The Tour · Chapters

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Chapter companions for The Tour by Louis Couperus.

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Chapter 1
Translator's Note
The translator acknowledges contributions from friends John Sargeaunt and Stephen McKenna, noting the latter's translation of the 'Hymn to Aphrodite' and general assistance. The note is dated Crowborough, 10 July 1920.
Chapter 2
The Tour
A group of travelers, including Lucius and his companions, embark on a guided tour through the wonders of ancient Egypt, visiting temples, monuments, and sacred sites while reflecting on the history and mythology of the land.
Chapter 3
I
On a windless, starry night, the Roman nobleman Publius Lucius Sabinus sails on his quadrireme, surrounded by music from rowers, sailors, and a singer. He is consumed by grief over the disappearance of his beloved slave Ilia three months earlier. After a moment of respite, he summons his old tutor Thrasyllus to apologize for a past outburst. Thrasyllus forgives him, but Lucius's sorrow erupts again as he cries out for Ilia, causing the ship's music to fall silent before it resumes.
Chapter 4
II
Lucius is grief-stricken over the disappearance of Ilia, believing she was kidnapped by pirates, while his tutor Thrasyllus and uncle Catullus know she actually ran away with Carus the Cypriote. As they sail toward Alexandria, Thrasyllus tries to console Lucius, Catullus complains about his poverty and the monotony of Roman life, and Cora, a Greek slave bought for her voice, longs to be noticed by Lucius. The chapter ends with Cora examining her own beauty in a mirror before retiring to her crowded slave quarters.
Chapter 5
III
Lucius arrives in Alexandria with his uncle Catullus and tutor Thrasyllus. He is met by his steward Vettius and the Sabaean innkeeper Ghizla, who arranges luxurious lodgings. Despite the city's splendor, Lucius is consumed by grief over the disappearance of his beloved slave Ilia. The group tours the city, visiting the Museum and the Soma, guided by Ghizla's younger brother Caleb, a flamboyant and talkative young man.

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Translator's Note

The Tour

I

II

III