_Nouferou_ (_seizes the image of Aahmes and shrieks_). Then let Aahmes die! (_She shatters it on the ground and rushes out, Ouny hastens to replace it._) _Ranoutet_ (_sternly_). Go, bring the meaning of this clamour. (_Ouny goes._) _Ranoutet_ (_gathering together the pieces of the image_). This deed brings judgment, for it shows that the hour is come when the Truth that is eternal and the Truth that is of time will divide the ways of Aahmes. As the semblance of Aahmes is broken, so shall the soul of Aahmes be broken, and the victory be to the flesh alone. O Lady Hathor! thou hast given this deed as a sign and an omen. Nouferou has shattered the semblance of Aahmes, and has broken up the waters of his soul! They no longer reflect the divine image; but the troubled fantasies of love and human life. Verily Thy judgments are keen and sudden as the lightnings in heaven, and the thunders of Thy punishments make the earth shake in fear! The ways wherein Thou comest and goest are tremendous, and no foot but Thine may tread them! _Ouny_ (_returning_). Through the crowd I saw the father of Nouferou driving in his chariot with white horses, and he stopped before the gates of the temple and asked for her, and she came out from between the gates doing obeisance to him. She is white and tall, and the crowd rejoiced to see her; but her father had no smile for her, and took her into his chariot and made his way through the people, the horses plunging and scattering them; and I saw her no more. _Ranoutet._ That is well; let him look to her. (_Shouts of_ Aahmes! _outside_.) _Ouny._ The people shout because great Aahmes is in the midst of them. Their voice is like the hoarse note of the marsh-birds. He comes that you should bless the victory. (_Enter Aahmes. Kneels at Ranoutet’s feet._) _Aahmes._ O Priestess of Hathor, smite me across the mouth that I may be dumb, for I am not worthy to speak in the temple! Take away my ears from me, that I may no longer hear the voice of Hathor; that terrible voice which carries judgment: for I have failed in the great trial. _Ranoutet._ This plant of failure, Aahmes, which you have sown, bears a flower which to the outward seeming is of splendid colour and a sweet smell, and its name is Power. Put it upon your heart, and be strong to rule our people; but know that such a blossom is arid, and holds no promise of immortal fruit. Have power and the ruling of the kingdom, but have sorrow also, and eternal grief; because the doors of Hathor’s sanctuary open to you no more. SLOW CURTAIN. ------------------------------------------------------------------------