And, so it was, this was to be an orgy that would set a record for all time to come.
Artists and artisans of the highest skill had been summoned to the work of beautifying the enormous palace; its gardens and grounds, innumerable slaves furnishing the labor.

The gold and silver of the nation was gathered and beaten into ornaments and woven into beautiful designs to grace the occasion.

There was a profusion of the most gorgeous plumage and richest fabrics, while over all were sprinkled in unheard of prodigality, the rarest gems and jewels.

It was indeed to be a fitting celebration of the glory of Bel, and the power and magnificence of his earthly representative; heathen opulence, heathen pride and sensuality were to outdo themselves.
The revel started at a tremendous pace.

No such wines and viands ever before had been served.