"Certainly not," cried Darius.
"It is impossible to say," murmured Bubares. "In this country one can never know what may happen."
"How long does it take for a good horse to reach Naukratis?"
"Three hours, if he can go so long, and the Nile has not overflowed the road too much."
"I will be there in two."
"I shall ride with you," said Darius.
"No, you must remain here with Zopyrus for Bartja's protection. Tell the servants to get ready."
"But Gyges--"
"Yes, you will stay here and excuse me to Amasis. Say I could not come to the evening revel on account of headache, toothache, sickness, anything you like."
"I shall ride Bartja's Nicaean horse; and you, Bubares, will follow me on Darius's. You will lend him, my brother?"
"If I had ten thousand, you should have them all."
"Do you know the way to Naukratis, Bubares?"
"Blindfold."
"Then go, Darius, and tell them to get your horse and Bartja's ready! To linger would be sin. Farewell Darius, perhaps forever! Protect Bartja! Once more, farewell!"