Be pleased to enter my house, Lady, fearing nothing, for there you shall be well lodged and given of the best that Sidon has to offer,
said Tenes.
I thank you,
I answered, bowing and letting fall my veil, and I doubt it not, for what less than her best could Sidon give to the Daughter of Isis, the Queen of Heaven?
Yes, thus I answered proudly, I who played a great game and staked all upon a throw.
Here we have another Queen of Heaven and she is not named Isis,
I heard one of the dark-browed priests mutter to a companion, thinking that I did not understand his words.
They led me into a glorious dwelling wherein were chambers more splendid than any that I had seen in my journeys through the Eastern world. Gold and gems were everywhere and on the walls hung priceless trappings dyed with the Tyrian purple of that costly sort to use which is the prerogative of kings. The very carpets on the floors shone like silk and were woven to things of beauty, while the lamps seemed to be hollowed from great gems.
Who lodges in this place?
I asked of a slave when I was alone.
Who but the Queen Beltis, divine one,
answered the slave, bowing low before me.
Where then is the Queen Beltis? I see her not.
Nay, divine one, she visits her father at Jerusalem, whence she should return shortly. Indeed, the King has issued orders that other chambers should be prepared for her against her coming.
Is it so?
I replied indifferently, but within my heart I wondered what this queen would say when she came to find her palace inhabited by a stranger and a rival.
Then to the sound of sweet music I ate from
