Where did you leave the Scribe Rasa, Priest? Nay,
it was not safe;he was too powerful, he had too many in his pay. But whence come you
in thischariot, and why?
Horses screamed, men fell and groaned outtheir
lives.
And, I the King ofKings, your father, remain here
awaiting death that soon must overtakeme, and oh! Where did you leave the Scribe
Rasa, Priest? A good plan, said Nefra, clapping her hands. Although I could not say
it, it was my desire that he shouldbide with us at the pyramids.
Do not run to meet evil, Niece, said Tau sadly.
Whydid you not bring these travellers with you?
First will I see Egypt devoured by fire and sword
andperish with her. How could he succeed against so mighty afoe?
Then Khian fainted again, for he had lost much
blood. At this bank the Shepherds charged fromevery side. Begone or Ifall upon my
sword before your eyes. But of this business he said nothing to Nefra, fearing lest
he shouldfill her with false hope. At least since no other offered, the planshould
be tried.
Or perchance other things would have happened,
Niece.
But of this business he said nothing to Nefra,
fearing lest he shouldfill her with false hope. Yet Roy being dead, leaving me,
allunworthy in his place, still speaks. When Tau returned an hour later Nefra was
still questioning him. Have I not told youthat I believe the Prince to be alive? The
officer smote, somewhat wildly, perhaps the blood fromhis wound had run into his
eyes.
Have not all thingshappened according to your
desire?
Nefra finished reading, then fell rather than leapt
from the chariotinto the arms of Tau. Still he sent Ru and with him came theroyal
armourer.
Your report, he said, and waited with fear in his
heart.
He lay still, regaining his breath, then sat up
andlooked about him.
Many years ago we were dear toeach other. The
safety of the Queen ofEgypt is much, as is the safety of the Prince Khian. Four
nights, Prince, answered the officer.