspes -added: “Why need you distrust me? If I chose to -slay you, could I not come with the King’s order, take -you to the dungeons, and there have you slain? Why -should I make this plan? Surely you do not fear that -I am able, single-handed, to overcome you on the northern -road,—you, than whom no stronger swordsman rides -a Nicæan steed! You will be armed and have a coat of -mail. You may take all precautions. I seek only to do -you a service.”</p> - -<p>His words touched the Prince’s vanity. Of course he -feared no single man, he the celebrated strong-arm Prince -of the world! The desire for liberty was strong in him -and the romance of a night escape appealed to him.</p> - -<p>“Prexaspes, I agree,” he said. “It matters little -whether you speak truly or falsely. It will be better to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_139">[139]</span> -try an escape than to remain here; and, should the King -overtake me with his guards, I can no more than die. -Should I escape by this plan, come to me at Bactra and -I will reward you royally. Or better still, times and -seasons may change and Kings may change; and if -Ahura-Mazda be willing, I may be here again some day -able to give great honors and rewards!”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes smiled beneath his curly beard. His snake-like -eyes flashed. “Let it be settled, then,” he rejoined. -“At the midnight hour, return to your apartments, not -letting any of your friends know your purpose. Meet -me at the western park gate alone, and we will ride forth -alone. Leave word with your servants that you are -tired and are not to be called until the noon hour on the -morrow. Farewell for the present!”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes turned away and disappeared through the -shrubbery. The Prince paced onward till he came to the -western limits of the park and noted the gate of which -Prexaspes had spoken. He also saw that a company of -soldiers had their tents pitched among the trees beyond -the gate and that certain of them as guards paced back -and forth along the wall bounding the park. He turned -on his heel and returned to the palace. The guards -watched him as long as he was in sight and murmured -to each other concerning him, their attitude being sympathetic. -The Prince was a man of soldierly figure and -gracious demeanor. These men would go far to execute -the orders of the King of Kings, but they admired the -Prince and would not willingly have harmed him.</p> - -<p>The Prince walked slowly, his mind revolving the plan -suggested for his escape, his head bent and his eyes cast -down. He did not see his sister, Athura, coming towards -him until he heard her soft voice.</p> - -<p>“Brother, why so downcast? Why so thoughtful and -preoccupied?”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_140">[140]</span>His countenance lighted with pleasure. There existed -between these two a sincere affection. He leaned much -upon this sister, whose mind, like that of her great -father, was acute and whose judgment was sound.</p> - -<p>“How beautiful is my sister!” he said, quoting one of -the poets—“Fairer than all the women of earth, more -to be beloved than wealth! Her breath is as fragrant -as the breath of the rose; her eyes are deeper than the -dark vault of heavens at night; her heart is as pure as -the white snow on Demavend!”</p> - -<p>“Wait till you behold some maiden who will find -favor in your sight! Then your sister will be remembered -only as your very good friend and your songs of -praise will be another’s,” she said. “Did I not see that -man, Prexaspes, with you a moment ago?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, Princess. I have something to tell you. Let -us go yonder to that seat beneath the oak tree. It is -apart from all others, so that no one may overhear.”</p> - -<p>They went to a rustic seat beneath the spreading -branches of a great oak and sat down side by side, and -he related all that Prexaspes had said.</p> - -<p>“What do you advise?” he asked.</p> - -<p>Athura listened closely, her countenance expressing -distrust, surprise, and incredulity. She took from the -wide belt, that gathered her beautiful robe loosely about -her waist, a small roll of papyrus.</p> - -<p>“Here is a letter from my Prince which has somewhat -to say of this danger you are in,” she said. “I advise -that you distrust Prexaspes.”</p> - -<p>Bardya looked over her shoulder as she unfolded the -paper. “‘<i>Fairest and best of all maidens, Princess of -my soul</i>,’” he read aloud laughingly.</p> - -<p>Athura quickly turned the first portion of the letter -under, saying, “You would joke if death were about to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_141">[141]</span> -seize you! You shall not read the sweet things he has -written. You know not the meaning of them, even if -you did believe yourself in love with the daughter of -Orobates.”</p> - -<p>Bardya in pretended anger placed his hand over her -mouth. “Let not that be mentioned!” he exclaimed, -with simulated sternness. “I was sixteen and she was -very fair. Though she was the daughter of a groom, -even yet I sigh for her.”</p> - -<p>Having found that part of the letter which she desired -to read, Athura said: “Listen to what my Prince -says. This was written thirty days ago and was sent to -his mother’s house, where he supposed I would be and -where I should have been but for a bear of a brother -who is King. Listen!</p> - -<p>“‘I have been much troubled concerning the words -of that great teacher, your father’s former counselor, -Belteshazzer, the Hebrew. He is a prophet, acquainted -with all wisdom, speaking face to face with the messengers -of God. He showed me a vision on the day we -halted near Susa. He had been in the wilderness near -by and was returning to the city, when I met him on the -bank of the Choaspes. He showed me a vision of -Achæmenius, the common ancestor of our royal family, -yours and mine. A glorious vision! Belteshazzer can -read all minds and knows what is in the hearts of men; -and he said that the King meditated harm to Prince -Bardya. Therefore, I beseech you, my soul, that you -advise Bardya to escape as soon as he may and return -to Bactra, where he will be safe.</p> - -<p>“‘I am now at Damascus, the chief city of Syria, resting -before we continue to Sardis. I hear nothing of -wars in the realms I go to govern, save the depredations -of certain wild tribes on the northeastern border. I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_142">[142]</span> -look forward to lonely days without you. I may find -opportunity to subdue the Ionian cities, which are far -too independent and do not properly recognize the -majesty of Iran. Till I hear from you I—’”</p> - -<p>Athura paused and replaced the letter in her belt, saying, -“The rest is for me alone.”</p> - -<p>Bardya sat dreamily listening to the rustle of the -breeze in the oak leaves and gazing at the dark ridges -of Mount Elwend in the west. “I have never thought -much of visions, prophecies, or wonder-working performers -who deceive the eye by quick movements,” he -said after a moment of silence. “Darius says there is -a future life; that the soul, leaving this body as one -leaves a worn-out cloak, passes into the unseen world -and continues to live; that Ahura-Mazda is a God in -very truth and that He sends messengers to earth. -Darius is wise and learned. If there is a future life and -if congenial spirits hover round us, then indeed must -those spirits who surround the King be all devils! His -savage mind is blinded by love of power and moved to -murder by jealousy and fear of me, his brother. I remember -Belteshazzer, when he was a great and trusted -counselor of Cyrus, our father. I feared him, too; and -no man who ever looked into his reproving eye could do -otherwise than fear him. I wish I could know the mind -of Prexaspes. He seemed sincere. I will go with him -and trust to my own arm for protection. But, sweet -sister, I fear to leave you here in the power of my -brother. Can you not flee with me?”</p> - -<p>“Fear not for me, brother. Cambyses will not harm -me. He has no excuse. I am not in line for the throne. -The right to rule goes to the male descendants of the -Achæmenian family. I must not leave Artistone. -How can I go now? I should hinder you. Besides, I -must wait here for my Prince.”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_143">[143]</span>Bardya did not argue with her further, and she did not -oppose his plan of escape further.</p> - -<p>The feast day came. There gathered into the great -assembly hall of the palace a thousand of the notables -of earth to honor the departure of Prince Bardya to his -realms. Prexaspes had spared no expense in adorning -the palace and in preparing the feast and the entertainments -that should accompany it. The many pillars -shining with burnished gold plate, which supported the -gilded beams of the palace roof, were festooned with -garlands of flowers, interwoven with streamers and -bunting of many colors. The heavy tapestries of the -doors in the assembly room were drawn back with silver -chains. Across one end of this room a table was set, -from the ends of which extended two longer tables in -such manner that the King, when sitting at the center -of the first, could see all his guests before him. Those -he delighted to honor would sit at his table; others of -less consequence would occupy the others. Snowy linen -covers were laid. Heavy dishes of gold and silver, jars -of beautiful Samos pottery, and vases from Egypt and -Greece were put in place on them. Apples, peaches, -plums, grapes, pomegranates, figs, and other rare and -luscious fruits were heaped on shining platters. Confections, -sweet cakes, nuts, salads, and relishes were in -profusion. Flowers filled the air with delicious odors. -Magnificent couches, on which the feasters might sit or -recline as they chose, were placed along the tables. At -one side of the room facing the King’s place was a low -platform with seats for musicians, who with divers musical -instruments would furnish sounds more or less harmonious -while the great ones feasted. In adjacent -rooms, graceful dancers, supple tricksters, and athletes -were waiting to go in before the King and perform. A<span class="pagenum" id="Page_144">[144]</span> -thousand servants, cooks, tasters, waiters, and attendants -made ready the feast.</p> - -<p>As the sun disappeared behind the western mountains, -a fanfare of trumpets announced that the feast was -ready, and thousands of candles were lighted in the great -banquet-room. None of those invited had failed to -come. The King’s invitation was regarded as a command. -In the cloak-room adjacent to the banquet-room, -each guest received a purple robe to be worn -during the feast and to be carried away by him at its -close.</p> - -<p>At the appointed moment Prexaspes, as ruler of the -feast, appeared, gorgeously dressed and having in his -hand a wand. As the guests entered he indicated the -seats to be occupied by them, placing them according to -their rank. At the King’s table sat Crœsus, late king of -Lydia, a prisoner, but an honored guest. There sat also -Nebuchadezzer, Prince of Nineveh, and a score of -other princes whose dominions were no longer theirs to -rule, but who, though prisoners of the King of Kings, -sat at his table and showed to the world that they lived -on his bounty. When all had been duly placed, they -remained standing with faces turned towards the throne -at one end of the room and awaited the coming of the -King. At the left of the throne was a door covered by -heavy purple curtains hanging from ceiling to floor.</p> - -<p>Having placed all the guests, Prexaspes touched a -cord and the tinkle of a bell announced the coming of -royalty. The curtains of the door near the throne were -parted and disclosed the King advancing, followed by -his brother, his wife, and his two sisters, the women -being closely veiled. The King strode heavily forward, -his swarthy countenance lowering and his black eyes -sweeping over the guests. All the guests bowed low towards<span class="pagenum" id="Page_145">[145]</span> -him. He sat down heavily at his table. The -guests remained standing until Prince Bardya, his sisters, -and the King’s wife had taken their places at the -King’s table. Then, at a wave of Prexaspes’ wand, -the guests sank upon their seats. Immediately, nimble -servants with pitchers and goblets appeared from side -doors and poured wine for each guest. The King’s cup-bearer -stood with a great cup of Helbon wine at the -side of his master. The King seized the cup and, after -waving it slightly toward his guests, drank from it long -and deeply. The guests also drank. The musicians -took their places and began playing a weird melody, -monotonous and long-drawn-out, with many repetitions -and variations. A murmur of conversation arose.</p> - -<p>Servants brought on trays of smoking meat, of delicious -vegetables and pastries, and for each guest the -food to which he was accustomed, prepared to suit his -taste. The King ate and drank in silence, not even -addressing a word to his wife, who sat at his right hand. -Bardya and the royal sisters ate little. Their hearts -were full of anxiety over the proposed escape of the -Prince. But the King drank much wine. He also -called for soma and drank of that liquor deeply. And -as he drank, he watched Prexaspes, who ever moved -nervously about the room directing the feast. Would -the elegant Mede fail? The King began to devise a -sufficient punishment to inflict on him should he fail. -Dancers were brought in after the feast had well begun -and gave an exhibition of sinuous movement, like the -curving of a snake’s folds, or the graceful undulations -of the sea waves. After the dancers there were -performances by jugglers, mountebanks, and tricksters, -and athletes displayed their strength and agility in wrestling-bouts. -At the close of the feast, Prexaspes stood in<span class="pagenum" id="Page_146">[146]</span> -the midst and called for silence. Then he said, “O -King, by your gracious permission, I will now bring in -the Magians who hold communion with the spirits of -the departed, who have control of the powers of the -gods, and who will divine and prophesy for you, besides -doing many other wonderful things.”</p> - -<p>The faces of all were turned upon the King; and only -on the countenances of the Persian nobles and the faces -of Bardya and his sisters was disapproval written.</p> - -<p>“Let them come in with their tricks,” said the King, -sneeringly. “They may delude us, but they will not -convince us. Let them come!”</p> - -<p>“Let the lights be partially extinguished!” commanded -Prexaspes.</p> - -<p>Immediately servants extinguished the candles, except -a few at the King’s table, and semi-darkness enveloped -them all. Then a band of six Magians entered. Servants -brought in a heavy square table and set it in the -open space between the dining tables. Others brought -in some small tablets and balls, which were placed -on the table. The magicians prostrated themselves before -the King in salutation and afterwards gathered around -the square table in silence and joined hands. They were -clad in black robes, which covered their bodies in loose -folds from their necks down. Their hands were visible -below the wide sleeves of the robes, and their pallid -faces shone dead white in the semi-gloom below the dark -turbans wound loosely around their heads.</p> - -<p>As soon as the lights were extinguished, the King -turned his back upon Bardya as if weary of his presence. -Then a hand touched Bardya on the shoulder, and, turning, -he saw Prexaspes who beckoned with a nod -and disappeared into the gloom of a side chamber. -Bardya waited a moment until the attention of all was<span class="pagenum" id="Page_147">[147]</span> -concentrated upon the group of magicians; then, after -pressing Athura’s hand lightly, he rose and quietly followed -Prexaspes. The King seemed not to notice his -movements, but was really watching.</p> - -<p>Five minutes later, the Prince, wrapped in a soldier’s -cloak, stole out through the park, met Prexaspes there -alone, mounted a horse held by him in readiness, passed -through the park, and rode away with him through the -city towards the northern road. When clear of the city -environs, they spurred away at a gallop side by side -towards the city of Rhages lying at the foot of distant -Mount Demavend.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile, in the King’s presence, many wonderful -things were happening. After several minutes of -silence on the part of the Magians, the heavy table -around which they stood rose to the ceiling without apparent -supporting hands and there remained several -minutes. Balls of light floated about the room near the -ceiling. A tree sprang up out of the floor and visibly -grew till its top touched the suspended table. Then the -table slowly circled about the room, returned, and settled -down to the floor. The tree disappeared as it settled. -Upon the table, immediately, a mass of writhing snakes -appeared, hissing and shooting forth angry red tongues, -so that the guests were about to rise and flee in terror. -They disappeared. The voice of the chief magician said -in sepulchral tones:</p> - -<p>“None of these mighty wonders will bring harm to -any of you, unless you make a noise and attempt to flee. -Remain quietly in your places and behold the wonders of -the gods! Know that the spirits of the mountains and -of the valleys and of the plains are here, the rulers of -earth, whom we serve. Know that there is no other religion -worthy of practice than ours. Let the Great King -behold and act accordingly!”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_148">[148]</span>The voice ceased and a hush fell over the assembly. -The King moved uneasily in his seat, and answered in -loud, sarcastic tones: “Tricksters have existed in all -nations and in all ages! Your spirits are lying spirits -conjured up in your own minds to frighten superstitious -men. Bah! There are gods and gods! Show me a -spirit!”</p> - -<p>“It is well!” answered the magician. “We obey the -King of Kings. Only say nothing and move not!”</p> - -<p>A deep hush fell upon the assembly. The group of -magicians drew together again and formed a circle -about the table, placing their joined hands upon it and -bowing their heads. Only the chief stood as if in a -trance, looking upward. Then, above the heads of the -group a pallid, misty light suddenly appeared, growing -in density and assuming shape, until it became the shape -of a man, wavering, translucent, with a sneering, evil -countenance and sinister eyes, such as are ever ascribed -to evil spirits. The King drew in his breath sharply -and bent forward startled and alarmed. A voice seemed -to come from the spirit:</p> - -<p>“What would you ask, O King of the Earth?”</p> - -<p>For a moment the King could not reply. He was -agitated beyond measure. He summoned all his -bravado, and with a great effort stammered, “Who and -what are you?”</p> - -<p>A derisive smile curled the features of the apparition, -as the voice replied: “I am your soul’s companion, -the spirit that goes with you wherever you go! I -am your evil genius! I am—you!”</p> - -<p>Rage filled the heart of the King.</p> - -<p>“This trick shall not benefit you, O Magians!” he -shouted. “Prove to me that this is no delusion or death -shall be your portion!”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_149">[149]</span>“Demand of me any proof, O King!” responded the -voice.</p> - -<p>“Make your own proof!” retorted the King.</p> - -<p>Again the derisive smile curled the devilish features -of the apparition, while a shivering silence possessed -the wondering guests, who looked from it to the King -and from the King to it, astonished at the resemblance -between them.</p> - -<p>“At midnight, O King, last night,” said the apparition -in a sepulchral tone, “I walked with you on the -portico at the door of your bedroom and your thoughts -were of your father and of your brother. Did you hear -the whispering in the plane-tree? The thought then in -your mind has been accomplished; and there comes -hither the spirit of him that troubled you!”</p> - -<p>The apparition seemed to turn about and look in fear -to the north; then, suddenly, it faded away. A groan -arose from the chief Magian. He stirred uneasily and -turned his pallid face towards the north. His hands -were clenched and he stared into space with terror-stricken -gaze. Deathlike hush pervaded the great hall. -Then slowly and waveringly there appeared in the place -where the former apparition had stood a ghastly face; -and it was the image of Bardya, the King’s brother. -With fierce eyes it glared down upon the King; and it -seemed that blood poured down over the forehead in a -trickling stream from a deep cleft in the crown of its -head.</p> - -<p>A shriek of terrified anguish arose from the Princesses. -A chorus of exclamations broke from the guests. -The apparition suddenly disappeared. The King sat as -if stunned for a moment, looking fixedly at the point -where the apparition had been, while his face was contorted -with fear and horror. The Magians silently dissolved<span class="pagenum" id="Page_150">[150]</span> -their circle and quickly disappeared. The lights -flared up as servants ran hither and thither relighting -the candles. The King arose unsteadily. The guests -arose and stood in their places while he wearily moved, -or rather tottered, to the door by which he had entered, -and disappeared. The sisters, supporting each other and -weeping, left the room. The guests then broke into -noisy comment and wonder and proceeded to fortify -their shaken nerves with wine. Orthodox Persians -muttered curses on all Magians. The unorthodox -shook their heads and superstitiously resolved to make -sacrifices on the morrow to the spirits of the hills and to -the gods of the Magians. Arguments arose for and -against Magism; but the advocates of that cult had the -better of it, since as all had seen, it was capable of ocular -demonstration. But the orthodox said it was the religion -of devils; as for them, they would continue to -worship the Good Spirit! Besides, the latter said, it -was evident a fraud had been perpetrated, because Bardya, -the King’s brother, had been at the feast well and -alive. How could this apparition have been his ghost? -In this argument they had the best of it. But they marveled -at the King’s agitation.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_151">[151]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XI<br /> - - -<small>THE GREAT KING INTRODUCES A STRANGE CUSTOM</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">THE Great King was much shaken by the strange -apparitions which the Magi had conjured up; but -he assured himself that the whole performance had been -trickery and he fiercely planned vengeance upon the -performers. He had always boasted of his disbelief in -gods and spirits, though puzzled sometimes at the magic -of the fire-worshipers. This time, however, his gross -nature had received a severe shock and while he awaited -the return of Prexaspes that he might learn how his -brother had been dealt with, he drank deep potations of -soma and half-wished that his brother were indeed alive -so that the horrid vision might be proven false. He -paced back and forth impatiently in his apartments, -while his servants stood without, breathlessly watching -for every command lest in his present mood delay on -their part would entail upon them grave consequences.</p> - -<p>A horseman galloped through the silent city from the -north shortly before daylight and, with a hasty word to -a sleepy guard, passed through the walls into the park -and thence to the stables at the rear of the palace. -Leaving his horse in the care of servants, he entered the -palace. It was Prexaspes. After a few minutes in his -own apartments, he emerged clad in his elegant court -dress and went to the King’s apartments, where he knew -the King waited. A servant announced his presence and -he was at once admitted to the King’s presence. He<span class="pagenum" id="Page_152">[152]</span> -entered, closed the door behind him, and stood before -the King with bowed head.</p> - -<p>“Well?” demanded the King, hoarsely.</p> - -<p>“The King’s orders have been obeyed.”</p> - -<p>“How?”</p> - -<p>“A sword-stroke from behind as we rode northward. -The body has been safely disposed. Let the King be at -peace. Bardya is no more!”</p> - -<p>“Swear to me by all that you deem holy! Did the -sword cut penetrate the brow?”</p> - -<p>“It did. I swear by all the gods of the hills and valleys, -by Ahriman and by the spirits of my fathers!”</p> - -<p>The King shuddered. Mingled relief and fear shone -in his countenance.</p> - -<p>“I have had strange proof of the truth of your words, -Prexaspes,” he said. “Surely you are in league with -devils! I knew you belonged to the Magian sect, but I -did not know their power. How did they know the -manner of Bardya’s death? How could they show it?”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes smiled. He had learned what had transpired -before the King.</p> - -<p>“Without their aid it would have been impossible to -have accomplished the destruction of the Prince,” he -answered. “It would be well if the Great King should -show favor to the Magi. They can help him much. -With the assistance of the diviners and those who have -familiar spirits, who can speak with the spirits of the -dead and with the gods of the hills, the King will be -able to detect those who might plot against his life. -Nothing can be done but what they may find it out if -they desire. They help and protect their friends.”</p> - -<p>“But they worship the Lie, which from all ages has -been proscribed by the laws of Iran,” said the King, -doubtfully. “I know they have power to perform<span class="pagenum" id="Page_153">[153]</span> -wonders; but I deem them tricks. What care I? If -their tricks aid me, they shall be rewarded.”</p> - -<p>“It is right for the Great King thus to speak for the -ears of the people!” returned Prexaspes, insinuatingly. -“But if the Great King does practice all the good precepts -of Ahura-Mazda, what avails it or how does it -benefit him? I dare to speak plainly, so that you may -receive the aid of the powerful Magi whose followers -are more numerous than all others in Medea, Assyria, -and Babylonia. The deed done at your command this -night has been accomplished by their aid. The men of -orthodox faith, the worshipers of Ahura-Mazda, hate -you. Only by allying yourself with the Magi can you -hope to retain your throne. With their aid you may -defy your enemies if they should learn of Bardya’s end. -Ally yourself with the Magi and their gods and they will -gratify all your wishes. Know, O King, that these men -have wonderful powers, even greater than the priests of -Egypt or of Babylon who know some of their arts.”</p> - -<p>Cambyses was shaken. In him there was some good. -Unconsciously his physical passions had been overcoming -the good; but, occasionally, there broke through the -density of his grosser nature an inward voice urging -him to a better life. But he had no doubt of his absolute -right to do as he might will, and he had come to -believe that ordinary rules of right and wrong did not -apply to him. Prexaspes, seeing the King’s hesitation, -continued:</p> - -<p>“Let not my words arouse resentment, O King! I -seek but to do you good. My own welfare depends -upon your will. I can call to your aid the Magi and the -unseen powers. In their circle I stand next to Patatheites, -the High Priest. Have I not obeyed your will -and removed from your path the greatest danger to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_154">[154]</span> -your rule? Trust me still further and you shall continue -to have true service. Give to the Magi the chief -right to exercise religious power throughout the world, -and their vast power will keep you safely. Make now -an alliance with them and it shall be well with you.”</p> - -<p>The King paced back and forth across the room, debating -the matter. Hating all religions, because he -wished to disbelieve them, his long-standing prejudices -were not easily moved.</p> - -<p>“If I do not make this compact, then what?” he -asked presently.</p> - -<p>“If you are abandoned by them, how shall you receive -any aid?” rejoined Prexaspes. “Certainly you -can expect nothing of the followers of Zoroaster! -They have the power and the will to do you hurt. But, -through me, the Magi offer you their powerful aid. Believe -me, O King, it will be your only wise course to -accept their support.”</p> - -<p>Cambyses nervously stroked his beard. He was not -a coward. No one had ever accused him of a lack of -courage. He despised the orthodox faith because of -its moral laws, and he hated its followers. But he recognized -the strength of the argument advanced by -Prexaspes. The Magian sect was a powerful one. -Medea, Assyria, Babylon, Syria, and Phrygia were full -of them. They claimed to be in league and communion -with the gods of the earth, and indeed practiced the -occult arts, known more or less to all peoples, and in -modern days followed by some so-called spiritualists. -All of them were not evil. Many of them were reputed to -be the prophets and seers and warned the people against -the evil men who made use of their arts for their own advancement. -Stringent laws had been made and enforced -throughout Iran against that branch which attacked the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_155">[155]</span> -doctrines of Zoroaster. But this cult had flourished -especially in the mountains of Medea. Fire-worshipers -fed their sacred flames on every hilltop. The evil -and depraved gathered to them and harassed those who -opposed them. They were known to the orthodox as -worshipers of the “Lie,” to distinguish them from those -who worshiped the “Truth,” as embodied in Ahura-Mazda. -Cambyses had sometimes consulted the Magians -and required oracles of them. His father had -severely reprimanded him for such practices and had -caused the ears of Gaumata, one of the leaders of the -Magi at Hamadan, to be cut off as a warning to him -and to his sect that Cambyses should not be influenced -by them.</p> - -<p>Cambyses reviewed these matters as he paced nervously -back and forth, while Prexaspes awaited his decision -with bowed head and downcast eyes. He decided -to comply.</p> - -<p>“So be it! Only let everything be done in a politic -way!” he exclaimed harshly. “I will make a league -with the Magi. They shall have freedom to worship as -long as I rule. They must nevertheless obey me. I will -be King alone and will not permit interference. But the -laws against them shall be annulled and I will favor -them with offices.”</p> - -<p>“It is well!” said Prexaspes, bending low and touching -the floor with his hands. “Now, if the Great King -will permit, I will withdraw and will carry out our plan -to deceive the populace into the belief that Bardya still -lives in the flesh.”</p> - -<p>The King nodded and turned away. Prexaspes, with -a smirk of triumph on his face, left the room. Passing -out into the hall, he was about to go to his room, when -a servant approached and, after a low salutation, said,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_156">[156]</span> -“Noble Prexaspes, my royal mistress, the Princess -Athura, commands that you come to her waiting-room. -She would speak with you.”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes hesitated a moment. Then, drawing his -breath sharply, as if bracing himself to a severe task, -and assuming a cheerful demeanor, he followed the servant. -Athura and her sister had not retired to -their beds after the banquet. The departure of Bardya, -followed by the fearful scene produced by the Magi, -had rendered them sleepless. They had ordered their -servants to watch for and report the return of Prexaspes -to them. Prexaspes entered the room where they -awaited him and bowed very low before them, touching -the floor with his hands. Then he stood in respectful -attitude with downcast eyes, awaiting their pleasure. -The eyes of the maidens were red with weeping.</p> - -<p>“Speak, false traitor! Was it you that struck -Bardya and slew him?” exclaimed Athura, approaching -him with clenched hands and blazing eyes.</p> - -<p>Prexaspes raised his brows in well-simulated surprise.</p> - -<p>“You wrong me greatly, most noble Princess! What -mean you? No one has slain Bardya,” he answered.</p> - -<p>“But I saw his spirit! He appeared at the close of -the feast, and his head was cleft in twain as with a -sword-stroke!”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes smiled reassuringly, and drawing nearer to -the Princess he whispered: “Believe it not, O most -royal! That was but a delusion to convince the Great -King that his will had been done. How could a spirit -appear with cleft head? Spirits have no bodies that -may be seen. But Patatheites was able to influence all -there so that they believed they saw the spirit of Bardya, -while the great Prince was riding swift as the wind to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_157">[157]</span> -Rhages. Dry your tears! Bardya is beyond the reach -of the King now, and in due time you will hear that he -has arrived in his dominions. You saw no spirit. It -was but a picture from the mind of the Magian chief.”</p> - -<p>So sincere were his words and manner that Athura -was reassured. She never had been superstitious or believed -that the Magi were other than tricksters. The -sternness left her countenance. She smiled graciously -and extended her hand, which Prexaspes on bended -knee respectfully kissed while his brilliant eyes glowed -with admiration. Never, he thought at that moment, -had he seen so beautiful a face or so perfect a form, -never such a gracious and winning smile. For a moment -his heart, used to the ways of the world, satiated -with the pleasures of life, leaped within him; and he felt -that to deserve that gracious smile he would have undone -all that he had done and given up all that he had -won. The music of her voice and the sweetness of her -smile dwelt with him many a day thereafter, bringing to -him the only regret and shame that he had ever known -since childhood.</p> - -<p>“Noble Prexaspes,” she said, “I recall my harsh -words! But that was a horrible thing the great magician -showed us; and it was well thought of to deceive -the King! Surely my brother and I will reward you in -days to come when all danger shall have been removed. -As you have this night served Bardya, I promise on the -word of an Achæmenian, which has never been broken, -you will have a fitting and suitable reward. Farewell!”</p> - -<p>Bowing many times, Prexaspes backed from the room -and passed hastily to his own quarters. The sisters, relieved -of their apprehension, retired to rest.</p> - -<p>Next day there was much excitement in the city of -Hamadan. A great crowd gathered along the northern<span class="pagenum" id="Page_158">[158]</span> -road to shout a farewell to Bardya, the beloved. Their -greetings to him who impersonated Bardya, when he -appeared riding in the midst of a group of nobles, bowing -right and left, were hearty and prolonged. Prexaspes -rode at his side, smiling cynically beneath his -beard and glancing occasionally up at the great palace -on the hill where the King stood at a window gazing -down upon the demonstration. The false Bardya -passed out of the city; and so perfect was his resemblance -to the departed in feature and dress that none -suspected the imposture. At Rhages, a new escort was -provided; but at a point a day’s journey beyond Rhages -it was attacked by a band of men, supposed to be robbers, -and scattered. Bardya, whether true or false, -there disappeared and the Great King sent a punitive -expedition into the mountains to lay waste the robbers’ -homes. Certain innocent mountaineers suffered the -Great King’s vengeance, but the King’s brother could -not be found.</p> - -<p>Thus did Cambyses make himself sure of his throne, -and for many months thereafter he gave himself up to -riotous living, seeking in strong drink forgetfulness of -his crime. Meanwhile he prepared for war against -Egypt. He levied heavy taxes and called for troops -from every province. His pride grew. He deemed -himself divine. The Magi encouraged him in this faith -and brought messages from the gods of the hills to him -as the god of earth.</p> - -<p>Cambyses had one great sorrow. He was childless. -He took many women as wives. His seraglio was filled -with the most beautiful of the earth. But no child -gladdened his heart. As the months passed, his mind -became darker and more imbued with hatred of good -and the love of evil. The Magi served him well. As<span class="pagenum" id="Page_159">[159]</span> -his spies they listened among the common people and -invaded the palaces of the great. He knew that the -people feared him and did not love him. His vanity -was easily wounded. Some who spoke offensively of -him to putative friends suddenly disappeared and were -never heard of more. Throughout the vast regions governed -by him, his spies watched for plots and conspiracies. -Incipient rebellions were ferociously repressed -and those who plotted were tortured to death as examples -to others.</p> - -<p>Reviewing these things in his mind one day, while -walking on the balcony of the palace, the King looked -down upon the park surrounding the palace and noticed -a group of women sitting on benches beneath a tree, and -saw that among them were his two sisters. Their gay -chatter and laughter came up to his ears. He watched -them a moment in scowling silence, and was about to -resume his walk, when, as he turned, he was startled at -seeing before him the tall form of Patatheites, chief -priest of the Magians. The King uttered an oath, and -placed his hand on the haft of his dagger.</p> - -<p>“How come you here?” he growled. “I like not this -sudden appearing! I turn here or there and I behold -you and know not how you come or go! Speak, -slave!”</p> - -<p>The large, dark eyes of the Magian looked calmly -into the fierce, sparkling orbs of the King; and before -his direct gaze the latter quailed. Possessed of wonderful -hypnotic power, Patatheites easily ruled those -with whom he came in contact. He dared even to exercise -his power upon the King.</p> - -<p>“Let not the King’s anger strike me!” he said soothingly. -“I am his most obedient and willing slave. I -have a message from the gods, who have seen fit to -whisper it to me for you.”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_160">[160]</span>“What is it?” demanded the King, cringing somewhat -and experiencing a chill along his spinal column.</p> - -<p>“Your expedition against Egypt will be successful, -say the gods of the hills. Concerning that which you -had in your mind as to an heir for your throne, I have -a message also.”</p> - -<p>Cambyses looked upon the man with growing awe. -To no one had he ever expressed the thoughts concerning -his lack of an heir. How could this priest know that -he had just been considering that subject?</p> - -<p>“How knew you my thoughts?” he demanded. -“What is this message?”</p> - -<p>“How do the gods know?” returned the Magian. -“This message is, that one of your race shall fill your -throne after you, but it will be a son of your sister.”</p> - -<p>“What?” almost shouted the King. “Her son? and -who shall be his father?”</p> - -<p>“That I know not. But I do know that it lies in your -power to say who shall be husband to your sisters. Look -about over the world and choose one equal to yourself.”</p> - -<p>Cambyses was silent a moment and his thought ran -to one only who might claim to be of equal birth, the -Prince of Iran. Jealous wrath arose and almost choked -his utterance.</p> - -<p>“There is none,” he stuttered, “unless it might be -that accursed Hystaspis!”</p> - -<p>The Magian nodded meaningly.</p> - -<p>“Even now,” said he, “she has in her bosom a letter -from him which she is instructed to deliver to you, demanding -that you give her leave to go to him and marry -him. She will present this request. What then?”</p> - -<p>“She shall not go to him! Instead I will send him -a bowstring in the hands of our trusty servants.”</p> - -<p>Patatheites shook his head.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_161">[161]</span>“No, it would mean your overthrow. The Persians -and Bactrians are restless because you have seen fit to -give freedom to the Magi; and they only await a leader -to rise against you. They yet look for Bardya to return -and raise the standard of rebellion. They think -you have him imprisoned. If he could return they -would that instant join him. If harm befall the Prince -of Iran, remember that his old lion of a father reigns -at Bactra, and that he has three hundred thousand of -Cyrus’s veterans under his immediate command. The -son is the apple of the old man’s eye, the center of his -soul; and, in spite of his oath to Cyrus, which pledged -him to your support, he would tear even you from -your throne should you harm the Prince. You have -nothing to fear from that young man. His oath binds -him to you. He is such a stickler for faith and truth -that he will not break it, even though you should refuse -him the hand of your sister. But there is a plan -whereby you may move in accordance with the advice -of the gods, yet inflict on that Prince most grievous suffering -if you will.”</p> - -<p>“What is this plan? I would go far to harass him. -What mean you?”</p> - -<p>“The King has two sisters, both fair to look upon. -There is none in all the world to equal them in birth -save the King. Why not do as the ancient Egyptian -kings used to do—marry these two sisters yourself?”</p> - -<p>Cambyses stared at his interlocutor with open mouth. -Such an idea had never entered his brain. It was contrary -to Aryan law that one should marry any one closer -than a cousin in blood relationship. He swore a great -oath of astonishment. He looked down at his sisters, -the one in all the glory of well-developed womanhood, -the other just emerging from childhood to womanhood, -both beautiful and of royal carriage.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_162">[162]</span>“Which of these sisters shall mother a king?” he -demanded of the Magian, presently.</p> - -<p>“It was not said. But why should the King choose? -Is not the King of Kings above the laws of the Medes -and Persians and may he not do as he will? Is not the -King’s word and his decree law? If the King decree -that he marry both his sisters, is it not law? Bah! -The customs of the Aryans must give way to your divine -will. I have spoken. Let the King act on my -advice!”</p> - -<p>The King was silent. He contemplated his sisters. -He turned again to the Magian, but the latter had disappeared. -He looked about. He had not heard him go. -This uncanny habit of Patatheites in appearing and disappearing -at will made the King shiver. This new idea -of taking his sisters in marriage, however, was a -novel one and worthy of thought. He slowly descended -by steps from the balcony to the earth and walked towards -the group of women. As soon as the latter noticed -his approach, there was a hasty movement among -the women, some of whom departed. The sisters of -the King arose as he approached, and stood in respectful -attitude.</p> - -<p>“Hail, sisters!” he said, attempting to speak graciously. -“I trust you are enjoying this pleasant -weather. Winter approaches and we shall soon go -down to Susa.”</p> - -<p>They bowed in reply. He looked them over critically. -Yes, they were very beautiful. The younger he -did not dislike so much as the elder. He had hated the -elder with the same jealous hatred that he had felt towards -his brother; but the younger had been a child and -had not incurred his displeasure, nor had she ever said -bitter words to him. He was surprised when Athura -sank to her knee, saying, “I have a petition, O King!”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_163">[163]</span>He frowned down upon her, suspecting what she was -about to ask.</p> - -<p>“Speak!” he said.</p> - -<p>“O brother, the Prince of Iran has begged me to remind -you that our father, Cyrus, promised me to him -in marriage. He requests that you now send me to him -as his wife.”</p> - -<p>A smile of disdain curved the heavy lips of the King. -This was the first time his proud sister had ever bent her -knee or presented a petition to him. He gloated a moment -over her in silence, seeking words that might assure -her once for all of the hopelessness of her request.</p> - -<p>“Impossible!” he ejaculated. “I come to you with -a message from the gods. His request cannot be -granted now or ever. There is no one fit to mate with -one of our family. Therefore it remains that we, you -and I, you two and I—that we intermarry, so that the -throne of our fathers may continue to be filled with the -race of Cyrus!”</p> - -<p>Artistone gasped in astonishment. Athura rose to -her feet, shocked and amazed. Her eyes searched the -evil, leering face of her brother, to ascertain whether he -were crazed or drunk.</p> - -<p>“Are you demented?” she gasped. “Marry your -sisters? Never since Aryans lived has it been permitted! -Death will be preferable! Are you in earnest? -Or is it a horrible joke?”</p> - -<p>“Never have I been more in earnest, my beautiful -sister!” answered Cambyses, mockingly. “Am I not -King? Is not my decree above all law and custom? I -tell you that presently I will issue my decree making it -lawful for the King of the World to marry even his sister! -I shall marry you, Athura! I will bend your -proud spirit to my will. You, Artistone, shall be my<span class="pagenum" id="Page_164">[164]</span> -wife. You shall be my chief wife, my queen. If either -of you refuse, a bowstring will be your portion. My -other wives shall be subject to you, except as I command. -I have spoken. It shall be so!”</p> - -<p>He turned on his heel and stalked back towards the -palace, while his sisters stood as if rooted to the earth -staring at his receding form. He turned after going a -dozen paces.</p> - -<p>“Write no more messages to that Darius,” he said to -Athura. “I shall send a bowstring to him if you do so. -The world is not large enough to contain him and me at -the same time. I have spoken!”</p> - -<p>He continued to the palace, while his sisters, dumb -with amazement and hot with anger, watched his receding -form in silence.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_165">[165]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XII<br /> - - -<small>THE FORCE OF AN OATH</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">THE Prince of Iran paced slowly back and forth on -the roof of his palace in the citadel of Sardis, in -company with his friend Gobryas. From it, grand -views of famous seas and lands could be had. At one -side, the rugged crests of Mount Tmolus stretched -away in verdant splendor; at the other, and far below, -lay the beautiful plain of Hermus through which flowed -the river Pactolus on its bed of golden sand. Just below, -lay the great city of Sardis, capital of his province, -rich and splendid in its Grecian beauty and Persian -strength. Far away to the west lay the blue waters of -the great sea, with its hundred isles where Grecian -genius had made fairylands of nature’s own gracious -handiwork. Overhead, the softly tinted azure was a -well of golden sunshine. The air was smooth as water -to the face and like nectar to the lungs. But the eyes -of the Prince gazed not on these splendors. They were -moody and introspective.</p> - -<p>“Brother of mine,” he was saying, “is not this a land -of infinite pleasure? No wonder these Hellenes cling to -it! No wonder they talk in poems and work out poems -in stone. One could live here very happily, provided -other conditions were assured.”</p> - -<p>Gobryas smiled.</p> - -<p>“By ‘other conditions,’” he suggested, “you mean<span class="pagenum" id="Page_166">[166]</span> -that if a certain Princess who excels all others in the -world in beauty were here, you would be content.”</p> - -<p>The Prince nodded a smiling assent.</p> - -<p>“Truly you are deep in your reasoning!” he replied. -“Now, while these hills and valleys, this sea and this -plain, may be beautiful, it is not such a paradise for me -as would be the rugged hills of Persia or the hot sands -of Iran, were I permitted to dwell there with that same -Princess. I have often wondered whether, if I were a -simple farmer or a sheep-herder and permitted to have -her with me, I would not be far happier than as a ruler -of this great province without her. Power is sweet to -a man. The right to rule, to speak a word and give life -or death, to sit as a judge righting wrongs and endeavoring -to make the people prosperous and happy, accords -with my disposition. But truly, Gobryas, I would give -all these in exchange for a shepherd’s life with her, the -incomparable queen, the sweetest spirit and most intelligent -mind ever given to inhabit a perfect body. Ah, -God grant that when my letter reached the King through -her, his heart was inclined to justice and to redeem his -father’s pledge to me! But I fear it was not. Else why -this delay? No letter has come from her for weeks, -nor has the King sent me word of his decision. I have -been planning how I would march with ten thousand -men to meet her, even at Damascus.”</p> - -<p>“May Ahura-Mazda favor you!” said Gobryas, -heartily. “It may be the King will demand delay on -account of his approaching war with Egypt. It may be -that, instead of a gracious assent to marry, an order -will come for you to lead your fifty thousand veterans -to meet his army at Tyre. Is not your army well appointed -in all its equipment, able to march even to Hamadan -to meet this Princess—perhaps to rescue her? It<span class="pagenum" id="Page_167">[167]</span> -may become necessary. The oath that you and your -father took to Cyrus has bound you to serve an insane -master, who may refuse your just petition.”</p> - -<p>“A letter from my father is overdue also,” said the -Prince, ignoring the suggestion of his friend. “How I -would like to see my royal father! Truly he knows the -secret of youth. His years sit lightly upon his shoulders.”</p> - -<p>“That is because he has observed the ancient customs -of his people—to live temperately, uprightly, and -energetically.”</p> - -<p>“You have said only a part of it. Much is due to -his calmness. He never allows passion or prejudice to -upset his equanimity. He smiles at all terrors, hardships, -or dangers. He accepts that which comes as a -duty. His calm is infinite!”</p> - -<p>Their attention was now given to a horseman who -was toiling slowly up the steep side of the mountain to -the citadel. He was dust-covered, and his horse was -wet with sweat.</p> - -<p>“A messenger!” exclaimed the Prince. “Now perhaps -we shall hear the decrees of fate! Ah, Gobryas, -you have never known what it is to have the love of -such a woman, and be so in danger of losing her! God -grant that you may some day know the sweetness of -love!”</p> - -<p>Gobryas laughed. He twirled the ends of his long -mustache and smoothed down the folds of his cloak. -“While I have never been as deeply in love as you,” he -responded, “yet I know somewhat of it. Has not your -Princess a sister? Perhaps she has smiled on me.”</p> - -<p>“What! Artistone? She is a sweet child! Has she -looked upon you with favor?”</p> - -<p>“I have thought so,” admitted Gobryas. “I may be<span class="pagenum" id="Page_168">[168]</span> -mistaken. She condescended to talk with me sometimes -when we were journeying from Bactra with the -body of her father. Her smiles and her eyes have led -me to believe that she regards me with approval. When -I return from the Egyptian campaign, I shall demand -leave of the King to speak to her of marriage, if you -consent. My family is ancient. I am one of the seven -nobles of Persia from whose daughters the kings have -often chosen their brides.”</p> - -<p>“I will leave no influence untried in your favor,” said -the Prince, warmly. “That will be a happy event, if -we who have mingled our blood as brothers, should -marry sisters! How slow that messenger is! His horse -seems to have come far.”</p> - -<p>The messenger soon arrived at the citadel wall. -Presently he appeared before the Prince, accompanied by -a servant who carried his dispatch-bag. The Prince -recognized him as one of his father’s messengers, a man -who had followed the King of Iran on many campaigns.</p> - -<p>“Hail, royal Prince!” exclaimed the messenger, bending -his knee. “I bring you greetings from your royal -father and letters from him and from Cambyses, the -King of Kings, who was kind enough to entrust me with -a packet for you.”</p> - -<p>“I am glad to see you, son of Darya,” said the Prince. -“Go and rest while I read the letters. My servants will -see that you have food and drink. You shall have new -clothing and a bag of gold. After you have been refreshed, -come hither again, as I would question you.”</p> - -<p>The servant took the messenger away and gave him of -the best. The Prince hastily broke the seals of the dispatch-bag -and poured out its contents upon a table. He -examined the several packets hastily and was disappointed -at not finding any letter from Athura.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_169">[169]</span>“This is evil luck!” he exclaimed. “Surely she -could have sent me a letter by the hand of this messenger! -Here is an official dispatch bearing the King’s -seal. Here is one from the noble Otanes. Ah, here is -one from my father! We will read it first.”</p> - -<p>He broke the seal and unwrapped the vellum which -covered the inner roll of papyrus. Unrolling this, he -read aloud:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> -<p>“<i>Beloved Son</i>:</p> - -<p>“It gave me very great pleasure to receive your letter -and to hear that you are well and at peace in your -provinces. A letter from your mother has also arrived -this day. She is well and speaks of her great loneliness -in that both you and I are absent. I have determined to -send for her that she may be with me here, since it now -seems that I shall have to remain here several months. -I have just received a letter from the King of Kings, -by the hand of the Grand Chamberlain, Prexaspes, advising -me that the Prince Bardya has departed for Bactra -from Hamadan. But the Prince has not yet arrived. -This letter also calls for a levy of one hundred thousand -men for the proposed war in Egypt. What Prince -Bardya will say to this request, I fear will not please the -King. Reports have come which cause me much uneasiness. -It is said the King of Kings is consulting the -sorcerers and consorting with those who worship the -Lie. His delay for months to permit Bardya to come -hither has caused much uneasiness.</p> - -<p>“This realm is peaceful now, although the Sogdians -are turbulent and the Getæ are ever plotting raids upon -their neighbors. The fear of my veterans is upon them, -however, and the mountain chiefs are making daily professions -of fealty and devotion. But I think it is fear<span class="pagenum" id="Page_170">[170]</span> -rather than love which causes them to be at peace and -to turn traders instead of looters.</p> - -<p>“But I will write no more, except to say that the son -of Darya will make due inquiries and observations of -affairs at Hamadan so that he may report fully to you -concerning them.”</p> -</div> - -<p>The Prince re-read that portion of the letter referring -to Bardya.</p> - -<p>“I look for trouble as soon as Bardya arrives in -Bactra,” said he. “It is well that my father has remained -there. He will restrain the Prince. Now I will -read the King’s letter.”</p> - -<p>He took up the largest packet, broke the seal, and -untied the cord around it. The vellum wrappings having -been removed, two clay tablets, written closely in -the cuneiform script of official decrees, were revealed. -He read aloud:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“I, Cambyses the Achæmenian, son of Cyrus, King -of Kings, King of all the Earth, Ruler of All Nations, -the Great King, have decreed:</p> - -<p>“First: That it is lawful for the King of Kings to -take to wife any woman whether it be his sister or another.</p> - -<p>“Second: That the Princesses Athura and Artistone -shall be his wives.”</p> -</div> - -<p>The Prince stopped reading. He was speechless with -amazement. He trembled and seemed about to fall; but -Gobryas seized his arm and supported him.</p> - -<p>“Am I dreaming? Read it, brother, and say if what -I read is there!” he exclaimed, handing the tablets to -Gobryas.</p> - -<p>The latter seized the tablets and looked at them.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_171">[171]</span>“There is no mistake!” he said. “So runs the writing! -But God forbid that such act of a maniac could be -accomplished! Will he dare do this thing and the Persian -nobles not tear him from the throne?”</p> - -<p>The Prince, with a mighty effort, recovered his -strength and drew up his tall form to its full height, as -he might if facing death. He looked as in a dream at -the distant mountains, at the sparkling sea and the deep -blue of the heavens filled with the soft golden light of -the afternoon sun. His words, when he spoke, were -low and tense:</p> - -<p>“This I know, that the Princess Athura will not become -his wife! She may be at this moment dead or in -prison! She would never submit to such infamy! This -is a deadly insult to me, the son of the King of Iran, the -son of kings better in the right to rule than he; and it -shall not be borne! I will march to Hamadan! I will -throw down that cursed beast from the throne! By the -living God, I recall my oath to Cyrus! I am not bound -because he has broken faith. He may have slain her. -He shall die! Come, Gobryas! Not a moment is to be -lost. Gather together my officers. Call into the ranks -every man. We will march before the sun goes down!”</p> - -<p>He smote his palms together. His chest heaved -with mighty emotions. The world seemed rocking to its -dissolution and he about to fall with it.</p> - -<p>Gobryas placed one arm around his friend and compelled -him to walk slowly back and forth. He feared -for a moment that the Prince’s reason was tottering. -Never had he seen him so moved. He sought for words -to comfort him.</p> - -<p>“Beloved Prince,” he said, “listen to me! Athura is -not one who will tamely submit to such wrong. She has -not submitted. She has escaped or she has slain herself.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_172">[172]</span> -But let us hear further from the messenger. Let -us read these other letters. Then let us take counsel -so that we may not fail. We who have not taken an -oath to Cyrus will pull Cambyses down from his throne -and slay him like a dog! Have good courage, brother! -Let me depart this night for Persia. There I will -gather the lords of Persia and with an army march up -to your aid when you cross the Tigris. Athura and -Artistone may have perished, but vengeance remains. -Let us make Bardya King. Forbid it not! I will depart -this night. Three months from now a hundred -thousand Persians will be camped around the royal palace -at Hamadan.”</p> - -<p>The Prince sat down on a bench beneath the awning -and buried his face in his hands. He was silent for -some moments, while Gobryas nervously paced back and -forth. After a while, the Prince again arose, pallid -but calm. He said, speaking argumentatively: “He is -King. My loyalty is to the King, though my hatred is -towards the man. Must we not put aside personal -wrongs, Gobryas, and trust that God will avenge us? -No Achæmenian has ever broken an oath, but has kept -it in spirit as well as in letter. It is hard to serve such a -King, but let us consider well before we start civil war. -If what he has decreed has been accomplished, then am -I absolved from my oath. But I must wait until I know -what has occurred. We will send a dispatch to my -father, seeking his counsel. Shall I plunge the world -into war because of my personal wrong?”</p> - -<p>“I had not considered that,” answered Gobryas. “I -am not oath-bound. I dreamed of Artistone; and lo, -this cursed maniac has spoiled my dream! But I shall -be guided by you.”</p> - -<p>The Prince went to the table on which the other letters<span class="pagenum" id="Page_173">[173]</span> -lay, and took up the one sealed with the seal of -Otanes. He read it aloud:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“<i>To the royal Prince of Iran, son of Hystaspis, the -King, greeting</i>:</p> - -<p>“I have intrusted this letter to your servant, knowing -his fidelity, and have instructed him to deliver it to -you alone and not to let it pass from his hands to any -other while he lives. Know that the King has broken -all the ancient laws and customs of Persia; and we, as -one of the seven families of Persia, are calling to the -other six for counsel. We have sent letters to your beloved -father, begging him to consent to reign.</p> - -<p>“This Cambyses has proven that he is no longer sane. -He is possessed of devils. His debaucheries have -weakened his mind, while sharpening his appetite for -doing evil. He has advanced the Magi to the choicest -places in the realm. He has failed to remember that -the seven noble families of Persia are entitled to the -chief places under him, as in the time of Cyrus. He is a -worshiper of the Lie and not of the Truth. He has -forgotten the religion of the Aryans and has fallen into -the hands of the fire-worshiping Magi, devil-worshipers -of the hills. He has slain without cause many who -have displeased him, even Persians of high rank. He has -disregarded all laws and customs. The last and most -infamous thing is this marriage with his two sisters -which he purposes to accomplish. He has declared that -he as King is above all laws and customs, that -Aryan laws are not binding on him. Knowing by common -report that you and the royal Princess Athura -are promised to each other, all Persia is in a ferment -of discontent over the gross insult shown you in thus -taking your promised wife by force to his own vile -harem.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_174">[174]</span>“Prince Bardya left Hamadan ten months ago for -Bactra. But it is reported that robbers set upon and -captured him just after he left Rhages. He has disappeared. -I think the robbers were the men of Cambyses -and that Bardya has been slain.</p> - -<p>“Send us, therefore, but one word, telling us that you -march hither with your army; and we will meet you at -Susa with two hundred thousand men, to throw down -this beast from his throne. In you alone do the Persian -people hope. Your father’s age and inclination may not -permit him to accept the great burden of ruling this empire, -in case Bardya cannot be found; and we shall call -you to the throne. Send us orders.”</p> -</div> - -<p>The Prince was greatly moved. Gobryas watched -him curiously. Would not this letter overcome his -scruples? The Prince sat down heavily by the table and -supported his head on his hands. After a moment of -silence, he said:</p> - -<p>“Call the son of Darya.”</p> - -<p>Gobryas pulled a silken cord, and immediately a servant -appeared.</p> - -<p>“Bring the messenger here,” he commanded.</p> - -<p>The son of Darya appeared quickly. He bowed low -before the Prince, who pointed to a bench, indicating -that he might sit. But he remained standing.</p> - -<p>“Son of Darya,” said the Prince, “you have come -far and served faithfully. How is the old man, my -father? Has he changed much? Is his body bending -with age and toil?”</p> - -<p>The man’s dark eyes glowed with affection as he answered: -“No, royal Master. Your father stoops not, -nor does his face show care. It is not wrinkled save -when he smiles on his sons, as he calls the soldiers.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_175">[175]</span> -Bactra is happy, because the people dwell in safety and -have justice dealt out to them. Your royal father remains -youthful and is ready to march on smooth or -rough roads at any moment. There is no man in all -Iran like unto him.”</p> - -<p>“You saw and heard much as you came hither. You -stopped at Hamadan and you gathered news there for -me. Is it not so?”</p> - -<p>“I was commanded to see and hear and to report all -to you.”</p> - -<p>“It is well. From what you saw and heard, know -you anything concerning the marriage of the King to his -sisters?”</p> - -<p>“It was all the talk in the rest-houses and in the -streets of Hamadan when I came to that city. I was -not permitted to see the royal Princesses, as the marriage -feast had occurred but two weeks prior to my -arrival. But I caught a glimpse of the royal lady, -Artistone, at a window in the palace. I thought it was -she. It was said that the King has ten other wives and -keeps them in one part of his palace separate from all -others, like the Assyrians. There had been much murmuring -among the Persians and some rioting between -them and the Magi. I saw the noble Otanes, who was -very wroth and who has since left the city, going southward -to his castle in Persia. He bade me say to you -that you should make quick answer and that he hopes -to hear that your army will march at once to Damascus.”</p> - -<p>“Did you hear whether the Princesses consented?”</p> - -<p>“They both refused to consent to the marriage; but -the King decreed the marriage instead of observing the -Persian custom of marrying. It was reported that he -gave them their choice of marriage or death, and that -Princess Athura chose death. It was also reported that<span class="pagenum" id="Page_176">[176]</span> -one of the Princesses had escaped from the palace and -had disappeared. I know that squads of cavalry were -searching the country all around the city. It was said -to be Athura who fled. I have also a verbal message -from Prexaspes, who bade me say to you these words, -‘The bird has escaped the fowler’s net.’”</p> - -<p>“What else said he?” demanded the Prince, greatly -agitated.</p> - -<p>“Nothing. But he gave me a purse of gold.”</p> - -<p>“Have you heard whether Athura was found?”</p> - -<p>“No. The palace servants are quaking with terror -and dare not talk. It is said that the King slew three of -them with his own hands on the day when the Princess -fled. She had not been discovered, I think, when I -left.”</p> - -<p>“What heard you of the Prince Bardya?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing, except that he had departed from the city -some months before I arrived, going towards Rhages. -At Rhages, it was said that the Prince had passed -through and had then been set upon by robbers and -taken into the mountains. It is a great mystery. Some -say that he is dead, slain by the Magi, or that the Magi -have him imprisoned in their mountain strongholds.”</p> - -<p>“What rumors of the war with Egypt did you hear?”</p> - -<p>“The King is gathering a great army from all parts -of his empire. It is said he will gather it at Arbela in -the spring and march thence by way of Damascus and -Tyre.”</p> - -<p>“You heard nothing more of the Princesses?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing. I spoke with the guards of the palace. -But they are black-faced villains from Azerbijan, under -the control of the Magi; and they would tell me nothing.”</p> - -<p>“You may go now,” said the Prince. “You have<span class="pagenum" id="Page_177">[177]</span> -done well. Go and rest. I will call you again. Make -ready to return in three days.”</p> - -<p>The man departed.</p> - -<p>“What mean the words of Prexaspes, think you?” -asked the Prince, turning to Gobryas. “Does he refer -to Bardya or to Athura?”</p> - -<p>“I should say, to Athura. Prexaspes loved not -Bardya, but he admired you. Undoubtedly he referred -to Athura. Perhaps the packet containing the King’s -decrees contained a letter from him.”</p> - -<p>Gobryas took the wrappers up from the floor where -they had fallen and found a closely written sheet of -vellum.</p> - -<p>“It is a letter from Prexaspes,” he said.</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> -<p>“<i>To the Prince of Iran, greeting</i>:</p> - -<p>“Cambyses, King of Kings, the King of All the -Earth, the Great King, commands that you gather fifty -thousand soldiers and, leaving only force sufficient to -garrison the chief cities under command of Metaphernes, -that you march to Tyre, there to await the gathering of -the other armies of the King. He has determined to -punish the King of Egypt for injuries and insults heretofore -sustained. You are ordered to hire all the Phœnician -ships and as many of the Hellenes as you can. -Let them also gather at Tyre. Also to engage all the -Cretan slingers and Greek hoplites from Ionia and the -islands. Pay them liberally from the King’s money. -Bring with you the treasures of your provinces and -gather provisions at Tyre to subsist five hundred thousand -men for a year’s campaign in Egypt. Be ready to -lead the King’s armies. For the King orders that you -have chief command under him. In four months be at -the place appointed.</p> - -<p class="right">“(For the King) <span class="smcap">Prexaspes</span>.”</p> -</div> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_178">[178]</span>“The King does me honor indeed!” exclaimed the -Prince, angrily. “One day he insults and wrongs me; -the next he appoints me leader of his army. I will -march to Tyre, indeed! If I march no further towards -Hamadan, it will be because I find that Athura has indeed -escaped. But, alas! Gobryas, I fear much that -she escaped only by the aid of a dagger.”</p> - -<p>“Better the dagger than the fate of Artistone! Did -the messenger not say he saw her at a palace window -two weeks after the marriage? She is but a child, and -could not escape! O, my Prince and brother! Give -me leave this night to start for Persia! I do not ask -you to raise your hand against the King! But I will -stir up all Persia against him. May Ahriman seize -him!”</p> - -<p>Gobryas paced back and forth, greatly agitated. But -the Prince shook his head.</p> - -<p>“Let us not be hasty, dear brother!” he said. “In -my own grief I had forgotten that you love Artistone. -Whatever has been done cannot now be undone. Vengeance -will wait and be more sure to those who make -sufficient preparation. Let us hasten our departure. -Perhaps Athura is flying hither, and we must prepare to -receive and protect her. If it means war, let it come! -I cannot throw Cambyses down from his throne; but my -oath does not prohibit me from resisting his tyranny by -force. I cannot agree with Otanes to make war on him. -Nor can I permit you, my brother, to go into Persia to -aid in a conspiracy against him. He has wronged you -unwittingly and has put no insult upon you, as he has -upon me. Nevertheless, if Athura has escaped and -claims my protection, she shall have it even if war be -the result.”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_179">[179]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XIII<br /> - - -<small>A CLASH OF WILLS</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap2">ATHURA and Artistone, sisters of the Great King, -were alone in their magnificent sitting-room in the -palace, having dismissed all their attendants. They sat -on a velvet-covered couch with heads close together, -discussing the latest action of the King. Between -them lay a tablet on which was engraved a copy -of the King’s decree, declaring the new law, that the -King of Kings might marry his sisters. Some days had -elapsed since the King of Kings had told them of his -intention, but as he had not again spoken on the subject, -they had concluded that he was jesting. This decree -indicated his set purpose.</p> - -<p>“Is the decree law?” asked Artistone.</p> - -<p>“No, it is not law! The King cannot set aside the -customs of his people by decrees,” answered Athura. -“I am sure that the Kings of Iran in all ages have been -bound by law and custom. But in this new empire, -it may be that the King’s decree is law, since there is -none to gainsay it. This decree shall never bind me! -Death will be welcome rather than submission to this -brutal decree!”</p> - -<p>“What shall we do?”</p> - -<p>“I have my dagger! I shall slay Cambyses, or myself, -should he seek to force us into marriage with him.”</p> - -<p>Artistone sighed. Her wan countenance indicated -fear. She was only a child of fifteen years. But<span class="pagenum" id="Page_180">[180]</span> -Athura lacked neither courage nor decision. The spirit -of her father blazed within her.</p> - -<p>“Let us plan escape,” she said. “This night we will -leave the palace. We will disguise ourselves in men’s -clothing and we will fly to Persia for safety. The lords -of Persia will protect us. We cannot escape to Bactra. -There is but one road and that will be watched.”</p> - -<p>“How can I travel so?” her sister rejoined, tears -flowing down her cheeks. “I am not strong like you. -But I will follow you.”</p> - -<p>Further conversation was interrupted by the noise of -heavy footsteps in the hall without. The heavy curtains -at the door were pushed aside and the King himself -appeared. He stopped just within the threshold and, -folding his arms, struck a majestic attitude and looked -down at his sisters.</p> - -<p>He writhed his brutal countenance into the semblance -of a smile and said: “All hail, great Queens, wives of -the King of Kings, the Great King! Are you not rejoicing -that I have condescended to do you so great -honor as to make you both the first ladies in all the -world?”</p> - -<p>The sisters were speechless. They gazed up at the -harsh features of their brother, as if upon a serpent.</p> - -<p>As they did not answer, he continued: “I never did -like the formalities of a state marriage. My decree was -the shortest and best way, since it did not require -your assent. I come now to ask you to set a near date -for the marriage feast. At the end of the week, you -shall be crowned Queens of the Earth. What say you?”</p> - -<p>He ceased and waited for an answer, leering at them -drunkenly.</p> - -<p>“Surely you mean not to make us actually wives, -contrary to all the laws of the Medes and Persians?” -said Athura.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_181">[181]</span>“But it is not contrary to their laws,” he retorted. -“Have I not decreed a new law? Am I not supreme? -Is there any other that can make a law? Ah, you are -a proud woman, Athura, and your heart is set on that -Prince of Iran whom I hate above all men and would -slay, were it not greater satisfaction to make him serve -me without his hoped-for reward of marrying you! I -have thought well on this noble revenge! I hate you -also; but I will bend you to my will, and you shall be my -concubine if not my wife, whether you desire or not! -As for Artistone, I hate her not. I prefer to make her -my chief wife. She shall be Queen. I have spoken! -Artistone, go to the Queen’s room and there abide. -Athura, follow me now to the room set apart for my -women!”</p> - -<p>Athura rose, her eyes blazing, and moved swiftly towards -the King, with her right hand drawing from her -bodice a short, keen dagger.</p> - -<p>“Truly, brute without sense or reason,” she hissed, -“I come to you, but with death in my hand!”</p> - -<p>She leaped towards him and the dagger gleamed in -her raised hand. With an exclamation of alarm the -King sprang backward through the door. He stumbled -and almost fell as he ran down the hall. As she did -not pursue, he halted and shouted at her, while shaking -his fist: “Death is it? So shall it be to you, after I -bend your proud spirit!” Then he roared for his -guards.</p> - -<p>Athura paused at the door. She heard the King’s -threat and his wrathful call for his body-guard. She -saw the hall filling with armed men. She turned back -and fled across the room, crying to her sister: “Come! -Follow me into the bedroom! They come to seize us!”</p> - -<p>But Artistone, as if dazed, sat still, and, weeping<span class="pagenum" id="Page_182">[182]</span> -aloud, wrung her hands. Athura paused at the door of -her bedroom and cried: “Come! Hurry!”</p> - -<p>A dozen men poured into the room and rushed towards -her. Artistone did not move. Athura entered -her room, threw shut the heavy door, and bolted it just -as the men hurled themselves against it. The King -shouted in a loud voice so that Athura might hear: -“Let her stay there and starve awhile! She will come -to her senses! Establish guards here and watch! Let -her not escape on forfeit of your lives! She will kiss -my hand presently. As for you, Artistone, come with -me. You shall be my Queen!” He went to Artistone, -took her by the hand, and led her, weeping bitterly, -away. The sisters never saw each other again.</p> - -<p>Athura waited like a tigress at bay, dagger in hand, -at her bedroom door, until satisfied that no attempt -would be made to force an entrance. Then she examined -the brazen lattice-work with which a window -looking out upon the inner court was guarded and saw -that it was securely fastened. She drew a heavy curtain -over the window. Thus securely shut in she began to -prepare for escape. She realized that she was powerless -to aid her sister. It was equally clear to her that only in -immediate escape could she avoid disgrace or death. -It would be useless to ask mercy of the King. Her plan -of escape was already formed. She was acquainted -with every room and passage in the palace, and knew -the secrets of it. Her only fear was that Cambyses -also knew those secrets and would set guards to watch -every avenue of escape.</p> - -<p>After assuring herself that no immediate attempt -would be made to break into her retreat, she entered a -large closet, which was connected with her room by a -door and in which were stored her clothing and jewels.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_183">[183]</span> -It was a long, narrow room. At one end was a window -guarded by brazen lattice-work and by shutters of the -same metal. The shutter was hinged to the sills and -commonly stood open to admit air into the closet. The -lattice-work was also hung on hinges but was secured -by a massive lock on the inside. Athura took a key -from a convenient hook, cautiously inserted it into the -lock in the lattice, and found that it would readily turn. -She looked out across the roof of a lower portion of the -palace into the park at the western side and saw no -guards. Satisfied that the way was yet clear, she -quickly opened a chest at one corner of the closet and -took from it a short ladder of rope, a suit of clothes of -a sort commonly worn by young men, and a jeweled -belt from which hung a short sword. It had been years -since she had used these. She sighed as she remembered -how she and her brother Bardya, without the knowledge -of the Great King, her father, had sometimes disguised -themselves and wandered forth at night to observe the -common people, to take part in their sports and entertainments, -and to mingle with those who came and went -on the streets of the city. How long ago that seemed! -As she knelt by the chest and laid out the clothes, she -recalled how the Prince of Iran, having been admitted -to the secrets of her escapades, had gravely rebuked her, -but had nevertheless disguised himself and accompanied -her and Bardya, as he said, to protect them. The danger -of her situation allowed her to think but a moment of -those happy days. From another chest, bound with -silver bands, she took a long necklace of precious stones, -and a belt of beautifully embossed leather to which were -fastened purselike compartments full of gold coins. -She undressed and fastened the money-belt around her -waist. Then she put on the suit of men’s clothing and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_184">[184]</span> -stowed away the jewels in its pockets. She then cut her -hair to a length just sufficient to touch the collar of her -tunic. Upon her head she set a round felt cap. Critically -surveying her appearance in a mirror, she saw that -she resembled a well-dressed youth of the nobler class -of Medes, but one whose face was far too beautiful and -feminine to pass for that of a man. Taking from a -cabinet a box of unguents and powders, she skillfully -deepened the color of her eyebrows and darkened her -complexion, until she resembled a young Mede of mixed -Semitic and Aryan blood.</p> - -<p>These preparations consumed much time. Darkness -fell upon the earth. Then a heavy knocking sounded -upon the door of the bedroom and a rough voice said: -“May you live forever, O Great Princess! I have a -message from my royal Master, the King of Kings!”</p> - -<p>She made no answer and, after a moment, the voice -continued: “Once more does the King of Kings offer -you peace and a place of honor as his wife. Otherwise -his sentence is that you have neither food nor water -until you submit to his royal will.”</p> - -<p>Then Athura answered, “Tell your Lord and Master -that I will take until the morning to consider.”</p> - -<p>“I am your slave!” responded the voice.</p> - -<p>“Well, well!” exclaimed the King, when he received -Athura’s message. “Our proud-spirited sister may submit, -since she sends me back so mild an answer. It is -well! The word of the King must prevail. A day or -two of solitude will not harm her. We shall yet be a -happy family!”</p> - -<p>He laughed loud and long and drank deeply of soma. -Artistone, who sat with him at dinner, made no answer, -but her eyes, red with weeping, gave evidence of her -woe.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_185">[185]</span>As soon as darkness came fully over the palace, -Athura went forth cautiously upon the roof of the -portico, descended to the ground by means of her rope -ladder, and stole away through the gloom among the -trees and shrubbery in the park. Knowing every path, -every bush and tree, it was not difficult for her to find -a way and to avoid the points where the guards sauntered -listlessly to and fro, keeping careless ward. The -King had not remembered her avenue of escape, or the -guards were careless. She climbed over the stone walls -surrounding the park, with the aid of her rope ladder, -and, making a détour to avoid the guards, walked rapidly -and boldly into the city. She went straight to a horse-market -and roused a sleepy servant, who, though at first -disposed to grumble at so late a visitor, speedily turned -obsequious when a coin was pressed into his hand. He -forthwith brought out one of the dealers in horses.</p> - -<p>“A pretty time to come buying horses!” grumbled -the latter, yawning and stretching his limbs. “Think -you, my young sprig, that I work day and night?”</p> - -<p>“Peace, grumbler!” retorted Athura, speaking -hoarsely. “If I come to buy a Nicæan steed by lamplight, -what is that to you, seeing that I have the coin? -I must go on a journey to-night many miles to the -northward and need to hire a horse. But lest you deem -me a robber, I will deposit the full price of the animal, -to be returned when I return the horse. One condition -only I exact—he must have speed and go comfortably -without fright or stumble. Fool me in this and I will -bring down the wrath of a mighty man upon you! Have -you a good horse?”</p> - -<p>“Have I a good horse? I keep nothing else, young -sir! Come to the stalls!”</p> - -<p>He led the way with alacrity. He pointed to a large<span class="pagenum" id="Page_186">[186]</span> -animal, saying, “This one is good in bottom and long -in legs. He will carry your insignificant weight all night. -Here is a Nicæan steed; but he is a fierce animal and -will not brook punishment of whip or spur. Speak -gently to him and he will carry you a week without -rest. But he surely is beyond your price!”</p> - -<p>“What is his price? I doubt that he has such mettle -as you think.”</p> - -<p>“Fifty Lydian staters is his price. For riding him -this night the price will be one Lydian stater, if you -return him to me to-morrow without injury. Assuredly -you may have a cheaper horse than this!”</p> - -<p>“Extortioner! Twenty staters is more than a good -price for that animal. I will surely report you to the -governor of the market. Think you I know nothing of -horses?”</p> - -<p>The dealer spread out his hands and bowed as if in -deep humility, saying: “I perceive your worship is well -acquainted with horseflesh. Come, I will not haggle -with you. Deposit your twenty staters in my hand and -take him. But you will surely pay an additional stater -for a fine saddle!”</p> - -<p>“Verily you are an extortioner! But I will not haggle. -One half-stater and no more! Make haste, since -my lady-love will not wait for my coming too long!”</p> - -<p>Athura took a handful of coins from a purse at her -belt and counted it into the outstretched palm of the -greedy dealer, whose eyes sparkled in triumph. The -amount was a third more than the animal was worth. -The horse was brought out, saddled and bridled, champing -his bits and pawing the earth, impatient to be gone. -Athura loved a good horse. She was an accomplished -rider. She sprang lightly into the saddle and trotted -away, shouting back at the dealer: “Farewell, son of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_187">[187]</span> -Ahriman! Keep the gold should I not return. I may -go on to Rhages before I come back.”</p> - -<p>The dealer waved his hand in reply and said to his -servant: “Young sprig! Thought he knew the prices -of animals! Bah! But then, he has a good horse, even -if he paid a stiff price. Who can he be? May the dogs -bite him if he try to return that animal! See that you -be ready to testify that this was a sale and not a letting. -We shall not repurchase the horse.”</p> - -<p>“Yea, verily, Master, it was a sale,” answered the -servant. Then they retired to their couches well satisfied.</p> - -<p>Athura cantered rapidly along the principal street of -the city going north. Night watchmen threw upon her -the rays of their lanterns. She passed a squad of soldiers -in front of a public house, where, under the influence -of wine, they were singing and making merry. -To their gibes, she waved her hand, but declined their -invitation to alight and join them. She came to the -outer boundaries of the city on the road to Rhages. -There the guards sat carelessly playing dice in their -shelter at the roadside. They heard the rapid hoof-beats -of a horse approaching from the city, but before -they could come forth to challenge, the horse with its -rider flashed by at full speed. In a second, the twain disappeared -in a cloud of dust and darkness. Grumbling -that their ease should be thus broken, the guards returned -to their game. Had they known who had passed -and that on the morrow they would be flayed alive and -quartered by an infuriated King, they would not have -been so careless. This was not their first omission of -duty, but it was the first in which the King was directly -concerned; and it was their last. They met their fate -at sundown on the morrow in the market-place after<span class="pagenum" id="Page_188">[188]</span> -a short interrogation by the King himself, as an exhibition -to all men of the King’s justice upon those who -neglected duty.</p> - -<p>It must be said of Cambyses that although to his own -passions and desires he gave loose rein and was brutal -to those who interfered therewith, yet to his subjects he -was just, and was strict in the enforcement of law. Because -he regarded himself as the lawgiver, he regarded -a breach of the law as an insult to himself. He caused -one corrupt judge to be flayed alive in the market-place. -Other evil-doers were maimed or strangled. Not only -did the guards of the road whose orders compelled them -to exact a pass of any one passing in or out of the city -after nightfall suffer, but several palace-guards whose -duty it was to watch the palace walls, were strangled -with the bowstring. His fury even threatened Prexaspes, -but that astute official was able to prove that he had -gone on a mission to a neighboring city and could not be -involved in Athura’s sudden disappearance. Spies soon -learned of the flight of the steed and its rider on the -northern road. They found the horse-dealer, whose -description of the rider indicated that it was Athura in -disguise who had hired the horse. Bands of troopers -were sent out on every road and into the fields and -mountains around the city. None knew except the captains -in charge of the bands for whom the search was -being made. It was reported generally that a robber -had broken into the palace and carried away some of -the King’s jewels.</p> - -<p>Athura rode northward for half an hour, then turning -sharply to the right and following a road which was -little better than a path, but which led to one of the -King’s desert gardens, she came to a well-beaten caravan-route -leading southward towards what is now the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_189">[189]</span> -city of Isfahan. Taking this road, she followed it southward -until she entered a road branching southwestward to -Adrapan, the winter palace of Cyrus. By this circuitous -way she hoped to deceive those who might pursue into -the belief that she was fleeing to Bactra by way of -Rhages. She did not dare take the road to Persia direct, -but planned to ride by way of Susa, or, perhaps, if her -intention should change upon reflection, she would flee -to Damascus and thence to her Prince at Sardis. As -she rode, her active brain elaborated her plans.</p> - -<p>The night was cool and clear. The brilliant stars -scintillated in the autumn sky. A quarter-moon gave -down a subdued light. A breeze swept down from -Mount Elwend, whose rugged heights lay darkly against -the western sky. The road to Adrapan followed the -base of a promontory of the Zagros range, which here -jutted out into the plain. Here and there near the -highway were the cottages of gardeners, who by irrigating -their crops with the precious waters of Elwend, -caused the fertile soil to yield the vegetable supply for -the capital city. The odor of flowers and fruits permeated -the air. The strong, spirited horse, glorying in -his strength and scarce feeling the weight of his rider, -galloped onward with long, even strides. No one interrupted -their progress. The cottagers, if partially -aroused by the rapid beat of hoofs and the barking of -dogs, sleepily muttered, “A King’s messenger!” turned -over on their pallets, and again slumbered.</p> - -<p>Adrapan lay on the southern slopes of Mount Elwend. -Here the snows, which annually fell over Hamadan, seldom -came; and, if they did, the southern exposure to -the sun caused them quickly to melt away. To the right -of the highway which passed westward through the -village was the palace, in a great park of noble trees.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_190">[190]</span> -On the left were several houses occupied by those who -made their livelihood trading with the thousands of -nobles and retainers who honored the King as his guests -or served him as retainers. Here caravans from Damascus -and the west coming by way of Nineveh, or from the -south, coming by way of Babylon and Susa, stopped to -enjoy the salubrious climate and recuperate after enduring -the hot districts along the Tigris and the difficult -roads across the Zagros Mountains. At this time the -palace and its park were in the care of keepers and -Adrapan was deserted, save by inn-keepers and traders.</p> - -<p>Athura sighed as she came in sight of the village. -She remembered the pleasant days when, a child, she -had wandered in the park with her father, or played -there with Bardya and the young Prince of Iran. How -long ago those days seemed! Her noble, erect, keen-eyed, -kind-hearted, and loving father; her joyous, laughter-loving, -and boisterous brother; and the tall youth, -whose calm demeanor, royal bearing, and worshipful -eyes were ever in her mind—all appeared in her memory. -Tears came into her eyes, and her lips trembled -with emotion. She brought her panting steed to a stop -within the deep shadows of the trees and halted a moment -to consider her course. If she should pass through -the village, she might be seen and accosted. If she -should enter the park, she would incur danger from wild -beasts which sometimes came down from the mountains. -Bears, wolves, a leopard, a tiger, and even a lion had -been seen in the park. She knew all the paths through -the woodland and that, by going a roundabout way, she -might avoid the palace and the village, but it would lead -through wild, dark places. Though she had fear of wild -beasts, she feared more to be overtaken by the pursuers -that her brother might send after her. She decided to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_191">[191]</span> -follow the dark paths of the forest and defy the dangers -from wild beasts. Turning her horse, she plunged -boldly into the woodland.</p> - -<p>The turf deadened the hoof-beats of the horse. No -sound was heard save the cry of an owl, the song of a -bulbul, and the chirp of insects. Gathering the bridle -reins in one hand, she drew the short sword from its -sheath at her belt with the other and carried it ready to -meet any danger that might assail her. Once she raised -the sword high towards heaven and prayed in a whisper, -“Thou, Ahura-Mazda, Good Spirit and Protector, send -Sraosha, victorious leader of the hosts of heaven, to -guard me from Angro-mainyus and the Devas!”</p> - -<p>She went slowly and warily. A dim light from the -declining moon and the stars enabled her to recognize the -pathways. Her horse, tossing his noble head and pricking -forward his slender ears, followed the paths with -certain step, unafraid of the sounds of the night. If a -bear or wolf, sniffing the breeze on the heights above, -became aware of their presence, it did not descend to -investigate, nor did any leopard, tiger, or lion molest -her. For an hour she slowly followed the devious ways, -but at length returned to the highway a parasang west of -the village. That she had acted wisely appeared on the -following day, when a squad of the King’s horsemen -rode into Adrapan and made inquiry. The villagers and -the palace watchmen swore that no one had passed -through during the preceding night, although careful -vigil had been maintained on account of a report that -a band of robbers had been seen in the neighboring -mountains.</p> - -<p>On the highway again, horse and rider, somewhat -rested by the leisurely progress through the woodland, -sped away westward at a gallop. The highway was<span class="pagenum" id="Page_192">[192]</span> -smooth for several miles, until it plunged into the defiles -of the Zagros Mountains, through which flowed the -headwater streams of the river Choaspes. Then it became -more difficult, with steep grades, crossing on stone -bridges over deep gorges, the beds of roaring streams, -and winding about steep bluffs and over sharp ridges. -Morning found the fugitive many miles from Hamadan -in the midst of mountains; and her weariness and that of -her steed warned her that she must find a resting-place. -Twice she fruitlessly turned from the road to follow -paths leading up narrow canyons, hoping to find a suitable -hiding-place. The third time she followed a narrow -pass leading into a small valley and there found a -sheepfold and a shepherd’s cabin. The shepherd and his -flock were in the hills, where the warm rays of the sun -and the waters of many springs kept the grass sweet and -tender.</p> - -<p>Finding the hut empty and no one near, Athura descended -stiffly from her horse and searched for food. -She found a large jar of barley in the hut and gave her -horse a generous feed from it. Then, having tied him -to a tree, she searched the cabin for food that she might -eat. The long ride had made her tired and faint. -Hunger reminded her that she had eaten nothing since -the previous noon. She opened cupboards and chests -and presently found a box in which the shepherd had -left a piece of roasted mutton and some round flat cakes -of bread, made of coarse barley flour. The fare satisfied -her hunger. Then she shut and barred the stout -cabin-door and threw herself upon a bundle of sheep-skins -which lay on the floor, and slept several hours. -When the day was half gone, after another hasty meal -she went on her way.</p> - -<p>The shepherd did not return till the shades of night<span class="pagenum" id="Page_193">[193]</span> -were falling. His surprise and indignation were great -when he found that some one had entered his cabin, -eaten his bread and meat, and taken some of his grain; -but he was delighted when he found lying in the bread-box -a gold piece. He tried the coin with his teeth and -excitedly turned it over and over in his palm. Then -he hid it safely in the earth at one corner of his hut.</p> - -<p>“Truly,” he muttered, “some god must have rested -here, or a spirit of the hills! But no, they would not -eat my food. May luck go with this patron of mine -forever!”</p> - -<p>It was after noon when Athura left the shepherd’s -hut and rode out of the canyon to the highway. She -turned her face westward and rode as rapidly as the -steep grades and dangerous passes would permit, anxiously -scanning every reach ahead lest she meet a caravan, -an inquisitive traveler, or a band of robbers. Outlaws -frequently attacked caravans in those days and places, -as they do yet. Travel except with guards or in large -companies was dangerous. Once as she rode past the -mouth of a canyon she observed several men sitting -around a camp-fire a hundred paces from the road. -When they observed her, they shouted and ran to their -horses, which were grazing near by them. She spoke -to her horse and urged him to greater speed. He responded -nobly. The hiss of an arrow passed over her -head. Her horse, as if realizing the need of haste, fled -with frightful speed. Once she looked back and saw -the pursuers; but, as they were mounted on small mountain -ponies, they were soon left far behind and gave -over the pursuit.</p> - -<p>With an occasional halt at the crest of ridges over -which the road passed, the fugitive pressed onward till -night fell. After stopping a short time to allow the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_194">[194]</span> -horse to graze and rest, she continued the flight during -the night hours. The brawling river along whose course -the way led filled the canyons with its murmur. The -cry of night birds and the howl of wolves sounded dismally -from the heights. Once her horse snorted and -sprang away at a rapid pace from the shadow of a -clump of bushes. At another time he shook his head -and dashed madly at several dark, slinking forms in the -road; these leaped aside from his charge, snarling and -chattering. It required all her will to restrain the fear -of unknown and unseen dangers of the darkness and -hills which gripped at her heart. She allowed her intelligent -horse to pick his own way, and he did not fail her.</p> - -<p>At midnight she emerged from the mountain gorges -and entered the little plain of Bagistan, where she halted -at the base of the celebrated rock of Behistun. She -recognized this great rock, on which was engraved in -huge letters the legend of Semiramis. As she looked up -at its bold, jagged skyline, she wondered whether the -time would ever come when she, like Semiramis, might -stand there the queen of the world. Years afterwards -she did stand there as queen of the world and watched -the workmen of her husband erase the story of Semiramis -and carve thereon a short history of his own exploits. -She dismounted and, standing by the side of her -horse, leaned wearily against him and meditated what -road to take. For here was a parting of the ways. To -her right, the road led to Nineveh, Damascus, and Sardis, -where she might find her Prince; to the left lay the -road to Susa and Persepolis. Should she go to the -Prince of Iran and thus plunge him into war with Cambyses, -or should she seek the protection of the lords of -Persia? It was a grave question, hard to solve, and she -almost wept because of her own indecision.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_195">[195]</span>“All hail and live forever, Princess Athura! Be not -afraid!” A voice came to her out of the darkness near -the great rock.</p> - -<p>Gasping with dismay, she sprang into the saddle and -was about to flee.</p> - -<p>“Be not afraid!” said the voice again, and the tone -was strangely familiar and reassuring.</p> - -<p>“Who speaks?” she demanded.</p> - -<p>“Your servant, Belteshazzer, the Hebrew, gracious -lady!”</p> - -<p>The voice recalled the days when she sat at the feet -of the great teacher and listened to his wisdom.</p> - -<p>“It must indeed be Belteshazzer!” she exclaimed, -with a sigh of relief. “None else could know me! -Now Ahura-Mazda be praised! How come you here?”</p> - -<p>A tall form emerged from the darker shadows and -drew near. “I came up from Susa in obedience to the -command of a spirit,” he said. “I knew not why I was -urged to come until I reached the shadow of this great -rock. Then I knew that I was sent to meet you here. -In the spirit I saw you coming. Do you remember the -lessons in the west tower of the palace at Hamadan, and -how the Hebrew was not easy for you to learn?”</p> - -<p>She remembered well this wonderful man, whose wisdom -was that of a god, whose eyes read the very -thoughts of men, and whose heart was pure and kind. -With a happy note in her voice she answered: “Truly, -Master, I am that unapt scholar in Hebrew! What joy -to meet you here! Truly God has guided you hither! -Now I may call upon your great wisdom to advise me -what to do. Approach nearer, I pray you!”</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer advanced to the side of the horse and, -bending over the fair hand she extended to him, touched -it with his forehead in reverence and affection.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_196">[196]</span>“I hold it great happiness to be of service to you,” -he said. “In the village near by is my caravan. I have -there a new tent with new furniture never used by any -other. It is at your service. There await your service -also two handmaidens of my own race, daughters of a -prince of my family, discreet and worthy of trust. I -have also many servants, all well-armed. My caravan -is large. Come and dwell with us until the years of -Cambyses shall be fulfilled. I know from what you have -fled. You shall be a princess of my people until these -troublous days are over. O Most Beloved of the Nations, -you may abide in my care until the time when your -Prince shall come to the throne! If you tire of the tent-life -with the caravan, my palace in Shushan, or my house -in Babylon, shall be yours.”</p> - -<p>“Is it best that I do not go to the Prince now?”</p> - -<p>“It is best that you do not. It would mean instant -war between him and Cambyses. The times are not -right for that. Neither should you go to the lords of -Persia. For Cambyses has already sent armed men out -on all the roads leading to Persepolis. Even now couriers -are not far behind you going to Susa with orders -to watch for and intercept you.”</p> - -<p>“I will be guided by you, O Prophet of God! Lead -the way and I will follow.”</p> - -<p>He led the way towards the village of Bagistan in the -valley below, and soon came to his caravan. He conducted -her to a beautiful tent furnished with all the -luxuries of tent-life. Two beautiful maidens were -brought to her.</p> - -<p>“My children,” said Belteshazzer to them, “behold -your mistress. She is one of the great ones of earth -and is worthy of all service. She shall be known to you -as the Princess Esther. It is enough for you to know<span class="pagenum" id="Page_197">[197]</span> -that she is one most highly favored of our God. You -must obey her slightest wish. Your training in the house -of Belteshazzer has fitted you to serve the greatest of -earth. Let your tongues never speak unto others what -you may see or hear concerning her. To all questions -say that she is a relative of Belteshazzer. For are we -not all descended from one common Father?”</p> - -<p>They fell on their knees before Athura, the strange, -beautiful one, whose face was that of a woman though -her garb was that of a man. Each, taking one of -Athura’s hands, placed it upon her head, saying in the -soft accents of the Syrian tongue: “We shall heed -your words, great Master. We are her servants.”</p> - -<p>Athura smiled upon the maidens and raising them up -impulsively kissed them, saying in the same language, -with which she was familiar: “Your service will be -light. You shall be my sisters and companions rather -than servants. The princesses of the house of Belteshazzer -are worthy to be friends of the highest born.”</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer then retired. From chests full of rich -garments, the maids quickly produced feminine apparel -and at once proceeded to bathe, dress, and perfume their -new mistress. Presently, under their ministrations, -Athura in all her matchless beauty and royal demeanor -stood before them like Deborah of old, a veritable -Hebrew princess.</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer traveled into Arabia, and the Princess -Esther went with him. No one imagined that the beautiful -young woman, to whom all naturally gave deference, -was the first Princess of the Empire.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_198">[198]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XIV<br /> - - -<small>THE WAR AGAINST EGYPT</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">THE Great King continued to prepare for war with -the Egyptians. There came to him a Greek -named Phanes, who at one time had been high in the -service of King Amasis of Egypt, but who, having conspired -against him, was compelled to flee. By flattery -and art he raised himself high in the estimation of -Cambyses and inflamed his mind with tales of the wealth -that would be found in the great temples of the Nile -Valley. The King then hastened his preparations and -sent him to raise levies amongst the Ionian Greeks. -The Greeks who remained in the service of the Egyptian -King so hated him because of his treachery that -they had made a blood covenant to kill him. But he -succeeded in recruiting a large body of his countrymen, -who marched with him and the Prince of Iran towards -Tyre.</p> - -<p>When spring opened, the vast array of men whom the -King had gathered from Iran, Assyria, and Babylonia, -marched by way of Damascus towards Tyre. Many -nations contributed troops. Wild mountaineers of the -Caucasus marched shoulder to shoulder with the -polished, slighter-built Babylonians. The light-armed -Getæ and Derbicæ rode with the heavy cavalry of the -Medes and Persians. From Bactra and Sogdiana came -a portion of the veteran army of King Hystaspis. -From the Zagros and Elburz mountains poured out the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_199">[199]</span> -fierce infantry of Aryan blood. Chariots, hundreds in -number, rumbled over the rough desert roads. Bowmen, -spearmen, slingers, and swordsmen, a half million -or more in all, rolled like a tide across the wastes. -The army under the Prince of Iran was composed for -the most part of veterans of many wars, inured to army -life and eager to follow their Prince to battle. Its -nucleus was the old Imperial Guard of Cyrus, recruited -to its full number of thirty thousand horsemen. The -remainder were fighters from the warlike peoples of his -satrapy—Lydians, Greeks, Scythians of the Black Sea -regions, Paphlagonians, Hebrews, and Syrians.</p> - -<p>It was springtime when the Great King, leaving -Patatheites, the Magian, as regent of the empire, departed -from his capital of Hamadan, accompanied by his -sister-wife, Artistone, and a portion of his harem. A -thousand servants marched with him to administer to -his comfort. He journeyed by easy stages to Damascus -and thence to Tyre.</p> - -<p>The city of Tyre, though nominally independent, had -been coerced into lending her fleets to the King of Kings. -Though it occupied a strong position on an island and -though its people carried on a great trade with Egypt, -yet when the veteran army of the Prince of Iran encamped -on the mainland opposite, and his demand came -in the name of the Great King that it should furnish a -fleet of vessels for his use, it hastened to comply.</p> - -<p>During the weeks that had passed since he had received -a copy of the decree of the King concerning the -marriage of Cambyses to his sisters, the Prince had -visibly aged. He had become taciturn and stern. A -smile seldom appeared upon his countenance. His -officers, who had known him for years, sympathized -with him but grumbled at his obstinacy in not declaring<span class="pagenum" id="Page_200">[200]</span> -war against Cambyses. They were ready for revolt. -Gobryas especially was discontented. He was bitter -towards the King because of the wreck of his hopes of -winning Artistone. He reported to the Prince the spirit -of revolt that pervaded the army and urged him repeatedly -to act; but the latter requested him to wait.</p> - -<p>When the Persian and Bactrian troops arrived, -having outmarched the King, who lingered at Damascus, -their leaders came to the Prince and offered their -services, if he would but consent to seize the government. -Letters arrived from Otanes, urging him to -seize Cambyses. To all he said, “Wait!” Couriers -came from his father counseling prudence and loyalty, -at least until it should certainly appear that the King -held Athura against her will. A mighty struggle went -on within him. Oath-bound loyalty to the King could -scarce restrain the wrath that fired his soul to action -against the hated tyrant.</p> - -<p>When the couriers arrived from Damascus saying -that the King was about to leave that city, the Prince -called them aside and inquired of them if they knew -whether the King was bringing his sisters with him. -They reported that he had with him Artistone, whom -he presented to all as his Queen; but as for Athura no -one knew where she was, though it was currently reported -that he had imprisoned her in his harem at -Hamadan. His own couriers and spies returned from -Hamadan without other information than rumors, some -of which indicated that Athura was dead, others that -she had escaped to Persia, and others that she was imprisoned -in the King’s harem.</p> - -<p>While he was in this state of indecision, resolved one -day to raise the standard of revolt and march against -Cambyses, and the next to remain loyal, at least till<span class="pagenum" id="Page_201">[201]</span> -he should know the truth concerning Athura’s fate, -Prexaspes, attended by a company of Medean cavalry, -rode into camp and requested an interview. The Prince -received him without delay, and alone in his tent. The -wily Mede, after due salutation, went straight to the -subject of his mission.</p> - -<p>“Great and illustrious Prince,” he said, as he stood -before the Prince of Iran, who looked upon him coldly -and suspiciously, “I have come on in advance of the -King with his permission. I have heard of the efforts -of the powerful ones to persuade you to revolt and I -know also that you believe you have just cause in the -act of the King with relation to his sisters. I have made -the Great King realize that he has committed the worst -blunder of his life and that upon your acts will not only -depend the result of this war but the continuance of his -empire. I call to your remembrance that the subject nations -are but waiting for the outbreak of civil war -amongst the Aryans to throw off the Aryan rule. -Should you revolt, every conquered nation would revolt; -and if you should succeed, you would have the world to -conquer over again. This you know as well as I. Is -it not so?”</p> - -<p>He paused. The Prince of Iran inclined his head in -assent.</p> - -<p>“Proceed with your message,” he said coldly.</p> - -<p>“This being so,” continued Prexaspes, “I deemed it -best to come hither and tell you the facts with relation -to the King’s brother and sister. I am reliably informed -that Prince Bardya is dead. He died at the hands of -mountain robbers. Of course I do not know this for certain. -As to the Princess Athura, she escaped the same -day that the King issued his decree, a copy of which I -sent to you. He never consummated his marriage with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_202">[202]</span> -her. I know that she escaped, because the King suspected -that I had aided her. As to whether I did aid -her or not, I say nothing, except that I rejoiced when -I heard it—not openly, for I apparently made every -exertion to find her. Now the King was advised to -marry his sisters by a certain Magian prophet who predicted -that a son of his sister should sit on the throne -after him. The King is impulsive and acted without -advising with me. But having married Artistone, he is -satisfied that he has complied with the prophet’s prediction; -and in order that you may know his good-will -towards you he has made a second decree, declaring that -Athura is free from wedlock with him and granting -her leave to marry whom she will. This am I directed -to place in your hand upon being satisfied that you are -firm in adherence to your oath taken to Cyrus and will -state that you will remain loyal to the King. The King -also confirms you in the office of chief commander of -this army under him. I assure you, Great Prince, that -the King is sincere, though, I frankly state, it is because -he knows that one word from you or any injury to you -would be the signal for the rebellion of all Iran save perhaps -Medea.”</p> - -<p>He paused. The Prince stood in silence a moment -gazing at the floor, considering the King’s message.</p> - -<p>“Will the King give me his statement as King that he -has not done injury to Athura?” he then demanded.</p> - -<p>“Not only that, but he has stated in this his decree -that the marriage never has been consummated. -Furthermore I know all that happened from a private -examination of the servants who saw the King when he -went to the Princesses to announce his will to them,—how -he fled from Athura’s dagger; how he set watches -at her bedroom door; how there stood open the lattice<span class="pagenum" id="Page_203">[203]</span> -of a closet-window connected with the bedroom by -which she escaped; and how, afterwards, the rope ladder -by which she passed over the walls was found; -and it is even known how she purchased a horse which -later was found near Bagistan. She rode away on it -disguised as a youth. There she disappeared.”</p> - -<p>The Prince started and smiled slightly when Prexaspes -mentioned the hinged lattice in the closet-window. -He had heard from Athura of this means of -egress before. He asked eagerly, “No further trace of -her has been found?”</p> - -<p>“No. But the King thinks she has fled to you or to -Persia.”</p> - -<p>The Prince did not answer this suggestion but held -his hand out for the decrees, saying: “Assure the King -that I accept his decree and will loyally support him. -But let him not again, I implore, place me in so grave -a position, lest I forget my vow to the great Cyrus!” -He took the decrees from the hand of Prexaspes, who -bowed low and backed from the tent with a second low -salaam.</p> - -<p>So it came about that Cambyses feared not to come -on to Tyre and that the army, duly marshaled in massive -lines, received the Great King with honor. The -Prince of Iran, accompanied by Hydarnes of the foot -soldiers, Vomisces of the cavalry, and a hundred other -Persian officers, greeted the King at the limits of the -camp and followed him as he rode slowly between the -lines of soldiers to his pavilion. The soldiers knelt as -he passed, shuddering or wondering as they saw the -bloated red face and cold, glittering eyes of their ruler. -When they saw the Prince of Iran riding near his right -hand in the place of honor, they were pleased and broke -forth in acclamations, which the Great King thought<span class="pagenum" id="Page_204">[204]</span> -were given to him. But his countenance gave no indication -of his emotions, and his greetings to his officers -were slight and cold.</p> - -<p>No sooner had the King entered his pavilion and called -for wine than Prexaspes, who had personal charge of -the King’s household, entered, and, having bent his knee, -requested leave to speak. The King said impatiently:</p> - -<p>“Well, speak! Undoubtedly you come to preach policy -again! I liked not the dark looks of those cursed -Persians! I have a mind to send some of those officers -a bowstring!”</p> - -<p>“Having your gracious leave, O King, I will speak -plainly,” said Prexaspes, boldly. “Does not my welfare -depend solely upon your favor? Believe that I -speak, therefore, for your best interests. There was -grave trouble brewing amongst those Persians. The -favor you have shown to the Magi and your marriage -with your sister, against which, you know, I most -strongly advised, and the grave insult thereby inflicted -upon the Prince of Iran, have stirred in them the spirit -of revolt. I have trembled, O King! My spies have -kept me well informed. There stands between you and -destruction at this moment the word of one man, and -that one is the Prince of Iran! Order me stricken -dead, if you will, O King, for speaking so boldly; but -I tell you the truth! I swear by all the gods, I speak -the truth!”</p> - -<p>The King’s face was dark with wrath, but he realized -the force of his adviser’s words. He gulped down -a great cup of wine, threw the cup upon the floor, and -passed a trembling hand over his face.</p> - -<p>“You may speak truth, Prexaspes,” he admitted. -“But how about the Medes and the other levies, are -they not faithful? They outnumber the Persians and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_205">[205]</span> -Bactrians. Besides, have I not stultified myself already -by your advice and placated that same Prince of Iran?”</p> - -<p>“The Medes may be depended upon, but none others. -It is true we have placated the Prince of Iran. But -with your permission I will offer further advice.”</p> - -<p>“Say on!”</p> - -<p>“I advise that you send for the Prince of Iran and -personally greet him with your royal hand and assure -him of your favor as King. Thus will you fasten him -to your cause and satisfy the Aryans, by whose power -alone you may hope to prosecute this war successfully.”</p> - -<p>The King broke forth in a torrent of curses and imprecations. -It was a bitter tonic that Prexaspes had -prescribed. He hated the Prince of Iran with the hatred -of jealousy and fear. He ended his explosion by saying:</p> - -<p>“But the day will come when I shall surely slay -that man! Now, indeed, I see that I must dissemble. -Press me not too far on this path, Prexaspes, lest I slay -you! Go then and command him to come here. I will -dissemble. I will be as wise as a serpent—for a -time!”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes bowed low and backed from the royal presence. -He sent a messenger to the Prince of Iran, who -came at once.</p> - -<p>The Prince was pale but composed. He bowed low -over the King’s extended hand, saying: “I am here -at the King’s command. Let it please the King to command.”</p> - -<p>The King glowered sullenly upon the Prince, but endeavored -to infuse into his tones a note of cordiality, -as he said: “Prince Hystaspis, I have trusted you -greatly, though, as you well know, no love has ever -been between us. I hear that there has been much treasonable -talk in this army.”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_206">[206]</span>“I know there is much dissatisfaction, O King!” answered -the Prince. “But it cannot be said to be treasonable. -The people of Iran like not the power and -place given to the fire-worshipers of the hills. The -Persians, who occupied the chief places under King Cyrus, -are grieved that they have not found favor with his -son.”</p> - -<p>“We will show these proud slaves who grumble, that -the King of Kings brooks no interference!” exclaimed -the King, his anger blazing forth for an instant. “Prexaspes -has given you my decree concerning Athura. You -may rest assured that she and you may marry safely. -Where is she? Of all men, you should know.”</p> - -<p>The Prince was surprised at this question, and the -manner of the King. Evidently Cambyses was endeavoring -to restrain his passions and speak pleasantly to -him.</p> - -<p>“I have not seen the royal lady since I bade her -farewell at Persepolis and took with me her pledge to -marry me,” he answered. “Neither have I had a letter -from her since the day when it pleased you to make -a new law that the King might marry his sisters. Nor -have I heard what has become of her, save that I did -hear rumors that she had escaped or had been slain by -your orders.”</p> - -<p>“The report that Athura is dead is not true!” said -Cambyses. “She fled from the palace the day my decree -was made and keeps well hidden, though my slaves -have searched the world for her. Find her and marry -her, if you will! You have my consent. Let that subject -be forgotten between us. Is this army ready to -march?”</p> - -<p>“It is ready.”</p> - -<p>“Then let the march begin on the morrow. The insults<span class="pagenum" id="Page_207">[207]</span> -we have received from Egypt’s King must be -avenged and that country added to our empire. It is -said to be very rich. I am weary with the day’s journey -and will rest. Give such orders as you deem necessary. -Cambyses, the King of Kings, remembers not the -former days. My trust and favor I give to you; and -my consent to your marriage with Athura shall not be -withdrawn.”</p> - -<p>He turned away, and the Prince with a salute left -the pavilion. It seemed to the latter that the sky had -taken on a new glory and that the golden rays of the -setting sun were indicative of joy. A load had been -lifted from his heart. Athura had escaped a miserable -fate and must be still alive. One so resourceful as she -would know how to save herself. It mattered little -that Cambyses hated him. His duty demanded faithful -service to the King and his oath to the Great King -would remain unbroken. He called together his -friends among the officers and briefly informed them that -all present cause for dissatisfaction had been removed -and that he expected of them loyal service to the King.</p> - -<p>On the next day the great army slowly uncoiled its -vast length and moved down the narrow coast-line of -Canaan, bearing woe to ancient Egypt.</p> - -<p>Egypt was ill-prepared for war. From the time that -Cyrus had reduced all Syria, including Canaan, to subjection, -the Egyptian King, Amasis, had known that a -conflict with the new world-power would come. He -had heard of the preparations for war made by Cambyses -and had endeavored to make ready. But Egypt had long -since lost its ancient vigor. Its people had become rich -and indolent. They loved not war. They depended -mainly upon foreign auxiliaries hired by their money -for their defense. Thirty thousand Greeks and many<span class="pagenum" id="Page_208">[208]</span> -thousand adventurers from other lands formed the main -strength of the Egyptian army. Levies drawn from an -agricultural and trading people among the Egyptians -themselves were neither practiced in war nor enthusiastic -in the service and made poor soldiers. They -were brave and many in number, but they knew little -discipline. They could not stand before the fearful rush -of the Persian cavalry or the tiger-like ferocity of the -Aryan infantry. They outnumbered the army of Cambyses, -but their very numbers were a source of weakness -because of their lack of discipline.</p> - -<p>Just as the war was beginning, old King Amasis had -died, leaving his throne to a youth named Psammenitus, -who had not the skill himself nor good generals to lead -his army. But he marched forth and took position in -the desert near Pelusium, with the left of his line of -battle resting on the Great Sea and its right protecting -the water-wells and barring the main caravan road to -Egypt, determined to strike one blow in defense of his -kingdom. His Greeks were placed on the left, supported -by Cretan slingers. The center was held by -stout Ethiopian infantry, black men of ferocious courage, -armed with javelins and swords, terrible in close -contest. Behind them was a mass of Egyptians. On -the right, where the plain was more level, there were -two hundred chariots supported by a mass of irregular -cavalry, principally Arabs, armed with scimiters and -long, slender spears.</p> - -<p>The Prince of Iran led the Aryan host with his thirty -thousand horsemen of the Guard, driving back the Arab -cavalry which came out to harass his advance, until the -position and extent of the Egyptian army were disclosed. -From the crest of a sand-dune near the sea, -he carefully surveyed the position occupied by Psammenitus.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_209">[209]</span> -It was the afternoon of a cloudless day. At -his right glistened the sea, its oily waves scarce rippling -on the shores. At his left and rear, the mountains of -Palestine were a dim cloud on the horizon. Before him -was a vast plain, gray and brown with dust and sand, -where the opposing army was making ready for battle. -He noted the orderly Greeks, the dark array of Ethiopians, -and the wheeling, clattering chariots, taking their -appointed places. The Prince was accompanied by -Gobryas and several of his chief captains, who stood -near with the light of battle in their eyes and joy in their -hearts. For the long, hot marches would end here in -victory. They did not dream of defeat.</p> - -<p>The Prince soon formed his plan of battle. He directed -the Guard to take a position in a long line, with -its right resting at the sand-dune and its left thrown -back in a wide curve so as to protect the approaching -infantry from attacks of the Arabs.</p> - -<p>“Let all our forces be brought up to-night and placed -in position. Let them sleep on their arms and be ready -to attack at daylight. The wells of water are in possession -of the enemy and we must have them to-morrow -or die of thirst. Here must we conquer or die. If we -lose the battle, every tribe in Syria and Armenia will -revolt and attempt to cut us off from retreat to our -homes,” said the Prince, turning to his officers after a -long survey of the field.</p> - -<p>He then gave orders for placing the troops. As the -sun went down, his dusty battalions were taking their -appointed positions behind the long line of cavalry. He -placed the Persian and Medean infantry opposite the -Greeks, with its right resting on the sea. In the center -were the allied races, principally footmen. On the left -were the war-chariots, opposing the chariots of the enemy.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_210">[210]</span> -Then the cavalry was withdrawn to the rear and -massed behind the extreme left. Imitating the tactics -of the Great Cyrus in his last battle, he intended to -make a détour to the left with the cavalry, assail the extreme -end of the enemy’s right, and roll it back to the -sea. The pack-train, camp equipage, and the King’s -pavilion were placed in the rear near the sea and enclosed -within a palisade of stakes driven into the earth. -But the King, as became a Persian warrior, bivouacked -with the soldiers, having taken his station on the sand-dunes -at the right, where he could see the field of battle.</p> - -<p>Night fell upon the opposing hosts, and midnight arrived -before the final dispositions were made. Videttes -and sentinels were duly stationed, and the tired soldiers -lay down on their arms to snatch a few hours of rest. -The Prince of Iran was about to lie down on the sand -in the midst of his guard when a slave, clad in the livery -of the King, came and prayed leave to speak with him. -Bidden to speak, he said: “My gracious mistress, the -Queen, requests you to come to her if it be possible. -I am directed to guide you.”</p> - -<p>The Prince hesitated. He knew that Artistone, the -younger of the King’s sisters, was referred to as the -Queen. It was the privilege of the noble Persians and -their wives to visit each other; but the King had introduced -the customs of the seraglio, the separate harem, -the veiled faces, and the seclusion of wives. The slave, -noticing his hesitation, continued: “The King is not in -his pavilion and the Queen will meet you in the tent -of her slaves. She greatly desires you to come. She -would speak of the Princess Athura.”</p> - -<p>The Prince no longer hesitated. He drew Gobryas -to one side and informed him of his design. Then,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_211">[211]</span> -throwing a rough cloak about his shoulders, as a disguise, -he motioned the servant to proceed, and followed -him. They entered the palisadoed camp and went to -a tent near the King’s pavilion. The slave watched -outside while the Prince went in and met the child-wife -of the King.</p> - -<p>The interior of the tent was dimly lighted by a lamp -burning perfumed oil. At one side was a low couch, -and, reclining thereon, was Artistone. He bent his knee -before her and kissed the slender white hand she held -out to him.</p> - -<p>“Greeting, Prince and brother!” said she. “How -I have longed to see some one I do not fear! This -camp is full of spies, placed by the King to watch me and -the other women he has brought with him. Only in -this one slave who brought you hither and in two maidens -who dress me, have I any confidence. How good it -is to see your face!”</p> - -<p>“It gives me great delight, little sister, to come at -your bidding. How may I serve you?” he returned.</p> - -<p>“I hear that a great battle is about to take place. Is -it true?”</p> - -<p>“It is. But have no fear of the result. We shall -scatter the enemy like sand before a desert wind.”</p> - -<p>“I have no fear. I would go out and watch the battle -if I were permitted. Know you aught of Athura?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing, except that the King said she had escaped. -Can you tell me of her?”</p> - -<p>Tears filled the Queen’s eyes and wet her cheeks. -“Alas!” she said, “I fear she is dead. She locked -herself in her room after attempting to stab the King -with her dagger when he came and announced to us -his decree of marriage. The palace-guards were set -to watch at the door. I was taken away and never saw<span class="pagenum" id="Page_212">[212]</span> -her more. Sometimes, when the King is savage and -drunken or is displeased and desires to cause me grief, -he says that he had her tortured to death. But at other -times he says that she escaped. I hoped that she had -communicated with you. Surely she must be dead or she -would have done so!”</p> - -<p>“She attempted to slay him?”</p> - -<p>“Yes. Her fury was terrible. The King would -have been killed had he not fled. He came to our sitting-room, -the room in the palace where we so often -played when we were children, and announced that he -would make us his wives. After some words, Athura -drew a dagger and sprang upon him. He leaped back -out of the room and ran. He shouted to the guards. -They came. She retreated to her bedroom and barred -the door. Then the King dragged me away and—I -am the most unhappy woman living! Ah! how often -I think of those pleasant days of our childhood when -our mother loved and played with us and our father -smiled upon us so graciously! Do you not remember -them? Will happiness never return to me again? -Should I die by my own hand as I am tempted?”</p> - -<p>The Prince was deeply affected. His voice shook -with emotion, as he answered: “Child, it may be the -day of deliverance will come, perhaps to-morrow. Who -knows? I know not what to advise. Death is but a -step into a better existence. Did not Zoroaster, the divine, -so teach? What said Belteshazzer, the Hebrew? -He, the wisest of men, who talks with spirits, who reads -all dreams and riddles, who prophesies of the future—he -says that death is a blessed relief, in that we drop -a body which suffers and is weak, while the spirit life -is one of great glory and peace. I do not advise death. -I do not think Athura is dead. It may be she has gone<span class="pagenum" id="Page_213">[213]</span> -to Prince Bardya or to my father in Bactra. It is a -long way to Bactra, and it has been difficult to send -messengers. There are many reasons why she should -not communicate.”</p> - -<p>Artistone shuddered and leaned nearer to him as she -whispered in a frightened manner: “But she could -not go to Bardya! I am sure that the King has murdered -him. Oh, I saw him as one slain! On the night -of the farewell feast, long after he had left the room, -the Magi were performing wonders and producing specters -and awful forms. At the last there came the pale -face of Bardya, floating in the air above them, fierce, -blood-stained, with a horrible wound in the forehead -as if made by a sword! I have heard the King mutter -in his sleep, as he lay half-drunken in the night, about -the murder of Bardya. He talks in his sleep and sees -fearful visions! He wakes trembling and shrieking -with fear. Ah, my brother, I know that Bardya is -dead!”</p> - -<p>The Prince believed her and smote his knee with his -clenched fist, as he exclaimed: “The day will come -when the devil-worshipers, with their black lies and -conjuring, will be put down with a mighty hand! And -thou,” he cried, raising his face and one hand to heaven, -“O Ahura-Mazda, the only God, grant to me the opportunity -to avenge the death of Bardya, to avenge the -insults to your altars, upon that whole evil caste; and -I will declare your glory upon all the hills!”</p> - -<p>“May your prayer be granted!” said the Queen, fervently. -“How the world would be blessed if some day -you should lead the hosts of truth against these evil -and idolatrous men! The nations would rejoice if you -were monarch of the world instead of this monster!”</p> - -<p>“Hush!” warned the Prince. “My oath will permit<span class="pagenum" id="Page_214">[214]</span> -no such thoughts, and it is not wise that you should -thus speak. But I must now leave you. Is there anything -I can do for you?”</p> - -<p>“No, my brother. I desire you not to think evil of -me. I am not gifted with the will of Athura. I have -elected to suffer awhile in patience my strange and unnatural -position as wife of the King. Sister and wife! -Such I have heard is the evil custom of the Egyptians, -who, it is said by Phanes, the Greek, even married their -own mothers as well as their sisters, in order that their -royal race might not mingle with a less royal! Have -great care, my brother! The King would slay you if he -dared. He is jealous of you.”</p> - -<p>The Prince arose and stood looking down in great -pity at the childish, careworn face of Artistone.</p> - -<p>“I do not fear the King,” he said. “I am guarded -by a powerful spirit who will not permit harm to come -to me. I do not serve Cambyses, but, rather, the King -of Kings and the Aryan race. I shall go into battle, -rejoicing to fight for my people. I hope the day may -soon come when I may aid in crushing those liars who -are destroying true religion and leading Cambyses astray. -But now I must go. Should need come, send for me.”</p> - -<p>He turned to leave; but she asked, while a faint color -suffused her pale cheeks: “What of the noble Gobryas? -Is he well and—happy?”</p> - -<p>“He is well, but he is not happy. Gobryas has been -much pained by the action of the King in forcing you -into this unnatural marriage. May I say to him that -you remember him kindly?”</p> - -<p>“Yes. Tell him that it will please me more than all -else, if he shall acquit himself well in the battle, and -that he must not too greatly endanger his life. We -know not what the future has in store. Farewell,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_215">[215]</span> -brother! May Sraosha place his buckler before you on -the morrow!”</p> - -<p>The Prince departed quietly. The child-queen buried -her face in her arms and wept bitterly.</p> - -<p>At the first gray light of morn the Prince and several -officers rode swiftly along the front of the army. As -they passed, the soldiers sprang up and shouted, clashing -their arms upon their shields and demanding to be -led to battle. He paused here and there to utter words -of direction and advice to the officers. To the center -he said: “You must move slowly forward and hold -all the ground you gain until you see the cavalry charging -the right of the enemy. Then go forward with a -rush.” To the general of the right wing he said: -“Stand fast here on the sand-dunes and attack not those -Greeks until you see the cavalry charging the Egyptian -right. Then go forward and quit you like men. For -those Greeks are brave warriors.”</p> - -<p>He paused before the King, who sat on a rude throne -placed upon the summit of a hillock of sand from which -he could view the battle. “Live forever, O King!” he -said, saluting. “When it pleases you to order the battle -joined, we are ready.”</p> - -<p>The King glowered at him sullenly. He was sore and -ill-natured after his night on the ground. “See to it -that you win this battle for me, or death shall be your -portion!” he said. “Let no quarter be given to those -dogs yonder, who by their impudence have brought on -them my wrath and have caused me weariness in sleeping -out here beneath the stars!”</p> - -<p>“I hear your words,” replied the Prince, coldly. -“Rest assured that we shall win this battle or we shall -welcome death.”</p> - -<p>“Enough!” exclaimed the King. “Join battle when<span class="pagenum" id="Page_216">[216]</span> -you please! I have no appetite for talk. I have sent -for wine and will drink while you slay yonder reptile-worshipers. -I do not see their godlike calf at the front. -Have a care of his horns!” The King laughed at his -own wit.</p> - -<p>Again saluting, the Prince turned his horse and galloped -off, followed by his staff. He saw that the enemy -was also making ready for battle, and he forgot the -King in the fierce joy of conflict. Placing himself at -the head of his cavalry, he gave the signal for advance.</p> - -<p>Two hundred chariots sprang forward, and the long -lines of infantry moved. From the other side opposing -chariots dashed out and, in a moment, the crash of -colliding wheels and the shouts and screams of combatants -arose. The Persian cavalry rode at a brisk trot out -to the left and by a wide circuit came in upon the right -flank and rear of the Egyptians, scattering the Arabs -who vainly sought to oppose. Along the whole front, -two miles or more in extent, the battle was joined. The -sky was filled with darts. The sun, springing up from -the east, flashed upon sword and spear and upon struggling -men who stabbed and slashed and reviled and -cursed each other. The Aryan right as ordered stood -still. But the Greeks of the opposing line came forward -to the assault, like a moving wall prickly with spears, -their fair, eager faces ablaze with the light of battle; -and as they came on they shouted to Phanes daring him -to come and meet them whom he had betrayed. Slingers -and archers pelted them as they advanced; but, -partially covered by their big, round shields, they did -not halt. The Persian and Medean infantry was not -terrified, but prayed the captains for leave to charge. -The presence of the King, in whose sight they must do -or die, nerved the Aryan soldier for the contest. When<span class="pagenum" id="Page_217">[217]</span> -the Greeks arrived at the base of the sand-dunes, the -King, disregarding the orders of the Prince of Iran, -directed his infantry to charge, and the men sprang -forward and down upon the Greeks with spears at rest. -Then was shown the splendid discipline of these mercenaries -of Psammenitus. They met the living wall of -men rolling down upon them with firm, up-thrusting -spears. The shock was terrific. The lines swayed -back and forth. The longer spears of the Greeks gave -them the advantage. Unable to reach their enemies, the -Persians impotently struggled against the iron hedge -and were thrust back. Cambyses observed the contest -with alarm. He sent in his own body-guard to aid the -hard-pressed infantry. But the Greeks moved steadily -onward. Their phalanx could not be pierced. They -seemed invincible. They surmounted the hills. But -here the uneven ground broke their formation somewhat -and enabled the Persians to press in and come to -close quarters.</p> - -<p>Cambyses was no coward. He stayed with his guard, -but he began to cast about for aid. He saw the long, -swaying lines of men to his left, where the allies fought -with the fierce Ethiopians. He observed the mixed and -tangled wreckage of struggling horses and men where -the chariots had met. Looking beyond, he saw the -dense mass of Persian cavalry, led by the Prince of -Iran in person, on a magnificent white horse, wheeling -about upon the rear and right flank of the Egyptians, -driving back a cloud of Arabs. He watched the cavalry -come thundering down upon the rear of the enemy, -bringing terror and confusion. Psammenitus, who was -mounted on a fleet dromedary, also saw the coming -destruction and, terrified, fled from the field at full -speed. The Ethiopians, trodden down and overthrown<span class="pagenum" id="Page_218">[218]</span> -by the heavy Persian horse, lost courage and quickly -became a mob. The savage allies of the Persian line -hewed them down without mercy. In a very short space -of time none but the Greeks were left to present any -resistance. Their captains, seeing that the battle was -lost, ceased the forward movement and sought to form -their ranks in a square. Surrender was not considered, -for the hated Phanes was with the enemy. But because -of the inequalities of the ground, they were not able to -form before the Prince’s cavalry rode in upon them, -broke through their wavering lines, smote them with -maces, hewed them with swords, and stabbed them with -javelins, until few were left. They stood their ground -to the last and, in death, nobly redeemed their oaths to -Psammenitus. So, in vast slaughter, the army of the -Egyptian King disappeared, and with it fell Egypt.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_219">[219]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XV<br /> - - -<small>THE MADNESS OF CAMBYSES</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">THE King of Egypt fled on his swift dromedary, -while the men who had marched with him to battle -gave up their lives in his behalf and a red riot of slaughter -stained the desert sands. The Persian cavalry, now -unhindered by any organized resistance, carried death -to the despairing, panting fugitives who fled from the -contest. The Egyptian army was annihilated. Barely -did the King himself enter his city of Memphis and -close its gates ere the Prince of Iran, at the head of a -picked body of men on horses almost spent with rapid -going, appeared and demanded his surrender. The vast -array of invaders soon spread over the fertile valley -of Egypt and shut the king so closely within his city-walls -that no succor could enter and only hope could -flee. Psammenitus, unable to face a hero’s death, -bowed to the power of the King of Kings, surrendered -into his hands his crown, and acknowledged him as lord. -He took his place with other captive kings at the table -of his master and ate in bitterness of spirit the bread of -peace.</p> - -<p>Victory having come to him easily, Cambyses became -puffed up and arrogated to himself divine attributes. -Secretly his heart was eaten with envy of the Prince -of Iran, the idol of the army, to whom all men attributed -the great victory. As a result, the king openly slighted -the Prince, relieved him of the general command, placed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_220">[220]</span> -other officers near his own person and through them -issued his orders. Leaving barely enough troops to garrison -lower Egypt, Cambyses himself led a great army -southward into Ethiopia; but, as he had failed to take -into account the vast deserts through which he had to -pass to reach that region, his army soon came to want -and starvation, and half of the soldiers composing it -died of disease and privation. Had not the Prince of -Iran asserted his prerogatives, assumed command of -the garrisons of Egypt, and gathered a great caravan -which he sent to the King’s relief, the remainder of the -ill-fated army would have perished. Undeterred by this -experience, the King sent a second expedition against -the people of the oasis of Ammon and the priests of its -great temple; but the whole army perished in a mighty -sand-storm. He contemplated a third expedition for -the reduction of Carthage and the northern littoral of -Africa; but it failed because the Phœnicians refused to -give the aid of their fleets against their kindred.</p> - -<p>All of these events consumed much time. Meanwhile -in Egypt the King of Kings ruled with an iron hand. -He looked with suspicion upon everybody. Knowing -that he was loved by none, he filled his court with spies -that he might detect any who would dare even to whisper -against him. He blotted out in the blood of Psammenitus -and his relatives an incipient revolt of the -Egyptians, who, encouraged by the vast misfortunes that -had befallen the army of their conqueror, dared to dream -of liberty. He derided the Egyptian gods, closed their -temples and made granaries of them, and slew the sacred -bull, Apis, with his own sword. His jealousy led -him to murder many of his own officers. Some of the -most valiant men of the army upon slight pretext were -arrested and executed summarily; others were found -dead from the stabs of hired assassins.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_221">[221]</span>The Prince of Iran now habitually wore a coat of -mail beneath his tunic, and to it he owed safety twice -from the weapons of assassins. Once in the night, as -he walked alone in the garden of the palace occupied -by him as headquarters, a man leaped upon him and -drove a javelin into his back, almost hurling him to the -earth, but, owing to the mail, only bruising him. The -assassin escaped. An arrow, shot from the shadow of -a deserted temple as he rode by, slightly wounded his -left arm and rebounded from the mail on his body. -Again the assassin escaped. Thereafter Gobryas and -other officers insisted that the Prince keep a powerful -body-guard around him; and the King, having been informed -of the attempts on his life, could not reasonably -object.</p> - -<p>One day shortly after King Cambyses had departed -on his expedition against Ethiopia, the Prince walked -alone in the garden surrounding his dwelling in Memphis, -examining with much interest the flowers and -shrubs growing there. He had no duties to perform. -Others administered the civil offices. Five thousand only -of his own troopers were in the city under his command; -and except to watch them drill and see that they were -fed, he had nothing to do. His thoughts were of Athura -and of the many messengers he had dispatched to the -east in search of her. Presently as he drew near to the -street-gate, he noticed a beggar sitting by the gate apparently -resting and asleep. He glanced at the man, -whose countenance was that of a Hebrew, and was about -to turn away, when the beggar opened his eyes and at -once prostrated himself with his face in the dust.</p> - -<p>“Live forever, O friend of God!” said the beggar. -“Do I indeed behold the mighty Prince of Iran?” He -spoke in the Medean dialect.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_222">[222]</span>The Prince answered: “You have said who I am. -What do you wish?”</p> - -<p>“I bear a message.”</p> - -<p>“Arise and deliver it.”</p> - -<p>The man arose and, taking from his tunic a small -packet, delivered it to the Prince, at the same time ejaculating -with a deep sigh of relief: “Praise be to the God -of Abraham! I have kept my word to the Prophet!”</p> - -<p>The Prince tore off the wrappings and unfolded a -sheet of papyrus, on which was written in a hand he well -knew:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> -<p>“<i>To my beloved, the Prince of my Soul, greeting</i>:</p> - -<p>“The bearer of this letter is to be trusted even as his -master, the one who met you on the banks of the Choaspes -and showed you the spirit of your ancestor, is to be -trusted. He will tell you many things of me. He cannot -tell how much I long to be with you or how my -heart is sick with anxiety for your safety. How long -are the days! How lonely the nights! But lest the one -whose shadow darkens the world should pursue me or -injure you, I have long kept silence. Now I must hear -from you. I have promised the messenger great rewards -and I know that you will make good my promises. Send -him back to me quickly, for my soul is exceedingly weary -and sick with waiting for word from you. Farewell, beloved!”</p> -</div> - - -<p>The missive was unsigned, but the Prince knew from -whom it came. His heart leaped with such joy that he -became dizzy and he staggered like a drunken man. Recovering -his usual calm demeanor with a mighty effort, he -said: “Though in the guise of a beggar you come, son -of Abraham, yet do you appear to me as an angel of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_223">[223]</span> -light, bringing joy to my soul such as I have not felt for -many sad days! Know you the writer of this? Have -you seen her lately? How is she? Speak, man! Great -shall be your reward!”</p> - -<p>The man’s face shone with joy. The gladness he had -brought to this great one of earth was infectious. He -arose and stood in humble attitude.</p> - -<p>“Great Lord,” he said. “I have not seen this star -of the morning for three months, having come hither -by a long journey; but, when mine eyes looked upon her -as I started to come hither, they were blinded by the -light of her eyes and I shaded them before the majesty -of her countenance. Like a rose of Sharon is she! Like -a cedar on Lebanon stands she, strong and beautiful! -The music of her voice is as the song of many waters -and loveliness enshrouds her as the darkness enshrouds -the moon! Behold, are not all men her slaves? They -upon whom she deigns to smile would cast themselves to -the lions if she commanded, or would fall upon their own -swords if she wished. She is well, but she is not happy; -for she speaks much of my lord, the Prince of Iran, and -sighs because she sees him not.”</p> - -<p>“Where is she?”</p> - -<p>“She is with the prophet of God, the great Daniel, -known to you as Belteshazzer, in an oasis of the desert -of Arabia. The sons of the desert are kindred to the -prophet and they dwell happily and safely together. -None except I and her two maids know who the royal -maiden is. Most happy am I to enjoy the trust of the -great master!”</p> - -<p>“Then she escaped, indeed! O thou glorious life-giving -Spirit, Ahura-Mazda, I thank thee!”</p> - -<p>The Prince raised his eyes to the blue vault of heaven -and removed the helmet from his head. The Hebrew<span class="pagenum" id="Page_224">[224]</span> -watched him sympathetically; then, as the Prince turned -to him again, he said, “Yes, Great Lord, she escaped -from the palace at night and rode on a horse to the rock -known as Behistun on the road to Susa. There my master, -moved by the spirit, met her and took her with him -into the desert ten days’ journey west of Babylon, where -in all honor and safety they have kept her. I am requested -to bear to her again a message from you, if it -please you to give me one. Her message was unsigned -and bore no words by which its meaning would be known, -had I fallen into the hands of the King. But I can discourse -to you of her. The prophet sends to you greeting, -with words of good cheer. He bids me say that the -times and seasons are changing rapidly and that great -events will happen presently, in which you will have -large part.”</p> - -<p>“Come, then, into my house, servant of Belteshazzer!” -said the Prince. “You shall have great rewards. You -shall be fed and clothed and be given riches beyond your -dreams. We will spend the remainder of this day in converse -of her and of her great protector.”</p> - -<p>The Prince led the way into his dwelling, and there -his servants hurried to bathe and dress the messenger -and to set before him victual and drink. And while he -ate, his royal host sat near, plying him with questions. -It was a great day in the life of Eleazer, the scribe, servant -and confidential friend of Belteshazzer, the prophet -of God. In the years to follow, when his host had become -the mighty King of Kings, he never tired of relating -this interview to his sons and to his son’s sons, -and how the gracious Prince had talked familiarly with -him as with a friend.</p> - -<p>Three days later, escorted by a strong body of Persian -cavalry, he returned by way of Damascus to Babylon,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_225">[225]</span> -loaded with riches. At Babylon he left his escort, resumed -his disguise, and went into the desert, bearing -with him a message from the Prince of Iran to Athura. -This related the giving of the King’s consent to their -marriage and advised her that it would be safe for her -to go to Persepolis and there dwell in seclusion with his -mother, under the guardianship of King Hystaspis, who -had returned there, until the close of the present campaign. -Then he would come and marry her, and thereafter -defy Cambyses.</p> - -<p>Weary of the tent-life of the desert, she prevailed upon -Belteshazzer to go with her to Persepolis. Here he and -the philosophical King of Iran spent many happy days in -study and learned dispute, while she, protected from -danger by a strong guard of the King’s own men, resided -in comfort and safety, waiting with patience the -coming of her chosen one.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile the King of Kings, having suffered the severe -reverses of fortune before mentioned, had abandoned -himself to drunkenness and debauchery. His evil -temper, aggravated by his reverses, was ungoverned. -On the slightest provocation, he slew servants with his -own hands or caused them to be cruelly tortured. If -his spies or favorites mentioned unfavorably an officer -or soldier, death, often accompanied by tortures, such as -flaying alive, impaling on stakes, or dismemberment, was -inflicted upon the unfortunate accused. He even dared -seize and execute several noble Persians, thus carrying -into effect his jealous resolve to reduce their haughty -spirits. Finally a day came, when a dreadful murder -forced to action a conspiracy among prominent Persians -to dethrone him.</p> - -<p>Cambyses and his sister-wife were at dinner, when the -King, after alluding to her sad countenance, derisively<span class="pagenum" id="Page_226">[226]</span> -said to her: “You are like these other proud, upstart -Persians, moping about with disapproving countenance! -They shall all learn to bow the knee and to fall on their -faces in the dust before me, or they shall die! Who -am I that I should bear with them? I swear by Ahriman, -that I will arrest every Persian officer; and on the -morrow twelve shall die, on the day after twelve more -shall die, and on each succeeding day a like number, until -they are finished!”</p> - -<p>He banged his great fist down upon the table before -him. His sister was greatly moved. Her state of health -was such that she was extremely weak and nervous. -Her face was white and her eyes were full of horror. -The half-drunken King, noticing her look of repulsion, -was infuriated, and, calling her a vile name, shouted: -“What? Do you also defy me? Speak, craven, ere I -tear out your tongue!”</p> - -<p>The spirit in the child-woman suddenly blazed up and, -arising from the couch where she had been reclining, -she stood before the brute with clenched hands and flashing -eyes.</p> - -<p>“Murderer!” she cried. “You have abandoned all -good! You are all evil! You foully murdered Bardya! -You have driven Athura to her death! You have dishonored -me! Would you murder all the Aryan race? -Are you a Persian? Or are you a devil?”</p> - -<p>For a moment Cambyses was too dazed to speak. -Never had any one addressed him thus. Lashed to insane -fury by her words, he sprang up with stuttering -curses, knocked the frail woman down, and jumped upon -her prostrate body with his feet, stamping and crushing -her into insensibility. The servants screamed, and some -of them endeavored to prevent him; but he drew a dagger -and stabbed one to death, wounded another, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_227">[227]</span> -drove all out of his presence. Then, recovering his -senses somewhat and stricken with remorse, he knelt at -the side of his sister and wept aloud. He then called -for his surgeons and bade them save her or die. They -tried faithfully to restore her to consciousness, but without -avail. She died within the hour.</p> - -<p>This horrible crime soon became known among the -Persians. There were then encamped near Memphis -about fifty thousand men, the remnant of the Aryans who -had followed the King into Egypt. Conferences were -at once held among the Persian officers and it was decided -that Cambyses, being insane, should be deposed. -The Prince of Iran had no part in these deliberations. -With Gobryas and a body-guard, he had gone to visit -the nearest pyramids and had been absent several days. -Spies duly reported to the King the discontent of the -army. On the next day after the murder of his sister, -the King caused the arrest of fifty of the chief officers -of the army, many of them sons of the highest nobility -of Iran. True to his oath, taken before his sister, he -slew twelve of them and caused their heads to be hung -on the gates of the city with an inscription warning all -traitors of a like fate. At once there was a vast uproar. -The Aryan troops arose in a mass and marched into -Memphis to seize the King. A bloody battle took place -in the gardens of the King’s palace, in which the King’s -body-guard was cut in pieces and its remnants driven -into the palace, where behind heavy gates and doors -they pantingly awaited death. Prexaspes commanded the -body-guard and made a brave defense. But the veteran -Persians and Bactrians were not to be repulsed. They -were about to batter down the palace gates, when the -Prince of Iran arrived. Immediately the infuriated men -raised a roar of welcome and thrust upon him at once the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_228">[228]</span> -chief command, begging him to lead them and to allow -them to set him up as King.</p> - -<p>The King was not deficient in physical courage. Sobered -at last by the awful results of his fury in the murder -of his sister, and caring little what the end of this -revolt might be, desperate and savage, ready to fight to -the end, he paced back and forth behind the battlements -surrounding the roof of the great palace wherein he was -besieged, and glowered sullenly down upon the raging -mob below. Prexaspes came to him, ostensibly for orders -but really to advise that overtures of peace be made. -To him the King said rabidly: “What! Will you turn -against me also? Why not go down and join those? -Perhaps they will honor you! Saw you not that Prince -of Iran out yonder? I thought I saw him ride up. Even -now, if I mistake not, he stands yonder in the midst of -his officers planning how best to take me. Bring up a -dozen of the best archers. Him at least shall they -slay!”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes shook his head impatiently, and, while keeping -his eye on the King lest the latter might attack him, -he said harshly: “Have I not said that the Prince of -Iran is oath-bound to you? He alone can save you this -day! Would you slay the only man who can call off those -wolves yonder? It is madness to slay him. We shall be -torn limb for limb if he save us not!”</p> - -<p>The King did not answer immediately. He watched -the movements of the mob with tiger-like eyes. He saw -Prince Hystaspis pass slowly through the mob and observed -that the officers were also passing back and forth -shouting orders. He saw the men falling in with orderly -precision and, in a few minutes, that the mob had become -an army. Company after company formed in the open -garden and the adjacent streets, until on all sides of the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_229">[229]</span> -palace a solid cordon of men stood at rest with officers -duly advanced before them. Prexaspes waited impatiently -for orders, but the King only ordered wine to be -brought.</p> - -<p>The Prince of Iran had said to the officers who were -directing the mob: “Captains of Iran, I am grieved -to the heart! Never before have the Aryans turned on -their King in this manner and assaulted his high Majesty! -But the provocation has been great! Nevertheless, -if the Aryans rule the world, they must obey their -kings! By your act you have forfeited your lives and -under the law are as dead men! I will go to the King -and seek his pardon for you and for those he now holds -in prison. Speak to the men and say that I, the Prince -of Iran, their commander, order them to desist until I go -to the King and return!”</p> - -<p>Up spoke a grizzled veteran, who had campaigned with -Cyrus: “O most beloved Prince, go not to the King! -Does he not hate you? Has he not without cause murdered -his brother and his two sisters? Why do the heads -of our comrades hang on yonder walls? By the great -God, we have sworn that he shall release the others or -die! He is a madman, and it is no treason to dethrone -him. Go not to him! He will slay you also!”</p> - -<p>The Prince looked upon the rugged face of the speaker -with love, but he said reprovingly: “I know your heart, -Arbax; but you forget that he is the son of Cyrus, the -Great King. What of me? Have I not suffered at his -hands? Yet do I counsel obedience. Will you not be -guided by me?”</p> - -<p>“Always and forever!” answered Arbax. “But is it -not just to demand that he release our officers as well as -pardon the men?”</p> - -<p>“It is just. If he refuse, then indeed is he mad and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_230">[230]</span> -you do well to take him from the throne. I will go to -him demanding this. Will you abide the result?”</p> - -<p>A common assent was given by all. Only Gobryas, -whose soul was bitter because of the death of Artistone, -exclaimed: “Prince and brother, let me carry this demand -to the King, and you remain here! If he refuse -our request, or slay me, it will matter little. There may -be no need of further rioting! Let me go in your stead.”</p> - -<p>But the Prince shook his head. To send Gobryas -meant to send death to the King, as the latter, he knew, -was in a mood to slay the monster who had crushed the -life out of the woman he loved.</p> - -<p>“Have patience, my brother,” said the Prince. “The -state is above all else. Shall we slay our King and -plunge the whole world into anarchy? Every subject -nation would revolt. We are in the midst of our enemies -and far from home with a weakened army. Terror -of the King of Kings lies heavy upon the subject-peoples. -It must not be removed now. No, the time is -not ripe! Iran must be prepared to set up another King -before throwing down this one. The King will see the -justice of our demands.”</p> - -<p>Another captain spoke up, voicing the decision of all: -“We will obey you, as our commander. But our brothers -must be released and pardon extended to all. If -you return not in one half-hour with their pardon, we -storm the palace and slay every man therein. We swear -it!”</p> - -<p>“We swear it!” echoed all.</p> - -<p>“Do as you say!” answered the Prince. “But I will -return. Fear not for me! One higher than I goes with -me. Remain here and let the men not move from their -places.”</p> - -<p>He departed at once to the palace-gate, and, to the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_231">[231]</span> -guards peering forth from loopholes at its sides he commanded: -“Open! I go to the King, bearing peace!”</p> - -<p>The door was swung back to admit him. The guards -had expected only death at the hands of the savage men -who stood around the palace in silent, menacing attitude, -and peace they greatly desired. The Prince was -conducted to the roof, where he found Prexaspes and -the King. The latter had seated himself at a small table -and was drinking wine. He turned to the Prince, who -was startled at the sight of his haggard face, his bloodshot -eyes, and trembling hands—trembling, not in fear, -but from nervousness and debauchery. The King’s voice -was full of bitterness and hate, as he said: “Prince of -Iran, I bid you welcome! Your eyes are doubtless glad -to behold your King at the mercy of yonder rabble! -What come you for? My crown?”</p> - -<p>The Prince saluted the King gravely and looked down -upon him with ill-concealed disgust and pity. He said -in cold, measured tones: “King of the World, the day -has come when even I am unable to restrain the soldiers -of Iran. Those men and their fathers made your father -King of Kings, King of the World, the Great King. -They have added Egypt to your empire. How have you -rewarded them? Think you that without these Aryans -and their officers whom you have imprisoned, you could -sit here in safety one day? Not so! These Egyptians, -these Syrians and Babylonians, serve you not because -they love you, but because they fear our soldiers. Are -you mad? Why have you given yourself over to murder -and debauchery? Why have you forsaken your God -and allied yourself with the vile Magi? I speak plainly -but loyally. I am oath-bound to support you, but I -swear that unless you now be advised by me, I will do -nothing to save you from these men, who thirst to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_232">[232]</span> -avenge the blood of Bardya, of Artistone, and of these -others you have slain without just cause!”</p> - -<p>The King’s face grew purple with rage. He sprang -to his feet and half-drew his sword. But his eyes, looking -into the eyes of the Prince, saw in them a fierce, savage -light and a compelling gaze that drove him back to -his seat. He dared not lift his hand against this man. -A chill of abject fear ran through his body; and he saw, -as if by revelation, a hideous chasm opening before -him. Into that chasm of present and eternal destruction -he had been about to leap. He drew back and shudderingly -covered his face with his hands. His nerves were -unstrung by debauchery and by his fearful crimes. He -had come to a place where, in the face of death, he realized -how evil his life had been. It was true, as he now acknowledged -to himself, that the position he held was due -to the men he had slighted, insulted, imprisoned, or murdered. -He was silent a moment, and as he sank back -upon his chair he weakly passed a hand across his eyes -and said: “What do you advise? Your words are true! -I have been mad, but now I am restored to reason and -I see clearly.”</p> - -<p>The Prince was surprised. He had not expected such -sudden change. He thought rapidly, not only for the -present safety of the King, but for the good of the Aryan -race. A friendly, cordial note sounded in his voice, as -he answered: “Be advised by me, O King! Put away -from you the Magi. Put aside these Medean favorites. -Surround yourself with men of your own race and fill -the high offices of the empire with its nobility. Renounce -the witchcraft of the fire-worshipers and proclaim to the -world the rule of Ahura-Mazda. Pardon the men in rebellion -and release all prisoners. Bestow compensation -upon the widows and relatives of those you have slain.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_233">[233]</span> -Then will the people of Iran support you and yours on -the throne forever. Then will your reign become truly -great and glorious!”</p> - -<p>The King remained silent a long time after the Prince -ceased speaking. A good impulse stirred within his -heart. Life had been without happiness to him since -that fatal night when he had ordered Bardya slain. -Hate, envy, and malice towards the best men of his own -race had filled his heart. Remorse over his brother’s -fate had been with him, but it was as nothing to the remorse -and grief gnawing his soul over the death of Artistone, -the gentle sister and wife whom he really loved. -Could he ever atone? He would try.</p> - -<p>“Let it be done as you say,” he commanded, rising -unsteadily and shaking himself as if he would shake -off a horrible dream. “Prexaspes, you shall write decrees -to fulfill all that our beloved Prince advises. So -be it! I turn back into the old ways of my fathers. -I will dismiss the Magi. I will fill all chief offices with -Persians. I will dismiss my new body-guard of Medes, -and you, Prince, shall furnish the new Imperial Guard -and command it. Write a decree, Prexaspes, making -this Prince the chief man in my empire after the King. -Evermore will I be guided by his advice. The Magi -must go down and back to their haunts in the hills. The -temples of Ahura-Mazda shall open; and I will offer a -thousand sacrifices to atone for my sins. Order the prisoners -released. Write an address to be read to the army, -telling of my new resolve. I will go down to the soldiers -and tell them this myself!”</p> - -<p>“Not so, O King!” said the Prince. “Let me deal with -these men. Let your decrees be prepared and signed at -once. I will go down, release the imprisoned officers and -return to the army with them. This, O King, may be a -great day for good to the Aryan race!”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_234">[234]</span>“Let every order given by the Prince of Iran be -obeyed,” said the King to Prexaspes.</p> - -<p>The latter bowed low, and, followed by the Prince, -departed immediately to release the imprisoned officers, -and in a few moments these went forth to join the rejoicing -troops. The palace gates were thrown open, its -defenders marched out and departed to a distant garrison, -and a new guard of Persians was placed in charge. -The Prince of Iran, having secured the decrees and published -them, assumed charge of the King’s affairs. Thirty -days of mourning for Artistone were observed. Compensation -for the death of those slain by the King’s orders -and banishment of the Magi from affairs of state followed.</p> - -<p>King Cambyses determined to return to Medea in -order to complete the work of restoring to power the -Persian faction. Aryandes, a noble Persian, was appointed -satrap of Egypt and the bulk of the army was -left with him. The King, with a guard of ten thousand -Persians and an army of fifty thousand mixed troops, -escorting a vast train loaded with the wealth of Egypt, -marched by easy stages out of the latter country, through -Canaan, along the shore of the Great Sea, to a point near -Mount Carmel, where he turned towards Damascus. -The curses of Egypt went with him. Her priests, under -the milder rule of the sane Aryandes, then returned to -her deserted temples. But so broken were the Egyptians -and so strong was the Persian hold that no rebellion occurred. -The Egyptian people, having learned that while -the Persian King might be harsh yet his rule in the main -was just, did no more than dream of revolution; and for -a century Egypt slept peacefully beneath the paw of the -Persian lion.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_235">[235]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XVI<br /> - - -<small>THE END OF OATH-KEEPING</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap2">AFTER resting some days by the sea near Mount -Carmel, the King’s army moved eastward towards -Damascus, passing north of Lake Chinneroth and south -of Mount Hermon, through the ancient land of Bashan, -and so came to the small city of Hamath near the head-waters -of the Jordan.</p> - -<p>Since leaving Egypt the King had kept himself secluded, -either riding in a closed litter carried on the -shoulders of stout slaves, or staying within his tent. He -was gloomy and morose. He brooded much alone, and -when in his darkest moods was a savage and unreasonable -maniac. The Persian cavalry, of which his body-guard -was composed, regarded him with ill-suppressed -hatred. The remainder of the army was disaffected and -mutinous. A factional spirit had sprung up among the -soldiers. The different nationalities and religions -clashed. Especially did the Aryan monotheists despise -the worshipers of many gods and the devil-worship of -the Magi. Only the strong hand of the Prince of Iran, -for whom all had respect, could repress disorder and enforce -discipline.</p> - -<p>The King halted a day at Hamath and allowed the -army to rest before entering the desert road for Damascus. -The Prince of Iran mounted his favorite horse -and, accompanied by Gobryas and a score of men, rode -out towards Mount Hermon. As they were about to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_236">[236]</span> -ascend the lower hills, they met a runner or message-bearer, -coming down from the mountain, who, when he -saw the Prince, stopped running and bowed himself to -the earth. The Prince halted. He saw that the man -was a Hebrew.</p> - -<p>“Do not mine eyes behold the great lord, the mighty -Prince of Iran?” asked the runner.</p> - -<p>“I am he,” answered the Prince.</p> - -<p>The man produced a roll from his close-fitting tunic -and handed it to the Prince, who, greatly surprised, -opened and read:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“Greeting to the royal Prince, Darius of Iran, son of -King Hystaspis! May God have you in favor! Hearing -that you are with the great army near Hamath, and -having much to say of those you love well, I pray that you -will appoint a time and place where I may meet you. I -do not think it best to come into the King’s camp, unless -you may assure me of a safe escort. My trusty servant, -Joseph, will bear safely to me any message you may -send. If you would visit me, he will guide you to my -tent.</p> - -<p class="right"><span class="indentright">“Farewell,</span><br /> -“<span class="smcap">Belteshazzer</span>.”</p> -</div> - -<p>The Prince’s heart leaped with joy. Once only had -he heard from the Princess Athura, and he knew not -whether she had taken his advice and gone to Persepolis. -Perhaps she had chosen to stay with Belteshazzer and -was now with him. He handed the letter to Gobryas to -read and said to the messenger: “I will go to your -master. Lead the way!”</p> - -<p>The messenger again saluted and, turning his face to -the mountain, led the way with a long swinging stride,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_237">[237]</span> -going so swiftly that the horses of the Persians occasionally -galloped to keep near him. The road wound upward -around the spurs of the mountain. Having surmounted -a high ridge, they came at length upon a small -plateau several acres in extent, from which the rugged -heights went up still farther and upon which were several -cedar and fir trees. At one side a dashing torrent -poured out from a gulch, spread out in a swirling pool, -leaped over a rocky barrier, and disappeared into a canyon. -Near the pool on a grassy plot was a pavilion -of dark cloth and, clustered near it, a score of lesser -tents. Several horses grazed on the green before the -tents, and a group of men armed with bows and spears -stood near the pavilion. As the Persians drew near, -a man of stately and benign aspect emerged from it and -spoke reassuringly to the men, who were uneasily regarding -the newcomers as possible enemies. Then he -remained standing at the tent-door and waved a hand -in greeting to the Prince. It was Belteshazzer. The -Prince spurred his steed forward and, dismounting, hastened -to Belteshazzer, embraced him affectionately, and -kissed both his cheeks.</p> - -<p>“Hail, Master,” he exclaimed. “How long it has been -since I last saw you! Are you well?”</p> - -<p>“My health is excellent, my son,” answered the Hebrew, -cordially. “Glad indeed am I to behold you! -Bid your men dismount. My servants shall set food before -them and attend to their horses.”</p> - -<p>He called a servant to him and gave the Prince’s retinue -in his charge. Then he led the Prince into the -pavilion and caused him to sit down and partake of refreshments. -The Prince looked about him expectantly, -but was disappointed in finding no indications that -Athura was in the camp. Belteshazzer knew his thoughts<span class="pagenum" id="Page_238">[238]</span> -and smilingly said: “She is not here, my son. When -we received your letter bidding her go to your father, -we considered your advice good and traveled thither -by easy journeys. We were guests of your father many -months. I left her there under his protection and in the -love and care of your mother, when I journeyed hither. -She was well. More beautiful than the morn, sweeter -than the roses that bloom in Persian gardens, as pure -as the snows of Demavend, she waits for you! Your -father has established such a strong guard around his -palace that it resembles a camp; and none go in or come -out who are not known.”</p> - -<p>“My gratitude is unspeakable, O Prophet of God!” -said the Prince, fervently. “If there shall ever be any -favor I may render you, it shall be rendered. Have -you ever loved a woman? And know you the pain of -separation from her?”</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer sighed as he answered: “Yea, I have -known the love of a wife. But she has gone before -and awaits me on the shore of the river of life. Like -a spring of water and a green tree in a desert, is the -love of a good woman. I have much to tell you, my son; -but I know you desire me to speak of her most.”</p> - -<p>He then related the manner of Athura’s escape from the -palace of Cambyses at Hamadan, and the manner of her -life since. Then he gave to the Prince a large packet, -containing letters from the Princess, from King Hystaspis, -and from the Queen-mother.</p> - -<p>“Now,” he continued, “having told you that which -you wished most to know as a man, I must speak with -you of matters of state in which you are concerned as a -Prince and as the King to be. Even as you drew near, -it was given me of the spirit to perceive that this day -is full of mighty portent. Even now there enter men<span class="pagenum" id="Page_239">[239]</span> -into the King’s camp bearing news that will shake the -King’s soul. I have also received from trusty agents -within the week great news that has traveled to others -less swiftly. Evil men have seized the government of -the world at Hamadan. Patatheites, the regent, has -brought forth one whom he calls Bardya, the King’s -brother, and has proclaimed him King of Kings. He -has caused a decree to be published remitting all taxes -for three years, declaring that Cambyses is a maniac and -possessed of evil spirits, and ordering that he be apprehended -and imprisoned. You are surprised. Well may -you be. But fear not. It is not Bardya that reigns, but -an impostor. He is that Gaumata whom the Great King -maimed by cutting off his ears. Evil has been the life -of Cambyses, but not so evil as are the lives of those men -who have usurped power.”</p> - -<p>The Prince uttered an exclamation of wonder and incredulity.</p> - -<p>“But is Bardya dead? How knew you this? How -can that Gaumata hope to impersonate him long?”</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer smiled and remained silent for a moment. -His eyes were fixed as if looking within, and -he assumed a listening attitude, as one might in revery. -Presently he spoke softly and dreamily:</p> - -<p>“Yea, I see them even now sitting in a room of the -great palace! Patatheites paces up and down, his pale, -sharp countenance wreathed in a triumphant smile. Gaumata, -the earless one, sits on the throne, uneasy and -afraid. He wears a turban low down on his head after -the fashion of the Arabs, but it is to conceal his lack of -ears. He resembles Bardya, but he is Gaumata. He -has shown himself to the people, who have acclaimed -him. He awaits uneasily the return of messengers sent -to all parts of the earth. In him the Magi triumph and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_240">[240]</span> -Ahriman, that old serpent, the devil, rules. God is forgotten. -As I said, even now there run into the King’s -camp at Hamath the emissaries of the false Bardya. -They are proclaiming the decree aloud to the wondering -soldiers. They are distributing copies to all who -can read. A mighty spirit of unrest broods over the -army!”</p> - -<p>He paused and Prince Hystaspis sprang to his feet, -exclaiming: “Then there is need that I return to the -army at once! It loves not the King. But is Bardya -truly dead, O Prophet of God? Out of all your divine -wisdom assure me of this. Direct my course. Tell me of -the future. Not while I live shall the usurper throw -down the seed of Cyrus from his throne!”</p> - -<p>He paused. A tremor passed over the face of Belteshazzer, -and with half-closed eyes he continued the low, -even-toned words of the seer:</p> - -<p>“My son, Bardya is dead! He was slain by Prexaspes -in pursuance of the King’s command. A sword-stroke -from behind, as they rode northward out of Hamadan, -was given by the Mede, with such power that it -cleft the Prince’s head to the eyes. Have no doubt of -this. I have seen it in visions and heard it of the spirit. -What of the future? I see Cambyses dead! I see raised -on high one with the countenance of Darius, son of Hystaspis, -like an eagle; and he looks at the sun and spreads -his wings over the whole world. More I cannot see. -God does not decree all things; but He brings to pass -that which He does decree. He controls not the wills -of men, nor forces them to do good or evil. But in accord -with His mighty purpose, He ordains that you, O -son of Hystaspis, shall rule the world; and it shall come -to pass! Fear not! Go forward! Cast down the liars -of earth and those that delude the people to their hurt,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_241">[241]</span> -idolaters and worshipers of earthly things! Restore -again the altars of God. With great power shall you -rule and give peace and justice to the peoples of the -earth.”</p> - -<p>“But it is not required that I raise my hand against -Cambyses?”</p> - -<p>“No. It is not required. The King is his own avenger.”</p> - -<p>“Come with me, beloved Master. I need your advice -and guidance.”</p> - -<p>“I will come to you at Hamadan in due time, my son. -Now I go down to Jerusalem to encourage my people. -When you come to your high estate, remember my people, -who languish in foreign lands. The Great Cyrus -decreed their return, but died before it could be accomplished. -Let them return and rebuild the temple of God -and live happily beneath the shadow of the King of -Kings.”</p> - -<p>“I swear to you, O Belteshazzer, it shall be done! -Your God is my God. Is is not so? Your people shall -be even as the Aryans, favored of me, when I sit on the -throne.”</p> - -<p>“Yea, it is so. God is a spirit. Ahura-Mazda, the -good spirit, is the same as Elohim. Have we not so decided, -your father and I, in discourse by the Pulwar? -Truly your father is a man of knowledge!”</p> - -<p>“He sat at the feet of Zoroaster in his youth. Has -age touched him and my mother harshly?”</p> - -<p>“No. Their eyes are undimmed. Their hearts are -young. Age but puts wisdom into them.”</p> - -<p>Many other questions, of his home, of his parents, and -of Athura, asked the Prince. Servants having spread a -lunch beneath an awning before the pavilion, he and -Gobryas sat down with Belteshazzer and refreshed themselves.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_242">[242]</span> -It was an inspiring scene. To the west and -north were the rugged spurs and ridges of Mount Hermon. -Below and to the east was the great plain spreading -out towards Damascus and Edom. The sparkling -cascade with its soft rush of waters, the song of birds, -the brilliant sunlight over all, were elements of an impression -on the mind of the Prince that he never forgot. -From this point he set out to seize the throne of the -world. Convinced that the great prophet spoke truly, he -now set his gaze on the greatest place of power in all the -earth and went steadily towards it. But he did not linger -here. With the blessing of Belteshazzer ringing in his -ears, he hastened back to the army.</p> - -<p>As he rode into camp, he saw evidence of excitement -and turmoil. His ten thousand Persians composing the -body-guard were standing in battle-array, in a hollow -square around the King’s pavilion, with officers pacing -back and forth at the several fronts in gloomy silence. -A vast concourse of men was gathered near around a -speaker, who, mounted on a chariot, was haranguing -them. A roar of voices arose as the speaker paused and -pointed towards the Prince and his party.</p> - -<p>“Long live Bardya! Down with Cambyses! Hail to -King Bardya! Slay the murderer of his sister! -Death to the tyrant!” were some of the shouts that -came to the Prince’s ears. He paused but an instant to -listen. Then, riding up to one of the officers of the -guard, he demanded, “What means this?”</p> - -<p>“Praise God you have come!” answered the officer, -joyfully. “Now we shall know what to do. Messengers -have come from Damascus bearing copies of a decree -from Bardya, the King’s brother, announcing that -he has assumed the throne of the King of Kings and -has been crowned at Hamadan. He decrees that<span class="pagenum" id="Page_243">[243]</span> -Cambyses be seized and brought to him so that he may -be punished for the murder of the King’s sister; and he -also promises peace and remission of taxes. Here is a -copy. We of the guard knew not your pleasure, -whether we should defend King Cambyses or deliver -him as a prisoner to your hand. So we have surrounded -the King’s pavilion and are ready to do your will.”</p> - -<p>The officer presented a roll of papyrus to the Prince, -who quickly read it. Then the Prince directed all the -officers to come before him and said:</p> - -<p>“Men, as to this report that Bardya has set himself -up for King, I know that Bardya is dead and he who is -set up on high is an impostor. The liars of the hills -have done this thing, having heard of the King’s decree -that they shall be cast down from their places. Order -the soldiers to remain steadfast and resist those men -who have stirred up mutiny. Say to them that I, their -Prince, have spoken, and my word they must obey. No -impious hand shall be laid upon Cambyses, the King!”</p> - -<p>The officers were amazed. But they doubted not the -words of their commander, and went along the lines, -repeating to the excited soldiery his words. He, dismounting, -went alone into the King’s pavilion. A -trembling slave announced him to the King and admitted -him to the presence. He found Cambyses pacing -back and forth in great agitation.</p> - -<p>“Ha!” exclaimed the King, “you have returned! -I thought you too had turned from me. How is it that -rebellion has broken loose in this camp? Are you not -commander? You shall answer for it with your head! -But perhaps you come to tell me that I am a prisoner! -And you will put me in chains and take me to Bardya!”</p> - -<p>The Prince saluted gravely and stood with uncovered -head. “I come to assure you that the Guard and I intend<span class="pagenum" id="Page_244">[244]</span> -to defend you against any attack,” he said. “Is it -your order that we arrest the mutineers and punish -them?”</p> - -<p>The King paused in amazement. He was incredulous -and shaken. He could not believe that this man, who -had suffered such wrongs at his hands, would not seize -him and carry him to Bardya. He believed that -Prexaspes had been faithless in executing his order to -slay Bardya and that the latter had seized an opportune -time to appear and claim the throne. His army in -mutiny, what chance had he to regain his lost throne? -He passed a trembling hand uncertainly over his haggard -face.</p> - -<p>“I am mightily shaken,” he said nervously. “The -words of a sorcerer ring in my ears. He said that I -should die at Hamadan. I thought you had come to -seize me and carry me thither to death. I thought -Bardya dead! Prexaspes so reported. Where is this -Prexaspes? Let him be brought hither!”</p> - -<p>He jerked a cord connecting with a bell in the servants’ -quarters. A servant instantly appeared.</p> - -<p>“Send Prexaspes hither!” commanded the King.</p> - -<p>They waited in gloomy silence until Prexaspes came. -There was a mocking light in the Mede’s dark eyes and -a perceptible sneer on his face as he met the King’s -savage gaze. He bowed low to both the King and the -Prince.</p> - -<p>“Hark you!” exclaimed Cambyses. “Hear those -cries! They acclaim Bardya King! Did you not swear -to me that my brother was dead?”</p> - -<p>“I did swear, O King!” answered Prexaspes, coolly. -“Here was my authority to slay him.”</p> - -<p>He drew a paper from his tunic and deliberately -handed it unrolled to the Prince, who glanced at it. It<span class="pagenum" id="Page_245">[245]</span> -was the order of King Cambyses to slay Bardya. The -King’s face grew livid with wrath.</p> - -<p>“Thus commanded,” continued Prexaspes, “I rode -with Bardya along the Rhages road after leaving the -hall where the King gave a feast in his honor. I returned -and reported that I had slain Bardya with a -sword-stroke from behind. But he died not, it seems. -Why should I have the blood of kings on my hands?”</p> - -<p>The Prince studied the Mede’s face with growing -rage. The latter’s bold gaze fell before the accusing -fury of the Prince’s eyes. The King seemed speechless. -The Prince smote his hands together, and burst -forth: “By the living God, you both deserve the death -of murderers! Why should I interfere with the wrath -of God? You lie, Prexaspes! I know the truth!”</p> - -<p>He cast the order at the King’s feet and without ceremony -turned and left the tent. The King turned upon -Prexaspes with maniacal fury.</p> - -<p>“Villain! Dog!” he screamed. “Why show that -order? You know that my only hope depends on the -Prince! Now you have turned him from me! You -shall be skinned alive! Your heart shall be cut out and -given to swine! You shall hang on a stake!”</p> - -<p>Prexaspes laughed and snapped his fingers in the -King’s face.</p> - -<p>“I fear you not, foul beast!” he shouted. “Your -day has come, as comes the day of every villain, -whether crowned or not! Am I to die? I know it. I -read death in the eyes of the Prince. I also read your -death there, son of Ahriman! Listen! You slew my -son, in cruel sport, one day. The arrow that cleft his -brain killed my loyalty to you. I know a lingering death -awaits you at Hamadan or I would myself slay you -now!”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_246">[246]</span>For a moment the King was so astonished as to be -speechless. Then, roaring inarticulate curses, he sought -for his sword. But it was not at his side. He rushed -about the tent searching for it. Prexaspes, laughing derisively, -disappeared through the rear door. The King -presently found a long dagger in a pile of armor and -with it rushed out after Prexaspes. But though he -searched through the servants’ quarters, he did not find -him. He returned to his pavilion and after pacing back -and forth a moment went out in front of his quarters, -uncertain what course to pursue.</p> - -<p>A vast mob of soldiers, waving arms and shouting -maledictions upon Cambyses, was moving down upon -the Persian square. The Prince of Iran was mounting -his horse, while several orderlies were galloping along -the tense lines of the Guard delivering orders to the -captains. A squad of cavalry under Gobryas was -marching towards the King’s tent.</p> - -<p>“They come to arrest me!” muttered the King. -“But I shall not be taken alive! Prexaspes lied. My -brother lives and the world turns to him. He will -surely slay me, knowing that I ordered him slain. If I -die, I will die as a King!”</p> - -<p>A sudden high resolve entered his soul. He went -back into the tent, placed the crown and tiara, which he -wore on state occasions, on his head, threw over his -shoulders a long purple cloak, composed his countenance -to a calm dignity, and, with the long, keen dagger -in his hand, again went forth. Gobryas and his troopers, -who were under orders to place the King in their -midst and to cut their way out and escape with him -should the Guard be unable to repulse the expected attack, -opened up to let the King pass through. The -Prince was riding towards the mob intent on a parley<span class="pagenum" id="Page_247">[247]</span> -before the necessity of bloodshed should come. The -King passed through the ranks of the Guard and halted -at ten paces in front. The leaders of the mob, seeing -him, suddenly halted at a hundred paces’ distance and -fell silent, astonished at the appearance of the terrible -Cambyses. The Prince, turning to investigate the cause -of the mob’s action, saw Cambyses look a moment at -the low, western sun and around at the sky and distant -mountains, and at last turn his burning eyes upon -the hostile faces of his subjects. Then, with a swift -motion, the King elevated the gleaming dagger and -plunged it into his own chest. A cry of horror involuntarily -rose from the throng. The King swayed, his -knees bent, and he fell prone upon the earth. The -Prince, realizing what the King had done, turned upon -the mob and shouted: “Back to your tents, scoundrels! -You have slain your King! Back, I say, before I let -loose the Guards upon you!”</p> - -<p>An immediate backward movement of the mob took -place, and it melted away in awed silence. The Prince -rode quickly back to the King, and, assisted by his -officers, carried the injured man into the tent. Surgeons -were called, the dagger removed, and the wound -bandaged. The blade had failed to reach the heart, but -had passed through a lung and inflicted a fatal wound. -The shock had rendered the King insensible. Blood -poured from his mouth, but he did not die immediately.</p> - -<p>Night had fallen before the King regained consciousness. -He opened his eyes and looked at the flaring -lamps, as if wondering whether they were torches in -the underworld, and at the soft-footed attendants as if -wondering whether they were lost souls. His eyes presently -rested upon the Prince of Iran, who stood at the -foot of his couch with folded arms looking sadly down<span class="pagenum" id="Page_248">[248]</span> -upon him. Recognition arrested his wandering mind. -He strove to rise, muttering feebly, “Then I am not -dead!”</p> - -<p>An attendant sought to restrain him. Blood gushed -from his mouth, and he fell back with a bubbling groan. -After resting a moment and clearing his throat, he said -with difficulty: “Let all retire save the Prince. I am -about to die. Let me die in peace.”</p> - -<p>At a nod from the Prince, the attendants left the -room. The Prince drew near to the head of the couch. -The King looked up at him and spoke in weak, halting -words:</p> - -<p>“Strange it is, Prince of Iran, that you alone stand by -me in death! A thousand times I have planned your -death, but my hand has ever been held. I have done -you wrong. But in you alone have I trusted. How is -it that I have hated yet trusted you?”</p> - -<p>The Prince shook his head. “I know not,” he said.</p> - -<p>“But it is fate!” continued the King. “What of the -future? Where now are the wise men? Where those -prophets of the hills who predicted good fortune, who -said that my seed should sit on the throne, who said I -would conquer all my enemies and die at Hamadan? -Would God that I had heeded the words of the prophet -Belteshazzer, when he sought to teach me how to live -rightly! Where is that Belteshazzer? I wish that he -were here!”</p> - -<p>He paused. There was a rustle of the curtain at the -tent-door. It drew aside and the tall, majestic presence -of Belteshazzer came into the tent. The musical, quiet -voice of the prophet said, “I am here, O King Cambyses!”</p> - -<p>Cambyses stared in amazement.</p> - -<p>“What wonder is this?” he exclaimed. “Am I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_249">[249]</span> -dreaming? Is this a vision? Are you that prophet, -Belteshazzer?”</p> - -<p>“I am Belteshazzer, the Hebrew,” answered the -prophet. “Your life is almost ended, Cambyses. What -do you demand of me?”</p> - -<p>“I demand to know what awaits me in the future. -About to die, I would atone for many grievous sins. -What of the future? What of God? What of forgetfulness -through eternity to come?”</p> - -<p>Belteshazzer’s countenance exhibited both pity and -sternness, as he answered, “Your time is short to atone -for the grievous sins of your life, O King. The blood -of many cries against you from the ground. Through -long years to come, wherever your soul may wander, -the evil you have done will be with you and bitterness -will be your portion. But God, the great and only God, -is a loving Father; and, perhaps, if you humble yourself -and repent, you may at length win His forgiveness and -favor. There will be no forgetfulness without forgiveness. -Greatly have you sinned. Deeply must you repent.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I have sinned greatly,” murmured the King. -“In frantic wrath I slew my sister-wife! In willful -oppression I drove my sister Athura to her death—”</p> - -<p>“She is not dead,” interrupted Belteshazzer. “She -lives!”</p> - -<p>“Praise be to Ahura-Mazda!” said the King. “Now -I know what that Magian meant, when he said that a -son of my sister shall sit on the throne of the King of -Kings. For she shall marry the Prince of Iran. I feel -upon me the spirit of prophecy! Prince of Iran, you -shall be King of Kings! In the presence of Belteshazzer, -I declare you my successor. Marry Athura. I give -her to you. She is your wife. Thus do I atone for one<span class="pagenum" id="Page_250">[250]</span> -sin. But that other prophet lied when he said I should -die at Hamadan. For I die here in the Syrian desert.”</p> - -<p>“Did he say Hamadan of Medea?” inquired Belteshazzer. -“If not, he spake truly. For this village -where you are encamped is named Hamath, which is -Syrian for Hamadan.”</p> - -<p>The King gasped. “Then he spake truly!” he said. -“He was not of the Magi. He was a hermit, alone in -the mountains. He reproved me one day—and he was -slain. Truly have I sinned! I have slain the prophets -with the sword!”</p> - -<p>He was silent a moment. Blood choked him and he -coughed. The Prince gently aided him. The King’s -strength was rapidly failing. His voice was gone and -he whispered hoarsely, “O that I might see those I have -wronged and of them seek pardon!”</p> - -<p>He fell silent and his eyes were partially closed. -Presently he shuddered and opened his eyes wide. He -half rose, stared in amazement and terror towards the -foot of his couch, and raised his hand as if to ward off -a blow. The Prince, following the direction of the -King’s gaze, saw (or did he dream?) at the foot of the -King’s couch a company of apparitions, one of which -seemed to have the pallid, serious, reproving countenance -of Cyrus, the Great King, another the sorrowful face of -Artistone, another the fierce countenance of Bardya, -while a score of others, unknown to him, seemed to come -and go. Their faces were turned towards Cambyses; -but, as the Prince gazed spellbound, the face of Cyrus -turned towards him, his lips seemed to move, and he -seemed to say: “You have kept your oath. You are -free. Ascend the throne of the King of Kings!”</p> - -<p>A gurgling shriek from the King aroused the Prince. -The apparitions disappeared. Cambyses was dead.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_251">[251]</span>Belteshazzer said, as the surgeons and attendants, -alarmed by the King’s outcry, rushed into the room: -“The King is dead. Let the body be embalmed for -transportation to Pasargadæ, that he may sleep with -his fathers.”</p> - -<p>“Let this order be obeyed,” added the Prince, addressing -the attendants. Then he said to Belteshazzer: -“Come, prophet of God, to my tent. I need your counsel -and aid.”</p> - -<p>They left the pavilion and walked slowly to the -Prince’s headquarters. To Gobryas whom they met still -on guard the Prince said: “The King is dead. Let the -men be fed and tell them to rest. Let the news be proclaimed -throughout the camp. Send a company of men -to arrest Prexaspes and bring him before me.”</p> - -<p>He passed on with Belteshazzer. Gobryas hastened -to execute his orders. He sent a squad to arrest -Prexaspes, but found that the latter had escaped. The -wily Mede had hastened from the camp during the confusion -incident to the King’s death, and was journeying -northward as fast as his horse could carry him.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile the Prince and Belteshazzer sat at meat -in the Prince’s tent and talked of many things. When -the prophet arose to depart, he said: “Have great -care, my son! Those men who brought the news of this -false Bardya’s usurpation are likewise commissioned by -the Magi to slay you. They do not dare openly harm -you, but they will secretly assassinate you if opportunity -offer. But fear not! Within the year you will reign -as King of Kings!”</p> - -<p>“Give me your blessing, O Prophet of God!” besought -the Prince. “When I reign, you shall come to -me and be my chief counselor. You shall be at the head -of the college of wise men. Ease and plenty shall be -yours and peace shall come to your people!”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_252">[252]</span>“May the blessing of God, the Almighty, the Eternal, -the Ancient of Days, rest upon you!” said Belteshazzer, -solemnly, laying his hands upon the Prince’s bowed head. -“Remember when you come to the throne that Cyrus -promised that my people should return to Jerusalem and -recover their homes and property.”</p> - -<p>“I remember, and it shall be done. Let me send -guards with you beyond the camp.”</p> - -<p>“It is needless. I shall go as I came, without the -need of guards. Farewell!”</p> - -<p>With a smile he disappeared, and the Prince was left -alone, to stand awhile in deep thought and then to pace -back and forth many minutes. Presently he called his -orderlies and directed them to call the chief captains -into council. They soon arrived, and he greeted each -affectionately. When a score of them had assembled, -he said:</p> - -<p>“I have called you together to hear the orders made -necessary by the death of Cambyses, King of Kings. -It has become necessary for me to depart at once to -Hamadan. I take with me the Imperial Guard. I -leave Alyates in command of the army. He shall see to -it that the King’s body is properly embalmed. It must -be buried at Pasargadæ with the other Kings. Let the -army march leisurely to Damascus and there halt until -the orders of the new King shall have been received. -Let it be known that this army stands ready to enforce -obedience to the house of Achæmenius.”</p> - -<p>Alyates, a tall, soldierly Mede, saluted and said, -“Your orders shall be obeyed, my Lord Prince.”</p> - -<p>After other suggestions concerning the movements of -the army, the Prince dismissed the council and sat down -to write letters to his father and to the Princess Athura. -He related what he had heard from Belteshazzer concerning<span class="pagenum" id="Page_253">[253]</span> -the false Bardya, gave an account of the death -of the King, and stated his own purpose, to march at -once to Hamadan and seize the impostor. He prayed -that his father would declare himself King of Kings and -lead an army of Persians to Hamadan at once. These -letters he entrusted to Gobryas, who, with a dozen trusty -men, at once set out for Persia, riding at courier speed.</p> - -<p>At daybreak, the Prince and his ten thousand men, -in light marching order, moved quietly out of the camp -and proceeded to Damascus. Thence, by forced -marches, they moved across the desert towards Babylon, -taking for guides trusty Arab sheiks to whom Belteshazzer -had commended him. Nor could the uneasy -Gaumata and the scheming Patatheites, at Hamadan, -discern his movements and so lay plans to intercept him. -When they heard that he had started for Hamadan at -the head of ten thousand Persians, they made haste to -gather together an army with which to resist him, and -a portion of the army was moved out towards the fords -of the upper Tigris. But the Prince and his guards -came not that way. It was his plan to seize Babylon -and Susa and form a junction with the Persian army -which he knew would march up from Persepolis.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_254">[254]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XVII<br /> - - -<small>THE EARLESS KING</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">KING HYSTASPIS, ruler of Iran under the shadow -of the King of Kings, walked leisurely through the -park surrounding his palace at Persepolis and meditated -upon the doctrines of Zoroaster. Student and mystic, -loving rather the peace and quiet of his home than the -martial camp or the ruler’s throne, he found his greatest -enjoyment in his beautiful park where he might be -alone. Quiet walks, dreamy hours by running streams -beneath shady trees, communion with the learned and -wise, and meditation on the mysteries of life and of -nature occupied his leisure moments. Delightful indeed -were the October days. Brown and golden were -the leaves where deciduous trees made ready to cast -their burdens. The evergreen of pine and fir interspersed -the more brilliant colors. The sky was hazy -and the sunbeams, softened by shimmering mists, had -lost their great heat and vivid glare.</p> - -<p>The King was at ease. No armor burdened him. -A round felt cap with a purple band sat lightly on his -massive head. His long gray hair fell in masses to the -collar of his Medean cloak. His white beard touched -the belt at his waist. The purple cloak, reaching from -shoulder to knee, partially covered in its graceful folds -the dark tunic of his under-dress. His feet were shod -in boots of soft leather. In his hand was a heavy cane, -with which as he walked he flicked pebbles from his -path. A large shepherd dog walked at his side. Master<span class="pagenum" id="Page_255">[255]</span> -and dog had enjoyed the park alone for a long time. -But there came an interruption. The dog suddenly -bounded away through the trees towards the palace, -whose massive portico was partially visible through the -foliage. The King stopped to observe the cause of his -follower’s movements and saw a woman coming rapidly -towards him, at sight of whom his countenance shone -with pleasure. It was the Princess Athura. She held -in her hand a roll of papyrus. Following her at respectful -distance was a man in the uniform of a King’s -messenger, whose dusty habit and halting steps told of -a long ride and weariness.</p> - -<p>“My brother has written me!” cried the Princess, as -she drew near. “See! I have here a letter from him, -sealed with his own private signet!”</p> - -<p>“Which brother mean you?” inquired the King, with -surprise.</p> - -<p>“Bardya!”</p> - -<p>“Is it so? What says he?”</p> - -<p>The old man’s brow was clouded as he spoke. Not -yet had he declared for the new King Bardya, though -he did not suspect as yet the imposture by which the -Magi hoped to retain power. He had called the nobles -of Persia to a council on this matter, and the meeting -would be held shortly. He had loved Bardya almost as -a son and knew that the people hated Cambyses. But -Bardya had not begun his reign by calling back the -Persian nobles to the chief offices, nor had he banished -the Magi—much to the chagrin and sorrow of the King -of Iran. He listened attentively as Athura read:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“<i>My beloved sister, Athura, Light of the World and -Queen of the Aryans</i>:</p> - -<p>“Now that I have come forth from my place of safety -in the royal mountain, Demavend, and taken upon me<span class="pagenum" id="Page_256">[256]</span> -the crown of King of Kings, my heart goes out to you. -Do you not remember how we used to talk of ruling this -great empire of Cyrus together? My brother, Cambyses, -would have killed me and you, could he have done -so. The good priests of Mithra saved me and hid me -away until the time was ripe to come forth. Of this I -will tell you more when I see you.</p> - -<p>“I have heard that you are with the royal Hystaspis -at his palace in Persepolis. May peace be with him! -I have sent him greetings by a suitable embassy, confirming -him in all his titles and requesting him to acknowledge -my rule. For Cambyses is dead. The army -near Damascus has revolted from him and slain him. -I know how the royal Hystaspis loves you. Persuade -him, therefore, to assist me in my great task and he shall -be the second man in the empire.</p> - -<p>“As for yourself, come to me. I need you here at -Hamadan to advise me. You were ever the wiser and -you shall be joint ruler with me in fact if not in name. -I am sending an escort to meet you at Susa. To that -point, royal Hystapsis will give you suitable escort.</p> - -<p>“Come to me. It is a command.</p> - -<p class="right">“<span class="smcap">Bardya</span>, King of Kings.”</p> -</div> - -<p>She paused and looked inquiringly into the King’s -eyes. The latter took from her hand the scroll and read -it himself in silence. Then he said: “If it be true that -Cambyses is dead, my course is clear. Yet am I not -satisfied. It seems almost inconceivable that Bardya -has come back from the dead. Yet it must be so.”</p> - -<p>He beckoned to the messenger, who had discreetly -halted a score of paces distant, and asked, “Are you in -the regular messenger service?”</p> - -<p>The man bowed low till his hands touched the earth,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_257">[257]</span> -and then, standing in humble attitude, answered, “Yes, -Master.”</p> - -<p>“How many years?”</p> - -<p>“Ten years, Master.”</p> - -<p>“Then you have often seen Cyrus, the Great King? -Also Cambyses and Bardya?”</p> - -<p>“Truly have I seen them, my lord, many times. I -know them well.”</p> - -<p>“Have you seen King Bardya since he returned to -Hamadan?”</p> - -<p>“Twice, but only at the public audiences. He rides -not forth as formerly, because, it is said, he fears assassins.”</p> - -<p>“How looks he?”</p> - -<p>“The lights were dim when I saw him, but I recognized -him. He has lost flesh, as if he had been ill. He -used to take part in the martial sports, but does not do -so now.”</p> - -<p>“What say the people of him?”</p> - -<p>“They praise him for the most part. He has remitted -the taxes, pardoned all political offenders, and -proclaimed a year of peace and jubilee. Only the old -priests grumble, who are displeased because he favors -the Magi.”</p> - -<p>“You may return to the palace, where you will be -entertained.”</p> - -<p>Saluting again, the messenger gladly hastened away -to the ample refreshments he knew awaited him at the -palace. The King returned the scroll to Athura and -sighed. After a moment’s thought, he said: “Daughter, -I like not the situation. If Cambyses be dead, as here -reported, then Bardya is rightfully King. But he has -abandoned the ancient religion of his fathers very suddenly -for the accursed superstition of those Scythian<span class="pagenum" id="Page_258">[258]</span> -interlopers, the Magi. But his decree concerning the -Magi shall not run in Iran! I have heard that some of -the temples of our religion in Medea have been closed -and that the altars of the fire-worshipers on the hilltops -have multiplied. So changed is he in all this that I am -astounded. He commands you to come to him. It is -for you to decide. It may be that you can turn him back -from his evil way. But I fear to let you go.”</p> - -<p>“I am greatly troubled,” said Athura. “Bardya -never was inclined to give much thought to religion. -He loves sports, the army, and the hunt. His heart is -easily touched. In gratitude to those who saved his life, -he has granted them great privileges. All the more -should I, on whom he ever leaned for advice, be near him, -to lead him back if possible to the old paths. I have -nothing to fear from him. It is my duty to go. But I -desire your advice. You have been a father to me, and -the gracious Queen, a mother!”</p> - -<p>The King smiled. “If my son returns from Egypt,” -he said, “I shall deem myself happy to acknowledge you -my daughter in fact. If Cambyses is dead, there need -be no more concealment or fear. I will send trusty messengers -to Hamadan, Babylon, and Susa and even to -Egypt to learn the truth. My son would certainly have -sent messengers to me with news of the King’s death if -he were dead.”</p> - -<p>“May Ahura-Mazda hasten the day of his return! -How long it has been since I last saw him!”</p> - -<p>“If you go to Hamadan, what will be the result? -Will Bardya act as did Cambyses?”</p> - -<p>“No, a thousand times! Bardya will consent to my -marriage with your son at once.”</p> - -<p>“It may be. And yet, knowing how my son loves -the truth and our ancient faith, I fear that Bardya’s<span class="pagenum" id="Page_259">[259]</span> -new faith will cause a rupture of their friendship. -Darius is an enemy of liars. Unlike me, this son of -mine loves war rather than peace and has little patience -with those who differ from him in opinion. Perhaps -his love for you will cause him to overlook the errors of -your brother. As to this letter, if you go, my blessing -shall go with you; and, should you call to me for aid -from the ends of the earth, I will march to you at the -head of a hundred thousand Persians. If you stay here, -all Iran will be a bulwark around you and my home shall -be yours.”</p> - -<p>Tears filled the eyes of Athura. Kneeling, she placed -the right hand of the King on her head, saying: “I will -take your blessing, my father, and go. Well do I know -the love of our people. Sometimes in the bitterness of -my condition I have thought of calling them to arms and -throwing down from his throne the dread Cambyses. -Had it not been for that oath you and your son swore -to the Great King, I would have done so!”</p> - -<p>Hystaspis bent over and kissed her forehead.</p> - -<p>“May Ahura-Mazda, giver of all life, bless you!” he -said solemnly. “May Sraosha, his powerful messenger, -ever be at your right hand to convey to Him your -slightest petition! May happiness in the love of a husband -be yours and peace in your own home! Come, let -us go to the palace and break the sad news of your going -to the mother there.”</p> - -<p>They went to the palace side by side and were met on -the portico by the stately lady who ruled the King’s -heart even as he kept sway over millions of proud subjects.</p> - -<p>She sought to persuade Athura not to go to Hamadan, -until more certain information of the conditions there -could be had; but Athura was firm in her determination<span class="pagenum" id="Page_260">[260]</span> -to obey the call of her brother. Therefore next day a -company of cavalry escorting the Princess marched towards -Susa. King Hystaspis rode with her a day’s -journey.</p> - -<p>On the fifth day after the departure of the Princess, -three of the great Persian nobles, Otanes, Hydarnes, and -Vomisces, resplendent in military dress and in armor -adorned with bright metal and precious stones, each -attended by a score of stout guards, rode over the stone -bridge across the Pulwar and demanded audience of the -King. A chamberlain conducted them into the audience -hall, where the benevolent King sat on his throne -in state. They saluted him, and Otanes said: “O -King, live forever! We, your counselors, come to advise -with you on grave affairs of state.”</p> - -<p>“I am glad to behold you,” responded the King. -“You are welcome. Speak on!”</p> - -<p>Otanes drew a letter from the folds of his cloak.</p> - -<p>“Here have I a letter from my daughter, Phædima,” -he said. “She was the wife of the Great King, Cambyses, -and she was taken as wife by that one who calls -himself Bardya, who, having deposed Cambyses, assumed -to marry all his wives. But listen! Was ever -such fraud practiced upon a people? This came secretly -by a messenger, a slave who owed his life to my -daughter. Let me read.</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> -<p>“‘<i>To Otanes, my beloved father</i>:</p> - -<p>“‘In much shame and agitation do I write this and -will endeavor to dispatch it to you by Hyrax, my faithful -slave.</p> - -<p>“‘This Bardya is an impostor. He is not Bardya -the King’s brother. When Patatheites, the regent, announced -that Bardya, son of Cyrus, had returned from<span class="pagenum" id="Page_261">[261]</span> -Mount Demavend where he had been hiding, and had -declared himself King of Kings, there was great rejoicing -in Hamadan, and all the people and the army gladly -declared for him. The new King made a decree divorcing -us from Cambyses and making all of us his wives. -What could we do? It was the King’s word.</p> - -<p>“‘But, when this man came to visit me, I saw that he -could not be the true Bardya, though he resembles him -much. He wore a turban after the manner of the -Arabs but in such way that it covered his hair and ears. -This day did I discover that he has no ears. While he -slept, overcome by wine, his turban was disarranged. -Then I remembered that I saw this man led away from -the presence of Cyrus, who had sentenced him to have -his ears cut off for some offense. His name was Gaumata -and he was a wizard, a priest of the Magi. This -is the man! I had no dagger or I would have slain him. -We are prisoners in the palace and are not permitted -to go even to the park walls. Haste, then, my father, to -rescue your daughter from this foul creature! I have -heard it proclaimed that Cambyses is dead, slain by his -own hand in Syria. Of the truth of this I know not. -My hands reach out to you!</p> - -<p class="right"><span class="indentright">“‘Farewell!</span><br /> -“‘<span class="smcap">Phædima.</span>’”</p> -</div> - -<p>The King was amazed. He arose from his throne as -the reading proceeded and nervously pulled at his beard. -When it was done, he smote together his hands in great -agitation.</p> - -<p>“Alas!” he cried. “How unfortunate that your message -did not come five days ago! Then I would have -kept the royal Athura here or marched with her to Hamadan -at the head of an army. Only five days ago in<span class="pagenum" id="Page_262">[262]</span> -obedience to a letter sent her by this false slave, calling -himself Bardya, she departed, and even now she may be -at Susa in his power! May curses rest on him! I perceive -his scheme! With the last of the children of -Cyrus in his power, he thinks to be safe. But not so! -No time is to be lost! Let us take immediate action!”</p> - -<p>He pulled a cord near at hand, and a gong sounded -in an adjacent room. Instantly a door at the right of -the throne swung open, admitting an officer of the Guard. -To him the King said: “Captain Arios, take five hundred -men, the best of the army in Persepolis, with the -strongest horses, and ride to Susa! Ride day and night! -Seize horses and supplies as you go! Overtake Captain -Mardux and bring back the Princess Athura, if you -can. Ride even to Hamadan if you do not find her at -Susa. Send messengers in advance to overtake and -turn her back. Spare not horses or men! Delay not!”</p> - -<p>The captain, though filled with wonder at this sudden -order, did not pause to ask reasons for it, but bowed -low before his lord and left the room. A moment later -the clatter of horses’ hoofs on the paved court indicated -that he had departed.</p> - -<p>The King turned to his counselors and said: “It is -my will that the reserves be called to arms and that all -the regular troops be gathered at Persepolis. We shall -march without delay upon the usurper. Secrecy and -swiftness must be observed. Let us seize the wretch -before he may gather an army to oppose us. What say -you?”</p> - -<p>“That is my word!” answered Otanes.</p> - -<p>“And mine!” added Hydarnes.</p> - -<p>“And mine!” said Vomisces.</p> - -<p>“Then let it be done! Let every able-bodied man in -your several districts be called. I will send orders to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_263">[263]</span> -the Governor of Bactra to call out the reserves and to -march to Rhages with the Bactrian troops. He will -bring two hundred thousand men. We should march -from Persepolis with no less. I wish that my son were -here! We shall need him.”</p> - -<p>After further consultation as to details, the nobles -departed. Scores of messengers, riding at breakneck -speed, penetrated to distant hamlets and summoned -every man of the military class to Persepolis. Stores of -weapons and provisions were quickly gathered. The -great plain near Persepolis quickly became populous -with men and impedimenta. All Iran was stirred with -the excitement of coming war; but none knew why they -were called, save that it was on the King’s business.</p> - -<p>On the tenth day two hundred thousand men stood in -line on the plain near the Araxes for review, and their -gray-bearded King rode along their serried ranks and -saw that they were ready and eager to march. They -saw that the face of the monarch was serious and filled -with anxiety, and they guessed that they were about to -engage in a civil war. The King did not enlighten them. -A messenger had come from Captain Arios at Susa, -stating that he had found Captain Mardux and his -men who had escorted Athura to Susa, but that the -Princess had gone forward towards Hamadan the day -before his arrival. The King was disappointed and -anxious. Having ordered that the march begin next -day, he returned to his palace.</p> - -<p>At sundown of that same day, Gobryas and half a -dozen weary troopers arrived in the camp and after -hasty greetings to the generals in command went direct -to the King. The King was on his portico, reclining on -a couch so placed that he could watch the glories of the -setting sun, while near him sat the Queen engaged upon<span class="pagenum" id="Page_264">[264]</span> -some needlework. Recognizing Gobryas in spite of his -unshaven and dusty condition, Hystaspis rose with an -exclamation of surprise and went down the steps to meet -and embrace him.</p> - -<p>“It rejoices my soul to see you, noble Gobryas!” he -said. “Whence come you? What of my son?”</p> - -<p>“Gracious King, I have come from Syria by way of -Babylon and the lower roads,” answered Gobryas. -“Your son was well when I, obedient to his commands, -left him to come hither.”</p> - -<p>“Praise be to Ahura-Mazda! What of the King?”</p> - -<p>“Cambyses is dead. There is no king other than you, -O King Hystaspis! I greet you King of Kings and -Lord of Lords!”</p> - -<p>He bent his knee and kissed the King’s hand. But -Hystaspis raised him up, saying: “Not yet, my son! -The nobles of all Iran must be consulted. We had -heard rumors of the death of Cambyses, but were not -sure.”</p> - -<p>“Cambyses is dead. I saw him stab himself before -all the army when messengers came into camp proclaiming -Bardya King. Yea, truly he is dead and the world -is better for it! As for this traitor at Hamadan, I have -come direct from your son to announce that he is not -Bardya but a false usurper. I perceive you have already -learned his true character and are ready to march -against him. I have letters from the Prince. Even -now he is drawing near to Babylon with his ten thousand -men of the Guard.”</p> - -<p>He produced a packet from his belt and gave it to the -King.</p> - -<p>“Come,” said the King, leading him up on the portico -where the Queen waited. “You shall be refreshed at -my own table and shall stay in our palace this night. I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_265">[265]</span> -have much to ask concerning our son and of the war in -Egypt and of the death of the King.”</p> - -<p>Gobyras bent low before the Queen, kissed her hands -extended to him in cordial welcome, and said: “Queen -of the World, I give you love and greetings from the -Prince. Daily has he spoken of you. I bear a letter -for you. I have another for the Princess Athura. But, -alas! Otanes has explained to me how she has gone into -the power of that Gaumata!”</p> - -<p>The Queen took from Gobyras the packet he handed -to her, and then, placing her hands on his shoulders, -drew him down and kissed both his cheeks, saying: -“My son’s blood-brother is my son! Welcome home! -How weary you are! You shall rest in the Prince’s -own apartment this night.”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_266">[266]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XVIII<br /> - - -<small>THE SPIDER’S WEB</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">CAPTAIN MARDUX and his troopers felt themselves -highly honored as escorts of the highest born -and most beautiful woman in the world, when they departed -from Persepolis with the Princess Athura. -When she chose to ride a horse, the captain knelt that -she might place one small foot on his knee and thence -leap into the saddle. When she chose to ride in a litter, -the captain had difficulty in choosing from the many -volunteers those who should be carriers. He had to be -severe in denying some the right to stand guard around -her tent as she slept, since all could not do so. These -hard-fisted, hard-riding sons of Persia deemed themselves -guardians of a goddess; and all of them were her -devotees. Her journey was a pleasant pastime.</p> - -<p>They arrived at Susa on the sixth day and were met -by the governor of the city with all his chief officials. -They conducted the Princess to the royal palace, where -she rested a day. The city was gayly decorated in her -honor. Then a company of Medean cavalry, under command -of a noble Mede, relieved Captain Mardux and -his men of their charge, and with them the Princess continued -her journey towards Hamadan. From Susa to -Behistun the road was better and the pace more rapid. -On the tenth day they stood beneath the shadow of the -great rock and were about to turn eastward across the -mountains, when a courier met them, bearing a letter,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_267">[267]</span> -informing Athura that King Bardya had gone to a castle -in Nicæa on a hunting-trip and asking her to come to -him there. Athura and her escort therefore took a road -leading northerly into Western Medea. Thus it came -about that Captains Arios and Mardux, pushing forward -in desperate haste to rescue the Princess from the -usurper, and supposing that she had gone direct to -Hamadan, missed her by turning to the right at Behistun -two hours after she and her train had disappeared in the -northern hills. Thus it came about also that the Prince -of Iran and his weary ten thousand, having avoided -Babylon on the right and Susa on the left, lest they -should meet with opposition and be delayed, when they -reached the great highway between Persepolis and Susa -and learned that the Princess had gone northward to -Hamadan, delayed not to await the coming of the Persian -army but also turned northward.</p> - -<p>Athura’s heart beat high with anticipated pleasure. -A decree had been published in Susa announcing the -death of Cambyses in Syria and the peaceful adherence -of the King’s army to Bardya. Civil war would thus -be averted. Her beloved brother would doubtless call -the Prince of Iran to be his chief counselor, the second -man in the empire. Nothing would hinder her marriage -to him. The future seemed indeed bright with promise. -The Medean escort was attentive and obedient to her -slightest wish. At Nicæa a second message awaited -Athura, informing her that the King was at the castle -of Sictachotes, a score of miles farther north, and bidding -her come there. Here a new escort took charge, -composed of soldiers and priests whose appearance did -not at all please the Princess. She did not hesitate to -go forward, however, but she resolved that she would -persuade her brother to discharge from his service men -who resembled robbers rather than soldiers.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_268">[268]</span>It was late afternoon when they arrived in sight of -the castle or stronghold of the false Bardya. The -castle was an irregular pile of stone buildings on the -summit of a hill, the crater of a long-extinct volcano. -A small lake filled the mouth of the crater and on its -rim the buildings had been constructed. At the foot of -the cone and completely surrounding it was a high stone -wall through which a huge brazen gate gave entrance -and egress. The buildings were low and of rude architecture, -except one tower which rose to a height of fifty -feet and was about thirty feet square.</p> - -<p>The Princess wondered that her brother should bring -her to such an uninviting place; but, remembering his -passion for hunting, she had no misgivings. The great -gate swung open to admit her and her escort, and then -it closed with a clang. Having ascended the hill to a -level space in front of the high tower, the escort dismounted -and its leader came to assist Athura to alight. -But she said haughtily to him: “Go, call the King. -Why is he not here to meet me?”</p> - -<p>The officer bowed low and went into the castle, whence -he presently returned with a richly dressed official who -forthwith prostrated himself before royalty. “May you -live forever, O gracious lady!” he said loudly. “The -King is out hunting, not expecting you until the morrow. -But all things are ready for you. Be pleased to alight -and enter!”</p> - -<p>The Princess then dismounted and followed the official -into the castle. The room they first entered was -in the base of the high tower and occupied its whole -space. It was richly furnished with tables, couches, and -rugs. Draperies concealed the rough walls. Athura -had brought with her three maids. Several others presently -appeared from side-rooms and humbly awaited her<span class="pagenum" id="Page_269">[269]</span> -pleasure. The official, who proved to be the King’s -chamberlain, having called the servants, now said: -“My Lord the King will return shortly. Meanwhile, if -it please you, dinner will be served here. Let the maids -be disposed of in the adjoining room. Should you desire -to take the air, there is a pleasant walk around the -lake. If anything be needed, pull the cord at the side -here and a gong will call servants. Permit me to retire -and order your dinner served.”</p> - -<p>The Princess assented and the chamberlain, with a -low salaam, departed. Having bathed, and changed her -riding habit to one more comfortable, she ate dinner -alone. She was grieved and impatient. But she was to -suffer further disappointment. For at sundown a messenger -appeared who reported that a revolt had broken -out in the army at Hamadan, thus compelling the King’s -instant return to that city. He had departed at once, -but promised to return quickly and escort her in person -to the capital. He bade her rest meanwhile at the castle.</p> - -<p>Athura was furious. It seemed strange that her -brother should treat her thus. He must be indeed -changed from that former bold youth who would have -let state matters go to ruin rather than fail to come -to her at once when so near! She rang for the chamberlain, -and when that worthy appeared she inquired, -“Was the King here this morning?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, gracious lady,” he replied humbly.</p> - -<p>“How did he seem? Was he well?”</p> - -<p>“He seemed very well but somewhat nervous.”</p> - -<p>“I do not understand his strange behavior! Order -immediate preparations for my departure in the morning -to Hamadan! I shall go to him and ascertain the -cause of this neglect.”</p> - -<p>The chamberlain raised his hands in protest. He -shook his head and salaamed humbly.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_270">[270]</span>“I have an order from the King, gracious lady,” he -said. “It is that I safely keep you here until he return.”</p> - -<p>“What! Am I a prisoner?”</p> - -<p>“Ah, no! Say not so! But this is a very unsafe -country,—wolves, bears, robbers, and brigands! It is -not safe for you without a strong escort to go beyond the -castle-walls. The escort which brought you hither has -departed for Nicæa again, and only the necessary garrison -is here. Very sorrowful am I, most gracious lady, -but I dare not disobey orders. The King, I assure you, -will come soon.”</p> - -<p>“Listen!” exclaimed Athura, furiously. “I care -nothing for the safety of this castle! I order you to -prepare this garrison to march with me to Hamadan on -the morrow. I will answer to the King for you and -no harm shall come to you. Let the castle take care of -itself!”</p> - -<p>But the chamberlain again shook his head and wrung -his hands together in simulated agitation. “Impossible, -utterly impossible! The King’s orders must be obeyed. -You know not this King, gracious lady! He is a magician -who can destroy one, soul and body. No, no!”</p> - -<p>“A magician! What mean you? My brother Bardya -a magician? Since when gained he that power?”</p> - -<p>But the chamberlain, seeing that he had almost revealed -his master’s real identity, shook his head and continued -to wring his hands, protesting: “I meant only -that the King’s eyes were upon all and over all! But I -cannot disobey him, and—I will not!”</p> - -<p>He abruptly turned and left the room. Athura went -to one of the narrow windows and looked tearfully out -upon the yellow landscape of hill and mountain, on -which the setting sun was casting its last mellow beams.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_271">[271]</span> -Her eyes ran over the courtyard, the steep descent of -hill, the high wall below with its brazen gate and its -sentries, posted at intervals on the top. A great loneliness -seized upon her, a cold dread of impending evil -gripped her heart, and a terror of unknown forces that -seemed to surround her. Turning from the window, she -met the eyes of one of the maids compassionately watching -her. The expression of her face caught Athura’s -attention. Repressing her tears lest the servants should -deem her weak, she addressed the maid:</p> - -<p>“What is your name?”</p> - -<p>“Lauretha, gracious mistress,” was the answer.</p> - -<p>“Who are you and whence come you?”</p> - -<p>“I am a daughter of the captain of the guard, and I -came from Nicæa hither.”</p> - -<p>“Tell me, whose is this castle and how came my -brother here? He has been acting most unbrotherly to -me. Have you a brother whom you love most dearly? -And would he call you to a place like this and then not -meet you, or run away to the city without visiting you?”</p> - -<p>The girl’s eyes filled with tears. The beauty and engaging -personality of Athura had already made a deep -impression upon her. She had heard in the old days of -this beautiful daughter of Cyrus as a very goddess of -wisdom and beauty. Now that she beheld her, she was -her devotee. She drew nearer and, kneeling, caught -hold of the hem of Athura’s dress and kissed it.</p> - -<p>“Gracious Queen of the World, I am but a humble -girl,” she said, sobbing: “My parentage is not even -noble. But I place my soul and body at your service! -Let me make confession to you and I will trust in your -forgiveness for my enforced service here. If you will -follow me to the chamber above, where you are to sleep -and where we may be alone, I will tell you the secret of -your situation.”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_272">[272]</span>“Arise and be assured of my good-will. I will follow -you,” answered the Princess, touched by the girl’s -devotion and wondering what she meant.</p> - -<p>The girl rose and, going to a curtained door at one -side of the room, pulled aside the curtain and guided -the Princess up a narrow stairway, in the thick stone -wall, to a chamber above and of the same size and as -richly furnished as that below. Here the Princess seated -herself on a divan and the girl again knelt at her feet on -the floor.</p> - -<p>“Tell me what you mean,” said Athura, kindly.</p> - -<p>“I know the man who calls himself Bardya. He -owns this castle,” said the girl, speaking rapidly. “I -also have seen your brothers, both the great Cambyses, -the King, and the strong, happy Prince Bardya. That -was years ago when I lived in Hamadan and my father -was a soldier of the palace-guard under the noble Otanes. -I also know the regent, Patatheites, whom Cambyses, -the Great King, left to rule in Medea. O gracious lady, -it breaks my heart to tell you! But I know that Bardya, -your brother, is dead and this one who calls himself -Bardya is none other than Gaumata, priest of the Magi, -whose ears Cyrus, the Great King, cut off! I have seen -Gaumata and Patatheites together. I know that Gaumata -pretends to be Bardya. The chamberlain is one -of his tribe. This great tower is a fire-worshiper’s -shrine and on its top is an altar on which fire is kept -burning. I know not why I tell you this, except that -when I look upon your face I love and worship you. -O that I might save you! I fear this prison is intended -to be your tomb!”</p> - -<p>Athura sat very still during this revelation. Her -head seemed to reel. The earth and all her golden castles -seemed whirling and falling. Of course Bardya<span class="pagenum" id="Page_273">[273]</span> -would have come to meet her! She knew the girl was -telling the truth. Fool, to be so easily beguiled! -Bardya really dead! The old sorrow resurged in her -soul. Death or worse her fate! She sat still and silent -a long time in wide-eyed despair while the maid at her -feet with bowed head wept bitterly. Presently she -sighed deeply and asked, “Why do you weep, little sister?”</p> - -<p>“Because of your cruel fate, gracious lady,” replied -the maid. “You know not the magic power of these -priests! Even now they may know that I have told -this to you and even now they may be preparing the torture -chamber for me. They are terrible men! They -deal with the demons of the hills and mountains. -They sacrifice to them, even offering up human lives -sometimes. They are able to read one’s thoughts. -They bring up the dead and make them talk. Only -Ahura-Mazda can protect you, and I know not if He -will!”</p> - -<p>“Be comforted, child,” said Athura, calmly. “Let us -escape in some manner. Once before I fled from a -prison when Cambyses would have slain me. Is there -no way of escape?”</p> - -<p>“I know of none. These walls have secret doors. I -have seen Gaumata appear in these rooms even without -opening a door. But he is a magician. I do not know -the secret doors. If we could escape from this castle, -the great wall and its watch is there.”</p> - -<p>“You said that your father is captain of the guard. -Might he not assist us?”</p> - -<p>“I know not. He fears the Magi. His father was a -tenant of this Gaumata who, for his faithfulness, has -promised him great fortune and a high command. But -he is a brave man and a good father.”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_274">[274]</span>“Such a man must have a good heart. We shall talk -with him presently.”</p> - -<p>“But these magicians,—is it not useless to strive -against them? They look one in the eye and point -their fingers and say, ‘You are a dog! Bark!’ And -that one gets down on his hands and acts like a dog and -barks. Or they will say to you that at a certain hour -you must do something they order; and, at that hour, -you must do it! They put spells on men, and such men -thereafter have no power. Oh, it is dreadful, how at -night they call up and talk with the dead. The evil -spirits help them.”</p> - -<p>“I have seen their spell-working, child. But this I -know, as the great teacher, Belteshazzer, said, they can -do no harm to those who love truth and serve the true -and only God. For He sends mighty spirits of good intent -who encamp about the good and who drive away the -evil ones. Fear not, child, I dread not this Gaumata -and all his evil powers. He shall not harm us. When -does your father have liberty so that he might come -to us?”</p> - -<p>“At sundown he changes the guard. Thereafter he -may come.”</p> - -<p>The girl went to a window and looked down into the -court below. She then clapped her hands softly and motioned -to some one below.</p> - -<p>“Ah, there he stands now!” she said. “He has -looked up and will come here. I will meet him.”</p> - -<p>She ran down the narrow stair, and presently her voice -and the heavier tones of a man’s voice were heard in -conversation. Athura seated herself on a divan in such -position that the rays of the setting sun, passing through -the open window, rested upon her face and hair, giving -to her regal beauty a halo like that of a goddess. A<span class="pagenum" id="Page_275">[275]</span> -moment later the maid reappeared, followed by a powerfully -built man whose helmet and breastplate were resplendent -in gold and jewels. His face was strong and -bold, the countenance of one accustomed to command, -but now it was clouded and sullen.</p> - -<p>“This is my father, Gustasp, gracious mistress,” said -the maid, presenting him.</p> - -<p>The man looked an instant into the eyes of the Princess. -Then his hand quickly removed his helmet. -Wonder, admiration, recognition, and awe expressed -themselves in his countenance. He prostrated himself -at her feet. He had known the kingly Cyrus and the -high glance of his eye, before which the most rebellious -of men had quailed; and here was the image of Cyrus, -softened and beautified in the feminine, but, none the -less, with his lofty, commanding spirit, gazing upon him -from eyes whose glance he could not return.</p> - -<p>“Hail, gracious daughter of Cyrus!” he mumbled, -striking the rug-covered floor with his forehead. “I -await your commands!”</p> - -<p>“I have seen you before, Captain Gustasp, when my -father lived and Bardya, my brother, and I played in -the park at Hamadan. Is it not so? Arise and answer!”</p> - -<p>The soldier rose and stood in deferential attitude before -his fair interlocutor.</p> - -<p>“I remember, most royal lady,” he stammered.</p> - -<p>“If I mistake not I rode on that broad back of yours, -and you made for me a right-spirited horse.”</p> - -<p>The strong features of the soldier quivered as memory -brought back those days, when he, as one of the guards -on duty at the King’s palace, not only watched over the -safety of the children of the King but played with them. -Halcyon days! The tears started to his eyes.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_276">[276]</span>“I remember,” he answered.</p> - -<p>“And now I am your prisoner!”</p> - -<p>Again the man fell with his face to the floor. “Say -not so, Queen of the World!” he exclaimed. “Rather -am I your humble slave. If you will let me speak, I -will explain.”</p> - -<p>“Say on!”</p> - -<p>He raised his head from the floor but continued to -kneel, while he spoke rapidly: “After I returned from -the funeral of the royal Cyrus, I was not in favor with -the Great King, Cambyses. His dislike for me arose -when he and your royal brother, Bardya, and you, -played together as children and, by the express order -of good King Cyrus, I watched that Cambyses did not -use violence upon you and the younger brother. He -swore, then, that when he came to man’s estate I should -die. When, therefore, the guards were called to Hamadan -and dismissed by him, I fled; and, luckily, I escaped -before his order for my execution could be fulfilled. -I came to these mountains and was concealed by the -Magian priests who had been friends of my father. -Then I heard, gracious lady, that both you and Prince -Bardya had been foully murdered by King Cambyses; -and I wept much. For I loved you and Bardya when -you were children. For me the light of the world grew -dim. Wonder not, therefore, that I willingly served -Gaumata when he overthrew Cambyses. Had not Cambyses -slain those I loved and also sought to slay me? I -did not know you when you entered here yesterday. -You were veiled. My information was that the King’s -wife was coming hither; and I dreamed not that you -were she. May Ahriman wither my soul if I speak not -the truth!”</p> - -<p>His daughter sank upon the floor by her father’s side, -exclaiming, “Truly he speaks truth, gracious mistress!”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_277">[277]</span>A wave of sympathy swept over the beautiful countenance -of the Princess. Impulsively she arose, bent -over, and touched the man’s forehead with her hand, -saying: “I believe you, my good Gustasp. Ah, those -were pleasant days, the days of my childhood. But -they have gone to return no more. The bloody hand of -death has taken my father and brothers. Only I, of all -the royal house of Cyrus, remain; and I am a prisoner to -this man, Gaumata. But what now? To whom, O -Gustasp, do you owe allegiance?”</p> - -<p>The man did not hesitate. “There is only one sovereign -on earth for me, the divine daughter of Cyrus!” -he answered passionately. “Had I not believed you -dead, I would never have entered the service of Gaumata.”</p> - -<p>“I am in your hands. What do you advise?”</p> - -<p>“You are safe in my hands, gracious Queen! I will -guard you with my life. But I am slow of wit and not -good at making plans. I can execute orders but not -make them.”</p> - -<p>Athura smiled upon the kneeling giant.</p> - -<p>“You may arise and be seated there near the door,” -she said. “Let us think of some plan. How many men -have you in this castle?”</p> - -<p>Gustasp rose and sat on a stool near the door.</p> - -<p>“Four hundred and twenty,” he answered.</p> - -<p>“Are they trustworthy?”</p> - -<p>“Not against Gaumata. They are his personal followers. -But they are a brave and reckless lot. Some -of them have been brigands all their lives, until called -hither by the new King’s order.”</p> - -<p>“It is apparent to you, Captain Gustasp, that I am -no friend of this Gaumata. I have been brought here -by lying letters purporting to be from my brother,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_278">[278]</span> -Bardya, and I knew not the truth until your daughter -revealed it to me. Doubtless I have been brought here -to suffer death. For, as long as one of the house of -Cyrus remain, so long will the usurper be insecure on -his throne. I remember Gaumata. I saw him during -the last year of Cyrus and I heard of his punishment. -Now has come his revenge! But I shall escape. There -is one who comes from the west as swiftly as horses -may bring him. Do you remember the youth who -played with us in those days? That grave youth who -was a man even before he was old enough to enlist in -the King’s guards—Darius, son of Hystaspis, King of -Iran?”</p> - -<p>“I remember him. Has not his fame filled the whole -earth? All young Aryans swear by him!”</p> - -<p>“True! Had not Cambyses cruelly interfered, I -would this day be his wife. He took an oath to Cyrus, -my father, to support Cambyses and Bardya on their -thrones, as long as they should live. Death has released -him from the oath. It may not be that I shall reign -alone as Queen, since it is contrary to the customs of -the Aryans. The King of Iran is now the head of the -Achæmenian royal family and entitled to reign as King -of the Aryans. When he shall pass the bridge to heaven, -the Prince of Iran will be King. The world will then -know a just and mighty master. And I shall reign with -him. Then, Gustasp, I may be able to reward faithful -service. Is it not possible for me to escape? I escaped -from Cambyses alone, disguised as a youth. Have you -not a horse that I might ride away upon this night?”</p> - -<p>Gustasp was troubled. He gazed thoughtfully out of -the window a moment in silence. The red rim of the -sun was disappearing behind a distant ridge.</p> - -<p>“This is a wild portion of Medea,” he said presently.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_279">[279]</span> -“Brigands roam about. Traveling without a large escort -is dangerous. It is now almost night. For a week -there can be no danger to you here. I am in command -of the Guard. It will not be so much a prison for you -as a place of safety. To-morrow I will send to the -hills for one who owes his life to me. I saved him -from the wrath of Gaumata, who had ordered me to -execute him. This man will I send with a message to -your friends. He may bring help. The chamberlain -of the castle is a priest of the Magi. He was in the -room below as we came through. He is here as your -guard, I suppose. But this night I shall sleep at the -foot of this stairway and keep watch over you. You -are weary and must have sleep. My daughter, if you -will, shall watch with me. Perhaps to-morrow we may -think of a better plan.”</p> - -<p>Athura rose and went to the window, where she stood -some moments in silence, contemplating the forbidding -aspect of the darkening hills and considering the words -of the captain. She was, indeed, weary. She therefore -signified her assent to the suggestion, and the captain -retired. His daughter remained with the Princess. -The captain that night slept on the floor of the room -below, with his body across the doorway leading to the -chamber above and his sword at his side.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_280">[280]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XIX<br /> - - -<small>A GALLOPING TO AND FRO</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">THE dull, plodding peasants of Persia, Medea, Susiana, -and Babylonia wondered why so many messengers -rode at breakneck speed, on foaming, dusty -horses, and so many squads of cavalry galloped, along -the roads, during those last days of the false Smerdis, -or Bardya, King of the World. They loved not these -military men, with their over-bearing ways, their oaths -and blows, their lawlessness and oppression. But they -only sighed and remained silent, hoping but not believing -that some day the Great King would lift them up -and put the soldiers down. The shepherds on the hills -drove their flocks high up into the mountain fastnesses -and concealed them in gulches and ravines. For, it was -whispered, an immense army of Persians was marching -up from the south. No one knew why it was coming, -but it was safer to keep the flocks out of sight, lest -the hungry hordes should have fresh meat at their expense. -Rumors of war flew about. Some said Babylonia -was about to revolt; others that the Scythians were -threatening an invasion.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile at the capital city, Hamadan, confusion -reigned. Reports came from Persia indicating that the -King of Iran was gathering a great army. Then came -messengers from the army at Damascus relating the departure -of the Prince and the Guard. Patatheites and -Gaumata at once became uneasy and directed the governor<span class="pagenum" id="Page_281">[281]</span> -of Nineveh to march out and intercept the Prince. -Then came Prexaspes, who, knowing that he could expect -no mercy from the King of Iran and his son, -offered his services to the usurper, and was made commander -of the army and satrap of Medea. He advised -immediate preparation for war. Decrees were issued -to all the governors of provinces commanding them to -assemble their soldiers and bring them to Hamadan. -Heralds were dispatched to the King of Iran demanding -the reason for gathering an army at Persepolis. -Prexaspes personally went into western Medea, where -he had large estates, and directed that all Medean levies -from that section should gather at Nicæa. Then Gaumata -and Patatheites, learning that their ruse whereby -Athura had been beguiled into the castle of the former, -had succeeded, departed from the capital city to visit -her and make some treaty with, or disposal of, her. -They had barely departed when Captains Arios and -Mardux at the head of their combined companies rode -into the capital on horses almost dead with fatigue, -and at the palace gates demanded the person of the -Princess Athura. The commander of the palace-guard -was insolent and insulting. He even threatened to arrest -the blustering captains, who thereupon suddenly assaulted -the palace with their bold troopers, before the -guards could be warned, and gained possession of it. -The guards fled into the city and called upon the citizens -for aid. Captains Arios and Mardux searched the -palace in vain for the Princess Athura, but found and -released the usurper’s harem, in which was Phædima, -the daughter of Otanes. What next to do the captains -knew not. But the citizens of Hamadan, indignant that -a company of freebooters should dare to take the King’s -palace, soon gave them something to do and laid close<span class="pagenum" id="Page_282">[282]</span> -siege to them in it. They were not to be dislodged, however, -and held the citizens at bay, trusting that they -would presently be rescued by the King of Iran.</p> - -<p>The Prince of Iran, having marched by a short route -across northern Arabia, avoided Babylon on the right -and Susa on the left and arrived upon the great highway -between Persepolis and the latter city, where, as -narrated, he received information that led him to march -at once to Susa, intent upon aiding in the rescue of -the Princess Athura. He seized Susa and deposed its -governor, who was a Mede in the service of Gaumata. -He paused here two days to rest and refit his command, -meanwhile sending scouts northward to gain information -concerning the movements of the usurper. Then a body -of Persians, constituting the advance corps of the Persian -army, having arrived, the Prince left a garrison in -the city and with about twenty thousand men hurried -northward on the road to Hamadan, intent upon capturing -that city before Gaumata could prepare for resistance. -On the first day out he was met by the messenger from -Athura, which caused him to change his intention and -march into western Medea upon Nicæa.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile the Princess Athura remained in the castle. -The messenger had been duly dispatched by Captain -Gustasp, who advised his fair captive to wait patiently -several days for his return or until he himself could communicate -with certain relatives who might consent to -conceal her in the mountains should it become necessary -to leave the castle. Then one day a company of cavalry -rode into the castle-yard and its commander, Captain -Galutha, displayed an order giving him chief command. -The next day a large body of cavalry appeared on the -plain below the castle and encamped, while several of -their leaders came up to the castle. Two of these, before<span class="pagenum" id="Page_283">[283]</span> -whom all others bowed to the earth, were Gaumata, the -usurper, and his chief counselor, Patatheites. The -Princess Athura observed these men with dread. She -recognized them and knew that a crisis in her affairs had -come. Later came Captain Gustasp in much agitation.</p> - -<p>“Gracious lady,” he said, “Gaumata has come! He -desires audience with you. If he attempt any harm -to you, I will slay him! So fear not. I am at your service. -Shall I slay him at once?”</p> - -<p>“No. Let him enter,” she answered, seating herself -on a divan at the side of the chamber opposite the window, -where the light was good and where every expression -of her countenance might be seen. She was calm -and self-possessed.</p> - -<p>The captain’s daughter stood at her side, trembling -and apprehensive.</p> - -<p>A moment later the door opened and the chamberlain -appeared, announcing: “Our Lord, the King, the Great -King, King of the World, and his illustrious Counselor!”</p> - -<p>Entered then Patatheites, with somewhat shuffling gait -and embarrassed demeanor, a tall man whose rich habiliments -and mitered head-dress indicated his priestly rank. -He bowed very low and touched the floor with his hands, -saying: “All hail, most beautiful Princess, Daughter of -Cyrus, the Great King, Light of the World! Live forever!”</p> - -<p>Following him came Gaumata, a tall man, with uncertain, -shifting eyes, a pallid face, somewhat resembling -the dead Bardya, a puppet evidently in the hands of the -real ruler, Patatheites. He was about to prostrate himself -before royalty, as was his habit, when, remembering -his high position, he checked himself and stood erect, -folding his arms in much embarrassment and agitation. -On his head was a vari-colored turban, around which -was a golden coronet.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_284">[284]</span>“I give you greeting. What would you?” responded -Athura, coldly.</p> - -<p>Patatheites coughed slightly and glanced at the King; -then, assuming a very ingratiating tone and manner, he -said:</p> - -<p>“The fates—I should say, the gods—have ordered -that this man shall be King. It matters not whether he -be truly Bardya or not,—the spirit of Bardya is in him. -It has come to pass that King Cambyses by his own -hand is dead. You alone, royal lady, remain of his -family. By right of birth you should be Queen of the -World. Unless you so rule, the kingdom will pass to the -King of Iran. It has been announced to all the world -that this Bardya has taken to himself all the wives of -Cambyses. That is true, and you yourself are included. -We come, therefore, to make a treaty. Consent to a -marriage with this King, Bardya, and rule equally with -him. Your presence with him will reconcile all Iran -and the world will remain at peace. You cannot rule -alone. He offers to share the throne with you. Let -him speak for himself. I, his Chief Counselor, have -spoken!”</p> - -<p>Gaumata, thus prompted, bowed low before her and -said in high, squeaky tones: “Years ago my eyes beheld -the most lovely vision of all the earth. It was -Athura, star of the morning, lovelier than the moon, -shining on a darkened world. My soul went out to her. -I said that I would one day sit on the throne of the world -with her and her slightest wish should be my law, her -will my will, and that together we would rule the universe -wisely. Let it be so!”</p> - -<p>Athura restrained her indignation with great difficulty. -Should she temporize, or at once declare herself? She -remained silent a moment. When she spoke, her steady -voice betrayed not her deep agitation.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_285">[285]</span>“For this, then, I have been deceived and brought -hither,” she said. “It is a very grave matter. I require -time to consider it. I know there is but one other choice. -That is—death! I must choose between you and -death, unless something intervenes. Such presumption -as yours in the days of Cyrus would have merited death. -But truly has the situation changed through the wisdom -of God. How many days may I have to consider this?”</p> - -<p>The men glanced at each other doubtfully. Then the -Counselor spoke.</p> - -<p>“Grave events call for quick action. However, if -to-morrow at this time will suit you to answer, let it be -so.”</p> - -<p>“I shall require at least a week.”</p> - -<p>“No, no! You must decide by to-morrow.”</p> - -<p>“Must?”</p> - -<p>Her tone startled the men. In it were unutterable -scorn and menace. Gaumata shrank back. As she -looked now, so had he seen Cyrus and Cambyses, the -terrible. But Patatheites was unafraid and, knowing -the necessity of quick action, he was determined that -her choice should be made at once.</p> - -<p>“Forgive the expression,” he said. “We are desperate -men. So stirred up are the people that we must -act quickly. You said truly that you must choose either -to consent or to meet death. Rule the world or die! -Do you hear? But you shall consent!” He gazed -into her eyes with his flashing black eyes fixedly and -extended his long, slender fingers towards her slowly. -He trusted to his great hypnotic power to overcome -the powerful will that showed in her eyes. “On the -morrow at this hour you shall say yes!” he added after -a pause.</p> - -<p>Athura smiled derisively. Her eyes showed no less<span class="pagenum" id="Page_286">[286]</span> -will-power than his, and, extending her hand in a repellent -gesture, she said: “I say that I will speak freely -without being coerced by your devil’s power! Dog that -you are! I shall live to see your carcass thrown to the -vultures!”</p> - -<p>The battle of wills continued in silence for a tense -moment. Then the eyes of Patatheites wavered and -dropped. His hand fell at his side. His dusky face -paled to a sickly yellow.</p> - -<p>“Princess, again I ask forgiveness,” he said humbly. -“Well I know that the spirit of the great Cyrus, living -again in you, cannot be commanded! Let us reason together. -Being a woman, you can never reign alone on -the throne of Iran, or of the world. All the males of -your family are dead. The kingdom will pass to the -King of Iran. If his son were living he would make you -his wife, and thus, when his father dies, you might become -his Queen but not a joint ruler with him. But the -Prince of Iran is dead. He was slain in a battle near -Susa yesterday. It remains only for you to accept -our proposition and you will become joint ruler with -this Bardya and reign over the whole world.”</p> - -<p>The Princess made no immediate answer, but gazed in -silence on the face of the speaker, striving to read -whether he lied or not in speaking of the Prince. The -cold hand of fear clutched at her heart. Dread seized -her throat and almost stifled her. But there seemed to -whisper in her ear a voice like that of the loved Bardya -of old, saying: “Believe him not, little sister. The -Prince yet lives and will surely come to your aid.” She -was startled and looked around involuntarily searching -for the speaker; but no one, save her maid, was near. -Arousing herself with a great effort, the Princess again -controlled her agitation and said: “You are stating a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_287">[287]</span> -falsehood, magician! But, even if the Prince were dead, -it would not alter my determination. What? I, a -daughter of Cyrus, mate with that slave? Begone from -my sight!”</p> - -<p>The pallid face of Gaumata flushed in anger. Thrusting -aside Patatheites, he laid one hand on a short sword -at his side. “Woman!” he cried excitedly, “birth -makes not a man, but achievement! I am a noble of -Medea, of ancient lineage and royal stock. Centuries -ago my forefathers ruled the Scythians, who were once -lords of Medea. I have dared to seize the throne of the -world from your tyrant brother, and I mean to hold it! -I have offered you the right to share it. Choose! On -the morrow you accept or die! The world is not large -enough to permit you and me to live therein unless we -join fortunes!”</p> - -<p>The Princess was surprised. She had deemed this -man a mere puppet. He seemed to have some qualities -of a strong man. She spoke less bitterly as she -answered: “You speak somewhat kingly, Gaumata! -But you are a living lie, ruling not by your own might! -You rule only by reason of Bardya’s name. Do not -deceive yourself into the belief that the Aryans would -permit you to rule an hour, did they know the truth! -No! Rather it would be better for you to release me -and place in my hands the scepter and crown. I might -so far pardon you as to permit you life and property. -Think of this, my offer until to-morrow, and I will consider -yours.”</p> - -<p>“Until to-morrow then, farewell!” said Patatheites, -bowing low and backing quickly from the room. Gaumata -followed without the formality of a bow. Athura -sat a long time in silence after they had gone, wrapped -in thought, while the daughter of Gustasp stood in -silence with folded hands and bowed head at her side.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_288">[288]</span>The Princess turned to her maid at length and asked: -“What think you, child? The magicians were not able -to bend my will, though strong was the power of the -priest’s evil eyes. I felt my brain reel and I became -dizzy for a moment.”</p> - -<p>“I have never seen one able to resist him before,” -answered the maid. “Truly Ahura-Mazda has sent to -your aid some powerful angel!”</p> - -<p>The hours of that day passed very slowly for the Princess. -She spent the greater part of her time in the -upper chamber looking from the window upon the valley -below. She had little hope that any aid would arrive. -She was determined to escape from the castle at all -hazards as soon as night should come, and she sent word -to Gustasp that he must arrange for her escape.</p> - -<p>About noon two horsemen were seen riding at headlong -speed from the direction of Nicæa. They came -direct to the castle. They evidently bore exciting news. -For the King and his Chief Counselor were observed in -excited conference with them, and, shortly afterwards, -the King mounted a horse and rode down into the valley, -where his cavalry immediately marched away across the -plain towards Nicæa, and several horsemen rode away -in divers directions. Later the King returned to the -castle accompanied by an officer, whose elegantly attired -form and easy carriage, as he passed across the castle-yard, -seemed familiar to Athura. She sent the maid to -call Gustasp, whose duties now consisted in standing -guard at the castle-door. The captain soon appeared.</p> - -<p>“What means this excitement?” she inquired. -“Who is the officer that came up with the King?”</p> - -<p>Gustasp shrugged his giant shoulders. “The officer -is Prexaspes,” he answered. “He was chief man of the -empire under King Cambyses. He is in command of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_289">[289]</span> -the Medean army which is assembling down there in the -valley. I do not know just what news the messengers -brought; but it is rumored that they reported a strong -force of Persian cavalry moving up towards Nicæa over -the hill-roads from Susa. If that be true, a battle may -occur if the Medes dare to stand against them. There -are but a few veterans here and they may not risk a -battle. The Persian cavalry is terrible, especially if led -by the Prince.”</p> - -<p>Athura started up with joy, exclaiming, “By the -Prince, did you say?”</p> - -<p>“The Prince of Iran, yes,” he assented. “No one -knows, but I will bet my shield that he leads the Persians!”</p> - -<p>“Ahura-Mazda grant that it be true! What of you -if there be a battle, Gustasp? Ought I to wait till the -morrow? Or should I escape this night and trust myself -to the mountains?”</p> - -<p>“I have requested the honor of personally guarding -you so that you may not escape,” he responded. “The -King has granted my request. I do not know how to -advise. The new men who came in with Captain Galutha -are on guard. There is to be an enchantment, a -sacrifice, and soma-drinking to-night. Ahura-Mazda -grant that no spell be cast on us! Let me advise that -you stay in this upper chamber with all your maids. I -shall stand here at the foot of the stairs. We may need -a barricade. That divan and the benches may do. -When darkness comes, I will bring up javelins and -spears. I do not know how to get out of the castle with -you unseen.”</p> - -<p>“What do you fear?”</p> - -<p>“Madmen, drunken with soma! You and the maids -are the only women in the castle. Even the King himself -will be drunken and furious.”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_290">[290]</span>“Bring up the arms, Gustasp! You will find in me -no weeping, fainting child. We will fight this battle together!”</p> - -<p>“Then on the morrow we may need to defend this -place until the battle be decided down there in the valley.” -And he added fervently, “It will be a joy to fight for -you, O Queen of the Earth, and even to die for you!”</p> - -<p>Gustasp began immediate preparations for defense and -secretly brought up a bundle of keen javelins, several -heavy spears, and a huge bronze battle-ax, which they -concealed behind curtains and furniture. He also -brought a supply of bread and fruit.</p> - -<p>From her window Athura saw that preparations were -being made in the courtyard for the sacrifice spoken of -by Gustasp. First, a square altar of stones was erected. -Around this, at a distance of twenty feet, a circle of flat -stones was placed. A priest clothed in long robes then -drew geometrical figures with a sword-point on the -ground within the circle. Other priests brought out -twenty tall jars of soma and placed them at intervals -touching the circle. Still others brought wood and piled -it in four heaps at the corners of a square inclosing -the circle. Many soldiers of the garrison gathered -around, uneasily and fearfully watching the preparations, -but they were not allowed to come within twenty paces -of the circle.</p> - -<p>The preparations were completed when the sun was -yet half an hour high. Then the rumble and boom of -drums and the shrill scream of trumpets announced the -beginning of the services. A procession of priests, -twenty in number, headed by Patatheites and followed -by Gaumata, who led a beautiful white stallion, appeared -from the northern portion of the castle-yard. Seven -times they silently marched around on the outer side of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_291">[291]</span> -the circle of stones. Then they halted and a priest took -station at each of the jars of soma. Every one held a -large, keen knife in one hand and a goblet in the other. -The chief priest, Patatheites, took station at the right -of the altar and raised his hand toward the setting sun in -prayer. All the others imitated his action. Their invocation -was silent and lasted a full minute. Then -Patatheites placed a bundle of fagots on the altar and -again raised his hands to the sun, and his lips moved -in recital of an invocation. Instantly a spiral of smoke -ascended from the fagots and a flame burst forth. The -soldiers, stricken with awe, fell on their knees at sight -of this miracle. The sun-god had answered, unless the -dexterous priest, having a knowledge of phosphorus and -sulphur, had ignited the wood as he placed it on the altar.</p> - -<p>Gaumata now led the white stallion into the charmed -circle near to the high priest. The beautiful animal -trembled and sniffed at the altar and the blazing wood, -then raised his noble head and whinnied. As he did so, -the chief priest, with a powerful slash of his sharp knife, -cut the animal’s throat so deeply across as almost to -sever the head. At the same moment, Gaumata drove -his knife deep into the horse’s chest through his proud -heart. With a convulsive backward movement, the -noble beast sought to break away, but Gaumata clung to -it and its knees gave away suddenly and it fell. The -chief priest took a stone vessel and caught the blood -spouting from the severed throat. When the vessel was -filled, he presented it to Gaumata, who lifted it on high -before the fire and towards the setting sun, then poured -some of the blood on the altar and some on the earth -while he muttered a prayer. The chief priest then took -a bundle of rods, known as the baresma, and, dipping it -in the blood, sprinkled the King and the twenty priests,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_292">[292]</span> -chanting a hymn as he slowly performed his labor. -Then four of the priests attacked the carcass of the horse -with their knives and rapidly dismembered it. A portion -of flesh from the chest was taken by the King and -placed on the burning wood of the altar. The savor of -it went up to heaven just as the rim of the sun disappeared -behind the western hills, while the priests broke -forth into a barbaric chant in praise of Mithra. The -limbs and body of the animal were then cut in bits and -distributed by the priests to the soldiers. The piles of -wood were set on fire by coals from the altar, and the -men roasted the horseflesh at these and ate of it. Thus -far the ceremony had been conducted with some decorum.</p> - -<p>Then the bloody-handed priests dipped goblets into the -jars and brought them forth filled to the brim with a -white, acid liquor, the sacred juice of the soma plant. -First, the chief priest drank a huge goblet of the liquor. -The King followed suit. Then the priests drank, and -as they drank they began a serpentine march, following -the lines of the geometrical figures drawn in the circle, -weaving in and out and crossing back and forth, chanting -in time to their movements. The chief priest led -the weird dance. The King followed at the rear. Ever -and anon, as their movements brought them near the -jars, the priests replenished their goblets. Gradually -their chant became louder and wilder, and was addressed -to the gods of the sun, of the moon, of the stars, of the -earth, and of the seas, entreating them to be present and -to give counsel and wisdom to the King.</p> - -<p>Darkness fell upon the earth, but the fires partially -dispelled the gloom in the courtyard. The crowd of -soldiers drew well back from the enchanted circle, dreading -they knew not what, and fearing the unknown powers<span class="pagenum" id="Page_293">[293]</span> -of earth and sky. Suddenly one of the priests ceased -marching and, with a scream, rent the clothes from his -body. Stark naked he began to dance furiously, leaping -in the air, frothing at the mouth, and uttering wild words -of prophecy. Another imitated him and still another, -until a score of naked, leaping, shouting madmen, brandishing -knives and soma-pots, encircled the chief priest, -who, having drunk but little of the powerful liquor, had -remained comparatively sober, and who now took his -station with folded arms and bowed head before the -altar, listening intently to the ravings of his helpers. -The King took his place on the opposite side of the -altar and sought to preserve a semblance of dignity, but -he swayed to and fro under the influence of the liquor -or of excitement while he also listened to the ravings of -the prophets.</p> - -<p>The Princess and her maids were curious observers -of the ceremonies, but their curiosity turned to horror as -the last act of the drunken priests began. Nevertheless, -they watched and listened.</p> - -<p>One of the priests, bellowing for silence, stood before -the chief priest and shouted: “I am Melchior of the -Hills! Say to this King, he lacks courage! Say to him -that instead of entreating the proud woman in yonder -castle, he should take her by force, lest there come an -eagle out of the south and carry her away! Let him -now act! Now! Now! Now!”</p> - -<p>Another shouted: “I am sent from Mithra to say, -The day comes when the Kings of the earth shall meet -in death struggle! To him of stout heart and quick -mind will the victory be! Up and act!”</p> - -<p>Others took up the burden of prophecy and warning. -The chief priest listened attentively; then, calling the -King aside, he spoke rapidly and earnestly to him, pointing<span class="pagenum" id="Page_294">[294]</span> -up to the window from which the Princess was looking -down upon them. For a time the King hesitated, -then walked uncertainly towards the castle, followed by -the howling mob of priests, who stumbled, rolled, or -hopped after him. A moment later they were hammering -at the castle-door and the King was commanding -Gustasp to open.</p> - -<p>Gustasp, however, had not been idle. He had locked -and barred the stout doors and had reinforced them with -furniture piled against them. Now, as the King’s voice -was heard commanding him to open, he shouted back a -refusal.</p> - -<p>“Open, I command it!” shouted the King.</p> - -<p>“I will never open it!” answered Gustasp. “No -longer do I serve you, Gaumata, the false! I serve the -gracious Princess of the house of Cyrus!”</p> - -<p>“You will be torn in pieces! Open, I say! I will -have you roasted to death! I will afflict you with spells! -Open! I command!”</p> - -<p>“Never! I warn you that I will slay any man who -attempts to harm my sovereign lady!”</p> - -<p>The King and Patatheites took counsel and sought to -beguile the giant guard.</p> - -<p>“Listen!” said the priest. “We mean no harm to -the Princess. But she must marry the King now and -must march with us at daybreak to Hamadan and proclaim -their union. Open, and I swear she will not be -harmed, and you shall be the first officer of the army!”</p> - -<p>But Gustasp growled a refusal. He was not to be deluded. -Then began Patatheites to curse him and to call -down the anger of all the gods upon him. He cursed -him by the sun whose beams would strike him down; by -the moon whose rays would drive him insane; by the -rivers which would drown him; by the hills which would -fall on him; and by the devils who would ever pursue<span class="pagenum" id="Page_295">[295]</span> -him. So bitter and dreadful were his words that stout -Gustasp paled and trembled. With uncertain steps he -paced back and forth across the lower chamber floor, -fearing that from the shadows of the chamber half-lighted -by an oil lamp some specter might leap forth upon -him. A soft step came down the stairs and Gustasp -drew his sword. But it was the Princess. She came to -the trembling giant and placed her hand on his arm.</p> - -<p>“Fear not, Gustasp!” she said reassuringly. “Good -spirits are here around us! Those curses shall not harm -you. Ahura-Mazda has sent me a messenger saying: -‘Fear not! We will help you!’ Be strong and brave, -Gustasp. See, I tremble not.”</p> - -<p>The giant guard heaved up his broad shoulders, and a -cheerful smile passed across his rugged features.</p> - -<p>“Have no fear that I will falter, most gracious lady,” -he said. “Let them curse. If they come within reach -of my spear, their curses will stop short!”</p> - -<p>At length the cursing ceased. The King and the chief -priest withdrew a space to consult. Presently they -ordered a company of soldiers with a beam for a battering-ram -to break down the door. The stout planks -and bars soon quivered beneath heavy blows. Gustasp, -seeing that it would presently fall, retreated up the -narrow stairway to the upper chamber and proceeded to -barricade it with furniture. A heavy divan was pressed -into the narrow stair, leaving barely space at one side -through which a spear might be thrust. Tables and -benches were piled upon this. Then Gustasp, spear in -hand, stood ready. The door below presently gave way -and a squad of soldiers rushed into the room below. -Finding it empty, they immediately began to ascend the -stair; but, the moment one appeared in the narrow passage, -the long blade of Gustasp’s spear flashed down -upon him and he tumbled back gasping, with a terrible<span class="pagenum" id="Page_296">[296]</span> -wound in his chest. A second tried the ascent and had -his face slashed open. This cooled the ardor of the -assailants. They drew back to take counsel. No one -dared further attempt the deadly stair.</p> - -<p>Then Athura heard a voice, cold, calm, and ironical, -saying: “It seems to me far beneath the dignity of a -King of the World to be leading a drunken mob in -attack upon a woman! I say to you now that I for one -do not approve!”</p> - -<p>“Have a care, Prexaspes!” replied the voice of -Patatheites. “Such words to the King are not to be -spoken lightly!”</p> - -<p>“Bah!” was the rejoinder in a loud voice that was -heard by every man in the fortress. “Who are you to -threaten me? Do you desire to break with me? If so, -I will lead my Medes over to the Prince. I say to you, -stop this rioting and give your thoughts to the enemy! -If I be not greatly mistaken, we shall have the Persians -upon us before noon to-morrow. I will venture all I -have that the Prince is commander of that company -approaching Nicæa! If so, his coming will be like a -whirlwind. I am going down to the camp, and I demand -that the King go with me. I demand that no further -violence be attempted against the Princess Athura. I -warn you that if we injure her and lose this battle, the -Prince of Iran will flay and quarter every man in this -fortress!”</p> - -<p>His words greatly impressed all hearers and, after -further angry altercation, Prexaspes triumphed and the -drunken priests were ordered to return to their cells -while Gaumata sulkily mounted a horse and rode with -him down to the camp.</p> - -<p>Athura praised Gustasp and presented to him a gold -ring, which in after years the guard and his descendants -treasured above all other possessions.</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_297">[297]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XX<br /> - - -<small>THE OVERTHROW OF THE MAGI</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap2">ATHURA slept little during the remainder of the -night. She insisted on watching a part of the time, -while Gustasp slept stretched out on the floor and the -maids tried to rest. She watched while the stars paled -and the gray light of the dawn grew into rosy sunrise -and cloudless day. Her eyes eagerly scanned the horizon -towards Nicæa. As soon as the light was sufficient, -she saw moving bodies of horsemen concentrating in -the plain near the base of the hill on which the castle -stood. She had often seen large bodies of troops, and -she estimated that not less than thirty thousand were -there. Officers were busily riding hither and thither -placing them in line with their faces towards Nicæa.</p> - -<p>When Gustasp awoke and observed the movements of -the troopers, he gave it as his opinion that an attack was -expected. Nor was he mistaken. For about mid-forenoon -they observed two bodies of cavalry approaching -from the direction of Nicæa, one in advance moving -rapidly and the other more deliberately. The advance -body was evidently a scouting party sent out by Prexaspes, -and it soon joined his array. The pursuers came -on in wide, extended order, their masses glittering with -armor and spear-points. At their head rode two men, -conspicuous on white steeds.</p> - -<p>“Look, Gustasp!” exclaimed Athura, while the pursuers -were yet far away. “Is it not the Prince—the -one at the right? Is that not Gobryas at his left?”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_298">[298]</span>Gustasp shaded his eyes and looked closely at the -distant figures. He smiled and shook his head.</p> - -<p>“My eyes are counted good, gracious lady, but I -cannot see any difference in those men,” he answered. -“If I had eyes as young as yours, I might distinguish -them. But I know those are the Persians of the Imperial -Guard. The Prince must be with them. They -are not half as numerous as the false King’s men, but -they are veterans and the best soldiers in the world. It -will be a short battle.”</p> - -<p>The Persians came on until they were within a thousand -paces of their antagonists, when they halted. The two -leaders rode forward to a slight eminence two hundred -paces in advance, from which they attentively surveyed -the field. It was well suited for battle between bodies -of cavalry. While somewhat rolling and uneven, there -were no ditches or swamps. The Medean line was more -extended than the Persian and no less massive and deep. -The Persian leaders soon returned to their lines and the -watchers on the hills perceived a movement of the rear -ranks to the left, where presently a body of troops was -massed three times as great in depth as the general line.</p> - -<p>“The Prince has made a hammer of his left,” said -Gustasp. “Now look at his right! It bends back so -that the Medes may not overlap and attack the Persian -rear!”</p> - -<p>It was even so. For when the Persians moved forward -again there was a perceptible bending back of their -right wing until it moved forward <i>en echelon</i> to the -remainder of the line.</p> - -<p>Then came two men from the Persians who rode -rapidly up to the Medes and demanded a parley. -Prexaspes and the King met them and received a message -from the Prince of Iran demanding the surrender<span class="pagenum" id="Page_299">[299]</span> -of the Princess Athura and of the false King, and -promising pardon to all the other Medes save Prexaspes. -These demands were refused. The heralds rode back to -the Prince and reported, who then ordered his army to -advance.</p> - -<p>The Persians came on at a smart trot until within five -hundred yards. Then the front ranks leveled their -spears, bent their bodies forward, and pressed their -horses into a gallop. Prexaspes ordered his troops forward -to meet the onset. The earth shook with the -thunder of hoofs. A deep-toned roar went up from the -Persians, their battle shout which had terrified many a -nation. The Medes answered with a medley of yells. -The lines came together with a terrific shock. Men were -unhorsed. Horses reared, plunged, and went down. -Screams of agony mingled with battle-shouts. The lines -wavered and stood still, it seemed, for the space of five -minutes. Then was seen the power of discipline. The -Medes, while brave, were not inured to battle. After -the first shock, they became confused. They were overthrown, -ridden down, and pushed back. Struggling -fruitlessly against the terrible spears of their enemies, -they receded. The Persians raised shouts of victory and -pressed their advantage. The Prince of Iran, leading -the center, rode over Prexaspes, broke through the -Medean lines, and made directly for the King. The -latter turned his horse and fled towards his castle, with -the Prince and Gobryas close at his heels. So close was -the pursuit that Gaumata and his men had no time to -close the brazen gates of the castle, which were opened -to receive them, before the Prince and Gobryas with a -company of Persians pressed through and attacked the -garrison fiercely. Demoralized by the fall of Prexaspes -and the flight of Gaumata, the Medean army scattered -and fled from the field.</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_300">[300]</span>The Prince and Gobryas, swords in hand, pressed -through the confused rabble after Gaumata. They saw -him leap from his horse and enter the castle. Dismounting -they pursued him into the chamber below that where -the Princess Athura had her retreat. Here the false -King turned at bay, unable to escape. The Prince himself -attacked Gaumata, though Gobryas begged the -privilege of slaying him. The struggle was short. -The Prince was an athlete and swordsman; his opponent -was neither. Gaumata’s weapon was whirled from his -hand at the first blow, and the Prince’s blade passed -through his heart, cutting short his cry for mercy.</p> - -<p>Athura, trembling with excitement, had seen the battle -and the flight and pursuit of Gaumata, and, from -behind Gustasp’s broad shoulders on the stairs, had -watched the short, sharp combat between the Prince and -the usurper. The Prince, flushed with victory as he -stood above the writhing form of Gaumata, heard her -exclaim, “Ahura-Mazda be praised!” He turned and -their eyes met. He sprang towards Gustasp with -dripping sword, thinking the giant guard an enemy in -charge of the royal captive. But Athura pressed forward -in front of Gustasp, exclaiming, “He is a friend!”</p> - -<p>The Prince dropped his sword and extended his arms, -with the light of great love in his eyes. Athura threw -her arms about his mail-covered shoulders. Gustasp -and Gobryas drove back the crowd of Persian troopers -who were pressing in to aid their Prince.</p> - -<p>But a chief commander must make an end of greetings, -no matter how entrancing. The Prince and Athura -passed out into the courtyard, now filled with shouting -Persians, some of whom were pursuing the luckless garrison -and cutting them down. When the Persians saw -the radiant Athura standing by the side of their Prince,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_301">[301]</span> -their shouts rent the heavens. For every man who had -taken part in the battle knew that their leader was seeking -to rescue his promised wife, the daughter of the -great Cyrus.</p> - -<p>Prexaspes was among the prisoners. His horse had -been killed and had fallen upon him. The Persian -cavalry had passed over him. But save for a broken -arm, he was not seriously injured. He was brought before -the Prince. His countenance showed signs of suffering, -but the usual calm, cynical smile rested upon it -and he exhibited no fear. The Prince looked upon him -sternly.</p> - -<p>“At last, Prexaspes,” he said, “you have come to a -day of judgment! What have you to say?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing, great Prince,” he answered. “Fate has -turned against me. I am in your hands, a prisoner of -war.”</p> - -<p>“But how could you, a noble of Medea, conspire with -that carrion, Gaumata? And you even obeyed him as -King!”</p> - -<p>“I did not conspire. I was faithful to Cambyses till -he died—even though he did slay my son, as you know, -in cruel jest. I did not conspire against him. What -could I do after his death? By the command of Cambyses, -I had slain Prince Bardya. For that crime I knew -that I would be slain by you. So I came and offered my -sword to the false King. He obeyed me, not I him!”</p> - -<p>The Prince contemplated his prisoner gloomily. No -man ever more admired courage than he. Prexaspes -smiled in the face of death. What punishment should -be meted out to such a man?</p> - -<p>“For taking Bardya’s life, you have merited death,” -said the Prince, finally. “But you are a brave man. -You shall die as such. Tell me, Prexaspes, how did -Bardya die?”</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_302">[302]</span>“I expect to die,” answered Prexaspes, and the pain -and despair of his soul snatched away the smile from his -face, leaving his handsome features haggard and drawn. -“Remorse has been with me, since by this hand the stout -young Prince departed! I will tell you. Cambyses was -jealous of Bardya. His advisers, the Magian priests, who -by their wonder works had made much impression on the -King’s mind, also hated Bardya because he clung to the -ancient religion of Iran and was an enemy to their religion. -They knew that with Bardya as King they would -never gain power in the state. They hinted to the -King that Bardya contemplated rebellion. They artfully -brought stories of the young man’s popularity. -They advised his death. It was then that the King laid -his command upon me to slay his brother. The Magian -priests sent a body of their armed followers to lie in wait -on the road to Rhages that night when the feast in honor -of the Prince’s departure was held; and I rode with -Bardya that night until, as prearranged, they attacked us. -Then, in the mêlée, I struck the Prince with my sword -and he died. Was not the Great King’s word law? I -executed his word, without malice towards the Prince. -But I am weary of life! My wife is dead. Cambyses -slew my son. I have run the full course of power and -wealth. I am your prisoner, ready to die. But know -this, great Prince, I have never advised Cambyses against -your interests!”</p> - -<p>The Prince listened attentively and believed that -Prexaspes spoke truthfully. He turned to Athura, who -had listened to the recital, and asked, “What do you -advise?”</p> - -<p>Athura shook her head sadly.</p> - -<p>“I cannot advise,” she said. “Last night when the -drunken priests and the false King attempted to break<span class="pagenum" id="Page_303">[303]</span> -into the castle and do me harm, this man interfered and -compelled them to cease.”</p> - -<p>“For that, Prexaspes, I would pardon you, had I the -power,” said the Prince, turning to the prisoner. “I -could order you slain now, but I cannot slay you. -Prexaspes, you have deserved my gratitude. I grant -you life for the present. I am not the King. My father -is King of Iran. There is no King of Kings; until the -nobles of Bactra, Persia, and Medea shall select one of -the Achæmenian line. You shall go to Hamadan to be -judged.”</p> - -<p>“Rather would I be slain by you now,” responded -Prexaspes, earnestly. “Let me die a soldier’s death, -not the death of a dog condemned for murder!”</p> - -<p>The Prince was troubled. He hesitated. Sympathy -for a brave man moved him.</p> - -<p>“I promise you this, Prexaspes,” he said after a moment -of consideration. “If you will testify before the -council of nobles and to the people, that this Gaumata -was a false traitor and not Bardya and that Bardya was -slain by your hand, I promise that you may choose the -manner of your death. The King and the nobles will -heed my promise. They will not deny me. If you make -this confession and implicate the Magian priest, they will -pursue you with bitter vengeance. It is said that their -death penalties are tortures such as even fiends would -not inflict. We could not save you from them. It is -the ancient law that one who lifts his hand against one -of the Achæmenian race must die. Is it not so? And -this law, not even the King may set aside.”</p> - -<p>“It is so!” answered Prexaspes. “I will testify before -the people and the council, in order that your reign -as King of Kings may not be disturbed by other false -Bardyas. I advise that you carry this Gaumata’s head<span class="pagenum" id="Page_304">[304]</span> -to Hamadan and exhibit it in the market that all may -see. I myself will ascend the criers’ tower and confess -the death of Bardya to the people. So be it. I will -choose my own death.”</p> - -<p>“Meanwhile,” said the Prince, “Gobryas shall be your -keeper. He will treat you as a brave soldier should -treat a brave soldier unlucky enough to be a captive. -We shall rest here this night. On the morrow we march -to Hamadan.”</p> -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_305">[305]</span> - -<h2 class="nobreak">CHAPTER XXI<br /> - - -<small>KING OF KINGS</small></h2> -</div> - -<p class="drop-cap">THAT evening the Prince, accompanied by Athura, -ascended the narrow stairs leading to the flat top -of the castle-tower and, seated on the low parapet that -surrounded it, watched the sun set in golden splendor. -They found an altar of heavy stones, rudely squared, in -the center of the roof. It bore marks of long usage. -But the fire which had blazed on it for years was dead. -Only ashes remained.</p> - -<p>The evening was pleasant. The sky was a deep, blue -dome. The wide plain to the south, surrounded on all -sides by hills, the high mountains to the north and east, -with their sharp crags and peaks, with Elwend and her -snow in the east and Demavend far to the northeast, a -diamond point of eternal white, were of entrancing -beauty. The Prince for a time forgot battles and -marches. Athura forgot the long years of waiting and -watching. They were lovers now, rank and royalty forgotten, -man and maid, each glorified by the other’s love. -The sun stood still in the heavens and the hills rolled -up and concealed him. Darkness enveloped them, and -they were oblivious of all else than themselves. The -stars appeared, brilliant points in the depths of space. -The moon rose and drove the shadows from the hilltops -into the depths of canyon and gulch. A great owl -winged his way slowly about the tower and, alighting on -the altar, peered at them suspiciously. When they -moved he flapped away into the shadows of the hills.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_306">[306]</span> -Bats flitted hither and thither like restless spirits. A -wolf howled in the distant mountains. The low hum of -conversation came up from the soldiers gathered about -camp-fires in the courtyard. In such surroundings, the -royal lovers again took up and tied the broken threads -of life and renewed their vows to each other.</p> - -<p>Morning brought with it activity. The castle was -abandoned. The army marched to Hamadan. A special -guard of gayly-caparisoned officers rode near the -litter in which the Princess was borne, or followed the -horse on which, at times, she chose to ride by the side -of the Prince. There was no organized opposition to -the march. Bands of soldiers, which were riding to the -aid of the false King, returned to their homes, stunned by -the sudden overthrow of their leader. Gaumata’s head -was borne aloft on a pike-staff; and, in every hamlet -and village, a crier called the people together and told -them of the false King’s deception and death.</p> - -<p>So it came about that the cavalry under the Prince -and the infantry under the King of Iran came together -near Hamadan, entered the city without encountering -resistance, and relieved Captains Arios and Mardux, not -only of their danger but also of their soft living in the -palace of the Great King. But in appreciation of their -valiant service, they were promoted to higher grades in -the Imperial Guard and later they became chief officers -of the Guard.</p> - -<p>On the day that they entered Hamadan, Athura became -the wife of the Prince of Iran. The marriage -feast was held in the palace. After the feast, the great -nobles of Iran were called into the throne room by King -Hystaspis, who, sitting on the throne in state, addressed -them thus:</p> - -<p>“Nobles of the Aryan race, I have called you hither<span class="pagenum" id="Page_307">[307]</span> -to ask what is your will concerning the throne left by -Cyrus and Cambyses. By right of birth, I, the head -of the Achæmenian family, am entitled to reign in Iran. -I am King of Iran. But while Iran rules the world, -the victories of Cyrus established such rule and his authority -was paramount to mine. I am old and desire -to live the few years that may be mine in ease. I desire -not to assume the burden that must be borne by the -King of Kings. For I foresee that some of the conquered -provinces will rebel and that wars will come. -The line of Cyrus is dead, all save the Princess who this -day has become the wife of my son. It is my command -that all here speak freely.”</p> - -<p>Otanes stepped forth and looked about him a moment -in silence. Then his eyes rested upon the Prince of -Iran and his beautiful bride, who sat at the right hand -of King Hystaspis. He bowed low before them.</p> - -<p>“There can be but one choice, O King,” he said -gravely. “The royal power has ever been in the Achæmenian -family. As long as there are men of that royal -line, none others may dare to aspire to the throne. If -you, Sire, refuse to reign, there stands the well-beloved -Prince, your son, whose wisdom and valor are far beyond -his years, whose name is on every soldier’s tongue, -as the hero of his race! By him stands Athura, most -beautiful, most royal in birth. Has not your family and -the family of Cyrus united? Let Darius Hystaspis be -King of Kings and Athura, the daughter of Cyrus, be -his Queen! Thus will all the peoples be contented and -the world be blest. What say you, nobles of Iran?”</p> - -<p>A roar of assent was the response.</p> - -<p>“Let the crown of Cyrus be brought hither!” commanded -the King.</p> - -<p>A double crown, one part of which was silver and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_308">[308]</span> -the other of gold, studded with gems, was brought forth. -The King gravely rose from his throne and, addressing -his son, said:</p> - -<p>“You have heard the choice of the nobles of Iran, -my beloved son! In the presence of these men, I now -renounce in your behalf the supreme rule of the world. -Here and now I crown you King of Kings and Lord of -Lords. Rule wisely and well. As King of Iran, I -acknowledge you supreme Lord and will support your -throne forever!”</p> - -<p>The Prince, much affected, knelt at his father’s feet -and received upon his head the double crown, which the -great Cyrus had made as a symbol of his everlasting -dominion over the kings of the world. Then he rose -and sat down upon the throne, with Athura at his right -hand and his father at his left. The great lords of -Persia came and did obeisance to him and bent their -right knees before him. Thus Darius Hystaspis became -the Great King, and proved to be the wisest and greatest -of them all. For, to the military ability of the heroic -Cyrus, he added the wisdom of a statesman, the greatest -of his age; and, in addition, he was a lover of art and -science.</p> - -<p>On the following day, at noon, in response to the call -of public criers, a vast concourse of people gathered in -and around the public square or market-place in Hamadan. -Soldiers of the Persian army were massed at one -side. The nobility, men of note and strangers, were -massed on the other. In the midst, the public criers’ -tower arose forty feet in air, and from it, the people -understood, announcement would be made concerning -the accession of Darius Hystaspis to the throne as King -of Kings.</p> - -<p>The people were restive. A bitter factional feeling<span class="pagenum" id="Page_309">[309]</span> -had arisen during the reign of the false Bardya. The -followers of the Magi, being in favor, had lorded it over -the more orthodox Medes and Persians, had even prohibited -their worship, and had taken away from their -priests the revenues on which they lived. When Gaumata -fell and the Persian army entered the capital, the -persecuted ones in turn had come forth and assumed a -haughty spirit towards the Magians. In all parts of -Medea, as well as in the capital city, was the same unrest. -Men hated their neighbors on account of religion, -the most deadly hatred that men may entertain, and were -ready to slay each other. It needed only the excitement -of a great gathering to set afire the smoldering embers -of hate. The eyes of all turned often to the gruesome -spectacle of an earless head on the top of a pole planted -near the tower in such position that the populace could -see it. A squad of soldiers guarded it from being overthrown -by the pressure of the crowd. It was the distorted -and blackened face of Gaumata.</p> - -<p>At noon there issued from the palace a company consisting -of the Great King, his Queen, his father, and the -nobles of Iran, and they rode between massed lines of -soldiers to a position near the tower. They were received -with loud acclaim and clashing of weapons. A -trumpet pealed forth from the tower, and a deep silence -fell upon the people. Then Prexaspes appeared, accompanied -by Gobryas and two armed guards.</p> - -<p>Prexaspes was carefully dressed. His hair and whiskers -were curled and perfumed. His rich Medean cloak -was gracefully parted so as to display to advantage his -jeweled vestments. He was at once recognized, and a -subdued murmur of wonder passed through the crowd. -He raised his hand in graceful gesture, and said in a -loud voice:</p> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_310">[310]</span>“Behold me, Prexaspes, most unhappy of men! I am -about to die and let my death, suffered righteously, -attest the truth of my words!”</p> - -<p>He paused a moment, to let his hearers grasp his meaning. -Then he told the story of the plots by which the -Magi had influenced Cambyses to order the death of -Bardya and how he himself had slain the Prince with -their aid; how they had then conspired against Cambyses -and caused his overthrow and death; how they had -set up Gaumata, the earless one, to be King, falsely -representing him to be Bardya, and had placed the -Magian on the throne of the world; and, finally, how -the false King had been overthrown.</p> - -<p>For the first time the populace knew that the Magi -had slain Bardya and that a pretender had through their -plots usurped the royal power. Every man looked at -his fellow and laid his hand on the dagger at his belt. -Hatred, fanned by the speaker’s revelations, blazed up; -and a growl of anger passed throughout the vast crowd. -Prexaspes ceased at last and for a moment stood in -silence. Then he added:</p> - -<p>“I have told you all! There, on yonder pole, is the -head of false Gaumata! My hand is red with the blood -of an Achæmenian Prince, and by the law I must die! -By the grace of the mighty King of Kings, Darius, son -of Hystaspis, who is this day your King, I die as I -choose. I salute you, O King! May you live forever!”</p> - -<p>He bowed towards the King, who sat still on his -horse, sorrowfully contemplating the speaker. Then -Prexaspes calmly opened his cloak and drew a long, keen -dagger from his belt. He poised the dagger in air an -instant, then drove it to the hilt in his breast. For a -moment he stood smiling down upon the King, then his -knees gave away and he fell, headlong, from the tower<span class="pagenum" id="Page_311">[311]</span> -to the foot of the pole on which the hideous head of -Gaumata leered. A murmur of horror ran through the -vast throng. It increased in volume as the people spoke -to each other. It rose to a vast roar in a moment and -its burden was: “The Magi! They slew Bardya! -Down with the Magi! Slay the Magi!”</p> - -<p>There was a movement in the great throng. Here and -there daggers and swords flashed. Screams of agony -arose. The crowd swayed hither and thither. Then it -scattered, and broke into groups under self-elected leaders -who chased the frightened Magi and slew them -wherever found. A riot of bloodshed and slaughter ran -throughout the country such as Medea had not seen since -that day, hundreds of years ago, when the Scythians had -been massacred. Every man who had a Magian neighbor -assaulted him. The house of every Magian priest -was broken open and pillaged and its occupants slain or -chased into the hills. It is said that a hundred thousand -Magians died, before the King, with the aid of unwilling -Persian soldiers, succeeded in stopping the slaughter. -So deep-seated was the hatred of the orthodox Aryans -towards the Magians that on the anniversary of this day -hereafter it was the practice to slay every one of that -sect that was found on the highway. The King made a -decree that on such anniversary no Magian should leave -his house and that if he did so and was killed, his slayer -would not be punished.</p> - -<p>But the remainder of our story is history. The kingdom -of the Medes and Persians, or rather, the Kingdom -of Iran, the rule of the Aryans, reached its zenith of -power and glory under Darius Hystaspis, called Darius -the Great. Well did he deserve the title “Great.” For -he made laws for all the world save Greece and Rome. -His coinage became the world standard. The provinces<span class="pagenum" id="Page_312">[312]</span> -of his empire were ruled by kings. His public roads -and rapid messenger service enabled him personally to -supervise the general welfare of all his provinces. He -invited men of letters to his court. He engraved his history -on tablets and on the great rocks at Behistun and -Persepolis. He brought architects and builders from -Egypt, Palestine, and Phœnicia, and made for himself -and his Queen a palace at Persepolis, whose stately ruins -are yet mute witnesses of his power and magnificence. -He had to reconquer many of the nations of Asia, -which, because he was a young man and because religious -feuds had torn Iran into factions, thought to free -themselves. He redeemed his promise to Belteshazzer, -the great Daniel of the Hebrew scriptures, and caused -Jerusalem to be rebuilt, and he restored the Jews to -their country. He restored the ancient religion of the -Aryans and banished the false religion of the Magi, -the Lie, from his empire. He worshiped God, whether -named Jehovah by the Jew or Ahura-Mazda by his own -people. His religion was pure and lofty.</p> - -<p>But most of all did he love and honor his Queen, -Athura, whose praises the world sang in those days, and -whose fame has been preserved in various narratives, -none of which agree except that all ascribe to her great -wisdom and beauty. Together they ruled their empire -many years, and their reign was the golden age of the -Aryan race.</p> - - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<div class="transnote"> -<p class="ph1">TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES:</p> - -<p>Obvious typographical errors have been corrected.</p> - -<p>Inconsistencies in hyphenation have been standardized.</p> - -<p>Archaic or variant spelling has been retained.</p> -</div></div> -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE PRINCESS ATHURA ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg™ electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG™ -concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark, -and may not be used if you charge for an eBook, except by following -the terms of the trademark license, including paying royalties for use -of the Project Gutenberg trademark. If you do not charge anything for -copies of this eBook, complying with the trademark license is very -easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose such as creation -of derivative works, reports, performances and research. Project -Gutenberg eBooks may be modified and printed and given away—you may -do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks not protected -by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the trademark -license, especially commercial redistribution. -</div> - -<div style='margin-top:1em; font-size:1.1em; text-align:center'>START: FULL LICENSE</div> -<div style='text-align:center;font-size:0.9em'>THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE</div> -<div style='text-align:center;font-size:0.9em'>PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -To protect the Project Gutenberg™ mission of promoting the free -distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work -(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase “Project -Gutenberg”), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full -Project Gutenberg™ License available with this file or online at -www.gutenberg.org/license. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg™ electronic works -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg™ -electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to -and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property -(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all -the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or -destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works in your -possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a -Project Gutenberg™ electronic work and you do not agree to be bound -by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person -or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.B. “Project Gutenberg” is a registered trademark. It may only be -used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who -agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few -things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg™ electronic works -even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See -paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project -Gutenberg™ electronic works if you follow the terms of this -agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg™ -electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation (“the -Foundation” or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection -of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works. Nearly all the individual -works in the collection are in the public domain in the United -States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the -United States and you are located in the United States, we do not -claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing, -displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as -all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope -that you will support the Project Gutenberg™ mission of promoting -free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg™ -works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the -Project Gutenberg™ name associated with the work. You can easily -comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the -same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg™ License when -you share it without charge with others. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern -what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are -in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, -check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this -agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, -distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any -other Project Gutenberg™ work. The Foundation makes no -representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any -country other than the United States. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other -immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg™ License must appear -prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg™ work (any work -on which the phrase “Project Gutenberg” appears, or with which the -phrase “Project Gutenberg” is associated) is accessed, displayed, -performed, viewed, copied or distributed: -</div> - -<blockquote> - <div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> - This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most - other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions - whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms - of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online - at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you - are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws - of the country where you are located before using this eBook. - </div> -</blockquote> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg™ electronic work is -derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not -contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the -copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in -the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are -redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase “Project -Gutenberg” associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply -either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or -obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg™ -trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg™ electronic work is posted -with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution -must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any -additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms -will be linked to the Project Gutenberg™ License for all works -posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the -beginning of this work. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg™ -License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this -work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg™. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this -electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without -prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with -active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project -Gutenberg™ License. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, -compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including -any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access -to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg™ work in a format -other than “Plain Vanilla ASCII” or other format used in the official -version posted on the official Project Gutenberg™ website -(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense -to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means -of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original “Plain -Vanilla ASCII” or other form. Any alternate format must include the -full Project Gutenberg™ License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, -performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg™ works -unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing -access to or distributing Project Gutenberg™ electronic works -provided that: -</div> - -<div style='margin-left:0.7em;'> - <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'> - • You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from - the use of Project Gutenberg™ works calculated using the method - you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed - to the owner of the Project Gutenberg™ trademark, but he has - agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid - within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are - legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty - payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in - Section 4, “Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg - Literary Archive Foundation.” - </div> - - <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'> - • You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies - you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he - does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg™ - License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all - copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue - all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg™ - works. - </div> - - <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'> - • You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of - any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the - electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of - receipt of the work. - </div> - - <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'> - • You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free - distribution of Project Gutenberg™ works. - </div> -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project -Gutenberg™ electronic work or group of works on different terms than -are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing -from the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the manager of -the Project Gutenberg™ trademark. Contact the Foundation as set -forth in Section 3 below. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable -effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread -works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project -Gutenberg™ collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg™ -electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may -contain “Defects,” such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate -or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other -intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or -other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or -cannot be read by your equipment. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the “Right -of Replacement or Refund” described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project -Gutenberg™ trademark, and any other party distributing a Project -Gutenberg™ electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all -liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal -fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT -LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE -PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE -TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE -LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR -INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH -DAMAGE. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a -defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can -receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a -written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you -received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium -with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you -with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in -lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person -or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second -opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If -the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing -without further opportunities to fix the problem. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth -in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you ‘AS-IS’, WITH NO -OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT -LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied -warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of -damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement -violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the -agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or -limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or -unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the -remaining provisions. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the -trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone -providing copies of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works in -accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the -production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg™ -electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, -including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of -the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this -or any Project Gutenberg™ work, (b) alteration, modification, or -additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg™ work, and (c) any -Defect you cause. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg™ -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Project Gutenberg™ is synonymous with the free distribution of -electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of -computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It -exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations -from people in all walks of life. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the -assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg™’s -goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg™ collection will -remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure -and permanent future for Project Gutenberg™ and future -generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see -Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at www.gutenberg.org. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non-profit -501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the -state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal -Revenue Service. The Foundation’s EIN or federal tax identification -number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by -U.S. federal laws and your state’s laws. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -The Foundation’s business office is located at 809 North 1500 West, -Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up -to date contact information can be found at the Foundation’s website -and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Project Gutenberg™ depends upon and cannot survive without widespread -public support and donations to carry out its mission of -increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be -freely distributed in machine-readable form accessible by the widest -array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations -($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt -status with the IRS. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating -charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United -States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a -considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up -with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations -where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND -DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular state -visit <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/donate/">www.gutenberg.org/donate</a>. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we -have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition -against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who -approach us with offers to donate. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make -any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from -outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Please check the Project Gutenberg web pages for current donation -methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other -ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To -donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg™ electronic works -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project -Gutenberg™ concept of a library of electronic works that could be -freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and -distributed Project Gutenberg™ eBooks with only a loose network of -volunteer support. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Project Gutenberg™ eBooks are often created from several printed -editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in -the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not -necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper -edition. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Most people start at our website which has the main PG search -facility: <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This website includes information about Project Gutenberg™, -including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to -subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. -</div> - -</div> -</body> -</html> |