Page:Anthology of Modern Slavonic Literature in Prose and Verse by Paul Selver.djvu/104

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BOLESLAW PRUS

for the first time with the pride of greatness, even as the ocean, coursing forward, smites against a steep shore.

"And what betoken yonder lights?" asked Horus further.

"The priests have entered into the grave of thy mother, Zefora, that they may bear her mortal remains unto the catacombs of the Pharaohs."

In the heart of Horus was aroused once again grief for his mother, whose remains the grim Rameses had buried amid the slaves because of the mercy she displayed towards the slaves.

"I hear the neighing of horses," said Horus, as he listened intently. "Who is riding forth at this hour?"

"The chamberlain, lord, has given orders to make ready the envoys unto Jetron, thy preceptor."

Horus sighed at the recollection of his beloved preceptor, whom Rameses had driven out of the country for having inculcated into the soul of his grandson and successor a loathing for wars, and compassion for the downtrodden people. "And yonder small light beyond the Nile?"

"By means of yonder small light, O Horus," replied the courtier, "faithful Berenice greets thee from her cloistered captivity. The high priest has already dispatched the vessel of the Pharaohs for her; and when the sacred ring