In highly patriotic circles, those who refuse to wrap themselves in the flag get in trouble, and those who give such persons comfort and aid may also be in danger. Ashpenaz knows the implications of Daniel’s request. He well knows that both his position and his life will be in jeopardy if his plea is granted, and especially if evidences of poor health in Daniel and his companions are traced back to his cooperation with them. Enabling them to carry out the unpatriotic act of rejecting