It would have been terrible to him to see a wretched madman instead of King Akhnaton, Joy of the Sun; but it was more terrible to find before him a happy and rational man.
"Life, strength and health to the king," he began, but his voice failed him, his knees gave way under him and, falling at the king's feet, he wept.
The king bent down and said, putting his arms round him:
"There, Mahu, don't cry. I am happy here...."
And added, after a pause:
"I am better here than at home."
Mahu was still looking intently at him, hoping to see a madman; but the king certainly was not mad, and, all at once, Mahu felt as though he himself were going out of his mind.
"What are you saying, what are you saying, sire? You are better here among thieves and murderers than among your faithful servants?"
"Yes, Mahu. My brother, do you love me? I know you love me. Do then what I ask you: tell no one about me and let me go."
"God knows, Uaenra, I would gladly give my soul for you, but it is easier for me to kill you than leave you here."