"Pentaur was the most promising of my disciples, and in spite of many aberrations I still esteem him highly.

When he was telling us of what had occurred to-day, did he not remind you of the great Assa, or of his gallant son, the Osirian father of the pioneer Paaker ?" "The likeness is extraordinary," answered Ani, "and yet he is of quite humble birth.

Who was his mother ?" "Our gate-keeper's daughter, a plain, pious, simple creature." "Now I will return to the banqueting hall," said Ani, after a fete moments of reflection.

"But I must ask you one thing more.

I spoke to you of a secret that will put Paaker into our power.