“The Medes may be depended upon, but none others. It is true we have placated the Prince of Iran. But with your permission I will offer further advice.”
“Say on!”
“I advise that you send for the Prince of Iran and personally greet him with your royal hand and assure him of your favor as King. Thus will you fasten him to your cause and satisfy the Aryans, by whose power alone you may hope to prosecute this war successfully.”
The King broke forth in a torrent of curses and imprecations. It was a bitter tonic that Prexaspes had prescribed. He hated the Prince of Iran with the hatred of jealousy and fear. He ended his explosion by saying:
“But the day will come when I shall surely slay that man! Now, indeed, I see that I must dissemble. Press me not too far on this path, Prexaspes, lest I slay you! Go then and command him to come here. I will dissemble. I will be as wise as a serpent—for a time!”
Prexaspes bowed low and backed from the royal presence. He sent a messenger to the Prince of Iran, who came at once.
The Prince was pale but composed. He bowed low over the King’s extended hand, saying: “I am here at the King’s command. Let it please the King to command.”
The King glowered sullenly upon the Prince, but endeavored to infuse into his tones a note of cordiality, as he said: “Prince Hystaspis, I have trusted you greatly, though, as you well know, no love has ever been between us. I hear that there has been much treasonable talk in this army.”
“I know there is much dissatisfaction, O King!” answered the Prince. “But it cannot be said to be treasonable. The people of Iran like not the power and place given to the fire-worshipers of the hills. The Persians, who occupied the chief places under King Cyrus, are grieved that they have not found favor with his son.”
“We will show these proud slaves who grumble, that the King of Kings brooks no interference!” exclaimed the King, his anger blazing forth for an instant. “Prexaspes has given you my decree concerning Athura. You may rest assured that she and you may marry safely. Where is she? Of all men, you should know.”