l with us, have we
not made many expeditions to the west, returning with captives and
much booty? And yet the people had no quarrel with us--many of them,
indeed, could scarcely have known us by name when our army appeared
among them. Some day, my son, things may be managed differently; but
at present kings who have power make war upon people that are weaker
than themselves, spoil them of their goods, and make slaves of them.

"I hope, Amuba, you will not expose yourself too much in the conflict.
You have not come to man's strength yet; and remember you are my only
child. See that your charioteer covers you with his shield when you
have entered the battle, for the Egyptians are terrible as archers.
Their bows carry much further than do ours, and the arrows will pierce
even the strongest armor. Our spearmen have always shown themselves as
good as theirs--nay, better, for they are stronger in body and full of
courage. It is in the goodness of her archers and the multitude of her
chariots that the strength of Egypt lies. Remember that although your
father, as king, must needs go into the thick of the battle to
encourage his soldiers, there is no occasion why you, who are yet a
boy, should so expose yourself.

"It will doubtless be a terrible battle. The Egyptians have the memory
of past defeats to wipe out, and they will be fighting under the eye
of their king. I am terrified, Amuba. Hitherto when your father has
gone out to battle I have never doubted as to the result. The Persians
were not foes whom brave men need dread; nor was it difficult to force
the hordes passing us from the eastward toward the setting sun to
respect our country, for we had the advantage in arms and discipline.
But the Egyptians are terrible foes, and the arms of their king have
been everywhere victorious. My heart is filled with dread at the
thought of the approaching conflict, though I try to keep up a brave
face when your father is with me, for I would not that he should deem
me cowardly."

"I trust, mother, that your fears are groundless, and I cannot think
that our men will give way when fighting for their homes and country
upon ground chosen by themselves."

"I hope not, Amuba. But there is the trumpet sounding; it is the
signal that the council have broken up and that your father is about
to start. Bless you, my dear boy, and may you return safe and sound
from the conflict!"

The queen fondly embraced her son, who left the apartment ha