Loi entered, bowing and walking with palsied step. At one time the
three central figures of the hall had been his pupils. He had taught
them from the simplest hieratic catechism to the initiation into the
mysteries. As novices they had kissed his hand and borne him
reverence. Now as the initiated, exalted through the acquisition of
power, it lay with them to reverse conditions if they pleased. But as
the old prelate prepared to do obeisance before Meneptah, he was stayed
with a gesture, and after a word of greeting was dismissed to his
place. Rameses saluted him with a motion of his hand and Har-hat bowed
reverently. The pontiff backed away to the great council table set
opposite the throne and was met there by a courtier with a chair.

At a sign from the king, who had already sunk into his throne, the old
man sat.

"Thou bringest us tidings, holy Father?"

"Even so, O Son of Ptah."

"Say on."

The priest moved a little uncomfortably and glanced at the ministers
grouped in the shadows.

"Save for the worthy Har-hat and our prince, O my King, thou hast no
need of great council," he said.

Meneptah raised his hand and the supernumerary ministers left the
chamber. When they were gone, Loi unwrapped the roll Kenkenes had