High Priest. I think like you. Travellers learn too much. Yet am I hopeful. I shall bring him back to our gods.
The Pharaoh. You will fail.
High Priest. He who for long has breathed the air of temples can never wholly clear his breast of it. If he give way, he shall never leave the house of the Gods again, if he be still rebellious, he shall leave to go to his death.
The Pharaoh. I order you to give Satni up to me.
High Priest. I would I might bow to your will. But he is a priest: his life is sacred. And I may not transgress the orders given me by the Gods.
The Pharaoh. Prate not of these follies to me—do you take me for one of your priests? Obey! I command you!
High Priest. Do you take me for one of your soldiers?
The Pharaoh. I command it.
High Priest. The gods forbid.
The Pharaoh. I laugh at your gods.