I was ordered to return to Thebes, to the prisoners of war who were building the great temple of Amon over yonder, and as I had brought home some money, and it would take a good while to finish the great dwelling of the king of the Gods, I thought of taking a wife; but no Egyptian.

Of daughters of paraschites there were plenty; but I wanted to get away out of my father's accursed caste, and the other girls here, as I knew, were afraid of our uncleanness.

In the low country I had done better, and many an Amu and Schasu woman had gladly come to my tent.

From the beginning I had set my mind on an Asiatic.
"Many a time maidens taken prisoners in war were brought to be sold, but either they did not please me, or they were too dear.

Meantime my money melted away, for we enjoyed life in the time of rest which followed the working hours.