Then, somewhat soothed, he retired from the hall into his own office, to
find himself face to face with Abi, who was waiting for him. So changed
was the Prince from his old, portly self, so aged and thin and miserable
did he look, that in the dusk of that chamber Kaku failed to recognise
him. Thinking that he was some suppliant, he began to revile him and
order him to be gone. Then the fury of Abi broke out.
Rushing at him, he seized the astrologer by the beard and smote him on
the ears, saying: "Dog, is it thus that you speak to your king? Well, on
you at least I can revenge myself."
"Pardon, your Majesty," said Kaku, "I did not know you in these shadows.
Your Majesty is changed of late."
"Changed!" said Abi, letting him go. "Who would not be changed who
suffers as I do ever since I listened to your cursed counsel, and tried
to climb into the seat of Pharaoh? Before that I was happy. I had my
sons, I had my wives, as many as I wished. I had my revenues and armies.
Now everything has gone.
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