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206 BOOK OF THE A. AND A. KITE.
Zer.\ What is this, Darius, I hear in jour court?
Is it already corrupted by flattery and effeminacy?
Reject! reject with indignation those sentiments of
yourself that have just been uttered. Strength and
power reside in kings. Beauty has its influence, but
it is the mark of wisdom to acknowledge the empire
of Truth. Truth is omnipotent— greater than any
transitory throne—more endurable than any frail
decaying beauty. These are both of short duration
but truth lives forever.
The power of kings, as well as that of beauty, is
subject to the revolutions of chance. Truth changes
never—always pure, always simple. It is the essence
of the Grand Architect of the universe. It is the tie
of all treaties. It is the motive of every just action,
the basis of all laws, the seal of sovereign majesty,
the object of every good man's search. We love
those who demonstrate it, and detest those who con-
ceal it. Lying disguises it, and, by borrowing its
appearance, furnishes the best proof and clearest
avowal of its superiority. Considerations more pow-
erful than human, O King, induce me thus to dare to
speak to you in its favor, in opposition to the too
flattering sentiments which might have seduced you
from the time path. You are yourself, great Prince,
I am sure, about to confirm by your decision the em-
pire of Truth.
Darius. Yes, Zerubbabel ; come, and by receiving