Almost am I minded to declare my daughter, the Royal Princess, sole heiress to the throne, seeing that in her there is more strength and wisdom than in any other of our House." "If such be Pharaoh's will, let Pharaoh's will be done," said Seti most humbly.

"Well I know my own unworthiness to fill so high a station, and by all the gods I swear that my beloved sister will find no more faithful subject than myself." "You mean, Seti," interrupted Userti, "that rather than marry me you would abandon your right to the double crown.

Truly I am honoured.

Seti, whether you reign or I, I will not marry you." "What words are these I hear ?" cried Meneptah.

"Is there indeed one in this land of Egypt who dares to say that Pharaoh's decree shall be disobeyed?
Write it down, Scribes, and you, O Officers, let it be proclaimed from Thebes to the sea, that on the third day from now at the hour of noon in the temple of Hathor in this city, the Prince, the Royal Heir, Seti Meneptah, Beloved of Ra, will wed the Royal Princess of Egypt, Lily of Love, Beloved of Hathor, Userti, Daughter of me, the god." "Life! Blood! Strength!" called all the Court.
Then, guided by some high officer, the Prince Seti was led before the throne and the Princess Userti was set beside him, or rather facing him.
According to the ancient custom a great gold cup was brought and filled with red wine, to me it looked like blood.