LETTER XI.

The beautiful Isle of Rhoda--Prince Mœris and his favorite lion--Refinement of Egyptians--Polite observances at the reception of visitors--Parting between Queen Amense and Remeses--Military emblems--Magnificent display of the Egyptian "tented hosts"--Striking religious and military display of the army--Columns formed of trophies taken in battle--The chief priest of Mars--His gorgeous attire and imposing ceremonies--Gigantic statue of Mars, in full armor--Offerings of the soldiers--Invocation by the High-priest--Libations for the army--Clouds of incense--Appearance of the beautiful daughters of the priest--The musical sistrum--Sacred offices in the temple filled by women--The Virgins of the Sun--Social position of Egyptian women--Thrilling martial hymn chaunted by the priests, the army, and the maiden--Sacrifice--Remeses reviews the army--Ethiopia--Description of an Egyptian army; its tactics and weapons--The nations composing it--pp. 173-190.