"It seems to me, too," continued Tutmosis, "that since Thou hast commanded Pentuer to investigate the condition of earth-tillers and laborers the priests are exciting the nomarchs and nobles. They say that it is thy wish to ruin the nobility for the sake of the people."
"But do the nobles believe that?"
"There are some who believe, but there are others who say directly that it is an intrigue of the priests against the pharaoh."
"But if I wish indeed to improve the condition of earth-tillers?"
"Thou wilt do, lord, that which pleases thee," answered Tutmosis.
"Oh, I understand my position!" exclaimed Ramses. "Be at rest, and tell the nobility that not only will they lose nothing in carrying out my orders, but their own condition will be improved notably. The wealth of Egypt must be taken at last from the hands of the unworthy and given to faithful servants."
The pharaoh dismissed his adjutant and went to rest satisfied. His temporary despair seemed to him laughable.
About noon of the following day it was announced that a deputation of
Phoenician merchants had come to his holiness.
"Do they wish to complain of the attack on their houses?" inquired the pharaoh.
"No," replied the adjutant, "they wish to offer thee homage."