"Because he is viceroy," answered Istubar.
"Have I not been viceroy of my lord?"
"But he will be king, and Thou wilt not."
"What are the ambassadors of the most mighty King Assar discussing?" inquired the prince, now satisfied, of the interpreter.
"This: whether they are to show thy worthiness the gifts intended for the pharaoh, or only to give those sent to thee," replied the dexterous interpreter.
"I wish to see the gifts intended for his holiness my father," said the prince, "and I permit the ambassadors to rise."
Sargon rose, purple from rage or weariness, and sat down on the floor cross-legged.
"I knew not," said he, "that I, a relative and an ambassador of the great Assar, should be forced to wipe with my garments dust from the pavement of an Egyptian viceroy."
Mentezufis knew Assyrian, and commanded, without asking Ramses, to bring immediately two benches covered with cushions, on which sat at once the panting Sargon and the calm Istubar.
When Sargon had puffed himself quiet, he gave command to produce a great glass goblet, a steel sword, and to lead up before the entrance two horses decked with gold housings. When his command was obeyed he rose and, inclining, addressed Ramses,