"Ah, ye high priests have secrets which ye may not explain to us. We will do what ye command; we will cause the attack on the 20th. But remember, on your heads be our blood and the blood of our children."
"So be it! So be it!" cried both high priests together.
Then Herhor added: "For ten years we have governed the state, and during that time no wrong has happened to any of you, and we have kept every promise; so be patient and faithful for a few days. Ye will see the might of the gods and receive your reward."
The nomarchs took farewell of the high priests, not trying even to hide their own grief and alarm. Only Herhor and Mefres remained. After a long silence Herhor said,
"Yes, that Lykon was good as long as he counterfeited the maniac. But that it should be possible to show him instead of Ramses."
"If the-mother did not detect him," answered Mefres, "the man must resemble Ramses remarkably. As to sitting on the throne and saying a few words to those present, he will do that. Moreover, we shall be there."
"A terribly stupid comedian!" sighed Herhor, rubbing his forehead.
"He is wiser than millions of other men, for he has second sight and he may render the state immense service."
"Thou art speaking continually, worthiness, of that second sight. Let me convince myself of it certainly."
"Dost Thou wish to do so?" inquired Mefres. "Well come with me. But by the gods, Herhor, mention not, even before thy own heart, what Thou shalt witness."