Page:The Pharaohs and their people; scenes of old Egyptian life and history (IA pharaohstheirpeo00berkiala).pdf/78

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STORY OF SANEHA.

word, giving the Egyptian exile lands and possessions and marrying him to his eldest daughter. For many years Saneha dwelt in the strange country, and saw his children grow up around him. Nor was he unmindful of his own past sufferings, but was ever ready to 'give water to the thirsty and set the wanderer in the way.' He aided the king also against his enemies, so that, 'beholding the valour of his arm,' he made him chief amongst his children. Presently Saneha receives a challenge from a certain strong man, hitherto undisputed champion of the Tennu. The prospect of this single combat excited intense interest. All Tennu assembled to behold it, and 'every heart was sorry for Saneha,' who was to encounter so redoubtable a foe. But of course Saneha triumphs, and obtains possession of his enemy's person and goods. 'I got great treasure and wealth, I got much cattle.'

In spite of riches and renown and royal favour, the heart of the exile grows sad; old age is at hand, and an irrepressible longing after home and native land seizes upon him. He ventures to approach the all-powerful King