Why then do you ask me to show you their loveliness ?" "I had heard rumours, O Pharaoh," answered the Prince, "no more.

Indeed, I did not believe them, for where there are so many wives I was certain that there would be some mothers.

Therefore I asked to be sure before I proffered a petition which now I will make to you not for my own sake but for Egypt's and yours, O Pharaoh.

Have I your leave to speak here in public ?" "Speak on," said Pharaoh sternly.

"Let aught that is for the welfare of Egypt be heard by Egypt." "Your Majesty has told me," replied Abi bowing, "that the gods, being wrath, have denied you children.