But I believe it not, who hold that the gods clothe us with this robe of flesh for their own purpose, and that the spirit within us has been from the beginning and eternally will be.

Therefore I love not life and fear not death, knowing that these are but doors leading to the immortal house that is prepared for us.

The royal blood you have came to you from your mother and myself, but that our lots should have been humble, while yours, mayhap, will be splendid, does not move me to envy who perchance have been that you may be.

You go forth to fulfil your fortunes which I believe are great, I bide here to fulfil mine which lead me to the tomb.

I shall never see you in your power, if power comes to you, nor will your triumphant footsteps stir my sleep.
"Yet, Rames, remember that though you tread on cloth of gold and the bowed necks of your enemies, though love be your companion and diadems your crown, though flatteries float about you like incense in a shrine till, at length, you deem yourself a god, those footsteps of yours still lead to that same dark tomb and through it on to Judgment.