22
Nor did they employ the night in sleep, so much as in contriving cruel mockeries for those deemed miserable.
23
The morning cock had just crowed, and Hermon, having harnessed the brutes, was stimulating them in the great colonnade.
24
The city crowds were collected together to see the hideous spectacle, and waited impatiently for the dawn.
25
The Jews, breathless with momentary suspense, stretched forth their hands, and prayed the Greatest God, in mournful strains, again to help them speedily.
26
The sun's rays were not yet shed abroad, and the king was waiting for his friends, when Hermon came to him, calling him out, and saying, That his desires could now be realized.
27
The king, receiving him, was astonished at his unwonted exit; and, overwhelmed with a spirit of oblivion about everything, enquired the object of this earnest preparation.
28
But this was the working of that Almighty God who had made him forget all his purpose.
29
Hermon, and all his friends, pointed out the preparation of the animals. They are ready, O king, according to your own strict injunction.
30
The king was filled with fierce anger at these words; for, by the Providence of God regarding these things, his mind had become entirely confused. He looked hard at Hermon, and threatened him as follows:
31
Your parents, or your children, were they here, to these wild beasts a large repast they should have furnished; not these innocent Jews, who me and my forefathers loyally have served.
32
Had it not been for familiar friendship, and the claims of your office, your life should have gone for theirs.