"If that be so, we will eat elsewhere," Alexander answered, frowning and looking askance at the Tyrian.
"If you will permit me to manage it," Thais said, "Phradates shall furnish the feast."
"Who is he?" Alexander asked.
"He was our captor here," Thais replied, "and he is a man of some good qualities, though he has others also."
"He is the messenger whom you sent from Thebes to carry word to King Azemilcus of your coming," Clearchus explained.
"I remember," Alexander said. "I would like to see him again and ask him whether he delivered the message. So be it, then."
Bidding the Companions follow, Alexander suffered Thais to lead him to the house of Phradates. It was still closed and silent, but Chares and Clearchus beat upon the door with their sword-hilts and demanded admittance in the name of Alexander. Mena, recognizing the king through the wicket, thought it best to open, since he knew that resistance would be in vain. The door swung back, and he prostrated himself at Alexander's feet.
"Welcome, O son of Philip," he said. "The house of my master and all that was his belong to the Conqueror of the Earth."
"Where is he that he does not himself receive me?" Alexander demanded.
"Alas, he is dead!" the Egyptian answered. "He received a fatal wound while fighting on the walls, and they brought him home. He died in my arms."