Worship your God when and where ye will, but just because I desire your welfare, I cannot consent to the prosecution of a work which kindles discord among you." "And is it then thy pleasure on this day to take back a favor, which thy father made sure unto us by a written decree ?" asked Belteshazzar.
"A written decree ?" "Which will surely be found even to this day laid up in the archives of thy kingdom." "Find this decree and show it me, and I will not only allow the building to be continued, but will promote the same," answered the king; "for my father's will is as sacred to me as the commands of the gods." "Wilt thou allow search to be made in the house of the rolls at Ecbatana ?" asked Belteshazzar.

"The decree will surely be found there." "I consent, but I fear ye will find none.

Tell thy nation, priest, that I am content with the equipment of the men of war they have sent to take the field against the Massagetae.

My general Megabyzus commends their looks and bearing.

May thy people prove as valiant now as in the wars of my father! You, Belteshazzar, I bid to my marriage feast, and charge you to tell your fellows, Meshach and Abednego, next unto you the highest in the city of Babylon, that I expect them this evening at my table." "The God of my people Israel grant thee blessing and happiness," answered Belteshazzar bowing low before the king.
"A wish which I accept!" answered the king, "for I do not despise the power of your wonder-working great Spirit.