nce of Ramses,"
whispered Patrokles.

Through a series of chambers filled with columns and adorned with
paintings, where at each door priests and palace officials gave low
obeisances before him, the pharaoh passed to his cabinet. That was a
lofty hall with alabaster walls on which in gold and bright colors were
depicted the most famous events in the reign of Ramses XII, therefore
homage given him by the inhabitants of Mesopotamia, the embassy from
the King of Buchten, and the triumphal journey of the god Khonsu
through the land of that potentate.

In this hall was the malachite statue of the bird-headed Horus, adorned
with gold and jewels. In front of the statue was an altar shaped as a
truncated pyramid, the king's armor, costly armchairs and stools, also
tables covered with trifles and small objects.

When the pharaoh appeared, one of the priests burnt incense before him,
and one of the officials announced Prince Ramses, who soon entered and
bowed low before his father. On the expressive face of the prince
feverish disquiet was evident.

"Erpatr, I rejoice," said the pharaoh, "that Thou hast returned in good
health from a difficult journey."

"Mayst Thou live through eternity, holiness, and thy affairs fill the
two worlds!" replied Ramses.

"My military advisers have just informed me of thy labor and prudence."

The heir's face quivered and changed. He fixed great eyes on the
pharaoh and listened.

"Thy deeds will not remain without reward. Thou wilt receive ten
talents, a great chain, and two Greek regiments with which Thou wilt
exercise."

Ramses was amazed, but after a while he asked with a stifled voice,

"But the corps in Memphis?"

"In a year we will repeat the maneuvers, and if Thou make no mistake in
leading the army Thou wilt get the corps."

"I know that Herhor did this!" cried the prince, hardly restraining his
anger.

He looked around, and added, "lean never be alone with thee, my father;
strangers are always between us."

The pharaoh moved his brows slightly, and his suite vanished, like a
crowd of shadows.

"What hast Thou to tell me?"

"Only one thing, father. Herhor is my enemy. He accused me to thee and
exposed me to this shame!"

In spite of his posture of obedience the prince gnawed his lips and
balled his fists.

"Herhor is thy friend and my faithful servant. It was his persuasion
that made thee heir to the throne. But I will not confide a corps to a
youthful leader who le