• * 42 many things around them which had a tendency to divert their minds. Among these were the luxury and wealth, the dances and songs, the magnificence and ဒါow of the court of Nebuchadnezzar. There were also the splendid temples, the processions and sacrifices of an idolatrous worship, and the hoise, bustle, and hurry of a commercial city. Many of the young students probably yielded, in part, to these temptations, and neglected their studies. we hear nothing of them; their lives were probably useless and unhonoured. But Daniel and bis companions obtained a much more valuable reward for their good conduct; than even riches and worldly honour. They werė placed in situations where they could protect and aid their brethren, the captive Jews, in the city and provinces of Baby lon. They could influence the king to do justice, by punishing the wicked and rewarding the good, Their station at court would attract the notice.of
