A Persian gets low-spirited without the joys of war." A murmur of applause ran through the ranks of the Achaemenidae and fresh shouts of "Victory to the king" resounded through the hall.

Their anger on account of the humiliation of a woman was quickly forgotten; thoughts of coming battles, undying renown and conqueror's laurels to be won by deeds of arms, and recollections of their former mighty deeds raised the spirits of the revellers.
The king himself was more moderate than usual to-day, but he encouraged his guests to drink, enjoying their noisy merriment and overflowing mirth; taking, however, far more pleasure still in the fascinating beauty of the Egyptian Princess, who sat at his side, paler than usual, and thoroughly exhausted by the exertions of the morning and the unaccustomed weight of the high tiara.

He had never felt so happy as on this day.

What indeed could he wish for more than he already possessed?
Had not the gods given him every thing that a man could desire?
and, over and above all this, had not they flung into his lap the precious gift of love?
His usual inflexibility seemed to have changed into benevolence, and his stern severity into good-nature, as he turned to his brother Bartja with the words: "Come brother, have you forgotten my promise?
Don't you know that to-day you are sure of gaining the dearest wish of your heart from me?
That's right, drain the goblet, and take courage! but do not ask anything small, for I am in the mood to give largely to-day.

Ah, it is a secret! come nearer then.