I ask that however strait may be the circumstances, whatever
reasons of State may push you on, while I live you will take no other
man to husband--no, not even if he offers you half the world in dower."
"I give it," she answered. "If you should learn that I am wed to any man
upon the earth then spit upon my name as a woman, and as Queen cast me
off and overthrow me if you can. Deal with me, Rames, as in such a case
I will deal with you. Only be sure of your tidings ere you believe them.
Now there is nothing more to say. Farewell to you, Rames, till we meet
again beneath or beyond the sun. Our royal pact is made. Come, seal it
and begone."
She rose and stretched out her sceptre to him, which he kissed as her
faithful subject. Next, with a swift movement, she lifted the golden
_uraeus_ circlet from her brow and for a moment set it on his head,
crowning him her king, and while it rested there she, the Queen of
Egypt, bent the knee before him and did him homage. Then she cast down
crown and sceptre, and as woman fell upon her lover's breast while
the bright rays of morning, flowing suddenly through the eastern
window-place of that splendid hall, struck upon them both, clothing them
in a robe of glory and of flame.
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