An Egyptian Princess — Volume 03 by Georg Ebers
page 36 of 66 (54%)
page 36 of 66 (54%)
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donation!'"
"The wretch!" "Say rather: the true Egyptian! to Psamtik everything foreign is an abomination." "How much have the Greeks in Naukratis contributed?" "Beside munificent private donations, each community has given twenty minae." "That is much." "Philoinus, the Sybarite, alone sent me a thousand drachmm," and accompanied his gift with a most singular epistle. May I read it aloud, Rhodopis?" "Certainly," answered she, "it will show you that the drunkard has repented of his late behaviour." The Delphian began: "Philoinus to Phryxus: It grieves me that at Rhodopis' house the other night I did not drink more; for had I done so I should have lost consciousness entirely, and so have been unable to offend even the smallest insect. My confounded abstemiousness is therefore to blame, that I can no longer enjoy a place at the best table in all Egypt. I am thankful, however, to Rhodopis for past enjoyment, and in memory of her glorious roastbeef (which has bred in me the wish to buy her cook at any price) I send twelve large spits for roasting oxen, --[Rhodopis is said to have sent such a gift to Delphi. Herod.]--and beg |
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