Could it be that this soulless
man had scruples against giving him Masanath? But Har-hat, allowed a
chance to leave the prince if he would, had not moved. Rameses
understood the act. The fan-bearer was awaiting a propitious
opportunity to name his price gracefully. The momentary warmth of
respect died in the prince's heart.
"Out with it," he insisted more calmly. "What is it? Power, wealth or
a wife? These three things I have to give thee. Take thy choice."
"I would have thee use me respectfully, reverently," Har-hat retorted
warmly. "I would have thee speak favorably of me; I would have thee do
me no injustice by deed or word, nor peril my standing with the king!
This I demand of thee--I will not buy it!"
"To be plain," Rameses continued placidly, "thou wouldst insure to
thyself the position of fan-bearer. Say on."
"I am fan-bearer to the king," Har-hat continued with a show of
increasing heat, "and I would fill mine office. If thou art to be his
adviser in my stead, do thou take up the plumes, and I will return to
Bubastis."
"Once again I shall interpret. I am to keep silence in the council
chamber and resign to thee the molding of my plastic father. It is
well, for I am not pleased with ruling before I wear the crown.
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