"By the Holy One—no!" cried Ameni.
And yet Pentaur is sincere, and inclined to faith," said the old man doubtfully.
"I know it," returned Ameni. "It happened as he said. But who did it, and who told him of the shameful deed?"
Both the priests stood thoughtfully gazing at the floor.
Ameni first broke the silence.
"Pentaur came in with Nebsecht," he exclaimed, "and they are intimate friends. Where was the leech while I was staying in Thebes?"
"He was taking care of the child hurt by Bent-Anat—the child of the paraschites Pinem, and he stayed there three days," replied Gagabu.
"And it was Pinem," said Ameni, "that opened the body of Rui! Now I know who has dimmed Pentaur's faith. It was that inquisitive stutterer, and he shall be made to repent of it. For the present let us think of to-morrow's feast, but the day after I will examine that nice couple, and will act with iron severity."
"First let us examine the naturalist in private," said Gagabu. "He is an ornament to the temple, for he has investigated many matters, and his dexterity is wonderful."
"All that may be considered Ameni said, interrupting the old enough to think of at present."