"Deign to remember, holiness," explained he, "that for twenty-four hours Egypt has been deprived of its legal ruler. Meanwhile some one had to wake and put to sleep the god Osiris, to impart blessings to the people and render homage to the ancestors of the pharaoh."
"In such a grievous time the supreme council commanded me to wear this holy relic, so that the order of the state and the service of the gods might not be neglected. But the moment that we have a lawful and mighty ruler I set aside the wondrous relic."
Then Herhor took from his head the miter adorned with the ureus, and gave it to the high priest Mefres.
The threatening face of the pharaoh grew calm, and he turned his steps toward the throne.
Suddenly the holy Mefres barred the way, and said while bending to the pavement,
"Deign, holy lord, to hear my most submissive prayer."
But neither in his voice nor his eyes was there submission when, straightening himself, he continued,
"I have words from the supreme council of high priests."
"Utter them," said the pharaoh.
"It is known to thee, holiness, that a pharaoh who has not received ordination as high priest cannot perform the highest sacrifices; that is, dress and undress the miraculous Osiris."