The uproar of the people ceased suddenly, and only the pounding of the beams against the bronze gate was audible. But soon even that ceased.
"Open the gate!" cried the giant from below. "We wish to see if ye are forging treason against the pharaoh."
"My son," replied Herhor, "fall on thy face and implore the gods to forgive thee thy sacrilege."
"Ask Thou the gods to shield thee!" cried the leader of the band, and taking a stone he threw it toward the high priest.
At the same time, from a window of the pylon shot out a small stream which seemed to be water, and which struck the giant's face. The bandit tottered, threw up his hands, and fell.
Those nearest him gave out a cry of fear, whereupon the farther ranks, not seeing what had happened, answered with laughter and curses.
"Break down the gate!" was heard from the end of the crowd, and a volley of stones flew in the direction of Herhor and his retinue.
Herhor raised both hands, and when the crowd had grown silent again the high priest shouted,
"O gods! into your protection I give these sacred retreats, against which blasphemers and traitors are advancing!"
A moment later, somewhere above the temple, an unearthly voice was heard,