[2573] Built by King Cheops, according to Herodotus, B. ii.
[2574] All these writers are mentioned in the list of authors at the end of the present [Book].
[2575] For the use of the workmen. There is, probably, no foundation for a statement so exact as this; as it would be very singular that such a fact should continue to be known, and the names of the builders be buried in oblivion.
[2576] According to modern measurement, the sides of its base measure at the foundation 763 feet 4 inches, and it occupies a space of more than 13 acres. Its perpendicular height is 480 feet.
[2577] Other readings are 883, and 783.
[2578] Differing very considerably from the modern measurement. These variations may possibly arise, however, from a large portion of the base being covered with sand.
[2579] It was entirely coated with marble from the Thebaid; which, however, was removed by the Arabs in the middle ages. In the vicinity there is a fourth pyramid, but of such small dimensions that some of the Egyptian obelisks exceed it in height.
[2580] “Nitrum.” See B. xxxi. c. 46.
[2581] From this reason being given, it would almost appear that these “bridges” in reality were aqueducts, for conveying the water, in order to melt the mounds of salt and nitre.
[2582] A very improbable story, as Ajasson remarks; as if the method of ascertaining the heights of edifices was unknown to the sages of Egypt, and the constructors of the Pyramids!