Can I speak with the Pharaoh ?" "No, Queen.

He is up already giving audience to the nobles of Memphis, and trying cases from the Lower Land with his Counsellors; until it is time to start for this ceremony of the laying of the foundation-stone of the temple, whither you accompany him in state.

Also it is as well--by to-night we may learn more.

Come, let me set the crown upon your head that these dogs of Memphis may know their mistress." The ceremony proved very wearisome.

First there was the long chariot ride through the crowded, shouting streets, Pharaoh and Abi going in the first chariot, and Tua, attended by Abi's eldest daughter, a round-eyed lady much older than herself, in the second.