"In the daytime?"
"In the night," replied the prince; and he stopped.
"At night the prince heard speeches of the gods, and felt their hands," replied the Phoenician, emphasizing word after word. "At night it is possible to see many things. What happened?"
"In the temple I was seized by the head, by the shoulders, by the legs; and I swear
"Phst!" interrupted Hiram, with a smile. "It is not proper to swear in vain."
He looked fixedly at Ramses with his quick and wise eyes, and seeing that doubt was rising in the young man, he continued,
"I will tell thee something, lord. Thou art inexperienced, though surrounded by a net of intrigues, but I have been the friend of thy grandfather and thy father. Now I will render thee a service: Come in the night to the temple of Astaroth, but bind thyself to keep the secret. Come alone, and Thou wilt be convinced as to who the gods are who speak in the temples and touch us."
"I will come," said Ramses, after some meditation.
"Forewarn me, prince, on the morning of the day, and I will give thee the evening password; Thou wilt be admitted. Only betray neither me nor thyself," said the Phoenician, with a kindly smile. "Men never pardon betrayal of their secrets, though gods pardon sometimes." He bowed, raised his eyes and hands, while he whispered a blessing.
"Deceivers!" cried the prince. "Thou prayest to gods, and dost not believe in them."