"I do not understand, Seti."

"I never thought you would, Userti, but when you have leisure, ask Ana
here to explain the matter to you. I am sure that _he_ understands."

"Oh! I have borne enough," exclaimed Userti rising. "Hearken to the
command of Pharaoh, Prince Seti. It is that you wait upon him to-morrow
in full council, at an hour before noon, there to talk with him of this
question of the Israelitish slaves and the officer whom it has pleased
you to kill. I came to speak other words to you also, but as they
were for your private ear, these can bide a more fitting opportunity.
Farewell, my Brother."

"What, are you going so soon, Sister? I wished to tell you the story
about those Israelites, and especially of the maid whose name is--what
was her name, Ana?"

"Merapi, Moon of Israel, Prince," I added with a groan.

"About the maid called Merapi, Moon of Israel, I think the sweetest that
ever I have looked upon, whose father the dead captain murdered in my
sight."

"So there is a woman in the business? Well, I guessed it."

"In what business is there not a woman, Userti, even in that of a
message from Pharaoh. Pambasa, Pambasa, escort the Princess and
summon her servants, women everyone of them, unless my senses mock
me. Good-night to you, O Sister and Lady of the Two Lands, and forgive