pontiff lowered his voice and drew nearer to Kenkenes, "and there are
those that may be watching for this letter. A nobleman would not be
thought a messenger. Thou dost incur less danger than the
clout-wearing runner for the temple."

A light broke over Kenkenes.

"I understand," he said.

"Go, then, by private boat at sunset, and Ptah be with thee. Make all
speed." He put a doubly wrapped scroll into Kenkenes' hands. "This is
to be delivered to our holy Superior, Loi, priest of Amen. Farewell,
and fail not."

Kenkenes bowed and withdrew.

It was long before sunset, and he had an unfulfilled promise in mind.
He crossed the square thoughtfully and paused by the pool in its
center. The surface, dark and smooth as oil, reflected his figure and
face faithfully and to his evident satisfaction. He passed around the
pool and walked briskly in the direction of another narrow passage
lined by rich residences.

He knocked at a portal framed by a pair of huge pilasters, which
towered upward, and, as pillars, formed two of the colonnade on the
roof. A portress admitted him with a smile and led him through the
sumptuously appointed chamber of guests into the intramural park.
There she indicated a nook in an arbor of vines and left him.

With a silent foot he crossed the flowery court and entered the bower.