"In consequence of his learning and wisdom, which were very remarkable, what then?"
"The king's favour," said Norton.
"Just what the friends of the young Jews had been afraid they would lose. They 'stood before the king;' that means they were appointed to be king's officers; they served him, not any meaner man. Now how does this all come home to us? How are we tempted, as Daniel and his fellows were tempted?"
Norton, at whom Mr. Wharncliffe glanced, replied that he did not know. Matilda also was silent, though longing to utter her confession. The questioning eyes passed on.
"The fellows think you must do as they does," said a lad who sat next Matilda.
"In what?"
That boy hesitated; the next spoke up, and said, "Lying, and lifting."
"And swearing," added a third.
"How if you do not follow their ways?"
"Some thinks you won't never get along, nohow."