Evaluating the Evidence 2.1: The Report of Wenamun describes the trip of an Egyptian official to purchase Lebanese wood in order to construct a ceremonial boat. In response to the official's request for lumber, the Phoenician trader replied as follows: "If you pay me for doing it, I will do it. My relations carried out this business after Pharaoh had sent six ships laden with the goods of Egypt, and they had been unloaded into their storehouses. You, what have you brought for me? . . . What are these foolish travels they made you do?" What does this reply suggest about Egypt's wealth and status?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Phoenician trader's response suggests that Egypt's wealth and status had declined since they had to send an official to negotiate the purchase of wooden logs instead of simply sending goods, as they had done before. The trader's comment "What are these foolish travels they made you do?" implies that the official's trip was unnecessary and a waste of resources. Therefore, the best choice is B, which implies that Egypt's wealth and power had declined.