And, learned Ana, I did not forget you.

Knowing well that everything would be gone before you returned I spoke your name in the ear of his Highness, offering to keep your gift." "Indeed, Pambasa, and what did he say ?" "He said that he was keeping it himself.

When I stared wondering what it might be, for I saw nothing on him, he added, 'It is here,' and touched the private signet guard that he has always worn, an ancient ring of gold, but of no great value I should say, with 'Beloved of Thoth and of the King' cut upon it.

It seems that he must take it off to make room for another and much finer ring which her Highness has given him." Now, by this time, the ass having been unloaded by the slaves and led away, we had passed through the hall where many were idling as ever, and were come to the private apartments of the palace.
"This way," said Pambasa.

"The orders are that I am to take you to the Prince wherever he may be, and just now he is seated in the great apartment with her Highness, where they have been receiving homage and deputations from distant cities.