t this
was because they were not yet invested with their robes. He hoped to
induce his father to do this as soon as he shook off his pitiable
misanthropy. And he must also be persuaded to direct the pursuit of the
fugitives. "This will not be difficult," he cried insolently, "for the
old man appreciates beauty, and has himself cast an eye on the singer. If
they capture her, I'll guarantee nothing, you 'King of kings!' for, spite
of his grey beard, he can cut us all out with the women, and Barine--as
we have heard--doesn't think a man of much importance until his locks
begin to grow thin. I gave Derketaeus orders to send all his men in
pursuit. He's as cunning as a fox, and the police are compelled to obey
him."

"If I were not forced to lie here like a dead donkey, I would soon find
her," sighed Caesarion. "Night or day, she is never out of my mind. I
have already spent everything I possessed in the search. Yesterday I sent
for the steward Seleukus. What is the use of being my mother's son, and
the fat little fellow isn't specially scrupulous! He will do nothing, yet
there must be gold enough. The Queen has sunk millions in the sand on the
Syrian frontier of the Delta. There is to be a square hole or something
of the sort dug there to hide the fleet. I only half understand the
absurd plan. The money might have paid hundreds of spies. So talents are
thrown away, and the strong-box is locked against the son. But I'll find
one that will open to me. I must have her, though I risk the crown. It
always sounds like a jeer when they call me the King of kings. I am not
fit for sovereignty. Besides, the throne will be seized ere I really
ascend it. We are conquered, and if we succeed in concluding a peace,
which will secure us life and a little more, we must be content. For my
part, I shall be satisfied with a country estate on the water, a
sufficient supply of money and, above all, Barine. What do I care for
Egypt? As Caesar's son I ought to have ruled Rome; but the immortals knew
what they were doing when they prompted my father to disinherit me. To
govern the world one must have less need of sleep. Really--you know it--I
always feel tired, even when I am well. People must let me alone! Your
father, too, Antyllus, is laying down his arms and letting things go as
they will."

"Ah, so he is!" cried Antony's son indignantly. "But just wait! The
sleeping lion will wake again, and, when he uses his teeth and paws--"

"My mother w