made of mighty slabs of stone laid flat from column to column. The central aisle is open at the back, and beyond it is a long avenue of sphinxes facing each other, and ending in a great temple. The side aisles seem protracted endlessly, and the light under them gets dimmer as the distance increases, until it finally becomes a greenish mystery.
On the left, in front, the Pharaoh's throne is raised upon a platform to which seven steps ascend.
The columns are covered with hieroglyphics in bright colors. The floor is hidden under rich carpets and rugs. There are incense-burners at the foot of every pillar.
The light at the back, outside the hall, is dazzling white. The central aisle is full of rich amber sunlight; the side aisles are in shadow. Outside the hall there is a constant passing to and fro of the traffic of a city. Now a noble rides up on a charger, followed by his slaves, who help him to dismount, and he enters the hall; then a richly clad LADY is led on in a chariot drawn by horses, and as she descends an admiring CROWD gathers round her. Presently a procession of PRIESTS moves by, chanting. A CHIEFTAIN from a distant province rides up on a camel, followed by his bodyguard of armed RETAINERS.
Within the hall NOBLES and LADIES are assembled. Some are moving about; some seated on low chairs; some are playing dice; some are obviously flirting.
There is a continuous sound of vague music throughout the act.
SHEPSET. How fareth great Usertesen, the Pharaoh, today?
DEDEFRE. His brow hangeth heavy.
