So he answered the prince with grave determination: "I must and will punish you--and I do so by requesting you to leave the House of Seti this very day." The prince turned pale.

But Ameni went on more kindly: "I do not expel you with ignominy from among us--I only bid you a friendly farewell.

In a few weeks you would in any case have left the college, and by the king's command have transferred your blooming life, health, and strength to the exercising ground of the chariot-brigade.

No punishment for you but this lies in my power.

Now give me your hand; you will make a fine man, and perhaps a great warrior." The prince stood in astonishment before Ameni, and did not take his offered hand.