Tutmosis looked at the prince with astonishment.
"What has happened to thee, Erpatr?" asked he.
"Here is a miracle not described, I think, in the chronicles of any temple. But think, Tutmosis: When Thou art most occupied with the problem of catching the thief who is always plundering thee, that same thief puts his hand again into thy casket before thy eyes, in presence of a thousand witnesses. Ha! ha! ha! Sargon, a pious pilgrim!"
"I understand nothing," whispered Tutmosis, in anxiety.
"And Thou hast no need to understand," replied the viceroy. "Remember only that Sargon has come hither for devotional purposes."
"It seems to me that everything of which Thou art speaking," said
Tutmosis, lowering his voice, "is very dangerous."
"Then do not mention it to any one."
"I will not; but art Thou sure that Thou thyself, prince, wilt not betray the secret? Thou art as quick as lightning."
The prince placed his hand on the courtier's shoulder.
"Be at rest," said he, looking him in the eyes. "If ye will only be loyal to me, ye, the nobles, and the army, ye will see wonderful things, and, as regards you, evil times will be ended."