92 sunbeams. All around it, extending to a great distance, was a crowd of persons, whose dress and air showed their rank and importance. In one part of the field were the Rabylonian princes in their embroidered garments; and grave counsellors and judges, whose countenances were become serious by habitually attending to affairs of state. Not far off were the treasurers, who were intrusted with the wealth of the empire, and the sheriffs, whose business it was to execute the laws against criminals. In another part stood a company of men in shining armour, their swords hanging by their sides, and the crests of their helmets waving in the winds; these were the officers of Nebuchadnezzar's army. The governors of distaut provinces, too, were there, who ruled over many people of various languages and customs. Some had come from Persia, where they worshipped the sun and moon; others from Arabia, where the cities and villages were built On verdant spots or islands in the midst of deserts of sand, where fragrant balsams flowed from the trees, and spices perfumed the air. Some dwelt at
