[The Ancient Allan by H. Rider Haggard]@TWC D-Link book
The Ancient Allan

CHAPTER IV
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But why came you here ?" "Idernes the satrap of Egypt, servant of the King of kings, sought for one who would travel to the East because the King of kings desired to hear of the hunting of lions in the lands that lie to the south of Egypt towards the beginnings of the great river.

Then I, who desired to see new countries, said, 'Here am I.Send me.' So I came and for three moons have dwelt in the royal city, but till this hour have scarcely so much as seen the face of the great King, although by many messengers I have announced my presence, showing them the letters of Idernes giving me safe-conduct.

Therefore I propose to-morrow or the next day to return to Egypt." The King said a word and a scribe appeared whom he commanded to take note of my words and let the matter be inquired of, since some should suffer for this neglect, a saying at which I saw Houman and certain of the nobles turn pale and whisper to each other.
"Now I remember," he exclaimed, "that I did desire Idernes to send me an Egyptian hunter.

Well, you are here and we are about to hunt the lion of which there are many in yonder reeds, hungry and fierce beasts, since for three days they have been herded in so that they can kill no food.
How many lions have you slain, Shabaka ?" "Fifty and three in all, O King, not counting the cubs." He stared at me, answering with a sneer, "You Egyptians have large mouths.

I have always heard it of you.


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