First, it is because the Prince is different to other men and in his own fashion above them, yes, far above any with whom I could have wed as royal heiress of Egypt.

Secondly, because being cut off from love, what remains to me but ambition?
At least I would be a great queen, as was Hatshepu in her day, and lift my country out of the many troubles in which it is sunk and write my name large upon the books of history, which I could only do by taking Pharaoh's heir to husband, as is my duty." She brooded a while, then added, "Now I have shown you all my thought.
Whether I have been wise to do so the gods know alone and time will tell me." "Princess," I said, "I thank you for trusting me and I will help you if I may.

Yet I am troubled.

I, a humble man if of good blood, who a little while ago was but a scribe and a student, a dreamer who had known trouble also, have suddenly by chance, or some divine decree, been lifted high in the favour of the heir of Egypt, and it would seem have even won your trust.

Now I wonder how I shall bear myself in this new place which in truth I never sought." "I do not know, who find the present and its troubles enough to carry.
But, doubtless, the decree of which you speak that set you there has also written down what will be the end of all.