Farewell," and with Bes and the six hunters I rode through the guards, none striving to hinder me.
"That was well done, Master," said Bes.
"Yes," I said.

"Those two messengers who went ahead of us brought orders to the frontier guard of Idernes that I should be taken to him as a prisoner.

I do not know why, but I think because things are passing in Egypt of which we know nothing and the King did not desire that I should see the Prince Peroa and give him news that I might have gathered.
Mayhap we have been outwitted, Bes, and the business of the lady Amada is but a pretext to pick a quarrel suddenly before Peroa can strike the first blow." "Perhaps, Master, for these Easterns are very crafty.

But, Master, what happens to those who make a false use of the King's ancient, sacred signet?
I think they have cut the ropes which tie them to earth," and he looked upwards to the sky rolling his yellow eyes.
"They must find new ropes, Bes, and quickly, before they are caught.
Hearken.

You have sat upon a throne and I can speak out to you.