"Thou art undoubtedly Beroes, the high priest and sage of Babylon, whose coming was announced to us a year ago," answered Mefres.
"Thou hast told truth," said the Chaldean.
He embraced them in turn, and they inclined before him.
"I bring you great words from our common fatherland, which is Wisdom," said Beroes. "Be pleased to listen and act as is needful."
At a sign from Herhor, Pentuer withdrew to the rear of the cave and brought out three armchairs of light wood for his superiors, and a low stool for his own use. He seated himself near the lamp, and took from his bosom a small dagger and wax-covered tablets.
When all three had occupied their chairs, the Chaldean began,
"Mefres, the highest college of priests in Babylon addresses thee: 'The sacred order of priests in Egypt is falling. Many priests collect money and women, and pass their lives amid pleasure. Wisdom is neglected. Ye have no power over the world, which is invisible. Ye have no power over your own souls. Some of you have lost the highest faith, and the future is concealed from you. Things worse than this even happen; for many priests, feeling that their spiritual power is exhausted, have entered the way of falsehood and deceive simple people by cunning devices.'
"The highest college says this: 'If ye wish to return to the good road,
Beroes will remain some years with you, so as to rouse true light on
the Nile by the aid of a spark brought from the high altar of
Babylon.'."
"All is as Thou sayest," answered Mefres, confused. "Remain with us therefore a number of years, so that the youth growing up at present may remember thy wisdom."
"And now, Herhor, to thee come words from the highest college."