SARCHEDON

BY

a
AOTHOE

MELVILLE,

J. WHYTE
OF

'

TEE

GLADIATORS,'

THREE

'

HOrSE.'

EOLMEY

ZTC:

VOLUMES.

VOL

LONDON:

CHAPMAN

AND

HALL,

PICCADILLY.

193

1871.
,

?a3

TO

HONOURABLE

RIGHT

THE

D.C.L.

LAYARD,

AUSTIN

MAJESTY'S

HER

MADRID,

AT

MINISTER

THE

FOLLOWING

ROMANCE

IS

AS

ADMIRATION

TO

OF

TRIBUTE

THE

GREAT

DISCOVERER,

WHOSE

SKILL,

THE

ARTS,

FROM

AND

ARMS,

WHOSE

HAVE

RECORDS

LEARNING

RESTORED

AN

Onslow
June

SEVERED

Gardens,
1871.

IN

THE

SANDS

DESERT

OF

AND

world's
LONG

THE

HAVE

RESEARCH

AND

COURAGE,

EXCAVATED

DEDICATED,

RESPECTFULLY

MIGHTY

NATION

PERSEVERANCE

IMPORTANT

LINK

IN

THE

HISTORY,
OBLIVION

OF

THE

PAST.

CONTENTS

OF

YOL,

THE

They

'

liim

SEVEN

watcliliim

STARS.

wakes

who

"

who

speaks

"

liim

who

is

watch]

They
silent

the

"
"

is

tliere

none

on

earth

who

is

not

I.

who

giiilty,

the

watched.'

Bhmldhatjosa

VOL.

him

Proverbs.

sleeps
less
blame-

SARCHEDON.

-fH^"

"

I.

CHAPTER

THE

Dying

desert

the

in

the
in

the

darkening
sand

tawny
the

"

deeper

in

Dying
a

the

sucking

the

desert

setting

in

^Testier

down

crushed,

fawn

unconquered

in

and

noble

the

whose

the

over

child

adversary

in

the

dread,

archer's

and

horse

grasp

mangled,

unyielding,

formidable

So

"

"

wide

between

dignified,

terror,

unweaned

"

him

sun.

battle.

herdsman's

on

above

sky

wheeling

grim,

"

savage

went

the

slain

the

morning

and

water

high

upper

and

"

monarch

the

of

like

out

poised

specks

two

hovering

lion

stricken

poured

"

orange

vulture

winged

like

waste

helpless,

and

limp

stretched,

"

in

BEASTS.

OF

KING

matched,

rider

like

fierce, tameless,
for

the

noblest

SARCHEDON.

champions
streak

of

of

and

buffet

half

in

with

her

"

the

for

the

wild

terror, half

in

the

on

thing

for

"

but

plain
faded

evening

wilderness,

the

ere

dusky

foul

to

scorn,

and

hopelessness,the

its

in

gradualty waning

eyes

trample

wistful

the

to

pleading
death

of

apathy

the long flickering

j)itiful
tongue, lickingwith
of
which

dog's homely patience that

the

pain

only because
the

knotted

height, sank
an

yell,no

time

darker
So
two

corded

down

again

moan

"

shiver, and

by

time

only
the

soaked

in dust,

the

pitifultoo

of

that

rear

with

long,

of

agile

but

half

writhing,powerless,
spade.

short

quick breathing,

occasional
and

of

effort to rise,

stained

his

lair with

jets of blood.
those

specks

on

the

huge soaring vultures,

brushed

to

agony

beneath

gash

emblem

very

thing
some-

limbs,

massive
"

endurable,

; and

sinews

the

"

earthworm

convulsive

that

and

which, strivingin

"

Xo

those

fatal

more

death-wound

tapering body

like

moment

every

was

muscles

strength
its

it

grew

prostration of

utter

lean,

tear

snorting,

and

spurn

red

of their

level

night-bird to

wincing

ass,

last

hoof.

Pitiful
of

the

lightlyagainst the

upper
while

sky widened
the

wing

of

fallen lion's mane,

into
third

as

the

KING

THE

foul bird ventured

hideous

emerged,

if

ing
coming banquet, croak-

by magic,

and

others

to

BEASTS.

its

nearer

invitations
as

OF

the

from

yet others, that

solemn

cloudless

heaven.
back

Far

into

clotted

by clammy
closer

defined, as
weary

his

on

reach
seek
nature

the

journey

here

last

remorseless
a

to die ; and

shelter
him

prompted

bird

doubt, thousands
his

quivering

morass,

the

between

scanty

covert

It

ago,

reeds,

those

or

wide

the

was

queen

and

all her

lofty porches
horse

and

of

ring

warriors

to

him

from

royal sport,
the

rouse

rock,

kingly
dank

cool

or

plains that

stretch

the

potamia
Meso-

of its

present

Euphrates,

royal sport,when

Babylon

"

bade

followed

by

glitteringtrain, defilingfrom

of

to

was

agony

of the ancients, the Naha-raina

A

beasts,

of prey.

Tigris and

migratory tribes.

wherewith

his death

shield

of

never

the

to

of
in

he

yet

instinct

"

Many

king

that

of years

haunt

end.

reeds

royal sport to-day.

lion from

-the

towards

travelled, the

he

of arid

patch

It is
no

they dragged
had

for

prints,
of foot-

single track

together,less sharp, round, and clearly-

furlong

the

spots, lay

there

and

here

desert, varied

the

the

bridle, with

Great,

with

the

tramp of

steady footfall

curled, bearded, erect,

and

of Assyrian

for-

SARCHEDON.

midable

with

"

in

gorgeous
with

patient under
the

wild

asses

their

bruised
their

with

aromatic

and

tufted

with

cloud

of

stint in her
and

game

hunter,

level

and

cruel

she had

Was

safety and

the desert

could

Eastern

falcon

the

lordly lion, sought

compromise

of retreat.

might

slowly and

move

in

savage

her

strike

of
no

wrath

and

speed

save

overtake

the

refuge
Driven

the

desert,
in

the

nor

horse,
left

were

of foot the
Nor

being?

nor

unawares,

her

when

save

spring.
the

grim

and

flight,accepted
his

from

sullenlyaway
on

ward
for-

unbroken

the

of her

glory

gazelle,

to pause

never

her

not

scant

sprang

pursued,

her fill from

monarch

fleet

back,

beyond

greyhound

latelydrunk

But

and

down

far

; the

till man
flight,

pursuer

of the horizon.

strength

bow,

laden

was

wind, tall,swift,

tucked

the

terror-stricken

hopelesslybehind,

turn

head

from

arrow

an

the

dust

yellow

air

spread her

ostrich

before

to scud

hot

the

of

herds

of wormwood

shoots

the

the

gold,

Scouring

rear.

jewelled troop,

broke

smell

the

in

that

beatingheart, and
like

the

burdens

and

statelyelephants,

-eyed camels, jolodding

flying hoofs, till

wings

ungainly, in

meek

before

waste

beneath
an

of

of

scarlet,pearls, and

of

trappings

stealthy gait

into

tread

ponderous

eager

but

no

covert, he
it

horseman

was

to

who

THE

approached too
to bend

near,

his bow

formidable

so

an

and

the

and

transfixed

the

the

royal tiara

wedge-shaped
miramis

the

of

stars

of

the

that

and

indicated

fainter
one

sand

drooped

by

one

beneath

those
of Se-

name

The

perishable was

indeed

eternal

mighty

frame

the first

as

the clear

from

fast

which

shone

bright
depths

fading below.
so

pure

and

lay spread out, massive, mysterious,

indistinct,in the shades

of

coming night.

there, huge piles of building loomed

tents, houses, palaces,and

glitteredand

torches, scattered
other

of

the

that

the

graven
cut

were

the

him,

shadowy against the sky ;

in

life-blood,

large red drops plashed

and

town,

of

conqueror
his

mate,

queror
con-

Queen.

Babylon

and
Here

monarch's

the

side to side, was

sky blazed

pitilessabove
Great

drank

of
the

even

man,

the

woman,

Chaldean

heaven.

Was

yieldbefore

must

tured
ven-

point-blankdistance
Nevertheless,

letters that

and

daring archer who

within

lion from

of

dying beast;

heavily on

the

BEASTS.

shaft which

the Great

Fainter

on

beasts; before
on

man

OF

enemy.

fiercest of their kind

of

KING

flashed

bright and

world

far below

these, amidst

gardens within
world

countless

above; while

vast

of

lamps
as

the

the
and
stars

rearing its head,

SARCHEDON.

like

ghostly giant, high

some

fortress,palace,and
that

seemed

to

bade

defiance

to the

Here,

of heaven

the

summit

heavens

the

It
as

with

rapt

student

reads
which

Assarac

the

book

amidst

warfare, glory, arts,

could

calm,

rious,
se-

all its

with

the
intellect,

with

that
act

and

and

ambition

therefore

supreme;

day,

of

the

of

in

tery
mas-

he

raises

his

man.

front

that

in

people,

gorgeous

magnificence,

attraction
to

"

lull which

trained

the
he

without

the

must

himself, night

constitutes

As

in

tiable
insa-

victory,seeking

worship is amongst

peculiar to

whom

pleasure,in luxury,

of

which

symbolical

some

for

man

one

"

stars,

key.

and

weapons

knowledge

in

that

arms,

but

furnish

craving

erect

of

the

priest,the

delightingin splendour,

The

it were,

writ

he holds

voluptuous climate,

and

attention

Assarac, priest of Baal, reading the

language of

rule

human

thought.

was

world

secrets, and

its

planets alreadyvisible,

forces,for the triumph

of

lumn,
co-

loftytower

of this tower, stood

abstracted, wrestling, as
mental

and

sky.

figure,gazing fixedlyon
scanning

obelisk,rose

demand

the

on

shaft

over

power.

all creation
he

gently
dili-

alone

genous
indistands

efi'ort towards

heaven,

bends

he

so

fear ;

in

in the

and

extravagant

his noblest

this viceroyof
aspirations,

ever

to

prone
his

false

worship

of the

religions,more

absurd.

to

earhest

and

power

the

celestial

pages

book

and

sky,

by

adoration

visible and

plains of

an

material
Western

night, with
theii- radiance
centre

that

to

the

students

deities

those

in

that

the

in

buted
attri-

present
lect
intel-

Man's

seemed

lifted

it at
the

luminous

the

on

soul

the

lamps

based
de-

scarce

least

to

cloudless

wai-m

of heaven

sages

distant

hoiizon, it
should

worlds

of

was

have
fire

the

wide-stretching

on

syrian
As-

flashing out

uninterruptedsplendour from

boundless
and

unworthy

scientific communion

On

heaven.

Asia,

plify
am-

propertiesof

future.

wTitten
his

while

to

thousand

affect the

could

as

purifiedby

of the

been

has

be less

certain

bodies

as

in

even

superstitionwhich

such

of Fate

into

could

of

nor

beautiful, poetical,and

they predictedthe

felt elevated
the

God

true

less

form

earth

allegiance,eager

one

or

knowledge,

less than

with

his

these, none

Amongst

that

than

no

in

waver

dust,

creatm-es, in abject

other

unstable,

but, wanton,

reasoning adoration,

his head

with

belly,like

his

grovellingon

BEASTS.

knee

the

down

cowering

neither

OF

KING

THE

no

the

wonder

accepted for
which

brain, hopes, thoughts, and aspirationswere

eyes,

nightly

10

SARCHEDON.

fixed

the

"

their

While

the

the

the

the

inscrutable
of

Ere

revenge.

that

which

could

on

began only

foretell,was

bias, to prevent,
Then
the

arose

or

with

and

moon.

process

of their

originatorof

with

course

events

assumption

an

credited

the

and

that

it
to

power

destroy.

boldest

irresistible

seemed

ancient

of the

nations
their

sublime

own

for the

strong fascination

Yav, Nebo, Bel,

The

through
Seven

Jupiter, Mercury, Saturn, and

the seven
t Eatlier
spheres, or

bition,
love, desire, am-

inevitable

an

duct
con-

and

Chosen

Ashtaroth*

worshipped as livingdeities,reigning and

revealing themselves
names.

of

notwithstanding

People themselves.
to be

to

policy,the

of

idolatrywhich

and

creed, possessed

these

web

instructor

the

soon

an

noblest

world, which,

came

the

long,by

as

their

in

changeless,passionless,

mind, the

to be looked

came

safety on

temples, kings

same

witnesses, for

human

the

the

and

progress

warfare, the fui-therance

or

to

their

stars, priests in

less

desert, relied, no

for

early mariner,

plodded by

he

driver, as

trackless

palaces,consulted

in

camel-

rude

night through

of

science, the exponents

arbiters of their fate.

history,the

than

of their

guides

the

Stars t

planets
were

that

bore

believed

to

Venus.
the

five

planets

with

the

sun

12

SAECHEDON.

He
his

yet

was

dark

middle

at

of

are

only

but

above

his

black

traced

temples

the

drawn

gold, were

his

he

leather

and

foot

linen, open

to

the

give the legs freedom

and

legs

deep fringe,also

edges, while
like the
the

looking out

into

the

he

one

stood

night.

so

was

characters

shoulder
erect

and

and

dered
borof

playing
discord.
re-

waist, and

it at the

and

to

as

time-honoured

white

of

in tissue

wrought

of scarlet tissue, hung

fell from

priest as

knee,

slight

gown

looped

at the

fastened

no

long

and

of embroidered

His

and

ample cloak,

an

gown,

breast

heavy

to ankle

to form

as

instep.

sentence

cord

fillet

bare, as

knee

from

silk,its arrow-headed

tasselled

by

for the

but

by straps

needlework

dark

many

already mingled

arms,

of action

cunning

scarlet

forehead, and

clusteringprofusion to

His

muscular

there

'eyebrows

tawny

crossing and recrossingso

protection for

gold

before

clasped their wrists, were

that

strong

with

of the

none

combined

hairs

in

sandals, fastened

wore

white

back

shoulders.

and

gold bracelets
were

white

few

the

in

deep

and

years,

bushy ringletsthat,confined

black

his neck

lost

which

lines

with

had

eyes

by

count

softness

life;

his

to

man,

young

almond-shaped

fire and

were

below

its

embroidered
trailed

hind
be-

motionless,

KISG

THE

solid

his

On

or

memorial

and

eternity.

If he

its

without

of

dominate

bore

He

and

this

caught

and

his

rapt

again the
attention

symbohcal
there

he
him

its

limbs

and
peace

sought

the

and

religionin
find

better

of

latelygathered,
verence,
superstitiousre-

freshness; though
smile

his full red

^^dth

lips;

the

and

mingled
but

keener

If he

gaze.

of

when

once,

scorn

he

looked

and

more

the

speculated on
plant, it

lore

that

was

nof

should

able
en-

his kind.

massive

two

knives

and

in his

girdle,though

muscular, his chest deep

erect, the man's

study,not

his

essence

lotus-flower

power

he carried

were

yet

end.

instant

his

to control

his head
and

in

geometricalfigurewhich

by chance,

next

could

control

to

as

could

nor

interpretationof

Though
his

eye

stars, he

something

curiosityi;\Teathed

aloft

the

that

in his hand

circle

mystic

fate, omnipotence, and

ineff'able

nor

to preserve

it

beginning

careful, with

was

of

supreme

than

the

clasps

winged figure,constituted

influence

of its ideal

neither

so

the very

on

graven

worshipped

aspirationsfor

has

its

power

golden bracelets,on

forehead,

symbol

their

emblem

his

his sandals, was

that, with

conceive

his

13

BEASTS.

earrings,on

the filletthat bound

that secured

OF

of action

habits
and

seemed

warfare.

those
His

of

face,

14

SARCHEDON.

all

for

indications

its

somewhat

too rounded

to hide

strives

unmerited

of

moulded

that

sealed

his

the

There

for Assarac

and

worship,

the

starry

tinually
con-

consciousness
no

on

the

firmly
-

too

was

remain

ever

the sacred

fire of
his

of heaven

canopy

of

sign

was

must

be

must

who

priestit

affections

his hearth

"

the

hearing

one

lips, nor

the domestic

book

of

overcome

well-cut
and

chin;

obvious

effort,as

and

flaccid,

effeminate,and

degradation.

about

beard

than

sustained

expression of

an

was
virility,

outline, too full and

in

perhaps unmanly

rather

intellectual

of

home.
*

what

And

his hand

have

towards

devotion.
in

What

for

exchange

the

manhood,

that

sorrow

are

in

bid

What
for

the brave
have
power,

of

and

such

treasures

compensation,
man

jon

the

and

cower

given
desire

me,
to

me,

as

the

others

guard

the

strong

my

gods

rule, the

ning
run-

wife,

of the

none

sweet

and

No

as

dignity of

the

breezes

me

gods,

my

folly and

the

with

defiance

of

youth,

like cool

all but

of the

None

but,

glow

common,

to

given

he, raising

above,

much

as

you

rapture

streams,
child !

quite

have
the

?' said

me

world
glittering

the

denoted

gesture that

given

you

ously;
jeal-

so

that

fears
man

The

no

quake.
thirst

knowledge

that

THE

causes

brave

and

in the

Euphrates

has

the

warp

scrolls

force

by

yet

is there

in

this

rules

the

the

foaming

enervated

lightthe story
the future

women

"

conquers

palaces

the

who

control

and

nations, whose

kingdoms

your

intellect

dominate

the

and

turns

Your

mine

are

in

me

is to

his

priest
"

his

phesy
Proof

shafts

your

come

"

these

"

indulgence.

and

the

as

dulled

are

ye

"

forehead,

plain!

fire

your

to

servant

you

bridle

powers

for

open

in this

here

struggles,his

that

the diamond

torn

compelled you

culminating glory of

destiny of

and

if he

down

forecast

priest and

and

which

indomitable
the

the

of that

strange

on

by luxury
Trace

to

the

war-horse

of Assarac

his

to

seems

reasoning

prophesy!

"

wisdom

cannot

I your

knowledge,

hurries

strength of

elephant, as

until these

senses

me

and

reeds

that

have

sheer

by

quiverlike

I have

something working

strength,your
mine

it is

future

hand;

of

breast, that

guides

me

his will.

gods indeed,

my

given

of the

secrets

are

and

to bend

destinies;

present to

reveal your

goad

have

knowledge

15

BEASTS.

before the breeze

and

lives

men's

OF

strong

You

its stream.

KING

show

growing

me

ledge,
know-

successful

counters,
en-

Show

career.

fairest, bravest, fiercest

of the

! whose

East

flashingeyes
all ablaze

"

set

white
towns

of

arm

and

beautiful,proud,

16

SARCHEDON.

and

Semiramis

pitiless
"

lord, the

king

of

his

sword.

scorn

and

rise

the

of

Even

while

ere

turned

they

short
graven

Queen.

grew

off in
a

who

spoke

on

his

rigid
his

royal

the

with

shudder
and

tiara

and

day

the

the

his
for

shaft

symbol

in

for

his

priest

splendour

all his

one

of

motionless

death-pang

to

and

and

your

line

shall

host, before
?'

dying lion,

side

arm

eternal

with

comes

he

convulsive

one

moan,

Light

right

and

of Ninus

pale yourselves,

ye

Lord

desert,

glory

gods

my

ruin

who

champion

Assarac

not

her

of

yourselves

monarch's

the
as

even

avenge

Shall

war-worn

which

before

pale,

unbelief?

the

on

not

ye

old

of his

strength

Shall

Queen

grim

power,

your

the

in

only

at

Great

the

nations,

scojffs,forsooth,
trusts

the

off in

far

quick

gasping
limbs,

mighty
ever,

the

breaking

on

which

of

the

was

Great

CHAPTER

II.

MERODACH.

boldest

The

and

wince

the

tremble

desei-t,

with
aside

lying

object

drew

two

sated

to

lazily

hopping

tinged
the

with

nightfall,

was

Ere

dawn

VOL.

I.

from

examine

and

the

it

gray
as

picked

nearly

had

streaks

they

horizon

to

;
to

fairly broke,

scared

he

birds

gorged
few

paces'

morning
and

and

the

the

bone.

and

dark
man
horse-

startled

of

flushed

him

low

the

work,

by

under

closely,

more

their

the

of

the

unconcernedly

crimson,

level

long

swerving
While

from

Already

horse

path.

like

unseated

nearly

good

of

surface

noiseless,

himself

terror,

vultures

the

across

the

to

courageous

blood.

and

swift,

his

rein

of

speeding

which

in

in

smell

found

wing,

violence

plunged

the

smooth,

the

on

at

too

never

was

rider

solitary

bird
the

war-horse

were

widened
dead

lion,

long

before

tance.
dis-

on

at

the

18

SAKCHEDON.

gold

bit and

on

sunrise, the traveller had

and

way,

the

meal.

night, yet
wearied

nor

of

his

had

He

good horse

he

strength, as

the

abomination

that

seemed

neither

the

in

down

ness
wanton-

very

his

to

nostrils

from
his

him

in

'

my

gentle

shrink

from

disturbed

so

long
live-

blown

again

his

cleared

had

to continue

riding the

settled

long untiring gallop, and

back

been

snorting, indeed,

his

furlong on

many

laboured

had

vultures

their loathsome

sped

first flash of

the

bridle-piececaugbt

career.

!' said

Soh, Merodach

'

bold-hearted

steed

! I

lining foe, be

it

trample

dead

horses

on

man

the

tower

the

black

tents

by

would

enemy,

of Belus

At

is another

spear'slength above

half-cooled

sand.

are

you
of

indeed

king

on

the

who

see

plain,and
the

sky-line of

gallant horse

my

fit to carry him

shall

we

of the

out

of

sun

this
Ah

takes the message

!'

Merodach,
caresses

Steady,

rate

not

king

my

Palms, before

of

Well

would

you

you,

this

springing
the

you

brute; but

or

master,

knew

never

Steady then

his

than

him, arched
rang

or

he

Mars,
was

no

less

worthy

his crest, shook

sensible

of the

of his lord's

praises lavished

his head

till its

again,and increased his speed,for

ments
orna-

reply.

20

SARCHEDON.

network

irrigationfiltered

of

through
the

in the

desert

Yet

few^

neighbourhood

ostrich

startled

strides;

awkward

legs before

standing
and

snort

volumes

at

of dust

knot

of

the

which, under
landmark

through

sun-dried

halted
were

their

asses

off in
the

darting through
could

that

light
sun-

alreadydescry
black

sprinkling of
of

of the Well

of

one

dazzling white,
Palms, afforded

thirstywayfarer journeying

to

City.

But, except the

which

they

at

Well

the

unwilling
exertions
from

scorching

to

and

reached
of

to

there

sea,

atmosphere
Ere

desert.

of wild

disappear with

to

structure

name

for every

Great

medium

troop

long

on

away

gazellescouring

featherytrees,
marble

untiring

glancing upward through

Sarchedon

; and

low

tents, that

the

heels

desert -falcon

moment,

fleet

in another

and

whinny,

direction,

that

for

gaze

wind

the

Babylon.

smooth

scudding

phrates
Eu-

to fertilise

of Great

those

furlongs of

more

of the

tricklingstream,

many

tlie waters

such

no

distance

unbroken

expanse

those

scattered
man

moment's

made

the former, at

draught

as

of the

tents
nor

the

and
horse

respite from
least,was

protractedthirst,which

skies

fallacious

estimate

Palms, neither

enjoy

; while

is

from

fering
suf-

under

those

the

desert

21

MERODACH.

Spring such
pressed

cordial,such

the

from

the

ripened in

and

pressing

bit

his

water, while
to

Assyrian

he

down

parched lips,or

much

so

cold, clear,tempting
he

pointed

wetted

his

in

proof, had

pedigree and
lord

young

not

was

indeed, for

and

the

to immerse

is war,

he

him
*

voice

as

the

been

any

sprang

to

basin ;

wanting,
purity of

abstemious.

not

he

ready

he

the

in

was

nostrils

saw

Drink,

my

lord,' said

from

the

folds

breed.

act

of

done

between
of

stooping
sparkling

whose

one

His

about,

have

the

in

brated
cele-

his head

trade

again

in

girlishfigurebending

of his

come

the

instinct

fording
thereby af-

would

shadow

dip her pitcherin

of

in

looked

He

erect, but bowed

when

own

Merodach, though

marble

it,had

sun

manly courtesy
over

the

stainless
so

his

neighed jo}^ully,scarcely

face, lips,and

With

water.

But

drinking-vessel
; but

very well without

him

element.

slaked

his hand

dipped

as

the

horseman,

true

he

before

and

ears

muzzle

his

like

mouth,

towards

caress

drew

master

his favourite's

with

servant

blushed

ever

back, his

administered,

of his

the needs

be

not

sun.

carefullyfrom

head

that

grapes

off Merodach's

Springing
the embossed

choicest

could

elixir,as

an

the fountain.
very

thin

sweet

white

and

veil.

gentle
'

^yhen

22

SARCHEDON.

your

thirst

is

in

news

payment
He

was

down
in

her

utter

hand,

he

have

must

such

King.*

under
of

ern
South-

Heaven,

come

pitcher of

drunk

before

water

he

could

refilled

it

him, while he emptied the

tender

physical needs

of

interest
to whom

one

lithe and

sel,
ves-

take in the

women

as

aid, and

render

they

forthwith, showing, perhaps

gracefulfigureas

not

sciously,
uncon-

she bent

over

have

new

fountain.
*

Thanks, maiden,'

life into
a

many
since

weary

The

slender

hand

horse
on

of Arbaces

What
?

for I have
and

Merodach's

bridle

drawn

he

the

girl,laying

swelling
the

from
he

had

of the Great

Is

put

galloped over

scarce

!' answered

doubtless

comes

You

noon.'

joyfultidingsto bring, or
fast.

league of sand,

poor

lord

said he.

fainting man

ypsterday at

and

with

him,

to accost

girlwatched

with

my

Ashtaroth, Queen

her

syllablein reply.

The

the

of the Great

army

bold, gallant,born

had

in person

will take

servant

your

the

from

young,

; but

sun

quenched,

safe ?

Is

he

ridden
and

unhurt

'But
and

camp,

never

King

neck.

has
so

far

! what
Is

he

well?'

There

was

tremble

in

her

voice

that

denoted

23

MERODACH.

pitcher in

tlie

anxiety,and

intense

shook

hand

her

till it overflowed.

agitationwith

her

marked

Sarchedon

unaccountable
displeasure,
*

The

hand

'the

"

Great

the

of

though

foremost

by

the

into

You
'

and

her

you

as

of

as

and

spring ;

have

you

I then

he

been

answered

in

horse

the

of the

to the

city; but

the
to

rolled

and

under
a

longed
pro-

disgust.

welcome
in

lord,

poured

grasp,

at sundown

breeze

the

people yonder

'Indeed!'
Have

her

from

messenger

his

by

togetherin delight,

thirsty soil

the

The

of all.'

honoured

and

indeed

are

rains

welcome

'

trusted

"

of astonishment

welcome

the

as

battle ;

must

health, unwounded,

in

hoofs, elicitingfi'om

snort

"

is well

in

he

as

his war-chariot.

mounts

pitcher,escaping

Merodach's

she

he

the enemy,

its contents

triumphed,

has

named

he

while

eyes

clasped her pretty hands

She

while

and

King

host

captain

feared

mouth

when

triumph

ever

unjust.

was

King,' he answered, raising his right

Great

quickly to

him

it

as

of

sense

gods
;

Great
to

!' said

welcome

Queen
none

so

!'

me

cold measured

brought tidings of

one

so

very

voice.
dear

to

?'

'None

can

ever

be

so

dear,' she exclaimed

with

24

SABCHEDON.

lightlaugh, musical
the

rippling fountain

well

his

shall I

none

"

Arhaces

I watched

first

gleam

of his

the

from

befriend

heaven
the dawn
It

have

been

and

his

learn

who

rides

host

of

welcome

are

as

earth.

as

an

ox

treads

their chariots
assault

I have

children

All

that
Yet

of iron ;

by

I have
I

to

speak truth

the

queen,

people in

the
we

down

ripened corn

taking

their

bringing

when

replied:

trampling

and

tell is of

tone

relate how

to

thousands

his

to his

his

and

capturing and

and

victory.

to

out

he

king

of nations

the

that

softer while

have

should

heart

speech,

spared not, crushing

breaking
by

her

much

so

the conqueror

enemy

women,

to

all the

you

bearing tidings from

am

and

cities

me

that

lightly at

so

greatest cityof

the

for to

the

yet arrived but

again, may

unaccountable

was

from

slew

I say

you,

catch

to

returns,

has

one

return

!'

bounded
should

Not

so

King's captains

the first messenger

camp.

lord.

yourself,my

he

me

mounted

he

maidens,

when

by

since

Great

my

armour

love

dearly in

so

of

whisper

ever

day

every

with

him

half

the

as

will

of the

head

here

good tidings of
hither

love

ever

at the

chariot

pleasant
'none

"

father,and

is my

have

"

and

away

tens

swear

fenced
men,

sands.
of thou-

honour,
I

glory,
to you,

25

MEEODACH.

the

by

maiden,

pleasethe

it may

at the Well

with

the

me

of

noble

have

compense
re-

to bestow

here

you

folds.

deadly

triumphs

horse

broken

of all.'

report,'she

to

wered
ans-

if he

borne

of chariots

fore-front

of the

the

"

wounded,

their

watch

Palms,
me,
to

my

on

walls

the

lord

gather

once

my

dying,

more

maidens

you,

my

And

this

Has

the

fare
war-

good

triumphant

and

think

to

fallen steed, the

be, gasping

may

trampled plain,and

then

to

city,or here by the Well

that

never

freely.

too

from

the

about

comes

Let

me

fountain
me,

in

it, in the hottest

love, it

we

of the

speak

and

0, it is dreadful

those

the

spear,

Yes, I know

"

for the horseman

drink

peace.'

lives
the

on

"

shivered

unhurt

battle !

pitiless
conqueror
out

fierce

scatheless

always

you

without

its mark

in

escaped

you

and

its

behind

cheek

her

to
not

shield

quivering

an-ow

the press

of!

rushing

victories,but

have

"

blood

Great

'

many

"

lord

the

see

day
to-

gladdened you

hurriedly,and drawing her veil closer, as

could

on

father's welfare, is to

lord your

brightestreward

richest and

You

met

to have

and

Palms,

of my

assurance

Queeij

Great

servants, to have

of her

the lowest

that whatever

light of morning,

and

of

Pardon

give you
then

will

depart

in

26

SAECHEDOX.

He

took lier hand

his

in

did

nor

own,

she

draw
with-

it.
*

You

of Arhaces

howshot

need

of

without

guards

The

her
*And

mother's

I eat

as

by

by

the
a

drink

league

father's

no

fame

is

repeated. Maiden,
*

I mil

water

ber
remem-

lord

my

and

name,

he

is

called

the

night !

Ishtar.

It

loved her

Arhaces

murmured

hurriedly.

and

"

was

rich

low

syllables 'Ishtar, the

gentle,mild,

my

good

and

voice

fair pure

"

ever

The

well.'

his

'twas well chosen, in

'

truth ; for

gracious,like

goddess.'

'And

changes,

laughed the girl;

my

but

lord,

continued

The

day

king's tidings must

be

respectfultone
a

and

of Arhaces.'

daughter
he

have

many

her

own,' she added

shines

moon

true

her

softlyon
of

hread

shade.

Over

Bahylon

for the

as

that name.'

'Ishtar!'

queen

horsemen.

nor

much

so

tents,'she answered,

the

daughterof Ai'haces!'

of

servant

dwelt

kneeling in

are

daughter

?'

those

in

are

of defence

long

so

citywalls

the ramparts of

tower
*

the

The

unattended

travel

not

damsels

camels

my

does

from

'My
'

alone ?' he asked.

not

are

'

wears

like
in
on

woman!'

true

graver
"

diligenton

and

he who
the

more

carries
way.

28

SAKCHEDON.

he

versed, as

of the double

unconscious

was

burden

that he bore.
the

Nearing
the

walls

stupendous

rode

at

lodges
the

city,Sarchedon

slower

of wood

that

sun-dried

him

over

bricks

scattered

wide

to admit

as

of three

standing

out

warriors,

and

in

pairs, bluff

stood

the

which
open

from

bull

like bees

the

created

had

mattered

What

defiant
tween
Be-

most

spicuous,
con-

sunset, while

repassed
out

and

busy

of the rich and

especialresidence, which

own

Queen

the
to

and

in and

magnificent city,her

World.

like

assault.

was

sunrise

portalspassed

crowd, swarming

Great

loftytowers

representing gods, men,

ornaments

their

with

to

part
ram-

of these, large gates of brass, worked

animals, amongst

through

the

being driven

bold,

utterly impregnable

every two
in fantastic

and

and

height,were

chariots

flanked
along their[summits,

abreast

in

he

through

richlycultivated garden -grounds without

so

as

of tents

scores

walls,that, risingto fortycubits

yet

but admire

not

frowned

through

pace

or

could

waste

to be

of the

Wonder

of life and

treasure,

starvingfamilies,faintingpeasants,the sinking slave

and

the

task-master's

in all those
with tears

whip?

Each

countless

leagues of building might

and

cemented

with blood, every

brick

be moistened
stone

raised

29

MERODACH.

on

and

crushed

the

mangled

of marble, slabs of

masses

tell their separate tales

and

oppression

said,

'

Kaise
of my

worthy

what

"

here

me

cityby

of the

The

such

within

Passing

turned

bowmen
the

exertions

him

and

women,

he

rode

he

out

even

were

as

the

walls,

their

of his
was

and

necessary
many

young

With
to rein

warrior, many

and

as

mations,
accla-

accoutrements

for
to

dispatch,it
a

foot's-pace
;

whirling down
and

in

pressing

and

back

charm

men,

"

sheath

Merodach

streets

the carved

desire

fell

for

passage

his feet,

all his

dainty flower

their

touch

to

bow,

sword, the very trappings

horse.

cheers

other

of his

his garments, the horn

and

thousand

each

strivingwith

honours

camp

crowded

thronging

children

passed on, shouting a

of his

the

Assyrian

warlike

clear

required to

through

of

monarch's

to his

laid.

were

guard

of

to be

not

defiance

greet with

to

from

messenger

of man's

tower

on

structures
were

their foundations

which

Maker, about

Queen

straightwayupsprang,

mighty stream,

that very

Great

the river that shall be

pride,splendour,and magnificence,as

surpassedby

gold, might

famine, disease,misery,

matter

!' and

name

either bank

of

of

parapet

and

alabaster,roof, tower,

of cedar, and

pinnacle,beam

of its founders

corpses

amulet

on

was

the
cast

30

SAKCHEDON.

aim

unerring

with

paced forward

he

while

his

on

broad

temples,or

distant

whole

the

With

one.

the

waste

rode

he

So

the

mist

the

even

on,

way

he

in

afar

pure,

sacred, and

an

streets

the

beautiful

eagles'wings

strength and

of all ;

that

and

sea

star

of

shiningthrough

of the

at

the Well

ear

seemed

his

gentle girl
of Palms

reecho

to

the

of

night !'

possible,denser,

if

as

nificent,
maghe

ceeded
pro-

city.

flanked

and

queen

wider, the buildingsmore

crowd,

steps,

the

triumph, splendour, and

ago

rent

Presently, reaching
marble

observed

like

hour

an

were

through

in the

unearthly whisper,'Ishtar, Ishtar!

from

The

the

of

that

shouts

brave.

armour

would, above

mass

left

veils

astir.

citywas

pale spectralbeauty

had

he

whom
"

the

colouring,floated

gorgeous

the

on

his

glint of

slowly

that

faces, amidst

their

and
spread like wildfire,

news

which

still,turn

first

populationof

flung

welcome

with

gardens

gate had long expected such

at the

watchman

The

like

who

women,

greetings and

to shower

aside

glowing

terraces

saddle-cloth,

statelypalaces,solemn

under

bright-robedAssyrian

and

knees

by

human

solidityof

wide

flightof

those

colossal

low
bulls

broad
with

heads, that representedthe

the

great Assyrian empire,

31

MEEODACH.

he

halted

had

to

rolled

been

these

stan-s

obviously

to

his

heart,

multitude
to

the

from

paces

hold

of

body

gait,

before

conference

gold

bottom,

to

top

solemn

and

cloth

of

their

the

rest,

with

the

and
and

white
centre

and

scarlet
down
-robed

figure

advancing

messenger

from

jewelled

signet

camp.
Then

from

to

for

marching

slow

three

walking

out

were

priests with

the

dismount

Great

the

warrior

young

took

breast,

and

-^"ith

mouth,

and

forehead

came

Assarac,

King.

unbroken

low

obeisance
while

silence,

high-priest

of

as

Baal,

over

pressed
the

Sarchedon
his

token

it

eager
dered
ten-

from

in.

CHAPTER

SEMIRAMIS.

The

silence

lord,

ere

lasted

he

the

half

dozen

to

royal
with

defaced

who

has

saddle,

splendour

stroke

garments,
and

seen

warlike

the

in

were

and

him.

His

and,

set

marked

refined

the

twice

thrust,

and

there

his

dusty,
bodily

gait

weary

without

contrast

magnificence
marble

here

entrance

notwithstanding

training,
sun

The

spear

steps,

of

quitting
the

to

of

by

away

between

each

guarded

up

universal

attract

armour,

or

led

disappeared

that

stone

dwelling.
sword

travel-stained

strength

of

had

went

ever

horse,
to

the

Merodach,

on

than

seemed

now

his

into

escort

caress

good

Sarchedon

bulls

gigantic
the

The

negroes,

for

priestly

deafening

more

When

space.

parting

sky.

sunny

attention;
the

that

one

and

longer

shouts

short

accompanied

bestowed

palace,

into

but

all

skirted

one

the

glittering
that

by

rounded
sur-

their

33

SEMIRAMIS.

like

costly palace itself,with

the

of

front

gold;

with

inlaid
breast-plate

steel

glisteningand polished

level terrace,

broad

life ; the

couching

of

long

walls, brought

the
of

the

gods, as

the

triumphs
Here

of lifeHke

succession

high

in

out

by

won

line of

the vicissitudes

the

of war,

boldness

memorials

lion, the

the chase,

stag, the boar,

bull, beasts, landscapes, rivers, chariots

the

wild

and

horsemen, warriors, captives,towers, and

Above

rose

painted

of

kings.

representedthe pleasuresof

were

host

carvingson

relief with

brightness of tint,were

and

design

offered to

of adoration

tributes

mystic forms,

colossal

its

strange deities,its

its

emblems,

erect, its sacred

regal

the

eagle-headedfigures,its winged monsters,

or

to the

gildingand sculpturecoloured

of

entablatures

hundred

their

statelypillarsto support

roofed

chambers

towns.

mth

and

cedar

other

cious
pre-

wood, inlaid in elaborate and fantastic patterns,

brilliant with

vermilion

profusely ornamented

with

the

produce
of

yet

rose

rooms

utmost

and

which

plated with
VOL.

I.

with

another

very

gaudy colours, and

other

gold.

story,on

skill that

Over

these

lofty
carved

ivorycolumns
handicraft

Indian

triumphs furnish, under

Bactrian

the

or

battlements

silver and

and

parapets

gold.
D

could
a

roof
were

34

SAECHEDON.

High

above

cedar, which
from

the

the

formed

alone

of
Assarac
where

own

innocuous

at the

gate

pillarsof sardonyx

two

should

it pass

through,

giganticcarbuncle

flashed

its lurid

to shed

an

gleam

angry

He

bade

on

through

cool

columns

many

thus

having

wild

stag

the freedom

'

was

She
the

She

down,

the

once

and

palace

more

his

on

in

of

night.

the

Assyrian

its

narrowest

paradise or
their

met

eyes

den,
garwas

all

scouring with
to the

mountains

as

citywalls, till,

at

lair,and

hunts

no

shoot

tamer

him

these

within

priest'scomment
for

seemed

that

darkness

shelter

of

thicket.

seldom

cares

poison
which

over

rays,

of the

objectthat

from

palace,

pair strode swiftly

the

circuit

of his native

neighbouring

'

the first
roused

racters
cha-

sacred

to render

days

were

the

traversed

part, they emerged

where

holy office,

spacious hall, propped by

there

furlongs in

or

year,

and

as

hut

enter

of the

and

in the

even

follow,and

Sarchedon
a

remote

king.

left his retinue

stood

his

the

person

of

structure

might

none

ministering in

his

priestand

sacred

mysterious retreat,

where

when

in

combining

the

that

of man,

gaze

monarch

and

all towered

on

this

pastime
with

bow

gardens now,'

startlingincident.

than
and

to ride the

lion

when

at

arrow

36

SARCHEDON.

silver and

god,

and

much

leaving her
with

her

affected

of

Great

the

by

and

women

wdle

the

away

attendants

seemed

the

temple,

the

way,

At

made
her

in

the

curtain
of

his

portico of

fall behind

his

hurtle

of
that

the

of crimson

her

alone

with

beating,

chariots

rich

besides

the

press

about

whole

it had

as

and

was

entrance

raised

served
ob-

fairer,paler,and

he

as

of her

and

; but

of this

rang.

temple
in lotus-

hangings,

place while

of

to enter

world

silk embroidered

Assarac

till it touched

dame

the

name

within

comrade.

of

led

have

might

jetty locks

was

stepping quickly aside, gave

himself

the

follow, and

to

smiling

heart

whose

gold.

the

beauty

thought

with

Immediately

forehead

in

Sarchedon

this

for

taste

presence

flowers

of

expectationof

carelesslyabout

so

interest

at the

horsemen,

veil

greater

colouring of

beat

hung

sign

time

gentle type,

never

him

another

new-born

more

hours

ample opportunity for contemplation

Southern

her

she

wrapping

with

his

who,

retire here

to

in

priest; for, appearing suddenly

charms.

fish-

day.

of these

afford

the

Queen,

hottest

the

to

Dagon,

especialpalace,loved

own

the summer's
One

in honour

ivory raised

he

and

let them

Sarchedon, prostrating his

the

the Great

cool

shining floor,found

Queen.

37

SEMIRAMIS.

The
in

temple
and

ivory

with

jets

fantastic

showers

to

waters

the

odour

of

with

the

while

he

couch

subtle

some

of

scent

cooed

or

dared

garment

musical
to

and

raise

not

of

his

eyes,

he

looked

of that

subjugate the

to tell

with

me

who

me

against
and

it

on,

face

carries
Sarchedon

stood

before

to

sprang

the

mingled
senses

the

he

who

enchantress

the

entrance.

the

hem

heard
was

the
tined
des-

world.

face.

token

An

shaft.

but

was

while

Semiramis;

tidingsfor good

your

love-

drowsy

figure recliningon

ivory over

that

tones

flitted

Sarchedon's

on

freshing
re-

doves

incense

like

'Rise, trusty messenger,' said

not

with

their

perfume,

aware

sparkling

pinnacle and

flowers, stole

became

of silver

of her
low

building,

silvery

in

the

"WTiite

murmur.

perched peacefullyon

song,

of which

continually moved

and

threw

fountain

into

elaborate

and

roof, falling back

the

thus

drip

He

to

midst,

ivory basin,

an

were

about

the

carved

former

patterns, delicate

In

of silver

skill,the

frosted

and

wrought

latter

and

taste

needle-work.

as

its

silver,the

exceeding

thousand

circular,paved, panelled,vaulted,

was

He

from
to

queen,

or

evil,and

needs

must

the

my

lord

his

feet at her

as

fair

be

'fear

speak

welcome

king.'
bidding, and

specimen

of

youth,

38

SAKCHEDON.

and

manhood,
selected
her

warlike

husband's
and

hosts.

kept

his breast

from

countless

the

from

had

jewel that

the

formed

that

less,
neverthe-

his eyes,

down

bent

been

have

myriads

averted

He
head

his

could

as

grace

while, plucking

alreadygained

him

admission, he replied:
The

'

light of

of her

eyes

but

be blind

once,

and

While

he
under

enough,

and

bent

feet.

She

eyes

the

signet on

glanced
the

on

to look

courage
!'

evermore

laid

her

take

at it

silken

carelessly

warrior

young

with

smile, half soft, half scornful.

Am

she

'

then

I
the

face

thrill

through
the

scan

whose

of

She

beauty
that

of

with

form

and

her

had

mightiestnation

Her

every

less

form

was

gesture,

in the
in
the

in

the

to

courage

already

matchless

pleasure shot

celebrated

in

to

live !'

took

doubt,
than

gracious

and

of that

?' said

upon

and

He

beauty

no

Look

words.

no

be

should

to you,

features

and

wins,

compels.

that

her

look

to

triumph

beautiful

was

that

queen

intense

him

of the

I say

intellect

mistress

dangerous

so

faithful servant.

so

for

he

spoke
her

him

Let

the

dazzles

queen's countenance

servant.

cushion

the

woman,

made

her

East.
the

nameless

lofty beauty
in

saddle

symmetry,
or

on

the

39

SEMIRAMIS.

throne,

womanly, dignified,and

was

each

dress

tiara

to

seemed

she

in which

man's

strength

man's

power

that

genius

body,

she

and

have

; in that

lashes

clean-cut

moulded
on

to

immovable
But

as

the

His

and

she, who

seemed

well

than

shrewd

bright eyes,
the

and

found

an

pride and unbending

of that

the

of

recklessness

cold

mouth,

rosy

lution
reso-

in the

beautifully-

that could

harden

pitilesscruelty stern, impracticable,

"

fate.

nature

looks

^Yith

loving glance,

prominence

Sarchedon

sunshine

more

those

army

only saw

seemed

of her

to

of

lovelywoman
his

bearing,glancing approval on
Southern

best.

of will.

and

curves

and

jaw

occasion

jewelled

delicate,exquisitelychiselled face,the

full

chin,

her

in

an

lines that tell of tameless

; in the

force

command

can

and

possessed

detected

thick

robe

golden headpiece,

looked

she

of mind

their

despite

empire

of

would

observer

royal

breastplate and

steel

that

from

wore,

graceful,while

glowing

expand

Hke

queenly

face.
a

His

flower

in

smiles.

could

not

might

have

pleased

to

fail to
been

accept

express

admiration,

satiated with
much

as

as

homage,
he

had

to

offer.

Bending

towards

him

with

gesture

of conde-

40

SAECHEDON.

that

scension,
advance
*

yet

And

your

tidings from

'

host

The

host

is

She

started, but

have

silken

she

be

duty

your

clapped

her

into

the

'

voice,
bid

delay ;
the details

he
"

food

and

night through

are

you

and

hands,
the

'

the
in

effort.

an

and

coldly;

dismissed

!'

behind

from
who

woman

had

still in the

queen,

learn

from

tone

changed

the

guided

to look

again.'

lived.

him

You
you

Take

same

strained
con-

out
with-

to Assarac

to me,

sunset, all

at

regarding the
to

have

of

one

irresistible

desert;

and

it

with

herself

priestreport

queen's face
on

will return

king

this messenger

rest.

the

the

haughtily

"

soft, sad, and

sweetness,
had

can

her

stay'

the

take

the

briefly;

temple.

said

*Kalmim,'

?'

king

past.'

answered

hangings appeared

Sarchedon

has

day

me

what

war?

answered

controlled

she

done

Then

lord

another

ere

'Enough,'
you

My

of the

the

he

ended,'

on

perdition,tell

What

lord

of my

looked

have

you

without

the camp.

what

?
war

triumph

But

of mine

face

is victorious.

'

couch.

now,' said she, 'that

terrible

him

bade

she

caress,

to her

nearer

this

of the

almost

was

'
"

have
courage,

winning
till he

not

ridden

looked
you

host.

day
on

may

and
your
live

41

SEMTRAMIS.

the last words

With

intoxicatingsmiles, and

rare

her

presence

who

wakes

the

gardens, or Paradise, belonging

the

of

offend

presumed

to

head

of

thousand

state

and

offered

the

to

by

after

the

of

share, if he
far

executive
Sarchedon
the

human

rebellion

Flood.

Here,

combined

in

as

been

the

not

he

dared,

of

of foot

than

nimble

of

solemn

numerous

his

of

own

politics
;

Egyptian

eunuch's

pedition,
ex-

aim

to

queen's counsels,
in

to centre

the

his

own

person

government.

found

under
the

ambitious

guide, the

could

his

on

at

sacrifices

in

their

ing
himself, therefore,again threadwhich

shady paths by

this occasion

in

Assarac

leadership of religion and

it had

the

nearly to

which

of Ninus

lofty

site,and

Assyria, and

who

Assarac,

"

the

as

same

that

for, during the absence

and,

the

on

priests,dwelt

gods

to the

the

surrounding

splendour, officiatingdaily

satellites
person

and

Baal,

altitude, as

same

man

pile of building, dedicated

vast

Belus, raised

of

dream.

stood

left

soldier

strong

of

worship

tower

the

of her

one

out

royal palace
the

him

on

helpless,confused, staggeringlike

Within

to

turned

she

the

conduct

priest but,

tongue.

he

Kalmim

as

of

had
a

became

made

no

but

come,

guide
her

on

less swift
sex,

scruple

more

of

un-

42

SARCHEDON.

aflford her

veiling,to
her

with

good beginning indeed,' said

is

face

myseK with
!

why,

look

needn't

you

ought
It

well

"

to have

never

almost

was

thoughts,

own

bold

so

at

brought

challenge;
and

made

no

and

unnaturally,to exhaustion

save

you

You

are

from

lack

your

life ?

up

things

in which

thoughts
I

why

am

were

not

are

there

compelled

He

'

and

0, you

is

no

himself

"

!'
with

busy

was

accustomed
un-

silence, not

his

kindly ;
not

how

men,

you

woman

reply. Kalmim,

would

food, and

of

there,

"

fatigue.

she

weary,' said

them

alone

he

neglect, attributed

to

'

but

derness
wil-

gracious to

so

here

you

charge

me

unveiled

an

take

this deserted

last of

the

since

"

bid

her

remember

I cannot

face to

should

she

rest, and

and

guidance through

your

since

one

food

of your

thought

her

seen

that

boast; but

small

no

have

To

lipsand

in favour, my

are

you

dame,

saucy

reddest

'

tell you.

can

this

the

justice to

Babylon

in

eyes

lord, I

young

did

that

smile

wickedest

his

benefit of

whole

charms.
'A

any

the

companion

only

less,
faint,doubt-

'

confess

your
ashamed

it to

pride keeps
of

those

disgrace?'
to

though

answer,

his

far away.

ashamed

to

be

faint

and

athirst.

44

SABCHEDON.

she

never

know

sadly abused
Not

by

who

one

has

just

he

scarce

knew

taught

to

offend

against

house

to believe

Next

sport only

^You
She
to
not

unveiled

of

to

her

turn

eyes

went

your

way.

know

who

and

what

she

She

and,

or

her

veins

is

stars

of heaven

mother's

her

the

mother,

mingled
"

bank

prize

with
a

cause
be-

the

fire

at her

him

feet.

exclaimed,

Confess,

on

you

before

Is

it

now.

you

possible you

got
do

is ?'
'tell

the

me

truth.'

name,' repliedKalmim
blood

fire that

and

in

her

glittersin

the

that

flows

affordingneither

heat, serving only to dazzle

was

man,

lord!

evil,'he answered,

bears

like

seeing

my

and

Good

perplex

mischievously,and

hands

horse

'

'

that

bewitched,

are

king's

enjoyed quarrelling.

love, Kalmim

to

clapped her

been

veil.'

making

second

of

lawful

my

her

core,

never

because

citytaken
woman

the

to

majesty

tease, irritate, and

To

She

the

fenced

lifts her
to

times
some-

are

light of

have

'

why.

against it, nor

she

left the

Sarchedon, angered

though

is cast

they

me,

!'

presence,'answered

"

queen's palace

The

believe

too, I

unveiled

am

here.

privileges; and,

its

'

Yes, I

it is different

; but

has

before

saw

bewilder

light nor

the children

45

SEMIRAMIS.

Arbaces

of earth.

the

far off in
bare

men

down
and

northern
the

to

from

took

all the

of

deceiving,debasing
deceived

long

and

voice

still sad
lost

of

share

Her

in

the

into
a

this

paces

her

pain.

vanished

out

camel-driver
was

seen

heard
the

in

look

never

her

slave.

sand.

loved

He

building,he

she

say

he

lowed
fol-

stopped,

sky, like

very

her

from

out

They

to

take

her

senseless

no

in tent

in

At

grasp.

on

or

and

tress
in dis-

one

Arbaces
more

the

Travelling here

walked

the

of his

her

hereditary in

forward

found

Old

Ai'baces, possessed

Suddenly

Rushing

Ishtar

might

great city was

towards

through

wailing for the

starlightnight.

hands

"

them

by

mountains

she

Ishtar

off.

to be

remorse.

woman

the

on

spell

themselves

influence

desert, and

few

plain,and

of

became

while

cool

she

arms,

wife

feet

the

stretched
or

the

her

of

of

beauty;

sorrow

and

had

and

song

Light,

those

on

unearthly

Nineveh,

halted

who

bright face

husband

print of

from

tent

the

of

shriek

whose

Ishtar,

of

race.

the

"

with

solitude

some

daughters

stars, tempting them

in turn, left to

mourning

night

lover, in

again

very

of

Sons

hopeless

people yet speak

the

the

whom,

race

earth-born

grosser

deserted
of

years

the

thrones

golden

wiles

the

mountains,

spiritsof

their

that

from

wife

his
rise
sun-

the

palace.

46

SARCHEDON.

But

the

all

love

he

transferred

heard

have
for

of

but

am

fortune,

I would

for

draught

away

seemed

He

the

reached

now

with

the

into

food,
a

with

there

of

meaning

good

deal

about

the

see

of

he

said,

he

faster

person

at

had

before

than
of

the

chance

bartered

!'

they had

but

made

warrior

and

bath,

she

Great

who

"veil,

since

had

come

him

raiment,

Queen.

ing
cast-

answered

brightest

nobody

tripped
to

its

at

ushered

of her

one

reply.

no

young

it

dream

empty

an

face, she

handsome

that

interminable
I your

Kalmim,
and

desert

already prepared,

were

her

dropping
her

hot

respect,

glance,

the

in

thoughtful,

the

intelligence

Then
to

mark

the

lofty building, where

and

wine,

look

smiles.

and

and

temple,

every

cool

and

as

twice

priest received

white-robed

portal

think

and

beware
"

yet,

sad

very

into

water

has

glittering lakes,

woman

of

she

lord

springs

broad

them

before

always

waste.

and

forth
hence-

seemed

Doubtless

my

real

leaving

men

rivers

shining

faded

Beware,

too.

of

mother

child.

the

to

him

bewitched

the

bore

her

was

back
duties

CHAPTER

THE

false

and

well

of

from

scattered

were

and

lodging

fair

the

from

unarmed,

vdih

of

cup
the

Assarac

not

which

but

in

priest,

hoped

who

had

such

was

mounted
dis-

luxuries

the

of

temple
contrast

as

great

to

in

to

travel-stained,

countenance

his

in

camp

the

divert

silken

sparkle
dull

of

and

beautiful.

the

him,

that

proval
ap-

bathed,

simply
against

yet

extort

garments,

was

over

and

was

Sarchedon,

hand,

sitting

to

as

herself,
clad

gold

triumph
he

one

the

and

queen

refreshed,
a

altar

pleasing

weary

and

comely

the

the

fare.

camp

Sarchedon,

If

so

formed

that

right

ride,

about

orders,

while

To

nights'

two

religious

but

nothing,

profusely

god

Assyrian

other

offerings.

GOD.

deemed

for

with

HIS

in

as

was

want

supplied

OF

Baal,

it

true,

should

priests

of

TEMPLE

hierarchy

the

In

lY.

could

bauble

only

intellect

by

48

SARCHEDON.

the

in

his

that

world

Eastern

rival

could

own.

The

of

roof

the

lower

pillars and

the

below

them

court,

behind

them

vast

and

imposing

in

gloomy,

High

the

to

their feet the

like

murmur

The

cool

level

the

the
and

marshes,

lift the

for each
rich

locks

of

fathom

their

golden

metal

and

with
cups

yet

to

almost

this
as

the

drowsy

of flowers.

the

already a
hills beyond

garments

glossy head, while

fragranceof
blushing

stood

while

their
its

in

table, also
the

precious

more

of

liquor
than

in

the

gem.

effect

welcome

from

and

amethysts,
was

faint

bed

and

them

brighter than

Something
draught

the flavour

Between

priest'swhite

Sarchedon's

on

great city came

desert, and

plains

stir the

to

beneath

uninterrupted splendour

of the

the

Belus, pointing
down

to

in

wine, bubbling

gold.

gold, studded

in

of

of the

of bees

over

it enhanced

Damascus

vase

many

hum

outer

coming night.

of

till it died

building, vague,

tower

sky-Hne

stole

breeze

of

shades

the

sinking

was

sun

behind

the

piles

sat

temple
the

porticoes of

turmoil

stir and

of the

story

the

by terrace,

terrace

up,

and

sky,

of Baal

servant

rose

their heads

over

the

and

of Ninus

servant

together on

believed

he

said
and

Sarchedon,

after

invigorating

as

TEMPLE

THE

of Palms

Well

and

the

breeze.
'It

worthy

drink

to

for

keep

spear
watches

under

yonder
would
that

pour
tower

it

willinglyenough,

Nile, and

though

horse

and
we

he

had

I.

the hollow

'

were

Stars

us

ordered
level

ever

to

the

when

King,
I

as

reverence,

the

in

grapes

of

summit

his

royal beard
him,'

saw

him

we

crossed

vapid

water

have

roughest

of

spare

lay waste

the

but

given
country

vineyards,

corn-land

break
fruit-trees,

the

ful
mouth-

would

he

wered
ans-

myself

of his buckler

sweet

it been

bade

millet-ground,to
VOL.

chariot

of the

their

it set before

were

Seven

the

by

swore

from

mouthful

after

wine

his

from

drink

his best

dip

warrior.
light-hearted

down

come

the threshing-floor,

of Heaven.'

w^ould

King

life in

his

tread

from
drink-offering

Great

who

Ninus, the Great

to

and

"

out

press

bow

bears

to

more

vineyard

may

Ashtaroth, Queen

the

the

he

and

love,fear, and

in

camp,

to

And

this cup

empty

out

oxen

our

peasants

our

in the

fold

who

whose

warrior

by night,and

arms

and
peace

sheep

us

by day, that

his hand

the

re-,

face

'and

the

at

of extreme

handsome

his

Assarac

it than

morning

sigh

turned

so,' answered

is

the

in

while, with

content, he

pose

in

drained

wliicli lie had

that

49

GOD.

HIS

OF

down

and
water-

50

SARCHEDON.

sluices,burn, spoil,ravage,
like the

Great

King

terrible,I think,
white

beard;

wi-ath

is

blood.

is the

and

the

wine

Nimrod

had

that

breast

Great

King's

expression of

the

yet

you,

pray

once

no

doubt,

the

other

as

his
wdth
all

to

smile.'

his

tenance
coun-

host.

courteous

long

appeased

thought, though

beloved,

somewhat

the
if you

and

the

lessly
priestcare-

to

more

he

his

feared

is

laughing, for
his

loosened
of

traces

"wdll.

fatigue
he

Is

Thirteen

Gods

but

not
?

tongue,
his

from

the

while

frame.

descended

from

Brave, indeed,

pitilessand

as

unsparing

as

himself.'
exclaimed

'Hush!'

What
'I

the

know

naked

face the

in

mighty ancestors,

Ashur

his

host.'

it removed

^Feared,

my

is
Most

pulls

be

only

can

answered
Nay, naj^,'

good

'

and

of warriors,' said

Idng

'drink,
"

his

the

terrible?

captains

turn

deep

but

captains

'

smiles

than

was

wore

"

he
our

rather

bowmen

He

fierce, so

then

for

had

Assarac

among

when

so

kindled, and

Pharaoh's

"

destroy. Who

and

mean

you

have

other,

not
*

since

through buckler

the

round.

priest, looking

?'
counted
I
and

saw

twenty sunsets,'
the

breast

Great
-

King's

plate, ay,

and

answered
arrow

fly
brave

52

SARCHEDON.

'

Did

the

?' asked

the

of

came

in

mix

down

and

and

tasks

their

Sarchedon.

the

"

and

She

'

hold

Egyptians
them

on

with

nor

servile

that

race

conquerors

peculiarlaws

kindred, and

army,

in

at

work

them
much

order
of the
*I

heard

to

seem

strangers.

in their

customs

houses

his

of

Never!'
hard

presses
strike

blow

in

amongst

to

and

see

as

men
spear-

the

'I

numbers

gave

who

rise at

self-defence
and

this
:

future

some

people

they

could

wiser

?'

herdsmen.

who

was

no

scornfully.

warrior

but

have

Assarac;

Pharaoh,

they not

heavy,

them

said

Egyptian yoke

answered

slaves,of shepherds
seen

last

Will

and

archers

the

increasing

the

off the

cast

used

taskmasters, moving with

them,'

their

successor.

time, and

people like

King.'

heard
that

whole

companies.

precision as

disquiet to

than

and

for their
and

have

arraying their

hosts

Great

too

small

whom

race,

life.'

man's

families, giving their daughters in marriage only

to their
an

brave

gin
vir-

be fair

needs

must

woman

her,' answered

hard

with

have

the

favourably on

yonder, imposing

many

neither

They

taking of

captive

bondage

offices

heeded

scarce

look

King

Assarac.

to warrant
*

Great

draw

are

Not

will

never

nation

of

have

man

bow,

'It

nor

so

THE

much

as

leader

follow

him

sling

If such

They

of heart ;

they

how

up,

no

they

are

and

horses, and

no

arms,

find

to

utterly unwarlike

are

have

they

are

rose

one

53

GOD.

Where

stone.

HIS

OF

TEilPLE

to

weak

scarcely

gods.'

any

Assarac
of

through

the

sounded

the

'

who

and

outside

are

of the

tower

night

or

handed

the

of

down,
the

first

subsiding

the sacred

Belus,

word

for

word,

of the

waters,

universe.

generates

above

"

own

"

all,

as

you,

in

that

If

they

If

traditions,

our

the

they

have

faith, it

they

summit

priest to priest,

constitutes

of their

flame.

the

extinguished

never

from

deity is impalpable, invisible,as

which

had

hereafter

our

peopled

man

which

symbols

unlike

learned

of

outward

and

infinite

was

family

the

profession he

the

so

which

have

spiritof

that

glowing spark on

element

believe

temple, might believe,'said he,

to the

'

not

faith,here

is not

the

day.

ligence
intel-

destiny?

own

worship

crude

he

skies, in

his

pointingupwards

since

of all

depths

riority
supe-

to the

of his

exercise

very

earth, in the

Their

good-humoured

Did

neophyte.

in himself

the

adept condescending

an

of

in the

with

smiled

the
turn

earth

too

the
no

after

worship

essence

and

images,

nor

their

is because

principleof
from

the

heat

Seven

54

SAKCHEDON.

Stars with
make

obeisance

no

they
which

from

if

scorn,

dominion

here

below.

though
that

us

Their

children

poor

The

land

of darkness

and

there

is

confess

to

not

men

well

are

fair

so

rivers;
retinue

be

here,

nor

the

north

sweet

herbs

and

wild

they have
*

wall.
fallen

What

whose

boyhood

had

came

of

hereditary

our

If this

you

fathers
seen

old, wrinkled, with

is

here

women

who

maids
old

are

the

come

Nineveh

crevices

of

lineage,

our

stock.'

parent

those

founder
beard

mighty

of

and

spoken

with

'

that
our

in

the

their

nation

descending
as

like

in the

to-night, have

white

the

Queen's

truth,'repliedAssarac

great

and
feet,but loftystill,

Great

growing

remembered
the

the

people

wered
ans-

plain between

gladden

sadly from

away

on,'

thinking, their

mountain
to

look

to

of with

flowers

I tell you

I, sittingby

leader

Assyrian blood,

to

of the

women

the

from

ruined

to my

spoken

down

down

it, in the veins

enough

but,

'

the

as

to

not

life

South.'

Sarchedon,
are

lightand

great patriarchand

shame

in the

it is because

Heaven,

draw

captive people subject now

men

Ashtaroth

and

over

I think

enemies

of

of

Queen

drink-offering,

no

yet higher, to that mystic property

look

of this very

out

out

pour

to the

Baalim

and

they

tower

to

"

his

of de-

TEIIPLE

THE

fiance
from

he

reared

the

patriarch and

the

amongst
Ximrod

hosts

of the

his

rose

over

his

hand

beard, while
Ximrod

No

spear.

the stars

word,
*

And

yet

"

the

in

temple

of his

him

the

on

but that
supreme
save

only the

of the World.

look

of his
make

they emanated

Then

on

with

earth

Stars

the

and

to

of bow

and

gods

of all

dispute his

in his lion-like face !'

lord

man,

The

the

dared

only

numbering

lion -king in

could

Seven

ligion,
re-

passed

he

as

darkened

Ijyall

him

scarce

worship.

dominion

in their

Ashur,

by right

have

palace where

multitude

while

in

believe

to

brow

of earth

tribe
the

proudly, he

especially

haughtily,

this old

beard

"

founded,

as

did

chief of

family
bowmen

much

despise.'

you

lips,scarcelyyet

heaven, would

so

in

living,backed

man

in

nor

Baal,

of

Because

King,

Sarchedon's

to

lord

was

nation

Great

in

answered

he

why

existence, their very identity.

their national
colour

daily
sufi'ering

Assyrian people, but

to believe

was

The

; and

chief of the

all the

Through

55

GOD.

heaven, though

to

unendurable

torment

HIS

OF

he

in his

thousand

the very

patriarchreasoned

as

many

from
and
the

and

with

Nimrod
as

he

himself
over

had

city he

the

reigned,in

gods;

own

wered
ans-

would,

they

all in

had

heaven,

Twenty-four Judges

patriarchtook

the

king's

56

SAECHEDON.

molten

images

furnace

in the

the

king

hand

where

*And

is

them

impossible !

city,and

did

great

in the

presence

midst.'

feet.
hew

not

he

It is

the

into

to his

started

Sarchedon

own

cast

kindled

temple,

of the

centre

of all Nineveh,

his

of the

out

him

exclaimed

stood!'

to all

contrary

pieces with

in

he.

'It

and

reason

perience
ex-

!'
*

The

king

could

Assarac, smothering
his

sacred

of molten

uttered

great

whole

ground

and

sore

in

gold.

night,with

distress.

of the

mighty

that

he

sent

company

with

orders

or

dead.

to

bring

and

here'

"

embarrassment

warriors
the

have

turned

daring

they

put

son

and

the

lips
"

that

said
and

sat

of Terah

he
the

on

what

I do

believe

after the

into

the

was

is,

offender

his presence,

alive

patriarch through

the

the

bitter waters

gobletwith

something

of

to

the

'here

stars

fought against Assyria ;

fled in

saw

stealing away

scarcelythink

came

his

he

garments rent, fasting,

back

him

to his

must

courses

even

of bowmen

till

Assarac

It is

hunter

They pursued

Valley of Siddim,

and

his

This

fashion

down

of lamentation

cry

tinued
eyes,' con-

smile, 'when

images crumbling

in streams

his

believe

scarce

some

confusion,

escaped.

Then

in their
for
so

our

that

it is said

te:\iple

THE

he

that

prayed

his

to

of

God

earth, should

on

humblest

answered
made

his

offeringon
'A
the

his

was

sand-flyof

the

Under

lair.

steel
and

harness

at

to

board

ceaseless
and

exhausted

God

His

temples,

kid

in the

nor

in burnt-

plain.

the

maddens
in

"

bed

where

encounter

his

plague great Ximrod,

diadem
and

been

no

stones

wilderness
or

or

lion in

purple robe

in

"

chariot, the lord of all the

war

into

sent

and

beast, bird,

lamb

smallest

raised

of man,

but

helm

"

fiercest beasts

destroy.

he

altar of unhewn

tiny gnat

the

our

conqueror

it had

and

though

sacrificed

an

been

creation

persecute

prayer,

and

against

punished by the

animal

to

had

slayerof

golden images

no

monster,

as

be

of that

pleasure

chief

he who

and

mightiest men

57

god.

for vengeance

lion-king,entreatingthat
of the

his

or

saddle, bath,

earth
there

was

goaded

was

no

versary,
ad-

by perpetualflightwhere

none

pursued.
'

for

Then

him

he
a

sent

chamber

air of heaven,
for

he

said,

so
"

to eat

with

for
of

that

Now

cunning artificers,who
glass,impervious

the
shall

bread

and

he

spoke

king

entered

I have
drink

ease

from

wine, and

to

even

it well

made
the

pleased;
my

mentor,
tor-

be refreshed

sleep."
*

But

while

the

gnat

was

in his ear,

and

58

SAKCHEDON.

it ascended, and

soon

the

Then

bear,

and

them

beat

he
when

and

sky, he

looks

the

down,

well

And

is true

this

could

; and

Ashur

the

Northern

his

throne

of

built, and

have
to his

raised

the

ease

years

in

out

children

name.'

Sarchedon, whose

exclaimed
could

bidding

be

but

not

gratifiedby

priest'snarrative.
True

as

as

learned

have

be

can

and

reason

our

'

sneer

warrior.

is your

in

his

the

business

mine

is but

to fit the

glad

of it.

never

worship, true

our

as

as

the

lessons

What

themselves.

stars

pain,

sorrow,

we

and

the

!'

duty,' repliedthe

own

in

bowmen

Slingers and

chariots

and

to

one

'

in the

except labour,

of man
insufficiency

'Every

true

true
intellect,

to read

truer

with

Assarac,

traditions,'answered

our

like

something

It

he

father

pleased,from

marvellous

of the

his

to

shine

gold they have

of

brain.

to

hundred

four

his

citythat

the

the statue

love

Stars

his

servants,

hammer,

home

went

Seven

the

light,on

he

then

his

to

for

endured

he

on

greater than

with

head

his

on

"

aloud

feed

to

was

agony

cried

he

So

pain.
then

king's

began

advance, spears

centre, horsemen
to

guess

arrow

could

and
see

where
draw
much

young

the

on

the
the
in

shaft

wings.
falls ;

bow.
the

stars

am

but

CHAPTER

THE

Casting

STARS

his

burned

in

its

its

in

The

built,

of

afi'orded,
all

sides,

be

obtained

sleeping
earthly

figure

deep

his

of

purposes

Assarac

flame,

traditions

astral

at

destinies,

the

right

he

that

plunged

ascended

had

him

he

was

for

It

observation.

which,

from

heavens

the

of

horizon

it

was

believe,

to

and

view

the

and

Assarac

thought.

steadfastly

feet,

scious
uncon-

same

parapet,

standing-point

ally
mechanic-

eyebrow,

the

against

the

of

summit

the

his

that

wood

seemed,

with

worship

to

his

at

taught

fixed

were

fragrant

and

uninterrupted
down

of

it

structure

therefore,
an

COURSES.

as

engrossing

tapering
as

fire

fingers,

massive

train

tlie

touching

gesture
his

THEIR

tripod

his

through

leaned

IN

brazen

passing

tower,

on

eye

V.

yet

of

of

eyes

great

earthly

pondered,

could

the

the

on

on

city

interests,

rather

than

THE

those
him

STARS

spheres
in the

her

him

his

rustle
a

in the

proudly
rather

pupil,

than

of

above

He

the

trated
pros-

brick-work

position,

erect

an

woman's

start.

touched

brow

then, resuming

his visitor

with

unmarked

with

to turn

till his

feet, and

looked

step,the

measured

himself
at

61

COURSES.

light, hanging

of

caused

garment,

THEIR

golden-studded sky.

soft but

IN

face, like

teacher

subject before

his

queen.
*

Assarac,' said

with
do

not

the

object

Do

served

me

laid

She

with

her

white

he, priest, man

of

isolated, above

humanity,
colour
'

of

hand
my

felt the

blood

mount

servant's

king,

sent

fear.

friend.'

his

arm,

and

ambitious,

was,

strongest impulses
his

to

of

brain, the

thrillingtouch.

he answered,
life,'

for doth

my

Many

same.

as

he

priests of Baal,

to-night;
the

the

science, as

interests, and

frankly on

the

thousand

lord

hand

at that

life is in

our

loyalregard

you

to-night.

subjection through

below

cheek,

trusted

your

are

and

to his

Your

at,

slavish

me

serve

you

aim

we

I have

confidence

wishes,

our

in

'

it, because

because

very

have

unreserved

deserve

say,
but

hand,

and

royal

Semiramis,

she
with

not

are

'

in

hold

Sarchedon

and
the
the

the lives

queen's
signet
from

of

the

62

SAKCHEDON.

in

camp

of

those

to

compel

my

sight

they

as

than

more

which

by

lore

above

gods

far

so

And

victory?

skill,the

art, my

my

"

token

precious

in

Great

the

advantage

can

learned

I have

but

are

us,

life,

my

Queen.'
unfold

will

'You

replied eagerly.
host

all the

and

face, as

touch

of

or

and

Something

of

of

she

Doth

characters
tablet

of

her

trust

destiny to

I believe

would

in

the

servant

him

with

believe,'she said, 'thus

the

gravely,

he

knives

before
ask

must

of the

power

the

of the

gods

interpret truly

to

them

the

on

the

dark

night ?'
scanned

She

with

engraved by

fire

of

I will take

night by night, and fasted,

But, first,I

believe

below.'

men

do,' said

can

myself

cut

in vain.

she

doth

queen,

here

and

Baal,

of

with

added
'

to

will

If you

friend.

actions

face

me

proud lip,

sweet

this

with

yonder,' she

up

the

watched

have

his

sky,' she
Ashtaroth,

Baalim,

speak

with

her

on

sarcasm

prayed,

altar

gods

order

heaven

of

myself to

upon
'

the

bid

the

of

mysteries
will

You

speaks

man

for

answer

the

the

fain

far

which

gods

can

believe,if

"

searching

that

man

hereafter
foretell

I had

he

that

look.

makes

for himself

must

submit.

destiny, and

proof,that

'

you,

Assarac,

THE

STARS

faithful

their

the

yonder

IN

THEIR

servant,

counsels

possess
the

of

63

COURSES.

read

to

power

Thirteen,

and

up

all their

satellites.'

TVTiat

priest.
tables

the

The

false.

her

plasticmouldings

of

engravings

Were
and

tell

to

long

one

she

^and

points

that

to
on

the

where

of

royal

own

your

of

that

records

yonder

golden planet, glowing

horizon,

stopped, and

He
near

four

fortells her

the

sacred

said,

from

the
'

to

sky.

only
"

she

credit

to

at sea.'

Assarac,
Hunter

stars, like the

Faintest

monds
diaand

past history,as

low

down

by

the

destiny.'
a

of wine

vase

fire, sprinkled

quarters of
he

future

Great

her

shines

or

answered

the

or

by those

desert

tiara.

farthest

one

gixe

plied,
re-

true

earth'

course

my

cluster

distant

future,' she

from

in the

belt

the

or

past known

queen,'

my

future,

might

shape
do

men

shining

they speak

gone

'

"

upward,

mark

the

of

me

since

spoke

and
intelligence,

Look

the

those

the

past ?'

Of

'

from

judge whether

silent witnesses, as
'

of the

pondered.

they

sighed while
their

desire ?' asked

queen

off to

cannot

myself

my

I read

queen
'I

to

Shall

indelible

deep

does

proof

*I

Ashtaroth,

pour

few

that stood

drops

to

the

this drink-offering,'

Queen

of

Heaven

64

SARCHEDON.

the

tell

Shall

those

stars

the

sky.

Could

'

it all be

true

fleeted for

herself

Ashtaroth

not

look

on

glance

of

almost

margin

of

the

music

of

like

fair is Derceta
she

fisherman,
manhood,
him

with

too

well.

had

heaven

to

in

bears

is fair.

that

all the

the

the

of

waving

built

the

on

dot

at sundown

rain-drops in

temple

to

that

human

half

body

of

dess
godform,

Yery

girdle,and, womanlike,

ful
fanci-

and

her

Near

comely, ruddy,
so

I read

fish.

scales
the

to

as

'

city beyond

in

countless

Dagon,
the

leaping fish

stands

queen's

the

into

rushing waters,

bank

its

terminating

as

that

and

'

proceeded:

beautiful

lake, where

On

who,

thought

from

awe

South,

glistening surface,

shower.

beautiful

brain,

his

Assarac

desert, pleasant and

the

of

the

in

city

palms,

wild

down

come

upturned countenance,
there

?'

adoring votary ?'

her

"With

the

was

through

instant

an

?'

in

terprete
rightly in-

assent, turning her

to the

upward

face

read

tale

of Semiramis

name

nodded

queen

Earth

symbol which,

the

forming

contains
The

of

Queen

the

ardour

of

goddess
of her

temple

dwelt

young

exceeding beauty and

did

not

double

scorn

to love

nature, only

"'Yet
when

she
0

me,

babe,

gave

queen,

her

birth

to

that

never

host

wrath

borne

sackcloth;

left it there

the

that

so

goddess,

in

to die.

Ashtaroth

how

who

brought

fair

sent

that

beautiful

as

child

glows

her

direction, followed
the

promise

of

it

to

Day

and

the

was

as

the

birds

fond

be

same

found

by
then

laughing infant, bearing even

beauty to

ants,
peas-

the

flightin

guidance, and

their

and

flower, and

till certain

sustenance,

of

Queen

pity, succour,

by day

continual

brightens in

and

light,tender

star.

fruits

rill of water

doves

of

observing their

in the

unequalled hereafter

world.'

There

'

neath
equally be-

festers

ness,
shame, carried her infant into the wilder-

X^reserve

deep

daughters of

the

by

wound

foul

darkening night. Surely

whole

beautiful

so

seen

and

Heaven

the

was

tell

stars

and

Behold

the

chiki, though the

silk

and
*

attributes

human

her

of heaven.

Nevertheless,

'

of

those

amongst

even

to the

men

shamed

it

65

COURSES.

THEIR

IN

ST-UIS

THE

pride

was

eyes

as

she

Ask, then,

fixed

if it had

and
them

not

in

sorrow

on

been

the

the

seer,

queen's
and

better to have

child there to die.'

VOL.

I.

pered,
whis-

left

6G

SAECHEDON.

The

It

'

the

is

those

the

the

was

lord

my
her

his

dove

the

the

she

of

which

she

made
amulet

an

that

maiden

veiled

came

into

lord.'

this ?'

you

read

but

tell

exclaimed

she

yet

never

that which

also

me

shown

it

how,

is

almost
to

even

my

written,' he answered.

when

she

it vrill |)urcliase
for her

heart

at

Its

charm

departed.
the

to-night ?

king.'

amulet,

her

wing,

when

bosom

have

the

on

spring

Menon

too,

me,

not

provinces under

how

me

by

started.

know
'

tell

They

the desert

womanhood,

of ten

tell

They

off

they

there

earliest

governor

Idng.

queen

How

They

to

her

of her

*I do

for

in

presence

angrily.

of

up

in her

'

that

read

wife.

The

'

hidden

w^ore

characters

how,

with

graven

the

by

answer.

cast

Had

babe

me

the

heaven.

or

that

by Menon,

seen

weaknesses

destiny of

same

tell

They

earth

in

rule

liis

pity,'was

no

human

of

first

who

written
in

acknowledge

stars

She

governor

Southern

barefoot,vrould

the

sacrifice
will

never

of
sea

have

be

showed

it

would

the

part

wide
have

broken,
man

save

with
vdsh

dearest

of all its powers

then

those

shall

after.
here-

its

virtue

Menon

provinces stretching
gone

ragged

given rank, riches,honours,

and

life

68

SARCHEDON.

witli this

counsel

twice, Menon

fallen, and

had
its

made

was

the

captain of

and

of

gods

be

holy places,to

'

the

with

risen

host, and

the

Assyria

appeased

it had

ere

for

slaughter commenced;

of

work

warrior

blooming

the

proud city
set

were

blood

in

up

ing
suffer-

and

spoil.

"\Mien

the

host
dead

warrior

mighty

the

ruins

of

could

have

in

tent

against

over

No

him

the

but

none

Shall

"

hand

meaner

^low, and

life, because

Menon's

left

triumph, they

town.

lay

to

in

his

smoking

sufficed

took

Menon

returned

read

on?'
A

faint

queen's face.
too

with

others

It

there

in

fixed

was

to

and

the

neither

was

calm

distinct

her
sj'llabled

she

him

beneath

the

scan

that

his

with

words

own

starlit

herself

for

pity

articulation

in

answer

and

stop

rigid as marble, pale

unearthly whiteness

an

but

sky;

caused

moan

"

nor

which
^Eead

on!'
*

They

could

ever

there

bear

not

whose

teach

sat

fairest

woman

the

on

When

by

continued,

his loss, after

place was
seen.

he

me,'

the

the Great
under

she

had

loftiest throne

triumph

She

Menon

that

left his
the

returned

King's side, in
heaven.

'

male

to

earth

tent

has

Nineveh,
attire,the

guided his

wisest

THE

counsels

; she

raised

his

heart,
but

glory

mother

she

this is

symbols

the

trace

the

Great

turned

her

that

searching glance in
his

enhanced

mind,

and

by

his

who

asked

off

amulet

that
a

lustre

on

adds

For

the

to
woman,

gloryto
answer

her

he

amulet

the

to

that

lie, and

him

on

with

able
credit-

composure,

of his

these

were

prophetic

own

exaltation

certain

look

priestbore

The

previous fasts,his studies,

ambitious

deep

over

burden

like

the

memories

of

benefit of her

pertinent question :
destiny,or

amulet?
or

; for it is written

heart.

heavy

the

controls

value

gives

the

him

world

protracted silence, she sighed

and, giving her companion

smile,

of his

Queen.'

brooding

of

shakes

her

cannot

austere

his

on

hours

After

with

doubt, of

result, no

long

of the

conviction

vague

consequent

schemes.
one

his

coolness; though

and

nerve

the

powers,
of

to read

light of

mistress

eyes

his very

seemed

she

treasure

surely true

that

to

and

the

the

fire that

of

history of

Semiramis

became

yet parted

All

those

greatest victories

manhood,

kings

never

livingman.
in

of his

his

she

69

COURSES.

THEIR

city;

of

had

IN

for him

won

noblest

the

eyes,

STABS

the

Do

is it the

the

brightest
'

Is

it the

destiny that
stars

woman's

fame

shed
that

star ?'

pointed to

ruby

in her

bracelet,

70

SAECHEDON.

and

sparkling

in

glowing

the

the

light

of

was

heyond price in

mystic

flame.
said

gem/

That

brilliancyis
sacred

the

from

beautiful

The

fire.

and

woman,

the

by

enhanced

shine
of her

make

they

it catches

gleams

stars

the
how

Nevertheless, behold

of its birth.

raylesscavern
its

he,

dow^n

on

ful
all-power-

an

queen.'
'None

'All-powerful!'repeated Semiramis.
all-powerfulbut
in

took

He

hear,

in

he

which

armies
touch
she

the

has

other

much

she

ramparts
brave
as

do

meanest

men's

much

they

as

his

seemed

not

studies

of the

the

preoccupiedwas

like

testimony,

have

who

city
must

possess.

reached

voice

man

shall

hem

win
The

shall

her

to take

arm

weapons

they

battles

won

has

lift her

shall

built

He

with

his

counsels

person

and

the

book.

sacred

sceptre

who

frontier
so

in
a

Walls

whose

She

and

declaimed

reading from
'

than

words.

he

was

awe-struck

so

slave

of her

heed

no

engrossed

so

heavens,

little less

second

be

To

king.

dominions.'

his

subject in

to

to be

place is

the

lord

my

is

found
in

the

alone

with

lead

hand
diadem

one

but

and

is the

of
the

constitute

dove

empire.

an

sw^ord

to

spear
bird

of

THE

and

for

peace

birth

there

none

will be

mistress

STAPcS

lier whom

left to

fell back

effects of the
beneath

against

those

face with

far

not

the
him

in

looldng

far

out

desert

the

and

conqueror

lay under

the

into

the

away

that

the

her

yonder

dead

like

one

who

defies

and

She

sky.
She

was

quarter

own

ridden

quiver

lion.
bore

expression, bright, cold, unearthly, 3'et not

triumph,

sciousness
con-

than

her

countenance

pages

were

had

of the

the

features

Sarchedon

bleaching bones

but

proud

vague

presence.

from

on

lustrous

that

arrow

fair

night,towards

an

fierce, and

were

read

inscrutable
his

the

frame, escaped

delicate

which

where

from

fate, rather

of

tower,

shade

experienced
these

on

the

passed

not

could

he

of

of her

forgotten

over

camp,

lids

fathomless

the

have

of

lier

because

exhausted

certaintythan

characters

to

the

and

He

here

seemed

eyes

the

parapet

movement

Perhaps
that

written

the

half- closed

more

heaven.

from

at

womanhood,

with

if faint

as

penetrating eves.

of

nourislied

inspirationthat had

queen's brow,

above

in her

contend

71

COURSES.

doves

shall be peace

pale, gasping,

of

THEIK

of the world.'

He

his

IN

subdues

Her
a

rigid

devoid
mortal

pain.
Such

glare had

he

seen

in the

cj^es of the

Great

72

SAECHEDON.

when

King

such

jirit
"

look

It

and

kings

of

of

it would

Moreover,

himself

commit
than

she

though
had

the

crown.

her

face

wore

changed

the

on

depend

to

have

to

staff

it, and

beneath

breaks

often

too

which

on

wilfulness

of

Already

the

bone.

safer
and

even

queen's mood

its habitual

resumed

to

waves

woman,

the

are

it leans

and

of winds

somewhat

calm, indolent, and

of

ambition

of

wiser

mercy

nesses
weak-

and

pierces to

been

had

sj^mpathies,no

tools

the

double-edged ;

and

dealt

w^ho

men

emotions

The

it

face, ere

away.

no

softer

the

nature.

our

have

to

queens

aflfectious, none

sharp

fixed

him

they dragged

cul-

shaking

some

well, thought Assarac, for

was

with

to

victim's

the

on

covered, while

was

death

awarded

he

pression
ex-

voluptuous

repose.
'No

gesture, as
to

be

the
to

done

king.
the

to-night,' she

more

of thanks
before

shield
up

the

in the

let

them
the

great

in
will

you

preparations made
Let

with

dismissal.

return

To-morrow

conquerors.

drawn

the

captains within

all their

under

and

said

'

my

city,bidding
for the

assemble
chariots

square

There

triumph
carry

over

gracious
is much
lord

of my

commands
them

have

reception of
their

and

the

companies

horsemen

be

against the palace;

STARS

THE

archers

let the

and

Yon

strings.
'

For

hand

every

palace,

streets

or

for your

answer

can

counting the prophets

of

said

Enough,'

read

I, too,

can

things

than

She

the

outside

Baal,

wrapped

sufferingAssarac
she

Kalmim,
would

mind.

figureof
"Was
of

mantle

am

is

buried

She

willingto

pay

in

the

to

the

breath
a

over

on

and

walked

she

abstracted,
in

purpose
the

her

recumbent

"Was

it

that

beautiful

gesture
the

the

impulse

an

curls

almost

conscious
un-

on

fierce

its
in

amulet

famous

his breast.

purchase,' she
the

way.

garden,

So

see

stirred

snatched

laid it

her

on

profound sleep.

stars

bent

with

energy,

rash

step

weighty

mightier

depart,not

to

palace.

started

of
fatality

her neck, and

It

the

some

she

comely brow, then,

'

her

in

well.

to-night.'

me

one

waiting
to

face till her

from

to

winding staircase, grave,

Sarchedon

passionate

her

and

more

round

attend

her

womanhood

its

future

said, was

you

imparted

her

its foot

it

priests

done

have

'

revolving

At

the

and

grove,

queen

the

to

the

though

as

the
in

accompany

slowly down

of the

all, without

in

walls.'

have

you

thousand

two

"

?'

temple,

in

lotus

new

people here

own

bears

that

have

bows

then-

that

look

73

COURSES.

THEIR

IX

price.'

muttered

'

but

CHAPTER

He

was

He

he

in

the

pursuit

of

an

tuft

the

in

King's

hand,

and

deep

sand,

such

volumes

ping

him

he

to

of

which

with

heel

stone,

forward,

only

to

beneath

the

sand.

his

Like

and

more

bridle

stab

of

the

he

till, plunging
sink

under

Then

the

whirled

and

the

the

rider

cloud

conviction

simoon,

to

wildly,
his

v"Tap-

pitiless

but

the

in

nostrils,

came

strove

voice,

back

that

cloud,

of

threw

bird

and

lips

the

guarded

strangely

long-legged

choke

with

winged

efforts

laboured

midst

Once

his

his

galloping

that

all

for

rest

dream.

desert,

spears

liis

tliat

ostrich,

revolving

the

die.

to

to

sky.

in

was

the

dim

the

to

turned

But

but

terrifying

Merodach

as

in

not

was

tent.

frame,

must

sound

and

Great

he

so

strange

worthy

towered

dreams.

by

horse

plumes

of

jet

thought

good

that

drea:\ier

sleeping,

visited

was

YI.

rouse

horse

he

and

burst

and

dach
Mero-

seemed

struggled
disappear
asunder

76

SAriCHEDOX.

in

spread
sad

could

her

he

waking,

came

the

he

moonlight,
of

in

look, with

he

his

was

averted

ejes

broken

the

!'

Light, buoyant,

and

though

never

like
a

where

Then

the

great

and

reason,

it fastened

figure signed

was

the

in

clear

the

turned

was

the

under

Assarac

was

features

proud

its face

leap,
of the

porch

lotus -flower

exchanging

the

took

weary

word

or

high
on

seen

in the
the
nor

'

sound

voice

Ferrymen,

water, the

surface

two

Then

oars.

silence, by

deep, saying,

sea-bird

form

window

stealthysteps, these

and

the

dead

tossing

found

bearing

long

your

danced

it

and

afloat

from

over

But

Without

up

came

but

hand.

of

or

he

sword,

knew

fisherman,

hours

cause

recognise the

little bark

the

at last

had

to

shone

couch.

Nevertheless, when

queen.

always

bring

mourn

couch, he felt his heart

Ishtar

seemed

the

his

his

his

Leaving

hut

that

who

and

the

Solemnly, slowly

it resembled

of the

long

without

draw

to

for

set

same

rose

moon

After

on

him

sheath.

to follow.

garb

those

figure blocked
in

over

hard

tugging

The

lay.

streamed

rays

horror

to

like

grave,

sleep.

not

where

him

troubled

in

and

the

in

withdrawing

dead.

He
on

but

corner,

silence, cahn

for the

in

the

but

boat
now,

heard,

she

began
seemed

to

It

was

The
the

on

and

waters

the

he

Was

whereon
be

farewell

the

bottom,
He

took

could

the

toil awhile

curdled

not

land,
shore

the

till the

he

thick

had

been

same

called out

as

voice
the

from

so

name

he

of

one

he

his

last
?

his hand.

mortal

but

; and
a

severe,

heard

and

grate against

his very

had

Sea.

ever

bid

him

seemed

grave

Dead

light of day

darkness

crept into
the

the
keel

about

pierce that

silent

and

Yes,

for

on

row

sea

of this numbing

term

boat's

look

to

ago

the

started

oar

his blood, and

Still and

plain,the

felt the

courage

eye

of the

of earth

shores

while

embarked

respite,having

or

settled

it the

Was

were

Must

at his

tugged

great darkness

approach

to

thinking, he

Thus

he

heavily.

so

sea

pause

the

to

to break

eager

clogging waters, through

they

the

never

without

sporting

his brow.

from

thick

oppressive labour
ever,

waves

hea\-yfreightout

that

row

down, and

passed

oars

must

though

as

horror-stricken

the

"

plain

surely,it

to

dropped

went

their

which

task

sweat

moon

tlie

down.

Weary

till the

mockery,

hard

sea.

oar

of

her

send

in and

that

so

lier sides, leaping and

over

cruel

in

77

DREAMS.

deeper, deeper,

"

peer

her

about

to

sink

to

OF

DEEAMEPw

though
chill

air

heart.

that
on

knew

shadowy
the

other

well

and

78

SArtCHEDOX.

loved
hut

with
the

brother's

boat

Another
the

the

flow

and

the

free

wash

and

With

the

seemed

through
Once
it

were

that

his

Great

she

King,

in

the

to the

swung

against her

she put out

before

with

out

off to
his

by

return

Assarac

his

the

was

task

to oppress

so

sides ;
floated
her

on

; but

could

bore

something
He

the

lungs

tongue

for

done.

was

his

that

boat

would

surrounding

and

chest, that

not

find

oar,

when,

vent

lips.
he

was

bending

of his

own

heart, came

more

tones, which

An

her

formed

his name,

of his

the
as

higher

rose

called, she

lightened as

now

spoken

words

boat

sluggish wave

Ninus,

pushed

fain have

gloom

the

of the

heart

him

warned

no

voyage.

he

keel

her

result.

unencumbered

mysterious

him,

solemn

Sataspes was

of

name

called,and yet another, always

summons

"When

answer

passionless accents, always ^nth

calm

every

water.

no

shingle.
was

strange

At

at

the

name

same

same

was

and
lightened perceptihl}',

longer touched

in

There

love.

'

Sarchedon

yet he knew

to

the
a

ing
whisper-

!' in low

! Sarchedon

vibrated

voice

with

the

as

sweet

sentence

doom.
unseen

power

raised

him

to

his

feet, and

79

DREAIMS.

OF

DPvEA:.IErt

dragged

chest

on

in

Then,

his voice

call

to

muffled

of

tread

echoes

whispers,faint
that

In
after

age,

and

held

were

of

small

no

in

au*

it,

on

his

on

and

time

as

scene

amongst

and

Avithout

much

the

vision

regard
as

warning

still to

catch

breath

of

airy

world.

people

striving

ever

with

for communion

thereof,
interpretations

he

though

could

no

not

of fate.

and, like his

superstitionsof

yet

had

small

now

was,

the

with

cogitation and
it in

seemed

the

imagination

considered

in the

account.

country,

his

wi-apped

another

from

great chief, little imbued

anon

moment

still

footsteps,the

warrior

Sarchedon,

to

found

laid

strain

night

"

mystic ideal,yearning

higher world, dreams,

and

at the

help

seemed

waking

of that Isle of Shadows

gloom

he

agony,

scared,trembling,panting for breath,

his

in

even

his

for

cold

let the

to

So he awoke,

the

Assarac

on

and

fear

of

fairly choked.

was

breast.

naked

and

till he

priest

garmeut, which

fisher's

coarse

vesture, pelding to the

asunder

parted

shore, hut that the

to

throat

and

extremity

his

when

Ly his

back

him

held

lifted liim

have

would

even

concern.

pass

over

such

pictured

now

He

sat

up

perplexity,inclining
of fortune,

as

an

omen

In

his

suffocatingstrug-

80

SAKCHEDON.

liis liands

gles to wake,
breast

his

few

the

the

under

which

on

elapsed

from

hastened

he

tower,

examine

figure
it

wings, following,as
an

had
his

sleep,he

dove, he

said

so

latelyseen

be

more

would

it

Was
forced

an

to

it seemed

it

not
a

in
or

the

confess, from
intended

symbol.

The

letter

to

his

as

its

of

shape

represent

of which

Nevertheless,

he

had
could

sweetness

and

doubtless

future

own

the
This

girl he

arrow

brilliant

initial

during

career.

Ishtar

warrior, and

it

; for what

maiden
?

illustrious

him

arrow,

the

That

air.

the

upward flight,his

become

follow

would

and

its

Ishtar

of

of

course

wishes.

own

mean

the

spread
out-

interpreted it, as

of Palms

Well

than

bearing

in
signified,
He

at the

dove-like

innocent

with

inexplicable,in

his

himself, must

to

emerald,

an

the

the

of

by starlight

dove

seemed,

interpret the

agreeable to

most

manner

of
a

and

doubted,

never

do

always

men

it

never

foot

by supernatural influences

him

to

come

of

through

flying upward

arrow

had

at the

consisted

It

the

cut

was

couch

became

he

ere

jewel he

his

to

sk}'.

open

pressed close against

in them

held

Eising

before.

seen

been

moments

he

that

conscious

had

to

course

He

name

fame.
was

and

direction,that

the

vreapon

would

it must

fain
be

itself,
consider

sign

that

the

intended

gods

he

fault

no

touched

his

fortune

thus

pull

good

share

not

the

his

at the

cushions

hours
and

fire

through
*

hreast,
; and

I tell her

there

when

between

give

with
me

this
VOL.

to

the

for

evening

of its

of her
to

to the Well

dreamer,

the

host, and
the

Arhaces

at

their

of water

to

say
one

will

that

Then

will

to

spearmen

head,

King.

unto

he

spears

how

and

chariot of the Great

of Palms.

vanguard

I will

heacon-

she

'

glitterof

father's return

expect

its

for

gallopingMerodach

was

first

freshed,
re-

ing
rest-

its presence

daylightpaled the

this

the

for

amulet

feelingthe

his way

on

awoke

sunrise, he

Belus,

drink, and

draught
I.

tahle

the

yet emptied

accepted
ere

strength, having

march

as

of

desert

give token

shall

its

he

Surely,'thought

watching

mainder
re-

wine.

tower

the

so

for the

in the

golden flagon,not

omen

the

on

good

da^^-n ;

of

mantle

Assarac

invigorated,happy

fortunate

the

yet

stars.

Nevertheless, long hefore

his

him

mth

many

sat with

Damascus

on

had

night's rest, stopping hy

had

he

it should

who

only woman

it wanted
to

81

DREAMS.

great things,and

if the

promised hy

of his

for

heart did

returned

at which

OF

him

of his

Meantime
he

DREAMER

She

tinguish
disof
who
will

her, Maiden,

athirst and
G

stifled

82

SAP.CHEDON.

with

and

hut

tarry

her

few

horse.

hereafter,when
warriors

take

to Arbaces

and

home
full

to

my

lord

of

the

and

gold, together

he

me

say

nay

with

the

ask

need

happiness, and

shall

then

tent, and

my

for

for

and
his

I will

spear,

the

So

tale ;

hundred

me

rewarded

has

camels,

of

hut

water

whole

bow

parts
de-

bidding

dravrs

king

from

cannot

me,

the

with

score

to

swarthy giant beyond

shall

how

I tell her

talent

of that

won

will

in

he

ere

she

she

while

ridden

face

Then

speak kindly

done

has

her

on

more.

service

for

look

to

lips

fairest damsel

who

him

moments

So

of the

the

from

whisper

eyes
to

no

veil, and

lift her

and

the

great city only

see

is

so

of Shinar

land

to

my

sand,

from

glance

all the

the

desert

the

sheep,
I

armour

river ;

sweet

will I lead
I

have

nothing

her

attained
on

more

earth.'

temple

of Baal

object

of

queen,

after

Semiramis

real

her
a

was

and

heated
seek

tower

Kalmim,

fictitious

restless

she

the

both

the

edifice for
could

only

must

be

an

The

search.

night, bade

of Belus, where

sleeping,who

arriving in

daybreak, missed

her

in that

affirmed

foot of the

added,

after

soon

tiring-woman

the

that

it fell out

Thus

chief

her

amulet,

have
some

which

dropped
one,

brought

to

at

she
her

84

SAECHEDON.

It is better

lion

!' retorted

battening

vulture

'

wild

eagle strikingthe

an

conquered,

or

least

While

'

and

maJi,
a

priestis

'

Is that

what

you

be

and

say ?
will

priestwho

here

are

hand

never

among

shaft

the

round

close

answered

would

for there

morning,

or

at

of

spear.'
*

There

was

flowing locks, and

as

bore

by harm,

come

will

shield

Beladon,

roguish
while

but

eyes

she
of his

the
he

spoke

"

cheek

gods

was

that

even

the

if he

He

has

temples
looked

consumed.'

young

pale

dark

never

priest,with

swarthy complexion,

and

him

of all your

fair face

handsome
and

with

King's signet, and

all the

from

you

with

smooth, Beladon,

done

you

now,'

even

warrior

nearly as

have

not

in anger

man

chin

the Great

hither

porch

goodly young

What

own.

your

the

in

warrior

repliedKalmim

on

women,'

temple,

is

warrior

for

bow-string

draw

to

us

the

in

thousand

quering
Con-

!'

men

it must

this

turn

your

than

camel

match

Nevertheless, Kalmim,
serve

for

high

its rock!

from

down,

or

with

dead

than

marshes

Kalmim

on

goat

up

match

other, laughing.

the

in the

boar

mountain

in the

disdain

be

to

through
blue

tint of

the

turned
rich

lips and

bright
pale
son
crim-

chin.

beard

his

where
with

The

wore

and

the

imitation

in

here

youth lay

he, trembling.

"

rubbed

down
smooth

of Assarac's

face.

unmanly

ever

85

DREAMS.

close-shaven, and

^Yas

pumice-stone

'

OF

DREAMER

bridle

rode

desert

off
like

Great

from

arrow

an

steed

horse, with

the

through

ago,' said

noblest

the

white

"

hour

an

mounted

He

'

scarce

that

of fire

eyes

Brazen

Gate

bow.

Surely

into

he

will return.'
Kalmim
^

he

Surely

when

he

by

me

burst

the

people

of the
will

day

find

path through

in

its

in

no

sacrifice

to flow from

before

of

will

the

nor

bring

she

will

pass

fishingtemple,
You

porch.

sheep

repeated ;

'

and

him

to

dealingjusticeamongst

the

yourself before Dagon

discomposure.

great paradise without

sunrise, but

usual

as

the

been

hath

since

me

!' she

return

return, surely you

Semiramis

delay.
the

will

does

at his

laughing

out

His

no

oxen,

gashes they

do

cut

the

heat

and

you

fear to

not

sent
pre-

worship requires
blood

in their

of

priests

naked

flesh,

his altar.'

She

spoke

in

of the

subject,and

ill

jestingtone
he

befittingthe

answered

in the

lemnity
so-

same

vein.
'

The

sheep

and

oxen

we

ofter

are

consumed

mth-

SG

SArvCHEDON.

doubt

out

miraculously on

the

but

cannot

too

with

secret

no

return,
have

'

said

bringing
shoulders

with

forth
and

But

be

if every

the

the

with

like the
my

So

be

king

returns

Tell

in

me,

priests of
be

to his home

it,' answered

shall

not

if the
to

not

Baal

and

women

down

come

and

the

marshalled

will

fenced

his

on

is to stand

arms

are

unsheathed

of

shepherd

conqueror,

spear

of death,

welcome

received,'

wilderness

bear

can

to

to be

victoryV'

and

are

knives

assault

lord the
*

pain

our

this

I make

god.

than

the

bow

grove

in hand,

and

sarcasm.

lung

in from

who

man

and

Great

of the

; if the

streets

l)hetsof

he

wath

array

spilt

preparations that

ceremony

worthy

children, on

into

more

no

AYhen

in

the

stray lamb

triumph
'

still of banter

was

warlike

blood

cityastir to-day ?'

3-0U wish
'

of the

the

self- inflicted

pain;

mysteries.

our

these

whole

Would

miracle

of

mean

tone

she,

the

by

you

what

set the

Her

be

the

and

our

all the

scarcelyfeel

people, we

the

live

servants

Touching

notwithstanding

wounds,
before

leaves

his

his countenance

light of

he

that

fragments

himself, while

Baal

by

pro-

like

riors,
war-

pons
sacrificingwea-

to Ninus

seem

citythan

the

more

return

of

!'

Kalmim.

'

It

is

not

the

DEE.UIER

flash

of

blade

old

frighten the

the

nor

oth, he fears neither

raised

queen

he

Mountains,

looked

He

It

army.

than

Baal

in

and

gods

divining

cup

of Assarac
shall

Xinus

Thirteen

throne

Gods.
is

Why,
than

"

^Yere

time,'

you,

her

reply.

Beladon

"

the

come

with

me

outer

court

; I dare

oxen,

of them

to

lowing, poor
would

Of

your

not

for

'

Jaspar

not

the

golden

it

on

saw

smile.
I'd have

queen,

the

knows

narrowly, but

face

him

place with

his
he

tell

to

now.'

even

careless

I the
her

was

thank

him

waiting for

light and

be that

It may

The

king.

failed

not

judge

to

me

the

lord

take

day

for

not

my
has

one

scrutinised

He

is

'It

my

'

whole

forgotten it.

more

the

defied

and

in alarm.

he.

said

between

only

of the

to Ahitur

our

not

no

him

about

'Hush!'

that

of

his

yourselves!'

do

you

hath

believes

he

say,

sight

she

and

angered her,
men

in

when

; and

altar

his

of Ashtar-

serpent

Bactria

in

will

that

spear

demon

nor

man

profaned

Devils

of the

Chief

the

By

temple

of

gleam

king.

87

DEEA3IS.

OF

pass

things,

be left alive

as

years,

say

"? Xo,

you

"Well, you

me.

Gate

and

alone

through

if

next

one

younger

they

to-day at

as

knew

noon.'

far

may
as

the

all those
not

one

CHAPTER

THE

Leaning

liis

on

Great

the

City,
indistinct

and

on

the

as

dawn

bolder
few

took

off,

all

march,

their
under

his

the

light
He

and

gold,
the

steel

of

was

goodly

by shade,

banners,

their

real

and

an

the

arms,

on

army
filled

outline,

became

head-piece,

camel;

spoil,
of

encumbrances

the

some

mass,

sleeping

in

out

came

with

features,

man's

visible

plainly

in

day.
in

arrayed
The

apparel.
shone

shade

form

of

shape

colours

respective

breaking

blurred

dark

dusky

into

grew

the

tents,

accoutrements,

his

massive

morning

by line,

upward,

Presently

shadowy

the

Line

slowly

of

light

early

the

of

loomed

warrior

marcli

day's

of

figure

the

NATIONS.

within

camp.

relief.

soon

OF

spear

in

stole

paces

KING

tall

Assyrian

YII.

bright
silks

the

former,
and

and

inlaid

like

throughout
a

mirror,

embroidery

that

polished
heavy

of

splendour

utmost

armour

with

though
formed

THE

the

latter

sword

with

carried

From

and

with

shoulders

of the

head

frayed by

of

with

ornamented
such

In

for

weapon
limbs

an

the

denoted

rather

wore

to

and

brows,

He

the

judge by

and

upright

and

whereon

seemed

from
the

doubt

no

which

he

plated

formidable

and

frame

weighty
while

his

ness,
fierce-

habitual

swarthy complexion,

the

Great

of

thought

thick

towards
spears
to

tent

King's

the

the

where
tent

scowling

ostrich-plumes

entrance.

Avhole
he

was

the

standing apart, of

with

tufted

guard,

mound

pleasing nature,

no

lips and

of his

brightened,

morning

into view

while

costlymetal.

same

working

which

As

son
of crim-

hea\^^,was

expression of

an

in

directed

marked,

arm.

ample curling beard.

glances he
two

his

on

javelin,on

square

with

buried

was

the

man's

in accordance
black

back, and

great personal strength ;

features

marked

scabbard,

mantle

ample

an

it seemed

arm

stones

straight

deep fringes of gold ;

or

spear,

short

at his

arrows

of

press

of many

tear

girdlea

precious

with

the

ornamented

rested, though broad, sharp,

and

and

wear

and

hung

silk, bordered
the

hilt

quiver

studded

his

and

in his

wore

jewelled

bow

shield

He

89

NATIONS.

the

encounter,

march.

weary

OF

sadly rent

were

hot

many

KING

came

camp

kept guard,
pitched
"

and

camp

90

SAr.CIIEDOX.

of many

sleeping thousands, ranged

under

hundred

banners

in warlike

drooping heavily

order
in

the

still clear air.

the warrior

Suddenly

life and

into

and
that

!' he

Stand

his

advancing
*Nay,

have

but
you

; for

of

no

orders

you

are

on

vrot

vrell the

foot

to the

in

was

tufted

proachin
apspears

threatening accents,

raisingthe javelinto
added

to

light step

royalty.

exclaimed

shield and

his listless attitude

from

figureadvanced

Sethos,' he

pass,

'I

action

abode

the

denoted
'

started

with
the

stop

betimes

scornful

strike.

laugh.

king's cup-bearer;

this

old

lion

stirs

the

wine

-skin

thou"]:h

mornino:,

break

before

not

of

day.'
Sethos

homely
be

vessel

poured
'

patted

The

into

'

'

Of

He
of

meaning

'

laps ever

brings

at

him

!' repeated the

Fear

trapped

its contents

"

to

were

to

sunrise,' said he
drink

need

not

'

and

fear to

lair.'

his

enter

who

arm

jewelled cup.

old lion

hunter

the

enough, though

his

under

and
a

who
the

deals
word.

other

with

with

lions

'Tis

accent

an

must

thus,

man,

of

tempt.
con-

forget the
they

are

tamed.'

truth,' answered

Sethos,

'

once

believed

92

SAKCHEDON.

they

as

him

answered

Dangerous words/

Why,

battle with

in
arm

your

rash.

are

his

man,

cubit, and

the

empty-

yourself cover

you

shield.

and

'

Sethos,

It

is hut

king's

life

lowering
in

is

your

hand.'
'

I could

proudly

do

not

shall

It

'

up.

it,'said Sargon, drawing himself

Assyrian

fell to

point

Bactrian

steel.

Nay;

hearth

be

may

fulfil his

It may

thee

into

the

sit

blood

"

handsome

low

of the

of which

he

prostration raised
oldest

Ninus,

simpler than
his

his
even

Hie

tent.

such

out

him

keep

him

fasting from

light-heartedyouth,

passed swiftlybetween

him

Ninus

like

gods

his

from

pour

king's cup-bearer enjoyed

immunities,
"

calls

shall

Sargon's

on

waiting for

are

den, and
as

the

of

gash

extinct, let

name

great

at least till noon.'

Sethos
the

they

the
or

fire

amongst

; he

lion's

morning's draught

his

that

arrow,

the

though

be

said

Egyptian

quenched,

Listen, Sethos

now.

of

destiny,and

forefathers.

be

never

and

the

risen

that
arm

of any
with

himself

tufted

from

warrior
his

captainin

as

privilegesand

many

to the

enter

in the

couch,

utmost

and

spears,

its curtain, to

mightiest

half

long gaunt

availed

who

the

with
tent

world.
ruder

and

his host, stretched

impatience

for the

wine

he

THE

KING

cravecl,to replenish the

SO

wasting
face

of extreme

powers

and

pale

was

sockets, were

sunken

locks, shaggy brows,

and

that

like

mighty frame,
and

of such

was

the

and

new

side

of

as

babe

the

their

the

god

compared
of their

his

with

so

mighty

of

bling
crum-

strength
when

it

was

fiercest

child

the

by

Xinus

was

his

as

earth

their

as

great Ximrod,

and
idolatry,

wreck

Yet

mere

prime,

had

the remnant

time,

host, that
seemed

in

beard

fortress

fabulous

olden

their

scattered

the

still showed

and

King's
in

thin

inexhaustible.

have

king

his

hoary

some

of

nature

would

champion

deep

long flowing

men

whispered through

Great

eyes,

grand proportions,such
to

The

; while

totteringinto ruin,

allotted

was

energies

Nevertheless,

snow.

as

his

dim

white

exhausted

old age.

dull and

turned

93

NATIONS.

OF

but

ancestor,

founder

of their

race.

Sethos

tendered

then

stood

bent

lowly

morning
there

rose

glow

in

quickly;
so

broad

hands

with

the

on

draught
a

faint

the
and
and

the

crossed
earth.
the

to

flush

wan

weaiy

it

was

wine-cup

on

before
The

dregs ;
the
eyes

as

and

but

sadly tremulous

that
sine-u-y,

duty bound,

him,

grasped

and

looks

drained

king

ashen
"

in

for

his

moment

features,a lurid

only

to

fade

as

hand, though
his

wine

cup

94

SARCHEDON.

tlie

while
whicli

deep

lioarse

very

came

and

broken

sunrise

?'

outside

waits

Is it

'

AVlio

Sargon, the roj'alshield-bearer,'was

been

Prince
the

of

Light,

horizon

so

soon

bent

Ninus

volubilityof
!' said

Halt

'

have

dogs

yet again

It

their

lord

my

his

shaggy

his

servant.

he.

let

the

repress

seemed
'

Reach

and

the

the

sword

hear

laugh

to

they

above
at

appears

to

my
had

and

gown,'

shall

good
done

weapon,

spoil, and
not

lest the

thy tongue,

no

the

Fill

camp.

endless

of this

more

have

one

its

presence;

brim,

me

did

draught

strength.

said he

'
"

! that

svrord !
but

By
shekel

more

heavy

which

Ha!

one

if Baal

their

belt

of

than

hangs

half the

take

the

the

in

one

they might

welcome.

king's

goblet to

Fool

old

for

the

in

his

renew

girdle yonder.
"

displeasure on

old vrarrior's second

The

that

me

Ashtaroth

the

king

in

of it without

me

smile.

somewhat

of horse

Shamash,

gods.'

death

was

in

Sethos, replenishing the

but

answer,

himself

the

brows

Rein

'

share

; and

about

jargon

as

; and

show

doubtless

will

the

of his tent.'

the door

the

near

cock-crow

since

guard

on

in

Setlios,

lie asked

has

not

voice

and

service
share

of

Nimrod,
a

tenth

thousand

god

the

richest

bus}^v.ith

slic vrill say

refused

mountains.

of the

had

cost

him

But

the

from

chafed

to

largely share

think

in

the

in the

of

countenance,
his
and

his

drawing
air

ago,

in

the

again,
that

eyes

are

there

of

the

while

crueltyto

he
it

possess.

inseparable

king's heart

of this

and

of Baal

should

his

and

last

it
so

most

Xile.

him

in

every
own

came

fondly,whom

so

votaries

fruits

respect, marked

usual

long

face

and

the

Sethos, standing before

attitude

what

her

acquisition,almost

expeditionbeyond

successful

the

was,

loved

of crime

of

her

anger

war-worn

he

strong

was

him

grim

much

when

once,

yonder

up

he

as

weary

woman

so

return.'

my

his

passion

age,

Satan

but

over

ruin

to

I wonder

angered

worship nothing

Old, exhausted,

thought

to

vratchingfondly for

gentle look

loath

be

would

I will

though

it at

triumph.

worship

to

enough

every

treasure-house.

about

the

beautiful

my

"

it is

built

will

and

beard,

my

Why,

ever

them.

people are

when

that

95

NATIONS.

gods, by

priests!

king

reduce

must

the

Thirteen

tliis time

OF

KING

THE

the

shade

prescribed
of his

conclusions,

imperturbable good

and

lord's
serving
pre-

humour

self-conceit.
The

early flush

of

sunrise

now

stole

under

the

96

SAECHEDON.

been

had
Bid

'

stood,

he

feet where

they

sound

trumpets,' said

that

in

once.

at

the

vanguard

"VMiere

waiting before

been

Wine,

sloth, and

well.

Yet

rode

through

hither; and, Sethos,

So

soon

as

the

details

purple
the

of

on

and

the

crowds

Babylon

itself.
son

yet verging

and

back

of

gold, with

adoring

in

in

Ninyas,
on

loaded

felt
a

hand,

on

the

manhood,

all too
first
ing
deal-

Gro, bring him

the

camp,

call in the watches.

I shall march.'

loved

Ninus
of

better
at

such

vanguard,

than
in

steel

seated
over

or

even

in

head,

object of worship

Nineveh,

or

all the

ease

royal parasol
an

now.

his

in

good steed, than

the

ancient

more

ere

them

through

marrow,

encampment,

an

royal sceptre

His

pass

Go

should

horsemen,

marshalling

the

as

royalty;

of

harness,

you

are

tent

himself.

the very

to

ordering

pomp

camels

the

warrior

minute

Pharaoh's

'

themselves
He

bow

if

as

king.

set

loves

good

captain of the night to

the

order

as

must

he
a

like Nimrod

him

about

drew

the

father's

"

boy

looked

Ninyas?

his

pleasure

the

battle,and

is

cup-bearer's

sandals

his

in blood.

them

array

that

so

dipped

tell Arbaces

have

tent, crimsoning the

of the

hangings

to

great

contrary, though scarcely

was

already steeped

in

KING

THE

sensuality,and
of

the

slave

have

been

camp

and

and

likeness

and

womanly

vice.

less

city but

those

in
fidelity

Sethos

was

his

father's

of the

the

save

harness
his hand

almost

old

'What
thus

girta

his dull stern

maiden

in

is

into

hand,

and

if those

bear the
VOL.

weight of
I.

the

he

denoted

his

brows

visited

Ninus

was

of

had

put

neither

upon

king's shaggy

unveiled

needle

sword

which

he

moment,

head-piece,had

nor

hid

the

taken

everything
neither

on

spear

lowered

till

unmanly
heavier

they
"

this,' said

busy

in

thigh.

eyes.

camp

the

on

apparel. Though

disordered

negligence,as

follyof
nor

The

lithe

prince,

tent, leaning

displeasurewith

unwarlike

the

respectfulhaste,

in

face and

his flushed

with

favourite

prime

cup-bearer'sshoulder,

such

startling

boyish features, that

delicate

approached

careless

rare

of form.

symmetry

by

whose

with

reproduced

were

graces

in

exceeding beauty

mother, Semiramis,

his

to

outbreaks

and

lad's

from

perhaps would

father

excesses

the

for

indulgence

degenerates

soon

grim

patient of

reckless

that

so

His

97

NATIONS.

to

appetites which

pleasure into

who

OF

he,

'who

of warriors?

them

with

fingersbe

comes

Go, take

cunning
too

broidery
em-

dainty to

steel.'
H

98

SARCHEDON.

It

death

was

death

to

assume

the

again,

while

the

hands

fresh

the

in

presence,

tude
prescribed atti-

tent, the

caught

air, and

answered

voice

young

theless
never-

the

through

rang

his

king's

crossed

king's goblet

tossed

boy
it

peal

merry

than

and

head

bowed

with

other

any

the

in

laugh

to

lightly,
is

There

like

fighting at

rod

himself.

the

this

is

it with

begin

time

proper

well

as

old

as

drink-offeringto

Nim-

victory and

of

day

and

things, father,

all

joicing.
re-

lord

my

king.'
held

He
to

the

wine-skin.

old

lion

gesture
*

hand
that

be

harness

bow
came

those

lad's

in itself

was

with

you!'

heavy

too

said

hand.

riding

into

camp

heart.'

while

laid his
with

of

'and

if

young

bones,

It

thus

the

of hers.

something

he

he,

for those

brows

left in

was

the

large

kindly

caress.

in

arched

fluid

shoulder,

spear

and

face, lad, and

wilful

the

on

ing
spoke, laugh-

contagious, and

was

smile

grim

he

while

generous

mirth

His

Begone

take

little of the

smiled

wrinkled

Sethos

to

cup

how

see

the

saw

the

But

for

season

her

was

have

proud

at

your

first time
You

proven

I
her

least
ther
mo-

ever

fair

spirit and

100

SARCHEDON.

than

when

encircle

drawn

and

Even

be

The

darker

that

their

colour

with

wounds

and

before

they

of

more

to

The
the

have

their

and

bearing.

so

swarthy
with

and,

such

several bore
had

they

it

as

fought

hard

whiter-skinned

flowing beards, high

accept the proceedings

forbearance

the
a

certain
and

conscious

of

sympathy,

traditions

in

of

as

common

masters.

imposing
that

horsemen

As

to

interests

admiration

Assyrian

in

without

superiority,not

with

tinct
dis-

statelybearing, w4io kept entirelyapart

captors

who

that

with

race,

spears.

bronze, scowled

alive ; while

taken

larity,
regu-

of

were

conquerors,

showed

themselves, seemed

their

those

like

reason

injuriesas

features, and
and

band

of whom

their

better-favoured

mathematical

of feature, form,

on

were

in

kinds, separate and

of two

looked

the

allotted station, and

chosen

portion, some

seemed,

and

disposed

detail

hatred

peculiar

their

guarded by

every

to

its foe.

prisonerswere
in

winding shining lines

captives had

spoil were

to

These

annihilate

the

Tvdth the

in

out

of

all,however,
of those

appearance
formed

the

was

compelled by

war-chariots

strength

and

pride

and
of

an

army.

the

old

king, tottering somewhat

under

the

of

weight

his

tent, the
and

harness, appeared
host

entire

scarlet

gHttering in

and

their

of those

trample

neither

fatigue
marched

tread,

bearded,

horses

dark

curled, and

by

of the

desert

that

then, with

next, the war-chariots, thousands

roll like

solid

but

little

the

and

portable,but

the

of

image

on,

as

if

one

every

with

enemy

outright

white

steeds, and
of

gold.

of the
the

chariot

In

host,
and

and

to

be

of whom

rear

rode

immediately

led horse

steel.

of the

dejected,
dignity,
small

idols

These

down

by

them, picked
have

hand,

own

slain

an

mounted

shields

on

and

mets
hel-

Ai-baces, the
behind

monarch

in

on

came

gold.

must

glistening with

and

number,

and

ridden

in

lance

in

other

succeeded

who

their

and

of sacred

molten

of

his

few

feared

king's body-guard

champions,

weary

assumption

formed

they

man

iron, tipped with

bull

spears,

every

they

as

priestsof Baal,

bore

hurried

thigh,

on

thunder,

moving

few

with

walking

distant
of

mass

these

After

sword

of

warriors,

stalwart

knew

stately even

column

serried

hand
with

of

neigh

the

shield

arm,

men
of horse-

aboTe

with

on

bowmen

"

body

sounded

fear;

nor

motion

of his

gold,raising clouds

and

trumpets

door

the

at

in

set

was

front, followed

in

sHngers

dust, while

101

NATIONS.

OF

KING

THE

him

tain
capcame

himself.

102

SAECHEDON.

these

As
tent

reached

pitched, the

was

of steel

shiver

force

the

ripple of

the

shouted

the

roj'al
and

halted,
a

along

wave

brandished

man

every

and

head,

his

over

which

on

whole

like

ran

ranks, while

their

mound

the

his weapon
of the

name

Great

King.
stood

Ninus

unmoved,

seemed

wi-inkles

less

furrowed

of

caught sight

with

his

wine

half-emptied in
The

it to

horse,

had

at
never

for his

knees

off his

from

have

his

son

marked
*

you

lord

the

quick

chariot,

and

him,

in

was

bade

came

of

cup

and

unseated

many
the

his

the

down

war-

hands

on

and

greater advantage

plunged
a

he

scowl

same

settlinghimself

Xinus,

war-horse

but

curvetting and

with

with

mount

bring

up

Sargon,

to

waiting ;

them

left his face, went

fixedlyin

with

younger

in the
that

force

rider,looked

face, observing in

tone

cf

reproach,

Couches
never

its bit.

back,

saddle, while
would

that

fieryanimal,

champing
that

and

on,

pass

his

his hand.
chariot

king's own

caused

beside

They

his

Ninyas recliningin

Sethos

favourite

brow.

when

ever,

the

instant

an

his

on

gathered,however, deeper than

eye

for

though

for
learn

women

to

! chariots
your

for eunuchs

cost, boy, that

!
his

May
good

the

is

horse

OF

KING

THE

only

103

NATIONS.

throne

secure

for

Assyrian

an

king!'
he

Then

out,

rang

globe

of

the

with

whole

Nations

triumph,

emblematic

fire.

more

his

^6

last

of

tent,
As

itself

set

once

hand,

on

march

campaign.

""'^

the

sun,

"U-f%

pets
trum-

weapons,
and

illumined

flashed

motion,

the

their

was

it

in

while

and

recovered

royal

sacred

after

his

warriors

the

army
was

and

crystal,

above

priest

with

signed

and

and

the

towards

pended
sus-

by

kindled,

King
his

of
last

^m

CHAPTEK

THE

the

Babylon

Great

attire, like

Brass

welcome

in

her

hung

knee

-deep in

by

tens

which
the

and

broad

her

herself

lord.
wall

From
to

on

the

flowers.

Her

temple

river

dotted

was

population were

heart

the

tanks

the

her

of the

of the

with

roof

of those

of

and

of

waved

balcony

in

strewed

Euphrates,

of every

beautiful

their

endless

Baal

shouting

paradises or

women

of

terraces

city,while

boats

rayed
ar-

Gates

even

shape
as

the

gardens

distinguishing characteristic

pride. Myriads

scarfs from

the

streets, and

either bank

on

in holiday

dame

scarlet,hlazing Avith gold,and

through

formed

out

splendid

colour, fantastic, gaudy, and

exotics
which

her

of thousands
ran

EYE.

loyal and

centre, squares,

with

were

THE

pranked

southern

her

in

OF

had

some

to

towering

LUST

VIII.

and

veils and

perspective,

THE

while

countless

of welcome

cry

It

to

were

decree

on

similar

be

seen

of the
of

presence
the

mighty

furnish

it

as

in the

Besides

every

throughout
of

influence

of bow

the

and

Assarac,

glitteringarms
and

Of

of their
the

words
left

and

gay

group

the

immediate
the

dresses

and

their

linen

by

in their hands.

seemed

from

from

through

countrymen

lotus-flowers

these, Beladon

voluble, gliding

the

of every

sacrifice

to

the

scattered

were

masses

spear,

under

crowd, conspicuous amongst

garments

and

others, chosen

therefore

an

frontier.

dedicated

space

city; while

Baal,

of

open

thus

receive

priestsoccupied the porches

and

servants

champions

the

by

could

to

the

returning from

these

of white-robed

temple

home

at

army

the

denoted

as

which

to
sex

been

enforced

of warriors

empire,

an

weaker

had

Such
decree

array

of

formidable

of comrades

army

an

resources

of the

none

streets.

Queen

strong

so

to every

that, contrary

however,

occasions,

Great

shriller echo

rose.

remarkable,

was

custom

added

children

105

EYE.

THE

OF

LUST

the
to

busiest
with

group

impressive gestures, which

most

plausible

nevertheless

on

his

listeners

sense

of dissatisfaction

in

the

pageant, the victory,and

general results

of the

nameless

and

Egyptian campaign.

106

SARCHEDON.

the

Amongst

of

the

feeble

the

spoil,and
^Not

the
much

the

bearded
even

and
thus

not

could

that

bore

on

laughed,
at

I wonder
*

blow

The
and

Look

'

ranks

three
you

may

spear

of both
and
a

of

on

head

the
armies

with

hewed

swore

broad-leafed

if he

even

faithful

King

my
at

oak

hath

service

in
me

with

back.

now

on

ay !

giant whom
own

him
the

whole

my

and

I slew

hand.
like

was

myself

one

ment
gar-

It

Ninus
cutter
wood-

northern

hills.

to-day.'

forgotten many

since

and

torn

breast, and

will remember

Great

or

Bactria, when

of

little

curled

at his

there

wered
fighting,'ans-

bowman

my

and

vanguard passing

shield

arrows

to

it was.'
of

at the

in from

see

himself

heard,

warrior

every

scars

priest.

occupied one

have

way

dinted

marched

we

my

sight

in the

strength

country

where

stalwart

quiver full

count

face

remains

eyes.

their

who

captives,I

Scarcely a

now.

skin

in

other,

in

of the

distant

boast

to

to the

in

'

frontier

sentiment

he, addressing

"

Few

discontent
a

nothing

of spearmen

Gates

success.

to

observations

band

Brazen

doubtful

lost

war,' said

of

captain

the

from

bitterness
'

of

which

insubordination,

and

indeed

apparent, amounting

most

was

this

perhaps

warriors

then,' answered

stout

Bela-

108

SARCHEDON.

nine

weaknesses

and

freelydiscussed
of Baal.

temple
moving
than

beauty

the

world!

is

high

matters

amongst

The

in

the

who

moved

out

fill the

we

she

what

so,

little

the

rule

Beladon

and

"

reserve

prospect

above

gods

will

"

rid of this

were

goddess

adviser

with

neither

who

temples

his

game.

of

the

had

of

the

that

fierce old
nor

back

the

round

men

that

had

relish

the

the

the

of

having

crowd, he proceeded

had

ener
listof

course

in

the

alteration

"

walls, streets,
a

won

paradise

for

sufficient

to discuss

of interest

been

royal palace

levelled

borders

observation

grain

bade

city, wondering

provisions,a subject
them

and

on,

turned

would

enlarge the

This
from

paces

gardens

Ninus

few years
to

few

queen

of her

how

and

attention

fountains

breath

Ninus,

value

only

fears

how

stream

same

if

us,

more

foresight,

than

altar,a

an

people,compared

he

mark

to

before

so

in

man

Assarac

of

'

?'

Then

chief

muttered,
"

when

come

circle in the

he

more

courage,

Queen,

spectators

than

is her

or

the inner

of

more

must

Great

woman,

group

counsels

gash

unbeliever,
below

in

day

the

before

opens

lion

Assarac

than

cunning,

the

in

More

'

in

than

priestsof

to another

away

woman

more

the

by

the

caprices of

to

the

all, reminding

strangelycheap

THE

the

during

the

Were

King's

or

making

war

the

on

an-hungered
on

the

scarcityand

feel

be

to

Men

looked

blankly

their

heads

for

barren

on

in

other's

war

Great

but

such

all

after

King

they

been

far

away

was

it that

was

now.

is

seed
on

have

never

bread?
shook

never

sown

minds

many

of his

not

was

come

to

own

been

none

the

back

from

the

at all.

A
a

the

had

Great

faces, and

it dawned

city,which

nearer

the children's

founding, but his queen's, would

worse

; had

why

price

the

for

and

triumph, they began

in each

and

and

Ninus

while

in

up

nearer

sparing of

reply ;

ground,

their

that

gone

know

to

return

dominions,

worse

frontier ; and

of his

day

have

or

wanted

he

presence,

athirst

better

they

his

advanced

army

100

EYE.

from

should

millet

conquering

home.

THE

absence

king's

marvelling why
as

OF

LUST

hundred

Discontent

daybreak
themselves
wheels

priests prating

hundred

quarters produced
soon

would
in

were

demonstrations

to

have

asked

as

far

no

under

prepared

displeasure,and,

the

as

to

effect

same

contemptible

and
disloyalty,

grew

adoration

now

no

to

better
the
receive

result.

who

men

than

in

to

at

fling

king's chariothim

they dared,

with

in

sullen

outward

of ill-will.

Yet, like clouds

before

the

northern

breeze, all

110

SAKCHEDON.

these
the

of disaffection

sj^mptoms

glitter of

first

trumpet-blast without
approach

to

"

be

pageant should

There

was

of
in

shoal

the

check

paramount

lion

loved

have

had

Baal

to

the

revolt.

and

weakened

campaign
showed

; had

influence

steersman

tide.

of the

the

return

over

the

populace

the

the

force

numerous

enough
not

fire at
hesitated

treachery

from

Egypt

fatigues
within

impatience

his- materials

to take

have

of

seemed
moment's
that

of

servants

of

back

disorganised by
the

all the

old

would

and
priestcraft,

marched

of

The

queen.

suspected them

army

tion
gratifica-

dreaded

power
with

for the

ings
feel-

aimed

daring ambition

scruple in putting

the

flow

dynasty

priests nor

in short, had

would

nations
alter-

the

as

and

long

stronger symptoms
;

Assarac

own

sword, if he
Had

ebb

his

had

to his

neither
small

watched

who

multitude

of

He

pride.

and

away.

penetrated the wavering

overthrow

the

and

shouting

intellect

at the

as

the

and

the

people, while

Ninus

of his

notice

triumph

the

first

watches

of the

of its

or

died

however,
in

temper

keen

Assarac's

even

have

one,

water

when

by

away

desert, the

giving

the

when

over,

should

excitement

walls

the

return,

the

in

spears

swept

were

one

the

its

of

walls

and

content
dis-

but

flammab
in-

notice,
moment

in

applying

in

torch

the

also

was

patient to

in

strong

marched

with

greet

their

of

Assyrian empire

triumph

was

the

toils.

Assarac,

in

priest,standing

their

read

the

as

text

Semiramis

her
she

in

raised
awe

even

came

to

Heaven,
voice

over

the

descended

finding

with

vent

at

to

be

him

the

on

taken

in

high-

as

every
that the

turn
stars

difficult page

to

more

look

magnificence that,

beauty, seemed

to

than

When

as

human.

down

if

in their

last,such

on

that

people, so

It seemed

shout.
had

to

thus

blance
sem-

heart.

unrivalled

veil

Not

watched

such

no

fain

citywere

of honour

bethought

splendour

the

at least the

lion

place

woman's

own

her

old

queen,

attired

was

her

enhancing

of

the

with

his

afi'orded

courses

out,

sufficiencyof

within

the

and

countenance,

marched
"

good-will.

the

near

queror's
Con-

Great

is of all excitement

brethren-in-arms

cordialityand

blow,

his

supplies flushed

in

victory and

hosts

of his

The

it had

as

enthusiasm
the

strike

to

time.

home

day

of her

his

easy

catching,and

most

swift

in courage,

an

Warlike

spoil.

abide

numbers,

moreover

an

Ill

EYE.

whole

set the

to

priest,though

army

in

THE

blaze.
But

to

OF

LUST

THE

the

crowd,

they

forbore

Ashtaroth, Queen
midst
a

; but

pent-up

velop
en-

of

single

burst

o^

112

SARCHEDON.

cheers

paler,and

shade
eager
if

and
with

that

her

and

her

nation

believe

she

was

mould,

the

same

only

at home.

the

from

face, but

would

on

one

word
who

caught

diamonds

the

or

in

she

same

chariot
he

on

smile.

an

act

And
to

of

the

drawing

to naked

looked

felt death

scarcelyto perform

and

the

have

same

passions,with

to

of

possible to

all, of the

corn

cated
inculhalo

in the

scarce

gilded warrior

asked

the

homage

herself

had

after

as

was

neck

hreast

of that

was

pounding

his

gold,

her

her

besides

man,

round

emblems

woman

in

set

on

again

up

empire, representing

wrapped

left

captain
not

kind

eyes.

origin,and

From

way-side,

and

nature, the
had

drudges they
water

of

surpassing beaut}",it

own

as

golden tissue,crowned

in

it seemed

rohe

Principle which

the

on

it with

were

crescent-moon,

Evil

the

dark

people

divine

precious jewel

cock

by

turned

scanning

star-shaped ornaments

denoted

most

to

in

fair face

admiration,

deep

of ruhies

the

wearing

was

of the

diadem

who

him

in her

Clad

again.

her

to

rose

shouts

The

sky, that

curiosityand

of

gaze

moisture

the

to

rose

slave,

leper at
that

the

lovely

cheaply purchased
these

encounter

homage

were

no

lavished

danger

"

in return.

Sarchedon, flushed, dazzled, bewildered

by

the

THE

position,found

in

signet;

from

the

because

but

be

Once

stolen

she

fixed
of its

ignorance

and

neck,

had
of

her

had

of the

look

interpreted as

the

eyes

details

of the

while

the

Was

they

so

the

of

the

on

them

them

was

dangerously
Once

and

was

VOL.

more

not
I.

She

of the

daughters
"

he

it

true

the

and

eye

but

speak,
turning

and

be

the
with

heard

him

thus

guard,
van-

far

Great

in

King.

spoil?

much

of

about

the

Had
men
wo-

concerning

Sarchedon

women

tience
impa-

beautiful

there

Were

checked

why

in, should

"

in

round

with

questioned

had

could

approval.

openly

wore

to

she

South

the

nished
asto-

amulet, which,

encumbered

captives?

many

King's
his

to

and

favour

high

body

so

army

among
the

Great

pageant, wondering

main

sibly
osten-

interceptedthat

he

about

already marching

'

there

queen.

ownership,

seemed

Assarac

advance

right hand,

pleased

herself,sighing languidly, and

to

her

at

of the

camp

he

captivethe fancy

Many

his

installed

reality,something whispered

senses,

taken

113

EYE.

THE

prime favourite, placed

bearer

as

OF

himself

officer and

chief

LUST

could

Egypt

were

tell
so

fair ?'
she bent

her eyes

displeasedto

mark

on

the young

the colour

warrior,

deepen
I

on

114

SARCHEDON.

his

the
of

thought

Your

'

the

from

sparkle
"

of

lustre

been

the

stopped

more

reserved
of

one

the

in

it you

or

her

amongst

vain

you

women

the

almost

at

he

off

by

stood.

the

'

tone,

She

Shall

Kalmim,

she

to

blush,

Even

Semiramis,
none

name

not

and

round
after

one

modest

her

bowed

splendid armour

him

and

handsome

warrior's

to

looked

spoke,

of admiration,

thus

plead guilty?

She

?'

ing,
add-

have

bowmen

do you

while

liked

beauty

I press- him

it

Egyptian,

no

Pharaoh's

the

omnipotent,

laugh,

faint
was

rough

diadem

the

in

and

'

Did

gold ?

people, whose

you

it

was

"

or

with

short

glances

queen,

figure,set
which

with

set

maiden,

or

another, trying hard

disclaimer

in

at which

archer

this victorious

and

own

our

heart

aiming

you

of

zone

strangely dazzled,'

been

bewildered
cut

or

She

then, but
reached

so

mine,

in

'

in

by

the

to

glitter

exceeding graciousness;

with

that

diamond

the

have

must

eyes

repliedSemiramis

Is

the

seen

once

gems.'

meaner

of

has

from

Bahylon

to

thenceforth

is hlind

diamond

returned

who

man

his

face,

till I

so

But

host.

her

from

looks averted

with

answered,

he

low

howing

cheek, while

unmarked
face

and

apparel in

proud, conquering,
the

worse

that

116

SARCHEDON.

his heart.

straightat
bull, fiercer
the

been

words,

causing
than

rather

Sarchedon's

the

other.

He

than

to

and
of

was

such

drive

avowal

his feet at the

Not

him,

was

terrace

half

eyes

would

he

invitation

bow-shot

the

gentle

of her

father's

of

his

brain

vanity possessed

of

kindled

to be

Queen

slain
was

and

the

in

pled
tram-

nobler

lot

prostrate nations,'

over

the

to

learn

be

received,when

started

approach

'

Great

war-chariot

pale, and

turned

the

raising his
an

her

of ambition

low, that

by

accompanied

thrilling and

intoxication

fieryspark

foot

the

loving

convey

was

muttered

under

for

but

defiance.

sweet

the

one,

to

heart

The

burning.

them

fore
be-

down

go

!'

glance, that

soft

warlike

needs

must

the wild

than

ungraceful boast,

an

smile, the

sweet

lion,

of Semiramis

weapons

had

It

the

than

bolder

Warriors

like

how

who

man

humility
his

face

leaps to

danger.

off, looking fixedly towards

troubled

face

of

Ishtar,

palace,watching

the

on

for the

chief

captain'sreturn.
The
its

cause.

close
set

on

did

queen
Her
the

themselves

fail to detect

not

flashed, her delicate

eyes

instant

like

his

as

if with

mask,

agitationand
mouth

clasp,her

beautiful

shut

features

mask, but

of

THE

steel.

hardest

the
Hon

and

down
when

she
an

she

she

hard
of

Arbaces

the

the

nears

the

from

of

of ten
for in that

Ninyas,

and
She

girl;

thousand
chariot

living

marked

she

marked

thoughts
head,
her

she

peace.

directed

the

voices
their

as

the

son's

looked

busy
abroad

and

future

mother,

queen

herself.

in
into

her
the

pompous

higher

the

desert

young

licate,
bright, de-

of the

royal

while

tions
acclama-

and

uneasiness

she
Ishtar

the

of his

admiration

in

king,

sionate,
pas-

when

Gate,

higher

rose

Sarchedon's
were

eyeing

towards

Brazen

brandished,

reflection

her

daughter

falcon

passing slowly

stood

beautiful

the

at

gazelle

same

through
steel

waved,

were

bunal,
tri-

King's

glances, pleading,

of that

chariot

triumph

when

plains.

desert-spring,were

gorgeous

march
veils

as

of

suppliant pleadinj:^

unhooded

an

ranks
she

Great

shot

moment

same

longing,

of

the

the

looked

so

looked

so

the

she

glance

that

gazelle upon
at the

slain ;

rode

through

pitilessfrom

The

she

heart

the

to

chariot
of

when

she

justice from

was

And

him

her

heaps

turned
life.

for

looked

urged

administered
and

So

pierced

over

enemy,

OF

117

EYE.

THE

LUST

pale
but

and
and

fair

ever
what-

lovely
held

CHAPTEE

THE

As

the

the

well

nation
of

its

be

proud

on

earth

old

conscious

bold

of feature,

haughty

step

picked

slingers

captains,
chariots

defiled

while

and

and

Each

the

champed,

of

erect,

curled

so

as

though

champion
the

very

staid
horses

snorted,

arrsLj

and

of

like
war-

the

flower

the

corded
ac-

spearman,
and

bearded,
with

marched

self
felt him-

he

drew

swelled

who

men

host.

riors
war-

triumph

dignity
that

most

and

black-browed

stately of gesture,

chosen

assumed

greet

like

meed

open-eyed,

head

and

to

conquest

the

deserve

so

The

children.

themselves

bore

proud

in

imperial city, Babylon

from

fellows.

of limb

and

LIFE.

assembled

had

king

they

stalwart

the

of her

returning

to their
so

OF

that

of

gates

army
of the

are

PRIDE

glittering procession

through
might

IX.

Archers

of

veteran

the

their

war-

crests

THE

if

as

they

too

them
Far

PRIDE

stretched

had

triumph

the

already reached

its

van

its

rear-guard was

yet below

link

chain

every

"

in that

the

were

their

in

bronzed,

fury of

the

and

cubit

with

of

clang

eyes

and
the

drank

from

to the

gates

of the

of

been

bent

battle

with

they

clash

eager

who

Tigrisand
Memphis

the
and

pose
pur-

ancient

driven

back

in

of

dress

withstood

Great
in

King's

their

other, with
the

rear,

ring

the famous

how

nor

bered
out-num-

sore

steel, and

each

and

horsemen,

Close

gestures,

spectators.

the

the

four abreast
told

ject
ob-

some

had

and

covered

trumpet,

men

the desert

statelyspearmen,

chariots

river.

and

and

that

to such

and

splendid

so

famous

Assyria ;

the

ground, though

trampling

bridle, came
of

of

pride to

or

warriors

very

beset,while

of that

passage

hoved
be-

of Baal, while

victoryafforded

strong

all Pharaoh's

yielded one

sky-line of

worsted

scarred,
the

were

armour,

the

had

was

Those

so

temple

pitched

Egypt

Nile.

the

upon

that

first

when

enemy,

so

bows

far indeed

so

"

the

of

of interest,admiration,
These

reputation it

uphold.

to

as

of the

conscious

were

119

LIFE.

OF

steeds

of

men
horseling
kindthat

Euphrates had charged

been

stabled

in the temples

Stork.

Next, with horses

gorgeously caparisoned,
trapped.

120

SARCHEDON.

Each

horses

; three

spear

harnessed

were

only

the

accustomed

by
while

the

horsemen

the

of the

of array

than

such

youth.

noble

To

please

the

example

the

back

bred

of

in the

of
so

the

rent

galloping
grace

and

on,

the

with

steed.
even

awe

limbs

moving

pared
com-

of the

body

and

army,
feet.

of metal

mass

and
a

been

have

must

fierce old

his

goodly

side
along-

fallen

personal dignity

as

Ninus,

driven

host, less distinguished for

plain between

acclamations
came

face

third, linked

bystanders,was
and

and

of which

two

or

struck

of that

rear

captain

splendour
and

chest

enemy

sword

arrows,

represented its
in

Immediately
rode

the

to

an

heavily-armed

maimed

of the

senses

them

and

which

array,

their

they passed.

bridle,was

replace a

to

formidable

of

where

chariot,while

to the

its fellows

with

bow

rein, rolled

ranks

plunged abreast,
the

to

in readiness
This

slaughter

shield, with

under

the

charioteer,held

its

besides

car,

warrior

of

swathes

broad

the

iron, that, with

of

down

steel,mowed

of

scythes
in

war-chariots

terrible

the

on

stepping daintilyunder

and

plumed,

master,

abandoned

steed
the

could

as

rivers.

air while

managing

this

his

bearing

beautiful
he

only have
If

in

followed

his chariot

for
been

thousand

statelyveteran

war-horse

pliancy of youth, they

of

were

with

all

increased

PRIDE

THE

when

he

drew

Ishtar

and

her

tenfold
stood
while

looked

he

121

LIFE.

OF

beneath

rein

the

halting for

maidens,

fondly upward

his

at

where

terrace

moment,

daughter

and

his home.
With

the

arms

towards

down

into

from

the

felt

him,

child,she

if she

as

embrace.

his

wall,

her

of

gesture

of

one

fain

have

leaped

his

to

her

on

thousands

many

thrill

beauty

innocent

would

her

out

Sarchedon, looking

but

was

stretched

who
heart.

very

Nevertheless, Assarac, narrowly watching Semiramis,

hard

turn

pitilessexpression

came

Arbaces
towards

while
'

made

his

his
a

paler,while

back

the

to

the

queen's

long delay. "Wa^^inghis

no

daughter, and

glancing proudly
he

applauding countrymen,
whisper

Stand

golden

shade

face.

unrivalled

on

cheek

her

observed

close

helmets

ran

"

through
here

they

! Honour

to

the

the

round

paced slowly

crowd

come

hand

on,

to the

Welcome

guards

of the

Great

with

scarlet

King!'
Two

by two,

mounted

trappings,arrayed in
shields
on

this

selected

and

helmets

picked
for

and

on

silks

white
of white

of burnished
chosen

strength

and

horses

body

and

scarlet,with

gold,came
"

every

beauty,

man

must

flashing
of whom,

also

have

122

SARCHEDON.

distinguishedhimself

by

an

attested

the

centre

floated

field.

likewise
in
on

of these
to

the

with

champions

by

close

their

man's

fringes of
beards
It

sword,

their

and

themselves

Sarchedon's

eyes

pleasure while

think

that

brethren

these
in

he had

ranks

tidings of

the

were

they passed.

He

his

; that

arms

been

own

it

was

detached

; the

spear

perfumed.

of the

Great

King's

demanded

whisper
are

cheek
was

glowed
proud

their

from
the

to

and

special comrades

with

him,

Who

pommel

champions

his

kindly towards

'

with

royaltyesteemed

flashed, and

his

and

than

marked

above

of his

of

guards

queen

The

inlaid

belt and

shaft

fended
de-

host.

Assyrian

with

the

less ornaments

no

otherwise

inordinatelylong, their

were

these

arms

elbow, their legs

elaborately curled

that

The

thickly

the

standing

hand.

were

persons

and

of war,

to the

studded

gowns

hair

evident

was

his

standard,

embroidered

was

god

scale -armour,

gold ; precious jewels

of each

in

bare

were

but

knee;

bow

drawn

their

its folds

on

figure of Merodach,

the

bull

scarlet, and

of

gold

their

In

daring in

of

act

glittering

royalsignetand

return.

enthusiasm;
in

soft

and, bending
voice,

scarce

these, Sarchedon

To

my

eye,

they

124

SAKCHEDON.

the arrow's
the

shaft

flight.

precious jewel
"

from

it.

life,and
'

'

her

as

heart.

it

upward,
fair and
to

you

part

closelyhereafter.'

more

exclaimed.

he

queen's!'

'Tis
lead

temptation

no

is

career

'As

is my

all I have.'
it till I

Keep

And

let

I will examine
is my

'It

long

pierce her

never

can

So

require it

tell me,

now

the

you,' was

the

you

answer.

these

Sarchedon, amongst

think

warriors, whom

of

fairest and

goodly

the

come-

liest ?'
'

There

with

him

are

Such

so

words

though

his

truth.

But

quickly on

own

the

the

king

; and

with

indolent

bow

and

but

heart

to

face

mental

no

told

him

for

he

his

of

man

or

reservation
had

overshot

"

the

duplicity followed

offence.
rare

smiles

greet

him

stole

over

the

queen's

of the multitude

rose

higher

who

that

good-humour
shield

quiver hung

and

spear

at the

hereafter

must

Ninyas, reclining in

His

compared

!'

one

acclamations

before

other

conveyed

of those

than

welcome.

"

punishment

Another

face, as

fair

be

to

in his chariot,' said

us

None

'

boldly.

half

woman

passing beneath

now

Sarchedon

host

in all the

none

back

his

chariot, accepted

loud
were

be their

and

boisterous

laid aside

of the

chariot.

"

his
On

THE

his

head,

back
a

from

which

daintily,he

so

light linen

of violet
and

PRIDE

of

of

could

for

'

My

'There

whispered
she
he

down

from

is

Assarac

yonder

of

I doubt
all that

admiration

on

comely

one

in

than

her

from

the

character

for

the

him

!
a

Yet

in

son

less
thought-

reputed

well-pleased,

'

ear.

attire

change

in

is it the

liness
come-

man.'
earth

on

here

us

countless
both.'

banquet,

effeminacy, only

on

woman

in male

if the

the

youth, beauty, and

rather
but

his

ance
appear-

king's

exclaiming:

is indeed
woman

by

of

lookingdown

sitting amongst

queen,
one

queen,

among

affectation

of such

one

son

of

of its value

an

that

enough

in

the

returning

be

it may

earned

refrain

not

"

tried

battle,lost nothing

The

attitude

warrior

carried

emptied,

cheaply

valour.

the

"

he

pleasure hastening to

Nevertheless,

in

since

Robes

exquisiteshape

of

field.

excusable

his

only

"

gold.

limb, while

long

attire

than

crowd,

of

cup,

rather

prowess,

circlet of

combed

were

of defence

looselyround

the

was

votary

curls

helmet

by

roundness

jewelled drinking

125

LIFE.

dark

no

tiara bound

womanly

It

the

wore

silk floated

hand.

OF

more

Nevertheless,

on

the

would

multitude

fair,'
were

war-chariot, and

royal
be
now

robes

of

suspected by
gazing

in

126

SAECHEDON.

from

with

going

Sethos, the

she

the

horses, by

chariot,both

lord
to battle

observed

under

the
the

at

looked

of vexation

The

at the

up

to the

where

to his

when

his
from

head

to

could

his

light on

lord's
the

and

the

the

hand, flung

terrace

within

high
him

Ishtar

and

to

flowers

herself,

king.

the

face,enhanced
Semiramis.
and

put

Then

deftlyupward

cubit

ment
mo-

remark

latter,taking
it

flowers,

in that

but

his

haps
Perrein

future

not

sat

drew

damsel

even

gracefulsalutation.

Sethos,

in

of

posy

the

quickly; and

Sarchedon

he

feet of her

prince lifted

lipswith

ments
move-

chase.

stood

extraordinaryresemblance

young

easiness
un-

Ninyas,

being

winning smile, that,brightening all

son's

the

certain

of

purpose,

terrace

instant

whii-lingdown
Ninyas

side

and

projected innocently enough by

her

deep thought,

usually accompanied

entirelywithout

maidens,

answer

below.

on

his young

immediately

came

in

king's eup-bearer, who

with

not

brows

displeasure,as

the

Guiding

in his

her

her

receive

to

Sarchedon, eagerlywatching

of

favour

bent

priest,and

the

mingled

her

expecting

started, not

She

of where

them

he

bent

the

cup

so

the

as

to

sel
dam-

stood.

'Keep

it for the

sake

of

Ninyas,' called

out

the

THE

he

giver, as
in the
'

on,

That

lilyin
the

his

And

of

the

answered

has

maiden,

her

ere

like

she

the

the

they

that

should

her

did
more

Sarchedon,

that

seemed

was

answerable

young

queen

cup,'

flingsaside

there

to catch

for
with
that

the

it

heel,
avoid

was

of mingled

insolence, a

if it had

as

der
shud-

and

she

touching
been

some

deprecate

to

while

should
addressed

of favour

as

the

conscious
It

spite of

how

daughter

imploring glance

one

cause.

she

warrior, and

demonstrations

than

aware,

its

action

an

to

fail to note

not

shot

of

all

path.

of Arbaces

character

spear.'

empty

he

to

garment

monarch,

future

Semiramis

and

head

from

of her

reptilein

she

and

an

I be

such

applaud

Ishtar

skirt

giftof

which

like

populace applauded loudly, as

over

the

noxious

tender

bow

our

goblet,may

slowly

taking than

When

'

gallantry,condescension,

moved

the

moved

falls !'

Though

crept

and

her with

Sethos.

laughing

the

chariot

pale

won

whispering

more;

Egypt, captives of
lord

my

natural

once

better worth

paradise,is

head

while

Sethos,

127

LIFE.

OF

comely maiden,

beauty
*

bowed

of

ear

PRIDE

was

woman

have
him
could

jealousy
of

than
leant
with
not

the

in

more

dignity

towards
such

of

being

not

perhaps

at

the

marked

fail to be ob-

128

SAECHEDON.

by Islitar,whose

served
were

She

might

possession

of her

and

'

their

lord

satisfied

of

the

servants

are

not

in

by

him

share

the

within
the

of Baal

Ninus

among

the

I must

away

is

this

conquest

destined

the

to

who

like

and

armour

the

Our

Caution,
instant,

long
Great
to be

be

who
and

whole

Queen

have

skins

followers,

grove,

take

ill-

point

whisper
declare

themselves
to

have

to

own

of the

stars

ere

freely
abroad,

already jeer

prophets

and

less

discontent

are

comrades.

and

gods.
on

walls

The

triumph

spoil. Those

of

unbacked

returning

in the

the

men-of-war

battle

to

pered,
whis-

priests.

forth

go
is

The

king.

strange auguries,
that

heard

out,' he

four

hearts

There

their

with

fingerat
their

and

their

with

remained
the

took

assembled

displeasure, relating

down

gone

for the

more

to be

as

so

men

partake

voices.

even

my

hundred

but

but

they shout,

of

once

carried

been

warriors

are

people admire,

and

who

Assarac,

have

of every

streets, ten

than

scension
conde-

greater

royal or prudent, but

speaking

ear,

directions

My

him

alone.

queen
*

of

intervention

renewed

shown

either

was

feelings

highest pitch.

have

even

than

the

to their

strung

now

and

perceptions

his

place

! caution

in readiness

at the

THE

head

of

the

on

thousand

PRIDE

OF

priestswho

steps hefore

the

will receive

little with

holds

hut

sacrifices to the

gods;

nevertheless

their very

stronghold. He

short and

that

outragedand

it

thousand

ten

horsemen.
what

See

chariot

"

and

in number

that

go

him

before

forbear

space

Pointing
towards

have

as

altar
Great

many

look

with

his

how

few

the molten

He

gods
I

comes.

! caution

is

passed on.

now

pacing

are

Queen

priest

an

the

and

and

battle.

to

Great

again, Caution,

metal

in

scant

every

jewelledtoy

iron

priestsare

chariot, too

empty

an

of

guards

of

ceremony

have

That

must

in this

flesh before

own

safely.

the

handful

and

however,

chariots

Behold,

such

Xinus

the

aggrieved. You

King's signet. Keep

worth

can,

not

of heaven

will make

to his

laid knife

ever

will feel

he

simple as

king

offeringsand

even

host

the whole

not, heard

the

loves

He

temple.

and
receptions,

not, dare

129

LIFE.

and

say

for

!'
his

warning

with

Assarac

Sarchedon,

expressiveglance

an

bowed

reverently and

withdrew.
Semiramis
moment
even

her

to

shudder

her feet.

lord's
VOL.

turned

I.

shade

seemed

The

next

approach, erect

to

she

and

paler, and
creep
stood

from

for
her

one

brow

forth to mark

beautiful,the
K

state-

130

SARCHEDON.

liest

she

as

queen,

the

was

fairest

the

in

woman,

world.
in

Immediately
the

on

of the

chariot

war

black

his

countrj'men

he

the

brief

that

as

space

slaughter of

his

His

changed.

dull

now

bearer
of

for

alteration

jubilee rose

that
could

not

have

mighty

Nimrod

The

Great

his

steed

which

the

once

of

moment

with

outlasts

glowed

with

fire.

in

the

first

black

and

the

dark

e3-es

light as

however,

shield-

of

Ninus,

shouts

the

from

people, and

assembled

in

Babylon

fuller,fairer welcome

marked
re-

of the

enthusiasm,

afi'orded

wholly

aspect

glimpse

more

cruel

so

lurid

Few,

In

the

seemed

nature

and

inner

scowl.

since

gray,

with

some

with

silent

elapsed

man's

downcast,

this

beard, formerly

very

and

from

though

the

greetingsof

vociferous

but

had

streaked

glossy,was

Sargon's lowering brow

returned

son,

King, containing his

to the

night,and

was

passed

royal standard

Great

shield-bearer.

and

charioteer

of the

rear

to

himself.

King

came

that

craft

at

on

of

foot's pace,

reining

practisedhorsemanship

and
failingsight,lost activity,

powers

impaired by

though

bowed

motion

of his

and

age.

His

large gaunt

tottering,swayed easilyto

steed ; his

broad

loose

bodily
frame,
every

hands, though

132

SARCHEDON.

music

fierce

battle, could

of

the

liis eye,

light to
mere

protractedand
old

grim
the

somewhat

bystanders

wearisome

they

was

pageant,

dream

His

till it seemed

lowered

that

"What

the

looking

were

to
a

on

in mail.

But

blood

the

once

rushed

shook

so

King's

Great

bridle,that

the

signal,bounded

his

trembling

like

maiden

down

Beaming

bright smile, he

him

in

made

the

The

home

wild

joy

the

calm
where

saddle
down

on

from
than

dreams.

that,

face

itself

air.

breath

the

from

him,

of battle

sat

not

Semiramis,
she

hard, and

had

face that

all

haunted
a

many

weary

earth, had

on

her

with

alone

in his fierce old heart.

had

of peace
he

of

he

Then

wall

long night-watches for

those

"

the

his

the

saw

strong hand

child.

him

on

own

month

or

his

good horse, accepting

freelyin

ghastly pale, drawing

turned

brightened, the

face

his cheek, and

redly to

on

the

him

visage.

unmeaning

an

and

sank

features

nearer

corpse

him

but

peacefultriumph

to his

colour

call

scarcely now

had

to

the

score

indeed

was

wall
of

looking
ever

at

come

but

over,

last.

whence

From
she

for

his

smiled

spear-lengths divided
fonder

appeared

and

even

more

in his

tiful
beau-

lonely

X.

CHAPTEE

On

the

first

customary
chief
a

The
the

for

of

state

stars

desert, when

night, lit

summer

residence

day.

It

with

up

brought

gigantic sculptures on
faced

lion, and

the

night

variegated hues
par

that

remote

glow, vivid

on

of

the
the
its

and

consort

rising from
the

as

royal

the

light of

the

strange grotesque relief the

the

wall, till winged bull, man-

rose

columns
upper

but

and
of

fell.

It

fleeting
and

threatened,

moved,

breeze

supported
recesses

red

that

his

of

court

eagle-headeddeity seemed

flickering shadows,
as

by

torches, flaring on
central

in

out

was

captains,

was

moon

the

fierce

his

it

special entertainment.

the

thousand

conquest,

received

to their

ah-eady out,

were

king,

be

to

banquet, offered

from

return

AssjTian

an

WINE.

OF

his

night of

officers

with

BANQUET

tired,
re-

played

poi-phyiy and

in

jas-

stoiy, blackening the

lofty chambers,

while

marble

134

SAECHEDON.

pillar,shaft
blushed

of

alabaster,carving,cornice, and
It shed

flame.

in crimson

massive

table, glitteringfrom

chalice
and

flagon,blazing in jewelled cup

brilliant

The

figures of
by

the

gems,

noble

those

; while

its power

lustre

flowers, the rich profusion of

wine, fruit,and

gold.

ruddier

capital

fiercer,ghastlierthan

ancient

of burnished

vase

costlyrobes, the stately

guests, were

enhanced

king'swan

face showed

the

in that

ever,

royal

and

on

tenfold

paler,

strong searching

glare.
procession had been

The

and

wearisome
the

to

not

was

been

in

strange

then

had

while

which

he

he
had

the

looked
so

often

stark

king

and
sat

grim,

at his

for

while

his breast, to

all appearance

and

overcome

; but

after

more

than

feeble

once,

saw

with

servance
ob-

despised;

since

daybreak.

his

chief

dead

with

his

It

heart

face, from
and

resource,

monarch

funeral

own

and

captain,

felt his

war-worn

gathered counsel

that he

him

grudgingly,
un-

he

have

ashy

tracted
pro-

ofi'ered,not

Arbaces,

the

on

triumph

delayed

saddle

that

himself

picturingto

The

had

gods,

against him, should

sittingover
sink

sacrifices

loathed, ceremonials

he

Ninus

long, the

siding,
pre-

feast.

head

sunk

on

thoroughly

out-wearied

had

his

Sethos

light came

filled
into

his

cup
eyes,

he

while
that

rather

those
looked
and

who

of his throne

positionas

leader, and

the

to

life from

character,a

stout

gates

the

of both
Seven

Judges

of the

eye,

scanning

seal of murder

sat

him

indeed

in

daring spirit,a
fiercest

chariot

"

archer

who

and

vowed

in

sacrificed

he

take

life after

Consulting Gods,
of the
victim.

Assyrian
Scowling
and

banquet;

by stealth,noted

scheming priest,unyet owning

nature,

enduring
drew

ever

Assarac, present

and

his brow.

too, the

more

fight,hand

had

the

warily and

form

skilful

he

each

at

apart

set upon

Assarac

was

as

propitiatedwith

single combat,

one,

till the
and

World,

host, firm

of the

in

Stars, so would

silent,Sargon

warlike

the

armies, that

pire.
em-

shield-bearer,who

by

one

the

of his

close

Memphis,

the host of Pharaoh

There

more

of

in
his

Sargon,

formed

who

counsellor,

war

He

number

the

bulwarks

sage

of

man

was

deities,had been

keen

with

captain

come
wel-

festival.

his

men

"

inquiry,

than

absent

at

very

in

the

hearing

these

and

the

Egyptian champions,

seven

the

and

Arbaces,

before

guests

was

there

hand;

slew

the

of his

importance

There

to

the

present

were

air of

haughty

threaten

to

135

-^'INE.

sternly satisfied,however,

props

in

with

glared around

seemed

OF

BANQUET

in

virtue

than

courage,

bow

from

of his

war-

ofiice to

136

SAKCHEDON.

drink

out

pour

if

cup

offerings,to

required,above
the

opinions

king. Though

the

scruple, his
falter; and

eye

never

when

he

his

was

who

of those

did

quailed,nor

hand

eunuch's

jealous

and

with

the

rounded
sur-

without

his

speech

goblet,filled

firm

pervision
su-

disliked,

to death

him

put

raised

divining

that Ninus

aware

have

would

suspected,and

brim, the

and

temper

with

watch

all,to

the

into

peer

its

to

steady

as

rock.
last-named

These

and

captains

king

; but

comely

Over

thousand,

of ten

and

face

less for his beautiful

watches

and
!

in

heat,

After

endless

wine

more

and

thirst !

palm

the

not

was

magnificent attire
and
hilarity,

than

boisterous

of discourse.

Once

toil

and

deep draughts,reckless

freedom

of

Sarchedon

whom

board.

presidedNinyas, distinguished no

least remarkable,

'

the

near

of the

noisy extremity

more

these, amongst

for his

placed

were

leaders

splendidin apparel,thronged

and

in person,

older

warriors, risingin fame,

of younger

scores

lower

the

persons,

Babylon,' said he,

and

those

worst

weary

by night,

pomegranate,

What

say

you,

peace

of

torturing

by day,

welcome

Sarchedon

after months

all, that

marches

and

'

to

the

land

Well,

of
and

plenty,women
?

those

trow

that, being of
Great

sit ; you

reading the
fool

would

revel and

Stars.

Seven

forth

go

'

My

the

not

while

he

archers

the

city of Pasht,
broke

we

who

'Well

said,

the

gods

had

been your

Great

of my

King,

themselves
a

and

in the

palace of

the

the

the

Pharaoh

strategj which
a

result.

of the

swear

Cat

!'

invested

siege ere

vain-glorious

I advised

as

that

week,

rather

one

the

our

sweet

drinking

wine

By

if Ninyas
the

than

Ethiopians
in

he

through

to you,

plain by

rear,

to lose

fought

river, and
of Eshcol

at this moment.'

Sarchedon

should
He

weary

the

on,

marshes

been

also

was

we

was

push

for

us

have left the

have

be that

It may

cost

idols

but

amongst

I would

to

stay

camps,

vineyardswhen

not

we

would

on

could

war-chariot

his

it had

or

leader

pitchedbattle

you

drove

fathers,I

he

but

peacefula mind,'

so

Sarchedon!'

did

reply. Why

were

palace.

of

seem

pieces the

in

of

lined her

the

with

familiar

usages

lord did

answered,

you

home.'

sleep at

stranger to

the

None

now.

who

in warfare

Sarchedon, though
no

where
if you

freelyas

Confess,

echo

you

hear you

truth

the

bids

duty

old lion cannot

speak

may

137

\^1XE.

liis guard, your

The

King.

OF

BANQUET

had
have

answered

his

own

conduced

opinion of
to

so

gravely enough

umphant
tri:

138

SARCHEDOX.

lord

*My

better in the
with

the

confessed

now

that

palaces of Babylon.

Is he

spoil,the

captives,and

lifted up

people ?

They

to-day as

it had

been

lazy

drones!'

The

'

When

shout,

that

my

scoffingold sire, in

you

the

you

busy

in

had

you

voices
than

sweeter

Did

best

me

for

in

calmness

*My
glances

his

You

Keach

least

at

thing
some-

like

am

I pour

"

No

; what

spoil nor
of

queen,

or

my

maiden

fairer than

glory

the

were

rose.

so

you

mother,

that

beside ?'

none

hideous

misgivings

that

with

answered

heart, Sarchedon

like

rose

forced

lord
of

handmaid.

Kalmim,

the

on

passed

them.

face

her, Sarchedon

attendance
eyes

hold

the

was

he

shall have

neither

It

of the

tener.
well-pleasedlis-

throat

own

was

satisfied

not

cheers

promise

honeysuckle and

mark

not

Stiflingthe
flood

to-day

of fools.
the

his

respect

my

far

was

himself.'

nay,

"

one

down
drink-offerings

pleased
nor

pray

lie

when

rule,they

to

me

all

voices

laughed

than

flagon,I

their

the

great Nimrod

come

to do

more

even

have

must

thousand

The

blind

by

and

damsels,

comeliest

in attendance
are

passed to-day

on

the

of aU

were

the

Great

beak

of

under

the

one

his

every

standing behind
Queen.'

Nisroch, you

must

140

SARCHEDON.

beard

the

By
than
the

of

of

any

that

believe

me

Hear

armies

in

array

the

on

the

and

skill and

ranged

my

bowmen

could

ride

if we

devise

to

order

in

trow

there

tearing at

little left for

prey.

You

the

Go

to !

am

likelyto assign

Will

altars

future
you

easilyas

compute

me

gods

compromising

to

of

company

flight ere

dead

your
may

priestsof
carcass

desert-falcon

you
Baal
!

!
I

that

stars, forsooth, and

forget the past

can

share

the
for your

to-morrow

of your

gods,

will pass

one

the

the

read

horsemen

multitude

thousand

will be

foretell

Without

Ten

the

set

pets
trum-

our

thousand

such

all

vultures

can

have

in

stars

I have

that

priests,it
how

put

thousand

the

to

have

would
as

to

them

would

Ten

and

sound

And

furlong !

the

no

of battle.

struck

strong

feed

needs

and

so

are

served

many

You

geant.
pa-

better

you

as

thousand

ten

mine

be

carried

; but

god

gods

are

this,

ere

centre

wings

every

there

day's

alone.

must

And

asked

for Baal
be

who

brood.

him, Arbaces

heaven

in

! and

descendants,

swarming

of the

should

he

Nimrod,

his

us

hungry

demons

thousand

Ten

'

details

certain

question relating to

lie had

of wliom

Assarac,

turning fiercelyon

of

spoil I

entertainment

?'
one

jot

of

his

own

dig-

nity,the wily eunuch's

respectfulto
*

Baal

the

"

only

and

honour

^Fill

found
that

them

I pay

sit

far off,it

so

and

of treasure,

they

henceforth

slaves
who

his

king

honour

found

in
one

have

'

wants.

hard

seems

have

of

Sethos,

to

and

reverence

standing

me

make

to

hecause

needlework,

of

their share

had

follow

the

Egypt,

the

God, and

them

hear.

signify,sheep

to

are

not

the theme

on

temples, and, perhaps

reverence

will

worship but

and

from

captivesof
ofier him

our

heaps

Ninus

of those

example

and

"

poor

captives,

neither

silver

gold !'
*

of my
the

we

the

The

wine, jewels,raiment

oxen,

nor

'

in their

if honour

But

him.

and

requiring

son,

willingly,though they keep

long enough
they

the

continued, harping still

chafed

thus

thundered

hastily to

it so,'he

of Ashur

in return.'

reverence

ministered

who

child

the

gives freelyto

cup!'

my

and

yet temperate

was

King.

is himself

father

141

"WINE.

answer

the Great

lord

My

OF

BANQUET

Therefore
lord

frown

the

took

'Prate

they

took

and
their

their orders
not

but

servants

to

king,'repliedAssarac,

of Ninus

veterans, who

they

are

to

"

me!'

the

open

creed
without
was

servants

unabashed

by

derision

of certain

their

leader, as

from

comment

the

the

angry

or

inquiry.

answer;

*I

142

SARCHEDON.

have

of tliem

scores

court

amongst
what

Arbaces,

sending

my

in the

Egyptian captives.

I cannot

hinders
with

you

yonder bound

down

me

handful

strangers,Egyptians

from

drive

all,to worship

his

clear

to

locusts, and

and

tell,

moment,

of spearmen

of its white-robed

temple

this

now,

outer

Baal

in

these

in their

stead.'
The

captain,who

chief

those

added

of custom,

ventured

have

would

certain

to

scruplesof

policy,and

propriety,

but

expostulation;

on

ligion
re-

Assarac

interposed.
*

gods, thy fathers,

The

!' said he, in

he

the

and

Ninyas

in

and

walls

the

where

stars

splendour

even

ing
shin-

were

all the

on

glitteringprofusion of that

so

royal

feast in

man's
the

hand,

blood

as
petrified,

in

outer

long

rose

ridors
cor-

cry,

it arrested

the

jest on

his

lip,

veins, caused

him

to

froze
his

the

the

its

there

that
so
unearthl}^,
pitiful,

each

and

round

sweeping

palace,vibrating through

curdling

sit mute

awed

night
to-

attention, while

the

loftypainted chambers,

and

goblet in

eternal

us

upon

voice, that

revellers into

moment,

same

of the

wild,

look

court.

open
At

and

j'ounger

their

magnificence

so

loud

stern

pointed gravelyupward
down

the

who

if turned

to stone.

Great

The

up his

and

guard;
and

The

Ninus

but Assarac's

for

the

sternlyin

thereof.

by

that

has
It

as

terrible
Pharaoh

was

mon
sum-

beard

was

of

once

warning

in

that

not

one

these

swelled

were

might

cause

his

wail

South,
her

throne
that

on

for there

of

the

his

iron

awful

when

was

not

length
of the

people,

'

there

from

captive that

night,the

spair
de-

because

the

to

and

all its

through

visited

the
"

house

of bereavement

of the

that

on

the

and

soul !'

land

wearied

through by

rise hereafter

was

house

climax
a

where

great
there

dead.'

long-drawn

notes

of

again, the king's first

succeeded
have

phemer,
blas-

innocent

away,

to

thrust

judgments,

Egypt,

the

on

march

such

dungeon'

successive
in

into

sat

spared the

have

passed

and

the

repeated, looking

Egyptian prisoners mourning

punishment

in the

As
and

to

breadth

sin

toilsome

indeed
was

who

this moment

entered

was

his

those

comrade

face,

captivity,stricken

cry

Arbaces

its notes

fathers !' he

visited

Hear

out-worn

of

voice

majestic in

gods, thy

but

was

bade

reproach.
'

and

143

WINE.

King started,and

solemn

more,

OF

BANQUET

gone

by

hard

fresh

with

woe

emotions

outbreak
the

swelled, sank,

of

of horror
wrath.

sorrowing herd

It

of

144

SARCHEDON.

captives,and

perhaps

for

another, but

its

momentary

not

check,

burst

like the

and

of

of

statelystep

and

revellers,ere
of

throne

she

rose

where

sat

the

the

to the

south

and

but

it

was

it passes

the

tenderly in his

ear.

pause

admiring

before

the

court, Assyria's

low

in

by.

East,

verence,
courtlyre-

side

with

her

hand

laid
he

the

mother's

With

bowed

feelingstronger

little in accordance

by

her

of

garden-flowersdoing homage

Ninyas, while

son

with

move

of all the

them

queen's dignity,she

before her ; but

and

as

of the

bent

and

light of

'King, While

Great

goodliest men

of

bed

wind

of her

shoulder

end

lower

board

the
like

love

royal obeisance

warriors, the

from

lines

her

traversed

chosen

to

she made

gold,

of

shining vision

gateway,

through long

slow

in

rising

the

in

so

entrance

of Heaven

forth

of the

shadows

black

the

the

robed

verted
di-

noises

night, this Queen

incomparable beauty, stood

from

by-

loud,

so

all other

Assyria, blazing in jewels,and

her

music,

Queen

back-ground

dark

the

from

mourn

fury,redoubled

announced

grand triumphant swell,

of Semiramis

left to

juncture wholly

it drowned

full,so jubilant,that
its

this

at

was

appeased.

and

been

old lion's

the

that

had

one

than

on

himself
the one,

other, that

of Sarchedon,

and

the

bade

whisper

started,colouringto his temples

He

it

; but

Semiramis

fain have

risen

his

embrace

other

thought of

only reach

lay on

While
came

told

she

quenched

in

by

the

afforded

free
I.

in

that

loiew

not

to be

East, and he

golden sceptre that

old

too

kindled

often

blind

born

trust

in

there

brow,

king's haggard

broke
the

the

up

king

and

face

that

but

to be

to

trayed,
be-

be

another

that

the

broad

communication

which
river

banquet.

waited

them

to their

ran

from

With

queen,

personal attendants, betook

under

her

fall.

final ceremony

though

was

fair white

to her

dwellings,between

VOL.

the

unreasoning pride

peals of music,

their

her

the

sorrow,

heart

of the

conqueror

pressedit

fond

^oeth before

loud

the

would

He

taken

and

innovation

an

loving spark

the

This

such

towards

light in

of the

as

at his feet.

cushion

garment

sat.

old

the fierce

to

by

even

he

his queen,

meet

to

; but

want

rowly
nar-

fixed his

man

of her

uneasilywhere

stirred

gaunt

too

proudly on.

moved

Ninus

each

hem

the

favoured

observe

to

royalty,and

deep humility on

in

could

of

motions

the

dangerous

was

three

or

their

glanced enviously at

warriors

comrade

no

two

"

young

eyes

145

WIXE.

OF

BANQUET

the

to

spective
re-

Euphrates,

tunnelled
one

on

passage
the
L

other.

146

SAr.CHEDOX.

Arbaces

lord,

and

j)aniedthe

stir till

by

Sethos

to

midnight

of the

many

In

his

The

she

queen's

it

him

such

this

sea,

an

escape

from

outer

places
the
cool

to

gates

with

communed

he

the

like

be

the

rose

end,
of

and

he

this

gentle image
give her

dream,

waking

so

At

up

it

was

bled
trou-

girl he really
so

sweet,

risk he

sand
thou-

filled his

veiling a

Must

how

all,like the

them

of the

short, so
any

And

fancies

storm-wrack

imply,

to

fool ?

and

for

written

seemed

shining calmly through

clouds

have

accomplished ?

impossible longings

!*

flyupward

on,

could

What

ear.

stars

deceiving himself

his

still upon

Fly

words

Could

its hour

Could

his

these

amidst

loved.

shaft

upward flightto

brain, but
moon

his

seemed

the

Follow

destiny as

he

was

breath

soft

possible?

wild

to

'

mean

was

of

the

whisper thrillingin

her

Was

or

gathered joyously

perplexed aspiring heart.

own

neck,

would

he

swore

change

night air, while

the

brow^ in

mighty

the

made

banquet, hastening through

his

round

revellers, who

prince.

accom-

loudly applauded

intention

an

ensued, Sarchedon

that

women

side, and

his

younger

their

round

of

group

Ninyas, pushing

queen.

flagon,called
not

her

and

Kalmim

as

their

closely beliind

followed

Sargon

soon

so

come

cruel

in

resolved to

XI.

CHAPTER

LIKE

Deep

he

liis

iu

of

glance
in

palace,

which

the

The

bound.

voice

these

amongst

it

as

misery,

pressed

both

wail

the

piteous,

so

"

without

the

city
of

Groups

ground,
and

so

in

against
vibrations

keen,

so

lair

at

intolerable

of

her

and

throat,

dismal

that

of

last

weeping

some

sense

lay

thrilling,

that

amongst

the

it

stirred

vineyards

walls.

these

prisoners

attitudes

desolation.

hushed

was

long

his

in

jackal

very

hands

the

enhanced

to

space

open

captives

where

save

were,

an

skirts
out-

passing

one

Egyptian

mourning

sufferers,

waking,

thus

and

of

woman,

with

compassion,

Israelitish

the

through

traversing,

and

curiosity

unconscious

vrholly

hurried

Sarchedon

the

of

and

thoughts,

own

^Yatched,

was

LIKE.

TO

sat

expressive
Here

was

or

of

wounded

the

grovelled
utmost

archer,

on

the

sorrow

one

of

clioicest

Pharaoli's

impotent

disabled

that

abandoned
their

to be

different

the

Babylon

to

die.

calm

the

eyes

away

in

above

South, by

father

of her

return, into

to

tender

yery

moane

dear

she

the

land

of

hazard

they had

time

woe

themselves, with

run

be
a

away,

of

of

hope
"Wherever
warrio

embodied

few

Pharaoh's

force

props

heart, the

brawny

from
to

far

tionless,
stark, mo-

of her

while

amongst
to

on

captivity.

seemed

there

maiden,

down,

breastplate,the

to

mourner,

her

on

thoughts

dragged, without

of their

the

little

its

bowed

him

saw

brow

ones,

in

youth,

raised

girlhood, the husband

abandonment

here

them,

head

hut

rude

from

dark-sldnned

surprised by
before

gashed

of those

grieveda

of

beside

with

last

river,where
and

lover

him

leave

tearless, and

but

fully
faith-

cluster of children, the

And

mother,

fixed, dim
the

the

in all

gods

worshipped

lovely sleep

stars.

knees, their tawny

dark

was

javelin

fled and

prattling, laughing, stretching

towards

arms

had

in

bull, falcon,

of goose,

they might

There

the

"

he

the

had

who

captive

earthly shapes

sleeping the

youngest

taken

Nile, that

lie cursed

comrades

locust, whom

by

elder

the

"

liis bonds

gnawing

sliame, while

him

him

stork, and

marksmen,

and

rage

149

LIKE.

TO

LIKE

th

Ethiopians,
auxiliaries,

wept

and

lungs and

e-

vehc-

150

SARCHEDON.

of

mence

unbridled

gesture, so

border

to

as

the

on

grotesque.
somewhat

But

apart, treated,

b}' their Assyrian

the

rest,

handful

with

low

sad

certain
and

their

fuller of
movement

Egyptian.

Their

nostrils

general amongst
none

warlike

bearing,

kin

they

seemed

so

feet

their

plexion
com-

nobler

while
sinuous
in

the

ease

the

der
sleneyes,

peculiar beauty

masters

but

came

stood

Assyrian

they

erect.

the

dog

to

eagle,the patient ox

over

their

Such

race.

as

conquerors

fierywild-bull

laxityof

and

of

fierce

furrow

to their

the

of

the lofty
haughty self-assertion,

the

Presently silence

in

swarthy

remarkable

present

wolf, the ossifrageto the

of the

lacked

partook

the

to the

dark

high features, kindling

of the
to

less

each

with

marked

sufferers,and

limb,

their

of the

showed

far

were

of attitude

expressive;

Though

grace.

than

only to

and

gentle,was

and

fellow^

pliancy of

curved

and

grave

dignity

and

of stature

and

rigour

decency

to

forcible

were

hair, they

than

and

tones

demeanour,

beard

attention

seem,

selves,
disposed them-

prisoners had

scrupulous

other, their

of

less

and
bearing. Conversing little,

and

their

with

conquerors

it would

as

of the

fell.

them,

and

fetters,one
Then

he

taking

in

vantage
ad-

and

all

who

seemed

rose

LIKE

eldest

and

TO

gravest spoke

151

LIKE.

words

few

voice, to wliicli tlie others

responding
breasts.

their

divested

raised,

flitted

through

the

Sarchedon'

that

left

he

for the
her

The

moon

enough
every

he

step

sword.

readily a path
should

adjoining
herself

own

of

priest of

the

circle ;

sentiment

his

on

in each

curiosity,save

or

should

altar

nor

round

filled with

that

thus

sacrifice

no

out,

robe

towards

low

guided

it

the

in
him

on

familiar

strange he

that

led

have

had

the

palace

should

his

beaming

darkness

interest

of it been

Was

in

to

on

goal, longing

bring

him

face

to

loved.
was

to have

white

sped

moment

time

impressed

trust

was

for

room

no

subject,and

face with

he

heart

their

on

yet

reverence

love, and
The

but

only

and

awe

eyes.

worshipper's
Baal

form

drink-offeringpoured

nor

face, courage,

every

sunk

marvelled,

outward

lemn
so-

attentively,

religious ceremonial,

and

only deep

"

one

be

could

of all pomp

blood,

and

motions,

if this

mind,

listened
heads

loud

Sarchedon, hastening past, had

observe

of

intervals,with

at

iu

have

to

access

of

been

the
to

sky, yet
his way,
as

the

should

the

Arbaces

had

even

handle
have

home

found

that

restless,unable

not

of his

of Ishtar
roof of

light

gave

so

that

dwelling
the
to

girl
sleep,

152

BAPvCHEDOX.

and

with

fevered

parapet

the

under

cushions

not

was

simple enough
by

rich

toned

was

scorched
while

house

voice

and

through

Sarchedon

sweeter

in

heart

pass'd AA-itlioutthe city-gate,

I liuger'dby the way
;
her mate,
to
The
bending
pahu was

"

The

The

shadows

the

to the

on

and
lihe to lilie,

cedar
And

the

I to

on

the

to

wedded

are

And

The

meet

the river

waves

The

And

to

stream

say,

quiver,

wild-bird

the

And
The

to the

arrow

And

her

I heard

thus

liver.
sea.
on

the

tree

the

lea

each

beach,

to

each.

thee.

the

moimtain,

bramble

willow

in the

brake

b}'the fountam,
the lake ;
And
the lilyon
The
sei-pent coilingin its laii*,
The
eagle soaring fi-ee,
Draw
kin to kin, and
pair to pah,
The

And

I to thee.

and

imagery

And

it

passionate

East.
'

that

girl'sbeing,

fanciful

the

chant,

thrilled

vrhich

his

forth

pleading conveyed through

the

and

fibre of the young

poured

by the

seemed

reason

measured

"

every

air

low

suppressed

and

and

carpets

night

the

richer

"

lier

explained in

sweet

cool

the

strange

as

down

spread

to

in

sky

father's

of her

No, it

desire

of

For

every tilingcreated
of earth
In the bounds

Hath

The

Trind
The

hugs

And

By night
Do

palm
I

And

The

veil

vi-as

rather

vras

her

'

in

spoken,

and

queen

and

yet

ghost,
her

greeting that
both

hands

lover.
of my

moment

of her

caresses

hope,

to

another

lips parted
than

like

him

on

In

murmured,

thought

not

I kneic

heart!

find

I should

thinks

girl'smodesty

proud.
under

But

roof

returned
a

"

could

not

is

war

safe.

happy day.'

shame

no

over

to veil with

of which

truth

the

the

come,' she whispered,

would

you

falsehood

such

rose

here.'

you

has

she

to the

'Ishtar,' he

for

me

parapet.

breathed

scarcelydared

?"

old tale to teU.'

sweet

abandoned

were

giief.

and

was

fond

the

up,

love

ceased,

behind

thee.

day, in joy

and

thou

barley-sheaf,

the

I love

bending to her mate,

markd
her meaning well ;
passd within the city-gate,

The

from

the bee

invites

rose

sickle

The

sky.

and

longing to be mated,
die.
must
or
coui^le,
of heaven
beguiles the leaf,

such

It must

"V^'lien he

lOtS

LIKE.

TO

LIKE

sleep
"

"

my

Sarchedon

she

I could
own

is
not

dear

this

has

genuous
in-

reallj*
rest

father
been

154

SARCHEDON.

It

the

was

and

name,

from

her

my

with

and
'A

land

She

had

his

jealousyof

him

and

eyes,
his

own

she

honey

damsel/

'Ishtar,' and
loved

they

Sar-

each

other
of their

comely

"

Sarchedon,
and

loved.

Yery

triumph

she

I value

the

shredding

for
yon

is

she

of all

of the

not
men

Great

the

quite
vanity
far,

sweeter

excite
her

was

replied:

herbs

I tell

in it

in

seem

very

Queen.'

even

lord,

young

would

the

smile,

giftwhen

surely

must

he

of

"

goodly j-outh,our

fair he

have

could

tender

glance, while
how

she

prince, and,

that

dispute the beauty

could
of

ment
happj' mo-

feet ?'

woman,

of

the

in

love-gifthurled

the

saw

bitterly;

maiden

such

was

to your

are

is he

it

sense

her

rather

fairest

avowal

handmaidens

mother?

the

jon

judge

may

Y^et

now.

by his

like

noble

repeated,

homage

land

soft and
You

been

double

pride in

the

he

Think

not

the

you

knew

prince'schariot

gratifiedby

but

Ishtar, when

very

to be

more

victory for
!

suppressed

of

him

warmth, the stormy passion

day!'

of

for me,
our

called

climate.

of Shinar

from

no

they

rich

day

was

because

happy

and

It

handmaiden,'

all the

race

slie had

endearing syllablesdropped

lips.

chedon,'

the

lord's

first time

your

picture
be

loath

of
to

156

SARCHEDON.

like

Arbaccs
herd

asked,
*

avouIcI not
of camels

after

or

for

away

drove

loves

of

treasure,

captives?'

dearly,'she

me

know

he

fears

to lose

me;

were

to

vanish

from

his

would

jou

lie

pause.

father

My

barter

wish

never

to

for he

has

side,

like

out

of

come

answered.
often

'

said, if

my

mother, he

his

war-chariot

alive.*
'

She

v;as

abstractedly
;
see, I have

have

but
The

daughter

bent
*

loath

She

have

in

olden

was

built.

beauty
Great

and

the

beauty

answered.

later

time,
I

only

my

Queen,

their

before

father's

that

of

the
her

"

the

great

I would

Arbaces

is

to think.

that

the

for the

plague
tower

I had

fame, and

the

bestow

it all

might

head.

priestessof Baal,

thrones

the

surely

girl who

what

not

believe

days, since

know

men

not

care

'But

I know

child

from

to

shook

I cannot

god.

down

in these
the

!' she

mortal

to

all,and yet

him, and

been

to the

fatal

stars, he thought, had

questioned,and

come

women

of the

is

stars,'said Sarchedon

!'

celestial

so

say

it

world

fondly over

to be

espoused
have

her

They

may

love

learned

in the

transmitted
now

their

'

You

you

of the

daughter

my

love

of

of waters
of Belus

mother's

wealth
on

stars

the

of the
man

LIIIE

would

You

love.

while

repute;

go

and

rule

to

the

hair,'was
Well

the

fair horse

to

be

the

to ask

and

for your
rode

you

meanest

him

the

"

they

were

to

face

again !'

lustrous
such

If

his

crossed

favour
secure

his

remove

Ishtar,

of the

to

Then

I will

his

arm

of her
ask

gone

round

you

down!'
that

the parapet, like the

the

she
too

the
of

spur

could

open

what

flash
a

still

and

real

mond
dia-

her

fatal

him

on

thwart

late,from
the

and

slaves, than

and

but

at

; better

queen

ray

Semiramis

ere

was

water

dazzlingcareer
of the

it did

goat's-

camels,

your

this, but

queen's displeasure,and

day has

over

brain,

it

admiration
'

of

happiness
ere

the

"

as

thought

of

far draw

of your

beauty

love

father,'

happy morning

lowest

glitterof tinsel, compared

?

by

and

!'

be loath to

tent

herds,

that

liigh

palace of gold ?'

in

'better

answer;

of your

would

you

his in

Yanity, pride,ambition
to

of

happy

very

you

Sarchedon

serve

3'our kind

see

never

him

of Palms

the

very,

warrior,

young

over

Better

'

be

Ninj-as sent

-whisperedthe

and

ricli,Sarchedon,

I should

if

Then,

be

157

LIKE.

TO

the

to

it, to

sphere
gerous
dan-

more

son.

of your

exclaimed

father

before

Sarchedon,

lithe slender

other
an-

ing
steal-

figure,leaning

palm-treebending

to meet

158

SARCHEDON.

her

'

mate.

below

of camels

score

of the

suit

of

truest

men

Ishtar

in return."
So

hath

camels,

that

the smile

daughter

The

heart

where

her

needs

follow, and

she

And

of

great sob
shame,
it

on

the

but

amongst

my

who

is

lavish

so

of armour,

of

what

and

and

sheep

shall

has

of

in her

of

honest
on

yours

tell

rushing

must

her

was

that

Ishtar

!'

!' repeatedthe

to

It

him,

girl,with

womanly happiness, tempered by

blood

have

answered

forth, thither

she will be mine

will be

face.

he

will

Arbaces

gone

love,could

Ishtar's

while

eyes,

girl'sheart,

young

face, while

maiden
she

hid

lover's breast.

her
Fast

counted

from

me

beamed

reflected in Sarchedon's
'

summon

depths

the

happy and triumphant

risen

seek

*'they

"

my

?'
from

Only

tain
cap-

battle, and

of

Arbaces

skilled in choice

then

I say

to him

forth

so

the

ifperadventure his daughter'sheart

to know

gone

to

court

sheep, with
brought

ever

out

the

into

'

father will

my

maidens,

say

send

hundred

that

armour

shall

young

and

unwounded

host

will

To-morrow

as

her
score

heart
of

call of servants, and

was

beating,

pulsationsere
flash of torches

it

had

tramp
in the

of

scarce

horses,

court

be-

the

about
No
his

Great

had

daughter

embrace

of

the

at

voice

familiar

fond

his

the

from

dismounted

he

the

than

asking loudly for

shadow

his

from

duties

Eang.

sooner

palace

of Arbaces

tlie return

low, announced

159

LIKE.

TO

LIKE

and

of

porch

heard,

was

gliding

like

Sarchedon,

she

during

which

she

had

was

gone.
Yet

brow

in that

even

do

him

saw

Perhaps
added

such

know

she

the

to

will

and

if it

"

time

mean

conscious
as

though

about

beloved

him

and

trample

future
it

came.

evil
The

she

the

his

would

it under
it was,

were

"

!'

queen

he

You

jewel, and

hand

not

on

it

tear

in the

foot, but
Sarchedon

strange depression,of vague

some

ere

where

was

hour.

same

that

comes

by

tenderness

at the

one,

whether

lea^-ingit
of

there

not

curiosity,when

of escape

whence

doubtful

his neck

covered
dis-

women

as

was

with
stealthilyto depai-t,

amulet,

from

act

given you

Turning
the

it

of female

of female

in the

then

was

knew,

that

things,

stimulant

me

and

wore,

impulse

To-morrow,
tell

bosom,

her

last.

an

whispered, even
'

he

amulet

the

when

his

pressed against

was

only

brief moment

felt

misgivings,

casting its

shadow

air felt heavy, the

night

160

SARCHEDON.

darker, tlie

was

world

different

his'home, and

towards

by

practiceof

the

Ishtar

first to last.

Sethos,

seated

reckless,
for the
*

the

at

are

deer

of

bow

'

My

uncertain

think

What

instant.

he

light

was

in returning

was

still

Ninyas

more

beautiful,

more

to

you

rose

and

'

the

he

as

Is she

prince,

with

hand

followed

you

thicket

the

where

worth

the

lies

the

the

bending

?'
lord

of Arbaces,

The

steps

shoulder,

bravely

had

shaft,'answered

chariot

he

as

with

wine, and

trusty hunter,' laughed

favourite's

hound

good

found

with

the

excess.

You

his

he

strangely

interview

haste

good

flushed

impetuous,

steadjdng his
on

such

banquet,

more

his

ened
quick-

heard

nor

of foot than

queen's palace,that

the

to

nimble

heart, made

and

of hand

less

no

been

streets

of his,

form

watched

had

who

one

silent

have

the

saw

footstepsof
from

the

senses

must

war,

neither

he

blunted, that

keen

those

It seemed

dim.

passed along

he

as

become

had

stars

who

passed

her with

alreadywounded
the

cup-bearer.

flung
beneath

him
her

intelligenceseemed

the
in

our

to

'

It is the

posy

random

daughter

of flowers

as

his

triumph.'
sober

Ninyas

on

the

LIKE

'And
said
the
won

it

is Sarchedon

he, pondering.

sport grows

by

YOL.

him

I.

TO

who

'

By

to earnest
can

161

LIKE.

-^aIio contends
the
now,

brows

and

strike first !'

the

with

of

me,'

Ashtaroth,

prizewill

bo

CHAPTER

Hastening

THE

GODS

from

the

with

interview
to

the

observe

of

belonged.

in

what

of

identifying the

his

Sethos,

the

on

and

prisoner,

of
have

the

Great

overheard

w^ould

indeed

might

have

have

the

captive

been

marvelled
in

his

occupatio
pre-

to whom

whose

wits

no

difficulty

in

his

own

between

common

Assyrian god,
even

bourhood
neigh-

amongst

and

this

the

tives
cap-

spear.

Could

conversation,

his

curiosity

sharpened, but

any

ideas

King's
their

person

contrary,

exist

could
of

the

in

service, had

master's

servant

priest

failed

not

exiles, though

Israelitish

their

liis stolen

had

Sarchedon

robe

interests

haughty

fettered

he

queen's palace towards

recognising Assarac,

mind
the

at

more

were

HEATHEN.

THE

Ishtar,

forbade
it

OF

white

the

XII.

bow

prcviousl}^conceived

and

regarding

superna-

he

164

SAKCHEDON.

with

from

contempt.

mild

warily and

liim

Scanning

starlight,Assarac

nation

of

piercing
denoted

of

marked

His

and

sage

was

and

doubtful,

Israelite's
the

looks

'You

who
shall

Therefore
you

an

hath
your

always

the eunuch's

curiosity,

it

of

riority
supe-

glorifiedthe

that
calm

quiet

majesty

like

mountain.

he, 'and

pour

neither

cornland

harvest

and

your

wine

out

vineyard.

nor

grapes

return

hundredfold.'
will

*Baal

other.

on

to

ofier bread,' said

him

unto

an

mind.

of eager

confidence

face, imparting
sunset

portioned
well-pro-

inferred

the

expression

the

contented

light of

aspect

scornful, altogether suspicious

half

dissatisfied,with
and

his

between

contrast

strange

amongst

activitynot

qualitiesof

nobler

shiftingrestless glances,his
half

and

lofty

features, dark

shapely limbs,

physical strength
the

chief

counsellor, while
its

the

venerable

and

beard,

ample

accompanying
There

admire

bondsmen.

figure,with
amount

but

not

of this

eyes,
the

could

dubious

the

closelyin

personal dignity

and

bearing

far removed

condescending pity not

and

'

Shall

thirst,while

not

suff'er

I, then,

I have

to

me

see

enough

my
and

want,'
brother
to

spare

replied the
hunger
?

Are

and
you

THE

of

not

our

shook
'

Our

'

and

the

the

same

Do

not

your

not

we

God

?'

to

the

pressors
opof

come

stars, and

and

as

efforts

He

in those

ear,

forms

frame,
shall
How

and
you

the

majesty

frank
his

the

of the

potent
Omni-

but

he

speech

his

fellows

express
3'ou

of man,
the

impart

can

that

the

to do

battle.
the

mere

spiritof worship

with

have

putant
dis-

adversary's premises

'symbols;

mind

of

shall

unworthy

of
liberality

field in which

answered,

see

your

winged monsters,
thousand

of that inner

can

the

with

he

worship,

your

the

the

the

vent, like

find

senses.

with

it were,

Azael, standing

!'

admitting

in

Symbols,'

outward

all

Infinite

smiled

who
narrows,

and

degrade

you

the

Assarac

of

son

he

captivity,protest against

temples

tree, and

to which

forms

the

of my

otherwise,' said

us

drink-offerings,
your

sacred

your

taught

I, Sadoc

honds

and

gashes

fire?

enemies

have

idols, your

How

Are

pointed upward

fathers

your

to

165

HEATHEN.

his head.

in

but

THE

worship

here

must

kindred'?

Israelite

solemnly

and

ancient

lineage and
The

OF

race

our

one

GODS

his

he

hear

can

thoughts only

tongue

skill to

principle of

comprehend

the

through

eye,
his

which

the

has

learned

comprehend.
heat

but

majesty

by
of

166

SAKCHEDOX.

light but through

nobler
than

ideal

of

in those

sun

spirits,gods,
and

serene

of their

weary

the

endless

How

can

and

departed

heroes

who

nevet*

silent

witnesses

vratches

in

form

you

the

unfathomable

night ?'
So

'

send

you

thousand

labourers

to the

replied Sadoc, pointing scornfullyat

the

on

palace wall,

granite from
out
or

sky

defiance

winged

like

at

fall down

and

is lower

than

never

and

hewn
or

sea

qualitiesin direct
to

reverence

limbed

man,

truthful

prince'sdoorway,
worship before
the

the

rend

in earth

profess
a

tures
sculp-

"

like

grotesque, impossible, imposing

giganticsize

them

seen

like

the

till they have

and

you

bird, headed

its

it up

rear

nature

monster,

only from

was

of make

that

to

"

as

creature

"

bid

and

unyielding sides

such

creature

bull

its

'

tain,'
moun-

lowest

the

of the

and

outline.
call

hoofs
brutes

on

You

of that
in

the

to

men

which

system

of creation!'
*

Are

Assarac
'

among

people ?' asked

your

quicldy.

Every

head

household,' was
mysteries
and

priest

3^ou

for

of
the

clear

family

priest of

dignifiedreply.

worship
as

is the

the

sublime

as

light of day.'

'

There

the

his
need

eternal

own

no

vens,
hea-

THE

'

Yet

GODS

surely you

the

those

truths

initiated

know

argued

Assarac.

speaks

to the

than
forcibly
moved
with

actions

and

pass.

Not

when

he

walks

with

hand.

stronger

the

He

overpowering
of the

and

forces

world

indomitable, the

unmoved
ashes

the

over

of

ubiquity of

for

the

It is

no

true

ruins

of

sea,

camels

like

labourers,

but

the

for

locusts

indeed
of

foretold

to

that

never

ever

himself

great
to

come

host

King's
of

but,

granite,

his weapon

his

made

in

frame

mighty
race

querors
con-

majestic face,

empire

an

that

representationof

toil, sldll, and

he

; in those

dominion

gash

more

calm

spiritof victorymarching

peasant'shearth

the

swarming

that

in

that

that

have

that

within

shakes
in

sees

far

blocks

and

prouder step

scorn

you

nation

should

carven

we

value,'

and

in the Great
these

on

howl

that

events

spearman

looks

from

altar, while

an

mighty

Assyrian

leap and

to

which

figurewhich

very

ble
tangi-

real

their

at

accept

out
with-

more

shrine

inner

promptings

before

knives

of the

of the

all the

multitude

the

stronger and

That

senses

167

HEATHEN.

move

and
'

prophet

cannot

influences

extraneous

than

THE

OF

mere

the

unfurled

desert,
the
nature

and

spiritwhich

wings,
ships

horsemen

fertile
evoked

sufferings of

the

over

command

can

overrun

as

plain.
by

the

countless

dominates

and

168

SARCHEDON.

subdues
Where
not

for its

nature

is the

here, in

type of godlike dominion

this

intellect,and

few

of

impersonation

audacity combined

Sadoc

pointed

to

paces

off with

and

aggrandisement

own

found, if

conquest: strength,

?'
child

Egyptian

an

to be

fame.

wild-flower

grasped

sleeping

its little

in

hand.
Is there

the

skill

that

delight of
comfort

less

of the

godlike power,' said he,

put together leaf

that

infant, who

poor

and

blossom

has

joy

Assarac

pondered.

'There

must

be

gods,' he

there

replied,'as

glory. Dagon

dominion

and

the

on

mountain,

Ashur,

circle

nor

?'

stars, differingin magnitude and

to

in

for the

other

no

Merodach

raging

and

that

yields
the

before

Anu

waters,

even

his

to

battle

monarch

irresistible
of

sentence

in

Abitur
is
of

with

hath

in

the

yet subject

the

mighty

superior, and

Nisroch

are

the

bows

eagle's

head.'
'

he

And

not

wings
Whence

and

Nisroch,' continued

your
also

and

master

flies to the

comes

he ?

his feathered

at

whose

uttermost

Who

shoulders

gave
?

the

Israelite;'hath

word

he

parts
him
If he

spreads

of the

his
is

his

desert

eagle'shead
substantial,

THE

be

lie must
Tvbo
and

what

shall he

You

speak

'

Baal,

and

and

us,

brain

pored

below.

bring

the

to

the

of

shall

it is who

He

his

beneath

world

Eastern

men

\slio

indeed.

of Shinar

the

rules

government

-wisely

whole

above

tower

which

mystery

many

scrolls till his

star-wi-itten

land

the

of the

of

priest

watched

has

summit

it

speak
for

who

one

that

learn

god

to

those

apply

You

make

shall

and

Shinar,

of

replied the

reason/

the

on

reeled, to

heavens,

with

from

land

for the

god

passed away,

be has

when

called ?'

be

speak

you

long night

another

1G9

HEATHEN.

THE

and

perishable;

make

will

OF

GODS

feet.'

speak

*I

not

Sadoc.

there

when

'

will

through

all the

the

vrhole

over

season,

but

of

gods

The

time

be

one

earth, as
heaven.

no

less

made
must

surely come

ere

the

true

is

Clouds
doth

of

worship
there

that

sun

one

may

creation

God
shines

obscure

and

wered
ans-

long

in its warmth

it exist

splendour, giving vitalityto

hands,'

men's

by

it for

and

light

to

day.'
*

one

When

there

is but

dominion,' argued

temple

vri]l then

one

worship,there

Assarac.

become

the

'

The

will be but

altar and

judgment

-will be
throne, while the high-priest

the true

seat

the
and

monarch

170

SARCHEDON.

ruler

and
here
a

the

in

friend.

in

god.

and

while

in

my

my

worship.

to

the

me

kind

behold

to

the

confines

march

of

dreams

triumph,

armies
were

gods

judgment
And

who

are

us

even

on

when

also

am

paramount

by

founded

over

such

worth

our

to the

the

I, Assarac
of

father

Southern

gates
the

as

their

waving

victoryand
all the

of

on

of Memphis,

priest,had
guided

the

fire-worshipper's

immortality,all the starry thrones

of luminous

of the

the

motion

but

of Merodach

and
that

conscious

dignity

else have

mountains

standards

of Armenia

while
in

the

the

being alienated,from

empire

an

blood

own

is the

What

leap

to

of warriors, and

line

country

the Bactrian

from

of life.

extend

sea,

set

of my

severed,without

To

Nimrod

from

loins

extravagances

priest of Baal,

descended

interest

are

greatness

object and
I, who

am

mistakes

their

below

and

; but

inspiration of

Such

streams.

nature,

who

their

gird

may

crimson

foreign to

Assyrian

the

found

behold

you

votary

for

frenzy

as

gesticulate,shedding

are

an

hot-brained

no

subordinates

My
run

the

am

have

captivityyou

priest of Baal,

intoxicated

own

and

am

of your

for indeed

brother;

Listen, my

house

truth

his

all.

over

your

supposed

to

be

looking

down

in

now.'
wishes

have

been

said
fulfilled,'

172

SAECHEDON.

profess,through

her

the

been

have

pride,

Or

this

from

colossal

buildings, causing

blossom

like the

great deep

know

You

have

'

nor

but

stripe to
under

the

The

great
of

and

who

and
eye

hunger
that

raised

but

but

for

by

constitute

never

to

of

our

the

monster

magic
the

sleeps,the
urge,

of the

will ?'

Sadoc,

falls
our

of

and

for

of

the

ever

tures
struc-

South

"

blood, sweat,

spells,under

smite, and

mand
com-

task-masters,

idols

hand

bread.

the

at

shapeless

cruel

toil

must

huge

of which

or

groan

Israelite

than

speak,

you

spared

and

to

oppressors,

of which

The

mightier

gigantic

reared

are

at their

surely forget his people

not

bonds

rearing

waters

very

ever

rises

its

we,

"

scanty morsel

his

for

is

the

arts

hath

indeed

who

one

the

"

they

river

will

their

that

scourge

took

of desert

tracts

hand

iron

single captive.

who

nation,' answered

forbidden

result

no

behests

overflow

our

felt the

you

with

and

not

practisethe

who

in

subside

to

all

with

that

art

your

spellsthat compel

wide

bidding

rose,

the

their

out

that

people

lost, the

work

hundreds

Egypt,

land

very

present inhabitants, have

gigantic spiritsto

of

pupil

and

it true

is

teachers, and

the

but

is

them

with

dynasties

generations.

of successive
nation

of

scores

that

the
is

fierce
never

destroy.

Yet

THE

when

fathers

our

there

found

they

wisely

Pharaoh

to

in the

degradation of

His
bristle

with

flashes

of

Israelite

races

and

'You
with

impersonation
serpent, the
choose

the

gods

but

the

the

of

lotus, the

bud,

hang

our

animals,

the

It

to

such

in

was

the

on

that

of

or

the

likeness
of

features

repliedAssarac,
whom

from
at

us,

than

fir-cone, or

the

reproductive

blade

in

with

loathsome

nobler

cat !

beetle

the
least

of the

reptiles,and

the
If

to

in

as

seed, at

carvings

goose,

power

dormant,
the

least,

the

claim

we

the

locust, and

when

temples
most

of Ximrod,'

worship

our

always existing even

in the

sunk

seemed

that the

noted

are

idolatry.'

beard

spoke.

taught

stork, the

idea

an

brutal

fathers

have

descent

common

be

they

themselves

are

very

hated

are

Assyrian.

scorn

sneer

he

they

excitement

to

vras

'

his

while

anger,

indignation or

of kindred

who

vile and

blazed, and

eye

degraded prisoners,

are

now

only

themselves

truth, where

in

to those
a

second

found

they
where

Egypt

people, reigning

they

now

despised, masters,
slaves

into

famine

nation, and

allies

and

! And

not

own

throne

slaves

of their

where

guests
friends

and

one

the

on

honoured

by

prosperous

over

driven

were

173

HEATHEN.

THE

OF

GODS

vey
con-

nature,
flower
we

humblest
the

we

mean-

do

174

SARCHEDON.

utensils

est

tlie

surely

of all

who
Our

low

will

descendants
for

the

in

ever

morsel

of his

of

lash

leaders ; there

sword,

nor

wives

our

inarch

out

brick

for

The
a

the

of

this

the

and

gave

our

the

remain

bitter

the

the

arms

nor

dwellings,
are

to

we

\sith

of peace,
?

lineal

And

yet, I

one,

would

wilderness

of straw, bake
that

in

under

our

I, for

"

the

!'

to

are

How

hands

our

in

in

garb

structures

of race,

Abraham,

die

cruel

the

we,

neither

in the

armful

peculiardestiny,in

sons

have

we

to

come

basest

dust

of blood

spear.

useless

pride

servant,

tears

in

but

Sadoc,

that

shield, nor

another

sorrows

be

harness

children

into

us,' said

proven

no

tured
sculp-

humbled,

bondage, eating

But

to
fearlessly

gather

our

it may

than

to

of

enemies

our

and

that

pray

is

nor

from

out

go

free

slavery,weeping

task-master's

have

people

favoured

house

the

practised by the

It cannot

tone.

principle which
before

7ce

surely

baser, I grant

represents ;

whom

grinding your

God

mournful

it

is that

enemy

is

the

kneel

to

god

worship

Egj'ptian, the
master

the

than

image

is

It

than

stars

light, baser

them

gives

life !

daily

our

adore

to

you,

of

rather
more

one

only

bear

ness
wit-

shame.'
intense

all ages

an

to the

words

consciousness
inheritance
of Sadoc

of

of the
a

truth

with

and

bitterness, marked

the

scheming priestof
'Hands

toiled

behalf.

own

can

surely

Courage

that

of

are

Babylon,

night

I will

nay,

fear

"

the
as

to

in

take

his

indeed

to the

great city,our

warhke

their

kinsmen

as

AssjTians

Egyptian
the
as

desert
locusts

resolve

yoke, they
from
in

the
west

trumpets

sounding

the

King

Great

!'

oppressor,
for

once

will

see

trampling
wind
far

"

and

they
wide

ing
lodg-

3-ou

out
with-

scruples
shall

with

turn
re-

as

gift

the

on

ites
Israel-

when

the

the

dren
chil-

and

off the

all to

throw

cloud

rising out

of

here, in the

friends ; that

and

oppressed rises against the

of Terah

look

This

honour,

that

tell them

will

tives
cap-

and

you

father

of his

no

any

safetyand

in

dwelling

You

found

and

"

yours

Eg}-pt.

entertain

of Baal

people

be

be

food

for your

you

abode

ovm

hand.

order

in

long

and

shall

been

not, they shall

entering the

returns

have

you

in

fail at the

not

You

You

blow

borne

has

revenge.

lineage.

as

temple, if

to your
son

and

blood

our

in
very

and

of liberation

moment

strike

privationwill

sufferingand

of

years

by

skilfullyfor their

so

'

task-masters,' said he,

their

slightsatisfaction

no

Baal.

have

that

175

HEATHEN.

THE

OF

GODS

THE

of

horses, countless

will hear
from

the

thousand
hosts

of

176

SARCHEDON.

Israelite's

The

'It

leads

of

our

must

us

and

his

glowed,

cheek

solemnly,

answered

he

but

sparkled

eye

be

forth

captivity.'

into

mightier
the

wilderness

king

than

out

yours,
of

the

who

house

CH^lPTEPt

xin.

MOTHER

XoT

the

bers

in

his

least sumptuous
the

the

since

he

had

could

walk

alone

in

from

his

somewhat

the

fieryold

had

manly
w^arfare
VOL.

been

than

trained

exercises
on

I.

the

the

lived

those

warrior

his

rather

and

break

out

queen's

ing
exact-

ances
observ-

spirit,

in

words

swordsman's

dignity.

the

nificence,
mag-

scale,

father's

of the

monarch's
under

and

ceremonious

to

ever

less extended

Iiing's court,

chafed

gestures savouring

impatience
he

Great

attendants

which

causing
and

of the

splendour

had

from

Here,

son.

princelystate
on

cliam-

devoted,

of her

servants, he

own

imitating,though
the

been

accommodation

his

by

of lialls and

range

queen's palace

boyhood, to

surrounded

SON.

AND

Here

own

too

eye

iu

befittinghis rank, practising mimic

wide

terraces

of the

royal dwelling,
N

178

SARCHEDON.

and

its

through
heart

heen

him

and

shake

her

the

her

ing
influence, teachall his

for

tions
occupa-

ascendancy

daily custom
he

was

under

ohtainingan

which

it

as

monarch

alone

thus

at the

rendered

attempted

never

feast,valorous

unscrupulous

in

his

mother's

child, who,
looked

tear-stained

with

alone
her

knee

equal confidence,a

to

pearls worth
It

heavy

not

was

slumbers
of

heart, his

less
fray,reck-

with

and

petulant, had
and

ment,
encourage-

hruised

have

was

lovingwayward

same

succour

every

he

moment,

the

would
hunch

the

of
gratification

wilful

for

face, and

in

of the

though

to

run

the

presence

to her

had

in

whim

jmssing desire, every

of

in

it off.

and

earnest

"wilderness

immediate

natural, that

Arrogant

ever

future

her

on

mind,

young
and

easy

yet

the

amusements,

his

over

dangerous

policy of Semiramis,

within

depend

to

and

so

the

pleasure,to keep
eye

in

swarming ciij.

It had

own

lion

spacious paradise, a

of the

her

the

hunting

even

skin
of

hegged

of grapes

and

or

her,

string

king's ransom.

strange then, that, waking

after the

some

first wish

banquet,

unfulfilled
was

for

desire

his

with

from

mother's

pression
im-

vague

burning

his

at

his

presence.

180

SARCHEDOX.

triumph yesterday so
of Eshcol
left

kst
heart

his

I wish

'

him

I had

never

petulantly.
who

It would

'

said

queen,

with

the

'

more

rattle

of

quiver

and

gallop amongst

vras

pain

no

learn

the

king

Valour
of

Avay

of Brass

pleasures it

not

the

roll of

the

spearmen.
I sent

courage

is indeed
it such

Is

shield

in

armed

wretches

chariot

Think
down

under

have

the

leap to

chariot, wheeling

you

war,

fare
war-

made

it

you

yonder

the

to

of my

eye

yourselfa

name

content.'

am

computing

to

son,' she

my

heart

your

child,'

forth

be

not

to

!'

father's

going

would

in

contained

like your

!' repeatedNinyas.

fame, which
it.

Gates

forborne

you

Ninyas

the

when

But

for valour, and

*

me

!' answered

from

did

first lesson

your

lord

to

?'

in his hand

You

tenderly,

he

rotted

to have

host.

of valour

had

been

'

got

have

Eg}^')t,in

reins

all the

not

the

added

at

and

Babylon

the

chariot

my

there

he

of

high repute

gone

has

Or

and

Nile

wine

new

daughters

the

the

the

from

I wish

'

turned

leave

fame

with

brought

and

rough

so

among

for the

exchange
has

night

wearisome

and

long

and

of small

great
of

iron

flying for

'

have

Men

strange

portioning
value

deed

to

when
be

through
their

out

you

driven
ranks

lives ?

the
have

under
of

saw

halfone

of

and

cast

an

born
an

the

his

him

he

as

be

later, I would

hour

and

all the

the

roughest

of the

fame
wine

indeed

my

part ;

and

welcome

my

share

of

to

all the
The

women

been

she

have

been
Xot

hand.

she

of

mighty

line

was

one

who, being

of

skin.

and

of
love

it is

thirst, long

she

only home,
Ninus,

even

have

Assyria, so
founded

by

of her
of the

own

the

spear

with

his

flaunted

so

pushed

the

Nimrod

blood,
and

the
her

the

seem,

which

least inclined

thought,

stronger

it would

opinions,in

the

was

man,

fame, should

banners

here

her

cup

of war.'

confession

earth

on

will have

smiled, well pleased, as

queen

Had

for

troubles

this frank

with

valour

sieges,heat, privation,night-watches,

marches, weary
and

for

whosoever

if

day,

very

all the

to

to be

well

That

army

hunger

haste

thought,

were

burst

ever

pleasure,for

it

scarce

hot
I

bartered

Assyrian

that

in

; and

mighty,

have

Arbaces

by

of spears

Yalour

king's son.

in his limbs

But

drove

accounted

vineyard,when

arrows

bod}'.

rearguard

would

man

in

ground

Nile, having three

on

eye
up

his

through

spear

bring
a

the

passed

we

stand

bowmen

our

181

SOX.

AND

MOTHER

to

saddle

insatiable
far

and

very

nobler

of her
desire

wide

conquests
Great.

share.
should

out

never

of all

the

of the

And

3'et

counterpart,
sex,

could

sit

182

honours,

of you

son,

my

"

though

could
were

the

but

acknowledge

the

often

taking

of

outrao-es

to

Arbaces, I say,

"

the
that

of the

king's
the

on

line

disciplineof

he

that

interests

by assault, with

towns

man

obliged

added, the example of

injurious to

king

the

and

was

on

eye

descendant

he

in camp,

more

and

not

king's

evil

an

worthy

though
was

with

look

to

himself

the

to

already

lord

my

ill at ease,

are

you

you

judicious leader

Arbaces

devoted

so

seems

as

fight.

in

of valour

admit,

tality
immor-

have

'

she,

Even

high dignity.

to

spoken

has

said

young,'

so

one

attained

the

pleasures to

hero.

For

'

like
war-

unworthy preference of

his

material

and

to scoff at

youth

of his

confess

to

inglorious ease
of

flush

in the

down

calmly

you

SABCHEDOX.

cessor,
suc-

field

of Ashur

one

prince

armies

than

all the

license

storm.'

There
lion's

cub

to his

brow, while

'

to

Arbaces

bring

the

dared

'

He

must

Assyrian

flash

father's
his

to

eye,

the

to

speak thus

his

feet, and

of

me

host.'

bold

the

scowl

man,

this

/' he

grasping

chief

claimed,
ex-

ively
instinct-

the

wall.

captain

of the

gilded javelin standing against

be

in

nature

listened.

he

springing to
at

of his

enough

was

MOTHER

He

he

since

beware

will

have

And

yet,'he

turning
is

no

in

not

gladly call
A

she

but
*

to

lord

my

friend.'
of

this'

turned

to

his

gestures

of

steadfast

heart

Mother,'

from
the

be

daughter
withheld
woman

As

with

her

wavered

the

so

brow

asked,

of all the

earth,

whose

of your

he

her

of

from

very

father, my

of

and

even

moment

the

caressing

the
in

queen's

the

less
merci-

schemes.

said,

you
what

Arbaces,
me,

one

for

youth upward

my

queen's
she

ruler

breath

childhood

prosecution of
*

I would

spearman,

the

on

the

there

'

'?'

king

He

war-worn

mc.

cushions,

while

future

He

couch, and

whom

one

laugh

the

you,

hangs

the

empire

take

can

crosses

the

on

its

amongst

careless

queen,

own.

my

if he

perplexitycrossed
a

from

existence

aside

wliole

have

gain

with

'

prince.

heartilyas

deal

to

the

forced

What

the

added, sinking back

head

shade

repeated the

mineJ'

!' said

vroman

his

and

quarrel as

183

SON.

man,'

enemy

mother's

my

up

bold

is your
him

Let

be

must

AND

and
care

have

I asked.
I

Give
content.

am

not

denied

never

to

look

on

me

me

now

If she
an

veiled
un-

again.'
light of morning

creeps

over

fair land-

184

SARCHEDOX.

the

scape,

matchless
in

the

beauty;

lake, that

features

of her

and

alike !

how
'Is

she

slender

Such

then

random

at

through
about

and

daughter

The

of the

daughters

tent, I

my

will

draws

into

mirrored

glowing

this

'

of flowers

bow

drawn

deftly

so

Is there
to

heard

her

in follies

day

its shaft

men

pale

gold yesterday

posy

that

were,

magic

feet with

that her

mother

stars.'

of earth

repliedthe prince.

of

every

sent

I have

sign ?

the

harness.

your

she

for

believe

have

joints of

on

cup

made

are

not

could

girl,that

look
a

the

the

mere

was

I did

is

Semiramis,

in return
son,

face

comely they

flung a

you

exchanges, my

thus

how

her

sky

reflected

was

fair,'asked

whom

; but

summer

Again

chariot

your

like yours

smile

so

brightened

the

as

son.

girl,to

from

smile

queen's

are

if this

But

look

never

good enough

in

one

comes

the

face

for me,'
into

not

of

woman

again.'
*

The

tent

is not

glancing
beams

of

dijB"cult

round

cedar, the

of that
to

to be

the
inlaid

painted

gilding and

are

she

ramis,
Semi-

vermilion, the

flooring,the purple hangings,

chamber.

please, if

Nevertheless, there

despised,'answered

find

'

And

fault

obstacles

in

she
with
our

must

its
wa}*.

be
lord.
Ar-

:\IOTHER

baces
us,

would

AND

surely neither

and, if he did, could

how

shall

wish

be

aside

set

we

185

SOX.

dare

nor

silenced

oppose

removed.

or

opposition of

the

to

But

lord

my

the

king?'
He

'

would

it too

well.

The

heart

of the

Great

'

he

May

Those

consent,' said Ninyas

never

mill-stone

King.

live

for

of Nimrod's

you

have

me,

my

little to
son

do

"

*I would

whole

my
'

passionately,
for
At

the

and
he

forego Babylon

overpast
'

am

swelled

power

the

and

seclusion, until

immortal

; and

Tell

of time.

?'

life afterwards,' he
here

doubt, he

nor

mi^i^ht take

in

queen.

girlso much

this

passing inclination,

if you

the

lapse

bring her

no

neither

escape

the

!'

ever

into

wered
ans-

ing
dwell-

my

day.'

bosom,' continued

your

to

had
difficulty,

had

And

and

moment,

of

stream

'

year

indeed

are

from

live for

repeated

reallylove

you

give

ever!'

race

hope

he

May

the

than

harder

is not

I know

'

the

stemmed
into

this

'would

wrath

remain
of

the

The

by opposition
sire
of de-

torrent

fair

pleasures?

secret, and

truth.

to control.

inclination

queen,

its

spoke

dove

vour

to

consent

you
Would
for

to

you
a

Great

make

season

Iving

in
was

?'

ready

to go

now,'

answered

the

impetuous

186

SARCHEDON.

boy.

land

horses

My

of Shinar.

the

his

You

need

mother

"Ount

line

at

her

or

longer

liave

all the

in

the

to

ends

of

to

to

in

to

faces

look

in

been
if

confer

ever

the

loftyAscalon
time

and

the

the

you

as

woman,

and

in
are

yours
them

boy's
"

to

nation

be

of

is

corn.

and

safe

entreaties

of

be

you

the

lord

my

the

continued

the

tone

'

ruin

for

of all

freely.'

too

she

made

rule, trust

price

half- sorrowful

of huts

may

resentment

but

which

constant

my

than

more

while

loyalty of
in

common

to

come

you

all

and

the
far

still

can

hamlet

mere

rise

Babylon,

hold,
strong-

Ninus

girl is willing,of course,'

on

of her

service

my

here

softened

tenderly

smile

And

until

queen,

No

lightest word.

be,

people's gratitude than

The

who

beard

even

king.

such

it

would

proof against

have

ancient

the

enough,

shall

mine

son,

Nevertheless,
secret

In

Ascalon/ replied

My

benefits

seldom

who

still have

marsh.

'

than

though

devoted

are

would

me

no

friend

my

Nineveh,

for

smile.

timeworn

multitude

own.

fly with

farther

go

and

many

his

not

with

rude

in

I v/ill

purest breed

earth.'
*

in

of the

are

was

so

thinking,
fond,

so

could

winning,

resist
so

like

that
her

188

SAKCHEDON.

Sarcliedon

Foolish

command,
are

5'ou

with

'

knee

for

even

have

lotus-flower

or

'

isinyas.

like the

Great

King

chariot

into
trifle

merest

his son,

are

answered

hoy,

inherit
moulded
in
'

temperament
the

to

"

not

at

murmur

safety,nor
preserve

toy with

your

quarrel with
you

from

the

lash

and

Am

I not

father,'

your

and

for

my

you,

features

you

placable,and easily
^joyous,

not

you,

the

his

desert, if the

than

form

of those

wishes

the

by

roar

it is well

mother's

lightbantering tone,

Carry

do

your

wered
ans-

yours

And

'

queen.

with

her

as

are.

you

whim.

easily ruled

more

the

that

well

as

must

you

marches
and

his

to

my

all,from

of the

lion

contrary

runs

mother,

*You

chafe

the

on

I want,'

us

that

will

like

rage

with

so

spearman

Ninus

Even

himself

the

to

habe
what

have

valour,

your

; and

self-

sacrifice,though you

any

wilful

it not

Is

turned

face

cried

you

pomegranate

satisfied w^hen

am

and

when

as

toy to-day,at

your

tire of it to-morrow,
*

manhood

child

her

queeu

added, recoveringher

!' she

all your

much

as

while

teeth,

hoy

the

her,' hissed

love

not

clenched

her

through
white.

does

you

love.'

entirelydevoid
if

so

it must
I

measures

the

restraint

king's

anger,

take
that
as

She
of

spoke
scorn.

be ;
for

but
your

can

alone

3'oung

fences
'I
his

death

from

only

ask

with

do

shall

shall

you
hawk
Eide

the

desert.
the

order

for

such

no

will

place

compunction
force

the

they

have

could

of

the
an

seek.
herself

enemy

on

"

so

son,

women's

shawl

may

be

under

arms

resist, and

to

neither

the

hack

of

your

shall

you

"\Mien
need

court, I
from

the

apartments

round

take

will

these

occupy

head,

best

horse

fare,
war-

stronghold
not

are

her

in

steal hack

latelyreturned

who

and

lion

knows

of the

some

how

chief-captain's
palace.

of those

the

or

the

to he

ATith

the

as

mountain.

night.

who

gained possession

rights

the

my

the

attempt

head

remorse.

tell you,

scarce

of

gate

of

of spearmen

their

at

nor

secure

return, hut

you

darkness

hand

one

and

purposed hunting

single household

as

counsel, and

trust, with

can

house

father's

my

partridge on

see

none

girl,swift

you

the

city in

and

eyes,

Gates, taking Sethos,

you

Let

'Follow

the

whom

though

as

spear,

mine

her

off from

queen.

Great

attendant

one

to

of the

out

her

strikes

she

when

of

was

will.'

on

pounce

desire

Arhaces,'

of

daughter
the

you

the

which

heart.'

me

carry

to-night/ said

of that harness

weight

the

for

what

me

You

his

Give

'

reply.

the

under

chafes

warrior

189

SOX.

AND

MOTHER

and
or

far to

the

girl

swiftest

190

SARCHEDON.

in

dromedary,
the

less

such

sword

few

in the first watch

and

the

cityin

off in the

And

of
*

lion.

Arbaces

the

can

Baal

should

well

robes

about

of

While
from

many

as

it

he

amongst

it, laughing,on

shaft
were

spoke,

will

the

down,

age
cour-

avoid

hair

detection
to

wear

harness

proven

we

ere

of their

one

wrap

stands

priests of

few

neglect
a

have

not

as

jouy

see

?'

corner

Ninyas lightly,
bowmen

have

the

thrust

Pharaoh's

it,and

on

fuge,
re-

wered
another,' ans-

ridden

thus

not

but

has

He

gold,'answered

curiouslywrought;

spear

be

and

in the

*It is inlaid .with

place of

adversary who

Is that

aside

furlong

death.'

spearmen,

do

but

danger;

thrown

business.

the
you,

yonder,

blunted

An

Nevertheless,
fall in this

many

like

chance
*

muster

hill.'

must

son,

my

underneath.

and

his

to

put

is sounded

your

Ninyas.

coldly.

armour

'

be

to

can

alarm

will resist to the

He

on.

as

to the

?' asked

shall accompany

linen

the

you

stag

queen

head

of your

Arbaces

as

Ere

will take

path,

pass

it will take

night.

arms,

wild

the
in

servants

of

Arbaces

than

desert, galloping towards

like
'

time

it turns

bulrush.'

the

the other

queen

had

pieces of

her brows.

taken

armour,

and

helmet

placed

MOTHER

Tliey
'in

sou,

to

see

drink

face

it

taroth,

say

my

from

must

0T\'n

like

am

and

be

AND

true

on

!'

motlier,'

By

bearing.

image
stream

my

When

the

19

SOX.

the

Hook

march

her

exclaimed

beauty
at

you,

stooping

of

down

Ash-

seem

to

CHAPTER

XIV.

STRONG

It

is well

known

princes, and

that

shall

carry

shall

tell the

the

be hidden

from

interview
who

with

that

be

her

to

had

for

royal

that

in
and

Ishtar
as

had
in

wilful

'

ears

it to

the

the

bird

which

of the

hath

rank.

lower

been

it may
don's

by Sethos,
Ninyas

to

air

wings

Sarche

witnessed

duty bound,

from

kept

scrupulously

his

counter

the

stole

after

soon

very

of

Assyrian palaces,
ceremonies,

to

mother,

apartments

occasion,

be

to

and

youth, ignoring, according

interest, intrigue, and

on

not

are

that

curiosityof

knowledge

quitted

forms

secrets

matter,' however

mentioned

came

that

everything running

custom,
never

DEATH.

voice, and

reported it,

although

AS

her

below
an

her

to

wishes,

whole

affair

Semiramis

son.

It

the

surface

under-current

may
of
of

license, vrhich, eddying upward

troubled

the

courtly

waters

to

brim,

the

those

and

of

luxury

themselves

certain

relieved

that

hard-earned

and
It

was

look

on

that

into confidences

whatever

as

the

it had

the

listened,
the

colour turned

withhold

to

good

lost

and

evil,within

or

in

time

no

or

imparting

yet

what

her

heart

That

she

to her

left

I.

more

arrived

at

about

her

how
distinctly,

the

cheek.

wishes

they

tearing
daily

were

formed,

were

woman's

royal inheritance

desire

tire-women

self-contemptwere

she, whose
before

of

veins

blue

fainter in her

rage and

anticipatedalmost
since

the

turbed.
undis-

appearance

practised

how

shade

all

to

themselves

And

VOL.

Idng'scup-bearer

the

wiser
of

most

marked

temples traced

had

been

and

tact

mistress.

have

never

eyes

morning.

maturer

lead

citywalls, she

Only

at

his

laughing

summer's

woman's

learned

Kalmim

Semiramis

could

senses,

or

dame, joyous of temperament,

black-browed

greater experienceshould

to her

deny

to

sweetened

with

comely youth

natural

without

of the heart

relaxations

peasant's toil,and

the

pleasant to
was

magnificence refused

and

sphere
atmo-

au

fare.

Sethos
Kalmim

habituallyin

lived

who

193

DEATH.

AS

STRONG

who,

estate, and

beauty,

of matchless

ungratified,should

ceeded
suc-

find, here
o

in

194

SARCHEDON.

Babylon,
as

the

it were,

the

of her

and

one

Great

of her

monarch

Tire

faultless

form

no

crevice

in

be

ruffled,not

Thus
will be

plait laid

fair that

the

face is he

beauty

sick and

he

earth, and

when

bade

but
and

coldly away,

in his

despair
"

shall die !
you

he

But

worm.

so

dared

to

he

yesterday

to

leave him

no, he

not

to

go

shall

I not

shall

for

entertain,

perish like
to

this

die !

love you

'

He

how^

see

look

faint

on

and

the

him

to

the

hope

I
a

will

turn

trampled

girl for

I have

so

king.'

heart

crush

Sarchedon, Sarchedon,

did
bitterly,

the

turns

feet

my

hence

go

despise,and

I will
at

sues

shall

He

till he

its rays.

fold must

own

gates.

undervalues,

dizzy in

him

has

her

be

must

lord

of my

to

the

since

awry,

but

about

not

"

her

reflected

There

'

to-day

presence

woman,

duty

on

to foot.

her

to

homely,

fore
she, sittingbe-

said

silver,that

armour

the

of

smile

mine

straightway into

the

as

the

envy,

follies

simple

head

from

resist

destiny

might

of burnished

mirror

such

nobly, Kalmim,'

me

could

other, preferring,to the

and

humble, unpolluted love

throne,

very

who

man

earth

on

sickly girl,the

the

favour,

the

power,

dominion,

undervalue

Queen's

mightiest
of

citadel

comfort

said it ; he

I could

well !'

not

hate

196

SAKCHEDON.

The
failed

old
liim

king's

surely,like
wine.

fain

was

bow

dreams

in the

drive

the

bright

of

vessel

of

battle, the

quivering
his

in his

knees,

shadows, memories,
Was

himself, that

land

of

between

past ?

this the

drew

Shinar, the

javelin through

steel

but

now

of the

broad

leaking

bounding

all

ask

to

or

senses

gradually,yet

royalty,the joy

horse

they

were

idle

vague
he

good

lamp,

of

pomp

pageant,

gi-asp, the

^what

unfed

an

The

feast, the

"

life waned

perceptibly,as

liis

and

dim,

were

eyes

and

the

arm

through

hand,

heaviest

that

could

the

lion's

heart ?
Yonder
deed
the

of prowess,

chase.

the

battle

not;

the

or

soared

were

long

siege;

array

archers
and

heaps

over

city,the

amidst

of

their

of

from

bank
laid to

and

arrows

its

spared

rolled, and
A

walls, to

to

bows,

slew, and

battering ram

shower

or

marching

bent

corpses.

many

of warfare

were

galloped, chariots

fallingheadlong

fishes in the

triumph

smote

spearmen

against

gates, while

in

sculptured

was

noble

many

horsemen

raised

wall

Warriors

slingers and

men

the

upon

tures
vulwas

its

javelins
feed

the

river below.

Again, linked

in

cruel

chain, the

paced slowly by, bearing

on

their

line

of captives

shoulders

AS

STRONG

of their

their
or

looks ; the

naked

wretch

glory,and

stately,the

brows, bow

and

mystery within
of

this

limbs,

silken, robes
carried

his

nodded

on

tame

the

at

ments,
gar-

"

some

"

of his

feet

strife,

of

scenes

its

about

bound

tiara

but, whether

ing
career-

prostrate enemies,

above

the

head

its

the

circle that heralded

or

royal parasol,

the

under

of state

be

with

the

same

stiff and

so

iron

the

less

he

aching,

now

patience

harness,
lean

Ninus,

neck

than

winged

sacred

son
per-

was

himself,

endured

head

whose
that

asked

they

once

wavered

once

strength, proud, erect, colossal, like

stone

tured
tor-

king.

Could

whose

country

and

all these

over

poised
a

of his

hand;

war-chariot

still

was

nostrils,

There, proffering

mercy

high

in

spear

the throne

tore

figure still predominated, tall,

rapine, one

the

and

fierce warrior

wild

amongst

fierce,and

there

his victim's

flesh,a

implored
But

executioner.

sittingon

in

animals

gold, grain,

in

their beasts

productions

the

tribute

cringing

beat

suppliant slave.

poor

some

women

flay his

to

sullenly,with

marched

men

Here, with hook

hair.

knife

for

The

conqueror.

downcast

goods, equallytlie spoil

stuff and

children, houseliold

197

DEATH.

tower

column

his

had
and

of
of

198

SAKCHEDON.

winged figurein the

that

And
it?

Did

race

of Nimrod

fable,a

it

really hover
in

know

when

it be

long

he

went

how

"

the stars

found

in

no

lion within

the

work
desert.
be.

such

as

the

of either

had

in search
the

Where

rush

he

champion

between

what

of the

men

where

he

stood,

down

under

the

ere

first

the

buffets

time,

the

Or

that

compaign,

made

valour,
reel

and

and

swarthy swordsman

of the

Great

stood

to witness

king

had

to

it

tallest warrior

Egyptian

matchless

Ninus

the

spears

chief counseller

caused

olden

slew in Bactria, who

Pharaoh's

assault

was

not

whom

his

it

was

in

for

palace,and

of battle

Ethiopian

armies

the

exterminated

ing
scorch-

giant and

the

northern

the

the

their

could

over

higher than

host, leaning on

The

all !

of him

the

were

than

his

fierce

sturdy

he

place among

plains,and

himself

paradise round
ride

single combat

the

fastness

palms' breadths

his

his

would

? and

leave, after

from

nearer

Even

to

of

myth,

Should

ancestors

to

driven

He

to

used

much

been

now.

two

too

priests?

he took

ere

"

not

mountains

weary

join his

to

long !

was

bull had

be

of the

protect the

to

this

was

was

There
wild

battle,or

imposition

mere

them

over

What

circle.

captain
whose

stagger
went

King, then

in

STRONG

the

vigour of

the

armies

his

of

Eg}'pt
his

to hid

press

of hattle.

Even

the

wine

feast had
was

become

hut

for the

the

made

love
a

side.

all those

Sethos
train

and

hardly

was

his hand

the

less
taste-

and

the

fray.

He

without

up

worth

was

the

as

into

worse,

to him

regret,

had

day

of attendants
where
a

that, like

"

heart

leave

began

was

her

to

observances,
chafed

fro to

he
noble

see

not

were

sat

he

her

to be

free,

tinged

such

as

absent

from

his
the

necessary

monial
cere-

the

the

throne

approach, some

than

more

light-footed

queen

at

his
with

bade
if the

at

presence

now

in his

frayed

directed

him

yet

them

she

glance

she

impatience

to and

hound

last,and

of every

summoned

in his

which

unreasoning jealousy,

royalty,which

command

link

at

moment

and

protest against his

angry

fierce old

of every

hurry

his
the

intolerant

from

could

without

way

of Eshcol

give it

snap

and

forms

of
ever;

in his

him

He

that

must

savage

another,

wine

slighterevery

bowstring, it

with

it

of Damascus

all,could

misgivings,

the

and

expedition

queen.

together grew

"

give

driver turn

Feeling, in spite of
own

his last

in
to

loathsome

of it

weary

seemed

his chariot

But

spear,

while

199

DEATH.

prime

struggle hefore

now

AS

and

her

though
gates, alof state

he

furlongs

in

200

SARCHEDON.

double

lengtli,through
leading to
A

hand.

because

the

tarried

so

the

said
takes

of that

hath

scarce

strength

like

pliant

halts

in

less

And

head

at

Sethos

the

queen

left to

draw

bending

spear

fails

and

me

now

that

or

empty

fair she. looked

in,

slender

beneath

on

and
of

truss

worse

it
hair

one

of mine,

attending her, boy

was

than

preserving

bow

harness,'

jet

worth

rode

we

of
time

body

worn-out

w^hen

us

Who

forage ?

'

not, Sethos, how

you

suits

surely better

is

of this

above

wall

tire her

head

vrhole

Saw

cup.

neglected

stormed

ten

prove

monarch,

to

comely

the

and

on

old

woman

than

stood

brim,
he

anon

palace.

lost its flavour, and

had

put

angry

and

monsters,

long.

could

'

the

filled to the

Ever
wine

of his

entrance

jewelled cup,

his

at

wide

the

colossal

of

lines

My

mory
me-

than

strung
ham-

steed.'
*

'

Kalmim,

with

bring

good

too

was

dreading

of the

certain

He

the

storm

in the

down

Sarchedon,'

guards.

lord,' answered

my

stout

women,
a

and

courtier

the

to

bearer,

mention

Assarac,

likely to

was

mood.

king's present

warrior

Sarchedon.'

priest'sname

repeated Ninus

cup

of

'
"

enough,

one

in

the

my

own

boy's play

we

call

and
his

STRONG

AS

fighting now,

and

comely

the

with

reply.

ranks

been

had

He

maid.

in the

duty
*

as

Great

201

DEATH.

comely youth

How

he

came

ruddy

"

absent

from

?'

by

sent

King's signet to

'He

has

remained

old

face turned

in

the

host

queen,' was

the

lord

my

the

from

attendance

her

on

ever

since.'
The

blood-shot

the

and

the

By

with

these

beard

bowmen

in

sword

my

He

is

on

where

he

was

his

on

amongst
person
Ere

the

and

Where

array?

Sarchedon,

even

under

their

better

order

Pharaoh

because

into

mount

to

duty

war-chariot

and

set

or

now

the

king

his

may

have
pany
com-

?'

great entrance,'

lord

the

chariot, I

pruning hook,

the

My

and

my

is this deserter

at
*

respectfulanswer.
from

pang,

!' exclaimed

of mine

longer flying before

no

forgotten how

'

savage

I will take

Ximrod,

they think,

are

beaten

of

golden guards

Do

'

king.

have

rolled

eyes

hidden

some

brows.

shaggy
*

with

gray

was

see

the
him

sits.'
in

truth,

guard
those
the

king

at

with
the

goodly

summon

of his

rades,
com-

palace gate, conspicuous

warriors

splendour

could

handful

by

the

beauty

of

of his attire.

him

to his

presence,

202

SAKCHEDON.

his attention
followed

diverted

was

the

by

of

that
and

winged bulls

of wild

flowers

The

of the

began

to

the

beat

not

were

faster

dim

avenues

of

growth

rock.

to mark

loved.

the

and

surface

too

he

woman

the

like

monsters,

wife,

fair and

through

trailingacross

of his

approach
household

wound

colossal

king's eyes

movement

the

of her

women

fragrant company,

by

His

blood

every

old

stirred

heart
his

in

veins.
How

fair

and

noble

shapely figure,as

it

step that

her

beautiful
a

became
the

distance

down

the

What
his
and

him

to

in

it

at

even

tinguishe
be dis-

not

as

and

was

veiled
un-

dwelling,that
she rode

Bactria, when

and

radiant, like

He

started, and

star

dropped

heaven.
this ?

was

for

of them

Semiramis,
ceremonies

easilyrecognised
could

that

measured

delicate

How

its features

morning
serene

camp

throne;
one

the

entering her husband's

on

from

so

bringing back

well-remembered
into

of

bearing

with

on

well !

so

which

and
now,

glided

pale face

from

the

was

she
had
who

that

through

them

had

half

paused amongst

fallen
was

on

trammelled
at will

all

weaker
in

the

his face at her

above

the

from

rose

guards,
feet.

forms

and

ing
natures, break-

court, camp,

or

palace,

204

SAECHEDON.

and
her

pitilessonce

more

he

as

prostrated himself

at

feet.
You

'

entitled

are

haughtily,

coldly and

very

the

signet

intercede
in

turned

to

marked

Yet

stone.

that

he

she,

hither
to

part

the

old

grant

your

tom
cus-

sire,
de-

kingdom.'
her

heart

;moment

she

pleasure,and

even

still

borne

is my

It

him

bids

with

lightened

eyes

having

as

favour, and

in your

half of his

to the

even

request,'said

king.

of Shinar

land

our

His

him

the

lord

of my

with

ask

to

that

in

amulet

her

wore

round

his

neck.
The
instinct

of the

queen's face
wdt

oflshtar

name

"

forbade
to

bow

him
his

lips,but

his

on

be

it may

palace

"

enough

was

forehead

in

something
it.

to pronounce

in

the

some

the

had

He

dust,

and

to

answer,
*

and

do

but

desire

permission

to

the

abide

light
in the

of her

service

countenance,
of the

Great

Queen.'
She

her

eyes

Is
you

not

was

shone

there

no

desire,

deceived
with

treasure
no

by

his

submission, though

softer

lustre

you

covet,

maiden

in

the

while

no

she

post

whole

tinued,
con-

of honour
land

of

STRONG

Sliiuar

fain

205

DEATH.

take

Lome

with

to

you

your

?'

tent
*

I may

cautious
the
to

would

you

AS

puts
'

the

face, with
wounded

some

is

of the

Great

among

Queen

of

prince

is

been

of

full
who

one

pain
"

hard

said, in

has

him

Looking

pitilesssmile

reptileout

damsel

the

now

calm

late,' she

too

'The
Even

from

blow.

vrith. her

ready

was

It

heg

choose

his

was

Ishtar, the daughter of Arbaces.'

give me

in the

Ashtaroth,'

needs

earth, I would

of

to

eyes

If I must

'

reply.

flowers

She

lift mine

not

cutting

promised

liftingher

to

veil to

cents.
ac-

son.

my

salute

his

bride!'
his

In

The

Great

King

his
bristling,

to

For

'

By

has

laid

flesh

him
A

score

of

of my

Cover

he

his

of hands

loins
to

not

beard

able
ungovernfind

even

out,
it is too

before

queen

with

could

burst

Nisroch,

the

on

he

space

be consumed

should

with

blood

hands

he

Were

he

the

Then

speak.

feet, his

his

to

sprang

eyebrows shaking

very

anger.
voice

forward, grasping the queen's

his hand.

wildly in

robe

he fell

agony

my

bone

and

ashes.

much

face !

very
of my

He

body,

Ho, guards, away

face and

lead him

grasped

the

forth !'

offender, a

score

206

of

SARCHEDON.

her

was

statelyform

shake

to

that,

while

My

It is not

worship

she

fair brow

he

of the

or

no

the
it

foam
in

was

guards
men

appeal, in

on

vain

to

his

her

head,
fore-

hand.
feast

of

Baal.

during

'

hath

the

such

from
a

his

hand

at his

When

lip.
for

sue

that

eyes

pardon.
over

the

feet.

To-morrow

he

shall die

spoken.'

looked

knew

king's

wrinkled

Ninus.

king

the

stood

kneeling

woman

The

reprieve.

liftingthe

Assyi-ianborn

an

passed

it so,' said

the

fall of the

against

the

is

turbulent

and

in his

light in

red

thus,

sunrise.

this

'

in that

die !

not

of it

other

queen's

great Assyrian god.'

and

faces ; for all

was

the

the

the

to

even

act,

own

own

throne,

end

slay

to

shone

looked

Then

placed

her

to

the

her

foot; and

to

it

Though

was

should

one

lawful

death,

'Be

laid

said,

Nevertheless,

at

head

might,

lord,'she

of the

There

he

caused

passed swiftlyto

king's sceptre,

meant

feeling

Sarchedon

Assyrian empire,
She

it

swore

what

come

because

from

she

moment

supreme

'

of

revulsion

liis breast.

at

act, nay,

own

strong

heart

pointed

were

spears

furtivelyin
such

sentence

no

each

other's

judgment

hope

there

of mercy

XV.

CHAPTER

queen's

THE

Saechedon

hurried

was

taught them
him

take

hideous

the

from

They
Avhen

sight, however,

hardly
priest

breathless

haste, brought

deliver

their

up

the

festival

was

even

paid

amongst

policy

prisoner

had

of

Ninus

if it had

himself.

him

the

in

the

from

to

the

his

Idng's

Assarac

in
to

god.

deity, unusual

spect
re-

character

cultivate

from

some

of the

and

as,

King, Assarac's

friendship and

high priest'sbehest
emanated

ere

of

temple

of the Great
to

discretion

Baal, arriving

of

national

ence
experi-

be added

out

order

sacerdotal

guards

taught

acquire influence,
readily,as

the

to

the

that

an

yet

Ninus

should

were

their

fate

of

presence

mutilation

cruelty or

punishment.

On

the

inevitable, had

was

custody of his

the

in

away

comrades, who, pitying

former

to

petition.

was

Arbaces

obeyed
or

even

208

SARCHEDON.

that

he

might

speculating

taught
the

him

work

The

however,

with

of

when

night

advantage

knowledge

he

shaft

such

of

of its votaries

between

the

temple

the

Ninyas

here, she

whom

of her
shot

was

to

been

might

think

that,

even

tipped
could
of

whilst

be

he

dearly

deftlyhome,

pitilessarcher

feel

; to

caged bird, yearning

it had

madness

was

was

because

which

cruellyas
It

arms

freedom

queen's

poison
as

guards

town.

wildlyfor

the

soner
pri-

building,but

escape

surelyexist

must

Meantime,

loved.

his

the

pass

spacious chambers,

take

as

far

so

sacred

of

could

he

to

its

chances

his

on

communications

secret

the

from

large through

fall, and

should

and

of egress
at

roam

only

permitted

not

was

point

at any

became

therefore

Sarcliedon

did

Jiim

was

to

sired.
dethe

in
a

struggling for

freedom, perhaps calling on

its

have

Ishtar
he

and

soner
prisonal
perher

save

in vain.
But

trained

men

reviewing calmly
undervaluing
them;
the

bearing

its

to

all

warfare

sides

difficulties

especiallythey
of

of chance.

of

was

not

dilemma,

nor

habit

into
the

long

of

neither

despairing to

take

probabilitiesand
It

acquire the

quish
van-

consideration

important

before

trine
doc-

Sarchedon

queen's

THE

he

reflected
and

her

chief

it

falsehood

for

dignity
of

reasons

ought

conducive

impossible

to

the

to

to

mistake

with

interview

under

If

and

her

urge
bear

could

very

to

king's

prince,

from

such

thought
absolute

an

he

reasons,

"

his

his

It

person.

escape

far

would

him
the

of

he

and

should
him

at

the

in their

late

the
be

first

to

would

seek

Ishtar

Merodach

once.

the

he

use

the

into

hiding-place

and

hatred

King.

she

beyond pursuit
find

vious
ob-

and

Great

thought,
;

was

interest, her

accosted
eyes

pected,
sus-

self-love

changing moods,

flywith

merciless

him

avowed

freedom

they

have

flatteringto

him,

both

them

desert, where
the

the

of his

make

would

she

his

own

safety of

which

for

surely provide

be

her

loved

Semiramis

tell

val
arri-

espousals of

absent

might

to

her

her

condescension,
bitterness

if the

be

hardly

that Semiramis

her

that
and

would

shield

queen's

reallytaking place vdth.

; and

below

not

under

of the

that

palace ;

were

captain

ceremony

Arbaces

seen

brief space

husband's

daughter

the

himself

within

helmet
at

his

had

209

petition.

queen's

from
more

cruel love.
Sarchedon

Baal,

hardly

was

VOL.

then, imprisoned

I.

so

ill at

ease

as

in

the

the

temple

wilful
p

of

impe-

210

SAKCHEDON.

rious
to

captivityand
The

and

old

the

her

at her

scowled

the

of

out

his

judicious promptitude by
first

Ninus

moment

had

face, he

in it

he

powerless to resist, and

she

ere

grace,

and

rested
low

I thank

to the

is

of

of his

that

some
win-

his

heart

charm
half

with

subdued
tender
his

over

already
confiding

gaunt

arm,

murmured

she

while

was

in

he

been

loving

w^as

servant

moved

be

ill at
ask

deaf

by

Is

what

the

under

hastilyto
ease.

ear

of this.

born

spearman

summoned

to

no

enough

But

thoughtless

he

turned

has

it

his

bold
over-

lord

ails my

?'

nothing

the

on

should

Ninus

feared

'Nothing
'

that

I have

presence.

king

that

well

evil star.

the

looked

handmaiden.

of his

voice
not

lord

my

misconduct
an

with

presence

from

was

them,

on

of

soft accents,
'

It

brow

her

retiringform

hut

hands

her

crossing

jealousy

comrades;

him

towards

leaned

fierce

royal

ever

found

with

the

followed

ejes

culprit,hurried

the

brouglithim

shame.

king

as

rage

liad

malice

reckless

whose

woman

but

senseless

queen,' he

ails me,'
the

clamour

outcries

added

was

of

the
of

impatient
women's

priests.
*

more

gently,

because

answer;

voices
sent

she

and

for

the

is

the

212

SAnCHEDON.

^Yllcn

bright morning
like

Ccamp
the

And

'

her

beauty deepened
scarce

unless

be

If he

loves
he

answered

loves

the

of Belus

shot
at

modesty

is

ours

at the

for each

burst

on

I
at

my

lord

with

murmured

while

conscious
'

king
his

not

refuse

who

Nay,

earnest
to

grant
feet.

royal
; and

and

"

seems

like

wine-

in the fire

!'

glances

could

she

mirth, tenderness,
the

the

meeting

of

of cedar
queen

fire of love.
'

Such

stars, and
of those

but

who

an

god

'I

are

of

and
lieve
be-

afi'ection

kindles

yesterday that

Shamash,

it !*

things

most

bubble

log
my

gainsays

to love

gently.
in

sight

of

is in

at

to the

which

blended

my

her

in

lay

of those

one

It

love

queen,

he

alive

to love

other.

her

cheek.

the

ceased

like

will,in

first

will

of battle

written

her

believe

I have

him

the

pride

on

flayed

cease

granted

little still !'

I burn

were

it,'she

flame

'

may

command

as

him

roar

when

She

througli the

for

me,

and

request

me

have

But

cup.

and

to

surely he

Ninus.

from

now,

hand,

colour

the

the

me,

I will

'

in

fair ?' smiled

so

brought

again

I think

ride

asked

prevail on

can

once

her

hope, triumph,

of

shall

saw

pleading eyes.'

soft

I still

am

flush

me

she

first boon

face and

sweet

vision, bow

very

into

destined
my

day,

lord
ris-

queen's

THE

splendour

iu

ing
head

because

my

old

blushing

face

in

frame

king's

in

vibrated

affection

fibre

every

of

paniment
accom-

uncertainty

of

sense

"

well.'

too

invariable

the

arose

hands,

my

only

my

unworthiness.

and

*I

was

and

on

cheek

spiritlike

my

There

him.

by

swear

more

Not

dignity of
all the

it is not

shot

at my

touched

exclaimed,
lord,

my

host

of heaven,

deeds

past

and

Nay,

alone

lord

as

who

he

that

to

mature

ardour

of

so

through

are

you

in the

now,

fame, than
your

added
closer
there
the

hero

me

beautiful

and

think
rode

that

save

love, my

sadly,while clinging yet

I

hoarse

hanging fondly about

beloved,' she

my

heart,

any

my

kingly, more

more

deep

in view.

purpose

vehemence

half

from

the

your

manhood.

gone

in

so,

noble,

fire has

plaintivering

she

the

the

so!'
'

faded

limbs.'

with

'Not

has

my

have

in

colour

strength from

must

woman

worse,

spent

the

was

voice, that

and

now,

not

the

but

been

life had

whose

one

war-chariot

saddle
my

for

he, 'and

then,' said

warrior

stout

uncomely,

so

'

that

thrill

the

of sincere

of

and

because, alreadyI loved him

"

With
the

bury

to

away

turned

camp,

the

on

213

petition.

in

impetuous
half
to

his

were

streets

fully,
playside,
looks
from

214

SARCHEDON.

the

in

brightesteyes

full

surely I

have

made

the

his

was

me

and

desert,

only

miserable

so

had

Bab^'lon,that

and

queen

I had

looked

never

I not

fled

love, would

straightway to

the

on

known

of

face

man

again.'
Is there
insensible

any

at which

age

such

to

the

battles,glorious in

that

Great

well

half
*

know

da}^,and

and

And

the

those

her

granted, her

the

smiled

petition
more

game

hero

proudly, 'and

old

hosts

world

has

till m^^

held

!' murmured

resistless

tower

stood

of many

possession,with
she

the

Well, well, it

from

when

spearman

surrender,

took
'

in

prime.

of

above

triumph

felt that

stout

ruin, doubtless, what

once

for

tories,
vic-

been

Ninus

half

than

said the
still,'

its

hundred

won.

They

in its

of

life and

hundred

fancy; yet

Semiramis

already more

than

by

counts

woman's

pleased,and

was

out-worn

King might surely have

of

gain

becomes

heart

ebbing

splendour

boyish vanity,which

empty

the

and

male

With

flattery?

failingvigour, battered

the

the

all the

it since
his

have

must

one

here

honours

against

been

assault

an

many

wife, with
a

see

they judge by

nations,

queen

glances, and

they

nor

in

thought

marched

in

of war.'
every

woman

another

bright flush.

'

of
Is it

not

so

Let

me

Keep
have

and

the

hear

playfully; but
he

the

head

added

It

with

fond

is

empire
lord

said

he

fondly.

took

Xinj'as for

wild
the

I had

fairlyin
for

the
you,

the

the

grant

that

of

the
the

while

I
men

for

me

from
stood

beloved,

nay,

the

it

be,

lad

which

call fear !

the

of my

like your

hunt

no

wept
him

him

took

his

dismounted,
never

knew

mine

when

he

his

on

the

wind

of

tell

must

how

was

cheek,

name.

maid, and

like

side
out-

Samiel,

but

like

we

lion

ride

hand

dried

soon

with

the

; but

boy,'

when

needs

to

he

whole

seat

remember
to

bent

there

It is the

are

must

he

Semiramis,

sit in

not

you

away

'

You

'

the tears

broke

eyes,

day.'

to refuse

saddle

horse

fain

Merodach,

heart

her

to

start

tears.

first time

war-horse,

desert,

felt what

Do

the

not

her

head.

walls, and

blood

tears

!' exclaimed

I would

his

shook

By

to

empire.'

ready as

as

Ninus

the

Xisroch,

granted, whatever

that

king, but only

the

be

than

more

I desire

the

ness,
great happi-

my

haste, *Xay,

half of mine

smile

suspense.

is,'said the old warrior

it

observingthe

in

to the
'

for
of

first what

queen's petition shall

even

of

agony

word

king's

by

the

215

!'

I must

in

not

me

swear,

desire

my

petition.'

queen's

THE

have

prized

216

SAKCHEDOX.

the

liorse

boy, till my
Samiel

lord ; and

loved

out, and

the

queen

That

she

too

should

Does

she

know

turbulence
to

be

the

and

opened

priests,the
and

be

not

may

But
ramis

and

been

doom,

those

words,

fatal

all other
looked
answered
'

My

sight

in

lord

of his

mother
save

when

the

Great

her

of the

and

The

king

'

tender

to

the

craft

of

the

seat

of

his

which

of Semi-

who,

one

yet been

hath

tender

inevitable

of

by

spoken,' swept
and

winds,

she

never

while

now,

she

request
Shall

lose

heart

towards

he

her

to

our

she

place in

at

son

withhold

desire, because

fears to

Kinof ?'

the

royal word,

than

whisper

eyes.

soul's

at

rendered

fairer, fonder

wet

for sluices

thought, however,

ratified

granted

she

borne

The

considerations

truer,

worn-

control ?

dailyclamour

softened

home.

Sarchedon's

his

asked

cannot

cruelties,had

and

his

from

queen

consideration, the

have

loving in

hurt.
un-

?'

last

all his crimes

me

Assyrian people, the

witness

weight

recalled

might

with

false

to

rider

granaries unbarred,

the

for the

she

the

the

his

it the

steed

pride of

crowd,

and

was

back

far distant

dead,

what
ride

be

to

is

"

the

of the

judgment,

not

Samiel

now

him

brought

from

cannot

the
the

weep

the heart

of

queen's

THE

His

head

sank

it

withering, as

now,

confinement

of

of

'

camp.
hath

king

Her

signet

it is

'
"

the

the

granted :

the

of

said

make

queen

of

King.

reply.
has

toy that

wearily than

more

in my

session
pos-

ask

to

noon.'
the

I have

Great

at

it,'was

'

rich

the

and

triumph,

cheek.

to-morrow

I have

hand

my

in her

mantled

will my

weaiy

atmosphere

in the freer

with

blazed

it until

'

soou

spoken.'

the

keep

was

hopelesslyin

more

it,' said he

Name

eyes

crimson

seemed,

palace than

; he

his breast

on

217

petition.

did

ever

'But

what

often

cumbered

use

bridle, spear,

or

shield ?'
'I

will

but

Semiramis

the

nightfallinto
sacrifices,and

god

much
at

cedar
out

pour
will

There

be

leaping,howling,

the

pass

not

altars ; the
before

my

lord's

my
'

calmly.

shall

Baal, and

of

it to

use

Is

the

wered
advantage,'ans-

to-day the

not

Great

house

King
the

on

and

prophets

gashing
of the

lord, bearing earth

caskets, gold, franldncense,

lord

is weary
to

even

now.

burn

to

his

drink-ofteringsbefore
long procession

Let

strengthen him

him

priests,

themselves
must

groves

too

and

water,

and

take

for the

of

of

at

up

go

roof

feast

cones,
fir-

gifts. My
his

tedious

rest

disturbed
un-

labours

218

SAKCHEDON.

of the

night.

Great

King

the

and

his

the

safetyof
He

Meanwhile

hold

authority.

nation, and

for

getting drowsy,

was

the

will

of the

signet

provide for

our

own.'

and

his

were

eyes

already half-closed.
You

have
and

Arbaces,
of the

he

that

be

before

the

that

presumptuous

with

up

led forth

dared

who

to

the

rise

her

hath
feet of my
But

look

lord
she

Proceeding

chief

from

the

was

no

his

in

the

him

words

few

purport

appeal

of

from

sight.

I take

my

great gate

see

and

repeated

the

his
I

maiden
hand-

cover

the

leave.'
for
in

even

one

last

its ruin,

paused

of Arbaces.

ear

even

communication

command

robes

her

of its repose.

surprised,and

she

palace, Semiramis
in

her

"

die

must

that

abandonment

the

*
"

spoken,

gathered

thank

king, and

in the

captain seemed

by

day!'

she

as

*I

at

have

sleeping form, mighty

formidable

whisper

the

flame

queen's path

another

favour

turned

the

at

and

found

spearman'

day.'

of

depart,

to

to

captain for setting

the

cross

Send

expiring

dawn.

at

mechanically; adding,
about

chief

an

the rise of another

'Before

murmured.

with

And

blazed

he

he

advise

watch.

here

signet,'he

my

backed

to

The

discomposed
;

by

but
the

there

royal

220

S.VRCHEDON.

without

especial power
forth, and

gone

him

in

of

company

eunuch,

toy

have

'

the

on

and

as

road

chief

his blood

be

*More
'

we

own

son

my

for

bestowing

insure

the

the

his

head

own

blood

But

life,my

guard

not,
'?

road

own,

all

"

dare

we

Yonder

and

The

the

of

w^ar-

Ai'baces,

strong hand,

?'
the

to power
too

that

poor

late

stop.

not,

to

man
spear-

to-night;

Is

so

back

turn

condemned

stake

at

are

mired

not

were

it is

fully.
sorrow-

queen

Sargon

to

and
be

orders

stands, waiting for his

he

new

of such

palace

with

its

Ascalon.

at

obedience

force

him,' said

escort

child

refuge

captain resists

on

the

must

trusted

the

guard
his

to

0, that the

Your
of

will

slaughter!' exclaimed

with

now.

Has

order

spearmen

required to

are

if the

deep

taken

jou

his

remove

walls.

the

will

and

king's signet will

riors

to

safetyto-night?'

*A
the

Arbaces

commanded

have

now.'

even

Assarac
a

the scowl
smiled

"

than
:

glanced
few
of

paces

the

the

where

that

warrior

tioned,
sta-

was

with

off,silent, erect, immovable,

undying

and

to

hatred

queen

on

his brow.

thought

shield-bearer's

his

frown

smile
"

The

priest

more

ful
fear-

while

he

plied
re-

queen's

THE

'

captive

gourd

in

desire

to

has

shed

the

the

iu

the

dungeon

garden

father's

blood

for

thirst

of

his

221

petition.

longs
but

water;

for

child

vengeance

?'

light,

for

what

on

is

one

and

their

who

CHAPTER

CRUEL

The

AS

passed

queen

on

yet glanced towards

her

at

importance

who

That

spearman

of my

lord

brought

These
to

her

At

who

who
she

Is

face

had

it not

royal signet

he

as

observed

the
the

so

of

lessly,
care-

sure
displea-

messenger

the

from

alike ;
fell

fully
respect-

something

incurred

all somewhat

speaking,

walked

last she

has

king.

without

paces

though

the

are

recognise his

GRAVE.

few

mind.

the

me

guards

THE

Assarac,

side, as
on

XVI.

yet

camp?
seemed

untowardly

at my

feet.'
*

The

same,' answered
'

tones.

enough, by
in
safe

at

the

least

Sarchedon.

temple

of Baal

nightfall.

He
under
Nor

his

and

goodly youth,

name

till

in

Assarac,

stout

has
my

can

calm

been

meaning
un-

rior
war-

stowed
be-

authority,
he

escape.

CRUEL

thougli guard
is

no

and

223

gea^t:.

THE

priest are

from

egress

AS

of call ; for

out

chamber

tlie last

in

galleryon

the

upper

story where

whence

he

could

scarcely flywere

and

all the

against the
him

of

not

would

he

From

for

the

over

brain

teaches

that

me

unclouded

Earth

spoken it,and
He

in

attention

the

for

her

the

who

below.

her

she

and

me,

till my

dim.

Great

future

book

heaven.

of

great

The

Seven

It

Shinar,

is fairest

the

him

night shall

of this
of

for

and

bravest

and
is

Semiramis
Stars

Queen
be
have

lie !'

cannot

at

queen's
interest.

goddess Ashtaroth

shall

so

his

Stars, poring

were

land

raise

watched

for

the

darkness

the

they

wondered

the

for

above,
of

Queen

secrets

the

in

As

women.

of Heaven

eyes

read

to

unrolled

it is

priest,

the

Seven

mine

glory

empire

supreme
among

no

are

have

they

to

breathless

of

over

But

the

garment,

the

of

and

learned

has

dawn

decree

giddy

there

Queen,

air

scroll of fire

was

who

the

stands

seemed

sunrise

to

to borrow

stronghold.

her

of

and

sunset

waited

with

hem

cheeks

burning
*

the

above

he

image

never

painted

placed him,

speak,' continued

keenly noting, though

eyes

his

to

entrance

I have

whose

Nisroch,

of

wings

the

tliere

pre

had

-occupation,contrasting
latelyshown

her

present

224

SARCHEDON.

and

listlessness

brow, while

his

over

had

touch

yet

also to be

me

with

scorn

if the
lect,
intel-

which

to

should

happy

be

great,

that

robe

the

will

or

?'

her

beauty, is inseparablefrom

the

*Did

ask,

to

queen's greatness,'answered

The

happiness, like
or

of

her

move

instrument

that

promise only

they permit

her

to

herself

roused

she

Presently

'

almost

reflected,that

failed

subtler

splendid

heart.

her

stars

he

of ambition

mighty engine
he

to the

prophesied. Something

destiny thus
passed

indifference

apparent

Assarac,

being.

very

be

it, can

covers

'

like
Her

put

on

off at will.'
'You

he

look

panting at

drink.

and

bid

stars
'

well

so

passed

chin.

very

'

over

then, their behests.

lute
reso-

beautiful

who

stands

fool not

Tell

me,

the

her

she

And

indeed

while

were

to

stoop
the

What

will I do.'

that

Queen

Great
so

exclaimed,

fountain

me,

The

heaven

knew

to the

down

face

right,'she

are

readily as

read

cannot
a

humble

from

book

of

lowest

of

the

priest,the

her

slaves, though this lore, too, will I aspire to tea^ch

her

at

some

fairlywrit
as

the

future
out

flight

in
of

an

time;
the

but

there

Assyrian

arrow

lies in the

character

through

the

temple,

and

plain

air, a

scroll

CEUEL

that teaches

us

AS

needs

empire

must

secure

chamber

winged image
While

he

the faintest

of

our

god.'

spoke, not

the

curl
slightest

in

keenly
walk

her

in

the

of his

the

that which

from

seemed

very

mighty

lip,

voice, betrayed a hidden

of his

meaning

glanced

found

of Nisroch

inflection

short

ruler

painted gallery under

straightforwardwords

stopped

rudiments

the

It is to be

inquire.

of the

motive, another

queen

the

which

mysteries into

of those

of Baal

servants

poor

225

GEAYE.

THE

to

and

Yet

the

face, while

she

towards

the

convey.

his

in

plain

turned

temple, observingonly,
*

It is not

I shall have

sunset.

3'etnear

lightto

read the scroll.'

Then

she

desiring that

Kalmim

dismissed
she

priestof Baal, in

might
whose

be

and

attended

her

women,

only by

the

steps,nevertheless,Sargon

followed like his shadow.

Arrived
a

within

the

porch

of the

as
great sigh of relief,
though

refreshing coolness
their smooth

their vast
secrecy and
sarac

of

those

repose.

recesses,

She

had

luxuriated

she

that

countless

I.

in the

columns,

spoke

of calm

and

gone

far,ere

As-

not

stopped and prostratedhimself

VOL.

gave

spacious halls, with

shining floors,their

shadowy

temple, she

at her feet.
Q

226

SARCHEDON.

'

her

Let

the

not

servants,' said

her

on

feast

duties

who

studied
will

call who

thus,
to

me

summon

can

*if he

ask

from

mission
per-

to be prepared

to

must

Great
in

those
her

range
ar-

lect
neg-

scroll lies where

the

of

dance
atten-

details

many

The

when

hands

clap her

but

so

lowest

much

so

enough, if, standing

it

the

to-night,that

of

read, and

may

pass

is

of Baal,

longer.

no

with

brief space

There

sacrifice

for the
my

for

person.

the

for

wroth

wily eunuch,

the

relieved

he

to

be

queen

all
has

Queen

she

this

spot,

shall

be within
without

presence

delay.'
frowned, though the

Semiramis
mask

scarce

be

it

You

He

and

rose

Clear

cups

of the

for

which
same

space,
to

women

my

she ;

ere

'

theless,
never-

breathe

to

return

palace

him

across

this
with
the

metal.

sign
that

to

Sargon,

caused

the

forthwith.

queen's presence,
stood

movement,

every

to follow

of the

on

content

am

retired,making

his

watched

table

said
royalreception,'

dismissed.'

are

shield-bearer

so.

the

and

Kalmim

who

gratefulair

and

river.

but

smile.

*It is

cool

did

frown

Assarac

golden flagon and

pointed to
drinking-

228

SARCHEDON.

It needs

is left here

now,' answered

look into the

*

bent

The

'and

mark.

I have

south

wind.

blood

freely for

with

his

gold
May
*

king

May

the

an

yonder, may

and
to

king

and

of the

desert

he

and

each

I would

fended
de-

before
out

rewarded

has

its

javelins

life,poured

my
me

it

ever

!'

gods, a

star

be

be filled !

soon

the

in

King

blood

it I tied

deadly oath,
be

but

that

avenged

ere

he

be it

awards.

!'

ever

throne

empty

Assarac,

death, that

or

live for

among

dead,

Great

bow,

missed

arrows

repeated his
in the

When

gushing

I drew
score

by
the

and

that

shieldven.
of hea-

for

him

up

saw

my

boy

his

from
did

mouth

obeisance

string from

of knots,
the

host

waiting

nostrils,I prostrated myself

the

the

shield, and

observed

enough,'

live for

god

fall stark

seldom

my
and

lord,

been

royal hand.'

the

If

one

inquiring

an

string had

under

sands

stripes,honours

bearer,

that

but

Ninus

waged

my

is lavish

or

but

King's service/was

sped

the

as

I have

own

*He

with

body, when

my

flying thick

were

it

covered

with

I took

in the Great

shaft

him

perceivethat

Assarac

which

from
time

to

other's face.

bow

many

reply;

great study

no

swearing

splendour

twentieth

was

my

with

of Nisroch

undone.

CKUEL

and, lo, a priestof

but

however,

no

"

of blood

on

Such

escape

youth,whom

only

two

he

as

mercy
with

Come

teeth

me,'

ascended

the

on

sacrifice

poured

god.
within
strewed

the
in

roof
to

wall

cedar-house,and

to

boy

the

temple,

Great

they drew

from

profusion
which

bundles
over

that

the

Assarac

of

the

light-

flightcould

my

by the

several

drops

hand,

afforded

take
over-

!'
and

of

carved

Talar

or

cedar-

at

fall
night-

where

offered, and

be

like

high -priest's
reply;

the

of the

person

Here

cruel

spiral staircase

was

in

out

shield-bearer's

the

arrow's

polishedwood-work, leading
chamber

!'

was

showed

was

be

must

as

an

voice,

there

stayed the

as

! Such

! Such

whispered

mercy

hearth

burning

he

no

"

rounded
His

hissing
single syllables,

wavering

deadly bow

the

there is

me

face.

other, and

clenched

in

came

eunuch's

while

escape

his

Between

'

tells

terrible smile

each

understand

wavering

footed

firm

remained

*We

answer

skin

of the

outlines
jfleshy

sunrise

every

counts, and

Baal

its sallow

Beneath

no

with

knot

left !'

one

the

229

GRA^'E.

THE

loosed

tlien I have

Since

AS

and

drink-offerings
King
a

to

syrian
his As-

store-chamber

reeds, which

wooden

floor

they
of the

sprinkledassiduously

230

SAKCHEDON.

with

certain

Every precaution
another

hideous

will

ancestor

Ashur

of his

chariot

not

fire,and

of

with

overcome

to

help

the
It is

him

for

saturated

sleep,escape

in

should
if he

Bang,

shield-bearer

his master,' continued

approaches the king

his white

and

of his

faithful

if it be the

But

Great

the

be

by yonder

will lie in

wait

down.'

him

curls

and

'

thus

the

must

His

Sargon nodded,

hidden

kept

taken,' obserred

descend

reeds

wine

staircase.

narrow

there

had

smile.
to

these

the flame, then

be

must

priestwith

catch

phial he

his gown.

beneath
'

fluid from

teeth

tween
be-

gleamed

jettybeard.
thus

who

servant

the

priest.

in his

sacred

'

risks
When

life with

subject

office,the punishment

is death.'

repeatedSargon,

'Death!'
the
a

of his

haft

and

two-edged sword,

his

while

stole to

hand
he

burst

into

mocking laugh.

strolled
the

bore
the

through

temple
her

left

meantime,

Semiramis

with

nearer

the

long

corridors

her
and

wavering steps,and
and

nearer

the

its entrance

stood

chamber

Sarchedon

painted gallery,where

Opposite

to

an

devices,

own

loftyhalls
slow,

that

at the
was

end

of

yet
of

lodged.

eagle-headedfigureof

with

Nisroch,

prisoner'seyes
time

the

by

and

beak

for deliyerance

priests,longed
the

gazing, it
he

marked

raiment

like

god

; and

of his

illusive creation

some

intentional

no

the

to

queen,

feminine
and

at her

pliancy of

tempered

presence

with

feet, leaning towards

the

palm-tree

she

as

very

blood,

bends

ciently
suffi-

reserve

loved.

the

it with

haps
Per-

ful
grate-

so

certain

on

with

or

yet

she

man

face

fancy.

was

eyes

were

been

have

the

he

nature

of

shining

covering his

tenderly do^-n

looked

Semiramis
form

to be

surprisethat

prostratedhimself

excited

own

daring

Thus

under

whether

could
flattery

whose

in the

restraint

doubt

plore
ex-

secret

town.

of real flesh and

woman

he

forbear

not

might

figure and
from

while

in honest

hands

to face with

vision

edges,

some

of

start

beautiful

could

feet, he

his

assumed

no

queen's

of the

her

with

the
emerge

shadow
at

with

was

lapse of

he

the

gain

to

the

carelessness

for himself

find

which

through

passage

the

in

for darkness, that

and

temple

this the

its burnished

fading sunlight on

and, looking only

of the

watched

he

On

gold.

of

wings

fixed,as

were

231

GRAVE.

THE

AS

CRUEL

the

in the

kneeling
graceful
evening

breeze.
'

on

RLse, Sarchedon,'

every

syllableof

she

his

whispered,dwelling fondly

name

as

it

passed her

trem-

232

SARCHEDON.

bling lips;

this

'

is

Know

form.

unmeaning

dawn

to-morrow's

with

burning

woman

he looked

in the

up

his

Meeting
She

laid her
that

to draw

like

shook

have

'I

breath.

share

the

leaf

of the

sank

Was

the

But

great

while

sky.
into

with

record

fire.

hand,

tamarisk-

sionate
pas-

eyes

the

shoulder

sceptre,to

the

crime

you,'

save

lower

I not

your

of the

and

who

East

"

she

ture
gesfirm

so

doom,

her

in

tree

throb
voice
the

of her
for the

lowest

let you

I cannot
his

of the

Great

in

her

Do

die !'

Could

senses.

failing

ofi'ence ?

of your

cause

calmly

this
half

be
the

had

ruled

this

panting, trembling, eager

beating

so

!'

bearing
It

was

with

hard

declaration,that

servants, and

Queen

and

heart ?

conventional

of her

continued
with

lower

changing colour, mood,

woman,

every

to

royal lady

nations

hand

his

kindled

own

caress.

scarcelybelieved

He

was

for another

veil the

not

from

his

on

grasp

come

that

voice

find

to

to die

are

gardens.

own

not

blazed

hand

almost

heart, could

glances, her

bow,

love

fairest face beneath

white

was

that you

prospect,even

that

admiration

and

empty homage

not

you

his

at

for

hideous

that

Even

time

no

to

'he

his life lay in the

AS

CRUEL

Your

life be

mine, what

indeed
take

shall

you
I

life,Sarchedon,'

all alone.

am

her

in

kindled
to

none

burn

to

queen,

touching,

those

royal robes

had

Never

smile

now

as

on

the

ere

something

towards
must

have

to

of state

Her

fallen.

on

fond.

so

the beautiful

manly

every
her

answer

appeal, so
The

disordered

and

have

might
of

very

looks

turned

danger

duty

or

exclaiming,
"

to

live and

from

inmost
lithe

Ninus, perhaps
of her

husband

the

in his

as

on

and

earth

on

bestowed

impulsive warrior,

him,

counsel,

die

!'

beamed

unsaid.

words

him,

temples

desire

she

Menon,

on

looked

to forbear

him

one

fire

with
to

none

consideration

no

queen's feet

at the

even

but

I have

beside
rose

flushed

caused

have

could

He

to his feet.

cooler brain, and

be

to love ?'

bewildering, and

of her

contrast

with

heart, having

again

would

heaven

in

own

nature

so

Who

See,

and

gift;

forsooth

Ashtaroth

standing
of his

instinct

free

If your

'

I desire ?

can

like

sprung

woman

murmured.

more

queen,

cherish, none

had

He

she

It is

it back.

233

GRAVE.

THE

and

eyes
who

had

heart
and

youth,

perfume

such

lips and

brow

scarcelyspoken

bade

him

wish

his

shapely figureswayed

if,but for his outstretched

The

never

arms,

of her hair surrounded

it

234

SARCHEDON.

her

cheek,
his

ear,

Nay,

in

more,

shall

started

Ninus

Following the

as

of the

dark

by
the

secret

which

interview

thus

to

readiness, indeed,

that

knew

And

it

weapon,
queen
'

was

too

would
laid her

It is not

armed

from

eye

him

sprung

time,' she

turning
re-

on

said

was

oriental
pression
ex-

an

his

heart

identified

him.

but

had

at the

enough

it

assumed
in

Sarchedon, though

firm

reeds

With

stolidity
;

late.

cognised
re-

Sargon,

told

countenance

queen's

hand,

figure he

unwillinglyinterrupted an

witnessed.

have

marble.

panneling

strewing

have
his

the

and

so

Sarchedon

gaze,

the very

from

instincts

of unconscious

he

stony

own

his

dangerous

very

changed

shield-bearer.

passage

above, had

floor

face

of the

those
a

of her

it were,

beheld, emerging,

as

gaping

impassive rigidityof

cold

pedestal,

the

from

ghost

scarcely have

direction

chamber,

his

bodily from

like

could

the

to

heart !

her

at

'

up

floor, Semiramis

suddenly

but

mured,
mur-

"

descended

Nisroch

Had

syllablesshe

feet, Sarchedon,

you

his

on

was

palm's-hreadth from

hroken

gasping

her

at

hreath

her

senses;

lips scarce

sweet

while

Not

'

or

his

intoxicated

and

without

intruder, but
now,

in accents

on

so

his

the

arm.

unmoved,

CHAPTEE

THE

His

queen's

Great

apprehension

he

army,

the

and

which

is

and

less

who

had

warrior

famous

again

perhaps

There

again.

adventure
"

that

to

military
a

wan

feeble

and

captains

and

there

be

can

glory,

no

and

as

by

led

which

before

light.

despotic
jealousy,

leader

as

there

than

ger,
dan-

small,

other

fame

between

can

that

as

privation,

however

of

as

victory

to

close

so

in

rian
AssyNinus,

to

armies

all

But

the

soul,

bond

no

share,

in

from

monarch

companionship

by

drawn

is

received

veterans

body

retiring

considerable

had

other

devoted,

was

Arbaces,
with

he

order

brooked

that

and

tbe

of

signet

matter

reflected

many

him

reverencing

delay

the

Like

tlie

by
a

presence,

on

Semiramis.

was

nor

royal

CUP.

backed

himself,

hesitation

the

from

DIVINING

command,

Bang

neither

XVII.

his

whose

be

in

pales
tried

authority
no

cavil

at

DIVINING

THE

mutual

and

the

exists

liis command,

the

wild

hroad-fronted

of

community

reciprocalconfidence

huntsman,

237

CUP.

deer

in

of hounds

the

of the

master-stag

of bearded

score

shook

his head

to his

duty

'

To

even

marched

the

shed

Great

the

only

to the

open

foe

safety of the

obey.

at

steed,

perplexityas

own

and

as

Babylon

thus

"

the

on

at

which
to

field,on

myself,that

the

glory of

set

is it

right?

Great

King

Yet

will

place ourselves,

hands

in

company
Is it wise
?

I make

It
one

is

of

mercy

legianc
professes al-

crime, though

secret

in

the veterans

for the

of blood

drop

has

well-found

in the

eye

depend

notice,'

host, which

campaign

his

queen

hour's

an

tried

gilded army,

girlsto
"

and

his

of such

Beladon, craftyintriguerswho

no

like

tremble

that

defenceless,in

and

from

'

leave

to

"

that

shrink

must

his last

and

the

palace,while

beside

doubt

walls

I could

ELing

Assarac

an

under

priestsand

weakened

the

successful

of whom

he would

his

in, triumphant

Ninus, trained
man

with

present crisis.

warrior,

detail,from

every

as

old

their

herd.

paced

grievous

without

the

now

every
of

in

in the

move

thought

retainers

with

mountain

Arbaces, riding slowly towards

a

interests,the

?
on

would
would

they
array

men

against

Is it for the
my

effort to

head.
save

I
him

238

SARCHEDON.

himself,

from

-svrath while

haces

he

as

came

them

the utmost

rode

off at

to

to

this

to

the

meet

his

in

me

conclusion, Ar-

captains of

his

at

the

dwelling

own

and, turning his horse,

promptitude

towards

the

speed

consume

face to face.'

him

dispatched messengers

host, summoning
with

with

speak

rein

Drawing

he

though

even

of the

palace

Great

King.
he

As

his

fair,his golden

and

erect

heard

long

looked
and

Tvith

captain,the right hand

Stalwart

jars
"

gourds

heard

than

of his

splendour, his

eye

an

warrior, the noted

at

the

beautiful

between

sittingamongst

their

side

very

street

scraping

his

self.
him-

of Ninus

staggering

himself

achievements,

him

in the sun,

many

counsellor

fruit-sellers

booths

grudged

wind,

successful
and

leper,grovelling and
had

the

water-carriers

tawny

under

gleaming

glances of respect, admiration,

the

regard for

streets, sitting

wide

armour

in

waving

him

after

even

their

the

gallopedthrough

envied

his

daughter,

the

in

and

horses,

the

"

dust,
rather

wealth,

and

his

his

warlike

fame.
How
every

could

stride

they

of his

tell he

was

good steed,

loyalty to

the

riskingall
from

grim

old

these

sense

of

monarch,

with
questioning
un-

who

DIVINING

THE

Ninus

the

in

soldier

meanest

turned

the

on

Xinus

to the

and

the

by

flinginghis

captain of

swiftlythrough
he reached

the

privacy.

Two

guards
looks

of his

of

stalwart

to the

buckler

Ninus
of battle

the

welcome,

It

presence

of

feet,and

gleamed

in his

eyes.

as

can

exclaimed,

he

the

sound

chariots
be

no

of
and

gate,

fenced
Great
once

my

trumpets
horsemen

light matter,

strode
till

entrance,
him

chief

lowered

by

corridors

for

the

of the

to his

charge with
line !

breach

held

the

way

while

awe,

olden

old monarch's

at

spearmen

sprang

Welcome,'

the

of the

though leaping with

headlong into

and

be

to

at

selection, made

wonder

the

ment,
announce-

no

shining

chamber

summer

own

desperate as
raised

rein

and

halls

vast

but

fence
capitalof-

of

for

duty

on

judgment

of Shinar.

land

horse's

thousand

ten

custom

waited

Nevertheless, Arbaces
but

palace was

of the

laws

the

by

subjects;

of his

the

by royal decree, by

of

seat

lowest
the

in

Xinus

on

the

on

accosted

be

to

was

camp

willingear

intrude

time,

entering his

for

spot

unrequired ?

presence

to

to death

him

might put

239

CUP.

with

captain,
point and

city,dashed
King.

again

the

light

trusty servant
that

bids

along
by

the

!
"

Assyria

the

whole

beard

of

240

SAKCHEDON.

hand

your
the

the

inaction

drowsy
force
a

0, I

than

rather
like

least

at

of

shaft

himself

secure

his

him

dreaded

the

old

seemed

no

he

game
he

was

his

firmly, but
speak

not

masters;

lord

his

well, and
man

speak

as

aimless,

tened
has-

consequences

extended

it

that
but

to

he

learn
of

the

face

to

that

core

while

live
to

cause
only be-

was

the

to

of slaves

warrior

Belus,

recommencement

'

lowest

and

disappointment

steadilyin

the

of

hand

own

respectfully, 0 king,
as

better

corded
invariably ac-

king

for

brave

worst

the

excuse

so

the

was

warrior's

loved

had

tower

pardon

whom

shake

royal sceptre, and

of the

sovereignty with

of

looked

hold

me

alternative,Arbaces

against

for

emblem

the

the

shall

bow-string !'

wet

indiscretion; for
to

there

by
take

to

the

from

thus, quivering

from

reassured

Little

thus

here

flown

random

air

you

at

of this
that

Bid
or

fiance?
de-

madness

something

again,

once

us

swarming

war-chariot.

the

into

leaped

have

it is

me

and

shield

under

spear

Tell

Is

it, man.
sent

to

weary

weary,

saddle

to

me

am

with

out

of Philistia

rebels

Reach

presence.

Armenia

Hath

revolt ?

Are

gate

sceptre, and

the

to

city in

the

into my

brings you thus

that

Ashur,

he

for

the

warrior,

ever

he
said
!

highest of
as

man

to

THE

Arbaces

man.

effect

the

to

his

over

blade.

tells

the other

had

burst

without

You

such

look

weary

been

true

of my

friend, old comrade,

tighten

never

an

Never,' he

belt, the handle

old master.

in

of

presence

one

thing
some-

draw

nor

him,

practisedwarrior,

sacked, foes slain,and

captives

quiver of sympathy, a

throb

Slave

fierce and

filled with

unmanned

The

proofagainst this

not

in his stern

kinder

have

'

into tears.

towns

seen

pity,was

unaccustomed

as

he

he

than

sentiment

weakness

besides

slave

u-responsibledespot, his

painful,piteous sympathy

and

the

of

mood

reallywas,

that

wept.

king'sharsh laugh,covering,it

The

kindi-ed

again.'

flayed alive

heart

face.

of my

I shall

me

Arbaces
who

buckle

expected.
the

servant, old

Old

whose

again, while

old

gray

the

as

me

in the field/

king, on

been

repeated,sittingdown
crept

deceived

ever

manly bearing produced

have

might

as

has

if he

failed him

other's

spiritthe

241

CUP.

Ninus

exclaimed

Never!'

asks

council,or

in

him

DIVINING

derision,and

cough

of age,

may

hoarse

be, some
with

other

recalled him

to

himself.
'

but

Go, get
for that

VOL.

I.

spindle!' exclaimed

rugged

face

and

Ninus.

'

Surely,

grizzledbeard,
R

had

242

SAKCHEDON.

believed

it

with
of the

was

wet

of

himself, whom
and

for her

pray

rather

Arbaces,

have

standing at

woman

to

eyes

clutches

anger,

old

an

seen

many

but
pei-plexity,

son's

rekase

than

the

time

in

never

stool
foot-

my

Tartan

in

sorrow

out

haste,
in

nor

fear.'
The
but
in

other's

he

had

his

would

duty

lord's

Assuming

the chief
'

Is

lowest

answered

waste

roch

the

usual

his

and

about

level of

settingof

thus

humility,

while

the

the

night-watches

Well,

day

of

'

This

is

the

and

good

day

of

Thou

too

say

on.'

wine.

day

of

Day

Nis-

May

of battle !
"

follyrather^and
must

battle ?'

drink-offering,

and

sacrifice

all to ashes

Nimrod,

the

with

do

to

prophets,

shame
it.

end.

report concerning the

king testily.

them
of

displeasure,

respect, and

of

proper

makes

of time, treasure,

beard

exultation

of battle ?'

the

consume

to the

out

pride ;

meekly,

host, and

have

and

of his

attitude

servants

the

"VMiat

priests

the

to

neither

dread

carrying it

and

joy

king's pleasure to hearken,

of his

day

with

perform, and

his

it were,

it the

in the
^

to

captain demanded

ordering of
as

brightened

approval, nor

prevent

dropping,as

face

needs

come

by

ness
weari-

ing
prat-

244

SARCHEDON.

proof

of

spare

him

all incitement
for

exact

proof of

his

his

trust

avowedly
have
the

her

at

kingdom

sonal
per-

who

those

to

he

disposal. Well,

own

opportunitiesto please

more

many

were

might

not

her.

Let

queen's fancy be indulged unquestioned,and

commands

kindliness

heart

sink

to

foreshadowing
the

subject

and

each,

that

as

sore

it
and

fierce

chief

captain's

the

usual

the

presence,
the

neither

vague

felt before.

As

tion
prostraof

eyes

the

moment,

same

to fall like ice

seemed

and

depression, a

after

At

rough

on

should

the

heart

look

in

of
the

again.

Wearily
his

manner

never

king's

met.

henceforth

other's face

towards

his

servant

thought

had

his head

raised

same

of

sense

yet

was

the

caused

of evil he

leaving

on

master

with

haughty

the

that

tones,

peremptory

there

his wont,

underlying

it

Arbaces, rudely enough

dismissed

he

be, according to

may

her

obeyed.

While

his

confiding his

thus

in

drawing
with-

thus

by

occupation, would

favourite

time

safety and

exertion

to

would

She

affection.

and

confidence

her

and

slowly the

home,

seemed,
saddened

the

good

chief
horse

in his rider's

captain paced
under

him

discomfiture.

back

ing,
partakIt

was

heart, contrastingpainfullywith

DinXING

THE

elation

his
so

beneath

proudly

however,

So

daughter.

and

long

to her

it seemed

of

its

walls,

there

father

tranquilhappiness
*

thought

and

his

But

relieved

the

summon

prostrated

dismounted

he

while

successive

light in

his

roof,

and

rest

evil

the

ing,
dwell-

court.'

had

he

of the

to

be

sent

to

host.

before

"With

the

Tartan

tidings,which

only

of

turn

destined

whom

himself

arrived

in the

not

were

came

messenger

of his

Oriental

fountain

of those

return

had,

presence
under

his

principal captains

first who

the

garden,

apprehensions

by the

He

still peace

is like

'

the

the

rode

carried

now

palace.

was

with

expression,

lilyin

he

at home.

he,

girl,'said

The

his

remained

she

as

he

that

left in

consolation

one

when

triumph,

day

lofty portals of

the

through

the

on

245

CUP.

each

aggravate and

to

confirm.

Ispabara, chief
and

leader

command

that

of
and

through
another

repute,
cast

hitherto

of the

into

had

been

prison.

acknowledged
the

Scarcely

digestedwhen
appeared

to say

his
to

great gate

captain.

spearmen,

was

tried

removed
Even

warrior

from

now

the

authority was
quit

the

this

second

town

force

ing
defilunder

nouncement
startling an-

breathless

that Sabacon, the

his

ner
run-

captain of the

246

SARCHEDON.

chariots, had
of the

the

whole

already

massed

in

Belasys

and

Meantime,

the

hastilyto

had

Queen, and

Great

were

summoned

been

of the

strength
the

heard

been

since

not

presence

of iron

chariots
the

plain by

of.

Well

of

Palms.
What

'

of

Arbaces

while
the

third

ground
Let

reply.
in

are

them
and

of Nineveh

them

the

their

look

move,

wind

by
the

not

and

escaped alive

!'

orders
lord

my

to

the

by companies
The

city.

were

the

horsemen

blue

mantles

scattered
of the
rode

men

like
Great

through

ranks, piercing,hewing, trampling

cut

say

their

they encamped

last

none

when

of Baal.

score

of

out

The

of that

Men

of Nineveh

women

their walls in vain, for

from

I think

to

bowmen

received

of the

gates

to

deprecating

The

signet

them

sparing

been

temple

the

claimed
ex-

perplexity,

the

was

has

Taracus

! how

and

had

by

the

Dagon

down

but

'

report.

found.

be

laid his forehead

wroth,'

marched

refused

through

and

concern

cannot

different

before

Queen.

be

under

has

the

through

and

lord

my

bowmen

his ill-omened

made

confusion,

king,

chaff

he

'Belasys

command

deep

trusty

light-footedyouth

ere

not

in

his

by

the Thirteen

northern

band

can

strings
bow-

night
shall

Gods
have

DmNING

THE

And

air this
into

turning
It

contrived
It

his house

obvious

was

needed

by

an

for all purposes

speculations;

the

carry it out, he

not

could

had

signet
and

with

was

mercy

been

she would
for

the

use

the

employed

fear.

her

with

miration
of ad-

she

destruction

the

That
the

great Assyrian empire,

power

to

royal

place the cityof Babylon,

to

apparent; but

too

vague

sentiment

with

on

employed

it the

had

repress

devolved

organise
dis-

useless

but

form

she

considerably dashed

authority which

mind
re-

offence.

or

means

could

be

leaders, would

of resistance

for

imminent.

scattered,while

thus

of

been

experienceto

warlike

queen's object he

the

Of

heart.

catastrophe was

army

change

Arbaces,

deadly plot had

little of his

that

heavy

some

fearful

but

him

with

that

some

"

muttered
feast-day,'

the

on

247

CUP.

he
thus

of her

hesitated
owed

to

husband

at

her

to believe

his
and

tion,
affec-

her

king.
Arbaces
to

which

made

of energy

man

peril,fertile
be

met.

fatalist.

organised

old master,

sudden

it should
and

have

was

some

some

But
It is

scheme

and

in

the

he

was

action, accustomed
resources

also

possible that
for

the

effort to avert

by

tious
superstihe

might

defence

of his

the storm

that

248

SARCHEDON.

gathering

was

for

of those

one

has

empire

an

sometimes
and

he

and

her

restoringdraught

The

in

The

her

with

red.

feet.

for

wine
had

most
al-

been

ward
joyfullyfor-

bringing him

the

carved,
beautifully

cup,

precious stones.
free and

buoyant ;

radiant

in the

child

her

bearing

lightthat

of earth

with

stream

of

once

ray

the

crossed

Suddenly
cup,

she

turned

shining

pale

'

do

floor

stopped, and

and

robe

drink.

not

neath
be-

looking

pale even

"

evening tinginghands

said,

crimson

in that
and

It

hair

looks

!'

set

with
*

the
of

like blood

eyes

beams

0, father !' she

He

called

wants,

golden

fate of

to turn.

Ishtar, who

setting,and

was

wildlyinto
glow

the

heaven.

sun

rich

his

been

it not

arrival,sprang

glorifiesevery

its level

'

face

sweet

direct from

from

in

girl'sstep was

lifetime

to

set with

joyous, her

known

saddle.

father's

ministered

chased, and

been

had

which

on

perplexed, he

left the

watching for

royal head,

triflingevents

Exhausted
as

the

over

the wine

down

untasted, and

covered

his

his hands.

Enough!'

against Nisroch,

he
or

muttered.
flee from

him

Who

who

shall
hath

strive

the four

THE

winds

of heaven

have

spoken,
Then

fear;
who

he

should
the

head,

beloved

ewe

lamb

By

great trembling and

he

Great

the

"

wondered

daughter, and
was

the

King,

child

His

gone.

nothing compared

as

to the

own

of the

fate

of his bosom

of his

divining cup

unwittingly been
he

would
or

safetyof
the

"

one

been

have

question

his

give

to

loath

as

father's

make

which

from

race

about

giftof prophecy,or

believed

him

to

to defile his

honour,
the

light of

fate,would

for her
her

hideous
He

sea

there

remonstrate

behold

of that

as

to

ing
warn-

And

of blood

with
or

maiden,

any

crisis of

at

evil which

or

what
to

in

had

her

she

mirror,

the

future

seen

obvious

now

dismay,

?
a

her
a

pure

reflected,as

good

confession,

dismissed

kindly, yet

mysterious vessel

in store.

own

that

firmly enough

this

into

presentiment

held

the

Stars

proclaimed.

looking

when

tomb,

its

He

her

protect her

being

had

father's

it

his

the

drink, and

doubt

on

of

Seven

of his fold !

was

Ishtar

looked

The

I'

him

on

249

CUP.

wings

it is well
came

life

that

It

and

seemed

empire,

his

for

there

for

DIYIXrS'G

stern

from

his

sorrow

disobey. Then,

presence

that
alone

forbade
at

gently,
her

to

last,in the

250

SARCHEDON.

hall

his

of

hem

with

hem

to

down

stately palace,

on

paroxysm
Above

the

bare

of

horror

him,

coming

night,

the

wall

proud,

in

his

the

the

misery
lustre

to

"

the

it would

of

Babylon

his

figure,

seem,

the

sat

in

peace

in

plated,

rent

and

image

on

speed

at

out

came

radiant
"

likeness

bow

garments,

stars

and

shadows

driving

"

original
and

the

the

slain.

of

round

benignant,

Great.

and

unmanned,

sculptured

own

field

with

And

in

from

anguish,

imposing

helmed

dust.

mellow,

as

and

over

conqueror

mantle

despair.

gathered

prostrate

"

of

cry

erect, triumphant

darkness

fierce

and

loomed

war-chariot

So

his

rent

floor, unnerved,

grand

of

"

great

he

in

smiling

good-will

on

hand

bowed
in

the

in

golden
down,

sleep

252

SARCHEDON.

deity,and
unveiled

with

their

of every
every

of

tree

it
tj'pical,

"

in Eden

stood

'

would

wise

one

live

for

in

expiation and
to be

was

love

fathom,

the

and

"

which

buried

dure,
ver-

and

by

seem

he

which

the

which

must

yet

another

the

Great

of
his

describe,nor

eat

have

to

Sacrifice
sense

long

desired

to be

seems

ages,

their

garden, good

tree

the Great

pity,that

his words

nor

of the

of which

suffering,on

offered

of that

be,

eyes, and

and

vsdthin

it would

midst

that

;' or

ever,

far back
of

the

leaf of

of
perennialvitality

may

in the

food, pleasantto

to make

and

sion
posses-

comprehensive worship

heaven, figured as

blossoms

taken

spot, both

their

walls, for

the countless

for

unison

grotesque

boast

might

wooded

and

green

host

sacred

in

too, had

grove,
that

eminence

the

of the

ago

of the

prophets

without

hair and

beating their breasts,

seen

dancing

even

arms,

dishevelled

mystic transports of the priests.

the
The

be

faces, might

waving

with

of women,

troops

who
mised,
protree

fice
Sacri-

of immeasurable
cannot

man

heart

narrow

conceive.
In

all

idolatry,in

however
faint

reflection

foul

and

of that

the

darkness

of every

debasing, is
true

dawn

brighten into perfectday

there

which

tion,
superstinot

shall

some

after
here-

the

crowds

streets

of the

city,carried

agape

for

proud

dark

Amongst
the

main

and

enthusiasm,
be

seen

be

and

Their

fatal blow.

Great

the

devoted

open

to the

empire
less

possessed by

Assyria,was
rancour,

looks

curled

strike

which,

army

itself the

to

at her

interest

title of

its orders

especialservice,
or

person,

rather

king.

Assarac
such

of human

to foresee

than

nature

that

forces, as

respectivelythe

such

had

armies

now

of

tinction
distitled
en-

Egypt

likelyto produce feelingsof jealousy

ready

stars, had

her

fidence
self-con-

stern

that

the

protect the empire during

knowledge

two

may

right time

to

and

of

to be

the

or

at

hostility. The

of the

the

moment

assumed

primarilyto

themselves

and

to

bide

to

any

Semiramis,

between

and

black

to take
Queen's host, affecting

It needed
was

excitement, might

impress of quiet daring

temper

had

campaign,

directlyfrom

than

at

in

by present

away

face, with

same

left at home

having been

the

swayed

seethingshiftingthrong.

haughty

disclosed

last

surged and

fresh

resolve,satisfied

prompt

patiently,yet ready

and

the

the

all bore

faces

the

that

hair, looking calmly, triumphantly,it

scornfully,on

even

These

many

and

beard

253

SPIKIT.

LYING

not

any

moment

to

break

eunuch, despite attentive

failed to

read

that

book

out

in

study
dili-

254

SARCHEDON.

gently

sealed

day,
its

which

closes

those

who

would

from

the

records
less

thoughts
and

by

than

their

that
the

over

the

timely

the

deeds

interests.
of

queen's host,

It

been

have
caused

to

in

the

tunnel

had

He

for every

the

noble

prey

awaited

he

the

neglected
emergency;

multitude,

set his

had

the result.

of

Assyria,

the

city,by
tary
mili-

whose

had

the

might

seized, and

principal gates
its stream,

palaces

had

maddened
snares

determined

of the

in the
to

king and
had

corrupted one
the

even

afforded

precaution ;

no

cations
avo-

character

great river, which

the

disorganisedanother,

scattered

one

that dammed

between

communication
queen.

he

unmanly,

sluices

under

in

his

as

securely guarded,

city,the

of the

their

King's signet. With

unwarlike,

be

men's

from

that

concentrated

Great

thought

future

inclinations,

been

and

for

through his

was

had

Egypt

the

rather

decision, unexpected perhaps

seemed

anticipate

to

judged

their

than
conduct

future

army

of the

He

past.

surrounding country,

use

is fain

probabilitiesof

the

their

passing

every

standing fairly open

the

of

their

advice

or

learn

calculated

passions

but

chapters,

coming

with

page

curiositythat

the

to

every

vided
proarmy,

priests,inflamed
very

destroy;

path
and

of the

calmly

LYING

Beladon

looked

of

It

seemed

an

empire depended, whose

neophyte

his

calm,

to

see

to

to fill the

king's cup,

himself

in Kalmim's

sun

in the

less interested
than
that

Nay,
of

the

was

between

space

his way

from

'What

under

the

the

shadow

by

such

to

the

to

pass

of its

and

fro, from
the

heats

careless
life

in

recreation
have

was

seemed

did

while

he

crossed

and

the

sacred

night.

'

The

prince's apartments

to

the

from

as

w^ere

queen

blood

still

King

exposed
had

tans

yet
his

covers

hurrying

hall to

met

observed,

hours

many

Great

the

desert

priest,as they

not

palace to temple, from

open

prince.

up

; the

Southern

the

building,and

graduated steps

all.

royal palace, on

of the

the

ward
for-

slightair

some

coming

of

origin

wear

temple

cloud

and

mover

cup-bearer to

her

the

could

of

might

mighty preparations going

feet in his summer-chamber

face

chief

eyes,

scorching glare,that
before

fate

business

only

art.

supporters,

Not

his

as

brow

of the

the

of all his

whose

the apartments

is this

?' said

now

ruin

prime

his

his

slightesthesitation

thoughtlessyouth

perplexityon

admiration

whom

on

unmoved.

pleasure-seekingSethos,
was

one

the

own

confident, so

so

the

with

chief

grand professor of

some

strange

with

involve
so

for

his

on

255

SPIRIT.

her fair
to

and

gallery,from

royaljudgment-seat.

256

SARCHEDON.

Kalmin

keeps silence, which

shaking

her

say

his

to

friend,

never

wish

and

thirst

and

^ATiat

does
the

By

than

she

signs

and

with

ride

me

as

him
would

man

and

athirst

are

water-jar.

an

I pray
I

it all mean,

say?

light of Ashtaroth,

desert

suffocation

and

bids

melon

travel the

to

of these

marvel,

more

heat,
stifling

forsooth

desert

The

drink."

and

eat

knew

midst

and

itself

in

Brother, you

"

is

Here

hungered.
\'0U

sends

in this

desert

the

the

in

Ninyas

wonders,

if she

as

tell ; while

would

into

head,

is

that

of

toil

the

again, after

endless

paign
cam-

!'
The

'

prince

the

speak plain,in

he,

'

lion

smile

of

when

your

the

for either
may

is

of

eyes

Ishtar,

or

to

risingmoon.'

or

be

up

is

I doubt

one

he

It is not
I

puts

on,

with

him,

can

and

the

tell you,
he

begins

face.'

which

but

daylight either.

or

comes

in the

pleasant companion,' said

no

woman

horse

know

priest;

night

fair

you

*I

light of

bay

at

by moonlight

to look

the

doubt,'

lion, no

pondered.

Sethos
*A

under

'

Beladon,

answered

the

hunt

to

means

dangerous,' replied the

if Ninyas feels

other.
prey

most

wise

Nevertheless,

before

dawn

; and

the

man's
hunter

the child

fear
at

that

LYING

cries to its mother

it wake

the

You

'

for the

in

answered
parables,'

the

during

heat

at least

and

have

pacifiedere

too

much

I cannot
in

priests.

palace for to-night,

of the

the Great

Sethos, yawning,

day

I believe

free

am

with

done

of the

do

interpretparables,nor
Well,

be

must

moon

household.'

speak

and

257

SPIEIT.

till to-morrow

King

at

dawn.'
'Till

adding,
*

'

in

lion

to do

then

He

the

heart,'was
the
no

desert

by

will

He

bay, Sethos,

what

is the

?'
an

with

through

arrow
'

nothing
the

unless

he

the wild-beast's

likes

to

lion

if you

sleep in
There

but his bones.

on

is

slay not liim,he

the

you

are

not

speak with
if the

VOL.

'

It is

wise

I love you
over-wise
you

I.

be

not

wroth

your

nor

would

best

in

with

I think, because
well, partly,

thoughtful,and

man

freely,not stopping to pick his

plain truth
ride

other

saying,though spoken

king's cup-bearer. Nay,

Hethos.

advice

surely slay you,'repeated the

tone.

same

me,

as

to

surelyslayyou.*
'

the

banter

light yet meaning

reply,

with

compromise

will

of

turns

drive

must

other,

dawn,' repeated the

at

tone

the

When

hunter

to-morrow

burn

horse

his

lips.

to-day,and

may

words

Take

water
s

my
him

258

SARCHEDON.

freelybefore
from

mount.

you

hunting, turn

into

"VMiere

When

Ninyas

desert

and

the

comes

back

gallop for

your

life.'
'

natural

the

by

Waters,

'

might

the

added

safest

reach

Yalley

it well

but back

all.

and

If you

the

Bitter

enough.'

King's draught

Great

the

cup-bearer,revertingto

the

some

thoughtfully; 'perhaps

refuge,after

Dark

the

of

way

you

And

'

the

be

in

Sethos,

priest. Anywhere

Ascalon,' he

it would

asked

alarm.

?' repeatedthe

Babylon.

go

gallop?'

anxiety and

Where

to

must

first

?' said

sunrise

at

duty

of his

daily

life.
The

'

the

See,

'

answer.

temple.
warned
shall

we

which

reassured

hastened
he had

bred

steed

by

Do

part, for

to

ominous

so

make

to

ready

summoned

been

far to follow

loath

of the

steps

longer.

no

am

the

as

I think

again.'

meet

greatlyperplexed
so

here

prate

provided for,'was

ascends

Assarac

Farewell, I

never

Little

Sethos

must

you.

is

King's draught

Great

and

at

Ninyas, permitting

plains
the

counsel
on

good

to
as

act, he
to select

which
horse

expeditionto

prince. Though

the

loss how

his friend's

of the

for the

by

leave-taking,

to
to

decided
a

true-

accompany

drink

its fill

260

SARCHEDON.

observe

that

his

thoroughfares for
his usual
seemed
and

lord

young
their

that

infer

to

he

of all state

wished

than

thoughtful

he

followed

cup-bearer

heels, anxious, silent,and

he

warning

had

laughed

or

of

ceremony,

depart unnoticed

to

and

the

father's

subjects
a

on

young,

one

so

In

which

an

they

scarcelymove
whom

it

caused
in

trench,

and

the

not

space
about

were

in

that

The

here

by

huge

profusion
and

of

surrounded

Much
altar

his

the

of

the

from

the

all,so fair.
gate by
tude
multi-

city,the

prince'shorse

the

those

to the

animal,

excitement
of turf raised

the

trary,
con-

between

flowers, girt with

by

the

on

above

although

trappings of

by

gracefullyenough

and,

leave

to

prince's

descendant

sat

his

crowd, breaking

furlong

foot's pace,

of its rider.

the

royal

in

embarrassed

pressed prostratedthemselves
or

the

Ninyas,

renowned,

so

kissing the body

feet

on

been

that existed

at its thickest.

seemed

close

with

reserve

joj^ousfreedom

open

ever

sadly

jested

habitual

gods with

had

latelyreceived.

through

gay

public

unknown.

life,the

the

the most

ride, although the absence

guards, the waiving

More

selected

numerous

priests,leaping, shouting, waving

their

could

against
ground,
and

had
to

the

even

been

Baal,
usual

circle

of

arms

in

of

paroxysms

of

one

than

skin-deep.

and

wild

was

its

and

beard

piercing

naked

wildfire
He

his

waist,

chest.

and

and

to

rose

foams,

he

and

The

thick
foul

howl

long-drawn
that

the

there

more

so

tall

bleeding freely

of

black

hair

disorder,the

glitteredwith

the

light of

mingled

agony

under

the

Ninyas pawed

and

votary

was

god.
of

in scorn;

his rider smiled

and

to

open

cut, however, little

trembled, the horse

while

ing
brandish-

breast

own

together in

denoted

inspirationof

moment,

the

rolled

while

Sethos

halt

prince'sbridle,and

that

matted

eyes

triumph

swaying

to

came

knife, laid his

to

were

madness,

snorted

the

tawny sinewy

from

and

in
these, springingfrantically

too

startlingfigure,standing

lean,

in

flourish

with

It

almost

Ninyas

ourved

broad

be

of the

air,caught hold

unbridled

to

As

wholly feigned.
their midst,

excitement

an

261

SPIRIT.

LYING

the

fro, caught

whisper running
shout

of

! Baal

writhes

'

has

but the crowd,

excitement
from

of the

lip to liplike

Prophesy, prophesy !
down

come

on

him

Prophesy, prophesy!'
Another
dismal

the

gash,

wail, and

laugh,

long-drawn

unearthly figure,towering

that

rest, hovering

hideous

as

it

were

with

arms

above

extended

262

SAKCHEDON.

towards

prince,took

the

while

utterance,
restless

of

contortions
'

things

of earth

be born

of woman,

am

of the Mountains

down

on

no

forever

!" and

youth,

and

bids

fire of Baal

falls

to-morrow,
; it is writ

Then
on

his

the

steel.

fire,slain with

Baal

jet

I, to

not

man,

Abitur

and

lie,

I cannot

Baal

has

devils, and

come

hereafter
know

voice

of Baal

king, live

Baal

yet

above

sword

!"

the

; and

the

mouth,

flew

from

and

senseless,under

straining
con-

To-morrow,

It is
for

goodly

me,
"

me

take

consumes

king, live
his

this

to

ceasing,

to-morrow

hand

the

and

without

cry

points to

wear

heart

cries, "0

his

reach

my

and

face, stark

the

divorce, that they

on

foam

no

am

the

girdle to

to

me

face !

to

bill of

him

his

lain

I, behold

even

devils, and

fingerof

the

sceptre,draw

and

face

Nerig, Zachiah,

out

cast

the

and

more;

speak, but

them

will I write

I,

with

"

three

and

me,

one

"

I who

for it is not

and

scorched

Baal

with

spoken

heaven.

in

the

of the

Abitur

am

fought with Merodach, and

and

devils

three

! I

Zachiah

opened,

are

eyes

and

teeth

gleaming

fit.

am

and

Ashtaroth,

Mine

! I

coherent
raving in-

frightfuljerks, like

in

in

man

I have

Mountains

with

Nerig

am

the

worked

features

in

parable

its

up

spoke

ever

and
the

low
be-

!'
he
very

fell
feet

of

the

hoof

he

and

horse.

prince's

animal's

As

once

Ninyas

of

notes

but

had

shout

'

The

live

welcome

to

gods

cannot

ever

!'

head,

man.

the

nor

in

from

pity,

the

nor

earth.

future

standers
by-

an

The

monarch

and

depart.

to

the

through

up

the

into

the

rising

one

chorus,
!

sun,

and

Baal

city

sky

with

morning,

lie

the

terror,

dead

him

their

on

of

burden,

for

him

went

birds

one

comrades

disappeared

countless

the

his

hastening

now

more

on

in

defenceless

his

appearance

raise

bent

were

aside

on

turned

eye

to

all

of

favourite,

king,

an

stretched

looks

all

amongst

was

arm

sharp

to

neither

But

263

SPIRIT.

Swerving

struck

there

lay

LYING

their

all

thus

hath

gate,

and

like

various

these

it

voices

ran

spoken.

^s=^

XIX.

CHAPTER

THE

With

the
disk

the

last

of

caused

as

gates,

and

countless
be

perfected

and

from

Belus
the

strike.

the

Great

eager

desert, there

clang
burst

of

her

the

with

the

close

and

twinkled
the
thin

tongue
Far

bower,

beacon-fire

of

crowned
up

an

angry

serpent

street

and

expectant multitude,

flared

their

lamps

and

garden
the

the

into
reared

square,

feast

day.

that
shot

now

-we

sacred

grove,

flame

in

fire

her

all

of torches

red

below,

brazen

innumerable

terrace,
in

of

triumphant

through

and

the

such

hundred

by

god,

from

cymbals,

sacrifice

son
crim-

rose

of loud

Babylon,

their

before

balcony

gleamed

wild

its

as

sun,

given signal, thousands

this
on

like

consummated

At

while

such

palaces, that

of Baal

out

the

ring again

to

warned

sinking

into

such

trumpets,

music,

of

down

went

BAAL.

OF

of the

rays

echoing temple

bray

to

FEAST

were

white

on

tower

night,
end

to

massed

garments

THE

and

dark

fitful

faces

OF

FEAST

brought

into

while

above

perspective,loomed

long

of

glare ;

granite,with

mien,

relief under

strong
in

them,

that

grand imposing

of the

avenues

unfurled

wings

265

BAAL.

and

mighty

bulls

stately human

calm, stern, colossal, t^-pes

of

and

majesty

strength.
Not
nor

spear,
but

tower

the

palace

force

of the

would

as

in

the

the

Great

have

not

glitterof

within

while

men;

seen

nor

headpiece;

walls, swarmed

paradise that

Queen

suf"ced

bow

the

with

surrounded

arrayed

was

to sack

and

stronghold

gate, every

every

of concealment

armed

the

as

at

be

to

was

much

so

every

place

an

warrior

whole

such

cityin

hour.
dressed

Semiramis,
tiara
wine

head,

her

on

she

ere

who

the

Nimrod,

ranks

with

the

and

; while

his

Ninus,

the

especiallyto
for

and

to

queen,

royal

food

in person

for himself

hereafter

the

young
throne

mand,
com-

to

the

prince,
of

the

present seemed

to

King.

In
suit

thousand,

destined

was

Great

of

served

their

to
fidelity

swore

dynasty

royal robes, with

them

saw

down

went

captain of

every

in

all her

her

varying moods,

best;

afterwards

and

how

many

the
fierce

lovely the

bowman
queen

bered
remem-

had

looked

266

SAKCHEDON.

under

shade,

gentle hrow

her
to

the

sad
on

how

When

she

retired

which

the

dwelling
his

contains

it

But

thrills

and

her

The
Great

forbade

sex

round

He

reaching to

his

of the

sweet

gazes

casket

sacred

violet

or

that

which

she

of the

temple,
of witnessing

ceremonies

threshold

of the

emerged

Ninus

royal robes, with

the

above

royal parasol held

in

tassels

mystic
of

of silk
ters,
charac-

gold.

mantle, trailingbehind

deep,
arms

were

in
with

bare,

Over

him,

front, and
an

dered,
bor-

edging
save

at

royal

long flo^^inggarment

palm's -breadth

had

part.

very

colour, open

long gaunt

that

perhaps

to take

fringes and

robe

His

ranks

desirous

ankles, embroidered

second

gold.

wore

with

edged
a

one

who

the

direction

the

on

brows, the

his

the

her

his

in

arrayed

head.

heart

on

not

of that

i)rocessionand

the

King's palace, from

tiara

this

in

unattended,

pageant began

sundown,

his

mistress,

thing
some-

last farewell.

palace,

lover's

in the

unrecognised
in which

her

if

something

whispered

afterwards

disguised

them

seemed

pricelesspearl.

was

seen

into

with

of his

she

grace

hidding

was

its walls

clouded

individually,as

she

on

that

sorrow,

tender

man

her

longing

been

coming

warned

looked

but

with

"

of each

leave

take

of

as

of

for the

268

SA.RCHEDON.

for

When

ever.

the

with

temple,

royal visitor,there
a

sudden

light of

fire hath

tread

the

without

from

into

the

louder

people

as

if

of

harp

and

of festive

robes

of

surrounded

At

burst

by

When

shall

oxen

it

had

had

told

with

to

not

oblations,
low
mel-

the

viol,in

and

lamps, gaudy

that

him

up

over

come

and

incense

went

turned

never

apathy

tabor, lute

them

preceded

He

instinct

calmly,

fear.

Assyrian king

listless

of

reverence,

blazing

gems

white
his

priests,should

-robed

last

on

the

nation

of warriors

rior-king
war-

he

this

of

face

shining silk, bearing peaceful oiOferings,

look
ruled

King's

deepest

or

god.

some

lustre

had

in

that

the

as

odours

thus, amongst

and

Great

locusts, mine

any

his

of

dull

The

again,

sounds

than

temple

it.

his

!'

corn

his

to

'To-morrow!

quiver of pity,remorse,

rose

him

the

up

entrance

scorn.

muttered.

he

twenty

it were,

implacable threat, accepting

Shouts

mark

and

of
the

in

as

the

over

Assarac, hending low

And
heard

passed

licked

the

out

welcome,

wrath

To-morrow!'

head

the

at

priests,prostrated himself

thousand
of

Assarac,

point the cymbals

melody

clashed

chant, sweet,

in

yet

wilder

measured,

and

monotonous,
voices
had

while

breeze,

the

fire and

of their

god.

One

dressed

his

hand.

the

Israelite

had

released

depart.

held

at

from

of
as

his

how

mercy

he
!

short
of

bonds,

the

on

to

ing
even-

his

from

up

cloud

long

our
hon-

He
stafT in
in

the

large powerful

mals
ani-

interested

distance

off.

at

liberty,and
and

It

was

Assarac

Egypt, whom

appeared, by
a

in

unmoved.

pity in

and

raved

Baal

knives

on

sad

very

scorn

it

asses,

looked

He

face, and

Infinite

with

looking

land

intemperate outbreak,

Then

laid

filled the

priests of

journey, with

of the

out

roused,

naked

few

kind,

less

was

Lord,

rose

shrine

was

jellswent

attendants, much

His

of their

and

stood

if for

as

proceedings,

his

where

blood

of

themselves

cut

alone

man

was

over

practised

raised, torch

of sacrifice

smoke,

and

once,

Babylon,

streams

shrieks

writhed

there

altar

or

loud

of

thousand

worshippers, while, leaping like demons

maddened

to

part

every

victim

to

by

up

trenches, fumes

new-cut

and

in

adorned

been

fagot, steel

in

taken

was

269

BAAL.

OF

FEAST

THE

about

thoughtful ;

his

eye,

though

unusually

some

passed

of resentment

muttered,
Infinite

patience !

How

long,

long ?'
he withdrew

from

the

crowd

to

place him-

270

SAKCHEDON.

the

self in

mounted

he

ere

of

handful
the

the

of Baal, his

orderly

of the

lines

long

faced
the

each

deity

emptied

in

prostrate
directed

disk

the

in endless

terrace

tive,
perspec-

patriarchto boyhand.

his

in

turn,

it

as

To
borne

was

with

prostration clouds

every

altars, golden cups

victims

blood

spouted

as

sheep

and

under

propitiousmoment

on

"

the

god

representingthe

identifyingthat

weight

seemed

at

from

passed

burnished

the

by

were

from

fell

oxen

well-

one

blow.

Shamash

and

drawn

gratifiedthe

Terrace

and
drink-offerings,

at the

temple

were

have

must

in

the

numerous,

lotus-flower

while

of fresh

throats

his

by

they prostratedthemselves

monarch,

ascended

of smoke

so

bearded

from

of

obeisance;

followed

encircled

stretched

the

feet

ofi'his

desert.

King.

with

devout

the

Great

eunuch,

image

before

that

that

of white

votary,

every

so,

to the

area

array

from

proceeded gravely through

priests,though

military eye
the

wide

dust

and

ass;

Gate, outward

Within

in

the

countrymen,

Southern

out

an

Land, where, formally

little

shook

he

solemnly,

and

of his

centre

of which

to fail and

statue

of

sun's

light,with
dazzling

of solid

; Ishtar

face,
sur-

gold,under

its bearers, tall stalwart

labour

his

too, with

priests,
her

pale

THE

reflected

beauty,

sister

the

to

FEAST

like

Lord

OF

the

of

she

gentle
typified,

Bar

and

moon

and

Day;

271

BAAL.

pliant,representations of
human
of

intelligenceand

skill ;

his

love,

and

bright
hand.

in turn

by

to

"

with

head,

himself; Nisroch

with

from

no

the

each

and

eagle'shead,

there

escape.

superior even

to

Fate,

was

or

beetle,
bulls

other

human

heel

beauty

scales

godlike circle

mystic representationof

to

below

; and

Baal

the burnished

no

the

tiny
Des-

appeal, from

Lastly, the
some

power

some

abstract

symbolical
that

must

essence,

intelligenceinfinite,inconceivable, expressed,

vaguely enough, by
wheel

fins

in

the

award

whose

vengeance

yet be
some

than

more

fluence
in-

man,

faces, wild

flying from

or

her

minor

immutable,
all-powerful,

pinions, supreme,

and

human

of the

too, monarch

different

the

in

serpent

superior spirit

some

girdle, foul, hideous

whose

back

lion's

threatening

monsters

heel; Dagon, with

Ashur

the

and

images followed, of

scorpion, lions

the

the

on

king

Ashtaroth, spiritof beauty,

forehead

winged

fightinghead
to

her

on

Other

the

Merodach,

light,peerless,radiant, alluring,with

star

coerced

and

bow;

satile,
ver-

ment,
improve-

progress,

battles,bold, defiant, standing

bending

Nebo,

of

wings.

circle of

gold encompassing

liTti

SARCHEDON.

preceding
the

sacred

seemed

to be

in

by

all ; and

occasions
in the

carried

emblem

this

was

solemn

such

Onl}^ on

the

Ninus,

even

impatient

he

passed

was

about

the

beneath

Assarac,

royal feet

of the

emblematic,
the

water;
with

its

reverence

of such

was

his

and

respect

of the

secluded

It

king.

while

steps

he

precincts of

feminine

of the

gold, and

of

fir-cone, worked

in

the

; while

fluid

the

whole

of its

golden

metal,

same

the

fire and

fir-cone,

all nature

earth, tempering and

be

rative
gene-

seemed

vessel

which, pervading

opposite,may

influence

the

the

at

sentation
repre-

elements,

two

properties of

of that

flung down

that
assumed

casket

square

of heat

ardour

Thus

prostration,laid

another

inflammable

embracing
the

with

representing the
reproductive vitality,

suggestive

the

officiated

queen

of

lowest

the

into

it were,

as

powers

and

it, at the

ascend

to

his

gesture

he

as

mediately
im-

Talar.
Here

the

forbear

not

as

awe-struck

an

ceremonies, believingin little but

sword, could

he

well

present

honour,

when

monarch,

with

of

place

capacity of priest as
regarded

the

as

ing
allay-

considered

as

in creation.
before

Great

vicariouslythe

King

him,
in

these

his

attributes

nified
offeringssig-

present capacity
of

Ashur,

or

even

THE

Baal

himself.

now

presented a

pour

out

soon

as

hand

Assarac,

in

While

look

the. old

lion

eunuch,

whose

by

countless

Once

sky.
of

cymbal,

had

high
and

in

and

people to
While
the
of

line.
their

it rang

lightback
curtain

he
close

for

in its last

even

of its

calm

and

fathomless

tabor,

I.

clash
rose

greatestwarrior

the farewell

of his

his

was

ever

his

dull

dim

old

old

at the

and

ears,

of

rian
Assy-

eyes, the

foot of that

brought

heavy
sacred

folds
case
stair-

privilegedto ascend, parted, to

on

the

decline,and

grand

old

majesticin

form, noble
the very

decay.

VOL.

came

tribute
irrepressible

"

for the
was

stars

Assyrian king.

hanging

alone

again

It

in

to

the

on

be rendered

could

the

viol, harp

admiration

great warlike

lost

trumpet-pealand

above

shout
deafening heart-stirring
of honour

seemed

fallen ; the

thousands

lute

passed over

king.
night

more,

high-priest's

scorn

that

so

of the

summit

the

it from

devotion, that

his

by

look

of heaven

prostrationexpressedthe deepest

the 'utmost

Southern

the

ceremony,

sovereign to

host

reached
took

final

The
out

the

of immeasurable

face"

subjectto

considerable

wine, for his

have

Ninus

27o

BAAL.

with

of

cup

should

another

homage,

OF

to
drink-offering

he

temple.

FEAST

ruin

274

SARCHEDON.

Assarac

don,

drew

the

at

whispered
*

for

What

him

in the

'

which

the

Sacrifices

other

and

the face

turned

in

King's destiny to
of the

cedar-house

than
his

heavy,

glued

He

for

must
of

corner

saw

light
"

face

of his

fear

nor

look

no

the

the

him,
have

that

dark

it is written

been

thousand

it

scorn,

he

the

was

Great
the

entered

sooner

no

had

into

Ascending

more.

its

strange lethargy and

drowsiness

he

out

Ere
four

could

quarters

of

pour

strewed

rushes,
he
like

sank
a

been

ankle-deep

face, brought
the

at

the

out
stern

level

by

of his
sudden

lineaments,

on

the

sleep.

dreaming surely,when

chamber,

eyes

throne

the

with

overcome

his

seemed

feet

wearily into

man

his

heaven,

perceptions failed,his

of which

and

gods;

which

people, from

had

dered,
ren-

lie.'

cannot

senses.

floor, and

prepared

stars

his

amidst

wooden

down

come

replied:

Talar, he

to
drink-offering

grew

of fire, as

propitiate a

to

on

enwrapped

they

drink-offeringshave

surely,brother, the

seclusion

chariots

terraces,

him,

next

will

"

lower

Bela-

?'

enough

never

relief; and

of the

one

brother

you,

to-night in

But

of

prieststanding

think

stars

To

of

extremity

to the

breath

long

in

feet, he

glare

of

familiar

XX.

CHAPTER

GONE

mantle

his

dust, his

the

in

Bowed

night,

coming

deaf

hem

He

noises

such

though

like

was

they woke

to

at

knew

practisedear

faint familiar

him

the

was

With
spear

one

and

again.

and

his

to

once

the

for

of

and

all

the

city

and

yet,
ties,
facul-

his

rouse

his

echo, that

distant
of

tramp

his

music

armed

an

fightinginstincts

party,
warned

of steel.

spring

shield

tighter round
danger

clink

powerless to

velled
gro-

riot

trance

as

shades

the

to

of sacred

in

man

were

Arbaces

through

rang

anguish,

hem,

to

sounds

the

to

religious festivity that

round.

with

torn

floor, blind

chamber

his

on

heart

from

rent

was

STARS.

THE

TO

he

from

leaped
the

loins

necessity

for

to

wall,
and

drew

so,

feet, snatched

his

his

with

action, felt he

sword-belt

prospect
was

man

of

GONE

and

Brave

palace which
to

Baal

overlooked
it

whom

his

enemies
his

had

shrunk

never

from

that

warning
the

They

semblance
in

were

in

the

under

the

Most

thence

No,
roof

festivities

some

and
him

across

he
the

his

divining cup,

were

crowding

should

of Baal
the

the

of

the

last
Great

stand

give
roof

take
;

to

before

her
an

in
of

the

the

time

to

adjoining
Where

refuge.

not

hope

to

saving his daughter

desperate

on

retainers
of

men
spear-

that

army,

they

fly to

of the

of the

monarch's

ascendant,

in

his

hostilityhe

that

came

chance

as

terrace

temple

Semiramis.

the

read

court

only

such

the

by

dwelling, and
Not

the

apartments

escape

then

of blood.

The

make

to

women's

had

him

recognised the

instant

same

Ishtar

staircase.
was

the

the

At

in

priests of

the

queen's

was

spearmen,

told

provoking in
he

sank

Eemembering

lord, and

the

to

with

-rohed

him.

while

even

heart

His

white

of his

terrace

Something

upon

powerful conspiracy
die.

to

court.

three

or

belonging

as

the

on

old warrior

service,he knew,

under

ran

277

already filled

were

to
fidelity

must

STABS.

the

was

two

THE

conspicuous.

were

that

he

wary,

perceive that

amongst

TO

palace

safety must

of

lie

King.
were

night.

absent, partaking in
Half

score

or

so

278

SARCHEDON.

liim

gathered round
dispatch

must

to

one

the

on

stairs, and
Ishtar

warn

he

of these

that

they

were

assailed.
in

Even

that

anxious

how, long ago, he had

well

and

called

his

formerly

been

'You
to

under

the

At

his

minute

leader

front
line

pause

of

They
one

"

command,

own

by

prompt

was

king

was

must

who

had

whom

he

desperate man.

minute.

rank

resolute

ever

'

lord the

my

and

live for

short

with

bowmen,

chief

king.'

enough.

!' said

bend

eager

am

he

cally;
mechani-

sharp tones, 'Open out,

of spears

your

bows

men
spear!'

ing
stepped aside, unmaskevery

weapon

drawn

to

head.
was

instant

buckler, leaped down

their

their

Advance, archers, and

the arrow's
To

it

authority,'replied Arbaces,

no

adding, in

The

though

said

King

surrender.

to

all his hosts, under

other

May

Great

in Bactria,

bold,remorseless, and

gain time,

The

him

on

have

captain of

pass

the

palace, said

recognised as

but

remembered

bravely done.

They
search

held

and

outnumbered,

sore

he

moment

the

death.

Arbaces

staircase, and

raised his
dashed

into

midst.

first,archers

and

spearmen

gave

way

before

GONE

the

assault

one

in the

to death

midst

fell where

him,

under

An

his head

he

dared.

white

the

Baal

hath

hovered

and

wild-beast

that

din.

steel

angry

that

ing
threaten-

victory more

to

slay

to

hoarse

voice

his

rose,

Strike,' it said,

'

spoken,

'

'

from

and

the

stars

skirts

of the

downward

Turning

few

thrust, a gush

broken

tasted

blood, heard

king

now,

them

dreams, though

hath

face

syllables.

has

his

his

on

less remorseful

The

encounter
.

him,

in

priest whose

slew

afterwards

murmured,

the

groan.

gasped

who

spearman

by

hollow

came

on

followed

were

die, Arbaces

ever

roused

they

forborne

But

above

pitilesswords
robes

blood,

night

thigh,

lie !'

The

They

not

spare

Arbaces
have

leader, had

cannot

for

followed

savage,

his

image, sculptured

own

nevertheless

would

and

lying when

to' strike, the

he

and

him

put

his fame.

and

once,

fierce
'

been

was

chin, with

to

javelinthrough

raised

had

to

sworn

temple

feet of his

very

was

arm

spearman

old

had

to celebrate

quivered above

than

body,

he
the

the wall

on

his

in

from

gash

had

who

scores

what

; but

practisedwarrior

of

With

head

spear
he

of that

279

STARS.

THE

TO

spoken.

to

The

like
many

of

they only
king,

live

280

SAKCHEDON.

Panting, pale,
taken

had
the
the

the

leapt for
she

man

wild

one

her

at

not

unattended,

her

illusion, she

cast
on

her

over

stalwart

found

of

her

street

she

ere

air

outside

knew

by

travelled
docile

as

no

Then
felt that

its

an

ox,

pace

swift

horror

those

two

her

ears,

rage
out-

of

scarcely felt

several

With

and

the

returned,

senses

the

the

into

steps

fresh

and

she

at which

rate

it

riding a powerful dromedary,

was

as

sensible

more

pering
whis-

of the

results

unconscious.

walls, her

she

in

endearment

rapidly down

sidelong

that

of

shawl

soft voice

half- stifled, she

became

the

was

exposed.

was

carried

was

he

forciblyaway

borne
sweet

save

conscious

was

object and

Blindfold, gagged,
she

while

the

to

pinioned, a

herself

and

to the

she

she

heart

that

perceive

arms

passionate

as

to which

could

before

shoulders,

doubt

no

almost

head,

terms

left

she

Ere

met

her

skies

the

into

had

she

thought

the

from

dropped

need.

her

with

moment

had

loved

where

roof of

thence

figure,and

cloaked

the

on

escaping

spot

very

watched

Sarchedon,

of

intention

the

At

street.

fear, Ishtar

with

father bade,

her

refuge,as

palace,with

herself

beside

of

courser,

fatiguethan

despair came

she

loved

best

to all appearance

and
a

over

in

the

boat.
her

; for

world

she

must

TO

GONE

be

lost to her

would

have

seemed

again ?

Tbe

its folds

had

head;

but

might

breathe

soft

she

of the

in

an

stole into

whisper

her

protestationsof
she
she

So

lay

dead

sought
of

the

an

conscious

With

taken

her

like
head

on

ful
its hate-

and

loathed

still that

an

her

the desert,while

of his

early stage
that

speed.

the

miration
ad-

and

fro in

father

her

palace, and

and

tbe

their

lover

paroxysm

journey, she

been

had

fancied, too, that

other

sounds

fortunate

was

urged
she

of strife.
for

her

that

to

could
fled
Mufshe

cause.

first shades

advantage

fearful

of her

dromedary

She

confused, it
know

not

into

court

distinguishshouts,

did

noiseless

beneath

fear.

Once, in

and

and

and

she

perceive

intervals, with

wildly,hurrying to

its utmost

could

passing

she

her

that

so

bowed

on

eyes

sand

despair;

be

despised.

in

griefand

was

love

set

still round

she

she

at

ear

journeyed

her

of

agony

alive

captivityas

loosened,

desert

down,

glided

knees

to

was

been

ghost. Utterly broken

her

ever

sbawl

smooth

as

she

on

her,

such

freely; and

more

surface

In

was

been

Ai-baces

her.
bow

imminent,

281

STARS.

Had

eyer.

rescued

Sarcbedon

the

for

THE

of the

of

evening, Sarcbedon

darkness

to

escape.

He

had
had

282

SARCHEDON.

in finding an
difficulty

no

Baal
the

did

nor

he

husied

priests,who,

in

their

of considerable

preoccupation.

One

figure indeed

that

completely

in

mantle

form, of which

the

graceful outlines, though

height
of his

of

It

man.

of

engrossing

seen

the

under

that

Great

Queen

sooner

his energy

from

Babylon

time

grew

man

clear

he

was

to

he

and

would

who

fierce
is

was

he

have

temple
his

loved

aware

in

an

only

of its

he

have

burning

fled from

than

hope.
his

the
than

even

No

spirits

projectof escaping
while

there

yet

was

over-mastering desire, like

for
sufi'ocating

the

as

purpose

anxiety and

in

in

rigid,behind

loathing,faster

of the

her

face

feminine

Could

and

the

read

returned, and
with

shrouded

conscious

fixed

so

Ishtar

towards

passed,

seemed

nor

thought.

have

in horror

rose,

of

of

gentle brow,

he

glided by, remaining

face,

he

excitement

height

moved,

he

train

beautiful

veil, could

hurried

the

profound meditation,

own

he

was

never

when

presence,

attitude

there

bore
offices,

something

and

that

several

air

wrapped

of

temple

interruption from

any

exception an

mthout
and

with

meet

the

from

egress

the

air which

that

is his

life.

Hastening
for

journey,

to his

and

home,

bridled

he
the

made

good

ready
horse

Merodach
with

his

284

SARCHEDON.

tlie

bloodliouncl

not

travelled

small

band

his

such

as

long

he

the

seemed

midst
Had

he

they

meant

overtake

to

to encamp

till

towards
ages
meets

bore

with

night

and

put

were

their

in

wind.

desert

where

? He

would

never

he

smiled

the

good

while

horse

he
into

been

in the desert
on

long untiring stride,he

that

horseman
solitary

and

him,

down

horses

informants

his

they

more.

of

it has

score

not

pursued.

neck,

Stretching on
aware

of the

morning

that

first time

gallop once

was

he

whom

those

party

them

dromedary

wings

tarry with

patted Merodach's
a

the

the

have

half

fast ; their

better

not

the

Tor

travelled

that

passed

scarce

breed, and

noblest

learnt

of had

were

they

slightservice.

one

search

in

during

Assyrians,Sarchedon

horse, and

There

armed
the

than

ite
Israel-

whom,

to

patient

recognised the

of the

camp

with

up
their

on

had

He

came

released,and

more

was

before.

were

had

in his

reined

he

ere

wilderness, and

done

himself
He

of

the

captivityin

had

deer.

wayfarers,plodding

Assarac

whom

wounded

furlongs

many
of

into

asses

tracks

the

riding
a

true
must

at

wandering aimlessly
a

foot's

saying, that
be friend

other,

and

or

he

whom

one

Sarchedon

foe.

halting

all

For

pace.

in

front

of

GOXE

discovered,

him,

his

to

285

STARS.

THE

TO

great surprise,that

it

accompanied Ninyas

on

was

Sethos.
The

cup-bearer,who
lion-hunt

fictitious
earliest

latter

followed

far

as

turned

directed

his
his

by
it

But

before

mind.

him

plead

of
for
It
horse

his

the

desert, as

towards
cool

of Sethos

nature

in

the

fatigueof

long

charms

allured

he

had

reallyturned
dark

Kalmim's

inclinations

and

vere
perse-

tained
requiring sus-

course

The

to

all her

his

of

his
him

back

seemed

eyes

to

ment
abandon-

against an

exchange

luxury and

sure
plea-

privation.

long

before

the

he

city,and

night air,came

galloping in fiery haste

death.

accompanied,

painfullyto

with

ovra

not

the

had

he

itself

that

hardship

back

towards

city.

suggested

courtly life,an

was

through

the

of time

temptations ;
with

the

to

it

the

prince,

Beladon,

advice

head

in

soon

Babylon

her

the

self-denial.

or

now
irresistibly,

on

of

taken

young

sun-down

at

could

had

friend.

length

energy

his

warning

horse's

not

was

for any

ride

he

walls,

leaving

vague

as

the

back

rode

the

Impressed by

and

of

opportunity
the

when

outside

his

on

his

guided
so,

his

willing

pacing leisurely

against

his

errand

of life and

friend,

286

SAKCHEDON.

Have

breathless.

pale, fierce, and

the

disturbed

other's
In

'

If it

looks

in

was

and

although

the

his

forbade

when

Sarchedon,

went

neither

wishing

dawn

velvet

would

But

low

quick accents

be

would

of

the

party

in

sight even

entering into

was

had

failed

not

long

who

his

bridle

welcome

at

reins

pace

yet

shake,

than

before,
him

thanking
and

composed it,

haste

furious

farewell, nor
so

observe,

to

passed him

had

more

be

'
"

and

and

in

him

woman

back

with

must

two-edged

Kalmim

needs

Surely there

all this turmoil.

honey,

the

eyes.

for

sad.

so

thought Sethos, nodding sagely,and

woman,'

thinking he

marvelling at

imploring

identifyingthose

seemed

tidings that
*

he

giving

again

away

in turn,
wild

; and

little band

which

dromedary's extraordinary speed

the

which

powers,

them

pursuit.

now,' repliedthe other

description of

catch

and

daylight,they

was

Shall

brieflydescribed

Sarchedon

desperate man,
he

Sethos

whisper, in

hoarse

of which

Sarchedon,

past ?'

gone

?' asked

what

Seen

'

they

have

long

How

?' exclaimed

them

seen

you

be

is wormwood

sword

in

the

by
the

row's
to-mor-

cause

with
scabbard

of
the
of

gold.'

when

did

such

pithy

saws

ever

preserve

GONE

foolish

from

man

of

proof to

the

mantle

back

of

Babylon,

to

hate

Merodach's

and

his eager

of

his

ere

dusky shadows
but
on

them

with

worthy

are

he

They

forced

was

wheeled

round,

approaching

out

its

to

love

the

swelling of
voluntary

nearing the object

could

tain
distinguish cer-

before

vapours

gallant war-horse

!'

name

within

were

sharpened of

horse's

were

muttered,

of your

tones, he shrieked

the

him,

gained

stride.

every

'Merodach,'

steadily
into

by

the

sight

his

rode

its prey.

eyes,

flying like

looming larger as

to shreds

galloped on

and

speed, that they

pursuit long

Sethos

aware,

neck

proud

increase

was

armour

of soft eyes,

shrivelled

is not

stooping for

were

is the

pair

Sarchedon

fear, he

and

where

from

that

falcon

Or

heart

287

STARS.

burning sigh ?

Piercing as

of

his

of wisdom

desert, like

and

deeds

fence

in the hreath

THE

TO

and

enemy,

'king

of

in

Then,

horses,

husky

Stand, cowards,

ear-

shot, and

speed;

utmost

halted

not

the
but

frantic

stand

!'

dromedary
a

bow-shot

supported by

you

horseman
from

his

follower, who

bore his shield.

*It

is

the Mountains
'

said
spirit,'

the

latter;

'it is Abitur

of

!'

Fool, keep

your

arm

down

and

cover

me,'

re-

288

SARCHEDON.

buckler, he took

and

silk

steel and

gold

embroidered
it

winged

that

feathers

very

in, the

dashed

Sarchedon

swifter, straighteryet. It pierced through

flew

arrow

long steady aim.

straight as

and

Swift

the

behind

bow

his

plied the other, while, bending

the

baldrick;
red

draggled

were

in

blood.

his

and

desert

sand

himself

balancing

moYements,

rider

his

swaying body,

like

it

as

moon

Had

the

under

were

its

obey

to

headlong

fallen

to

earth.

the

followed

bearer

their

and

archer

successful

the

while

So

party

well

back

carried

was

the

he
Once

his

rider

bore

the

path
"

gaunt

white

black

and

the

ribs, with

festering on

where

strip or

the bones.

saddle,
over

gallantly

queen.

snorted

swerved

sand,

so-

to his

Ninus

the

Babylon,

traversed

horse

and

to

towards

had

he

good

snorted

heavily to

gallop

signet of

the

more

that

ground

same

when

at

shield-

his

pleased,Sarchedon,

helpless, senseless, yet cleaving still

in

and

w^heel.

him

have

must

lowered

man

stars

taught

instincts

Merodach's

not

him

round

spun

while

neck,

horse's

on

himself

stricken

dizzy,the

Faint, sick, and

at

an

object

aside, casting his

lay
two

framework
of

of

putrid flesh,

TO

GONE

For

While
was

his
aware,

the

moment

horse
as

if in

which

the

and

Ere

closed

flame

quiver

where

his

take back

in

gods
with

his

the
had

them

eyes

sky.

the

It

the person

END

OF

VOL.

AJfD

SONS,

PBtXTEES,

across

as

that

royal tiara,

flared
in

saw

above

of the Great

I.

PAXCBAfl

sheet
the

of

city

chariots of fire to

LOlTDOJi:

BCLfoS

life.

queen.

again, he

down

come

mark

same

life-blood

of Semiramis

symbol
he

the

own

to

fallen

trance, that he had

drinking his

was

him

riderless,Sarchedon

away

bearing

splinteredarrow

brought

shock

scoured

289

STARS.

THE

BOAD,

N.V

King.