First, I insist that the letter, which I confess to have written to the father of Nebenchari in a moment of inconsideration, be restored to me.

If left in the hands of thy party, it could reduce me from a king to the contemptible slave of priestly intrigue." "That wish is reasonable.

The letter shall be returned to thee, if....

" "Not another if! on the contrary, know that I consider thy petition for the punishment of Gyges so imprudent, that I refuse to grant it.

Now leave me and appear not again before mine eyes until I summon thee! Yesterday I gained a son, only to lose him to-day.