Page:The land of enchantment (1907, Cassell).djvu/70

 “susurrus ” (as the Romans called it) of the wind in the trees and the reeds—these and a thousand other beautiful trifles kept Harry’s eyes and ears employed. He was intently gazing at a splendid water-beetle when he became aware of Herodotus’ presence, and sprang to his feet.

“That’s all right,” he said. “I am so glad to see you again, Herodotus.”

“Thou hast ever a warm greeting,” replied the Greek, smiling. “But methinks thou shouldst not sit on the damp grass. For myself, I fear it greatly, for I am no longer young, and the ills of old age may soon come upon me.”

“Hm,” replied Harry. “You’re right. Old Nurse would be in a fit if she knew. Shall we sit on that log—I believe it’s quite dry?”

Herodotus approved the idea, and Harry was soon astride of the log, gazing anxiously into Herodotus’ face.

“I believe you're leaving soon,” he burst out.

“Thou hast guessed rightly,” replied Herodotus. “I can, indeed, give thee but one day more.”

“Oh, what rot!” cried Harry, and his face fell.

“I am as grieved as thou art; but as I have often told thee, it is foolish to repine at the inevitable, and I may return again some day. Moreover, let us not waste time now, for I have much to tell thee today.”

Harry tried to look cheerful, and prepared to listen.

“I have yet more to tell thee-of Amasis, the last king of Egypt of whom I spoke. It was in his reign that it came into the mind of Cambyses, the Persian, to invade Egypt. They give various reasons for the invasion, Some say that Cyrus, Cambyses’ father——”

“Oh, yes, I remember Cyrus. He conquered Babylon, and was killed in that battle against some queen or other, wasn’t he?”

“Yes, Tomyris, Queen of the Massagetans. I am glad thou hast not forgotten Cyrus. Well, Cyrus sent to ask Amasis for his most skilful eye-doctor, and the man whom Amasis selected was exceedingly wroth at having to leave his wife and children. So in revenge he advised Cambyses to ask Amasis for his daughter in marriage. Amasis did not wish to send her, and consequently he played a trick on Cambyses. He loaded the daughter of the late king, Apries—her name was Nitētis, and she was very beautiful—with jewels and fine robes, and sent her to Cambyses. For some time Nitētis did not betray Amasis, but one