, "and all the
more ardently the better were the tidings which I had of thee. Today I
see not only that Thou hast the heart of a lion, but that Thou art a
man full of prudence, who knows how to estimate his own acts, who is
able to restrain himself, and who feels for the interests of Egypt."

When the prince, filled with emotion, was silent and kissed his
father's feet, the pharaoh continued,

"Thou hast done well to renounce command of the Greek regiments,
because from this day the corps in Memphis is thine, Thou art its
commander."

"My father!" whispered the heir, trembling.

"Besides, in Lower Egypt, which is open on three sides to attacks of
hostile nations, I need a wise, active man, who will watch all things
round him, weigh them well in his heart, and act promptly. For this
reason I appoint thee my lieutenant in that half of the kingdom."

Abundant tears flowed from the prince's eyes. With those tears he bade
farewell to his youth; be greeted power, to which his soul had turned
for years with uncertainty and longing.

"I am now weak and wearied," said the ruler, "and were it not for
anxiety touching thy youth and the future of Egypt, I would this day
beg my deathless ancestors to call me to their glory. Each day is for
me more difficult, and therefore, Ramses, Thou wilt begin to share the
burden of rule with me. As a hen teaches her chicks to search out
grains of corn and hide before the hawk, so I will teach thee that
toilsome art of ruling a state and watching the devices of enemies. May
Thou fall on them in time, like an eagle on timid partridges."

The pharaoh's barge and its well-ordered retinue had descended to a
point opposite the palace. The wearied ruler took a seat in his litter,
and at that moment Herhor approached Ramses.

"Permit me, worthy prince," said he, "to be the earliest among those
who are delighted with thy elevation. May Thou lead the army with as
much success as Thou shalt govern the most important part of the state
to the glory of Egypt."

Ramses pressed his hand firmly.

"Didst Thou do this, O Herhor?" asked he.

"It belonged to thee," replied the minister.

"Thou hast my gratitude, and wilt see that it is of value."

"Thou hast rewarded me already in speaking thus," replied Herhor.

The prince wished to depart; Herhor detained him.

"A brief word. Be careful, O heir, that one of thy women, Sarah, does
not sing religious hymns."

When Ramses looked at him with astoni