Honour is more than life, Mermes." "Certainly honour is more than life," replied Mermes, staring at the ceiling, perhaps to hide the look upon his face, "and for a little while Rames seems to be in the way of it.

But those who are set high have far to fall, O Queen, and--forgive me--he is my only child.

Now when Pharaoh recovers----" "Rames will be far away," broke in Tua.

"Go, bring him here at once, and with him the Vizier and the chief scribe of the Council.

Take this ring, it will open all doors," and she drew the signet from her finger and handed it to him.
"At this hour, your Majesty ?" said Mermes in a doubtful voice.
"Have I not spoken," she answered impatiently.