"Indeed, Pambasa, and what did he say?"

"He said that he was keeping it himself. When I stared wondering what it
might be, for I saw nothing on him, he added, 'It is here,' and touched
the private signet guard that he has always worn, an ancient ring of
gold, but of no great value I should say, with 'Beloved of Thoth and of
the King' cut upon it. It seems that he must take it off to make room
for another and much finer ring which her Highness has given him."

Now, by this time, the ass having been unloaded by the slaves and led
away, we had passed through the hall where many were idling as ever, and
were come to the private apartments of the palace.

"This way," said Pambasa. "The orders are that I am to take you to
the Prince wherever he may be, and just now he is seated in the great
apartment with her Highness, where they have been receiving homage and
deputations from distant cities. The last left about half an hour ago."

"First I will prepare myself, worthy Pambasa," I began.

"No, no, the orders are instant, I dare not disobey them. Enter," and
with a courtly flourish he drew a rich curtain.

"By Amon," exclaimed a weary voice which I knew as that of the Prince,
"here come more councillors or priests. Prepare, my sister, prepare!"

"I pray you, Seti," answered another voice, that of Userti, "to learn to
call me by my right name, which is no longer sister. Nor, indeed, am I
your full sister."