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"My son," said the High Priest, "go to the home of the Princess

and remain, either with, or near her until three cycles of seven

shall pass by. At the end of twenty-one days you may return to

your own home and enter the accustomed life of a Prince, until

that time shall come when the Prince of the world shall enter the

path that leads to a King of Wisdom," and with a fervent press of

the hand and a benediction for his soul's welfare he bid him

good-night and retired from the Holy Sanctuary.

CHAPTER VII.

A VISIT TO THE CHIEF ASTROLOGER.

A few weeks after the preceding ceremonies, a messenger announced

to the Astrologer Priest that the Priestess sought an interview.

Hermo was at his post making the usual, daily calculations for

the Priest. As the Priestess entered, Hermo arose, and was about

to withdraw, when the Priestess, by a wave of her hand, gave him

to understand his presence was required.