The Ancient Allan by H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
page 160 of 314 (50%)
page 160 of 314 (50%)
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"Thus, Prince," I answered. "I would send a command under the seal to Idernes to wait upon the holder of the seal here in Memphis. He will suspect a trap and will not come until he has gathered a great army. Then he will come, but meanwhile, you, Prince, can also collect an army." "That needs gold, Shabaka, and I have little. The King of kings takes all in tribute." "I have some, Prince, to the weight of a heavy man, and it is at the service of Egypt." "I thank you, Shabaka. Believe me, such generosity shall not go unrewarded," and he glanced at Amada who dropped her eyes. "But if we can collect the army, what then?" "Then you can put Memphis into a state of defence. Then too when Idernes comes I will meet him and, as the bearer of the seal, command him under the seal to retreat and disperse his army." "But if he does, Shabaka, it will only be until he has received fresh orders from the Great King, whereon he will advance again." "No, Prince, /he/ will not advance, or that army either. For when they are in retreat we will fall on them and destroy them, and declare you, O Prince, Pharaoh of Egypt, though what will happen afterwards I do not know." When they heard this all gasped. Only Amada whispered, |
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