Egypt - 8. Chapter 8

Arriving home, Dr. McLavic assumed his position at the University, This would be his last year and in fact his last term. Steven stood for his doctorate and was approved. If Dr. McLavic had his way, Steven would take over his position as Dean of the University’s Department of Archeology. He was familiar with their expeditions in Peru, Mexico and now Egypt.

Life resumed its usual patterns. One month after returning home, Jim came and invited him to a new exhibit in the University’s museum. Dr. McLavic had an idea that it probably had something to do with the Egypt trip. Walking into the museum, Jim asked him to close his eyes. Dr. McLavic (David) now knew that he would see an extraordinary exhibit. Jim told him to open his eyes. Dr. McLavic saw the walls filled with photos that Steven and the other students had taken.

“This is like living the whole expedition all over again.”

“That isn’t the best part. Look at this.” Jim pulled aside a curtain and there was the sarcophagus of Queen Hetephernebti.

At the head and foot of the sarcophagus were the clay Egyptian guards and maidens from the Queen’s room at the pyramid along with some of the containers holding her belongings for her trip to the afterlife.

“Jim, how did you get all of this?”

“Remember I told you about the museum in England that arranged a rental of relics? That was what I did. I contacted Dr. Al Khatib and arranged for the rental of the sarcophagus. I wanted the king but he said this is the best he could do. The King has to remain in Egypt.”

News of the new Egyptian exhibit spread quickly through the University and then the town. From there, the news spread among several Universities and the world. Jim was excited, he was receiving requests for private shows from other Universities.

There was one more photo to be taken and added to the collection of exhibition photos. Dr. McLavic and his team posed for a very special photo, standing around the Queen’s sarcophagus.

Epilogue

Dr. McLavic had completed his original Egyptian expedition. He has retired from the University and began to write his memoirs while spending more time with his family and friends. His memoriam rests in Jim’s museum.

Now that he had time, he planned on spending that time with his son, David, and his brother. Beth and her family provided the closeness that he would have missed. He has learned that Grandfathers have a special place among family. He still felt some remorse whenever he visits his wife’s grave. Originally he blamed himself, but over time and with support from those that knew her, he learned that she was broken from the beginning. But he loved her and she gave him three children that he was proud of.

Looking up, he saw Jimmy coming. The boy was always full of excitement. I knew something was up. I wondered what I would be asked to do.

“Doctor, I heard you might take a trip East; The Great White Father in the sky said I should go with you. To protect you.”

I couldn’t help it. I started to laugh. I went to grab him but he took off running, yelling, “I’m packed.”