Also we were told that the new King of this city loved good singing,
and my companion, who sings and harps, learned her art in Egypt, even at
Thebes the holy. But who are you, Sir, that question us?"
"Lady," answered Rames, "I am an Egyptian who holds this town on behalf
of the Queen of Egypt whom once I knew. Or perhaps I should say that I
hold it on behalf of the Pharaoh of Egypt, since my spies tell me that
the Star of Amen has taken Abi, Prince of Memphis, to husband, although
they add that he finds her a masterful wife," and he laughed bitterly.
"Sir," replied Asti, "it is long since we left holy Thebes, some years
indeed, and we know nothing of these things, who ply our trade from
place to place. But if you are the governor of this town, show us, we
pray you, as countrywomen of yours, where we may lodge in safety, and
at your leisure this afternoon permit that we exhibit our pearls before
you, and when that is done, and you have bought or refused them, as you
may wish, that my companion should sing to you some of the ancient songs
of Egypt.
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