"I was in the Sanctuary when your Majesty summoned me," she said,
pointing to the sacred robe she wore. "Let your Majesty pardon me,
therefore, if I have been long in coming," and she bowed low before her.

But the Queen lifted her up and kissed her, saying,

"I am weary of those high titles whereof I have heard more than enough
to-day. Call me Tua, O my mother, for so you have ever been to me, from
whose breast I drew the milk of life."

"What ails you, my child?" asked Asti. "Was the crown too heavy for this
young head of yours?" she added, stretching out her delicate hand and
stroking the black and curling hair.

"Aye, Mother, the weight of it seemed to crush me with its gems and
gold. I am weary and yet I cannot sleep. Tell me, why did Pharaoh summon
that Council after the feast? Mermes was one of them, so you must know.
And why was not I, who henceforth rule with Pharaoh, present with him?"

"Would you learn?" said Asti with a little smile. "Well, as Queen
you have the right. It was because they discussed the matter of your
marriage."

For a moment a light shone upon Tua's face. Then she asked anxiously:

"My marriage, and with whom?"

"Oh! many names were mentioned, Child, since she who rules Egypt does
not lack for suitors."