" `The language as it is spoken, yes, I do know it. But if by the writing you mean the old
picture writing, no, I can't read it. I don't know anyone who can read it. I've heard that even the old Egyptian priests can't read it. Half the texts they copy they can't decipher.'
"He laughed in the strangest way. I couldn't tell whether this was exciting him or he knew something I didn't know. He appeared to take a deep breath, his nostrils dilating a little. And then his face cooled. He was actually a splendid-looking man.
" `The gods can read it,' he whispered.
"'Well, I wish they'd teach it to me,' I said pleasantly.
"`You do!' he said in an astonished gasp. He leant forward over the table. `Say this again!'
"'I was joking,' I said. 'I only meant I wished I could read the old Egyptian wr
