But I shall write to him what I have today heard said by different people.

They were to have sworn allegiance to Ani at that very feast in the valley, and it is quite openly said that Ani is aiming at the throne, and intends to depose the king.

You are right, it is madness--but there must be something behind it all." Nefert turned pale, and Bent-Anat asked for particulars.

The prince repeated all he had gathered, and added laughing: "Ani depose my father! It is as if I tried to snatch the star of Isis from the sky to light the lamps--which are much wanted here." "It is more comfortable in the dark," said Nefert.

"No, let us have lights," said Bent-Anat.