"I understand," interrupted Ramses, "I am a pharaoh who has not received the ordination of high priest."
"For that reason," continued Mefres, "the supreme council begs thee submissively, holiness, to appoint a high priest to take thy place in religious functions."
When they heard these decided words, the high priests and civil dignitaries trembled and squirmed as if standing on hot stones, and the generals touched their swords as if involuntarily. The holy Mefres looked at them with unconcealed contempt, and fixed his cold glance again on the face of the pharaoh.
But the lord of the world showed no trouble even this time.
"It is well," said he, "that Thou hast reminded me, worthiness, of this important duty. The military profession and affairs of state do not permit me to occupy myself with the ceremonies of our holy religion, so I must appoint a substitute."
While speaking he looked around at the men assembled.
On the left of Herhor stood the holy Sem. Ramses glanced into his mild and honest face and inquired suddenly,
"Who and what art thou, worthiness?"
"My name is Sem; I am high priest of the temple of Ptah in Pi-Bast."
"Thou wilt be my substitute in religious ceremonies," said the pharaoh, pointing toward him with his finger.