Oh! if Rames were dead, what should she do?
Of what use was it to be Queen of Egypt, the first woman in the world, if Rames were dead ?" Loneliness, insufferable loneliness seemed to get a hold of her.

She slipped from her bed, and through the doorway of her little pylon chamber.

Now she was upon the narrow stair, and in face of her was that other chamber where Asti slept.

Someone was talking with her! Perhaps Mermes was with his wife, and if so she could not enter.

No, it was Asti's voice, and, listening, she could hear her murmuring prayers or invocations in solemn tones.