[Exit, slowly, looking back.

Nefertiti

(Smiling to herself.) A slave is always useful—for slavish purposes. I may put you to the test some day!

[She watches him out of sight behind the palms, then goes to the water’s edge and splashes idly with her bare foot several times in succession, accompanying each splash with a remark.

He’ll bury himself in the Temple.… He’ll bury himself in my arms.… He’ll become a monk at Rames’ bidding.… He’ll become mine. (Makes biggest splash of all.) I’ve got him … under this very foot! (Hears his footstep.)

Menophis

(Entering.) You here! Nefertiti! (She pretends not to hear. She is worshipping.) Nefertiti!

Nefertiti

(Startled.) Menophis!