"His command is puzzling. Am I to become a messenger for the gods?"
"The first messenger was a nobleman," the old courier explained in a conciliatory tone, "and the holy father spoke of thy fidelity and despatch."
"Mine uncle is gracious. Salute him for me and tell him I obey."
The old man bowed once more and withdrew.
When Kenkenes crossed the court a little time later he met his father.
"The Lady Senci brings me news that makes me envious," Mentu began at once, "and shames me because of thee!"
Kenkenes lifted an expressive brow at this unexpected onslaught. "Nay, now, what have I done?"
"Nothing!" Mentu asserted emphatically; "and for that reason am I wroth. The Lady Senci's nephew, Hotep, is the new chief of the royal scribes."
"I call that good tidings," Kenkenes replied, a cheerful note in his voice, "and worth greeting with a health to Hotep. But thou must remember, my father, that he is older than I."
"How much?" the elder sculptor asked.