EPIC
OF KINGS
THE
EPIC
OF KINGS
HZIMMERN.
STORIES RETOLD FROM
891.58
F52
tz
FIRDUS I.
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WITH TWO ETCHINGS BY
L. ALMA TADEMA R.A.

}
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LIBRARY
1837.
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716
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THE EPIC OF KINGS

Mine
Firdausi
"
THE
21726
EPIC OF KINGS
STORIES RETOLD FROM
FIRDUSI
BY
HELEN ZIMMERN
WITH TWO ETCHINGS BY
L. ALMA TADEMA, R.A.
AND A PREFATORY POEM BY
EDMUND W. GOSSE

NE
NIS
•
LITERIS
F
VITA
MORS
EST
London
T. FISHER UNWIN
MDCCCLXXXIII
PREFACE.

T has been my endeavour in this book to
popularize the tales told by the Persian
poet Firdusi in his immortal epic. Three
circumstances have embarrassed my task:
the great length of the "Shah Nameh" (far
exceeding that of the "Iliad" and "Odyssey" together),
the English reader's ignorance of Firdusi, and my own
ignorance of Persian. The last difficulty was of less
account, as I designed a paraphrase and not a trans-
lation. All I needed, therefore, was at hand in the
form of Professor Jules Mohl's French version. This,
the only complete rendering of the "Shah Nameh"
into a European tongue, is pronounced by all scholars
to be a truly perfect piece of work, reproducing so
faithfully the very spirit of the original, that to have
read Mohl is almost to have read Firdusi. It is
little to the credit of the greatest European Power
in the East to have suffered France to be the first
to provide funds for this magnificent enterprise. Still
it is pleasant to know that the best and standard
vi
PREFACE.
version of the Persian text, which has become much
corrupted in the course of ages, is due to an English-
man, Turner Macan. That with one exception and
a few tentative efforts, no translation or adaptation
of Firdusi's immortal poem has reappeared in English
is certainly strange. The exception is an abbrevi-
ated version of the "Shah Nameh" published in
1835 by Mr. James Atkinson. His epitome was, how-
ever, not made from the original poem, but merely from
one of the numerous abridgments of it that exist in
Persian. Whether the fault be Mr. Atkinson's or that
of his forerunner, it is certain that the omission of
numerous passages and episodes seriously injures the
interest of the narrative. This version, which is half in
prose, half in verse, alternately ambitious and mono-
tonous, possesses few attractions for the general reader;
moreover, it has long been out of print. I may there-
fore be permitted to hope that it has been reserved
for me to make more widely known some of the
immortal beauties contained in Firdusi's poem. It is
obvious that my design must have necessitated con-
siderable abridgment, but I have never, I think, omitted
essential portions, and I hope that it has not suffered
too much in the process of compression. I have tried
in all cases to preserve the peculiarities of Eastern
imagery and allusion. With a view to reproduce the
naïve archaic character of the original, I have ventured
to write my stories in the simple language of the age of
PREFACE.
vii
Shakespeare and the English Bible, in order by thus
removing them from everyday speech, to remove them
from the atmosphere of to-day.
In conclusion, I have many debts of gratitude to
acknowledge. First and foremost my warmest thanks
are due to Mr. Alma Tadema, R.A., for the value he has
imparted to my book by his etchings, and for the kind
encouragement and sympathy he has given to me from
the first planning of the work. For encouragement and
sympathy I have also to thank my kind friend Mr.
Robert Browning. I am further deeply indebted to
Mr. E. W. Gosse for his prefatory poem as well as for
his kindness in reading the proofs. I am also grateful
to Miss Mary A. M. Robinson for assistance in revision
and for the metrical versions interspersed. Last, but not
least, I desire to express my obligations to Mr. Richard
Garnett of the British Museum, to whom I owe my
first introduction to the beauties of Firdusi.
HELEN ZIMMERN.
LONDON, August 1882.
CONTENTS.
INTRODUCTION
PREFATORY POEM-FIRDUSI IN EXILE
THE SHAHS OF OLD
FERIDOUN
ZAL
ZAL AND RUDABEH
RUSTEM
THE MARCH INTO MAZINDERAN
KAI KAOUS COMMITTETH MORE FOLLIES.
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB
SAIAWUSH
PAGE
xi
xxix
I
14
33
42
69
87
116
129
•
172
199
219
240
251
272
280
299
•
310
332
THE RETURN OF KAI KHOSRAU
FIROUD
THE VENGEANCE OF KAI KHOSRAU
BYZUN AND MANIJEH
THE DEFEAT OF AFRASIYAB
THE PASSING OF KAI KHOSRAU
ISFENDIYAR
•
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR
THE DEATH OF RUSTEM
ETCHINGS
BY
L. ALMA TADEMA, R. A.
"And seeing a water-bird fly upward, he took his bow and shot it through
the heart, and it fell among the rose-gatherers."
PAGE 45.
“And they gazed upon each other and knew that they excelled in beauty;
and the hours slipped by in sweet talk while love was fanned in their hearts."
PAGE 49.
INTRODUCTION.

PICS, in the truest acceptation of the term,
are written in the infancy of a race or
people, at a time when national self-con-
sciousness has awakened sufficiently to
take root and blossom, but before the
march of civilization has brought its reason to bear upon
tradition, and has disentangled myth from reality; in
fact, has destroyed the very element that alone makes
national epics possible. Of such epics the world owns
but few. Indeed it has been said that there are but six,
of which two fall to India, the "Mahabharata" and
the "Ramayana;" two to Greece, the "Iliad" and the
"Odyssey;" one to the North, the "Nibelungen Lied;
and one to Persia, the “Shah Nameh." These six epics
certainly have this in common, that they are not the
inventions of an individual, but are founded on national
traditions.
})
The materials of an epic are found among all
nations, namely, those traditions, half fact, half fiction,
concerning national heroes whose mighty deeds are
handed down from generation to generation by oral
xii
INTRODUCTION.
tradition. Such only exist during the non-literary
age of a nation, and while it is still in what Comte
terms its supernatural stage. Only then have tradi-
tions their true national ring and flavour, only then
can they be put into form and preserved so that
they reproduce for all time that peculiar, inimitable
fragrance, that aroma of the childhood of the world.
But in order that they should be thus fixed, it is needful
that at the moment when the lay of the native bard is
growing silent or corrupt, there should arise a poet,
great, large-hearted, national enough to weld into an
organic whole the tangled mass of tradition, who
having one foot firmly planted upon the ground of the
past, rests with the other upon the ground of his own
time. Such poets are rare; it is therefore that true epics
are rare also. It is the same throughout all things in
life. Only when the man and the moment meet can
great things be achieved. Now, among the scanty number
of true epics is enrolled, as we have seen, the "Shah
Nameh," or Book of Kings, the poem that embodies
the early history of the great empire of the Persians.
It is strange that, except to scholars, this epic is almost
unknown, and yet it in nowise yields to those more
familiar in dignity and fire; it reflects a nation's life as
truly as that which Homer sang or the Northern Skalds
recited.
As the Greek national epic has become identified with
the name of Homer, so has the Persian with that of
INTRODUCTION.
xiii
Firdusi. Various Persian kings had attempted to gather
into one sheaf the blades of tradition that were scattered
broadcast over the land. Nouschirwan caused them to
be called from all ends of his kingdom, and Yezdejerd,
the last king of the Sassanian race, ordered these materials
to be arranged. That Persia, a land of such vast extent,
such great conquests, owning such splendid monuments,
should be rich in epic traditions is not amazing. These
traditions were preserved by the Dikhans, who, accord-
ing to Jules Mohl, held rank analogous to that of the
English county families, and jealously guarded the songs
and legends that told of the great deeds done of old
by their ancestors. Hardly was this collection com-
pleted than there followed the Arabian conquest of
Persia, the conquerors as usual striving to obliterate
among the conquered all memory of their ancient
grandeur and traditions. The Persian faith had to give
way to the Arabian, and it seemed as though the Kali-
phate had crushed out of existence the ancient Iranian
life. But by-and-by came signs that showed that the
throne of the Kaliphs was not firmly fixed, and this
weakness encouraged the Persians to bring about a
reaction in favour of their nation. Various princes of
Iranian lineage declared themselves independent of their
Arab suzerain. In order to rally around them the
interest of the people, and to revive enthusiasm for their
native land, they fell back with subtle wisdom upon the
ancient traditions of the nation. It was then that the
xiv
INTRODUCTION.
MSS. collated under the Sassanians were remembered.
These MSS. meantime had gone through many vicissi-
tudes, having been condemned to be burned by the Arabs,
having been lost and dispersed, and finally, it is said,
found their way to Abyssinia, and hence through
India back to Persia. Be this as it may, at the time
that the throne of the Kaliphs was tottering, various
versions of the old half-mythical history of heroic Persia
were attempted, though none fulfilled all requirements,
because none owned that ineffable spirit of true epic
verse which could alone fire the imagination of a people.
It was during the reign and under the ægis of Mahmoud
of Ghaznin that the Persian national epic first took that
shape which allowed its creator to say that he had penned
"What no tide
Shall ever wash away, what men
Unborn shall read o'er ocean wide."
Mansur ibn Ahmad, for this is the real name of our
poet, was born at Tous in Khorasan of a Dikhan family.
The exact date of his birth cannot be determined.
Mohl places it about 1010. Indeed all our knowledge.
concerning Firdusi is somewhat obscure.
Tradition
relates that when he was born his father in a dream
saw the infant standing with his face to the west and
lifting up his voice, the echo of which reverberated from
every quarter of the globe. On awaking he applied to
an interpreter to expound this dream, and was told that
the fame of his son and his poetical talents would be
INTRODUCTION.
XV
Whether this induced the
the theme of the universe.
father to give his boy the best education the place and
time could afford cannot be ascertained, but it is certain
that he did so. The boy was soon known for his
ardent application to learning, and for his poetical
gifts, which were early perceived and fostered. He was
known, too, throughout Tous for his fondness for sitting
and dreaming for hours beside the canal that flowed
through his father's grounds. This canal was destined
to play a large part in the history of the poet. It was
fed by the river that watered Tous, but at times it would
run dry owing to inundations that carried away the
earthen dykes that formed the river's channel. The
boy often beheld the destruction that resulted, and it
became his ardent wish that the dyke might be built of
stone. And this wish was accomplished by his means,
though he did not live to see it. Little is known of the
earlier years of Firdusi's life except that he married at
about the age of twenty-eight, and that he was early
engaged in versifying the traditions of his nation. These
poems he appears to have recited to his fellow-towns-
men, and it was perhaps owing to them that the fame of
Firdusi's poetical gifts spread to Ghaznin. Mahmoud
seems to have been one of the most accomplished
monarchs that ever sat upon an Eastern throne.
Court was the seat of the Muses, he patronized poets both
from a genuine love of letters and for his political purposes.
Seven poets were already engaged by him to put into
His
xvi
INTRODUCTION.
verse the annals of the Persian Empire, of which his
library contained the most complete existing records,
when it chanced that he heard that this task was being
attempted by a native of Tous, who, however, had come
to a standstill for lack of material. Thus it happened
that Mahmoud and Firdusi came together, each
having planned a national poem unknown to the
other, the one having the gifts, the other the matter. It
was some time, however, before Firdusi conquered the
royal favour, for his brother poets were jealous of him
and prejudiced the monarch. Chance came to his aid.
To cause him public discomfiture he was challenged to
find a rhyme to a word supposed to have none, and
brilliantly defeated his enemies. He was then called
upon to improvise a poem before the Sultan, and ac-
quitted himself so well that Mahmoud turned to him,
saying, "You have made my Court as resplendent as
Firdus" (ie. Paradise). From that day the poet had
gained the royal favour, and henceforth was to be known
to the world as Firdusi, ie. the Paradisiacal.
He was
intrusted with the execution of the "Book of Kings."
Rooms were set apart for him in the royal palace, every
facility for work was afforded him, and for a time he
sunned himself in the royal favour. The Sultan poured
gifts upon him, and further offered to bestow upon him
a thousand pieces of gold for each thousand distichs.
Firdusi, however, prayed that this money might not be
given to him until his great work was completed, for he
INTRODUCTION.
xvii
wished to think that at the end of his labours he might
count upon a sufficient sum to realize the darling wish of
his life, the erection of a dyke that should save his native
town from inundations. Thus it came to pass that Fir-
dusi's glorious epic was the result of royal patronage,
and was the work of a poet laureate, two circumstances
that usually quench poetic power. But the poet was to
learn, as his successors Spenser and Tasso learned, what
the royal Psalmist already knew, that it is vain to put
confidence in princes. The favour accorded to Firdusi
had made him many enemies during the twelve years
he resided at the Court of Mahmoud, and when, after
thirty-three years of labour, he was able to lay his great.
work, completed, at the feet of the Sultan, it was to meet
with contumely.
The poem contributed by Mr. Gosse to this volume
takes up the thread of the poet's life from this point, and
we need not therefore go over the ground again. What
he has not told us is that the long-delayed payment
was offered to Firdusi's only daughter, who rejected
that which had been refused to her father. A relative,
however, accepted the gold, and built with it the dyke
Firdusi had dreamed of, and a house of refuge for
travellers. Time has long since destroyed both embank-
ment and refuge, but the "Shah Nameh" will remain,
and must remain, his monument to the end of time.
Till quite recently a cupola of blue glazed tiles was
shown to travellers at Tous as the tomb of Firdusi. It
b
xviii
INTRODUCTION.
appears that he was buried in a garden, and a character-
istic story of his burial is preserved, showing that
intolerance and fanaticism are the same in all ages.
The Sheik had refused to read the customary prayers
over Firdusi's grave because the poet had spent his life
praising the false religion of fire. But a dream was
vouchsafed to him in which he beheld Firdusi enthroned
upon a seat of honour in Paradise. He marvelled at
this and questioned. Then an angel told him that
Firdusi enjoyed great favour in the sight of God for
his poem, and that he would have earned this if only
for one couplet therein; and the heavenly vision then
recited Firdusi's lines in praise of God:-
"Thou art whate'er exists, above, below.
What is, Thou art; what Thou art, who can know?"
The angel of the Sheik's dream showed fine critical
perception in his rebuke. Nothing more distinguishes
the "Shah Nameh" than the tone of true religion that
pervades it. It is free from all mythology, all supersti-
tious rites; there is no notice anywhere of a religious
ceremony. The old Persian faith was singularly
simple, pure, and strong, and it is wonderful how com-
pletely the Mahommedan Firdusi has apprehended it.
Only here and there, quite rarely, the Mussulman peeps
forth.
Many, long and learned, are the disquisitions written
by Oriental scholars upon the genesis of the legends that
form the basis of the "Shah Nameh;" but as these
INTRODUCTION.
xix
authorities differ widely from one another, it is not
needful for us to follow their devious paths here, where
we desire only to deal with that which has sprung from
these obscure sources. Be their origin what it may, we
possess the poem, which happily is a reality, and a
magnificent one. Sufficient for us that what Sæmund
Sigfusson did for the poems of the Skalds, reconstruct-
ing them and saving them from destruction, Firdusi
did for the traditions of his land. It would lead
us too far in this Introduction to trace the many
and curious analogies that exist between this poem
and Western traditions, but to students of comparative
mythology here should be a rich field. Thus to
indicate a few. Rustem with his dying strength
shoots at his murderer, like Siegfried flinging his spear
at Hagen's shield. The story of Saiawush is the old
tale of Phædra and Hippolytus. The combat of a
father with his unknown son meets us at many turns,
notably in the "Hildebrand Lied." Mr. Matthew Arnold,
in his fine poem "Rustem and Sohrab," misses one of
the most exquisite points, owing to his having derived
his story, not from Firdusi direct, but from a corrupt
version. The labours of Rustem recall those of Her-
cules. And when it is borne in mind that the epic is
contemporaneous with the "Chanson de Roland," it is
curious to note that notwithstanding such vast differ-
ences of time and place, so many analogies occur with
the tales of Charlemagne and the Knights of the Round
XX
INTRODUCTION.
Table. There existed in those days in Persia a sort
of feudalism that brought about analogous conditions.
The Iranian Pehliva much resembled the knights of
the West; honour too was his highest aim, his steed his
friend, his weapons his greatest treasure. The Simurg
has been deemed the origin of the Griffin, which found
its way into Europe through the writings of the
Spanish Arabs, but got transmuted from a beneficent
being to a terrible beast. The tamarisk branch fatal
to Isfendiyar recalls the mistletoe that destroyed.
Baldur, and so forth.
The Book or Epic of Kings has for its theme the rise,
combats, and death of the Persian nationality. Con-
tention is said to be the needful foundation of an epic,
and here we find it in full vigour, though in this case
the combatants are two races, two civilizations, and
two worlds. The scene of action of this vast poem
is Central Asia; it is an inland, mainland epic, and
in this respect alone differs widely from its compeers.
It sings a people extending their dominion from the
Caucasus to the Hindoo Koosh; its theme is the old
Persian civilization, the cultus of fire, sung by a descen-
dant of those who overthrew this worship. It was
given to Firdusi to new create the Persian nationality
and blend into one conquerors and conquered. Adum-
brated by poetical and popular legends, we learn
in the "Shah Nameh" the wars of the peoples that
succeeded each other in the Persian Empire. Thus
INTRODUCTION.
xxi
the history of Zohak probably represents the invasion
of some Semitic people into Iran; the combat of the
descendants of Tur against those of Irij signifies the
long wars waged by the kings of Persia against the
Tartar and Scythian peoples of the north, wars signa-
lized by many vicissitudes. And this Zohak is held by
some to be the Nimrod of the Hebrews; Kai Khosrau
is identified as the Cyrus of the Greeks; Gushtasp, the
Darius Hystaspes; Isfendiyar, the Xerxes; while the
fabulous lengths of the reigns of the various kings are
held to represent periods in the history of Persia.
This may be so, but it is best to regard the “Shah
Nameh" once for all as history clouded by fable, and to
dismiss its earlier half as being as historically obscure as
the time that preceded the Trojan war. It does not,
like the "Iliad," deal with one single grand event, but
consists of a series of narratives beginning with fabulous
times and going down to the period when the old civi-
lization gave place to Islamism.
But if unity is wanting in facts, it is there in ideas; and
if the "Shah Nameh" seems to present various heroes, it
has in reality but one, and that Iran, the native land of
the singer and the sung. The poem falls, however, into
two very sharply-marked divisions, probably unde-
signed by its author, but impossible to ignore. The
one ending with the death of Rustem is the true
epic, the second is a mere poetical chronicle in which
facts are often transmuted by Firdusi's patriotism.
xxii
INTRODUCTION.
Thus Alexander the Great, according to him, is not
the conqueror of Persia, but a Persian king. In this
second half Firdusi still shows flashes of his old poetic
power and vivid imagination, but the whole is tamer,
more fragmentary, pervaded by a more serious tone.
He is singing of the disasters of his nation; the old
heroes are dead, the old might is inclining to its fall.
But whether as a part or a whole, few works have so
many claims to interest, whether as a poem, a history,
or a record of laws and customs; for though chronology
and geography are constantly violated, it is none the
less a faithful picture, reproducing if not the facts, the
spirit of a land closely connected both with sacred history
and classical associations. Yet even in its own country
the immense extent of the work has been an almost
insuperable obstacle to its popularity. This, however,
applies more to the second part, for we are also told that
the earlier tales of Firdusi are in the mouth of the rudest
Persian. As the Venetian gondoliers have been heard
to sing the verses of Tasso, so the common people of
Persia cite Firdusi. It is further told that in our own
days they marched to battle against the Turcomans.
repeating his verses. The popularity of his tales is
sufficiently shown by the fact that towns and villages to
this day bear the names of his heroes. In Mazinderan
no less than three hundred villages are called Rustem.
More modern tradition narrates that when the province
of Seistan was devastated by Tamerlane, a voice was
INTRODUCTION.
xxiii
heard crying to the shade of Rustem, “Arise, lift up thy
head from out of the sepulchre, and behold how Iran is
fallen into the hands of thine enemies, even into the
hands of the men of Turan." It was deemed that even
from beyond the grave the very name of Turan would
arouse the warlike ire of the Iranian champion; for the
combat of the good and evil principle, that dualism
which is the foundation of the Zoroastrian theology, is
also the soul of Firdusi's poem. Iran is throughout
identified with light; it is the kingdom of light, as Turan
is the kingdom of darkness. As the Israelites deemed
themselves the champions of Jehovah, so the Iranians
regarded themselves as the soldiers of Ormuzd, while
Ahriman aided the troops of Turan. And by men of
Turan the Persians meant all fair peoples. For the
Persians hated white, it was to them a colour antagonistic
to the sun; hence they speak of white Deevs, and Saum
casts forth his son as a child of the evil one because his
hair is white. According to Herodotus, they even chased
white pigeons as pariahs out of their borders.
There certainly is a sublimity and simplicity about
the worship of Fire that makes it a suitable basis for
an epic; there is a wild grandeur, a fitness in the
adoration of the Deity through His most brilliant
creation, the sun, the dispenser of light, life, and joy.
We feel the work to be one written in a country of
sunshine, so different in this respect from the Norse
"Eddas" and the "Nibelungen Lied," that are pervaded
xxiv
INTRODUCTION.
by the rude, chill atmosphere, the watery sunlight of
the north. Heine has said of the "Nibelungen Lied,” that
it is a poem hewn out of granite. Of the "Shah Nameh"
it might be said that it is carved out of marble. It is
more luminous, more polished. Moreover, it has been
more touched by civilization. There is nothing that is
austere about it, as is so often the case with the older
poems, removing them from our modern sympathies.
The "Shah Nameh " is pervaded by an antique grandeur
mingled with what might be called a modern spirit, but
which is in reality the expression of its intense truth to
human nature, the element that renders it of and for all
time. The colossal figures of its heroes and their super-
human actions are presented with a force and realism
that deprive them of all preternatural semblance. Indeed,
like Homer, Firdusi rarely introduces a truly super-
natural mechanism, and when he does employ it his
grave straightforward manner, his energetic simplicity,
free from all Oriental exaggeration and whimsicality,
force us to believe while we read. We are not dumb-
founded when the ass of Balaam lifts up his voice,
neither are we astonished when Rakush speaks. The
Persians were a less imaginative people than the Greeks
and the Indians, though in some respects akin to both,
and this is admirably seen in Firdusi's pages. He
disdains all bizarrerie, all strained metaphors, the
usual sin of Orientals. His imagination is removed
from extravagance, and though he has few equals
INTRODUCTION.
XXV
in fulness and variety of imagery, his similes are
concise and striking. The absence of such profuse
ornament, as we find in later Persian poets, makes
Firdusi more like a writer of the Western world. Like
Homer, he sings a rude time of personal valour; like
Homer, he writes of the heroic age of his country. Hence
he unrolls before us alternate scenes of carnage, of
banquets and splendours, of love passages and adventures,
all told with an invention now rapid and exuberant, now
sober and subdued. Like Homer, he too nods at times;
but this is rare, and it is rather a cause for marvel how
he maintains such a constant height of excellence.
The reason is that he represents and embodies, and is
in turn borne along and supported by, the spirit of his
nation; and the spirit of a great people, so long as it is
not fatally degenerate, is like a great ocean, which has,
indeed, its partial and alternate ebbs and flows, but is
substantially, and as a whole, ever equal and the same.
PREFATORY POEM.
FIRDUSI IN EXILE.
FIRDUSI IN EXILE.
I.
Now God who flames the buckler of the sun,
And lights that lamp of heaven, the glorious moon,
In the proud breast of Mahmoud had begun
To stir remorse, and, like the loud typhoon,
Shame blew his thoughts in gusts about his soul,
Remembering that old man whose sandy shoon
Pressed the low shores where distant waters roll,
And all his wrongs, and unrequited boon.
II.
For, greatest poet whom the world contains,
Firdusi, on whose tongue the sweet Fársí
Sounded like whispering leafage when it rains,
Who loved the ancient kings, and learned to see
Their buried shapes in vision one by one,
And wove their deeds in lovely minstrelsy,
For all the glory that his name had won
To Persia, was in exile by the sea.
XXX
PREFATORY POEM.
III.
In vain through sixty thousand verses clear
He sang of feuds and battles, friend and foe,
Of the frail heart of Kaous, spent with fear,
And Kai Khosrau who vanished in the snow,
And white-haired Zal who won the secret love
Of Rudabeh where water-lilies blow,
And lordliest Rustem, armed by gods above
With every power and virtue mortals know.
IV.
In vain these stories of the godlike kings,
Whose bodies were as brass, their hearts as fire,
This verse that centuries with wasting wings
Will never harm, though men with gods conspire-
In vain the good Firdusi, full of years,
Inscribed this treasure to his Shah's desire;
For Mahmoud, heedless of the poet's tears,
Forgot his oath, nor gave the promised hire.
√.
For each sonorous verse one piece of gold :
Such was the promise that the Shah had made,
But when the glorious perfect tale was told,
The file of laden elephants delayed;
For Hasan, that black demon, held the ear
Of Mahmoud, and spoke tenderly, and said,
"The end of this old man, my lord, is near ;
For gold let silver in the sacks be weighed.”
FIRDUSI IN EXILE.
xxxi
VI.
Thereat Firdusi, when it came, was wroth,
And being within the bath, where all might see,
Called the two serving-men, and bid them both
Divide the silver for their service-fee,
And told Ayaz, the false Shah's chamberlain,
(6
Returning to thy master, say from me,
'Twas not for silver that I toiled amain
And wove my verse for thirty years and three."
VII.
Then round him came his friends and bade him fly
From Mahmoud's vengeance, and the murderous sword;
But he, being placable of heart, would try
For peace, since enmity his soul abhorred;
So in the garden where the Shah was used
To breathe the spice that many a rose outpoured,
Firdusi met his master as he mused,
And bowed down at his feet without a word.
VIII.
Yet grudging was the pardon, faint the smile,
And when that evening in the mosque he lay,
A veilèd dervish, muttering all the while,
Crept near Firdusi, while he seemed to pray,
And whispered, "Fly from Ghaznin, fly to-night,
The bowstring waits for thee at break of day.
Thou shalt not 'scape because thy beard is white-
Begone!" and like a snake he slipped away.
xxxii
PREFATORY POEM.
IX.
Then, when of worship there was made an end,
Firdusi rolled his prayer-mat up, and turned
To that bright niche where all believers bend,
And by the light of lamps that round him burned
Wrote on a blue tile, with a diamond point,
Two couplets that may yet be well discerned,
Though all the mosque be crumbling joint from joint,
By long decay and mouldering age inurned :
X.
"The happy court of Mahmoud is a sea,
A sea of endless waves without a coast;
In my unlucky star the fault must be
If I who plunged for pearls in it am lost."
Then to his house he went, weary and sad,
And called around him those who loved him most,
And gave them all the treasure that he had,
Soft silken raiment that a king might boast.
XI.
But in a saintly gaberdine set out
And crossed the moonlit streets, and left the town,
Nor stopped to hear the lonely owlet shout
His dreamy menace from the turret's crown,
But where the cypresses and myrtles hoar
Hid the white house of Ayaz, stooping down,
He thrust a letter underneath the door,
And faded in the shadow broad and brown.
FIRDUSI IN EXILE.
xxxiii
XII.
That letter bade the chamberlain beloved
Before the dawn to seek his master's face,
And plead until his blandishments had moved
The Shah to grant him twenty days of grace;
In twenty days a paper folded fair
Should Ayaz in his master's fingers place,
Which to the gracious Sultan would declare
Firdusi's secret wish, and plead his case.
XIII.
The Sultan vowed: but for those twenty days
The Sultan yawned upon his peacock throne ;
The rebeck and the Turkish minstrel's lays
With their sweet treble jarred him to the bone.
All night he tossed in fever, all day long
Far from his blithe hareem he paced alone,
Or scowled to hear the trampling and the song
Where down the cool bazaar the lanterns shone.
XIV.
At last, at last the twentieth morning broke,
And Mahmoud, flushed with pleasure, rose and cried
For fair Ayaz, who from his slumber woke,
And brought the sealèd letter, white and wide.
In Allah's name the Sultan broke the seal;
His long-pent wishes satisfied, he sighed,
But reading on, he stared, and seemed to reel,
And crushed the leaf, and gazed out stony-eyed.
C
xxxiv
PREFATORY POEM.
XV.
It was that scathing satire, writ in fire,
And music such as the red tiger makes
Over a man, the food of her desire,
When she lies down among the crested brakes-
That satire which the world still shudders at,
Whose cadence in the hearer's sense still aches,
At bare recital of whose singeing hate
The conscience of forgetful kings awakes.
XVI.
"O Mahmoud, of the whole world conqueror,
You fear not me?-fear God!" The Sultan fell
With outstretched arms before the chamber door,
Ashen with rage, and his breast's heave and swell
Was like an earthquake; no word passed his lips,
But curses from the foulest pit of hell,
Till evening brought his soul through that eclipse,
And he rose up, and drank, and feasted well.
XVII.
But old Firdusi, bearing eastward still,
Through many a Tartar camp, his woven mat,
At last, one evening, climbed a scarpèd hill
From whence he saw the white roofs of Herat:
Downward he passed, and in a garden, sweet
With roses and narcissus, down he sat,
And wondered if his mountain-weary feet
Might dare to rest where earth was smooth and flat.
FIRDUSI IN EXILE,
XXXV
XVIII.
Then suddenly his tired eyes laughed at last,
For he remembered, by the gift of fate,
Where once he lodged in merry days long past
At Herat, in the arch above the gate.
There Abou'lmaani sold his ancient books,
A man discreet and old, without a mate,
And there Firdusi oft, in dusty nooks,
Had chanted verses till the night was late.
XIX.
To Abou'lmaani in the dusk he went,
And found him still more wrinkled than of yore,
An owlish figure, angular and bent,
But hearty still and honest to the core.
So there among the rolls of parchment sere
Once more he drank the mystic Dikhan lore,
But never sought the daylight streets, for fear
Of treachery, and the hatred Mahmoud bore.
XX.
And little rest he had, and brief delight,
For rumours from the court at Ghaznin ran,
And with a short farewell he fled by night
Across the mountains to the Caspian ;
A gentle Sultan ruled from Astrabad
The jasmine-gardens of Mazinderan,
And to his little court, humble and sad,
One morning came a white-haired minstrel-man.
xxxvi
PREFATORY POEM.
XXI.
Like parrots, one and all, with shrieking tongues
The poets knew their lord, and screamed his name,
Bitter with hate; but his sweet learned songs
Had touched the Sultan with their sacred flame;
He bade the jealous poets all make way,
And did Firdusi honour to their shame,
And asked by what fair accident that day
From stately Ghaznin such a stranger came.
XXII.
But when he knew, and heard of Mahmoud's rage,
He trembled, and his fingers stroked his beard;
For scarcely could his pastoral province wage
Safe war with one whom all the nations feared ;
So blushing much, as one who loathes his task,
He bade his guest, whom meat and wine had cheered,
To grant the boon that he could scarcely ask
Of one so deeply loved, so long revered.
XXIII.
Firdusi rose and sighed, and went his way,
But ere he reached the gate of Astrabad,
The Sultan sent three men in rich array
Laden with gifts, the lordliest that he had,
And camels, that the bard might ride at ease,
And lutes, and a Circassian serving-lad;
So after many days he passed with these
Far down the lordly Tigris to Baghdad.
FIRDUSI IN EXILE.
xxxvii
XXIV.
Here underneath the palm-trees, full of shade,
The poet tasted peace, and lingered long ;
The Master of the Faithful he obeyed,
And searched the Koran for a theme for song.
The vizier lodged him in his own fair house,
Where wise men gathered in a learned throng,
And when the Khalif heard his pious vows,
He gave him gifts and shielded him from wrong.
XXV.
There in a white-walled garden full of trees,
Through which there ran a deep cold water-brook
Fringed with white tulips and anemones,
Among the tender grass he wrote the book
Of Yousouf and Zuleika; not one word
Was there of all the windy war that shook
Iran of old, nor was the ear once stirred
With any name the Faithful might rebuke.
XXVI.
Nine thousand Persian verses told the tale,
And when the perfect poem was set down,
He rose, and left the plaintive nightingale
That long had tuned her throat to his sweet moan;
Before the Khalif on a broad divan,
To sound of rebecks, in a silken gown,
He sat in state, and when the dance began
Declaimed aloud that song of high renown.
xxxviii
PREFATORY POEM.
XXVII.
Its music sank on well-attempered ears ;
The Khalif lounged upon his throne, and cried,
"Lo! I this day am as a man who hears
The angel Gabriel murmur at his side—
And dies not." At the viewless hareem-door
The screen was swayed by bending forms that sighed,
And scheikhs and soldiers, young and old, for more
Still pressed and wished, and scarce would be denied.
XXVIII.
Ah, palmy days were those for singer's craft!
Now every worldling flings his cap in rhyme,
And from an easy bow lets fly a shaft
At verse much honoured in his grandsire's time;
Now many a ghazel, soft with spices, trips
Along the alien mouth with frivolous chime,
And lightly rises from unhonoured lips
The ancient rhythm sonorous and sublime.
XXIX.
But great Firdusi met with honour then,
Garments and jewels, and much store of gold;
Till one, the basest and the worst of men,
Rode out by stealth that Hasan might be told;
Who, when he heard in Ghaznin that his foe
Sat, robed and glorious, as he sat of old,
Stirred up with whispers to a fiery glow
The rage of Mahmoud, which was wellnigh cold.
FIRDUSI IN EXILE.
xxxix
XXX.
So Mahmoud sent to Baghdad embassies
Demanding speedily Firdusi's head,
Or else the town among her ancient trees
Must look for instant war, the missive said;
The stately Khalif rose in wrath and pride,
And swore that till each faithful heart was dead,
His hospitable sword should leave his side,
And rolling Tigris blush in Persian red.
XXXI.
But ere the messengers with garments rent
Fled back to Ghaznin at the trumpet's blare,
Firdusi to the warlike Khalif sent
His little servant with the flowing hair,
Who scarcely knowing what he said, by rote
Repeated, "Master, have no thought or care
Of old Firdusi; he can dive and float
A fish in water and a bird in air.
XXXII.
"The quail upon the mountain needs no host
To guard her covert in the waving grass;
And though Mahmoud and all his ships be tost
On lake or sea, the little trout will pass.
Stain not thy sword for such a guest as I,
For God, before whose sight man's heart is glass,
Will see the stain that on my soul will lie
If life-blood gush from helmet or cuirass.
xl
PREFATORY POEM.
XXXIII.
"I go my way into the lion's mouth,
And as I journey, God will hold my hand;
Whether I wander north or wander south,
There is no rest for me in any land;
The serpent's fang will find me though I fly
To Frankistan, or Ind, or Samarkand;
I will go home again, for tired am I,
And all too old to wrestle and withstand.
XXXIV.
"So send the Persian envoys back in peace,
For, whilst these words are spoken, I am gone ;
Though thou shouldst scour the lands and drain the seas,
Thou shalt not find me, since I wend alone;
For all the days that I have loved thee well,
My heart is myrrh, that kindles at thy throne,
And I am sadder than my tongue can tell,
That I must leave thee with the end unknown.”
XXXV.
So with a single camel, clad to sight
Like some poor merchant of the common sort,
Firdusi left the town at morning light,
And passed the gate, and passed the sullen fort,
Unnoted; and his face was to the east,
Towards Hasan and the hateful Persian court,
As if contempt of life were in his breast,
And loathing of his days, so sad and short.
FIRDUSI IN EXILE.
xli
XXXVI.
But sure some angel had forewarned him well,
And murmured in his ear the name of "home;"
For through this perilous journey there befell
No evil wheresoever he might come.
And Mahmoud guessed not that the foe he sought
Had turned upon his track and ceased to roam,
But sent out scouts, and bade his head be brought
From Bahrein by the vexed Arabian foam.
XXXVII.
At last one night, as lone Firdusi rode,
The dawn broke grey across the starry sky,
And far ahead behind the mountains flowed
A sudden gush of molten gold on high;
The glory spread from snowy horn to horn,
Tinged by the rushing dawn with sanguine dye,
And Tous, the little town where he was born,
Flashed at his feet, with white roofs clustered nigh.
XXXVIII.
His aged sister fell upon his neck;
་
His girl, his only child, with happy tears,
Clung to his knees, and sobbing, with no check
Poured out the story of her hopes and fears.
Gravely his servants gave him welcome meet,
And when his coming reached the townfolk's ears
They ran to cluster round him in the street,
And gave him honour for his wealth of years.
xlii
PREFATORY POEM.
XXXIX.
And there in peace he waited for the end;
But in all distant lands where Mahmoud sent,
Each Prince and Sultan was Firdusi's friend,
And murmured, like a high-stringed instrument
Swept by harsh fingers, at a quest so rude,
And chid the zeal, austere and violent,
That drove so sweet a voice to solitude,
And bade the Shah consider and relent.
XL.
And once from Delhi, that o'erhangs the tide
Of reedy Ganges like a gorgeous cloud,
The Hindu king, with Persia close allied,
Sent letters larger than the faith he vowed,
Smelling of sandalwood and ambergris,
And cited from Firdusi lines that showed
Friendship should be eternal, and the bliss
Of love a gift to make a master proud.
XLI.
So while these words were fresh in Mahmoud's brain
He went one night into the mosque to pray,
And by the swinging lamp deciphered plain
The verse Firdusi, ere he fled away,
Wrote on the wall; and one by one there rose
Sad thoughts and sweet of many a vanished day,
When his soul hovered on the measured close
And wave-beat of the rich heroic lay.
FIRDUSI IN EXILE.
xliii
XLII.
Mourning the verse, he mourned the poet too;
And he who oftentimes had lain awake
Long nights in wide-eyed vision to pursue
His victim, yearning in revengeful ache,
Forgot all dreams of a luxurious death
By trampling elephant or strangling snake,
And thought on his old friend with tightened breath,
And flushed, remorseful for his anger's sake.
XLIII.
Back to his court he went, molten at heart,
And all his rage on faithless Hasan turned;
For when he thought him of that tongue's black art,
His wrath was in him like a coal that burned.
He bade his several ministers appear
Before his throne, and by inquiry learned
The cunning treason of the false vizier,
And all his soul's deformity discerned.
XLIV.
Hasan was slain that night; and of the gold
His monkey-hands had thieved from rich and poor,
The Sultan bade the money should be told
Long due as payment at Firdusi's door;
But when the sacks of red dinars were full,
Mahmoud bethought him long, and pondered sore,
Since vainly any king is bountiful
Not knowing where to seek his creditor.
xliv
PREFATORY POEM.
XLV.
But while he fretted at this ignorance,
A dervish came to Ghaznin, who had seen,
In passing through the streets of Tous, by chance
Firdusi in his garden cool and green ;
At this Mahmoud rejoiced, and, with glad eyes
Swimming in tears, quivering with liquid sheen,
Wrote words of pardon, and in welcoming wise
Prayed all might be again as all had been.
XLVI.
But while Firdusi brooded on his wrong,
One day he heard a child's clear voice repeat
The bitter jibe of his own scathing song ;
Whereat he started, and his full heart beat
Its last deep throb of agony and rage;
And blinded in sharp pain, with tottering feet,
Being very feeble in extremest age,
He fell, and died there in the crowded street.
XLVII.
The light of three-and-fourscore summers' suns
Had blanched the silken locks round that vast brow;
If Mahmoud might have looked upon him once,
He would have bowed before him meek and low;
The majesty of death was in his face,
And those wide waxen temples seem to glow
With morning glory from some holy place
Where angels met him in a burning row.
FIRDUSI IN EXILE.
xlv
XLVIII.
His work was done; the palaces of kings
Fade in long rains, and in loud earthquakes fall;
The poem that a godlike poet sings
Shines o'er his memory like a brazen wall;
No suns may blast it, and no tempest wreck,
Its periods ring above the trumpet's call,
Wars and the tumult of the sword may shake
And may eclipse it-it survives them all.
XLIX.
Now all this while along the mountain road
The mighty line of camels wound in state;
Shuddering they moved beneath their massy load,
And swinging slowly with the balanced weight;
Burden of gold, and garments red as flame,
They bore, not dreaming of the stroke of fate,
And so at last one day to Tous they came
And entered blithely at the eastern gate.
L.
But in the thronged and noiseless streets they found
All mute, and marvelled at the tears men shed,
And no one asked them whither they were bound,
And when for very shame discomfited,
They cried, "Now tell us where Firdusi lies!"
A young man like a cypress rose and said-
The anger burning in his large dark eyes—
"Too late Mahmoud remembers! he is dead!
xlvi
PREFATORY POEM.
LI.
"Speed! haste away! hie to the western port ;
Perchance the convoy has not passed it yet!
But hasten, hasten, for the hour is short,
And your short-memoried master may forget!
Behold, they bear Firdusi to the tomb,
Pour in his open grave your golden debt!
Speed! haste! and with the treasures of the loom
Dry the sad cheeks where filial tears are wet!
LII.
"Lead your bright-harnessed camels one by one,
The dead man journeys, and he fain would ride;
Pour out your unctuous perfumes in the sun,
The rose has spilt her petals at his side;
Your citherns and your carven rebecks hold
Here when the nightingale untimely died;
And ye have waited well till he is cold,
Now wrap his body in your tigers' hide."
LIII.
And so the young man ceased; but one arose
Of graver aspect, not less sad than he.
"Nay, let," he cried, "the sunshine and the snows
His glittering gold and silk-soft raiment be;
Approach not with unhallowed steps profane
The low white wall, the shadowy lotus-tree ;
Nor let a music louder than the rain
Disturb him dreaming through eternity.
FIRDUSI IN EXILE.
xlvii
LIV.
"For him no more the dawn will break in blood
No more the silver moon bring fear by night;
He starts no longer at a tyrant's mood,
Serene for ever in the Prophet's sight;
The soul of Yaman breathed on him from heaven,
And he is victor in the unequal fight;
To Mahmoud rage and deep remorse are given,
To old Firdusi rest and long delight."
EDMUND W. Gosse.
THE SHAHS OF OLD.

He
AIUMERS first sat upon the throne of
Persia, and was master of the world.
took up his abode in the mountains, and
clad himself and his people in tiger-skins,
and from him sprang all kindly nurture
and the arts of clothing, till then unknown. Men and
beasts from all parts of the earth came to do him
homage and receive laws at his hands, and his glory was
like to the sun. Then Ahriman the Evil, when he saw
how the Shah's honour had increased, waxed envious,
and sought to usurp the diadem of the world. So
he bade his son, a mighty Deev, gather together an
army to go out against Kaiumers and his beloved son
Saiamuk and destroy them utterly.
Now the Serosch, the angel who defendeth men
from the snares of the Deevs, and who each night
flieth seven times around the earth that he may watch
over the children of Ormuzd, when he learned this,
appeared like unto a Peri and warned Kaiumers. So
when Saiamuk set forth at the head of his warriors to
meet the army of Ahriman, he knew that he was con-
tending against a Deev, and he put forth all his strength.
A
2
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
But the Deev was mightier than he, and overcame him,
and crushed him under his hands.
When Kaiumers heard the news of mourning, he was
bowed to the ground. For a year did he weep without
ceasing, and his army wept with him; yea, even the
savage beasts and the birds of the air joined in the wail-
ing. And sorrow reigned in the land, and all the world
was darkened until the Serosch bade the Shah lift his
head and think on vengeance. And Kaiumers obeyed,
and commanded Husheng, the son of Saiamuk, "Take
the lead of the army, and march against the Deevs."
And the King, by reason of his great age, went in the
Now there were in the host Peris; also tigers,
lions, wolves, and other fierce creatures, and when the
black Deev heard their roaring he trembled for very
fear. Neither could he hold himself against them, and
Husheng routed him utterly. Then when Kaiumers
saw that his well-beloved son was revenged he laid him
down to die, and the world was void of him, and
Husheng reigned in his stead.
rear.
Now Husheng was a wise man and just, and the
heavens revolved over his throne forty years. Justice
did he spread over the land, and the world was better
for his reign. For he first gave to men fire, and showed
them how to draw it from out the stone; and he taught
them how they might lead the rivers, that they should
water the land and make it fertile; and he bade them
till and reap. And he divided the beasts and paired
THE SHAHS OF OLD.
3
them and gave them names. And when he passed to
a brighter life he left the world empty of a throne of
power. But Tahumers, his son, was not unworthy of
his sire. He too opened the eyes of men, and they
learned to spin and to weave; and he reigned over the
land long and mightily. But of him also were the
Deevs right envious, and sought to destroy him. Yet
Tahumers overcame them and cast them to earth.
Then some craved mercy at his hands, and swore how
they would show him an art if he would spare them,
and Tahumers listened to their voice. And they taught
him the art of writing, and thus from the evil Deevs
came a boon upon mankind.
Howbeit when Tahumers had sat upon the golden
throne for the space of thirty years he passed away, but
his works endured; and Jemshid, his glorious son,'whose
heart was filled with the counsels of his father, came
after him. Now Jemshid reigned over the land seven
hundred years girt with might, and Deevs, birds, and
Peris obeyed him. And the world was happier for his
sake, and he too was glad, and death was unknown
among men, neither did they wot of pain or sorrow. And
he first parcelled out men into classes; priests, warriors,
artificers, and husbandmen did he name them. And
the year also he divided into periods. And by aid of
the Deevs he raised mighty works, and Persepolis
was builded by him, that to this day is called Tukht-e-
Jemsheed, which being interpreted meaneth the throne
4
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
of Jemshid. Then, when these things were accom-
plished, men flocked from all corners of the earth
around his throne to do him homage and pour gifts
before his face. And Jemshid prepared a feast, and
bade them keep it, and called it Neurouz, which is the
New Day, and the people of Persia keep it to this hour.
And Jemshid's power increased, and the world was at
peace, and men beheld in him nought but what was
good.
Then it came about that the heart of Jemshid was
uplifted in pride, and he forgot whence came his weal
and the source of his blessings. He beheld only himself
upon the earth, and he named himself God, and sent
forth his image to be worshipped. But when he had
spoken thus, the Mubids, which are astrologers and wise
men, hung their heads in sorrow, and no man knew how
he should answer the Shah. And God withdrew his
hand from Jemshid, and the kings and the nobles rose
up against him, and removed their warriors from his
court, and Ahriman had power over the land.
Now there dwelt in the deserts of Arabia a king.
named Mirtas, generous and just, and he had a son,
Zohak, whom he loved. And it came about that
Ahriman visited the palace disguised as a noble, and
tempted Zohak that he should depart from the paths of
virtue. And he spake unto him and said—
"If thou wilt listen to me, and enter into a covenant,
I will raise thy head above the sun."
THE SHAHS OF OLD.
5
un
Now the young man was guileless and simple of
heart, and he swore unto the Deev that he would obey
him in all things. Then Ahriman bade him slay his
father, "for this old man," he said, "cumbereth the
ground, and while he liveth thou wilt remain unknown.”
When Zohak heard this he was filled with grief, and
would have broken his oath, but Ahriman suffered
him not, but made him set a trap for Mirtas. And
Zohak and the evil Ahriman held their peace, and
Mirtas fell into the snare and was killed. Then Zohak
placed the crown of Thasis upon his head, and Ahriman
taught him the arts of magic, and he ruled over his
people in good and evil, for he was not yet wholly given
up to guile.
f
Then Ahriman imagined a device in his black heart.
He took upon himself the form of a youth, and craved
that he might serve the King as cook. And Zohak,
who knew him not, received him well and granted his
request, and the keys of the kitchen were given unto
him. Now hitherto men had been nourished with
herbs, but Ahriman prepared flesh for Zohak. New
dishes did he put before him, and the royal favour was
accorded to his savory meats. And the flesh gave the
King courage and strength like to that of a lion,
and he commanded that his cook be brought before
him and ask a boon at his hands. And the cook said—
"If the King take pleasure in his servant, grant that
he may kiss his shoulders.”
6
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Now Zohak, who feared no evil, granted the request,
and Ahriman kissed him on his shoulders. And when
he had done so, the ground opened beneath his feet and
covered the cook, so that all men present were amazed
thereat. But from his kiss sprang hissing serpents,
venomous and black; and the King was afraid, and
desired that they should be cut off from the root. But
as often as the snakes were cut down did they grow
again, and in vain the wise men and physicians cast
about for a remedy. Then Ahriman came once again
disguised as a learned man, and was led before Zohak,
and he spake, saying—
"This ill cannot be healed, neither can the serpents
be uprooted. Prepare food for them, therefore, that
they may be fed, and give unto them for nourishment
the brains of men, for perchance this may destroy
them."
But in his secret heart Ahriman desired that the
world might thus be made desolate; and daily were the
serpents fed, and the fear of the King was great in the
land. The world withered in his thrall, the customs of
good men were forgotten, and the desires of the wicked
were accomplished.
Now it was spread abroad in Iran that in the land
of Thasis there reigned a man who was mighty and
terrible to his foes. Then the kings and nobles who
had withdrawn from Jemshid because he had rebelled
against God, turned to Zohak and besought him that he
THE SHAHS OF OLD.
7
would be their ruler, and they proclaimed him Shah.
And the armies of Arabia and Persia marched against
Jemshid, and he fled before their face. For the space
of twice fifty years no man knew whither he had gone,
for he hid from the wrath of the Serpent-King. But in
the fulness of time he could no longer escape the fury
of Zohak, whose servants found him as he wandered
on the sea-shore of Cathay, and they sawed him in
twain, and sent tidings thereof to their lord. And
thus perished the throne and power of Jemshid like unto
the grass that withereth, because that he had grown
proud, and would have lifted himself above his Maker.
So the beloved of Ahriman, Zohak the Serpent, sat
upon the throne of Iran, the kingdom of Light. And
he continued to pile evil upon evil till the measure there-
of was full to overflowing, and all the land cried out
against him. But Zohak and his councillors, the Deevs,
shut ear unto this cry, and the Shah reigned thus for
the space of a thousand years, and vice stalked in day-
light, but virtue was hidden. And despair filled all
hearts, for it was as though mankind must perish to
still the appetite of those snakes sprung from Evil, for
daily were two men slaughtered to satisfy their desire.
Neither had Zohak mercy upon any man. And dark-
ness was spread over the land because of his wickedness.
But Ormuzd saw it and was moved with compassion
for his people, and he declared they should no longer
suffer for the sin of Jemshid. And he caused a grand-
8
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
son to be born to Jemshid, and his parents called him
Feridoun.
Now it befell that when he was born, Zohak dreamed
he beheld a youth slender like to a cypress, and he
came towards him bearing a cow-headed mace, and with
it he struck Zohak to the ground. Then the tyrant
awoke and trembled, and called for his Mubids, that they
should interpret to him this dream. And they were
troubled, for they foresaw danger, and he menaced them if
they foretold him evil. And they were silent for fear three
days, but on the fourth one who had courage spake and
said-
"There will arise one named Feridoun, who shall
inherit thy throne and reverse thy fortunes, and strike
thee down with a cow-headed mace."
When Zohak heard these words he swooned, and
the Mubids fled before his wrath. But when he had
recovered he bade the world be scoured for Feridoun.
And henceforth Zohak was consumed for bitterness of
spirit, and he knew neither rest nor joy.
Now it came about that the mother of Feridoun feared
lest the Shah should destroy the child if he learned that
he had sprung from Jemshid's race. So she hid him in
the thick forest where dwelt the wondrous cow Purmaieh,
whose hairs were like unto the plumes of a peacock for
beauty. And she prayed the guardian of Purmaieh to
have a care of her son, and for three years he was reared
in the wood, and Purmaieh was his nurse. But when
THE SHAHS OF OLD.
9
the time was accomplished the mother knew that news
of Purmaich had reached the ears of Zohak, and she
feared he would find her son. Therefore she took
him far into Ind, to a pious hermit who dwelt on the
Mount Alberz. And she craved the hermit to guard
her boy, who was destined for mighty deeds. And the
hermit granted her request. And it befell that while
she sojourned with him Zohak had found the beauteous
Purmaieh and learned of Feridoun, and when he heard
that the boy was fled he was like unto a mad elephant
in his fury. He slew the wondrous cow and all the
living things round about, and made the forest a desert.
Then he continued his search, but neither tidings nor
sight could he get of Feridoun, and his heart was filled
with anguish.
In this year Zohak caused his army to be strength-
ened, and he demanded of his people that they should
certify that he had ever been to them a just and noble
king. And they obeyed for very fear. But while they
swore there arose without the doorway of the Shah the
cry of one who demanded justice. And Zohak com-
manded that he should be brought in, and the man
stood before the assembly of the nobles.
Then Zohak opened his mouth and said, “I charge
thee give a name unto him who has done thee wrong."
And the man, when he saw it was the Shah who
questioned him, smote his head with his hands. But
he answered and said-
10
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
'I am Kawah, a blacksmith and a blameless man,
and I sue for justice, and it is against thee, O King,
that I cry out. Seventeen fair sons have I called mine,
yet only one remaineth to me, for that his brethren
were slain to still the hunger of thy serpents, and now
they have taken from me this last child also. I pray
thee spare him unto me, nor heap thy cruelties upon
the land past bearing."
And the Shah feared Kawah's wrath, beholding that
it was great, and he granted him the life of his son and
sought to win him with soft words. Then he prayed
him that he would also sign the testimony that Zohak
was a just and noble king.
But Kawah cried, "Not so, thou wicked and ignoble
man, ally of Deevs, I will not lend my hand unto this
lie," and he seized the declaration and tore it into frag-
ments and scattered them into the air. And when he
had done so he strode forth from the palace, and all
the nobles and people were astonished, so that none
dared uplift a finger to restrain him. Then Kawah went
to the market-place and related to the people all that
he had seen, and recalled to them the evil deeds of Zohak
and the wrongs they had suffered at his hands. And he
provoked them to shake off the yoke of Ahriman. And
taking off the leathern apron wherewith blacksmiths
cover their knees when they strike with the hammer,
he raised it aloft upon the point of a lance and cried—
"Be this our banner to march forth and seek out
THE SHAHS OF OLD.
II
Feridoun and entreat him that he deliver us from out
the hands of the Serpent-King."
Then the people set up a shout of joy and gathered
themselves round Kawah, and he led them out of the
city bearing aloft his standard. And they marched
thus for many days unto the palace of Feridoun.
Now these things came about in the land of Iran after
twice eight years had passed over the head of Feri-
doun. And when that time was accomplished, he
had descended from the Mount Alberz and sought out
his mother, questioning her of his lineage. And she
told him how that he was sprung from the race of
Jemshid, and also of Zohak and of his evil deeds.
Then said Feridoun, "I will uproot this monster from
the earth, and his palace will I raze to the dust."
But his mother spake, and said, "Not so, my son, let
not thine youthful anger betray thee; for how canst
thou stand against all the world?"
Yet not long did she suffer the hard task to hinder
him, for soon a mighty crowd came towards the palace
led by one who bore an apron uplifted upon a lance.
Then Feridoun knew that succour had come unto him.
And when he had listened to Kawah, he came into the
presence of his mother with the helmet of kings upon
his head, and he said unto her-
(6
Mother, I go to the wars, and it remains for thee
to pray God for my safety."
Then he caused a mighty club to be made for him,
12
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
{
and he traced the pattern thereof upon the ground, and
the top thereof was the head of a cow, in memory of
Purmaieh, his nurse. Then he cased the standard of
Kawah in rich brocades of Roum, and hung jewels upon
it. And when all was made ready, they set forth
towards the West to seek out Zohak, for they knew not
that he had gone to Ind in search of Feridoun. Now
when they were come to Bagdad, which is upon the
banks of the Tigris, they halted, and Feridoun bade the
guardians of the flood convey them across. But these
refused, saying, the King had bade none should pass save
only those who bore the royal seal. When Feridoun
heard these words he was wroth, and he regarded not
the rushing river nor the dangers hidden within its
floods. He girded his loins and plunged with his steed
into the waters, and all the army followed after him.
Now they struggled sore with the rushing stream, and
it seemed as though the waves would bear them down.
But their brave horses overcame all dangers, and they
stepped in safety upon the shore. Then they turned
their faces towards the city which is now called Jerusa-
lem, for here stood the glorious house that Zohak had
builded. And when they had entered the city all the
people rallied round Feridoun, for they hated Zohak
and looked to Feridoun to deliver them. And he slew
the Deevs that held the palace, and cast down the evil
talisman that was graven upon the walls. Then he
mounted the throne of the idolater and placed the crown
THE SHAHS OF OLD.
13
of Iran upon his head, and all the people bowed down.
before him and called him Shah.
Now when Zohak returned from his search after
Feridoun and learned that he was seated upon his throne,
he encompassed the city with his host. But the army
of Feridoun marched against him, and the desires of
the people went with them. And all that day bricks
fell from the walls and stones from the terraces, and
it rained arrows and spears like to hail falling from a
dark cloud, until Feridoun had overcome the might of
Zohak. Then Feridoun raised his cow-headed mace to
slay the Serpent-King. But the blessed Serosch swooped
down, and cried-
"Not so, strike not, for Zohak's hour is not yet
come."
Then the Serosch bade the Shah bind the usurper and
carry him far from the haunts of men, and there fasten
him to a rock. And Feridoun did as he was bidden,
and led forth Zohak to the Mount Demawend. And
he bound him to the rock with mighty chains and nails
driven into his hands, and left him to perish in agony.
And the hot sun shone down upon the barren cliffs,
and there was neither tree nor shrub to shelter him, and
the chains entered into his flesh, and his tongue was
consumed with thirst. Thus after a while the earth was
delivered of Zohak the evil one, and Feridoun reigned
in his stead.
FERIDOUN.

IVE hundred years did Feridoun rule the
world, and might and virtue increased in
the land, and all his days he did that which
was good. And he roamed throughout the
kingdom to seek out that which was open
and that which was hid, and wrong was righted at his
hands. With kindness did he curb the sway of evil.
He ordered the world like to a paradise, he planted the
cypress and the rose where the wild herb had sprouted.
Now after many years had passed there were born
to him three sons, whose mother was of the house of
Jemshid. And the sons were fair of mien, tall and
strong, yet their names were not known to men, for
Feridoun had not tested their hearts. But when he
beheld that they were come to years of strength he
called them about his throne and bade them search out
the King of Yemen, who had three daughters, fair as
the moon, that they should woo them unto themselves.
And the sons of Feridoun did according to the com-
mand of their father. They set forth unto Yemen, and
there went with them a host countless as the stars.
FERIDOUN.
15
And when they had come to Yemen, the King came
forth to greet them, and his train was like to the
plumage of a pheasant. Then the sons of Feridoun
gained the hands of the daughters of Serv, King of
Yemen, and departed with them to their own land. And
Serv gave to his new sons much treasure laid upon the
backs of camels, and umbrellas too did he give unto
them in sign of kingship.
Now it came about that when Feridoun learned that
his sons were returning, he went forth to meet them and
prove their hearts. So he took upon him the form of a
dragon that foamed at the mouth with fury, and from
whose jaws sprang mighty flames. And when his sons
had come near unto the mountain pass, he came upon
them suddenly, like to a whirlwind, and raised a cloud
of dust about the place with his writhings, and his roar-
ing filled the air with noise. Then he threw himself
upon the eldest born, and the prince laid down his spear
and said, “A wise and prudent man striveth not with
dragons." And he turned his back and fled before the
monster, and left him to fall upon his brothers. Then
the dragon sprang upon the second, and he said, "An it
be that I must fight, what matter if it be a furious lion
or a knight full of valour?" So he took his bow and
stretched it. But the youngest came towards him, and
seeing the dragon, said, “Thou reptile, flee from our
presence, and strut not in the path of lions. For if thou
hast heard the name of Feridoun, beware how thou doest
16
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
thus, for we are his sons, armed with spears and ready
for the fight. Quit therefore, I counsel thee, thine
evil path, lest I plant upon thy head the crown of
enmity."
Then the glorious Feridoun, when he had thus made
trial of their hearts, vanished from their sight. But
presently he came again with the face of their father,
and many warriors, elephants, and cymbals were in his
train. And Feridoun bore in his hand the cow-headed
mace, and the Kawanee, the apron of Kawah, the kingly
standard, was waved above his head. Now when the
sons saw their father, they alighted from their steeds and
ran to greet him, and kissed the ground before his feet.
And the cymbals were clashed, and the trumpets brayed,
and sounds of rejoicing were heard around. Then
Feridoun raised his sons and kissed their foreheads, and
gave unto them honour according to their due. And
when they had come to the royal house he prayed
to God that he would bless his offspring, and calling
them about him, he seated them upon thrones of
splendour. Then he opened his mouth and said unto
them-
"O my sons, listen unto the words that I shall speak.
The raging dragon whose breath was danger was but
your father, who sought to test your hearts, and having
learned them gave way with joy. But now will I give
to you names such as are fitting unto men. The first-
born shall be called Silim (may thy desires be accom-
FERIDOUN.
17
plished in the world!) for thou soughtest to save thyself
from the clutches of the dragon, nor didst thou hesitate
in the hour of flight. A man who fleeth neither before
an elephant nor a lion, call him rather foolhardy than
brave. And the second, who from the beginning
showed his courage, which was ardent as a flame, I
will call him Tur, the courageous, whom even a mad
elephant cannot daunt. But the youngest is a man
prudent and brave, who knoweth both how to haste and
how to tarry; he chose the midway between the flame
and the ground, as it beseemeth a man of counsel, and he
hath proven himself brave, prudent, and bold. Irij shall
he be called, that the gate of power may be his goal, for
first did he show gentleness, but his bravery sprang
forth at the hour of danger.”
When Feridoun had thus opened his lips he called.
for the book wherein are written the stars, and he
searched for the planets of his sons. And he found
that Jupiter reigned in the sign of the Archer in the
house of Silim, and the sun in the Lion in that of Tur,
but in the house of Irij there reigned the moon in the
Scorpion. And when he saw this he was sorrowful,
for he knew that for Irij were grief and bale held in
store. Then having read the secrets of Fate, Feridoun.
parted the world and gave the three parts unto his sons
in suzerainty. Roum and Khaver, which are the lands
of the setting sun, did he give unto Silim. Turan and
Turkistan did he give unto Tur, and made him master
B
18
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
of the Turks and of China, but unto Irij he gave Iran,
with the throne of might and the crown of supremacy.
For
many years had the sons of Feridoun sat upon
their golden thrones in happiness and peace, but evil was
hidden in the bosom of Fate. For Feridoun had grown
old, and his strength inclined to the grave. And as
his life waned, the evil passions of his sons waxed
stronger. The heart of Silim was changed, and his
desires turned towards evil; his soul also was steeped
in greed. And he pondered in his spirit the parting
of the lands, and he revolted thereat in his thoughts,
because that the youngest wore the crown of supremacy.
Then he bade a messenger mount him upon a drome-
dary swift of foot, and bear this saying unto Tur-
"O King of Turan, thy brother greeteth thee, and may
thy days be long in the land. Tell unto me, I pray
thee, for thou hast might and wisdom, shall we remain
thus ever satisfied? For surely unto us, not unto Irij,
pertaineth the throne of Iran, but now is our brother set
above our heads, and should we not strive against the
injustice of our father?"
Now when Tur had listened to these words his head
was filled with wind, and he spake unto the messenger
and said-
"Say unto your master, O my brother, full of
courage, since our father deceived us when we were
young and void of guile, with his own hands has he
planted a tree whence must issue fruit of blood and
FERIDOUN.
19
leaves that are poison. Let us therefore meet and take
counsel together how we may rid us of our evil fate."
When Silim heard this he set forth from Roum, and
Tur also quitted China, and they met to counsel together
how they should act. Then they sent a messenger unto
Feridoun the glorious, and they said—
"O King, aged and great, fearest thou not to go home
unto thy God? for evil hast thou done, and injustice dost
thou leave behind thee. Thy realm hast thou allotted
with iniquity, and thine eldest born hast thou treated
with disfavour. But we thy sons entreat thee that ere
it be too late thou listen to our voice. Command
thou Irij to step down from the throne of Iran, and
hide him in some corner of the earth, that he be weak
and forgotten like ourselves. Yet if thou doest not our
bidding, we will bring forth riders from Turkestan and
Khaver filled with vengeance, and will utterly destroy
Irij and the land of Iran.”
When Feridoun had listened to these hard words he
was angered, and straightway said-
"Speak unto these men, senseless and impure, these
sons of Ahriman, perverse of heart, and say unto them,
Feridoun rejoiceth that ye have laid bare before him
your hearts, for now he knoweth what manner of men ye
are. And he answereth unto you that he has parted his
realm with equity. Many counsellors did he seek, and
night and day did they ponder it, and gave unto each
that which seemed best in their sight. And he now
20
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
speaketh unto you a word that he doth bid you treasure
in your hearts, As ye sow, so also shall ye reap, for
there is for us another and eternal home. And this is
the rede sent unto you by an aged man, that he who
betrayeth his brother for greed is not worthy to be
sprung from a noble race. So pray unto God that he
turn your hearts from evil.”
When the messenger had heard these words he
departed. Then Feridoun called Irij before him and
warned him against the craft of his brethren, and bade
him prepare an army and go forth to meet them. But
Irij, when he had heard of the evil thoughts of his
brothers, was moved, and said-
"Not so, O my father, suffer that I go forth alone and
speak unto my brethren, that I may still the anger that
they feel against me. And I will entreat them that they
put not their trust in the glory of this world, and will
recall unto them the name of Jemshid, and how that
his end was evil because that he was uplifted in his
heart."
Then Feridoun answered and said, "Go forth, my son,
if such be thy desire. The wish of thy brethren is
even unto war, but thou seekest the paths of peace.
Yet I pray thee take with thee worthy knights, and
return unto me with speed, for my life is rooted in thy
happiness."
And he gave him a letter signed with his royal scal
that he should bear it unto the kings of Roum and
FERIDOUN.
21
China. And Feridoun wrote how that he was old, and
desired neither gold nor treasures, save only that his
sons should be united. And he commended unto them
his youngest born, who had descended from his throne
and come forth to meet them with peace in his heart.
Now when Irij was come to the spot where his
brethren were encamped, the army saw him and was
filled with wonder at his beauty and at his kingly form,
and they murmured among themselves, saying, "Surely
this one alone is worthy to bear the sceptre." But
when Silim and Tur heard this murmur their anger was
deepened, and they retreated into their tents, and all
night long did they hold counsel how they might do
hurt unto their brother.
Now when the curtain that hid the sun was lifted, the
brethren went forth unto the tents of Irij. And Irij
would have greeted them, but they suffered him not,
but straightway began to question him, and heap
reproaches upon his head. And Tur said-
Why hast thou uplifted thyself above us, and is it
meet that thy elders bow down before thee?"
When Irij heard their words, he answered, "O Kings
greedy of power, I say unto you, if ye desire happiness,
strive after peace. I covet neither the royal crown
nor the hosts of Iran; power that endeth in discord
is an honour that leadeth to tears. And I will step
down from the throne of Iran if it shall foster peace
between us, for I crave not the possession of the world
22
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
if ye are afflicted by the sight. For I am humble of
heart, and my faith bids me be kind."
Now Tur heard these words, but they softened not
his spirit, for he knew only that which is evil, and wist
not that Irij spoke truly. And he took up the chair
whereon he sat and threw it at his brother in his anger.
Then Irij called for mercy at his hands, saying—
"O King, hast thou no fear of God, no pity for thy
father? I pray thee destroy me not, lest God ask venge-
ance for my blood. Let it not be spoken that thou who
hast life takest that gift from others. Do not this evil.
Crush not even the tiny ant that beareth a grain of
corn, for she hath life, and sweet life is a boon. I will
vanish from thy sight, I will live in solitude and secrecy,
so thou grant that I may yet behold the sun."
But these words angered Tur only the more, and he
drew from his boot a dagger that was poisoned and
sharp, and he thrust it into the breast of Irij, the kingly
cedar. And the young lord of the world paled and was
dead. Then Tur cut the head from the trunk, and
filled it with musk and ambergris, and sent it unto the
old man his father, who had parted the world, saying—
"Behold the head of thy darling, give unto him now
the crown and the throne."
And when they had done this evil deed the brethren
furled their tents, and turned them back again unto
the lands of Roum and Cathay.
Now Feridoun held his eyes fastened upon the road
...
FERIDOUN.
23
whither Irij was gone, and his heart yearned after him.
And when he heard that the time of his return had come,
he bade a host go forth to meet him, and he himself
went in the wake. Now when they had gone but a little
way they beheld a mighty cloud of dust upon the sky.
And the cloud neared, and there came thence a drome-
dary whereon was seated a knight clad in the garb of
woe. And he bore in his arms a casket of gold, and in
the casket were rich stuffs of silk, and in the stuffs was
wrapped the head of Irij. And when Feridoun beheld the
face of the messenger his heart was smote with fear, but
when he saw the head of his son he fell from his horse
with sorrow.
Then a cry of wailing rent the air, and
the army shouted for grief, and the flags were torn, and
the drums broken, and the elephants and cymbals hung
with the colours of mourning, because that Irij was gone
from the world. And Feridoun returned on foot unto the
city, and all the nobles went with him, and they retraced
their steps in the dust. Now when they had come to
the garden of Irij, Feridoun faltered in his sorrow, and he
pressed the head of the young King, his son, unto his
breast. And he cast black earth upon his throne, and tore
his hair, and shed tears, and his cries mounted even unto
the seventh sphere. And he spake in his grief and said—
"O Master of the world, that metest out justice, look
down, I pray thee, upon this innocent whom his brethren
have foully murdered! Sear their hearts that joy cannot
enter, and grant unto me my prayer. Suffer that I may
24
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
live until a hero, a warrior mighty to avenge, have
sprung from the seed of Irij. Then when I shall have
beheld his face I will go hence as it beseemeth me, and
the earth shall cover my body."
Thus wept Feridoun in the bitterness of his soul, neither
would he take comfort day and night, or quit the garden
of his son.
And the earth was his couch and the dust
his bed, and he watered the ground with his tears. And
he rested in this spot till that the grass had grown above
his bosom, and his eyes were blinded with weeping. Yet
his tongue did not cease from plaining and his heart
from sorrow. And he cried continually-
"O Irij, O my son, my son, never prince died a
death like thine! Thy head was severed by Ahriman,
thy body torn by lions.”
Thus mourned Feridoun, and the voice of lamentation
was abroad.
Then it came about that after many years had passed
Feridoun bethought him of the daughter of Irij, and how
that men said she was fair. And he sought for her in
the house of the women; and when he learned that she
was fair indeed, he desired that a husband be found for
her, and he wedded her unto Pescheng, who was a hero
of the race of Jemshid. And there was born unto them
a son fair and strong, worthy the throne. And when
he was yet but a tender babe they brought him to
Feridoun and cried-
"O Lord of earth, let thy soul rejoice, behold this Irij!"
FERIDOUN.
25
Then the lips of Feridoun were wreathed with smiles,
and he took up the infant in his arms and cried unto
God, saying-
O God, grant that my sight be restored unto me,
that I may behold the face of this babe."
And as he prayed his eyes were opened, and his sight
rested upon his son. Then Feridoun gave thanks unto
God. And he called down blessings upon the child,
and prayed that the day might be blessed also, and
the heart of his enemies be torn with anguish.
And he named him Minuchihr, saying, “A branch
worthy of a noble stock hath borne fruit." And the
child was reared in the house of Feridoun, and he
suffered not that ill came near unto him, and though the
years passed above his head the stars brought him no
evil. And when he was of a ripe age Feridoun gave to
Minuchihr a throne of gold, and a mace, and a crown of
jewels, and the key to all his treasures. Then he com-
manded his nobles that they should do him reverence
and salute him king. And there were gathered about
the throne Karun, the son of Kawah, and Serv,
King of Yemen, and Guerschasp the victorious, and
many other mighty princes more than tongue can name.
But the young Shah outshone them in strength and
beauty, and joy was once more in the land.
But tidings of the splendour that surrounded Feri-
doun pierced even unto the lands of Roum and China,
and the kings thereof were troubled and downcast in
26
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
their hearts.
Then they conferred how they should
regain the favour of the Shah, for they feared Minuchihr
when he should have come unto years of might. So
they sent a messenger unto Feridoun bearing rich gifts,
and bade him speak unto their father and say—
“O Shah, live for ever! I bear a message from the
humblest of thy slaves, who are bowed unto the earth
with contrition, wherefore they have not ventured into
thy presence. And they pray that thou pardon their evil
deed, for their hearts are good, and they did it not of
themselves, but because it was written that they should
do this wrong, and that which is written in the stars surely
it is accomplished. And therefore, O King, their eyes
are filled with tears, and they pray thee incline unto
them thine ear. And as a sign of thy grace send unto
them Minuchihr thy son, for their hearts yearn to look
upon his face and do him homage."
Now when Feridoun had listened to the words of
his sons, he knitted his brows in anger, for he knew
that they sought only to beguile him. And he said
unto the messenger—
"
'Go, say unto your masters that their false-hearted
words shall avail them nothing. And ask them if they
be not shamed to utter white words with tongues of
blackness. I have heard their message, hear now the
answer that I send. Ye say unto me that ye desire the
love of Minuchihr, and I ask of you, What did ye for
Irij? And now that ye are delivered of him ye seek
FERIDOUN.
27
the blood of his son. Verily I say unto you, never
shall ye look upon his face save when he leadeth a
mighty army. Then shall be watered with blood the
leaves and fruits of the tree sprung from the vengeance
that is due. For unto this day has vengeance slumbered,
since it became me not to stretch forth mine hand in
battle upon my sons; but now is there sprung a
branch from the tree which the enemy uprooted, and he
shall come as a raging lion, girt with the vengeance of
his sire. And I say unto you, take back the treasures ye
have sent me, for think ye that for coloured toys I will
abandon my vengeance, and efface for baubles the blood
that ye have spilled, or sell for gold the head of mine
offspring? And say yet again that while the father of
Irij lives he will not abandon his intent. And now that
thou hast listened unto my message, lay it up in thy
heart and make haste from hence."
When the messenger had heard these words he
departed with speed. And when he had come unto
Silim and Tur he told them thereof, and how he had
seen Minuchihr sitting upon a throne of gold, and how
for strength he was like unto Tahumers, who had bound
the Deevs. And he told how heroes bearing names that
filled the world with wonder stood round about him,
Kawah the smith, and Karun his son, and Serv, the
King of Yemen, and next in might unto the Shah was
Saum, the son of Neriman, the unvanquished in fight,
and Guerschasp the victorious, his treasurer. Then he
28
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
spoke of the treasures that filled the house of Feridoun,
and of the army great in number, so that the men of
Roum and China could not stand against them. And
he told how their hearts were filled with hatred of the
Kings because of Irij.
The Kings, when they heard this and the message of
their father, trembled for fear. And Tur said unto
Silim-
"Henceforth we must forego pleasure, for it behoveth
us to hasten, and not tarry till the teeth of this
young lion be sharpened, and he be waxed tall and
strong."
Then they made ready their armies, and the
number of their men was past the counting. Helmet
was joined to helmet, and spear to spear, and jewels,
baggage, and elephants without number went with them,
and you would have said it was a host that none
could withstand. And they marched from Turan
unto Iran, and the two Kings rode before them, their
hearts filled with hate. But the star of these evil ones
was sinking. For Feridoun, when he learned that an
army had crossed the Jihun, called unto him Minu-
chihr his son, and bade him place himself at the head of
the warriors. And the host of the Shah was mighty
to behold, great and strong, and it covered the land like
unto a cloud of locusts. And they marched from Tem-
mische unto the desert, and Minuchihr commanded
them with might. And on his right rode Karun the
FERIDOUN.
29
Avenger, and on his left Saum, the son of Neriman, and
above their heads waved the flag of Kawah, and their
armour glistened in the sun. Like as a lion breaketh
forth from the jungle to seize upon his prey, so did this
army rush forth to avenge the death of Irij. And the
head of Minuchihr rose above the rest like to the
moon or the sun when it shineth above the mountains.
And he exhorted them in words of fire that they rest
not, neither weary, until they should have broken the
power of these sons of Ahriman.
Now Tur and Silim, when they saw that the Iranians
had come out against them, set in order their army.
And when the day had torn asunder the folds of night,
the two armies met in battle, and the fight waged strong.
until the setting of the sun. And the earth was a sea of
blood, and the feet of the elephants were like to pillars
of coral. And when the sun had sunk to his rest, Tur
and Silim consulted how they might seize upon Minu-
chihr by fraud, for they saw that his arm was strong
and his courage undaunted. So Tur set forth at the
head of a small band to surprise him in his tents. But
Minuchihr was aware of his evil plans, and sprang
upon him. And when Tur would have fled Minuchihr
followed after him and struck a lance into his back.
And when he had killed him he cut his head from his
trunk, and the body did he give unto the wild beasts,
but the head he sent to Feridoun. And he wrote to
him and sent him greeting, and told him all that had
30
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
come about, and how he should neither rest nor tarry
until the death of Irij be avenged.
Now Silim, when he learned the fate of his brother,
was sore afraid, and cast about him for an ally. And
there came unto him Kakoui, of the seed of Zohak.
But Minuchihr wrestled with him for a morning's space
and overcame him also, though the Deev was strong
and powerful in fight. Then Silim was cast down yet.
more, and he sought to hide him by the sea-shore. But
Minuchihr cut off his path and overtook him, and with
his own hand he slew him, and cut his head from his
trunk. And he raised the head upon his lance. And
when the army of Silim saw this they fled into the hills,
and vanished like cattle whom the snow has driven
from their pasture. Then they took counsel and chose
out a man from among their midst, one that was prudent
and gentle of speech. And they bade him go before
the Shah and say--
"Have mercy upon us, O Shah, for neither hate
nor vengeance drove us forth against thee, but only
this, that we obeyed the wills of our lords.
But we
ourselves are peaceful men, tillers of the earth and
keepers of cattle, and we pray thee that thou let us
return in safety whence we have come.
And we
acknowledge thee our Shah, and we pray thee make
thy servants acquainted with thy desires."
When Minuchihr had heard these words he spake and
said-
FERIDOUN.
3r
"My desire is not after these men, neither is my long-
ing after blood but mercy. Let every man lay down his
arms and go his ways, and let peace be in the land,
and joy wait upon your feet."
When the men heard this they praised the Shah, and
called down blessings upon his head. And they came
before him, every man bearing his armour and the
weapons of battle. And they laid them at his feet, and
of weapons there was reared a mighty mountain, and the
blue steel glistened in the sun. Then Minuchihr dis-
missed them graciously. And when the army was dis-
persed he sent a messenger unto Feridoun bearing the
head of Silim and a writing. And when he had ordered
all things he set out at the head of his warriors unto the
city of Feridoun. And his grandsire came forth to meet
him, and there came with him many elephants swathed
in gold, and warriors arrayed in rich attire, and a
large multitude clad in garments of bright hue. And
flags waved above them, and trumpets brayed, and
cymbals clashed, and sounds of rejoicing filled the air.
But when Minuchihr saw that his grandsire came to-
wards him, he got from his horse and ran to meet him,
and fell at his feet and craved his blessing. And Feri-
doun blessed Minuchihr and raised him from the dust.
And he bade him sit again upon his horse and took his
hand, and they entered the city in triumph. And when
they had come to the King's house, Feridoun seated.
32
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Minuchihr upon a throne of gold. Then he called unto
him Saum, the son of Neriman, and said-
"I pray thee bring up this youth and nourish him for
the kingdom, and aid him with thy might and mind."
And he took the hand of Minuchihr and put it into
that of Saum, and said-
"Thanks be unto God the merciful, who hath listened
unto my voice, and granted the desires of his servant.
For now shall I go hence, and the world will I cumber
no more."
Then when he had given gifts unto his servants he
withdrew into solitude, and gazed without cease upon
the heads of his sons, neither refrained he from bewailing
their evil fate, and the sorrow they had brought upon
him. And daily he grew fainter, and at last the light
of his life expired, and Feridoun vanished from the
earth, but his name remained behind him. And Minu-
chihr mourned for his grandsire with weeping and
lamentation, and raised above him a stately tomb.
when the seven days of mourning were ended, he put
upon his head the crown of the Kaianides, and girt his
loins with a red sash of might. And the nation called
him Shah, and he was beloved in the land.
But
ZAL.

EISTAN, which is to the south of Iran,
was ruled by Saum, the Pehliva, girt with
might and glory, and, but for the grief
that he was childless, his days were happy.
Then it came to pass that a son was born
unto him, beautiful of face and limb, who had neither
fault nor blemish save that his hair was like unto that
of an aged man. Now the women were afraid to tell
Saum, lest he be wroth when he should learn that his
child was thus set apart from his fellow-men. So the
infant had gazed upon the light eight days ere he knew
thereof. Then a woman, brave above the rest, ventured
into his presence. She bowed herself unto the dust and
craved of Saum the boon of speech. And he suffered
her, and she spake, saying—
"May the Lord keep and guard thee. May thine
enemies be utterly destroyed. May the days of Saum
the hero be happy. For the Almighty has accom-
plished his desire. He has given to him an heir, a son
has been born unto the mighty warrior behind the
curtains of his house, a moon-faced boy, beautiful of
C
34
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
face and limb, in whom there is neither fault nor
blemish, save that his hair is like unto that of an aged
I beseech thee, O my master, bethink thee that
this gift is from God, nor give place in thine heart to
ingratitude."
man.
When Saum had listened to her words he arose
and went unto the house of the women. And he
beheld the babe that was beautiful of face and limb,
but whose head was like unto that of an aged man.
Then Saum, fearing the jeers of his enemies, quitted
the paths of wisdom. He lifted his head unto heaven
and murmured against the Lord of Destiny, and cried,
saying-
"O thou eternally just and good, O source of happi-
ness, incline thine ear unto me and listen to my voice.
If I have sinned, if I have strayed in the paths of
Ahriman, behold my repentance and pardon me. My
soul is ashamed, my heart is angered for reason of this
child, for will not the nobles say this boy presageth
evil? They will hold me up to shame, and what
can I reply to their questions?
It behoveth me
to remove this stain, that the land of Iran be not
accursed."
Thus spake Saum in his anger, railing against fate, and
he commanded his servants to take the child and cast it
forth out of the land.
Now there standeth far from the haunts of men the
Mount Alberz, whose head toucheth the stars, and never
ZAL.
35
had mortal foot been planted upon its crest.
And upon
it had the Simurgh, the bird of marvel, builded her nest.
Of ebony and of sandal-wood did she build it, and
twined it with aloe, so that it was like unto a king's
house, and the evil sway of Saturn could not reach
thereto. And at the foot of this mount was laid the
child of Saum. Then the Simurgh, when she spied
the infant lying upon the ground, bereft of clothes and
wherewithal to nourish it, sucking its fingers for very
hunger, darted to earth and raised him in her talons.
And she bore him unto her nest, that her young might
devour him. But when she had brought him her heart
was stirred within her for compassion. Therefore she
bade her young ones spare the babe and treat him like
to a brother. Then she chose out tender flesh to feed her
guest, and tended the infant forsaken of his sire. And
thus did the Simurgh, nor ever wearied till that moons
and years had rolled above their heads, and the babe had
grown to be a youth full of strength and beauty. And
his renown filled the land, for neither good nor evil can
be hidden for ever. And his fame spread even unto the
ears of Saum, the son of Neriman.
Then it came to pass that Saum, dreamed a dream,
wherein he beheld a man riding towards him mounted
upon an Arab steed. And the man gave him tidings
of his son, and taunted him, saying—
"O thou who hast offended against every duty, who
disownest thy son because that his hair is white, though
36
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
thine own resembleth the silver poplar, and to whom a
bird seemeth fit nurse for thine offspring, wilt thou abjure
all kinship with him for ever?"
Now when Saum awoke he remembered his dream,
and fear came upon him for his sin. And he called unto
him his Mubids, and questioned them concerning the
stripling of the Mount Alberz, and whether this could
be indeed his son, for surely frosts and heat must long
since have destroyed him. Then the Mubids answered
and said-
"Not so, thou most ungrateful unto God, thou more
cruel than the lion, the tiger, and the crocodile, for even
savage beasts tend their young, whilst thou didst reject
thine own, because thou heldest the white hair given
unto him by his Creator for a reproach in the sight of
men. O faint of heart, arise and seek thy child, for
surely one whom God hath blessed can never perish.
And turn thou unto him and pray that he forgive thee.”
When Saum had heard these words he was contrite,
and called about him his army and set forth unto the
mountains. And when they were come unto the mount
that is raised up to the Pleiades, Saum beheld the
Simurgh and the nest, and a stripling that was like unto
himself walking around it. And his desire to get unto
him was great, but he strove in vain to scale the crest.
Then Saum called upon God in his humility. And God
heard him, and put it into the heart of the Simurgh to
look down and behold the warrior and the army that
ZAL.
37
was with him. And when she had seen Saum she
knew wherefore the chief had come, and she spake and
said-
"O thou who hast shared this nest, I have reared thee
and been to thee a mother, for thy father cast thee out;
the hour has come to part us, and I must give thee again
unto thy people. For thy father is Saum the hero,
the Pehliva of the world, greatest among the great,
and he has come hither to seek his son, and splendour
awaiteth thee beside him."
When the youth had heard her words his eyes were
filled with tears and his heart with sorrow, for he had
never gazed upon men, though he had learned their
speech. And he said-
"Art thou then weary of me, or am I no longer
fit to be thy house-fellow? See, thy nest is unto me a
throne, thy sheltering wings a parent. To thee I owe
all that I am, for thou wast my friend in need.”
And the Simurgh answered him saying, "I do not
send thee away for enmity, O my son; nay, I would keep
thee beside me for ever, but another destiny is better
for thee. When thou shalt have seen the throne and
its pomp my nest will sink in thine esteem. Go forth,
therefore, my son, and try thy fortune in the world. But
that thou mayst remember thy nurse who shielded thee,
and reared thee amid her little ones, that thou mayst
remain under the shadow of her wings, bear with thee
this feather from her breast. And in the day of thy
38
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
need cast it into the fire, and I will come like unto a
cloud and deliver thee from danger."
Thus she spake, and raised him in her talons and bore
him to the spot where Saum was bowed to the dust in
penitence. Now when Saum beheld his son, whose body
was like unto an elephant's for strength and beauty, he
bent low before the Simurgh and covered her with beni-
son. And he cried out and said-
"O Shah of birds, O bird of God, who confoundest the
wicked, mayst thou be great for ever."
But while he yet spake the Simurgh flew upwards, and
the gaze of Saum was fixed upon his son. And as he
looked he saw that he was worthy of the throne, and that
there was neither fault nor blemish in him, save only
his silvery locks. Then his heart rejoiced within him,
and he blessed him, and entreated his forgiveness. And
he said-
"O my son, open thine heart unto the meanest of God's
servants, and I swear unto thee, in the presence of him
that made us, that never again will I harden my heart
towards thee, and that I will grant unto thee all thy
desires."
Then he clothed him in rich robes and named him Zal,
which being interpreted meaneth the aged. And he
showed him unto the army. And when they had looked
on the youth they saw that he was goodly of visage and
of limb, and they shouted for very joy. Then the host
Inade them ready to return unto Seistan. And the
ZAL.
39
kettle-drummers rode at their head, mounted upon
mighty elephants whose feet raised a cloud of dust
that rose unto the sky. And the tabors were beat,
and the trumpets brayed, and the cymbals clashed,
and sounds of rejoicing filled the land because that
Saum had found his son, and that Zal was a hero among
men.
Now the news spread even unto Minuchihr that Saum
was returning from the mountains with great pomp and
joy. And when he had heard it he bade Nuder go forth
to meet the Pehliva and bid him bring Zal unto the court.
And when Saum heard the desires of his master he
obeyed and came within his gates. Then he beheld the
Shah seated upon the throne of the Kaianides, bearing
his crown upon his head, and on his right hand sat
Karun the Pehliva, and he bade Saum be seated on his
left. And the Shah commanded Saum that he should
speak. Then Saum unbosomed himself before the Shah
and spake concerning his son, neither did he hide his
evil deed. And Minuchihr commanded that Zal be
brought before him. So the chamberlains brought
him into the presence of the King, and he was
clad in robes of splendour, and the King was
amazed at his aspect. And he turned and said unto
Saum-
"O Pehliva of the world, the Shah enjoineth you have
a care of this noble youth, and guard him for the land
of Iran. And teach him forthwith the arts of war, and
40
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
the pleasures and customs of the banquet, for how
should one that has been reared in a nest be familiar
with our ways?"
Then the Shah bade the Mubids cast Zal's horoscope,
and they read that he would be a brave and prudent
knight. Now when he had heard this the Pehliva was
delivered of all his fears, and the Shah rejoiced and
covered Saum with gifts. Arab horses did he give unto
him with golden saddles, Indian swords in scabbards of
gold, brocades of Roum, skins of beasts, and carpets of
Ind, and the rubies and pearls were past the numbering.
And slaves poured musk and amber before him. And
Minuchihr also granted to Saum a throne, and a crown
and a girdle of gold, and he named him ruler of all the
lands that stretch from the Sea of China to that of Sind,
from Zaboulistan to the Caspian. Then he bade that
the Pehliva's horse be led forth, and sent him away from
his presence. And Saum called down blessings upon
the Shah, and turned his face towards home. And his
train followed after him, and the sound of music went
before them.
Then when the tidings came to Seistan that the great
hero was drawing nigh, the city decked itself in festive
garbs, and every man called down the blessings of Heaven
upon Zal, the son of Saum, and poured gifts at his feet.
And there was joy in all the land for that Saum had
taken back his son.
Now Saum forthwith called about him his Mubids,
ZAL.
41
and bade them instruct the youth in all the virtues of a
king.
And daily Zal increased in wisdom and strength, and
his fame filled the land. And when Saum went forth
to fight the battles of the
Shah, he left the kingdom
under his hands, and Zal administered it with judgment.
and virtue.

ZAL AND RUDABEH.

NON it came about that Zal desired to see
the kingdom. And he set forth, and there
followed after him a goodly train, and
when they had journeyed a while they
marched with pomp into Cabul. Now
Mihrab, who was descended from Zohak the Serpent,
reigned in Cabul, yet he was worthy, prudent, and wise.
When he heard that the son of Saum, to whom he paid
tribute, drew nigh unto the city, he went out to meet
him, and his nobles went with him, and slaves bearing
costly gifts. And Zal, hearing that Mihrab was at hand,
prepared a feast in his tents, and Mihrab and his train
feasted with him until the night was far spent. Now,
after the King had gone, Zal praised his beauty. Then
a noble rose up and said unto him-
66
O Zal, thou knowest not beauty since thou hast not
beheld the daughter of this man. For she is like unto
the slender cypress, her face is brighter than the sun,
her mouth is a pomegranate flower."
When Zal heard these words he was filled with
longing, and sleep would not visit his eyelids for think-
ing of her beauty.
ZAL AND RUDABEH.
43
Now, when the day dawned he opened the doors of
his court, and the nobles stood about him, each man
according to his rank. And presently there came from
Cabul Mihrab the King to tender morning greeting to
the stranger without his gates. And Zal desired that
Mihrab should crave a boon at his hands. Then spake
Mihrab unto him saying-
"O ruler mighty and great, I have but one desire,
and to bring it to pass is easy. For I crave thee that
thou dwell as guest beneath my roof, and let my heart
rejoice in thy presence."
Then Zal said unto him, “O King, ask not this boon
at my hands, I pray thee, for it can in nowise be ac-
complished. The Shah and Saum would be angered
should they learn that I had eaten under the roof of
Zohak. I beg of thee ask aught but this.”
When Mihrab heard these words he was sorrowful,
and bent low before Zal, and departed from out the
tents. And the eye of Zal looked after him, and yet
again he spake his praises. Then he bethought him of
the King's daughter, and how that she was fair, and he
was sunk in brooding and desire, and the days passed
unheeded over his head.
Now it came to pass that on a certain morning Mihrab
stepped forth from his palace to the house of the women
to visit Sindokht his wife, and her daughter Rudabeh.
Truly the house was like to a garden for colour and
perfume, and over all shone those moons of beauty.
44
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Now when Mihrab had greeted Rudabeh he marvelled at
her loveliness, and called down the blessings of Heaven
upon her head. Then Sindokht opened her lips and
questioned Mihrab concerning the stranger whose tents.
were without their gates. And she said-
"I pray thee tell unto me what manner of man is
this white-haired son of Saum, and is he worthy the
nest or the throne?"
Then Mihrab said unto her, "O my fair cypress, the
son of Saum is a hero among men. His heart is like
unto a lion's, his strength is as an elephant's, to his
friends he is a gracious Nile, unto his enemies a wasting
crocodile. And in him are even blemishes turned to
beauties, his white locks but enhance his glory."
When Rudabeh had listened to these words her heart
burned with love for Zal, so that she could neither eat
nor rest, and was like unto one that hath changed her
shape. And after a while, because that she could bear
the burden thereof no longer, she told her secret to the
slaves that loved and served her. And she charged
them tell no man, and entreated of them that they
would aid her to allay the troubles of her heart. And
when the slaves had listened to her story they were
filled with fear, and with one accord entreated her that
she would dismiss from her heart one branded among men,
and whom his own father had cast out. But Rudabeh
would not listen to their voice. And when they beheld
that she was firm in her spirit, and that their words were
ZAL AND RUDABEH.
45
vain, they cast about how they might serve her. And
one among them who was wise above the rest opened
her lips and spake—
"O moon-faced beauty, slender cypress, it shall be
done at thy desire. Thy slaves will neither rest nor
slumber until the royal youth shall have become the
footstool to thy feet."
Then Rudabeh was glad and said—
“An the issue be happy, there shall be planted for
thee a noble tree, and it shall bear riches and jewels,
and wisdom shall cull its fruits."
Then the slaves pondered in their hearts how they
should compass their end, for they knew that only by
craft could it be brought about. Straightway they
clothed themselves in costly raiment, and went forth
blithely into the garden of flowers that was spread
beside the river's bank without the city. And they
gathered roses, and decked their hair with blossoms, and
threw them into the stream for sooth-telling; and as they
gathered they came unto the spot over against which
were pitched the tents of Zal. Now Zal beheld them
from his tent, and he questioned concerning these rose-
gatherers. And one uprose and said unto him—
"They are slaves sent forth by the moon of Cabul
into the garden of flowers."
Now when Zal heard this his heart leaped for joy, and
he set forth unto the river's bank with only one page
to bear him company. And seeing a water-bird fly
46
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
upward, he took his bow and shot it through the heart,
and it fell among the rose-gatherers. Then Zal bade
the boy cross the water and bring him the bird. And
when he had landed, the moon-faced women pressed.
about him and questioned him, saying-
"O youth, tell us the name of him who aimeth thus
surely, for verily he is a king among men.”
Then the boy answering said, "What! know ye not
the son of Saum the hero? The world hath not his
equal for strength and beauty."
But the girls reproved him, and said, "Not so, boast
not thus vainly, for the house of Mihrab holdeth a sun
that o'ershines all besides."
And the page smiled, and the smile yet lingered on
his lips when he came back to Zal. And Zal said—
Why smilest thou, boy? What have they spoken
unto thee that thou openest thy lips and showest thy
ivory teeth?”
Then the boy told unto him the speech of the women.
And Zal said—
"Go over yet again and bid them tarry, that they
may bear back jewels with their roses."
And he chose forth from among his treasures trinkets
of pearl and gold, and sent them to the slaves. Then
the one who had sworn to serve Rudabeh above the rest
craved that she might look upon the face of the hero,
for she said-
"A secret that is known to three is one no longer."
ZAL AND RUDABEH.
47
And Zal granted her desire, and she told him of
Rudabeh and of her beauty, and his passion burned the
more. And he spake-
"Show unto me, I pray thee, the path by which I
may behold this fair one, for my heart is filled with
longing."
Then the slave said, "Suffer that we go back to the
house of the women, and we will fill the ears of
Rudabeh with praises of the son of Saum, and will
entangle her in the meshes of our net, and the lion shall
rejoice in his chase of the lamb."
Then Zal bade her go forth, and the women returned
to the house rejoicing and saying-
"The lion enters the snare spread forth to entrap
him, and the wishes of Rudabeh and Zal will be accom-
plished."
But when they had come to the gates the porter chid
them that they had gone without while the stranger
sojourned in Cabul, and they were troubled and sore
afraid for their secret. But they stilled his wrath and
came unto where Rudabeh awaited them. And they
told her of Zal, the son of Saum, and of his beauty and
his prowess. And Rudabeh smiled and said—
"Wherefore have ye thus changed your note? for a
while back ye spake with scorn of this bird-reared youth,
on whose head hang the locks of a sage, but now are
ye loud in his praises."
Then Rudabeh began privily to deck her house that
48
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
it might be worthy a guest. With brocades of Roum
and carpets of Ind did she hang it, and she perfumed it
with musk and ambergris, and flowers did she cause to
bloom about the rooms. And when the sun had sunk,
and the doors of the house were locked and the keys
withdrawn, a slave went forth unto Zal, the son of Saum.
And she spake unto him in a low voice-
"Come now, for all is ready."
And Zal followed after her. And when they had
come to the house of the women Zal beheld the
daughter of the King standing upon the roof, and her
beauty was like unto a cypress on which the full moon
shineth. And when she beheld him, she spake and
said-
'I bid thee welcome, O young man, son of a hero,
and may the blessing of Heaven rest upon thee.”
And Zal answered her benison, and prayed that he
might enter into nearer converse, for he was on the
ground and she was on the roof. Then the Peri-faced
loosened her tresses, and they were long, so that they
fell from the battlements unto the ground. And she
said unto Zal-
"Here hast thou a cord without flaw, mount, O
Pehliva, and seize my black locks, for it is fitting that I
should be a snare unto thee."
But Zal cried, "Not so, O fair one, it would beseem
me ill to do thee hurt."
And he covered her hair with kisses. Then he

ZAL AND RUDABEH.
49
called for a cord and made a running knot, and threw
it upwards and fastened it to the battlements. And
with a bound he swung himself upon the roof. Then
Rudabeh took his hand and they stepped down to-
gether into the golden chambers, and the slaves stood
round about them. And they gazed upon each other
and knew that they excelled in beauty, and the hours
slipped by in sweet talk, while love was fanned in their
hearts. Then Zal cried-
"O fair cypress, musk-perfumed, when Minuchihr
shall learn of this he will be angered and Saum also will
chide. And they will say I have forgotten my God, and
will lift their hands against me. But I swear unto thee
that this life is to me vile if it be not spent in thy
presence. And I call upon heaven to hear me that
none other but thee will I call my bride."
And Rudabeh said, "I too will swear unto thee this
oath."
So the hours sped, and there arose from out the
tents of the King the sound of drums that announce
the coming of the day. Then cried Zal and Rudabeh
of one accord-
O glory of the world, tarry yet a while, neither arrive
so quickly."
But the sun gave no ear to their reproaches, and the
hour to part had come. Then Zal swung himself from
the battlements unto the ground, and quitted the house
of his beloved.
D
50
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Now when the earth was flooded with light, and the
nobles and chiefs had tendered unto Zal their morning
greetings as was their wont, he called about him his
Mubids, and laid before them how that he was filled
with love for a daughter of the Serpent. And the
Mubids when they heard it were troubled, and their
lips were closed, and the words were chained upon their
tongues. For there was none of them that listed to
mingle poison in the honey of this love. Whereupon
Zal reproved them, and said that he would bestow on
them rich gifts if they would open their mouths. Then
they spake and said unto him that the honour of a king
could not suffer by a woman, and though Mihrab be
indeed of Zohak's race, he was noble and valiant. And
they urged him to write unto his father and crave Saum
to wait upon the Shah.
Then Zal called unto him a scribe and bade him write
down the words that he spake. And he told unto Saum
his love and his fears. And he recalled unto him how
that he had cast him out, and how that he had lived in
a nest, and a bird had reared him, and the sun had
poured down upon his head, and raw flesh had been his
nourishment the while his father had sat within a goodly
house clothed in silk. And he recalled the promise
given to him by Saum.
Neither did he seek to justify
that which had come about. Then he gave the letter to
a messenger, and bade him ride until he should be come
into the presence of Saum.
ZAL AND RUDABEH.
51
When Saum had heard the words of his son his spirit
was troubled, and he cried-
"Woe unto me, for now is clear what has so long been
hidden. One whom a wild bird hath reared looks for
the fulfilment of wild desires, and seeks union with an
accursed race."
For
And he pondered long what he should answer.
he said, "If I say, Abandon this desire, sow no discord,
return to reason, I break my oath and God will punish
me. Yet if I say, Thy desire is just, satisfy the passions
of thy heart, what offspring can come to pass from the
union of a Deev and the nursling of a bird?"
And the heart of Saum was heavy with care. So he
called unto him his Mubids that they should search the
stars, for he said-
"If I mingle fire and water I do ill, and ill will
come of it."
Then all that day the Wise Men searched the secrets
of Fate, and they cast the horoscope of Zal and Rudabeh,
and at even they returned to the King rejoicing. And
they found him torn with anguish. Then they said-
"Hail unto thee, O Saum, for we have followed the
movement of the stars and counted their course, and we
have read the message of the skies. And it is written,
'A clear spring shall issue into the day, a son shall be
born to Zal, a hero full of power and glory, and there
shall not be his like in Iran.'
Now when Saum had drunk in these words, his soul
52
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
was uplifted, and he poured gifts upon the Mubids.
Then he called to him the messenger of Zal, and he
gave him pieces of silver, and bade him return unto his
master and say—
"I hold thy passion folly, O my son, but because of the
oath that I have sworn to thee it shall be done at thy
desire. I will hie me unto Iran and lay thy suit before
the Shah."
Then Saum called together his army and set forth
for Iran, and the sound of trumpets and cymbals went
before him.
Now when the messenger had come back to Zal, he
rejoiced and praised God, and gave gold and silver to
the poor, and gifts unto his servants. But when night
was come he could not close his eyes in slumber, nor
could he rest during the day. Neither did he drink wine
or demand the singers, for his soul was filled with long-
ing after his love, And presently there came out to him
a slave, and he gave unto her Saum's letter that she
might bear it to Rudabeh. And Rudabeh rejoiced also,
and chose from among her treasures a costly crown and
a ring of worth, and bade the woman bear them unto
Zal. Now as she quitted the chamber she met Sindokht.
And the Queen questioned her and said—
"Whence comest thou? Reply to all my questions,
neither seek thou to deceive me, for already a long time
do I suspect thy passing to and fro."
And the woman trembled as she heard these words,
ZAL AND RUDABEH.
53
and fell down and kissed the feet of the Queen, and
said-
"Have pity on thine handmaiden, who is poor and
gaineth her bread as she can. I go into the houses of
the rich and sell to them robes and jewels. And
Rudabeh has this day bought of me a tiara and a
bracelet of gold."
Then said Sindokht, “Show unto me the money thou
hast received for the same, that my anger be appeased."
And the woman answered and said, "Demand not
that I show unto thee that which I have not, for
Rudabeh will pay me to-morrow.”
Now Sindokht knew that these words were feigned,
and she searched the sleeve of the woman, and lo! she
found therein the tiara that Rudabeh had broidered with
her hands. Then she was angered, and commanded
that the slave be bound in chains. And she desired that
her daughter be brought into her presence. And when
she was come, Sindokht opened her mouth and spake,
saying-
"O moon of noble race, to whom has been taught
naught but that which is good, how hast thou gone
astray upon the paths of evil? O my daughter, confide
unto thy mother thy secrets. From whom cometh this
woman? For what man are destined thy gifts?"
When she had heard, Rudabeh was abashed, but
after a while she told all unto Sindokht. Now when the
Queen had heard she was confounded, for she feared
54
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
the wrath of the Shah, and that he would raze Cabul to
the dust for this mischance.
And she went into her
Then presently Mihrab
rooms and wept in her sorrow.
the King came in to Sindokht, and he was of joyful
mind, for Zal had received him graciously. But when
he beheld her tears he questioned of her grief. Then
she told him how that his daughter was filled with love
for Zal, the son of Saum. And when Mihrab had heard
her to an end, his heart also was troubled, for he knew
that Cabul could not stand before the Shah.
Minuchihr, too, when he had heard these things, was
troubled, for he beheld in them the device of Ahriman,
and feared lest this union should bring evil upon Iran.
And he bade Nauder call Saum before him. Now when
Saum heard the desire of the Shah, he spake and said—
"I obey, and the sight of the King will be a banquet
unto my soul."
Then Saum went into the presence of Minuchihr, and
he kissed the ground, and called down blessings upon the
head of the Shah. But Minuchihr raised him and seated
him beside him on the throne, and straightway began
to question him concerning the war, and the Deevs of
Mazinderan. Then Saum told him all the story of his
battles. And Minuchihr listened with joy though the
tale was long, and when Saum had ended he praised
his prowess.
And he lifted his crown unto heaven and
rejoiced that his enemies were thus confounded. Then
he bade a banquet be spread, and all night long the
ZAL AND RUDABEH.
55
heroes feasted and shortened the hours with wine. But
when the first rays of morn had shed their light, the
curtains of the Shah's house were opened, that he might
hold audience and grant the petitions of his people.
And Saum the Pehliva came the first to stand before
the King, for he desired to speak to him of Zal. But
the Shah of the world would not suffer him open his
lips, but said unto him-
"Go hence, O Saum, and take with thee thine army,
for I command thee to go yet again to battle. Set forth
unto Cabul and burn the house of Mihrab the King, and
utterly destroy his race and all who serve him, nor
suffer that any of the seed of Zohak escape destruction,
for I will that the earth be delivered of this serpent
brood."
When Saum heard these words he knew that the
Shah was angered, and that speech would avail him
naught. So he kissed the throne and touched the earth
with his forehead, and said, "Lord, I am thy servant,
and I obey thy desires." And he departed, and the
earth trembled under the stamping of footmen and of
hoofs, and the air of the city was darkened with his
spears.
Now the news of Saum's intent reached even unto
Cabul, and the land was sunk in woe, and weeping filled
the house of the King. But Zal was wroth, and he went
forth to meet his father. And when he had come to
the spot where he had encamped his army, he craved an
55
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
audience. And Saum granted it, and Zal reminded him
yet again of his oath, and desired that he would spare
the land of Cabul, nor visit his judgments upon the
innocent. When Saum had listened, his heart was
moved, and he said-
"O my son, thou speakest that which is right. To
thee have I been unjust from the day of thy birth. But
stay thy wrath, for surely I will find a remedy, and thy
wishes shall yet be accomplished. For thou shalt bear
a letter unto the Shah, and when he shall have looked
on thy face, he will be moved with compassion and
cease to trouble thee."
Then Zal kissed the ground before his father and
craved the blessings of God upon his head. And Saum
dictated a letter to the Shah, and he spoke therein of
all he had done for Minuchihr, and how he had killed
the dragon that had laid waste the land, how he had
ever subdued the foes of Iran, and how the frontiers
were enlarged by his hands. Yet now was he waxing
old, and could no longer do doughty deeds.
brave son was his, worthy and true, who would follow
in his footsteps. Only his heart was devoured of
love, and perchance he would die if his longing were
unsatisfied. And therewith he commended to the
wisdom of the Shah the affairs of Zal.
But a
When the letter was ended Zal set forth with it unto
the Court, and the flower of his army went with him.
But the fear of Minuchihr was great in Cabul, and
ZAL AND RUDABEH.
57
Mihrab pondered how he should quench the wrath of the
King of kings. And he spake to Sindokht and said—
"For that the King is angered against me because
of thee and thy daughter, and because I cannot stand
before him, I will lead Rudabeh unto his Court and
kill her before his eyes.
Perchance his anger may be
thus allayed."
Sindokht listened to his words in silence, and when
he had ended she cast about her for a plan, for she was
quick of wit. And when she had found one she came
again into the presence of Mihrab, and she craved of him
that he should give her the key of his treasury. For
she said-
"This is not the hour to be strait-handed; suffer that
I take what seemeth good unto me and go before Saum,
it may be that I move him to spare the land."
And Mihrab agreed to her demand because of the
fear that devoured him. Then Sindokht went out to the
house of Saum, and she took with her three hundred
thousand pieces of gold, and sixty horses caparisoned
in silver, bearing sixty slaves that held cups filled to the
brim with musk and camphor, and rubies, and turquoise,
and precious stones of every kind. And there followed
two hundred dromedaries and four tall Indian elephants
laden with carpets and brocades of Roum, and the train
reached for two miles beyond the King's gates. Now
when Sindokht had come to Seistan she bade the
guardians of the door say unto Saum that an envoy had
58
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
come from Cabul bearing a message.
And Saum
granted an audience, and Sindokht was brought into his
presence. Then she kissed the ground at his feet and
called upon heaven to shower down blessings on his
head. And when she had done so, she caused her gifts
to be laid before Saum, and when Saum beheld these
treasures, he marvelled and thought within himself,
"How cometh it that a woman is sent as envoy from
a land that boasteth such riches? If I accept them
the Shah will be angered, and if I refuse perchance.
Zal will reproach me that I rob him of his heritage."
So he lifted his head and said-
"Let these treasures be given unto the treasurer of
my son."
When Sindokht beheld that her gifts were accepted,
she rejoiced and raised her voice in speech. And she
questioned Saum, saying-
"Tell me, I pray thee, what wrong have the people of
Cabul done unto thee that thou wouldst destroy them?"
Then answered Saum the hero, "Reply unto my
questions and lie not. Art thou the slave or the wife of
Mihrab, and is it thy daughter whom Zal has seen? If
indeed it be so, tell me, I pray, of her beauty, that I
may know if she be worthy of my son."
Then Sindokht said, "O Pehliva, swear to me first a
great oath that thou wilt spare my life and the lives of
those dear unto me. And when I am assured of thy
protection I will recount all that thou desirest."
ZAL AND RUDABEH.
59
Then Saum took the hand of Sindokht, and he sware
unto her a great oath, and gave her his word and his
promise. And when she had heard it she was no longer
afraid, and she told him all her secrets. And she said—
"I am of the race of Zohak, and wife unto the
valiant Mihrab, and mother of Rudabeh, who has found.
favour in the eyes of thy son. And I am come to learn
of thy desire, and who are thine enemies in Cabul.
Destroy the wicked and those who merit chastisement,
but spare, I pray thee, the innocent, or thy deeds will
change day into night."
Then spake Saum, "My oath is sacred, and if it cost
my life, thou and thine and Cabul may rest assured that
I will not harm them. And I desire that Zal should
find a wife in Rudabeh, though she be of an alien race."
Then he told her how that he had written to the Shah
a letter of supplication such as only one in grief could
pen, and how Zal was absent with the message, and
he craved her to tell him of Ruda beh.
But Sindokht replied, "If the Pehliva of the world.
will make the hearts of his slaves rejoice, he will visit us
and look with his own eyes upon our moon."
And Saum smiled and said, "Rest content and
deliver thine heart of cares, for all shall end according
unto thy desires."
When Sindokht heard this she bade him farewell and
made all haste to return. And Saum loaded her with
gifts and bade her depart in peace. And Sindokht's
60
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
face shone brightly, like unto the moon when she has
been eclipsed, and hope once more reigned in her breast.
Now listen to what happened to Zal while these
things were passing in Seistan. When he was come to
the Court of Minuchihr he hastened into his presence,
and kissed the ground at his feet, and lay prostrate
before him in the dust. And when the Shah saw this
he was moved, and bade his servants raise Zal, and pour
musk before him. Then Zal drew nigh unto the throne
and gave to the King the letter written by Saum the
son of Neriman. And when Minuchihr had read it
he was grieved, and said-
"This letter, written by Saum thy father in his
sorrow, has awakened an old pain within me. But for
the sake of my faithful servant I will do unto thee that
which is thy desire. Yet I ask that thou abide with me
a little while that I may seek counsel about thee."
Then the cooks brought forth a table of gold, and Zal
was seated beside the Shah and all the nobles according
to their rank, and they ate flesh and drank wine
together. Then when the mantle of night had fallen
over the earth Zal sprang upon his steed and scoured
the land in the unrest of his spirit, for his heart was full
of thoughts and his mouth of words. But when morn-
ing had come he presented himself before the Shah in
audience. And his speech and mien found favour in the
eyes of the Shah, and he called unto him his Wise Men
and bade them question the stars of this matter. Three
ZAL AND RUDABEH.
61
days and three nights did the Mubids search the heavens
without ceasing, and on the fourth they came before the
Shah and spake. And they said unto him—
"Hail to thee, hero of the golden girdle, for we bring
unto thee glad tidings. The son of Saum and the
daughter of Mihrab shall be a glorious pair, and from
their union shall spring a son like to a war-elephant, and
he shall subdue all men by his sword and raise the glory
of Iran even unto the skies. And he shall uproot the
wicked from the earth so that there shall be no room for
them. Segsars and Mazinderan shall feel the weight of
his mace, and he shall bring much woe upon Turan, but
Iran shall be loaded with prosperity at his hands. And
he will give back sleep to the unhappy, and close the
doors of discord, and bar the paths of wrong-doing.
The kingdom will rejoice while he lives; Roum, Ind,
and Iran will grave his name upon their seals."
When the Shah had heard this he charged the
Mubids that they keep secret that which they had
revealed unto him. And he called for Zal that he might
question him and test his wisdom. And the Wise Men
and the Mubids were seated in a circle, and they put
these questions to the son of Saum.
And the first opened his mouth and said-
"Twelve trees, well grown and green,
Fair and lofty, have I seen;
Each has sprung with vigorous sprout,
Sending thirty branches out;
Wax no more, nor wane, they can
In the kingdom of Iran."
62
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
And Zal pondered a while and then answered and
said-
"Twelve moons in the year, and each I praise
As a new-made king on a new throne's blaze :
Each comes to an end in thirty days."
Then the second Mubid questioned him and said—
"Thou whose head is high in air,
Rede me now of coursers twain;
Both are noble, swift to speed;
Black as storms in the night one steed,
The other crystal, white and fair,
They race for ever and haste in vain,
Towards a goal they never gain."
And Zal thought again yet a while and answered—
"Two shining horses, one black, one white,
That run for ever in rapid flight;
The one is the day, the other the night,
That count the throbs of the heaven's height,
Like the hunted prey from the following chase
They flee, yet neither wins the race."
Then the third Mubid questioned him and said—
"Thirty knights before the King
Pass along. Regard the thing
Closely; one is gone. Again
Look-the thirty are in train.”
And Zal answered and spake-
"Thirty knights of whom the train
Is full, then fails, then fills again,
Know, each moon is reckoned thus,
So willed by God who governs us,
And thy word is true of the faint moon's wane,
Now failing in darkness, now shining plain."
ZAL AND RUDABEH.
63
Then the fourth Mubid questioned him and said—
"See a green garden full of springs;
A strong man with a sickle keen
Enters, and reaps both dry and green;
No word thine utmost anguish wrings."
And Zal bethought him and replied-
"Thy word was of a garden green,
A reaper with a sickle keen,
Who cuts alike the fresh and the dry,
Nor heedeth prayer nor any cry:
Time is the reaper, we the grass;
Pity nor fear his spirit has,
But old and young he reaps alike.
No rank can stay his sickle's strike,
No love, but he will leave it lorn,
For to this end all men are boin.
Birth opes to all the gate of Life,
Death shuts it down on love and strife,
And Fate, that counts the breath of man,
Measures to each a reckoned span."
Then the fifth Mubid questioned him and said-
"Look how two lofty cypresses
Spring up, like reeds, from stormy seas,
There builds a bird his dwelling-place;
Upon the one all night he stays,
But swift, with the dawn, across he flies;
The abandoned tree dries up and dies,
While that whereon he sets his feet
Breathes odours out, surpassing sweet.
The one is dead for ever and aye,
The other lives and blooms alway."
Then Zal yet again bethought him before he said-
"Hear of the sea-born cypresses,
Where builds a bird, and rests, and flees.
64
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
From the Ram to the Scales the earth o'erpowers,
Shadows obscure of the night that lowers,
But when the Scales' sign it must quit,
Darkness and gloom o'ermaster it ;
The sides of heaven thy fable shows
Whence grief to man or blessing flows,
The sun like a bird flies to and fro,
Weal with him bringing, but leaving woe."
Then the sixth Mubid questioned him, and it was the
last question that he asked, and he deemed it the hard-
est of all to answer. And all men hung upon his words
and listened to the answer of Zal. And the Mubid
said
"Builded on a rock I found
A town. Men left the gate and chose
A thicket on the level ground.
Soon their soaring mansions rose
Lifting roofs that reach the moon,
Some men slaves, some kings, became,
Of their earlier city soon
The memory died in all. Its name
None breathed. But hark! an earthquake; down,
Lost in the chasm lies the land-
Now long they for their rock-built town,
Enduring things they understand.
Seek in thy soul the truth of this;
This before kings proclaim. I wis,
If rightly thou the riddle rede,
Black earth to musk thou hast changed indeed."
And Zal pondered this riddle but a little while, and
then opened his mouth and said-
"The eternal, final world is shown
By image of a rock-built town;
ZAL AND RUDABEH.
65
The thicket is our passing life,
A place of pleasure and of pain,
A world of dreams and eager strife,
A time for labour, and loss, and gain ;
This counts thy heart-beats, at its will
Prolongs their pulse or makes it still.
But winds and earthquake rouse: a cry
Goes up of bitterness and woe,
Now we must leave our homes below
And climb the rocky fastness high.
Another reaps our fruit of pain,
That yet to another leaves his gain ;
So was it aye, must so remain.
Well for us if our name endure,
Though we shall pass, beloved and pure,
For all the evil man hath done,
Stalks, when he dies, in the sight of the sun;
When dust is strown on breast and head,
Then desolation reigns with dread.”
When Zal had spoken thus the Shah was glad, and
all the assembly were amazed, and lauded the son of
Saum. And the King bade a great banquet be pre-
pared, and they drank wine until the world was darkened,
and the heads of the drinkers were troubled. Then
when morn was come Zal prayed that the Shah would
dismiss him. But Minuchihr said-
"Not so, abide with me yet another day," and he
bade the drums be beaten to call together his heroes, for
he desired to test Zal also in the feats of strength. And
the Shah sat upon the roof of his house and looked
down upon the games, and he beheld Zal, the son of
Saum, do mighty deeds of prowess. With his arrow did
he shoot farther and straighter than the rest, and with
E
·66
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
his spear he pierced all shields, and in wrestling he
overcame the strongest who had never known defeat.
When the nobles beheld these doughty deeds they
shouted and clapped their hands, and Minuchihr loaded
Then he prepared a reply unto the
And he wrote-
•
Zal with gifts.
letter of Saum.
"O my Pehliva, hero of great renown, I have listened
to thy desires, and I have beheld the youth who is
worthy to be thy son. And he has found favour in my
sight, and I send him back to thee satisfied. May his
enemies be impotent to harm him.”
Then when the Shah had given him leave to go, Zal
set forth, and he bare his head high in the joy of his
heart. And when he came before his father and gave
to him the letter of the Shah, Saum was young again
for happiness. Then the drums sounded the signal to
depart, and the tents were prepared, and a messenger,
mounted on a fleet dromedary, was sent unto Mihrab to
tell him that Saum and Zal were setting forth for Cabul.
And when Mihrab heard the tidings his fears were stilled,
and he commanded that his army be clad in festal
array. And silken standards of bright colour decked
the city, and the sounds of trumpets, harps, and
cymbals filled the air. And Sindokht told the glad
tidings to Rudabeh, and they made ready the house
like unto a paradise. Carpets broidered with gold
and precious stones did they lay down upon its
floors, and set forth thrones of ivory and rich carving.
ZAL AND RUDABEH.
67
And the ground they watered with rose-water and
wine.
Then when the guests were come near unto Cabul,
Mihrab went forth to meet them, and he placed upon the
head of Zal a crown of diamonds, and they came into
the city in triumph. And all the people did homage
before them, and Sindokht met them at the doors of the
King's house, and poured out musk and precious stones
before them. Then Saum, when he had replied to their
homage, smiled, and turned to Sindokht and said—
"How much longer dost thou think to hide Rudabeh
from our eyes?"
And Sindokht said, "What wilt thou give me to see
the sun?"
Then Saum replied, "All that thou wilt, even unto
my slaves and my throne, will I give to thee."
Then Sindokht led him within the curtains, and when
Saum beheld Rudabeh he was struck dumb with wonder,
for her beauty exceeded dreams, and he knew not how
he could find words to praise her. Then he asked of
Mihrab that he would give unto him her hand, and they
concluded an alliance according to custom and the law.
And the lovers were seated upon a throne, and Mihrab
read out the list of the gifts, and it was so long the ear
did not suffice to hear them. Then they repaired unto
the banquet, and they feasted seven days without ceas-
ing. And when a month had passed Saum went back
to Seistan, and Zal and Rudabeh followed after him.
68
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
And speedily did he set forth again to battle, and left
the kingdom in the hands of his son, and Zal
administered it with wisdom and judgment. And
Rudabeh sat beside him on the throne, and he placed
a crown of gold upon her head.

RUSTEM.

OW ere the son of Zal was born, Rudabeh
was sore afflicted, and neither by day
or night could she find rest. Then Zal
in his trouble bethought him of the
Simurgh, his nurse, and how she had
given unto him a feather that he might use it in the
hour of his need. And he cast the feather into the
fire as she had commanded, and straightway a sound
of rushing wings filled the air, and the sky was dark-
ened, and the bird of God stood before Zal. And she
said unto him-
"O my son, wherefore art thou troubled, and why
are the eyes of this lion wet with tears?"
Then he told her of his sorrow, and she bade him be
of good cheer, "For verily thy nurse who shielded thee,
and reared thee when thy father cast thee out, hath come
yet again to succour thee."
And she told him how he should act, and when she
had done speaking she turned her once more towards
her nest. But Zal did as she had commanded, and
there was born to him a son comely of limb.
when Rudabeh beheld the babe, she smiled and said-
And
70
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
'Verily he shall be called Rustem (which, being inter-
preted, meaneth delivered), for I am delivered of my
pains."
And all the land was glad that a son was come unto
Zal the hero, and the sounds of feasting and joy were
heard throughout its breadth.
Then fleet messengers brought the sweet tidings unto
Saum. And they bore with them an image of Rustem
sewn of silk, whereon were traced the features of this
lion's whelp, and a club was put into its hands, and it
was mounted upon a dromedary. Now when Saum
beheld the image his heart leaped up within him. He
poured mountains of gold before the messengers, and
gave thanks unto Ormuzd that he had suffered his eyes
to look upon this child.
And when eight summers had rolled above their
heads, Saum learned that Rustem was mighty of
stature and fair of mien, and his heart yearned towards
him. He therefore made ready a mighty host and
passed unto Zaboulistan, that he might look upon his
son. And Rustem rode forth to meet his sire, mounted
upon an elephant of war, and when he beheld Saum he
fell upon his face and craved his blessing. And Saum
blessed Rustem, the son of Zal.
Then Rustem spake unto Saum and said, "O Pehliva,
I rejoice in that I am sprung from thee, for my desires
are not after the feast, neither do I covet sleep or rest.
My heart is fixed upon valour, a horse do I crave and a
RUSTEM.
71
saddle, a coat of mail and a helmet, and my delight is
in the arrow. Thine enemies will I vanquish, and may
my courage be like unto thine.”
And Saum, when he had heard these words, was
astonished, and blessed Rustem yet again. And his
eyes could not cease from gazing upon the face of the
boy, and he lingered in the land until a moon had run
her course.
Now it befell that when yet two springs had passed,
Rustem was awakened from his slumber by a mighty
roaring that shook the walls of the house, even unto the
foundation, and a cry went forth that the white elephant
of the King had broken its chain in fury, and that the
housemates were in danger. And Rustem, when he
learned it, sprang from his bed, and desired of the
guards that they should suffer him to pass into the
court that he might conquer the beast. But the guards
barred the way from him, saying-
"How can we answer for it before the King if thou
run into danger?"
But Rustem would not listen to their voice. He
forced a passage for himself with his mighty arms,
with his strong fists he broke down the barriers of the
door. And when he was without he beheld how that
all the warriors were sore afraid of the elephant, because
that he was mad with rage. And Rustem was ashamed
for them in his soul, and he ran towards the beast with
a loud cry. Then the elephant, when he saw him, raised
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
his trunk to strike him, but Rustem beat him upon the
head with his club, and smote him that he died. And
when he had done this deed, he returned unto his bed
and slept until the morning.
But the news of his
prowess spread throughout the house of the King and
far into the land, even unto the realms of Saum. And
Zal, and all men with him, rejoiced because a hero had
arisen in Iran.
Now, while these things were passing in the house of
Zal, in the land of Zaboulistan, Minuchihr made him
ready to pass from the world, for he had reached twice
sixty years. He called before him Nauder his son, and
gave him wise counsels, and exhorted him that he should
ever walk in the paths of wisdom. And he bade him
rest his throne upon the strength of Saum and Zal, and
the child that was sprung from their loins. Then when
he had spoken, Minuchihr closed his eyes and sighed,
and there remained of him only a memory in the world.
But Nauder forgot the counsels of his father. He
vexed the land and reigned in anger, and cruel deeds
were committed in his name, so that the people rose up
and cried against the King. And men of might came
unto Saum and laid before him their plaints and the
petitions of the people, and they prayed that he would
wrest the crown from the head of Nauder, and place it
upon his own. But Saum was sore grieved when he
had heard these words, and he spake, saying—
"Not so, for it beseemeth me not to put out my
RUSTEM.
73
hand after the crown, for Nauder is of the race of the
Kaianides, and unto them belongeth majesty and might.”
Then he girt his sword about his loins, and took with
him a host, and rode before the face of the Shah. And
when he was come unto him, Saum exhorted him with
prayers and tears that he would turn him from the
paths of evil. And Nauder listened unto the voice of
Saum the Pehliva, and joy was abroad once more.
But the tidings had spread, even into Turan, that
Minuchihr the just was departed, and that the hand of
Nauder was heavy upon the land. And Poshang, who
was of the race of Tur, heard the news thereof with
gladness, for he deemed that the time was ripe to
remember the vengeance that was due unto the blood
of his sire. Therefore he called about him his warriors,
and bade them go forth to war against Iran, saying the
time had come to avenge his father and draw unto him-
self the heritage. And while his son Afrasiyab made
ready the host to fulfil the desire of his father, there
spread the news that Saum the Pehliva had been
gathered unto the dust, and that Zal tarried in his
house to build him a tomb. And the news gave
courage unto Afrasiyab and his men, and they made
haste to gain the frontier.
But the grandson of Feridoun had learned of their
coming, and he prepared him to meet the foes of his
land. Then he sent forth an army that overshadowed
the earth in its progress. But the army of Afrasiyab
74
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
was great also, and it covered the ground like unto ants
and locusts. And both hosts pitched their tents in the
plains of Dehstan, and made them ready for the fight.
And the horses neighed aloud, and the pawing of their
hoofs shook the deep places of the earth, and the dust
of their trampling uprose even unto heaven. Then
when they had put their men into array, they fell upon
each other, and for two days did they rage in fierce
combat, neither did the victory lean to either side.
And the clamour and confusion were mighty, and earth
and sky seemed blended into one. And the carnage
was great, and blood flowed like water, and heads fell
from their trunks like unto autumn leaves that are
withered. But on the third day it came about that
the upper hand was given unto the men of Turan, and
Nauder the King, and the flower of his army with him,
fell into the hands of the foe.
Then Afrasiyab cut off the head of Nauder the Shah,
and sat himself down upon the throne of light. And he
proclaimed himself lord of Iran, and required of all men
that they should do him homage, and pour gifts before
his face. But the people would not listen unto his
voice, and they sent messengers into Seistan, and craved
counsel of the Pehliva in their distress. And Zal, when
he heard their tidings, cast aside the sorrow for Saum
his father, and girded his loins in hostility against the
son of Tur. And he bade the Iranians choose out Zew,
the son of Thamasp, of the blood of Feridoun, of wisdom
RUSTEM.
75
in speech, that he should rule over them on the throne
of the Kaianides. And the people did as Zal com-
manded.
Now the throne of Feridoun grew young again under
the sway of Zew. With power did he beat back the host
of Turan, a covenant of peace did he wring from their
nands. And it was written that the Jihun should divide
the lands, and that the power of Zal the Pehliva should
end where men take up their abode in tents. And Zew
ruled rightly in the sight of Ormuzd, and God gave
unto the land the key of abundance. Yet few were the
years that he commanded with equity, and Garshasp
his son reigned in his stead. But neither to him
was it given to reign long with glory, and bitter fruit
sprouted yet again from the tree of misfortune. For the
throne of the Kaianides was empty, and Afrasiyab, when
he learned thereof, followed the counsels of Poshang his
father, and hurried him unto the land of Iran, that he
might place himself upon the seat of power. And all
the men of Iran, when they learned thereof, were sore
afraid, and they turned them once again unto the son
of Saum. And they spake unto him hard words, and
heaped reproaches upon him that he had not averted
these dangers from their heads. And Zal in his heart
smiled at their ingratitude and lip-wisdom, but he also
sorrowed with them and with his land. And he
spake, saying-
"I have ever done for you what was fitting and right,
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
and all my life have I feared no enemy save only old
age.
But that enemy is now upon me, therefore I charge you
that ye
look unto Rustem to deliver you. Howbeit he
shall be backed by the counsels of his father."
Then he called before him his son, who was yet of
tender age, and he said unto him—
"O my son, thy lips still smell of milk, and thy
heart should go out to pleasure. But the days are
grave, and Iran looks unto thee in its danger. I must
send thee forth to cope with heroes."
And Rustem answered and said, "Thou knowest,
O my father, that my desires are rather after war
than pleasures. Give unto me, therefore, a steed of
strength and the mace of Saum thy father, and suffer
that I go out to meet the hosts of Ahriman."
Then Zal's heart laughed within him when he heard
these words of manhood. And he commanded that all
the flocks of horses, both from Zaboulistan and Cabul, be
brought before his son, that he might choose from their
midst his steed of battle. And they were passed in
order before Rustem, and he laid upon the backs of
each his hand of might to test them if they could bear
his weight of valour. And the horses shuddered as they
bent beneath his grasp, and sank upon their haunches
in weakness. And thus did he do with all in turn, until
he came unto the flocks of Cabul. Then he perceived
in their midst a mare mighty and
strong, and there
followed after her a colt like to its mother, with the
RUSTEM.
77
And in strength it
chest and shoulders of a lion.
seemed like an elephant, and in colour it was as rose
leaves that have been scattered upon a saffron ground.
Now Rustem, when he had tested the colt with his eyes,
made a running knot in his cord and threw it about the
beast. And he caught the colt in the snare, though the
mare defended it mightily. Then the keeper of the
flock came before Rustem and said-
"O youth puissant and tall, take not, I counsel thee,
the horse of another."
And Rustem answered him and asked, "To whom
then pertaineth this steed? I see no mark upon its
flanks."
And the keeper said, "We know not its master,
but rumours are rife anent it throughout the land,
and men name it the Rakush of Rustem. And
I warn thee, the mother will
•
to ride on it. Three years
for the saddle, but none would
thereon."
never permit thee
has it been ready
has
she suffer to mount
Then Rustem, when he heard these words, swung
himself upon the colt with a great bound. And the
mare, when she saw it, ran at him and would have
pulled him down, but when she had heard his voice she
suffered it. And the rose-coloured steed bore Rustem
along the plains like unto the wind. Then when he
had returned, the son of Zal spake and said to the
keeper-
78
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
"I pray thee, tell unto me what is the price of this
dragon?"
But the keeper replied, "If thou be Rustem, mount
him, and retrieve the sorrows of Iran. For his price
is the land of Iran, and seated upon him thou wilt.
save the world."
And Rustem rejoiced in Rakush (whose name, being in-
terpreted, meaneth the lightning), and Zal rejoiced with
him, and they made them ready to stand against Afrasiyab.
Now it was in the time of roses, and the meadows
smiled with verdure, when Zal led forth his hosts.
against the offspring of Tur. And the standard of Kawah
streamed upon the breeze, and Mihrab marched on
the left, and Gustahem marched on the right, and Zal
went in the midst of the men, but Rustem went at the
head of all. And there followed after him a number
like to the sands of the sea, and the sounds of cymbals
and bells made a noise throughout the land like unto
the day of judgment, when the earth shall cry unto the
dead, "Arise." And they marched in order even unto
the shores of the river Rai, and the two armies were but
some farsangs apart.
Albeit, when Afrasiyab heard that Rustem and Zal
were come out against him, he was in nowise dismayed,
for he said, "The son is but a boy, and the father is old;
it will not, therefore, be hard for me to keep my power
in Iran.” And he made ready his warriors with gladness
of heart.
RUSTEM.
79
But Zal, when he had drawn up his army in battle
array, spake unto them, saying-
“O men valiant in fight, we are great in number,
but there is wanting to us a chief, for we are without
the counsels of a Shah, and verily no labour succeedeth
when the head is lacking. But rejoice, and be not
downcast in your hearts, for a Mubid has revealed unto
me that there yet liveth one of the race of Feridoun to
whom pertaineth the throne, and that he is a youth wise
and brave."
And when he had thus spoken, he turned him to
Rustem and said-
"I charge thee, O my son, depart in haste for the
Mount Alberz, neither tarry by the way. And wend
thee unto Kai Kobad, and say unto him that his army
awaiteth him, and that the throne of the Kaianides is
empty."
And Rustem, when he had heard his father's com-
mand, touched with his eyelashes the ground before his
feet, and straightway departed. In his hand he bore a
mace of might, and under him was Rakush the swift of
foot. And he rode till he came within sight of the
Mount Alberz, whereon had stood the cradle of his
father. Then he beheld at its foot a house beauteous
like unto that of a king. And around it was spread a
garden whence came the sounds of running waters, and
trees of tall stature uprose therein, and under their
shade, by a gurgling rill, there stood a throne, and a
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
youth, fair like to the moon, was seated thereon. And
round about him leaned knights girt with red sashes of
power, and you would have said it was a paradise for
perfume and beauty.
Now when those within the garden beheld the son
of Zal ride by, they came out unto him and said—
O Pehliva, it behoveth us not to let thee go farther
before thou hast permitted us to greet thee as our guest.
We pray thee, therefore, descend from off thy horse and
drink the cup of friendship in our house."
But Rustem said, "Not so, I thank you, but suffer
that I may pass unto the mountain with an errand that
brooketh no delay. For the borders of Iran are en-
circled by the enemy, and the throne is empty of a
king. Wherefore I may not stay to taste of wine."
Then they answered him, "If thou goest unto the
mount, tell us, we pray thee, thy mission, for unto us is
it given to guard its sides."
And Rustem replied, "I seek there a king of the seed.
of Feridoun, who cleansed the world of the abomina-
tions of Zohak, a youth who reareth high his head. I
pray ye, therefore, if ye know aught of Kai Kobad, that
ye give me tidings where I may find him.”
Then the youth that sat upon the throne opened his
mouth and said, “Kai Kobad is known unto me, and
if thou wilt enter this garden and rejoice my soul with
thy presence, I will give thee tidings concerning him.”
When Rustem heard these words he sprang from off
RUSTEM.
81
his horse and came within the gates. And the youth
took his hand and led him unto the steps of the throne.
Then he mounted it yet again, and when he had filled.
a cup with wine, he pledged the guest within his gates.
Then he gave a cup unto Rustem, and questioned him
wherefore he sought for Kai Kobad, and at whose desire
he had come forth to find him. And Rustem told him
of the Mubids, and how that his father had sent him
with all speed to pray the young King that he would
be their Shah, and lead the host against the enemies
of Iran. Then the youth, when he had listened to an
end, smiled and said-
"O Pehliva, behold me, for verily I am Kai Kobad of
the race of Feridoun !"
And Rustem, when he had heard these words, fell on
the ground before his feet and saluted him Shah. Then
the King raised him, and commanded that the slaves
should give him yet another cup of wine, and he bore it
to his lips in honour of Rustem, the son of Zal, the son
of Saum, the son of Neriman. And they gave a cup
also unto Rustem, and he cried-
"May the Shah live for ever!"
Then instruments of music rent the air, and joy
spread over all the assembly. But when silence had
fallen yet again, Kai Kobad opened his mouth and
said-
66
Hearken, O my knights, unto the dream that I had
dreamed, and ye will know wherefore I called upon your
F
82
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
this day to stand in majesty about my throne. For in
my sleep I beheld two falcons white of wing, and they
came out unto me from Iran, and in their beaks they
bare a sunny crown. And the crown they placed upon
my head. And behold now hath Rustem come out unto
me like to a white bird, and his father, the nursling of a
bird, hath sent him, and they have given unto me the
crown of Iran.”
And Rustem, when he had heard this dream, said,
Surely thy vision was given unto thee of God! But
now, I pray thee, up and tarry no longer, for the land
of Iran groaneth sore and awaiteth thee with much
travail."
So Kai Kobad listened to the desires of Rustem, and
swung him upon his steed of war; and they rode day
and night, until they came down from the hills unto the
green plains that are watered by murmuring streams.
And Rustem brought the King safely through the out-
posts of the enemy; and when the night was fallen, he
led him within the tents of Zal, and none knew that he
was come save only the Mubids. For seven days did they
hold counsel together, and on the eighth the message of
the stars was received with joy. And Zal made ready a
throne of ivory and a banquet, and the crown of Iran
was placed upon the head of the young Shah. Then
the nobles came and did homage before him, and they
revelled in wine till the night was far spent. And they
prayed him that he would make him ready to lead them
RUSTEM.
83
against the Turks.
And Kai Kobad mustered the
army and did as they desired.
And soon the battle raged hot and strong many
days, and deeds of valour were done on either side; but
the men of Turan could not stand against the men of
Iran, neither could the strength of Rustem be broken.
For he put forth the power of a lion, and his shadow
extended for miles. And from that day men named
him Tehemten (which, being interpreted, meaneth the
strong limbed), for he did deeds of prowess in the sight
of men.
And Afrasiyab was discomfited, and fled
before him, and his army followed after, and their
hearts were bruised and full of care.
But the Iranians, when they beheld that their foes
had vanished before them, turned them unto Kai Kobad
and did homage before his throne. And Kai Kobad
celebrated the victory with much pomp, as is the
manner of kings; and he placed Rustem upon his right
hand and Zal upon his left, and they feasted and made
them merry with wine.
In the mean time Afrasiyab returned him unto
Poshang his father, who was of the race of Tur. And
he came before him right sorrowful and spake, say-
ing—
"O King, whose name is glorious, thou didst evil to
provoke this war. The land which Feridoun the great
did give in ancient time unto Tur the valiant, it has
been delivered unto thee, and the partition was just.
84
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
,
Why, therefore, seekest thou to enlarge thy border?
Verily I say, if thou haste not to make peace with Iran,
Kai Kobad will send out against us an army from the
four quarters of the earth, and they will subdue us, and
by our own act we shall make the land too narrow
for us.
For the world is not delivered of the race of
Irij, and the noxious poison hath not been converted into
honey. For when one dieth another taketh his place,
and never do they leave the world without a master.
And there is arisen of the race of Saum a warrior
called Rustem, and none can withstand him. He hath
broken the power of thine host, and the world hath not
seen his like for stoutness; and withal he is but little
more than a weanling. Ponder therefore, O King, how
it shall be when he may have come to years of vigour.
Surely I am a man who desireth to possess the world, the
stay of thine army, and thy refuge in danger, but before
this boy my power fadeth like unto the mists that rise
above the hills."
When the King of Turan had listened to these words,
the tears of bitterness fell from his eyes. Then he called
before him a scribe, and he bade him write a letter unto
Kai Kobad, the Shah. And the scribe adorned it with
many colours and fair designs. And the scribe wrote-
"In the name of Ormuzd, the ruler of the sun and
moon, greeting and salutation unto Kai Kobad the
gracious from the meanest of his servants. Listen
unto me, O valiant Shah, and ponder the words that
RUSTEM.
85
I shall write. May grace fall upon the soul of Feridoun,
who wove the woof of our race! Why should we any
longer hold the world in confusion? That which he
fixed, surely it was right, for he parted the world with.
equity, and we do wrong before him when we depart
from the grooves that he hath shaped. I pray thee,
therefore, let us no longer speak of Tur and his evil
acts unto Irij, for if Irij was. the cause of our hates,
surely by Minuchihr hath he been avenged. Let us
return, then, within the bounds that Feridoun hath blest,
and let us part the world anew, as it was parted for Tur,
and Selim, and Irij. For wherefore should we seek
the land of another, since in the end each will receive in
heritage a spot no larger than his body? If then Kai
Kobad will listen unto my prayer, let the Jihun be the
boundary between us, and none of my people shall
behold its waters, nay, not even in a dream, neither
shall any Iranian cross its floods, save only in amity."
And the King put his seal upon the letter and sent it
unto Kai Kobad, and the messenger bare with him rich
gifts of jewels and steeds of Araby. And when Kai
Kobad had read the letter he smiled in his spirit and
said-
"Verily not my people sought out this war but
Afrasiyab, who deemed that he could wrest unto himself
the crown of Iran, and could subdue the masterless land
unto his will. And he hath but followed in the footsteps
of Tur his father, for even as he robbed the throne of
85
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Irij, so did Afrasiyab take from it Nauder the Shah.
And I say to you that I need not make peace with you
because of any fear, but I will do it because war is not
pleasing unto me. I will give unto you, therefore, the
further side of the river, and it shall be a boundary
between us, and I pray that Afrasiyab may find rest
within his borders."
And Kai Kobad did according to his word. He drew
up a fresh covenant between them, and planted a new
tree in the garden of power. And the messenger took
the writing unto Poshang, King of Turan, and Kai
Kobad proclaimed that there was peace throughout the
land.
Now for the space of an hundred years did Kai
Kobad rule over Iran, and he administered his realm
with clemency, and the earth was quiet before him, and
he gat his people great honour, and I ask of you what
king can be likened unto him? But when this time had
passed, his strength waned, and he knew that a green.
leaf was about to fade. So he called before him Kai
Kaous his son, and gave unto him counsels many and
wise. And when he had done speaking he bade them
make ready his grave, and he exchanged the palace
for the tomb. And thus endeth the history of Kai
Kobad the glorious. It behoveth us now to speak of
his son.
THE MARCH INTO MAZINDERAN.

AI Kaous seated him on the crystal throne,
and the world was obedient to his will.
But Ahriman was angry that his power
was so long broken in Iran, and he
sware unto himself that happiness should no longer smile
upon the land. And he imagined guile in his black heart.
Now it came about one day that the Shah sat in his
trellised bower in the garden of roses, drinking wine and
making merry with his Court. Then Ahriman, when he
beheld that they were thus forgetful of care, saw that
the time served him. So he sent forth a Deev clad as
a singer, and bade him ask for audience before the Shah.
And the Deev did as he was bidden. And he came be-
fore the servants of the King, and begged for entrance
into the arbour of flowers.
"For verily," he said, "I am a singer of sweet songs,
and I come from Mazinderan, and desire to pour my
homage at the throne of my lord."
Now when Kai Kaous learned that a singer waited
without, he commanded that he should be brought in.
Then he gave him wine and permitted him to open his
88
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
mouth before him. Now the Deev, when he had done
homage before the Shah, warbled unto his lyre words of
deep cunning. And he sang how that no land was like
unto his own for beauty and riches, and he inflamed the
desires of the Shah after Mazinderan. And Ahriman
fanned the flame within the mind of the King, and when
the Deev had ended, Kai Kaous had become uplifted in
his heart, like unto Jemshid. So he turned him unto
his warriors and said-
"O my friends, mighty and brave, we have abandoned
ourselves unto feasting, we have revelled in the arms
of peace.
But it behoveth not men to live long in
this wise, lest they grow idle and weak. And above all
it behoveth not me that am a Shah, for the Shah
is called to be a hero among men, and the world should
be his footstool. Now verily the power and splendour
of Jemshid was lower than mine, and my wealth sur-
passeth that of Zohak and Kai Kobad. It beseemeth
me therefore to be greater also than they in prowess,
and to be master of Mazinderan, which ever resisted
their might. I bid you therefore make ready for com-
bat, and I will lead you into the land whereof this
singer has sung so sweetly."
Now the nobles, when they had heard these words,
grew pale with fear, for there was not one among them
who listed to combat with Deevs. But none durst
open their lips in answer, yet their hearts were full of
fear and their mouths of sighs. But at last, when
THE MARCH INTO MAZINDERAN.
89
they could keep silence no longer, some spake and
said-
"Lord, we are thy servants, and that which thou
biddest surely we must do."
But among themselves they took counsel how they
should act if the Shah held firm by his desire. And
they recalled how not even Jemshid in his pride had
thought to conquer the Deevs of Mazinderan, before
whom the sword hath no power and wisdom no avail,
neither had Feridoun, learned in magic, or Minuchihr
the mighty, ventured on this emprise. Then they be-
thought them of Zal the son of Saum, and they sent.
forth a wind-footed dromedary and a messenger. And
they said unto Zal-
"Haste, we pray thee, neither tarry to cleanse thine
head though it be covered with dust; for Ahriman hath
strown evil seed in the heart of Kai Kaous, and it
ripeneth to fruit already, and already it hath borne
fruit, and Iran is threatened with danger. But we look
to thee that thou speak words of good counsel unto the
Shah, and avert these sorrows from our heads."
Now Zal was sore distressed when he had learned
that a leaf on the tree of the Kaianides was thus faded.
And he said-
"Kai Kaous is void of knowledge, and the sun must
revolve yet oft above his head before he learneth the
wisdom of the great. For unto true wisdom alone is it
given to know when to strike and when to tarry. But he
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
is like unto a child who deemeth the world will tremble
if it but upraiseth its sword. And but for my duty
unto God and unto Iran, I would abandon him to his
folly."
Then Zal revolved in his mind this trouble even until
the sun had set. But when the glory of the world had
arisen yet again, he girt his sash about his loins, and
took in his hand the mace of might, and set forth unto
the throne of the Shah. And he craved for audience,
and prostrated himself before the King. And when Kai
Kaous had permitted it, Zal opened his mouth and
spake words of wisdom. And he said-
"O King powerful and great, word hath come unto
me, even unto Seistan, of thy device. But it seemeth
unto me that mine ears have not heard aright. For
Mazinderan is the abode of Deevs, and no man can
overcome their skill.
Give not, therefore, unto the wind
thy men and thy treasures. Turn, I pray thee, from
this scheme, neither plant in the garden of Iran the tree
of folly, whose leaves are curses and whose fruits are
evil, for thus did not the kings before thee.”
Then Kai Kaous, when he had listened, said, "I
despise not thy counsel, nor do I bid thee hold thy
peace, for thou art a pillar unto Iran. But neither shall
thy words divert me from my desire, and Mazinderan
shall pay tribute to my hands. For thou considerest
not how that my heart is bolder and my might more
great than that of my fathers before me. I go, there-
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91
fore, and the kingdom will I leave between thy hands
and those of Rustem thy son."
When Zal heard these words, and beheld that Kai
Kaous was firm in his purpose, he ceased from oppos-
ing. Then he bowed him unto the dust, and spake,
saying-
"O Shah, it is thine to command, and whether it be
just or unjust, thy servants serve thee even unto death.
I have spoken the words that weighed upon my heart.
Three things it is not given to do, even unto a king:
to elude death, to bind up the eye of destiny, to live
without nurture. Mayst thou never repent thee of
thy resolve, mayst thou never regret my counsels in
the hour of danger, may the might of the Shah shine
for ever!"
And when he had ended, Zal went out of the presence
of the King, and he was right sorrowful, and the nobles
mourned with him when they learned how nought had
been accomplished.
Then, ere the day had succeeded unto the night, Kai
Kaous set forth with his horsemen unto Mazinderan.
Now when they were come within its borders, Kai
Kaous commanded Gew that he should choose forth a
strong band from out their midst, and go before the city
with mighty clubs. And he bade him destroy the
dwellers of the town, neither should they spare the
women nor the young, because that they too were the
children of Deevs. And Gew did as the Shah com-
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
manded. Then clubs rained down upon the people like
to hail, and the city that resembled a garden was
changed into a desert, and all the inmates thereof
perished at the hands of the enemy, neither did they
find any mercy in their eyes. But when the men of
Iran had ceased from killing, they sent news thereof
unto the Shah, and told him of the riches that were
hidden within the palaces.
And Kai Kaous said, "Blessed be he who sang to me
of the glories of this realm."
And he marched after Gew with the rest of his host,
and seven days did they never cease from plundering,
neither could they be sated with the gold and jewels
that they found. But on the eighth the tidings of their
deeds pierced unto the King of Mazinderan, and his
heart was heavy with care. He therefore sent a mes-
senger unto the mountains where dwelt the White Deev,
who was powerful and strong, and he entreated him that
he would come unto his succour, or verily the land would
perish under the feet of Iran.
The White Deev, when he had heard the message,
uprose like to a mountain in his strength, and he said-
"Let not the King of Mazinderan be troubled, for
surely the hosts of Iran shall vanish at my approach.
Then, when the night was fallen, he spread a dark
cloud, heavy and thick, over the land, and no light could
pierce it, neither could fires be seen across its midst,
and you would have said the world was steeped in pitch.
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And the army of Iran was wrapt in a tent of blackness.
Then the Deev caused it to rain stones and javelins, and
the Iranians could not behold their source, neither could
they defend themselves or stand against the arts of
magic. And they wandered astray in their distress, and
no man could find his fellow, and their hearts were
angered against the Shah for this emprise. But when
the morning was come, and glory was arisen upon the
world, they could not see it, for the light of their eyes
had gone out. And Kai Kaous too was blinded, and he
wept sore, and the whole army wept with him in their
anguish. And the Shah cried in his distress-
“O Zal, O my Pehliva wise and great, wherefore did
I shut mine ear unto thy voice!"
And the army echoed his words in their hearts, but
their lips were silent for boundless sorrow.
Then the White Deev spake unto Kai Kaous with a
voice of thunder, and he said-
"O King, thou hast been struck like to a rotten
trunk, on thine own head alone resteth this destruction,
for thou hast attained unto Mazinderan, and entered the
land after which thy heart desired."
And he bade his legion guard the Shah and all his
army, and he withheld from them wine and good cheer,
and gave unto them but enough for sustenance, for he
desired not that they should die, but gloried in their
wretchedness. Then when he had so done he sent
tidings thereof unto the King of Mazinderan. And he
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
bade the King take back the booty and rejoice in the
defeat of Iran. And he counselled him that he suffer
not Kai Kaous to perish, that he might learn to know
good fortune from ill. And the White Deev bade the
King sing praises unto Ahriman the mighty, who had
sent him unto his aid. And having spoken thus he
returned him unto his home in the mountains, but the
King of Mazinderan rejoiced in his spoils.
Now Kai Kaous remained in the land after which he
had yearned, and his heart was heavy with bitterness.
And the eyes of his soul were opened, and he cried con-
tinually, "This fault is mine;" and he cast about in his
spirit how he might release his host from the hands of
the Deevs. But the Deevs guarded him straitly, and he
could send no messenger into Iran. Howbeit it came
about that a messenger escaped their borders, and
bore unto Zal the writing of Kai Kaous the afflicted.
And Kai Kaous bowed himself in his spirit unto the
dust before Zal, and he wrote to him all that was come
about, and how that he and his host were blind and
captive, and he poured forth his repentance, and he
said-
"I have sought what the foolish seek, and found what
they find. And if thou wilt not gird thy loins to succour
me, I perish indeed.”
When Zal heard this message he gnawed his hands
in vexation. Then he called before him Rustem, and
said-
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95
"The hour is come to saddle Rakush and to avenge
the world with thy sword. As for me, I number two
hundred years, and have no longer the strength to fight
with Deevs. But thou art young and mighty. Cast
about thee, therefore, thy leopard-skin and deliver Iran
from bondage."
And Rustem said, "My sword is ready, and I will go
hence as thou dost bid. Yet of old, O my father, the
mighty did not go forth of their own will to fight the
powers of hell, neither doth one who is not weary of this
world go into the mouth of a hungry lion. But if God
be with me I shall overcome the Deevs and gird our
army anew with the sashes of might. And I pray that
His blessing rest upon me."
Then Zal, when he heard these noble words, blessed
his son, and prayed that Ormuzd too would give him.
his blessing. And he bestowed on him wise counsel, and
told him how he could come unto the land of Mazinderan.
And he said—
"Two roads lead unto this kingdom, and both are
hard and fraught with danger. The one taken of
Kai Kaous is the safest, but it is long, and it behoveth
that vengeance be fleet. Choose therefore, I charge
thee, the shorter road, though it be beset with baleful
things, and may Ormuzd return thee safe unto mine
arms."
When Rustem had drunk in the counsels of his father
he seated him on Rakush the fleet of foot. But when
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he would have departed, his mother came out before
him, and she made great wailing that Rustem should go
before the evil Deevs. And she would have hindered
him, but Rustem suffered her not. He comforted her
with his voice, and bade her be of good cheer. He
showed unto her how that he had not of his own
choice chosen this adventure. And he bade her rest
her hopes in God. And when he had done speaking
she let him depart, but the heart of Rudabeh yearned
after her son, and her eyes were red with weeping many
days.
In the meanwhile the young hero of the world sped
forth to do his duty unto the Shah. And Rakush
caused the ground to vanish under his feet, and in twelve
hours was a two days' journey accomplished. Then
when eve was fallen, Rustem ensnared a wild ass, and
made a fire and roasted it for his meal. And when he
had done he released Rakush from the bonds of his
saddle and prepared for himself a couch among the reeds,
neither was he afraid of wild beasts or of Deevs.
But in the reeds was hidden the lair of a fierce lion,
and the lion when he returned unto his haunt beheld
the tall man and the horse that watched beside him.
And he rejoiced at the fat meal that he held was in
store. And he thought within his mind, "I will first
subdue the steed, then the rider will be an easy prey.”
And he fell upon Rakush. But Rakush defended him-
self mightily. With his hoofs did he trample upon the
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97
forehead of the lion, with his sharp teeth did he tear his
skin, and he trampled upon him till he died. But the
noise of the struggle had wakened Rustem, and when he
beheld the body of the lion, and Rakush standing beside.
it, he knew what had been done. Then he opened his
mouth in reproof, and said—
"O thoughtless steed, who bade thee combat lions?
Wherefore didst thou not wake me? for if thou hadst
been overcome, who, I pray thee, could have borne my
weight into Mazinderan, whither I must hie me to
deliver the Shah?"
When he had thus spoken he turned again to sleep,
but Rakush was sorrowful and downcast in his spirit.
Now when morn was come they set forth once again
upon their travels. And all day long they passed through
a desert, and the pitiless sun burned down upon their
heads, and the sand was living fire, and the steed and rider
were like to perish of thirst, and nowhere could Rustem
find the traces of water. So he made him ready to die,
and commended his soul unto God, and prayed Him to
remember Kai Kaous, His servant, nor abandon him in
his distress. Then he laid him down to await the end.
But lo! when he thought it was come, there passed
before him a ram, well nourished and fat. And Rustem
said unto himself--
"Surely the watering-place of this beast cannot be
distant."
Then he roused him and led Rakush and followed in
G
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the footsteps of the ram, and behold, it led him unto
a spring of water, cool and clear. And Rustem drank
thereof with greed, and he gave unto Rakush, and
bathed him in the waters, and when they were both
refreshed he sought for the traces of the ram. And they
were nowhere to be found. Then Rustem knew that
Ormuzd had wrought a wonder for his sake, and he fell
upon the ground and lifted up his soul in thankfulness.
Then when he had caught and eaten a wild ass, he laid
him down to slumber. And he spake and said unto
Rakush-
"I charge thee, O my steed, that thou seek no strife
during my slumbers. If an enemy cometh before thee,
come unto me and neigh beside mine ear, and verily I
will waken and come to thine aid."
And Rakush listened, and when he saw that Rustem
slumbered, he gambolled and grazed beside him. But
when some watches of the night were spent, there came
forth an angry dragon whose home was in this spot, a
dragon fierce and fiery, whom even the Deevs dared
not encounter. And when he beheld Rakush and
Rustem he was astonished that a man should slumber
softly beside his lair. And he came towards them with
his breath of poison. Then Rakush, when he saw it,
stamped his hoofs upon the ground and beat the air with
his tail, so that the noise thereof resounded wide, and
Rustem was awakened with the din. And he was angry
with Rakush that he had wakened him, for the dragon
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99
had vanished, and he could see no cause for fear. And
he said-
"It is thy fault, O unkind steed, that slumber is
fled from me."
Then he turned him to sleep once again. But when
the dragon saw it he came forth once more, and once
more did Rakush wake Rustem, and once more did the
dragon vanish ere the eyes of Rustem were opened.
And when Rakush had thus awakened the hero yet three
times, Rustem was beside him with anger, and wisdom
departed from its dwelling. He piled reproaches upon
the horse, and hurled bitter words upon his head, and
he sware that if he acted thus again he would slay him
with his arm of power, and would wander on foot unto
Mazinderan. And he said-
"I bade thee call upon me if dangers menaced, but
thou sufferest me not to slumber when all is well."
Then Rustem drew his leopard-skin about him and
laid him down again to sleep. But Rakush was pained
in his spirit, and pawed the ground in his vexation.
Then the dragon came forth yet again, and was about to
fall upon Rakush, and the steed was sore distressed how
he should act. But he took courage and came beside
Rustem once more, and stamped upon the ground and
neighed and woke him. And Rustem sprang up in fury,
but this time it was given unto him to behold the dragon,
and he knew that Rakush had done that which was
right. And he drew his armour about him and un-
Uorm
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sheathed his sword, and came forth to meet the fiery
beast. Then the dragon said-
"What is thy name, and who art thou that dost
venture against me? for verily the woman that bore
thee shall weep."
And the Pehliva answered, "I am Rustem, of the seed
of Zal, and in myself I am an host, and none can with-
stand my might."
But the dragon laughed at his words, and held them to
be vain boasting. Then he fell upon Rustem, the son of
Zal, and he wound himself about his body, and would
have crushed him with his writhings, and you would have
said that the end of this hero was come. But Rakush,
when he beheld the straits of his master, sprang upon
the dragon from the rear, and he tore him as he had
torn the lion, and Rustem pierced the beast with his
sword, and between them the world was delivered of
this scourge. Then Rustem was glad, and he praised
Rakush and washed him at the fountain, and gave
thanks to God who had given unto him the victory.
And when he had so done he sprang into his saddle, and
rode until they were come unto the land of the magicians.
Now when evening was fallen over the land they
came unto a green and shady vale, and a brook ran
And
through it, and cool woods clothed its sides.
beside a spring there was spread a table, and wine
and all manner of good cheer stood thereon. And
Rustem, when he saw it, loosened his saddle and bade
Maou
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JOI
Rakush graze and drink, and he seated him beside the
table and enjoyed its fare. And his spirit laughed
with pleasure that he had found a table ready dressed
within the desert, for he knew not that it was the table
of the magicians, who were fled on his approach. And
he ate and drank, and when he had stilled his hunger he
took up a lyre that lay beside him, and he lilted to it in
his ease of heart. And he sang—
"Rustem is the scourge of the base,
Not for him were pleasures meant;
Rare are his feasts and holidays,
His garden is the desert place,
The battlefield his tournament.
"There the sword of Rustem cleaves
Not the armour of jousting knights,
But the skulls of dragons and Deevs;
Nor shall Rustem, as he believes,
Ever be quit of the foes he fights.
Cups of wine and wreaths of rose,
Gardens where cool arbours stand,
Fortune gave such gifts as those
Not to Rustem, but hurtling foes,
Strife, and a warrior's heart and hand."
Now the song of Rustem was come to the ears of one
of the witches, and she changed herself into a damsel
with a face of spring. And she came before Rustem
and asked him his name, and toyed with him, and he
was pleased with her company. And he poured out
wine and handed it unto her, and bade her drink unto
Ormuzd. But the magician, when she heard the name
of God, fell into a tremble and her visage changed, and
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Rustem beheld her in all her vileness. Then his quick
spirit knew her for what she was, and he made a noose
and caught her in his snare, and severed her in twain.
And all the magicians, when they saw it, were afraid,
and none durst come forth to meet the hero. But
Rustem straightway departed from this spot.
And Rustem rode till that he was come unto a land
where the sun never shineth, neither stars lighten the
blackness, and he could not see his path. So he suffered
Rakush to lead him at his will. And they stumbled
along amid the blackness, but at the end they came out
again into the light. And Rustem beheld a land that
was swathed in verdure, and fields wherein the crops
were sprouting. Then he loosened Rakush and bade
him graze, and laid himself down to slumber awhile.
Now Rakush went forth to graze in a field that had
been sown, and the guardian thereof, when he saw it,
was angry, and ran unto the spot where Rustem was
couched, and beat the soles of his feet with a stick and
woke him. And he flung reproaches and evil words
upon him for that his horse had broken into the pastures.
Then Rustem was angry, and fell upon the man, and
took him by the ears and tore them from his body.
And the man fled, howling in his agony, and came
before Aulad, the ruler of the land, and laid his plaints
before him. And Aulad also was angry, and went
forth to seek Rustem, and demand his name and mis-
sion, and wherefore he had thus disturbed their peace.
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103
And Aulad sware that he would destroy him for this
deed.
Then Rustem answered, "I am the thunder-cloud that
sendeth forth lightnings, and none can stand before my
strength. But if thou shouldest hear my name, the blood
would stand still within thy veins. Thou art come
against me with an host, see therefore how I shall scatter
them like the wind."
And when he had thus spoken, Rustem fell upon the
warriors of Aulad, and he beat them down before him,
and their heads fell under the blows of his sword of
death. And the army was routed at the hands of one
man. Now Aulad, when he saw it, wept and fled; but
Rustem pursued him, and threw his noose about him,
and caught him in the snare. And the world became
dark unto Aulad. Then Rustem bound him, and threw
him on the ground, and said-
(C
If thou speak unto me that which is true, verily I
will release thee; and when I shall have overcome the
Deevs, I will give the land of Mazinderan into thy hands.
Tell me, therefore, where dwelleth the White Deev, and
where may I find the Shah and his men, and how can I
deliver them from bondage?"
Then Aulad answered and told Rustem how it was
an hundred farsangs unto the spot where Kai Kaous.
groaned in his bondage, and how it was yet another
hundred unto the mountain pass where dwelt the Deev.
And he told him how the passes were guarded by lions
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
and magicians and mighty men, and how none had ever
pierced thereunto. And he counselled him to desist from
this quest.
But Rustem smiled, and said, "Be thou my guide,
and thou wilt behold an elephant overcome the might
of evil."
And when he had thus spoken he sprang upon
Rakush, and Aulad in his bonds ran after him, and
they sped like the wind, neither did they halt by night
or day till they were come unto the spot where Kai
Kaous had been smitten by the Deevs. And when they
were come there they could behold the watch-fires of
Mazinderan. Then Rustem laid him down to sleep, and
he tied Aulad unto a tree that he should not escape him.
But when the sun was risen he laid the mace of Saum
before his saddle, and rode with gladness towards the
city of the Deevs.
Now when Rustem was come nigh unto the tents of
Arzang, that led the army of Mazinderan, he uttered a
cry that rent the mountains. And the cry brought
forth Arzang from out his tent, and when he perceived
Rustem he ran at him, and would have thrown him
down. But Rustem sprang upon Arzang, and he seemed
an insect in his grasp. And he overcame him, and
parted his head from his body, and hung it upon his
saddlebow in triumph. And fear came upon the army
of Mazinderan when they saw it, and they fled in faint-
ness of spirit, and so great was the confusion that none
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105
beheld whither he bent his steps. And fathers fell
upon sons, and brothers upon brothers, and dismay was
spread throughout the land.
Then Rustem loosened the bonds of Aulad, and bade
him lead him into the city where Kai Kaous pined in
his bondage. And Aulad led him. Now when they
neared the city, Rakush neighed so loud that the sound
pierced even unto the spot where Kai Kaous was
hidden. And the Shah, when he heard it, rejoiced, for
he knew that succour was come. And he told it unto his
comrades. But they refused to listen unto these words,
and deemed that grief had distraught his wits. In vain
therefore did Kai Kaous insist unto them that his ears
had heard the voice of Rakush. But not long did he
combat their unbelief, for presently there came before
him Tehemten, the stout of limb, and when the nobles
heard his voice and his step they repented them of their
doubts. And Kai Kaous embraced Rustem and blessed
him, and questioned him of his journey and of Zal. Then
he said-
"O my Pehliva, we may no longer waste the moments
with sweet words. I must send thee forth yet again to
battle. For when the White Deev shall learn that
Arzang is defeated, he will come forth from out his
mountain fastness, and bring with him the whole
multitude of evil ones, and even thy might will not
stand before them. Go therefore unto the Seven
Mountains, and conquer the White Deev ere the tidings
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reach him of thy coming. Unto thee alone can Iran
look for her succour, for I cannot aid thee, neither can
my warriors assist thee with their arms, for our eyes are
filled with darkness, and their light is gone out. Yet
I grieve to send thee into this emprise alone, for I have
heard it spoken that the dwelling of the Deevs is a spot
of fear and terror, but alas! my grief is of no avail.
And I conjure thee, slay the Deev, and bring unto me
the blood of his heart, for a Mubid hath revealed unto
me that only by this blood can our sight be restored.
And go forth now, my son, and may Ormuzd be
gracious unto thee, and may the tree of gladness sprout
again for Iran!"
Then Rustem did as Kai Kaous commanded, and
he rode forth, and Aulad went beside him to lead him.
in the way.
And when they had passed the Seven
Mountains and were come unto the gates of hell, Rustem
spake unto Aulad, and said—
"Thou hast ever led me aright, and all that thou hast
spoken I have surely found it true. Tell me, therefore,
now how I shall vanquish the Deevs."
And Aulad said, "Tarry, I counsel thee, till that the
sun be high in the heavens. For when it beateth
fierce upon the earth the Deevs are wont to lay them
down to slumber, and when they are drunk with sleep
they shall fall an easy prey into thine hands."
Then Rustem did as Aulad bade him, and he halted
by the roadside, and he bound Aulad from head to foot
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107
in his snare, and he seated himself upon the ends. But
when the sun was high he drew forth his sword from
out its sheath, and shouted loud his name, and flung it
among the Deevs like to a thunderbolt. Then before they
were well awakened from their sleep, he threw himself
upon them, and none could resist him, and he scattered
their heads with his sword. And when he had dispersed
the guards he came unto the lair of the White Deev.
Then Rustem stepped within the rocky tomb wherein
the Deev was hidden, and the air was murky and heavy
with evil odours, and the Pehliva could not see his path.
But he went on void of fear, though the spot was fearful
and dangers lurked in its sides. And when he was come
unto the end of the cave he found a great mass like to a
mountain, and it was the Deev in his midday slumber.
Then Rustem woke him, and the Deev was astonished
at his daring, and sprang at the hero, and threw a great
stone like a small mountain upon him. And Rustem's
heart trembled, and he said unto himself, "If I escape
to-day, I shall live for ever." And he fell on the Deev,
and they struggled hot and
Rustem, but Rustem defended himself, and they wrestled
with force till that the blood and sweat ran down in
rivers from their bodies. Then Rustem prayed to God,
and God heard him and gave him strength, and in the
end Rustem overcame the White Deev and slew him.
And he severed his head from his trunk, and cut his
heart from out his midst.
sore, and the Deev tore
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Then Rustem returned him unto Aulad and told him
what he had done. And Aulad said—
"O brave lion, who hast vanquished the world with
thy sword, release now, I pray thee, this thy servant, for
thy snare is entered into my flesh. And suffer that I
recall to thee how that thou hast promised to me a
recompense, and surely thou wilt fulfil thy word."
And Rustem answered and said, "Ay, verily; but I
have yet much to do ere that my mission be ended. For
I have still to conquer the King of Mazinderan; but
when these things shall be accomplished, in truth I will
fulfil my words unto thee."
Then he bade Aulad follow him, and they retraced
their steps until they were come unto the spot where
Kai Kaous was held in bondage. And when Kai Kaous
learned that Rustem was returned with victory upon his
brow he shouted for joy, and all the host shouted with
him, and they could not contain themselves for happiness.
And they called down the blessings of Heaven upon the
head of Rustem. But when the hero came before them,
he took of the blood of the White Deev and poured it
into their eyes, and the eyes of Kai Kaous and his men
were opened, and they once again beheld the glory of
the day. Then they swept the ground around them
with fire, with swords they overcame their gaolers. But
when they had finished, Kai Kaous bade them desist
from further bloodshed.
Then Kai Kaous wrote a letter unto the King of
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109
Mazinderan, and he counselled him that he should
conclude a peace. And he related to him how that his
mainstay was broken, for Rustem had overcome Arzang
and slain the White Deev. And he said that Rustem
would slay him also if he should not submit unto Iran
and pay tribute to its Shah. Then Kai Kaous sent a mes-
senger with this writing unto the King of Mazinderan.
Now the King, when he had read the letter, and
learned how that Arzang and the White Deev and all
his train were slain, was sore troubled, and he paled in
his spirit, and it seemed to him that the sun of his glory
was about to set. Howbeit he suffered not the messenger
to behold his distress, but wrote haughty words unto
Kai Kaous, and dared him to come forth to meet him.
And he boasted of his might and reproached Kai Kaous
with his folly. And he threatened that he would raze
Iran unto the dust.
When Kai Kaous had read this answer he was wroth,
and his nobles with him. And Rustem spake and said-
"Permit me, O my Shah, that I go forth before the
King of Mazinderan, and intrust unto me yet another
writing."
Then Kai Kaous sent for a scribe, and the scribe cut
a reed like to the point of an arrow, and he wrote with
it the words that Kai Kaous dictated. And Kai Kaous
made not many words. He bade the King lay aside his
arrogance, and he warned him of the fate that would
await his disobedience, and he said unto him that if he
110
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
listened not he might hang his severed head on the walls
of his own city. Then he signed the letter with his royal
seal, and Rustem bore it forth from the camp.
Now when the King of Mazinderan learned that Kai
Kaous sent him yet another messenger, he bade the
flower of his army go forth to meet him. And Rustem,
when he saw them come near, laid hold upon a tree of
great stature and spreading branches that grew by the
wayside. And he uprooted the tree from the earth, and
brandished it in his hands like to a javelin And those
that saw it were amazed at his strength. Then Rustem,
when he beheld their awe, flung the tree among them,
and many a brave man was dismounted by this mace.
Then there stepped forth from the midst of the host one
of the giants of Mazinderan, and he begged that he
might grasp Rustem by the hand. And when he had
hold of the hand of the Pehliva he pressed it with all his
might, for he thought that he could wring off this hand
of valour. But Rustem smiled at the feebleness of his
grasp, and he grasped him in return, and the giant grew
pale, and the veins started forth upon his hands.
Then one set off to tell the King what he had seen.
And the King sent forth his doughtiest knight, and bade
him retrieve the honour of their strength. And Kala-
hour the knight said—
"Verily so will I do, and I will force the tears of pain
from the eyes of this messenger."
And he came towards Rustem and wrung his hand,
THE MARCH INTO MAZINDERAN.
III
and his gripe was like to a vice, and Rustem felt the
pang thereof, and he winced in his suffering. But he
would not let the men of Mazinderan glory in this
triumph. He took the hand of Kalahour in his own,
and grasped it and crushed it till that the blood issued
from its veins and the nails fell from off its fingers.
Then Kalahour turned him and went before the Shah
and showed unto him his hand. And he counselled
him to make peace with the land that could send forth
such messengers whose might none could withstand.
But the King was loath to sue for peace, and he com-
manded that the messenger be brought before him.
Then the elephant-bodied stood before the King of
Mazinderan. And the King questioned him of his jour-
ney, and of Kai Kaous, and of the road that he was
come. And while he questioned he took muster of
him with his eyes, and when he had done speaking he
cried-
Surely thou art Rustem, for thou hast the arms and
breast of a Pehliva."
But Rustem replied, "Not so, I am but a slave who is
not held worthy to serve even in his train; for he is a
Pehliva great and strong, whose like the earth hath not
seen."
Then he handed unto the King the writing of his
master. But when the King had read it he was wild
with anger, and he said to Rustem-
"Surely he that hath sent thee is mad that he
112
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
addresseth such words unto me. For if he be master in
Iran, I am lord of Mazinderan, and never shall he call
me his vassal. And verily it was his own overweening
that let him fall between my hands, yet hath he learned
no lesson from his disasters, but deemeth he can crush.
me with haughty words. Go, say unto him that the
King of Mazinderan will meet him in battle, and verily
his arrogance shall learn to know humility."
And when the King had thus spoken he dismissed
Rustem from his presence, but he would have had
him bear forth rich gifts. But Rustem would not take
them, for he too was angered, and he spurred him unto
Kai Kaous with a heart hungry for vengeance.
!
And Kai Kaous made ready his army, and the King
of Mazinderan did likewise. And they marched forth
unto the meeting-place, and the earth groaned under the
feet of the war-elephants. And for seven days did the
battle rage fast and furious, and all the earth was dark-
ened with the black dust; and the fire of swords and
maces flashed through the blackness like to lightning
from a thunder-cloud. And the screams of the Deevs,
and the shouts of the warriors, and the clanging of the
trumpets, and the beating of drums, and the neighing of
horses, and the groans of the dying made the earth
hideous with noise. And the blood of the brave turned
the plain into a lake, and it was a combat such as none
hath seen the like. But victory leaned to neither side.
Then on the eighth day Kai Kaous took from his head.
THE MARCH INTO MAZIN
113
MAZINDERAN.
the crown of the Kaianides and bowed him in the dust
before Ormuzd. And he prayed and said-
"O Lord of earth, incline Thine ear unto my voice,
and grant that I may overcome these Deevs who rest
not their faith in Thee. And I pray Thee do this not
for my sake, who am unworthy of Thy benefits, but for
the sake of Iran, Thy kingdom."
Then he put the crown once more upon his head, and
went out again before the army.
And all that day the hosts fought like lions, and pity
and mercy were vanished from the world, and heaven
itself seemed to rain maces. But Ormuzd had heard
the prayer of His servant, and when evening was come
the army of Mazinderan was faded like a flower. Then
Rustem, perceiving the King of Mazinderan, challenged
him to single combat. And the King consented, and
Rustem overcame him, and raised his lance to strike
him, saying-
"Perish, O evil Deev! for thy name is struck out of
the lists of those who carry high their heads."
But when he was about to strike him, the King
put forth his arts of magic, and he was changed into a
rock within sight of all the army. And Rustem was
confounded thereat, and he knew not what he should do.
But Kai Kaous commanded that the rock be brought
before his throne. So those among the army who were
strong of limb meshed it with cords and tried to raise.
it from the earth. But the rock resisted all their efforts,
H
114
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
and none could move it a jot. Then Rustem, the
elephant-limbed, came forward to test his power, and he
grasped the rock in his mighty fist, and he bore it in his
hands across the hills, even unto the spot that Kai
Kaous had named, and all the army shouted with
amazement when they saw it.
Now when Rustem had laid down the stone at the
feet of the Shah, he spake and said unto it—
"Issue forth, I command thee, O King of Mazinderan,
or I will break thee into atoms with my mace."
When the King heard this threat he was afraid, and
came out of the stone, and stood before Rustem in all
his vileness. And Rustem took his hand and smiled,
and led him before Kai Kaous, and said—
"I bring thee this piece of rock, whom fear of my
blows hath brought unto subjection."
Then Kai Kaous reproached the King with all the
evil he had done him, and when he had spoken he bade
that the head of this wicked man be severed from its
trunk. And it was done as Kai Kaous commanded.
Then Kai Kaous gave thanks unto God, and distributed
rich gifts unto his army, to each man according to his
deserts. And he prepared a feast, and bade them.
rejoice and make merry with wine. And at last he
called before him Rustem, his Pehliva, and gave to him
thanks, and said that but for his aid he would not have
sat again upon his throne. But Rustem said-
"Not so, O King, thy thanks are due unto Aulad, for
THE MARCH INTO MAZINDERAN.
115
he it was who led me aright, and instructed me how I
could vanquish the Deevs. Grant, therefore, now that
I may fulfil my promise unto him, and bestow on him
the crown of Mazinderan."
When Kai Kaous heard these words he did as Rustem
desired, and Aulad received the crown and the land,
and there was peace yet again in Iran. And the land
rejoiced thereat, and Kai Kaous opened the doors of his
treasures, and all was well within his borders. Then
Rustem came before the Shah and prayed that he might
be permitted to return unto his father. And Kai Kaous
listened to the just desires of his Pehliva, and he sent
him forth laden with rich gifts, and he could not cease
from pouring treasure before him. And he blessed him,
and said-
"Mayest thou live as long as the sun and moon, may
thy heart continue steadfast, mayest thou ever be the
joy of Iran!"
Then when Rustem had departed, Kai Kaous gave
himself up unto delights and to wine, but he governed
his land right gloriously. He struck the neck of care
with the sword of justice, he caused the earth to be clad
with verdure, and God granted unto him His counte-
nance, and the hand of Ahriman could do no hurt.
Thus endeth the history of the march into Mazinderan.
:
KAI KAOUS COMMITTETH MORE
FOLLIES.
HILOM the fancy seized upon the Shah
of Iran that he would visit his empire,
and look face to face upon his vassals,
and exact their tribute. So he passed
from Turan into China, and from Mikran into Berberi-
stan. And wheresoever he passed men did homage
before him, for the bull cannot wage battle with the
lion. But it could not remain thus for ever, and already
there sprang forth thorns in the garden of roses. For
while the fortunes of the world thus prospered, a chief-
tain raised the standard of revolt in Egypt, and the
people of the land turned them from the gates of sub-
mission unto Iran. And there was joined unto them
the King of Hamaveran, who desired to throw off the
yoke of Persia. But Kai Kaous, when the tidings thereof
came unto him, got ready his army and marched against
the rebels. And when he came before them, their army,
that had seemed invincible, was routed, and the King
of Hamaveran was foremost to lay down his arms and
ask pardon of his Shah. And Kai Kaous granted his

KAI KAOUS COMMITTETH MORE FOLLIES.
117
petition, and the King departed joyously from out his
presence. Then one of those who stood about the Shah
said unto him-
"Is it known to thee, O Shah, that this King hideth
behind his curtains a daughter of beauty? It would
beseem my lord that he should take this moon unto
himself for wife."
And Kai Kaous answered, "Thy counsel is good, and
I will therefore send messengers unto her father, and
demand of him that he give me his daughter as tribute,
and to cement the peace that hath been made between
us."
When the King of Hamaveran heard this message his
heart was filled with gall, and his head was heavy with
sorrow, and he murmured in his spirit that Kai Kaous,
who owned the world, should desire to take from him
his chiefest treasure. And he hid not his grief from the
Shah in his answer, but he wrote also that he knew it
behoved him to do the thing that Kai Kaous desired.
Then in his distress he called before him Sudaveh his
daughter, whom he loved, and he told her all his
troubles, and bade her counsel him how he should act.
For he said-
<<
If I lose thee, the light of my life is gone out. Yet
how may I stand against the Shah?"
And Sudaveh replied, "If there be no remedy, I
counsel thee to rejoice at that which cannot be changed.”
Now when her father heard these words he knew that
118
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
she was not afflicted concerning that which was comẹ
about. So he sent for the envoy of Kai Kaous and
assented unto his demands, and they concluded an
alliance according to the forms of the land. Then
when the King had poured gifts before the messenger,
and feasted him with wine, he sent forth an escort to
bear his daughter unto the tents of the Shah. And the
young moon went forth in a litter, and she was robed
in garbs of splendour, and when Kai Kaous beheld her
loveliness he was struck dumb for very joy. Then he
raised Sudaveh unto the throne beside him, and named
her worthy to be his spouse. And they were glad in
each other, and rejoiced; but all was not to be well
thus quickly.
For the King of Hamaveran was sore in his heart
that the light of his life was gone from him, and he cast
about in his spirit how he should regain her unto him-
self. And when she had been gone but seven days, he
sent forth a messenger unto Kai Kaous and entreated
him that he would come and feast within his gates, so
that all the land might rejoice in their alliance.
When Sudaveh heard this message her mind misgave
her, and she feared evil. Wherefore she counselled the
Shah that he should abstain from this feast. But Kai
Kaous would not listen unto the fears of Sudaveh, he
would not give ear unto her warning. Wherefore he
went forth unto the city of the King of Hamaveran, and
made merry with him many days. And the King
KAI KAOUS COMMITTETH MORE FOLLIES. 119
caused gifts to be rained down upon Kai Kaous, and
he flattered him and cozened his vanity, and he made
much of his men, and he darkened their wits with fair
words and sweet wine. Then when he had lulled their
fears, and caused them to forget wherefore and why and
all knowledge of misfortune, he fell upon them and
bound them with strong chains, and overthrew their
glories and their thrones. And Kai Kaous did he
send unto a fortress whose head touched the sky and
whose foot was planted in the ocean. Then he sent
forth a strong band into the camp of Iran, and veiled
women went with them, and he charged them that they
bring back Sudaveh unto his arms.
Now when Sudaveh saw the men and the women that
went with them she guessed what was come about, and
she cried aloud, and tore her robes in anguish. And
when they had brought her before her father she re-
proved him for his treachery, and she sware that none
should part her from Kai Kaous, even though he were
hidden in a tomb. Then the King was angered when
he saw that her heart was taken from him and given to
the Shah, and he bade that she be flung into the same
prison as her lord. And Sudaveh was glad at his
resolve, and she went into the dungeon with a light
heart, and she seated herself beside the Shah, and
served him and comforted him, and they bore the
weight of captivity together.
After these things were come about, the Iranians,
I 20
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
because that their Shah was held captive, returned
unto Iran much discomfited. And when the news
spread that the throne was empty many would have
seized thereon. And Afrasiyab, when he learned it,
straightway forgot hunger and sleep, and marched a strong
army across the border. And he laid waste the land
of Iran, and men, women, and children fell into bondage
at his hands, and the world was darkened. unto the
kingdom of light. Then some arose and went before
the son of Zal to crave his help in this sore need, saying
unto him-
"Be thou our shield against misfortune, and deliver
us from affliction, for the glory of the Kaianides is
vanished, and the land which was a paradise is one no
more."
Now Rustem, when he heard the news, was grieved
for the land, but he was angered also against the Shah
that he had thus once again run into danger. Yet he
told the messengers that he would seek to deliver Kai
Kaous, and that when he had done so he would re-
member the land of Iran. And forthwith he sent a
secret messenger unto Kai Kaous, a man subtle and
wise, and caused him to say unto the Shah-
"An army cometh forth from Iran to redeem thee.
Rejoice, therefore, and cast aside thy fears."
And he also sent a writing unto the King of Hama-
veran, and the writing was filled with threats, and spake
only of maces and swords and combat. And Rustem.
KAI KAOUS COMMITTETH MORE FOLLIES. 121
loaded the King with reproaches because of his treachery,
and he bade him prepare to meet Rustem the mighty.
When the King of Hamaveran had read this letter
his head was troubled, and he defied Rustem, and
threatened him that if he came forth against him he
should meet at his hands the fate of the Shah. But
Rustem only smiled when he heard this answer, and
he said-
Surely this man is foolish, or Ahriman has filled
his mind with smoke."
Then he mounted Rakush, and made ready to go
into Hamaveran, and a vast train of warriors went
after him. And the King of Hamaveran, when he saw
it, sent forth his army against him. But the army were
afraid when they beheld Rustem and his might of mien,
his mace, and his strong arms and lion chest, and their
hearts departed from out their bodies, and they fled from
before his sight, and returned them unto the King of
Hamaveran.
Now the King was seated in the midst of his coun-
sellors, and when he saw the army thus scattered before
they had struck a blow, his heart misgave him, and he
craved advice of his chiefs. Then they counselled him
that he should cast about him for allies. So the King of
Hamaveran sent messengers of entreaty unto the Kings
of Egypt and Berberistan, and they listened to his prayers,
and sent out a great army unto his aid. And they drew
them up against Rustem, and the armies stretched for
122
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
two miles in length, and you would have said the hand-
ful of Rustem could not withstand their force. Yet
Rustem bade his men be not discomfited, and rest their
hopes on God. Then he fell upon the armies of the
Kings like to a flame that darteth forth, and the ground
was drenched with gore, and on all sides rolled heads that
were severed from their bodies; and wheresoever Rakush
and Rustem showed themselves, there was great havoc
made in the ranks. And ere the evening was come, the
Kings of Egypt and Berberistan were his captives; and
when the sun was set, the King of Hamaveran knew
that a day of ill fortune was ended. So he sent forth to
crave mercy at the hands of the Pehliva. And Rustem
listened to his voice, and said that he would stay his
hand if the King would restore unto him Kai Kaous, and
the men and treasures that were his. Then the King of
Hamaveran granted the just requests of Rustem. So
Kai Kaous was led forth from his prison, and Sudaveh
came with him. And when they beheld him, the King
of Hamaveran and his allies declared their allegiance
unto him, and they marched with him into Iran to go
out against Afrasiyab. And Sudaveh went with the
army in a litter clothed with fair stuffs, and encrusted
with wood of aloes. And she was veiled that none
might behold her beauty, and she went with the men
like to the sun when he marcheth behind a cloud.
Now when Kai Kaous was come home again unto his
land, he sent a writing unto Afrasiyab. And he said—
•
KAI KAOUS COMMITTETH MORE FOLLIES.
123
"Quit, I command thee, the land of Iran, nor seek to
enlarge thyself at my cost. For knowest thou not that
Iran is mine, and that the world pertaineth unto me?”
But Afrasiyab answered, "The words which thou dost
write are not becoming unto a man such as thou, who
didst covet Mazinderan and the countries round about.
If thou wert satisfied with Iran, wherefore didst thou
venture afield? And I say unto thee, Iran is mine,
because of Tur my forefather, and because I subdued it
under my hand."
When Kai Kaous had heard these words he knew
that Afrasiyab would not yield save unto force. So he
drew up his army into array, and they marched out to
meet the King of Turan. And Afrasiyab met them
with a great host, and the sound of drums and cymbals
filled the air. And great was the strife and bloody, but
Rustem broke the force of Turan, and the fortunes of its
army were laid to rest upon the field of battle. And
Afrasiyab, when he beheld it, was discomfited, and his
spirit boiled over like to new wine that fermenteth.
And he mourned over his army and the warriors that he
had trained, and he conjured those that remained to
make yet another onslaught, and he spake fair promises
unto them if they would deliver into his hands Rustem,
the Pehliva. And he said-
"Whoever shall bring him alive before me, I will give
unto him a kingdom and an umbrella, and the hand of
my daughter in marriage."
124
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
And the Turks, when they heard these words, girded
them yet again for resistance. But it availed them nought,
for the Iranians were mightier than they, and they
watered the earth with their blood until the ground was
like a rose.
And the fortunes of the Turks were as a
light put out, and Afrasiyab fled before the face of
Rustem, and the remnant of his army went after him.
Then Kai Kaous seated himself once more upon his
throne, and men were glad that there was peace. And
the Shah opened the doors of justice and splendour, and
all men did that which was right, and the wolf turned
him away from the lamb, and there was gladness through
all the length of Iran. And the Shah gave thanks unto
Rustem that he had aided him yet again, and he named
him Jahani Pehliva, which being interpreted meaneth
the champion of the world, and he called him the source
of his happiness. Then he busied himself with building
mighty towers and palaces, and the land of Iran was
made fair at his hands, and all was well once more
within its midst.
But Ahriman the wakeful was not pleased thereat, and
he pondered how he could once again arouse the
ambition of the Shah. So he held counsel with his
Deevs how they might turn the heart of Kai Kaous from
the right path. And one among them said—
"Suffer that I go before the Shah, and I will do thy
behest."
And Ahriman suffered it.
Then the Deev took upon
KAI KAOUS COMMITTETH MORE FOLLIES.
125
him the form of a youth, and in his hand he held a clus-
ter of roses, and he presented them unto the Shah, and
he kissed the ground before his feet. And when Kai
Kaous had given him leave to speak he opened his
mouth and said-
"O Shah, live for ever! though such is thy might and
majesty that the vault of heaven alone should be thy
throne. All the world is submissive before thee, and I
can bethink me but of one thing that is lacking unto thy
glory."
Then Kai Kaous questioned him of this one thing, and
the Deev said-
"It is that thou knowest not the nature of the sun
and moon, nor wherefore the planets roll, neither the
secret causes that set them in motion. Thou art master
of all the earth, therefore shouldest thou not make the
heavens also obedient to thy will?"
When Kai Kaous heard these words of craft his mind
was dimmed, and he forgot that man cannot mount unto
the skies, and he pondered without ceasing how he could
fly unto the stars and inquire into their secrets. And he
consulted many wise men in his trouble, but none could
aid him. But at last it came about that a certain man
taught him how he could perchance accomplish hist
designs. And Kai Kaous did according to his instruc-
tions. He built him a framework of aloe-wood, and
at the four corners thereof he placed javelins upright,
and on their points he put the flesh of goats. Then
7
126
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
?
he chose out four eagles strong of wing, and bound
them unto the corners of this chariot. And when it was
done, Kai Kaous seated himself in the midst thereof
with much pomp. And the eagles, when they smelt the
flesh, desired after it, and they flapped their wings and
raised themselves, and raised the framework with them.
And they struggled sore, but they could not attain unto
the meat; but ever as they struggled they bore aloft
with them Kai Kaous and the throne whereon he sat.
And so long as their hunger lasted, they strove after the
prey. But at length their strength would hold no longer,
and they desisted from the attempt. And behold! as
they desisted the fabric fell back to earth, and the shock
thereof was great. And but for Ormuzd Kai Kaous
would have perished in the presumption of his spirit.
Now the eagles had borne the Shah even unto the
desert of Cathay, and there was no man to succour him,
and he suffered from the pangs of hunger, and there
was nothing to assuage his longing, neither could his
thirst be stilled. And he was alone, and sorrowful and
shamed in his soul that he had yet again brought
derision upon Iran. And he prayed to God in his
trouble, and entreated pardon for his sins.
While Kai Kaous thus strove with repentance, Rustem
learned tidings of him, and he set out with an army to
seek him. And when he had found him he gave rein
unto his anger, and he rebuked him for his follies, and
he said-
KAI KAOUS COMMITTETH MORE FOLLIES.
127
Hath the world seen the like of this man? Hath
a more foolish head sat upon the throne of Iran?
Ye would say there were no brains within this
skull, or that not one of its thoughts was good. Kai
Kaous is like a thing that is possessed, and every wind
beareth him away. Thrice hast thou now fallen into
mishap, and who can tell whether thy spirit hath yet
learned wisdom? And it will be a reproach unto Iran
all her days that a king puffed up with idle pride was
seated upon her throne, a man who deemed in his folly
that he could mount unto the skies, and visit the sun
and moon, and count the stars one by one. I entreat
of thee bethink thee of thy forefathers, and follow in
their steps, and rule the land in equity, neither rush
after these mad adventures."
When Kai Kaous had listened to the bitter words
spoken by Rustem, he was bowed down in his spirit and
ashamed before him in his soul. And when at last he
opened his mouth it was to utter words of humility.
And he said unto Rustem-
"Surely that which thou speakest, it is true."
Then he suffered himself to be led back unto his palace,
and many days and nights did he lie in the dust before.
God, and it was long before he held him worthy to
mount again upon his throne. But when he deemed
that God had forgiven him, he seated him upon it once
again. In humility did he mount it, and he filled it
in wisdom. And henceforth he ruled the land with
128
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
justice, and he did that which was right in the sight of
God, and bathed his face with the waters of sincerity.
And kings and rulers did homage before him, and for-
got the follies that he had done, and Kai Kaous grew
worthy of the throne of light. And Iran was exalted
at his hands, and power and prosperity increased within
its borders.
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.

IVE ear unto the combat of Sohrab against
Rustem, though it be a tale replete with
tears.
It came about that on a certain day Rus-
tem arose from his couch, and his mind
was filled with forebodings. He bethought him therefore
to go out to the chase. So he saddled Rakush and made
ready his quiver with arrows. Then he turned him unto
the wilds that lie near Turan, even in the direction of the
city of Samengan. And when he was come nigh unto
it, he started a herd of asses and made sport among
them till that he was weary of the hunt. Then he
caught one and slew it and roasted it for his meal, and
when he had eaten it and broken the bones for the
marrow, he laid himself down to slumber, and Rakush
cropped the pasture beside him.
Now while the hero was sleeping there passed by
seven knights of Turan, and they beheld Rakush and
coveted him. So they threw their cords at him to
ensnare him. But Rakush, when he beheld their design,
pawed the ground in anger, and fell upon them as he
I
130
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
•
had fallen upon the lion. And of one man he bit off the
head, and another he struck down under his hoofs, and
he would have overcome them all, but they were too
many. So they ensnared him and led him into the city,
thinking in their hearts, "Verily a goodly capture have
we made." But Rustem when he awoke from his
slumbers was downcast and sore grieved when he saw
not his steed, and he said unto himself—
"How can I stand against the Turks, and how can I
traverse the desert alone?"
And his heart was full of trouble. Then he sought
for the traces of the horse's hoofs, and he followed them,
and they led him even unto the gates of the city. Now
when those within beheld Rustem, and that he came
before them on foot, the King and the nobles came forth
to greet him, and inquired of him how this was come
about. Then Rustem told them how Rakush was
vanished while he slumbered, and how he had followed
his track even unto these gates. And he sware a great
oath, and vowed that if his courser were not restored
unto him many heads should quit their trunks. Then
the King of Samengan, when he saw that Rustem was
beside himself with anger, spoke words of soothing, and
said that none of his people should do wrong unto the
hero; and he begged him that he would enter into his
house and abide with him until that search had been
made, saying-
Surely Rakush cannot be hid.”
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
*131
And Rustem was satisfied at these words, and cast
suspicion from his spirit, and entered the house of the
King, and feasted with him, and beguiled the hours
with wine. And the King rejoiced in his guest, and
encompassed him with sweet singers and all honour.
And when the night was fallen the King himself led
Rustem unto a couch perfumed with musk and roses,
and he bade him slumber sweetly until the morning.
And he declared to him yet again that all was well for
him and for his steed.
Now when a portion of the night was spent, and the
star of morning stood high in the arch of heaven, the
door of Rustem's chamber was opened, and a murmur
of soft voices came in from the threshold. And there
stepped within a slave bearing a lamp perfumed with
amber, and a woman whose beauty was veiled came
after her. And as she moved musk was scattered from
her robes. And the women came nigh unto the bed
of the hero heavy with wine and slumber. And he was
amazed when he saw them. And when he had roused
him somewhat he spake and said—
"Who art thou, and what is thy name and thy desire,
and what seekest thou from me in the dark night?”
Then the Peri-faced answered him, saying, “I am
Tahmineh, the daughter of the King of Samengan, of
the race of the leopard and the lion, and none of the
princes of this earth are worthy of my hand, neither
hath any man seen me unveiled. But my heart is torn
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
with anguish, and my spirit is tossed with desire, for I
have heard of thy deeds of prowess, and how thou
fearest neither Deev nor lion, neither leopard nor croco-
dile, and how thy hand is swift to strike, and how thou
didst venture alone into Mazinderan, and how wild asses
are devoured of thee, and how the earth groaneth under
the tread of thy feet, and how men perish at thy blows,
and how even the eagle dareth not swoop down upon
her prey when she beholdeth thy sword. These things
and more have they told unto me, and mine eyes have
yearned to look upon thy face. And now hath God
brought thee within the gates of my father, and I am
come to say unto thee that I am thine if thou wilt
hear me, and if thou wilt not, none other will I espouse.
And consider, O Pehliva, how that love hath obscured
mine understanding and withdrawn me from the bosom.
of discretion, yet peradventure God will grant unto me
a son like to thee for strength and valour, to whom shall
be given the empire of the world. And if thou wilt listen
unto me, I will lead forth before thee Rakush thy steed,
and I will place under thy feet the land of Samengan."
Now while this moon of beauty was yet speaking,
Rustem regarded her. And he saw that she was fair,
and that wisdom abode in her mind; and when he
heard of Rakush, his spirit was decided within him,
and he held that this adventure could not end save
gloriously. So he sent a Mubid unto the King and
demanded the hand of Tahmineh from her father.
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
133
And the King, when he heard the news, was rejoiced,
and gave his daughter unto the Pehliva, and they con-
cluded an alliance according to custom and the rites.
And all men, young and old, within the house and city
of the King were glad at this alliance, and called down
blessings upon Rustem.
Now Rustem, when he was alone with the Peri-faced,
took from his arm an onyx that was known unto all
the world. And he gave it to her, and said-
"Cherish this jewel, and if Heaven cause thee to give
birth unto a daughter, fasten it within her locks, and it
will shield her from evil; but if it be granted unto thee
to bring forth a son, fasten it upon his arm, that he may
wear it like his father. And he shall be strong as Keri-
man, of stature like unto Saum the son of Neriman, and
of grace of speech like unto Zal, my father."
The Peri-faced, when she had heard these words, was
glad in his presence. But when the day had passed
there came in unto them the King her father, and he
told Rustem how that tidings of Rakush were come
unto his ears, and how that the courser would shortly
be within the gates. And Rustem, when he heard it,
was filled with longing after his steed, and when he
knew that he was come he hastened forth to caress him.
And with his own hands he fastened the saddle, and
gave thanks unto Ormuzd, who had restored his joy
between his hands. Then he knew that the time to
depart was come. And he opened his arms and took
134
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
unto his heart Tahmineh the fair of face, and he bathed
her cheek with his tears and covered her hair with
kisses. Then he flung him upon Rakush, and the swift-
footed bare him quickly from out of her sight. And
Tahmineh was sorrowful exceedingly, and Rustem too
was filled with thoughts as he turned him back unto
Zaboulistan. And he pondered this adventure in his
heart, but to no man did he speak of what he had seen
or done.
Now when nine moons had run their course there
was born unto Tahmineh a son in the likeness of his
father, a babe whose mouth was filled with smiles,
wherefore men called him Sohrab. And when he
numbered but one month he was like unto a child of
twelve, and when he numbered five years he was skilled
in arms and all the arts of war, and when ten years had
rolled above his head there was none in the land that
could resist him in the games of strength. Then he
came before his mother and spake words of daring.
And he said—
Since I am taller and stouter than my peers, teach
unto me my race and lineage, and what I shall say
when men ask me the name of my sire. But if thou re-
fuse an answer unto my demands, I will strike thee out
from the rolls of the living."
When Tahmineh beheld the ardour of her son, she
smiled in her spirit because that his fire was like to that
of his father. And she opened her mouth and said—
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
135
"Hear my words, O my son, and be glad in thine
heart, neither give way in thy spirit to anger. For
thou art the offspring of Rustem, thou art descended
from the seed of Saum and Zal, and Neriman was thy
forefather. And since God made the world it hath held
none like unto Rustem, thy sire."
Then she showed to him a letter written by the Pehliva,
and gave to him the gold and jewels Rustem had sent
at his birth. And she spake and said-
"Cherish these gifts with gratitude, for it is thy father
who hath sent them. Yet remember, O my son, that
thou close thy lips concerning these things; for Turan
groaneth under the hand of Afrasiyab, and he is foe unto
Rustem the glorious. If, therefore, he should learn of
thee, he would seek to destroy the son for hatred of the
sire. Moreover, O my boy, if Rustem learned that thou
wert become a mountain of valour, perchance he would.
demand thee at my hands, and the sorrow of thy loss
would crush the heart of thy mother."
But Sohrab replied, "Nought can be hidden upon
earth for aye.
To all men are known the deeds of
Rustem, and since my birth be thus noble, wherefore
hast thou kept it dark from me so long? I will go forth.
with an army of brave Turks and lead them unto Iran, I
will cast Kai Kaous from off his throne, I will give to
Rustem the crown of the Kaianides, and together we will
subdue the land of Turan, and Afrasiyab shall be slain
by my hands. Then will I mount the throne in his
1
136
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
stead. But thou shalt be called Queen of Iran, for since
Rustem is my father and I am his son no other kings
shall rule in this world, for to us alone behoveth it to
wear the crowns of might. And I pant in longing after
the battlefield, and I desire that the world should
behold my prowess.
But a horse is needful unto me, a
steed tall and strong of power to bear me, for it beseem-
eth me not to go on foot before mine enemies.”
Now Tahmineh, when she had heard the words of this
boy, rejoiced in her soul at his courage. So she bade
the guardians of the flocks lead out the horses before
Sohrab her son. And they did as she had bidden, and
Sohrab surveyed the steeds, and tested their strength
like as his father had done before him of old, and he
bowed them under his hand, and he could not be
satisfied. And thus for many days did he seek a worthy
steed. Then one came before him and told of a foal
sprung from Rakush, the swift of foot. When Sohrab
heard the tidings he smiled, and bade that the foal be
led before him. And he tested it and found it to be
strong. So he saddled it and sprang upon its back, and
cried, saying-
"Now that I own a horse like thee, the world shall
be made dark to many."
Then he made ready for war against Iran, and the
nobles and warriors flocked around him. And when
all was in order Sohrab came before his grandsire and
craved his counsel and his aid to go forth into the land
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
137
of Iran and seek out his father. And the King of
Samengan, when he heard these wishes, deemed them to
be just, and he opened the doors of his treasures without
stint and gave unto Sohrab of his wealth, for he was
filled with pleasure at this boy. And he invested Sohrab
with all the honours of a King, and he bestowed on him
all the marks of his good pleasure.
And
Meantime a certain man brought news unto Afrasiyab
that Sohrab was making ready an army to fall upon
Iran, and to cast Kai Kaous from off his throne.
he told Afrasiyab how the courage and valour of Sohrab
exceeded words. And Afrasiyab, when he heard this,
hid not his contentment, and he called before him
Human and Barman, the doughty. Then he bade them
gather together an army and join the ranks of Sohrab,
and he confided to them his secret purpose, but he en-
joined them tell no man thereof. For he said—
"Into our hands hath it been given to settle the course
of the world. For it is known unto me that Sohrab is
sprung from Rustem the Pehliva, but from Rustem must
it be hidden who it is that goeth out against him, then
peradventure he will perish by the hands of this young
lion, and Iran, devoid of Rustem, will fall a prey into
my hands. Then will we subdue Sohrab also, and all
the world will be ours. But if it be written that Sohrab
fall under the hand of Tehemten, then the grief he shall
endure when he shall learn that he hath slain his son will
bring him to the grave for sorrow."
138
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
So spake Afrasiyab in his guile, and when he had
done unveiling his black heart he bade the warriors de-
part unto Samengan. And they bare with them gifts of
great price to pour before the face of Sohrab. And
they bare also a letter filled with soft words. And in
the letter Afrasiyab lauded Sohrab for his resolve, and
told him how that if Iran be subdued the world would
henceforth know peace, for upon his own head should
he place the crown of the Kaianides; and Turan, Iran,
and Samengan should be as one land.
When Sohrab had read this letter, and saw the gifts
and the aid sent out to him, he rejoiced aloud, for he
deemed that now none could withstand his might. So
he caused the cymbals of departure to be clashed, and
the army made them ready to go forth. Then Sohrab
led them into the land of Iran. And their track was
marked by desolation and destruction, for they spared
nothing that they passed. And they spread fire and
dismay abroad, and they marched on unstayed until they
came unto the White Castle, the fortress wherein Iran
put its trust.
Now the guardian of the castle was named Hujir, and
there lived with him Gustahem the brave, but he was
grown old, and could aid no longer save with his coun-
sels. And there abode also his daughter Gurdafrid, a
warlike maid, firm in the saddle, and practised in the
fight. Now when Hujir beheld from afar a dusky cloud
of armed men he came forth to meet them. And Sohrab,
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
139
محمد
when he saw him, drew his sword, and demanded his
name, and bade him prepare to meet his end. And
he taunted him with rashness that he was come forth
thus unaided to stand against a lion. But Hujir an-
swered Sohrab with taunts again, and vowed that he
would sever his head from his trunk and send it for a
trophy unto the Shah. Yet Sohrab only smiled when
he heard these words, and he challenged Hujir to come
And they met in combat, and wrestled sore one
with another, and stalwart were their strokes and strong;
but Sohrab overcame Hujir as though he were an infant,
and he bound him and sent him captive unto Human.
near.
But when those within the castle learned that their
chief was bound they raised great lamentation, and their
fears were sore. And Gurdafrid too, when she learned
it, was grieved, but she was ashamed also for the fate of
Hujir. So she took forth burnished mail and clad her-
self therein, and she hid her tresses under a helmet of
Roum, and she mounted a steed of battle and came forth
before the walls like to a warrior. And she uttered a
cry of thunder, and flung it amid the ranks of Turan,
and she defied the champions to come forth to single.
combat. And none came, for they beheld her how she
was strong, and they knew not that it was a woman, and
they were afraid. But Sohrab, when he saw it, stepped
forth and said-
"I will accept thy challenge, and a second prize will
fall into my hands."
t
140
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
And Sohrab
Then he girded himself and made ready for the fight.
And the maid, when she saw he was ready, rained arrows
upon him with art, and they fell quick like hail, and
whizzed about his head; and Sohrab, when he saw it,
could not defend himself, and was angry and ashamed.
Then he covered his head with his shield and ran at the
maid. But she, when she saw him approach, dropped
her bow and couched a lance, and thrust at Sohrab with
vigour, and shook him mightily, and it wanted little and
she would have thrown him from his seat.
was amazed, and his wrath knew no bounds. Then he
ran at Gurdafrid with fury, and seized the reins of her
steed, and caught her by the waist, and tore her armour,
and threw her upon the ground. Yet ere he could
raise his hand to strike her, she drew her sword and
shivered his lance in twain, and leaped again upon
her steed. And when
when she saw that the day was
hers, she was weary of further combat, and she sped
back unto the fortress. But Sohrab gave rein unto
his horse, and followed after her in his great anger.
And he caught her, and seized her, and tore the
helmet from off her head, for he desired to look upon
the face of the man who could withstand the son
of Rustem. And lo! when he had done so, there
rolled forth from the helmet coils of dusky hue, and
Sohrab beheld it was a woman that had overcome
him in the fight. And he was confounded. But
when he had found speech he said—
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
141
"If the daughters of Iran are like to thee, and go forth
unto battle, none can stand against this land."
Then he took his cord and threw it about her, and
bound her in its snare, saying--
"Seek not to escape me, O moon of beauty, for never
hath prey like unto thee fallen between my hands."
Then Gurdafrid, full of wile, turned unto him her face
that was unveiled, for she beheld no other means of
safety, and she said unto him—
7?
"O hero without flaw, is it well that thou shouldest
seek to make me captive, and show me unto the army
For they have beheld our combat, and that I overcame
thee, and surely now they will gibe when they learn that
thy strength was withstood by a woman. Better would
it beseem thee to hide this adventure, lest thy cheeks.
have cause to blush because of me. Therefore let us
conclude a peace together. The castle shall be thine,
and all it holds; follow after me then, and take posses-
sion of thine own."
"}
Now Sohrab, when he had listened, was beguiled by
her words and her beauty, and he said—
"Thou dost wisely to make peace with me, for verily
these walls could not resist my might."
And he followed after her unto the heights of the
castle, and he stood with her before its gates. And
Gustahem, when he saw them, opened the portal, and
Gurdafrid stepped within the threshold, but when Sohrab
would have followed after her she shut the door upon
142
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
him. Then Sohrab saw that she had befooled him, and
his fury knew no bounds. But ere he was recovered
from his surprise she came out upon the battlements and
scoffed at him, and counselled him to go back whence he
was come; for surely, since he could not stand against a
woman, he would fall an easy prey before Rustem, when
the Pehliva should have learned that robbers from
Turan were broken into the land. And Sohrab was
made yet madder for her words, and he departed from
the walls in his wrath, and rode far in his anger, and
spread terror in his path. And he vowed that he would
yet bring the maid into subjection.
In the meantime Gustahem the aged called before.
him a scribe, and bade him write unto Kai Kaous all
that was come about, and how an army was come forth
from Turan, at whose head rode a chief that was a child
in years, a lion in strength and stature. And he told
how Hujir had been bound, and how the fortress was
like to fall into the hands of the enemy; for there were
none to defend it save only his daughter and himself,
and he craved the Shah to come to their aid.
Albeit when the day had followed yet again upon the
night, Sohrab made ready his host to fall upon the castle.
But when he came near thereto he found it was empty,
and the doors thereof stood open, and no warriors
appeared upon its walls. And he was surprised, for he
knew not that in the darkness the inmates had fled by a
passage that was hidden under the earth. And he
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
143
searched the building for Gurdafrid, for his heart yearned
after her in love, and he cried aloud—
((
'Woe, woe is me that this moon is vanished behind
the clouds!"
Now when Kai Kaous had gotten the writing of
Gustahem, he was sore afflicted and much afraid, and
he called about him his nobles and asked their counsels.
And he said-
"Who shall stand against this Turk? For Gustahem
doth liken him in power unto Rustem, and saith he
resembleth the seed of Neriman."
Then the warriors cried with one accord, "Unto Rus-
tem alone can we look in this danger!"
And Kai Kaous hearkened to their voice, and he
called for a scribe and dictated unto him a letter. And
he wrote unto his Pehliva, and invoked the blessings of
Heaven upon his head, and he told him all that was
come to pass, and how new dangers threatened Iran,
and how to Rustem alone could he look for help in his
trouble. And he recalled unto Tehemten all that he
had done for him in the days that were gone by, and he
entreated him once again to be his refuge. And he
said-
"When thou shalt receive this letter, stay not to speak
the word that hangeth upon thy lips; and if thou bearest
roses in thy hands, stop not to smell them, but haste
thee to help us in our need."
Then Kai Kaous sent forth Gew with this writing unto
144
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
1
Zaboulistan, and bade him neither rest nor tarry until he
should stand before the face of Rustem. And he
said—
"When thou hast done my behest, turn thee again
unto me; neither abide within the courts of the Pehliva,
nor linger by the roadside."
And Gew did as the Shah commanded, and took
neither food nor rest till he set foot within the gates of
Rustem. And Rustem greeted him kindly, and asked
him of his mission; and when he had read the writing
of the Shah, he questioned Gew concerning Sohrab.
For he said—
"I should not marvel if such an hero arose in Iran, but
that a warrior of renown should come forth from amid the
Turks, I cannot believe it. But thou sayest none knoweth
whence cometh this knight. I have myself a son in
Samengan, but he is yet an infant, and his mother
writeth to me that he rejoiceth in the sports of his age,
and though he be like to become a hero among men, his
time is not yet come to lead forth an army. And that
which thou sayest hath been done, surely it is not the
work of a babe. But enter, I pray thee, into my house,
and we will confer together concerning this adventure.”
Then Rustem bade his cooks make ready a banquet,
and he feasted Gew, and troubled his head with wine,
and caused him to forget cares and time. But when
morn was come Gew remernbered the commands of the
Shah that he tarry not, but return with all speed, and
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
145
he spake thereof to Rustem, and prayed him to make
known his resolve. But Rustem spake, saying—
Disquiet not thyself, for death will surely fall upon
these men of Turan. Stay with me yet another day and
rest, and water thy lips that are parched. For though
this Sohrab be a hero like to Saum and Zal and Neri-
man, verily he shall fall by my hands."
And he made ready yet another banquet, and three
days they caroused without ceasing. But on the fourth
Gew uprose with resolve, and came beføre Rustem girt
for departure. And he said-
It behoveth me to return, O Pehliva, for I bethink
me how Kai Kaous is a man hard and choleric, and the
fear of Sohrab weigheth upon his heart, and his soul
burneth with impatience, and he hath lost sleep, and
hath hunger and thirst on this account. And he will be
wroth against us if we delay yet longer to do his behest."
Then Rustem said, "Fear not, for none on earth dare
be angered with me."
But he did as Gew desired, and made ready his army,
and saddled Rakush, and set forth from Zaboulistan, and
a great train followed after him.
Now when they came nigh unto the courts of the Shah,
the nobles came forth to meet them, and do homage
before Rustem. And when they were come in, Rustem
gat him from Rakush and hastened into the presence of
his lord. But Kai Kaous, when he beheld him, was
angry, and spake not, and his brows were knit with fury;
K
146
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
and when Rustem had done obeisance before him, he
unlocked the doors of his mouth, and words of folly
escaped his lips. And he said-
"Who is Rustem, that he defieth my power and dis-
regardeth my commands? If I had a sword within my
grasp I would split his head like to an orange. Seize him,
I command, and hang him upon the nearest gallows,
and let his name be never spoken in my presence."
When he heard these words Gew trembled in his
heart, but he said, "Dost thou put forth thy hand against
Rustem?"
And the Shah when he heard it was beside himself,
and he cried with a loud voice that Gew be hanged to-
gether with the other; and he bade Tus lead them forth.
And Tus would have led them out, for he hoped the
anger of the Shah would be appeased; but Rustem
broke from his grasp and stood before Kai Kaous, and
all the nobles were filled with fear when they saw his
anger. And he flung reproaches at Kai Kaous, and he
recalled to him his follies, and the march into Mazin-
deran and Hamaveran, and his flight into Heaven; and
he reminded him how that but for Rustem he would not
now be seated upon the throne of light. And he bade
him threaten Sohrab the Turk with his gallows, and he
said-
I am a free man and no slave, and am servant alone
unto God; and without Rustem Kai Kaous is as
nothing. And the world is subject unto me, and Rakush
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
147
But now
is my throne, and my sword is my seal, and my helmet
my crown. And but for me, who called forth Kai Kobad,
thine eyes had never looked upon this throne. And
had I desired it I could have sat upon its seat.
am I weary of thy follies, and I will turn me away from
Iran, and when this Turk shall have put you under his
yoke I shall not learn thereof."
Then he turned him and strode from out the presence-
chamber. And he sprang upon Rakush, who waited
without, and he had vanished from before their eyes ere
yet the nobles had rallied from their astonishment.
And they were downcast and oppressed with boding
cares, and they held counsel among themselves what
to do; for Rustem was their mainstay, and they
knew that, bereft of his arm and counsel, they could
not stand against this Turk. And they blamed
Kai Kaous, and counted over the good deeds that
Rustem had done for him, and they pondered and spake
long. And in the end they resolved to send a messenger
unto Kai Kaous, and they chose from their midst Gudarz
the aged, and bade him stand before the Shah. And
Gudarz did as they desired, and he spake long and
without fear, and he counted over each deed that had
been done by Rustem; and he reproached the Shah
with his ingratitude, and he said how Rustem was the
shepherd, and how the flock could not be led without its
leader. And Kai Kaous heard him unto the end, and
he knew that his words were the words of reason and
148
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
truth, and he was ashamed of that which he had done,
and confounded when he beheld his acts thus naked be-
fore him. And he humbled himself before Gudarz, and
said-
"That which thou sayest, surely it is right."
And he entreated Gudarz to go forth and seek Rustem,
and bid him forget the evil words of his Shah, and bring
him back to the succour of Iran. And Gudarz hastened
forth to do as Kai Kaous desired, and he told the nobles
of his mission, and they joined themselves unto him, and
all the chiefs of Iran went forth in quest of Rustem.
And when they had found him, they prostrated them-
selves into the dust before him, and Gudarz told him of
his mission, and he prayed him to remember that Kai
Kaous was a man devoid of understanding, whose
thoughts flowed over like to new wine that fermenteth.
And he said-
"Though Rustem be angered against the King, yet
hath the land of Iran done no wrong that it should
perish at his hands. Yet, if Rustem save it not, surely
it will fall under this Turk."
But Rustem said, "My patience hath an end, and
I fear none but God. What is this Kai Kaous that
he should anger me? and what am I that I have need of
him? I have not deserved the evil words that he
spake unto me, but now will I think of them no longer,
but cast aside all thoughts of Iran."
When the nobles heard these words they grew pale,
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
149
I
and fear took hold on their hearts. But Gudarz, full of
wisdom, opened his mouth and said-
"O Pehliva! the land, when it shall learn of this,
will deem that Rustem is fled before the face of this
Turk; and when men shall believe that Tehemten is
afraid, they will cease to combat, and Iran will be down-
trodden at his hands. Turn thee not, therefore, at this
hour from thy allegiance to the Shah, and tarnish not thy
glory by this retreat, neither suffer that the downfall of
Iran rest upon thy head. Put from thee, therefore, the
words that Kai Kaous spake in his empty anger, and lead
us forth to battle against this Turk. For it must not be
spoken that Rustem feared to fight a beardless boy."
And Rustem listened and pondered these words in
his heart, and knew that they were good. But he
said-
"Fear hath never been known of me, neither hath Rus-
tem shunned the din of arms, and I depart not because
of Sohrab, but because that scorn and insult have been
my recompense."
Yet when he had pondered a while longer, he saw
that he must return unto the Shah. So he did that
which he knew to be right, and he rode till he came unto
the gates of Kai Kaous, and he strode with a proud step
into his presence.
Now when the Shah beheld Rustem from afar, he
stepped down from off his throne and came before his
Pehliva, and craved his pardon for that which was come
1.50
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
about. And he said how he had been angered because
Rustem had tarried in his coming, and how haste was
his birthright, and how he had forgotten himself in his
But now was his mouth filled with the dust
vexation.
of repentance. And Rustem said-
"The world is the Shah's, and it behoveth thee to do
as beseemeth thee best with thy servants. And until
old age shall my loins be girt in fealty unto thee. And
may power and majesty be thine for ever!"
And Kai Kaous answered and said, "O my Pehliva,
may thy days be blessed unto the end!"
Then he invited him to feast with him, and they drank
wine till far into the night, and held counsel together
how they should act; and slaves poured rich gifts before
Rustem, and the nobles rejoiced, and all was well again
within the gates of the King.
Then when the sun had risen and clothed the world
with love, the clarions of war were sounded throughout
the city, and men made them ready to go forth in enmity
before the Turks. And the legions of Persia came forth
at the behest of their Shah, and their countless thousands
hid the earth under their feet, and the air was darkened
by their spears.
And when they were come unto the
plains where stood the fortress of Hujir, they set up
their tents as was their manner. So the watchman saw
them from the battlements, and he set up a great cry."
And Sohrab heard the cry, and questioned the man
wherefore he shouted; and when he learned that the
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
151
enemy were come, he rejoiced, and demanded a cup of
wine, and drank to their destruction. Then he called
forth Human and showed him the army, and bade him
be of good cheer, for he said that he saw within its ranks
no hero of mighty mace who could stand against himself.
So he bade his warriors to a banquet of wine, and he
said that they would feast until the time was come to
meet their foes in battle. And they did as Sohrab said.
Now when night had thrown her mantle over the
earth, Rustem came before the Shah and craved that he
would suffer him to go forth beyond the camp that he
might see what manner of man was this stripling. And
Kai Kaous granted his request, and said that it was
worthy a Pehliva of renown. Then Rustem went forth
disguised in the garb of a Turk, and he entered the
castle in secret, and he came within the chamber where
Sohrab held his feast. Now when he had looked upon
the boy he saw that he was like to a tall cypress of good
sap, and that his arms were sinewy and strong like to
the flanks of a camel, and that his stature was that of a
hero. And he saw that round about him stood brave
warriors. And slaves with golden bugles poured wine
before them, and they were all glad, neither did they
dream of sorrow. Then it came about that while Rus-
tem regarded them, Zindeh changed his seat and came.
nigh unto the spot where Rustem was watching. Now
Zindeh was brother unto Tahmineh, and she had sent
him forth with her son that he might point out to him
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
his father, whom he alone knew of all the army, and she
did it that harm might not befall if the heroes should
meet in battle. Now Zindeh, when he had changed his
seat, thought that he espied a watcher, and he strode to-
wards the place where Rustem was hid, and he came be-
fore him and said-
Who art thou? Come forth into the light that I
may behold thy face."
But ere he could speak further, Rustem had lifted up
his hand and struck him, and laid him dead upon the
ground.
Now Sohrab, when he saw that Zindeh was gone out,
was disquieted, and he asked of his slaves wherefore the
hero returned not unto the banquet. So they went forth
to seek him, and when they had found him in his blood,
they came and told Sohrab what they had seen. But
Sohrab would not believe it; so he ran to the spot and
bade them bring torches, and all the warriors and singing
girls followed after him. Then when Sohrab saw that it
was true he was sore grieved; but he suffered not that
the banquet be ended, for he would not that the spirits of
his men be damped with pity. So they went back yet
again to the feast.
Meanwhile Rustem returned him to the camp, and as
he would have entered the lines he encountered Gew,
who went around to see that all was safe. And Gew,
when he saw a tall man clad in the garb of a Turk,
drew his sword and held himself ready for combat. But
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
153
Rustem smiled and opened his mouth, and Gew knew.
his voice, and came to him and questioned him what he
did without in the darkness. And Rustem told him.
Then he went before Kai Kaous also and related what
he had seen, and how no man like unto Sohrab was yet
come forth from amid the Turks. And he likened him
unto Saum, the son of Neriman.
armour.
Now when the morning was come, Sohrab put on his
Then he went unto a height whence he could
look down over the camp of the Iranians. And he took
with him Hujir, and spake to him, saying—
Seek not to deceive me, nor swerve from the paths
of truth. For if thou reply unto my questions with
sincerity, I will loosen thy bonds and give thee treasures;
but if thou deceive me, thou shalt languish till death in
thy chains."
And Hujir said, "I will give answer unto thee accord-
ing to my knowledge."
Then Sohrab said, “I am about to question thee con-
cerning the nobles whose camps are spread beneath our
feet, and thou shalt name unto me those whom I point
out. Behold yon tent of gold brocade, adorned with
skins of leopard, before whose doors stand an hundred
elephants of war. Within its gates is a throne of tur-
quoise, and over it floateth a standard of violet with a
moon and sun worked in its centre. Tell unto me now
whose is this pavilion that standeth thus in the midst of
the whole camp?"
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
And Hujir replied, "It pertaineth unto the Shah of
Iran."
Then Sohrab said, “I behold on its right hand yet
another tent draped in the colours of mourning, and
above it floateth a standard whereon is worked an
elephant."
And Hujir said, "It is the tent of Tus, the son of
Nuder, for he beareth an elephant as his ensign.”
Then Sohrab said, "Whose is the camp in which
stand many warriors clad in rich armour? A flag of
gold with a lion worked upon it waveth along its field."
And Hujir said, "It belongeth unto Gudarz the brave.
And those who stand about it are his sons, for eighty
men of might are sprung from his loins."
Before its doors is planted
upon its throne a Pehliva,
fellows, whose head striketh
Then Sohrab said, "To whom belongeth the tent
draped with green tissues?
the flag of Kawah. I see
nobler of mien than all his
the stars. And beside him standeth a steed tall as he,
and his standard showeth a lion and a writhing dragon."
When Hujir heard this question he thought within
himself, "If I tell unto this lion the signs whereby he
may know Rustem the Pehiiva, surely he will fall upon
him and seek to destroy him. It will beseem me better,
therefore, to keep silent, and to omit his name from the
list of the heroes." So he said unto Sohrab-
<<
Fa
This is some ally who is come unto Kai Kaous
from far Cathay, and his name is not known unto me."
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
155
And Sohrab when he heard it was downcast, and his
heart was sad that he could nowhere discover Rustem;
and though it seemed unto him that he beheld the marks
whereby his mother said that he would know him, he
could not credit the words of his eyes against the words
of Hujir. Still he asked yet again the name of the
warrior, and yet again Hujir denied it unto him, for it
was written that that should come to pass which had
been decreed. But Sohrab ceased not from his question-
ings. And he asked-
"Who dwelleth beneath the standard with the head of
a wolf?"
And Hujir said, "It is Gew, the son of Gudarz, who
dwelleth within that tent, and men call him Gew the
valiant."
Then Sohrab said, "Whose is the seat over which are
raised awnings and brocades of Roum, that glisten with
gold in the sunlight?"
And Hujir said, "It is the throne of Fraburz, the son
of the Shah."
Then Sohrab said, "It beseemeth the son of a Shah
to surround himself with such splendour."
And he pointed unto a tent with trappings of yellow
that was encircled by flags of many colours. And he
questioned of its owner.
And Hujir said, "Guraz the lion-hearted is master
therein."
Then Sohrab, when he could not learn the tent of his
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
father, questioned Hujir concerning Rustem, and he
asked yet a third time of the green tent. Yet Hujir
ever replied that he knew not the name of its master.
And when Sohrab pressed him concerning Rustem, he
said that Rustem lingered in Zaboulistan, for it was the
feast of roses. But Sohrab refused to give ear unto the
thought that Kai Kaous should go forth to battle with-
out the aid of Rustem, whose might none could match.
So he said unto Hujir—
"An thou show not unto me the tents of Rustem, I
will strike thy head from off thy shoulders, and the
world shall fade before thine eyes.
the truth or thy life."
Choose, therefore,
And Hujir thought within himself, “Though fivescore
men cannot withstand Rustem when he be roused to
battle-fury, my mind misgiveth me that he may have
found his equal in this boy. And, for that the stripling
is younger, it might come about that he subdue the
Pehliva. What recketh my life against the weal of
Iran? I will therefore abandon me into his hands
rather than show unto him the marks of Rustem the
Pehliva. So he said-
"Why seekest thou to know Rustem the Pehliva?
Surely thou wilt know him in battle, and he shall strike.
thee dumb, and quell thy pride of youth. Yet I will
not show him unto thee."
When Sohrab heard these words he raised his sword
and smote Hujir, and made an end of him with a great
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
157
blow. Then he made himself ready for fight, and leaped
upon his steed of battle, and he rode till he came unto
the camp of the Iranians, and he broke down the
barriers with his spear, and fear seized upon all men
when they beheld his stalwart form and majesty of mien
and action. Then Sohrab opened his mouth, and his
voice of thunder was heard even unto the far ends of the
camp. And he spake words of pride, and called forth.
the Shah to do battle with him, and he sware with a
loud voice that the blood of Zindeh should be avenged.
Now when Sohrab's voice had rung throughout the camp,
confusion spread within its borders, and none of those
who stood about the throne would accept his challenge
for the Shah. And with one accord they said that
Rustem was their sole support, and that his sword alone
could cause the sun to weep. And Tus sped him within
the courts of Rustem. And Rustem said-
"The hardest tasks doth Kai Kaous ever lay upon
me."
But the nobles would not suffer him to linger, neither
to waste time in words, and they buckled upon him his
armour, and they threw his leopard-skin about him, and
they saddled Rakush, and made ready the hero for the
strife. And they pushed him forth, and called after
him-
Haste, haste, for no common combat awaiteth thee,
for verily Ahriman standeth before us.”
Now when Rustem was come before Sohrab, and
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
1
beheld the youth, brave and strong, with a breast like
unto Saum, he said to him-
66
'Let us go apart from hence, and step forth from out
the lines of the armies."
For there was a zone between the two camps that
none might pass. And Sohrab assented to the demand
of Rustem, and they stepped out into it, and made them
ready for single combat. But when Sohrab would have
fallen upon him, the soul of Rustem melted with com-
passion, and he desired to save a boy thus fair and
valiant. So he said unto him—
“O young man, the air is warm and soft, but the earth
is cold. I have pity upon thee, and would not take from
thee the boon of life. Yet if we combat together, surely
thou wilt fall by my hands, for none have withstood
my power, neither men nor Deevs nor dragons. Desist,
therefore, from this enterprise, and quit the ranks of
Turan, for Iran hath need of heroes like unto thee."
Now while Rustem spake thus, the heart of Sohrab
went out to him. And he looked at him wistfully, and
said-
“O hero, I am about to put unto thee a question, and
I entreat of thee that thou reply to me according to the
truth. Tell unto me thy name, that my heart may
rejoice in thy words, for it seemeth unto me that thou
art none other than Rustem, the son of Zal, the son of
Saum, the son of Neriman.”
But Rustem replied, "Thou erṛest, I am not Rustem,
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
159
neither am I sprung from the race of Neriman. Rustem
is a Pehliva, but I, I am a slave, and own neither a
crown nor a throne."
These words spake Rustem that Sohrab might be
afraid when he beheld his prowess, and deem that yet
greater might was hidden in the camp of his enemy. But
Sohrab when he heard these words was sad, and his hopes
that were risen so high were shattered, and the day that
had looked so bright was made dark unto his eyes.
Then he made him ready for the combat, and they fought
until their spears were shivered and their swords hacked
like unto saws. And when all their weapons were bent,
they betook them unto clubs, and they waged war with
these until they were broken. Then they strove until
their mail was torn and their horses spent with exhaus-
tion, and even then they could not desist, but wrestled
with one another with their hands till that the sweat and
blood ran down from their bodies. And they contended
until their throats were parched and their bodies weary,
and to neither was given the victory. Then they stayed
them a while to rest, and Rustem thought within his
mind how all his days he had not coped with such a
hero. And it seemed to him that his contest with the
White Deev had been as nought to this.
Now when they had rested a while they fell to again,
and they fought with arrows, but still none could sur-
pass the other. Then Rustem strove to hurl Sohrab from
his steed, but it availed him nought, and he could shake
160
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
him no more than the mountain can be moved from
its seat. So they betook themselves again unto clubs,
and Sohrab aimed at Rustem with might and smote him,
and Rustem reeled beneath the stroke, and bit his lips
in agony. Then Sohrab vaunted his advantage, and
bade Rustem go and measure him with his equals; for
though his strength be great, he could not stand against
a youth. So they went their ways, and Rustem fell
upon the men of Turan, and spread confusion far and
wide among their ranks; and Sohrab raged along the
lines of Iran, and men and horses fell under his hands.
And Rustem was sad in his soul, and he turned with
sorrow into his camp. But when he saw the destruc-
tion Sohrab had wrought his anger was kindled, and he
reproached the youth, and challenged him to come forth
yet again to single combat. But because that the day
was far spent they resolved to rest until the morrow.
Then Rustem went before Kai Kaous and told him of
this boy of valour, and he prayed unto Ormuzd that He
would give him strength to vanquish his foe. Yet he
made ready also his house lest he should fall in the fight,
and he commanded that a tender message be borne unto
Rudabeh, and he sent words of comfort unto Zal, his
father. And Sohrab, too, in his camp lauded the might
of Rustem, and he said how the battle had been sore,
and how his mind had misgiven him of the issue. And
he spake unto Human, saying—
"My mind is filled with thoughts of this aged man,
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
161
mine adversary, for it would seem unto me that his
stature is like unto mine, and that I behold about him
the tokens that my mother recounted unto me. And
my heart goeth out towards him, and I muse if it be
Rustem, my father.
him. Wherefore, I
be."
For it behoveth me not to combat
beseech thee, tell unto me how this
But Human answered and said, "Oft have I looked
upon the face of Rustem in battle, and mine eyes have
beheld his deeds of valour; but this man in no wise
resembleth him, nor is his manner of wielding his club
the same."
These things spake Human in his vileness, because
that Afrasiyab had enjoined him to lead Sohrab into
destruction. And Sohrab held his peace, but he was
not wholly satisfied.
Now when the day had begun to lighten the sky and
clear away the shadows, Rustem and Sohrab strode forth
unto the midway spot that stretched between the armies.
And Sohrab bare in his hands a mighty club, and the
garb of battle was upon him; but his mouth was full
of smiles, and he asked of Rustem how he had rested, and
he said-
"Wherefore hast thou prepared thy heart for battle?
Cast from thee, I beg, this mace and sword of vengeance,
and let us doff our armour, and seat ourselves together
in amity, and let wine soften our angry deeds. For it
seemeth unto me that this conflict is impure. And if thou
L
162
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
wilt listen to my desires, my heart shall speak to thee of
love, and I will make the tears of shame spring up
into thine eyes.
And for this cause I ask thee yet
again, tell me thy name, neither hide it any longer,
for I behold that thou art of noble race. And it
would seem unto me that thou art Rustem, the chosen
one, the Lord of Zaboulistan, the son of Zal, the son of
Saum the hero.”
But Rustem answered, "O hero of tender age, we
are not come forth to parley but to combat, and mine
ears are sealed against thy words of lure. I am an old
man, and thou art young, but we are girded for battle,
and the Master of the world shall decide between us.”
Then Sohrab said, “O man of many years, wherefore
wilt thou not listen to the counsel of a stripling? I
desired that thy soul should leave thee upon thy bed,
but thou hast elected to perish in the combat. That
which is ordained it must be done, therefore let us make
ready for the conflict.”
So they made them ready, and when they had bound
their steeds they fell upon each other, and the crash of
their encounter was heard like thunder throughout the
camps. And they measured their strength from the
morning until the setting of the sun. And when the
day was about to vanish, Sohrab seized upon Rustem by
the girdle and threw him upon the ground, and kneeled
upon him, and drew forth his sword from his scabbard,
and would have severed his head from his trunk. Then
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
163
Rustem knew that only wile could save him. So he
opened his mouth and said-
"O young man, thou knowest not the customs of the
combat. It is written in the laws of honour that he who
overthroweth a brave man for the first time should not
destroy him, but preserve him for fight a second time,
then only is it given unto him to kill his adversary."
And Sohrab listened to Rustem's words of craft and
stayed his hand, and he let the warrior go, and because
that the day was ended he sought to fight no more, but
turned him aside and chased the deer until the night was
spent. Then came to him Human, and asked of the
adventures of the day. And Sohrab told him how he
had vanquished the tall man, and how he had granted
him freedom. And Human reproached him with his
folly, and said-
"Alas! young man, thou didst fall into a snare, for
this is not the custom among the brave. And now per-
chance thou wilt yet fall under the hands of this warrior."
Sohrab was abashed when he heard the words of
Human, but he said-
"Be not grieved, for in an hour we meet again in battle,
and verily he will not stand a third time against my
youthful strength."
Now while Sohrab was thus doing, Rustem was gone
beside a running brook, and laved his limbs, and`prayed
to God in his distress. And he entreated of Ormuzd
that He would grant him such strength that the victory
164
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
must be his. And Ormuzd heard him, and gave to him
such strength that the rock whereon Rustem stood gave
way under his feet, because it had not power to bear him.
Then Rustem saw it was too much, and he prayed yet
again that part thereof be taken from him. And once
more Ormuzd listened to his voice. Then when the
time for combat was come, Rustem turned him to the
meeting-place, and his heart was full of cares and his
face of fears. But Sohrab came forth like a giant
refreshed, and he ran at Rustem like to a mad elephant,
and he cried with a voice of thunder-
<<
O thou who didst flee from battle, wherefore art thou
come out once more against me? But I say unto thee,
this time shall thy words of guile avail thee nought.”
And Rustem, when he heard him, and looked upon.
him, was seized with misgiving, and he learned to know
fear. So he prayed to Ormuzd that He would restore.
to him the power He had taken back. But he suffered
not Sohrab to behold his fears, and they made them to
order for the fight. And he closed upon Sohrab with
all his new-found might, and shook him terribly, and
though Sohrab returned his attacks with vigour, the hour
of his overthrow was come. For Rustem took him by the
girdle and hurled him unto the earth, and he broke his
back like to a reed, and he drew forth his sword to sever
his body. Then Sohrab knew it was the end, and he
gave a great sigh, and writhed in his agony, and he
said-
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
165
"That which is come about, it is my fault, and hence-
forward will my youth be a theme of derision among the
people. But I sped not forth for empty glory, but I
went out to seek my father; for my mother had told me
by what tokens I should know him, and I perish for
longing after him. And now have my pains been fruit-
less, for it hath not been given unto me to look upon his
face. Yet I say unto thee, if thou shouldest become a
fish that swim meth in the depths of the ocean, if thou
shouldest change into a star that is concealed in the
farthest heaven, my father would draw thee forth from
thy hiding-place, and avenge my death upon thee when
he shall learn that the earth is become my bed. For
my father is Rustem the Pehliva, and it shall be told
unto him how that Sohrab his son perished in the quest
after his face."
When Rustem heard these words his sword fell from
out of his grasp, and he was shaken with dismay. And
there broke from his heart a groan as of one whose heart
was racked with anguish. And the earth became dark
before his eyes, and he sank down lifeless beside his
son. But when he had opened his eyes once more, he
cried unto Sohrab in the agony of his spirit. And he
said-
"Bearest thou about thee a token of Rustem, that I
may know that the words which thou speakest are true?
For I am Rustem the unhappy, and may my name be
struck from the lists of men !"
166
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
When Sohrab heard these words his misery was bound-
less, and he cried—
"If thou art indeed my father, then hast thou stained
thy sword in the life-blood of thy son. And thou didst
it of thine obstinacy. For I sought to turn thee unto
love, and I implored of thee thy name, for I thought to
behold in thee the tokens recounted of my mother. But
I appealed unto thy heart in vain, and now is the time
gone by for meeting. Yet open, I beseech thee, mine
armour, and regard the jewel upon mine arm. For it is
an onyx given unto me by my father, as a token
whereby he should know me.”
Then Rustem did as Sohrab bade him, and he opened
his mail and saw the onyx; and when he had seen it he
tore his clothes in his distress, and he covered his head
with ashes. And the tears of penitence ran from his
eyes, and he roared aloud in his sorrow. But Sohrab
said-
"It is in vain, there is no remedy. Weep not, there-
fore, for doubtless it was written that this should be."
Now when the sun was set, and Rustem returned not
to the camp, the nobles of Iran were afraid, and they
went forth to seek him. And when they were gone but
a little way they came upon Rakush, and when they saw
that he was alone they raised a wailing, for they deemed
that of a surety Rustem had perished. And they went
and told Kai Kaous thereoi, and he said—
"Let Tus go forth and see if this indeed be so, and if
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
167
Rustem have truly fallen, let the drums call men unto
battle that we may avenge him upon this Turk.”
Now Sohrab, when he beheld afar off the men that were
come out to seek Rustem, turned to his father and said-
I entreat of thee that thou do unto me an act of love.
Let not the Shah fall upon the men of Turan, for they
came not forth in enmity to him but to do my desire,
and on my head alone resteth this expedition. Where-
fore I desire not that they should perish when I can
defend them no longer. As for me, I came like the
thunder and I vanish like the wind, but perchance it is
given unto us to meet again above."
Then Rustem promised to do the desires of Sohrab.
And he went before the men of Iran, and when they
beheld him yet alive they set up a great shout, but when
they saw that his clothes were torn, and that he bare
about him the marks of sorrow, they asked of him what
was come to pass. Then he told them how he had caused
a noble son to perish. And they were grieved for him,
and joined in his wailing. Then he bade one among
them go forth into the camp of Turan, and deliver this
message unto Human. And he sent word unto him,
saying-
"The sword of vengeance must slumber in the
scabbard. Thou art now leader of the host; return, there-
fore, whence thou camest, and depart across the river ere
many days have fallen. As for me, I will fight no more;
yet neither will I speak unto thee again, for thou didst
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
hide from my son the tokens of his father, of thine
iniquity thou didst lead him into this pit."
Then when he had thus spoken, Rustem turned him
yet again unto his son. And the nobles went with him,
and they beheld Sohrab, and heard his groans of pain.
And Rustem, when he saw the agony of the boy, was
beside himself, and would have made an end of his own
life, but the nobles suffered it not, and stayed his hand.
Then Rustem remembered him that Kai Kaous had a
balm mighty to heal. And he prayed Gudarz go before
the Shah, and bear unto him a message of entreaty from
Rustem his servant. And he said—
'O Shah, if ever I have done that which was good in
thy sight, if ever my hand have been of avail unto thee,
recall now my benefits in the hour of my need, and have
pity upon my dire distress. Send unto me, I pray thee,
of the balm that is among thy treasures, that my son
may be healed by thy grace."
And Gudarz outstripped the whirlwind in his speed to
bear unto the Shah this message. But the heart of Kai
Kaous was hardened, and he remembered not the benefits
he had received from Rustem, and he recalled only the
proud words that he had spoken before him. And he
was afraid lest the might of Sohrab be joined to that
of his father, and that together they prove mightier than
he, and turn upon him. So he shut his ear unto the cry
of his Pehliva. And Gudarz bore back the answer of
the Shah, and he said-
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
169
"The heart of Kai Kaous is flinty, and his evil nature
is like to a bitter gourd that ceaseth never to bear fruit.
Yet I counsel thee, go before him thyself, and see if
peradventure thou soften this rock."
And Rustem in his grief did as Gudarz counselled, and
turned to go before the Shah, but he was not come
before him ere a messenger overtook him, and told unto
him that Sohrab was departed from the world. Then
Rustem set up a wailing such as the earth hath not heard
the like of, and he heaped reproaches upon himself, and
he could not cease from plaining the son that was fallen
by his hands. And he cried continually-
"I that am old have killed my son. I that am strong
have uprooted this mighty boy. I have torn the heart
of my child, I have laid low the head of a Pehliva."
Then he made a great fire, and flung into it his tent of
many colours, and his trappings of Roum, his saddle,
and his leopard-skin, his armour well tried in battle, and
all the appurtenances of his throne. And he stood by
and looked on to see his pride laid in the dust. And he
tore his flesh, and cried aloud—
"My heart is sick unto death."
Then he commanded that Sohrab be swathed in rich
brocades of gold worthy his body. And when they had
enfolded him, and Rustem learned that the Turanians.
had quitted the borders, he made ready his army to return
unto Zaboulistan. And the nobles marched before the
bier, and their heads were covered with ashes, and their
170
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
garments were torn. And the drums of the war-
elephants were shattered, and the cymbals broken, and
the tails of the horses were shorn to the root, and all the
signs of mourning were abroad.
Now Zal, when he saw the host returning thus in sor-
row, marvelled what was come about; for he beheld
Rustem at their head, wherefore he knew that the wail-
ing was not for his son. And he came before Rustem
and questioned him. And Rustem led him unto the
bier and showed unto him the youth that was like in
feature and in might unto Saum the son of Neriman,
and he told him all that was come to pass, and how this
was his son, who in years was but an infant, but a hero in
battle. And Rudabeh too came out to behold the child,
and she joined her lamentations unto theirs. Then they
built for Sohrab a tomb like to a horse's hoof, and Rus-
tem laid him therein in a chamber of gold perfumed
with ambergris. And he covered him with brocades of
gold. And when it was done, the house of Rustem grew
like to a grave, and its courts were filled with the voice
of sorrow. And no joy would enter into_the_heart_of
Rustem, and it was long before he held high his head.
Meantime the news spread even unto Turan, and
there too did all men grieve and weep for the child of
prowess that was fallen in his bloom. And the King of
Samengan tore his vestments, but when his daughter
learned it she was beside herself with affliction. And
Tahmineh cried after her son, and bewailed the evil fate
RUSTEM AND SOHRAB.
171
that had befallen him, and she heaped black earth upon
her head, and tore her hair, and wrung her hands, and
rolled on the ground in her agony. And her mouth was
never weary of plaining. Then she caused the garments
of Sohrab to be brought unto her, and his throne and his
steed. And she regarded them, and stroked the courser
and poured tears upon his hoofs, and she cherished
the robes as though they yet contained her boy, and she
pressed the head of the palfrey unto her breast, and she
kissed the helmet that Sohrab had worn. Then with his
sword she cut off the tail of his steed and set fire unto
the house of Sohrab, and she gave his gold and jewels
unto the poor. And when a year had thus rolled over
her bitterness, the breath departed from out her body,
and her spirit went forth after Sohrab her son.
SAIAWUSH.

Na certain day it came about that Tus,
Gew, Gudarz, and other brave knights of
Iran, went forth to chase wild asses in
the forests of Daghoui. Now when they
were come into the wood, they found
therein a woman of surpassing beauty, and the hearts
of Tus and Gew burned towards her in love. And
when they had questioned her of her lineage, and
learned that she was of the race of Feridoun, each
desired to take her to wife. But none would give
way unto the other, and hot words were bandied, and
they were like to come unto blows. Then one spake,
and said-
"I counsel you, let Kai Kaous decide between you."
And they listened to the voice of the counsellor, and
they took with them the peri-faced, and led her before
Kai Kaous, and recounted to him all that was come
about. But Kai Kaous, when he beheld the beauty
of the maid, longed after her for himself, and he said
that she was worthy of the throne; and he took her
and led her into the house of his women.
SAIAWUSH.
173
Now after many days there was born to her a son,
and he was of goodly mien, tall and strong, and the
name that was given to him was Saiawush. And Kai
Kaous rejoiced in this son of his race, but he was
grieved also because of the message of the stars con-
cerning him. For it was written that the heavens were
hostile unto this infant; neither would his virtues avail
him aught, for these above all would lead him into
destruction.
In the meantime the news that a son had been born
unto the Shah spread even unto the land of Rustem.
And the Pehliva, when he learned thereof, aroused him
from his sorrow for Sohrab, and he came forth out
of Zaboulistan and asked for the babe at the hands
of its father, that he might rear it unto Iran. And
Kai Kaous suffered it, and Rustem bare the child unto
his kingdom, and trained him in the arts of war and
of the banquet. And Saiawush increased in might
and beauty, and you would have said that the world
held not his like.
Now when Saiawush was become strong (so that
he could ensnare a lion), he came before Rustem,
bearing high his head. And he spake, saying—
"I desire to go before the Shah, that my father
may behold me, and see what manner of man thou
hast made of me."
And Rustem deemed that he spake well. So he
made great preparations, and marched unto Iran
174
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
with a mighty host, and Saiawush rode with him at
their head. And the land rejoiced when it looked on
the face of Saiawush, and there was great joy in the
courts of the King, and jewels and gold and precious
things past the telling rained upon Rustem and
Saiawush his charge. And Kai Kaous was glad
when he beheld the boy, and gave rich rewards unto
Rustem; but Saiawush did he place beside him on
the throne. And all men spake his praises, and there
was a feast given, such as the world hath not seen the
like.
Then Saiawush stayed in the courts of his father,
and seven years did he prove his spirit; but in the
eighth, when he had found him worthy, he gave unto
him a throne and a crown. And all was well, and
men had forgotten the evil message of the stars. But
that which is written in the heavens, it is surely accom-
plished, and the day of ill fortune drew nigh. For it
came about that Sudaveh beheld the youth of Saiawush,
and her eyes were filled with his beauty, and her soul
burned after him. So she sent unto him a messenger,
and invited him to enter the house of the women. But
he sent in answer words of excuse, for he trusted her
not. Then Sudaveh made complaint before Kai Kaous
that Saiawush had deafened his ear unto her request,
and she bade the Shah send him behind the curtains
of the women's house, that his son might become
acquainted with his sisters. And Kai Kaous did that
SAIAWUSH.
175
which Sudaveh asked of him, and Saiawush obeyed
his commands.
But Sudaveh, when she had so far accomplished her
longing that she had gotten him within the house, desired
that he should speak with her alone. But Saiawush
resisted her wish. And three times did Sudaveh entice
him behind the curtains of the house, and three times
was Saiawush cold unto her yearning. Then Sudaveh
was wroth, and she made complaint unto the Shah,
and she slandered the fair fame of Saiawush, and she
spread evil reports of him throughout the land, and she
inflamed the heart of Kai Kaous against his son. Now
the Shah was angered beyond measure, and it availed
nought unto Saiawush to defend himself, for Kai Kaous
was filled with the love of Sudaveh, and he listened.
only unto her voice. And he remembered how she
had borne his captivity in Hamaveran, and he knew.
not of her evil deceits. And when she said that
Saiawush had done her great wrong, Kai Kaous was
troubled in his spirit, and he resolved how he should
act, for his heart went out also unto his son, and he
feared that guile lurked in these things. And he could
not decide between them. So he caused dromedaries
to be sent forth, even unto the borders of the land, and
bring forth wood from the forests. And they did so,
and there was reared a mighty heap of logs, so that
the eye could behold it at the distance of two farsangs.
And it was piled so that a path ran through its midst.
176
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
such as a mounted knight could traverse. And the
Shah commanded that naphtha be poured upon the
wood; and when it was done he bade that it be lighted,
and there were needed two hundred men to light the
pyre, so great was its width and height. And the
flames and smoke overspread the heavens, and men
shouted for fear when they beheld the tongues of fire,
and the heat thereof was felt in the far corners of the
land.
Now when all was ready, Kai Kaous bade Saiawush
his son ride into the midst of the burning mount, that
he might prove his innocence. And Saiawush did as the
King commanded, and he came before Kai Kaous, and
saluted him, and made him ready for the ordeal. And
when he came nigh unto the burning wood, he com-
mended his soul unto God, and prayed that He would
make him pure before his father. And when he had
done so, he gave rein unto his horse, and entered into
the flame. And a great cry of sorrow arose from all
men in the plains and in the city, for they held that
no man could come forth alive from this furnace. And
Sudaveh heard the cry, and came forth upon the roof
of her house that she might behold the sight, and she
prayed that ill might befall unto Saiawush, and she
held her eyes fastened upon the pyre. But the nobles
gazed on the face of Kai Kaous, and their mouths were
filled with execrations, and their lips trembled with
wrath at this deed.
SAIAWUSH.
177
And Saiawush rode on undaunted, and his white
robes and ebon steed shone forth between the flames,
and their anger was reflected upon his helmet of gold.
And he rode until he was come unto the end of the
pathway, and when he came forth there was not singed
a hair of his head, neither had the smoke blackened
his garments.
Now when the people beheld that he was come forth
alive, they rent the welkin with their shouting. And
the nobles came forth to greet him, and, save only
Sudaveh, there was joy in all hearts. Now Saiawush
rode till he came before the Shah, and then he got
him off his horse, and did homage before his father.
And when Kai Kaous beheld him, and saw that there
were no signs of fire about him, he knew that he was
innocent. So he raised his son from off the ground,
and placed Saiawush beside him on the throne, and
asked his forgiveness for that which was come to pass.
And Saiawush granted it. Then Kai Kaous feasted
his son with wine and song, and three days did they
spend in revels, and the door of the King's treasury was
opened.
But on the fourth day Kai Kaous mounted the
throne of the Kaianides. He took in his hand the
ox-headed mace, and he commanded that Sudaveh be
led before him. Then he reproached her with her evil
deeds, and he bade her make ready to depart the
world, for verily death was decreed unto her. And in
M
178
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
vain did Sudaveh ask for pardon at the hands of the
King, for she continued to speak ill of Saiawush, and
she said that by the arts of magic alone had he escaped
the fire, and she ceased not to cry against him. So
the King gave orders that she be led forth unto death,
and the nobles approved his resolve, and invoked the
blessings of Heaven upon the head of the Shah. But
Saiawush, when he learned it, was grieved, for he knew
that the woman was beloved of his father. And he
went before Kai Kaous, and craved her pardon. And
Kai Kaous granted it with gladness, for his heart
yearned after Sudaveh. So Saiawush led her back,
and the curtains of the house of the women hid her
once more behind them, and the Shah was glad again
in her sight.
Then it came about that the love of Kai Kaous for
Sudaveh grew yet mightier, and he was as wax under
her hands. And when she saw that her empire over
him was strengthened, she filled his ear with plaints of
Saiawush, and she darkened the mind of the Shah till
that his spirit was troubled, and he knew not where he
should turn for truth.
Now while Kai Kaous thus dallied behind the cur-
tains of his house, Afrasiyab made him ready with three
thousand chosen men to fall upon the land of Iran. And
Kai Kaous, when he learned it, was sad, for he knew
that he must exchange the banquet for the battle; and
he was angered also with Afrasiyab, and he poured out
SAIAWUSH.
179
words of reproof against him because he had broken his
covenant and had once more attacked his land. Yet he
made him ready to lead forth his army. Then a Mubid
prayed him that he would not go forth himself, and he
recalled unto Kai Kaous how twice already he had en-
dangered his kingdom. But Kai Kaous was wroth when
he heard these words, and he bade the Mubid depart
from his presence, and he sware that he alone could
turn the army unto good issue.
But Saiawush, when he heard it, took heart of grace,
for he thought within his spirit, "If the King grant unto
me to lead forth his army, perchance I may win unto
myself a name of valour, and be delivered from the wiles
of Sudaveh." So he girded himself with the armour of
battle and came before the King his father, and made
known to him his request. And he recalled unto Kai
Kaous how that he was his son, and how he was sprung
from a worthy race, and how his rank permitted him to
lead forth a host; and Kai Kaous listened to his words
with gladness, and assented to his desires. Then mes-
sengers were sent unto Rustem to bid him go forth to
battle with his charge and guard him. And Kai Kaous
said unto his Pehliva-
"If thou watchest over him, I can slumber; but if
thou reposest, then doth it beseem me to act.”
And Rustem answered and said, “O King, I am
thy servant, and it behoveth me to do thy will. As
for Saiawush, he is the light of my heart and the
180
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
joy of my soul; I rejoice to lead him forth before his
enemies."
So the trumpets of war were sounded, and the clang
of armour and the tramp of horsemen and of foot filled
the air. And five Mubids bare aloft the standard of
Kawah, and the army followed after them. And they
passed in order before Kai Kaous, and he blessed the
troops and his son, who rode at their head. And he
spake, saying—
(C
'May thy good star shine down upon thee, and mayst
thou come back to me victorious and glad."
Then Kai Kaous returned him unto his house, and
Saiawush gave the signal to depart. And they marched
until they came unto the land of Zaboulistan.
Now when they were come there they rested them a
while, and feasted in the house of Zal. And while they
revelled there came out to join them riders from Cabul
and from Ind, and wherever there was a king of might
he sent over his army to aid them. Then when a month
had rolled above their heads they took their leave
of Zal and of Zaboulistan, and went forward till they
came unto Balkh. And at Balkh the men of Turan
met them, and Gersiwaz, the brother of Afrasiyab, was
at their head. Now when he saw the hosts of Iran, he
knew that the hour to fight was come. So the two
armies made them in order, and they waged battle hot
and sore, and for three days the fighting raged without
ceasing, but on the fourth victory passed over to Iran.
SAIAWUSH.
181
Then Saiawush called before him a scribe, and wrote a
letter, perfumed with musk, unto Kai Kaous his father.
And when he had invoked the blessings of Heaven
upon his head, he told him all that was come to pass,
and how he had conquered the foes of Iran. And Kai
Kaous, when he had read the letter, rejoiced, and wrote
an answer unto his son, and his gladness shone in his
words, and you would have said it was a letter like to
the tender green of spring.
But Afrasiyab, when he learned the news, was dis-
comfited, and that which Gersiwaz told unto him was
bitter to his taste, and he was beside himself for anger.
Now when he had heard his brother to an end, Afra-
siyab laid him down to slumber. Yet ere the night was
spent there came out one to the house of Gersiwaz and
told unto him that Afrasiyab was shouting like to a man
bereft of reason. Then Gersiwaz went in unto the King,
and he beheld him lying upon the floor of his chamber
roaring in agony of spirit. Then he raised him, and
questioned him wherefore he cried out thus. But
Afrasiyab said—
"
'Question me not until I have recovered my wits, for
I am like to one possessed."
Then he desired that torches be brought within to
light up the darkness, and he gathered his robes about
him and mounted upon his throne. And when he had
done so he called for the Mubids, and he recounted to
them the dream that had visited his slumber. And he
182
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
told how that he had seen the earth filled with serpents,
and the Iranians were fallen upon him, and evil was
come to him from Kai Kaous and a boy that stood
beside him on the throne. And he trembled as he
related his dream, and he would take no comfort from
the words of Gersiwaz.
Now the Mubids as they listened were afraid, and when
Afrasiyab bade them open their lips, they dared not for
fear. Then the King said that he would cleave open their
heads if they spake not, and he sware unto them a great
oath that he would spare them, even though the words
they should utter be evil. Then they revealed to him
how it was written that Saiawush would bring destruc-
tion upon Turan, and how he would be victorious over
the Turks, and how, even though he should fall by the
hands of Afrasiyab, this evil could not be stayed. And
they counselled Afrasiyab to contend no longer against
the son of Kai Kaous, for surely if he stayed not his
hand this evil could not be turned aside.
When Afrasiyab heard this message, he took counsel
with Gersiwaz, and he said—
"If I cease from warring against Saiawush surely
none of these things can come about. It beseemeth me
to seek after peace. I will send therefore silver and
jewels and rich gifts unto Saiawush, and will bind up
with gold the eye of war."
So he bade Gersiwaz take from his treasures rich
brocades of Roum and jewels of price, and bear them
SAIAWUSH.
183
across the Jihun to the camp of Saiawush. And he
sent a message unto him, saying-
"The world is disturbed since the days of Silim and
Tur, the valiant, since the times of Irij, who was killed.
unjustly. But now, let us forget these things, let us
conclude an alliance together, and let peace reign in our
borders."
And Gersiwaz did as Afrasiyab bade, and he went
forth, and a train of camels bearing rich presents fol-
lowed after him. And he marched till he came within
the tents of Saiawush.
Now when he had delivered his message unto Saia-
wush, the young King marvelled thereat; and he took
counsel with Rustem how they should act, for he trusted
not in the words of Afrasiyab, and he deemed that
poison was hidden under these flowers. And Rustem
counselled him that they should entertain Gersiwaz the
space of seven days, and that joy and feasting should
resound throughout the camp, and in the mean season
they would ponder their deeds. And it was done as
Rustem said, and the sounds of revelry were abroad, and
Gersiwaz rejoiced in the presence of Saiawush. But on
the eighth day Gersiwaz presented himself before Saia-
wush in audience, and demanded a reply. And Saia-
wush said-
"We have pondered thy message, and we yield to
thy request, for we desire not bloodshed but peace.
Yet since it behoveth us to know that poison be not
184
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
hidden under thy words, we desire of thee that thou
send over to us as hostages an hundred chosen men of
Turan, allied unto Afrasiyab by blood, that we may
guard them as a pledge of thy words."
When Gersiwaz heard this answer, he sent it unto
Afrasiyab by a messenger quick as the wind. And
Afrasiyab, when he heard it, was troubled, for he said-
"If I give way to this demand I bereave the land of
its choicest warriors; yet if I refuse, Saiawush will deny
belief unto my words, and the evils foretold will fall
upon me."
So he chose out from among his army men allied to
him by blood, and he sent them forth unto Saiawush.
Then he caused the trumpets to sound, and retreated
with his army unto Turan, and restored unto Iran the
lands he had seized.
Now when Rustem beheld the warriors, and that
Afrasiyab had spoken that which was true, he suffered
Gersiwaz to depart; and he held counsel with Saiawush
how they should acquaint Kai Kaous with that which
was come to pass, for Saiawush said—
"If Kai Kaous desire vengeance rather than peace, he
will be angered and commit a deed of folly. Who shall
bear unto him these tidings?"
And Rustem said, "Suffer that I go forth to tell them
unto Kai Kaous, for verily he will listen unto that which
I shall speak, and honour will fall upon Saiawush for
this adventure."
SAIAWUSH.
185
Wherefore Rustem went before the King, and told
him they had conquered Afrasiyab, and how he was
become afraid, and how there was concluded a peace
between them. And he vaunted the wisdom of Saia-
wush that was quick to act and quick to refrain, and he
craved the Shah to confirm what they had done. But
Kai Kaous was angered when he heard it, and he said.
that Saiawush had done like to an infant. And he
loaded reproaches upon Rustem, and said that his
counsels were vile, and he sware that he would be
avenged upon Turan. Then he recalled all they had
suffered in the days that were past at the hands of
Afrasiyab, and he said the tree of vengeance could not
be uprooted. And he desired Rustem that he turn him
back unto Balkh, and say unto Saiawush that he should
destroy these hostages of Turan, and that he should fall.
again upon Afrasiyab, nor cease from fighting. But
Rustem, when he had heard him to an end, opened
his mouth and said unto the Shah-
"O King, listen to my voice, and do not that which
is evil! Verily I say unto thee that Saiawush will not
break his oath unto Afrasiyab, neither will he destroy
these men of Turan that were delivered into his hands."
When Kai Kaous heard this speech his anger was
kindled, and he upbraided Rustem, and said that his evil
counsels had caused Saiawush to swerve from the straight
path; and he taunted him and bade him go back unto
Seistan, and he said that Tus should go forth as Pehliva
186
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
unto his son. Then Rustem too was angered, and he gave
back the reproaches of the Shah, and he turned him and
quitted the courts and sped him back unto his kingdom.
But Kai Kaous sent Tus unto the army at his borders,
and he bade him speak his desires unto Saiawush
his son.
Now Saiawush, when he learned what was come about,
was sore discomfited, and he pondered how he should
act. For he said, "How can I come before Ormuzd if
I depart from mine oath? Yet, however I shall act, I
see around me but perdition."
Then he called for Bahram and Zengueh, and con-
fided to them his troubles. And he said how that Kai
Kaous was a king who knew not good from evil, and
how he had accomplished that wherefor the army went
forth, yet how the Shah desired that vengeance should
not cease. And he said—
"If I listen to the commands of the King, I do that
which is evil; yet if I listen not, surely he will destroy
Wherefore I will send back unto Afrasiyab the
men he hath placed within my hands, and then hide me
from sight."
me.
Then he sent Zengueh before Afrasiyab with a writing.
And he told therein all that was come about, and how
that discord was sprouted out of their peace. And he
recalled unto Afrasiyab how he had not broken their
treaty though Kai Kaous had bidden him do it, and he
said how he could not return unto the King his father.
SAIAWUSH.
187
Then he prayed Afrasiyab that he would make a
passage for him through his dominions, that he might
hide him wheresoever God desired. For he said-
"I seek a spot where my name shall be lost unto
Kai Kaous, and where I may not know of his woful
deeds."
And Zengueh set forth and did as Saiawush desired,
and he took with him the hundred men of Turan, and
all the gold and jewels that Afrasiyab had sent. And
when he was come within the gates Afrasiyab received
him right kindly, but when he had heard his message
he was downcast in his spirit. Then he called for
Piran, the leader of his hosts, and he took counsel with
him how he should act. And Piran said—
"O King, live for ever! There is but one road of en
unto thee. For this Prince is noble, and he hath done
that which is right, for he would not give ear unto the
evil designs of Kai Kaous, his father. Wherefore I
counsel thee, receive him within thy courts, and give
unto him a daughter in marriage, and let him be to
thee a son; for verily, when Kai Kaous shall die, he
will mount upon the throne of Iran, and thus may the
hate of old be quenched in love."
Now Afrasiyab, when he had listened to the words
of Piran, knew that they were good. So he sent for
a scribe, and dictated a writing unto Saiawush. And
he said unto him how the land was open to receive
him, and how he would be to him a father, and how
188
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
he should find in Turan the love that was denied of
Kai Kaous. And he said-
"I will demand of thee nought but what is good,
neither will I suffer suspicion against thee to enter my
soul."
Then he sealed the letter with his royal seal, and
gave it unto Zengueh the messenger, and bade him
depart therewith with speed. And Saiawush, when he
had read it, was glad, and yet he was also troubled in his
spirit, for his heart was sore because he was forced to
make a friend of the foe of his land. Yet he saw that
it could in nowise be altered. So he wrote a letter to
Kai Kaous, and he told him therein how it seemed
that he could not do that which was right in his eyes,
and he recalled unto him the troubles that were come
upon him from Sudaveh, and he said how he could not
break an oath he had made. Then he confided this
writing unto Bahram, and he bade him take the lead
of the army till that Tus should be come forth from
Iran. And when he had chosen out an hundred warriors
of renown from out the host, he departed with them
across the border.
Now when Tus arrived and learned what was come
to pass, he was confounded; and when tidings thereof
reached Kai Kaous, he was struck down with dismay.
He cried out against Afrasiyab, and against Saiawush
his son, and his anger was kindled. Yet he refrained
from combat, and his mouth was silent of war.
SAIAWUSH.
189
In the meantime Saiawush was come into Turan,
and all the land had decked itself to do him honour.
And Piran came forth to greet him, and there followed
after him elephants, white of hue, richly caparisoned,
laden with gifts. And these he poured before. Saia-
wush, and gave him welcome. And he told him how
Afrasiyab yearned to look upon his face, and he said—
"Turn thee in amity unto the King, and let not thy
mind be troubled concerning that which thou hast heard
about him. For Afrasiyab hath an ill fame, but he
deserveth it not, for he is good."
Then Piran led Saiawush before Afrasiyab. And
when Afrasiyab saw him, he rejoiced at his strength.
and his beauty, and his heart went out towards him,
and he embraced him, and spake, saying—
"The evil that hath disturbed the world is quieted,
and the lamb and the leopard can feed together, for
now is there friendship between our lands."
Then he called down blessings upon the head of
Saiawush, and he took him by the hand and seated him
beside him on the throne. And he turned to Piran,
and said-
"Kai Kaous is a man void of sense, or surely he
would not suffer a son like unto this to depart from
out his sight."
And Afrasiyab could not cease from gazing upon
Saiawush, and all that he had he placed it at his com-
mand. He gave to him a palace, and rich brocades,
190
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
and jewels and gold past the counting; and he pre-
pared for him a feast, and there were played the games
of skill, and Saiawush showed his prowess before Afra-
siyab. And the sight of Saiawush became a light
to the eyes of the King of Turan and a joy unto his
heart, and he loved him like to a father. And Saia-
wush abode within his courts many days, and in glad-
ness and in sorrow, in gaiety or in sadness, Afrasiyab
would have none other about him.
Saiawush abode ever upon his lips.
there rolled twelve moons over their
end Saiawush took unto himself to wife the daughter
of Piran the Pehliva. And yet again the heavens
revolved above his head, and he continued to abide
within the house of Afrasiyab.
Then Piran gave
And the name of
And in this wise
heads, and in the
counsel unto Saiawush that he should ask of Afrasiyab
the hand of his daughter to wife. For he said—
"Thy home is now in Turan, wherefore it behoveth
thee to establish thy might; and if Afrasiyab be thy
father indeed, there can no hurt come near to thee.
And peradventure, if a son be born unto thee of the
daughter of Afrasiyab, he will bind up for ever the
enmity of the lands."
And Saiawush listened to the counsel of Piran, for
he knew that it was good, and he asked the hand of
Ferangis of her father, and Afrasiyab gave it to him.
with great joy. Then a mighty feast was made for the
bridal, and Afrasiyab poured gifts upon Saiawush past
SAIAWUSH.
191
the telling, and he bestowed on him a kingdom and
a throne, and he blessed him as his son; and when at
length he suffered him to go forth unto his realm, he
sorrowed sore at his loss.
Now the space of one year did Saiawush abide in his
province, and at the end thereof, when he had visited its
breadth, he builded for himself a city in the midst.
And he named it Gangdis, and it was a place of beauty,
such as the world hath not seen the like. And Saiawush
built houses and planted trees without number, and he
also caused an open space to be made wherein men
could rejoice in the game of ball. And he was glad in
the possession of this city, and all men around him
rejoiced, and the earth was the happier for his presence,
and there was no cloud upon the heaven of his life. Yet
the Mubids told unto him that Gangdis would lead to
his ill-fortune, and Saiawush was afflicted thereat. But
when a little time had sped and he beheld no evil, he
put from him their words, and he rejoiced in the time
that was; and he was glad in the house of his women,
and he put his trust in Afrasiyab.
But that which is written in the stars, surely it must
be accomplished! So it came about after many years
that Gersiwaz was jealous of the love which Afrasiyab
his brother bare unto Saiawush, and of the power that
was his; and he pondered in his heart how he might
destroy him. Then he came before Afrasiyab, and
prayed the King that he would suffer him to go forth and
192
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
visit the city that Saiawush had builded, whereof the
mouths of men ran over in praises. And Afrasiyab
granted his request, and bade him bear words of love
unto Saiawush his son. So Gersiwaz sped forth unto
the city of Gangdis, and the master thereof received
him kindly, and asked him tidings of the King. And
he feasted him many days within his house, and he
showed freely unto him all that was his; and when he
departed he heaped gifts upon his head, for he knew not
that Gersiwaz came in enmity unto him, and that these
things but fanned his envy.
Now when Gersiwaz returned unto Afrasiyab, the
King questioned him concerning his darling. Then
Gersiwaz answered and said-
"O King, he is no longer the man whom thou
knewest. His spirit is uplifted in pride of might, and
his heart goeth out towards Iran. And but that I
should make my name to be infamous unto the nations,
I would have hidden from thee this grief. But it
behoveth me to tell unto thee that which I have seen
and which mine ears have heard. For it hath been
made known unto me that Saiawush is in treaty with
his father, and that they seek to destroy thee utterly."
When Afrasiyab heard these words he would not let
them take root in his spirit, yet he could not refuse
countenance to the testimony of his brother. And he
was sad, and spake not, and Gersiwaz knew not whether
the seeds he had strown had taken root. So when a
SAIAWUSH.
193
few days were gone by he came again before the
King and repeated unto him the charges that he
had made, and he urged him to act, and suffer not
Turan to be disgraced. Then Afrasiyab was caught in
the meshes of the net that Gersiwaz had spread. And
he bade Gersiwaz go forth and summon Saiawush unto
his courts, and invite him to bring the daughter of
Afrasiyab to feast with her father. And Gersiwaz sped
forth with gladness, and delivered the message of
Afrasiyab unto the young King. Then Saiawush
said-
"I am ready to do the will of Afrasiyab, and the
bridle of my horse is tied unto thy charger.'
Then Gersiwaz thought within him, "If Saiawush
come into the presence of Afrasiyab, his courage and
open spirit will give the lie unto my words."
So he feigned before Saiawush a great sorrow, and
when the King questioned him thereof he consented to
pour out before him the griefs of his spirit. And he
said to him how that he loved him tenderly, and how he
was in sorrow for his sake, because that the ear of
Afrasiyab had been poisoned against him, and he coun-
selled him that he should not seek the courts of the
King. And he said—
Suffer me to return alone, and I will soften the heart
of Afrasiyab towards thee; and when he shall be re-
turned unto a right spirit, I will summon thee forth
unto his house."
N
194
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Now Saiawush, who was true and void of guile,
listened unto these words, for he knew not that they
were false. So he sent words of greeting and of excuse
unto Afrasiyab, and he said that he could not quit the
chamber of Ferangis, for she was sick and chained unto
her couch. And Gersiwaz rode forth bearing the letter,
and he sware unto Saiawush that he would cement the
peace that was broken. But when he came unto
Afrasiyab he delivered not the writing, but spake evil
things of Saiawush, and maligned him. And he fed the
anger of Afrasiyab, until the King commanded that the
army be led forth to go against Saiawush his friend, and
he took the lead thereof himself.
Now when the men of Turan came nigh unto the city
that Saiawush had builded, Gersiwaz sent an envoy
unto Saiawush, saying—
"Flee, I counsel thee, for my words have availed
nought, and Afrasiyab cometh forth in enmity against
thee."
When Saiawush learned this he was sore downcast in
his spirit, and he went unto Ferangis and charged her
how she should act when he should be fallen by the
hands of Afrasiyab, for he held it vile to go forth in
combat with one who had been to him a father. So he
made ready his house for death. Now when he came
to his steed of battle he pressed its head unto his breast,
and he wept over it and spake into its ear. And he
said-
SAIAWUSH.
195
((
Listen, O my horse, and be brave and prudent;
neither attach thyself unto any man until the day that
Kai Khosrau, my son, shall arise to avenge me. From
him alone receive the saddle and the rein."
Then he bade the men of Iran that were about him
go back unto their land, and when all was ready he
went forth beyond the gates. But even yet he hoped
to turn from him the suspicions of Afrasiyab, and he
would not suffer his men to offer combat unto the men
of Turan. So he went before Afrasiyab, and questioned
him wherefore he was come out in anger against him.
Now Gersiwaz suffered not Afrasiyab to reply, but
heaped reproaches upon Saiawush, and said that he
had received him vilely, and that he had slandered his
benefactor. And Saiawush, when he had listened, was
confounded, and in vain did he strive to bear down the
upbraiding of his foe. For the heart of Afrasiyab was
angered yet the more, now that his eyes rested yet
again upon the face of Saiawush, whom he loved,
because he deemed that he must give credit unto the
words of his brother, and because distrust of Iran was
graven in his soul. So he hardened himself against the
speech of Saiawush, and he bade the army fall upon his
beloved. But Saiawush remembered his oath, and he
stretched not forth his hand against Afrasiyab, neither
did he defend himself from the assaults of his men, and
he bade the warriors that were with him that they
unsheathe not the sword. So speedily were they mown
196
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
down, and their bodies lay round about Saiawush their
King. And when all were slain a knight stretched out
his hand against Saiawush, yet he slew him not, but
bound him with cords, and led him before Afrasiyab
the King. And Afrasiyab commanded that Saiawush
be led forth into a desert place, and that his head be
severed from off his trunk. Now the army murmured
when they heard this command, and beheld the beauty
of Saiawush and his face of truth, and there stepped
forth one from among the nobles to plead for him. But
Gersiwaz would not suffer the heart of Afrasiyab to be
softened.
Now while Gersiwaz yet spake evil of the young
King, there came forth from the house of the women
Ferangis, the daughter of Afrasiyab, and she demanded
audience of her father. And when he would have
denied it, she forced herself into his presence, and she
pleaded for her lord, and she sware that evil tongues
had maligned him, and she entreated of her father that
he would not destroy the joy he had given to her. And
she said-
"Listen, O King! if thou destroyest Saiawush, thou
becomest a foe unto thyself. Deliver not by thy folly
the land of Turan unto the winds, and remember the
deeds that have been done of Iran in the days that are
gone by. An avenger will arise from out the midst of
the Kaianides. Mayest thou never recall my counsel
too late."
SAIAWUSH.
197
But the world grew dark before the eyes of Afrasiyab
with anger. And he spake, and said—
"Go hence, and trouble not again my face; for how
canst thou judge of that which is right?"
Then he commanded that she should be bound, and
cast into a dungeon.
Now Gersiwaz, when he beheld the anger of the
King, deemed that the time was ripe. He therefore
gave a sign unto the men that held Saiawush in bondage,
and desired that they should slay him. And by the
hairs of his head they dragged him unto a desert place,
and the sword of Gersiwaz was planted in the breast
of the royal cedar. But when it was done, and they
had severed the head from the trunk, a mighty storm.
arose over the earth, and the heavens were darkened.
Then they trembled and were sore afraid, and repented
them of their deed. And clamour arose in the house
of Saiawush, and the cries of Ferangis reached even
unto Afrasiyab her father. Then the King com-
manded that she be killed also. But Piran spake,
and said-
"Not so, wicked and foolish man. Wouldst thou
lift thine hand against thine offspring, and hast thou not
done enough that is evil? Shed not, I counsel thee,
the blood of yet another innocent. But if thou desire.
to look no more upon Ferangis, I pray thee confide her
unto me, that she may be to me a daughter in my
house, and I will guard her from sorrow."
198
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Then Afrasiyab said, "Do that which seemeth best
in thy sight."
And he was glad in his heart, for he desired not to
look upon the face that should recall to him the friend
that he had loved. So Piran took Ferangis unto his
house beyond the mountains, and Afrasiyab returned
unto his courts. But the King was sorrowful in
his spirit and unquiet in his heart, and he could not
cease from thinking of Saiawush, and he repented of
that which he had done.
THE RETURN OF KAI KHOSRAU.

Na little time it came about that there was
born unto Ferangis, in the house of Piran, a
son of the race of Saiawush. And Piran,
when he had seen the babe, goodly of mien,
who already in his cradle was like unto a
king, sware a great oath that Afrasiyab should not
destroy it. And when he went before the King to tell
unto him the tidings, he pleaded for him with his lips.
Now the heart of Afrasiyab had been softened in his
sorrow for Saiawush, wherefore he shut his ear unto the
evil counsellors that bade him destroy the babe which
should bring vengeance upon Turan. And he said-
"I repent me of mine evil deed unto Saiawush, and
though it be written that much evil shall come upon me
from this child sprung from the loins of Tur and Kai
Kobad, I will strive no more to hinder the decree of
the stars; let him, therefore, be reared unto manhood.
Yet I pray that he be brought up among shepherds in
the mountains far from the haunts of men, and that his
birth be hidden from him, that he may not learn of his
father or of the cruel things I did unto Saiawush."
And Piran consented unto the desires of Afrasiyab,
200
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
and he rejoiced because he had spared the babe. Then
he took the infant from its mother and bare it into the
mountains of Kalun, and confided the boy unto the
shepherds of the flocks. And he said-
"Guard this child even as your souls, so that neither
rain nor dust come near him."
Thus it came about that no man knew of the babe,
neither did Ferangis know whither it had vanished.
But oftentimes was Piran sore disturbed in his spirit,
for he knew that the beginning of strife was yet to
come, and that much evil must befall Turan from this
infant. Yet he forgot not his promise of protection
given unto Saiawush his friend, whom he had led to put
his trust in Afrasiyab. So he quieted his spirit from
thinking, for he knew that no man can change the
course of the stars.
Now when some time had passed the shepherds.
came out to Piran and told him how they could not
restrain this boy, whose valour was like to that of a
king. Then Piran went forth to visit Kai Khosrau, and
he was amazed when he looked upon him and beheld
his beauty and his strength, and he pressed him unto
his heart with tenderness. Then Kai Khosrau said-
"O thou that bearest high thy head, art thou not
ashamed to press unto thee the son of a shepherd?"
But Piran was inflamed with love for the boy, so he
pondered not his words, but said—
"O heir of kings, thou art not the son of a shepherd."
THE RETURN OF KAI KHOSRAU.
201
Then he told him of his birth, and clad him in robes.
befitting his station, and took him back with him unto
his house. And henceforward was Kai Khosrau reared
in the bosom of Piran and of Ferangis his mother.
And the days rolled above their heads in happiness.
Then it came about one night that Piran was
awakened by a messenger from Afrasiyab the King.
And the King bade Piran come before him. And when
he was come unto him, he said-
"My heart is disquieted because of the child of
Saiawush, and I repent me of my weakness which kept
him alive; for in my dreams I have beheld that he will
do much evil unto Turan. Wherefore I would now slay
him to avert calamity."
Then Piran, the wise in counsel, opened his mouth
before Afrasiyab and spake, saying—
"O King, disquiet not thyself because of this boy, for
he is devoid of wit; and though his face be like unto that
of a Peri, his head, which should bear a crown, is empty
of reason. Commit, therefore, no violence, but suffer
that this innocent continue to dwell among the flocks."
Afrasiyab, when he had listened to these words of
wile, was comforted; yet he said—
"Send Kai Khosrau before me, that I may behold
with mine eyes his simplicity."
And Piran assented to his request, because he ven-
tured not to gainsay it. So he returned him unto his
house and sought out the boy, and told him how he
202
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
should disguise his wit before the King. Then he led
him unto the court mounted upon a goodly charger,
and all the people shouted when they beheld his beauty
and his kingly mien. And Afrasiyab too was con-
founded at his aspect, and he gazed with wonder at his
limbs of power, and he strove to remember the promise
that he had given unto Piran that he would not hurt a
hair of the head of this boy. Then he began to ques-
tion him that he might search his spirit. And he said-
"Young shepherd, how knowest thou the day from
the night? What doest thou with thy flocks? How
countest thou thy sheep and thy goats?"
And Kai Khosrau replied-
“There is no game, and I have neither cords nor bow
and arrows."
Then the King questioned him concerning the milk
that was given of the herds. And Kai Khosrau said-
“The tiger-cats are dangerous and have mighty claws."
Then Afrasiyab put to him yet a third question, and
he asked of him-
What is the name of thy mother?"
And Kai Khosrau answered and said-
"The dog ventureth not to bark when a lion threat-
eneth him."
Then Afrasiyab asked him yet again whether he
desired to go forth into the land of Iran and be avenged
upon his enemies. And Kai Khosrau answered and
said-
THE RETURN OF KAI KHOSRAU.
203
"When a leopard appeareth, the heart of a brave man
is torn with fear."
And Afrasiyab smiled at these answers and ques-
tioned him no further. And he said unto Piran-
"Restore the boy unto his mother, and let him be
reared with kindness in the city that Saiawush hath
builded, for I behold that from him can no harm alight
upon Turan."
When Piran heard these words he hastened to remove
Kai Khosrau from the Court, and his heart was glad
because of the danger that had passed by. So Kai
Khosrau was reared in the house of his father, and
Ferangis spake unto him of Saiawush and of the ven-
geance that was due. And she instructed him concern-
ing the heroes of Iran and their deeds of prowess, as
she had learned them from Saiawush her lord.
In the mean season Kai Kaous had learned of the
death of Saiawush his son, and a mighty wailing went
forth throughout the land of Iran, so that even the
nightingale in the cypress was silent of her song, and
the leaves of the pomegranate tree in the forest were
withered for sorrow. And the heroes that stood about
the throne of Kai Kaous clad themselves in the garb
of woe, and bare dust upon their heads in place
of helmets. And Rustem, when he learned of it, was
bowed to the earth with agony, and for seven days he
stirred not from the ground, neither would he let food
or comfort come near him. But on the eighth he
204
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
2
roused him from the earth, and caused the trumpets
of brass to be sounded into the air. And he assembled
his warriors, and marched with them into Iran, and he
came before Kai Kaous and demanded audience.
Now when he was come into the presence chamber
he found the Shah seated upon his throne. He was
clothed in dust from his head unto his feet, because
of his grief. But Rustem regarded it not, and straight-
way reproached him, and said—
"O King of evil nature, behold the harvest that is
sprung from the seed that thou didst sow! The love
of Sudaveh and her vile intents have torn from off thy
head the diadem of kings, and Iran hath suffered cruel
loss because of thy folly and thy suspicions. It is
better for a king that he be laid within his shroud than
that he be given over to the dominion of a woman.
Alas for Saiawush! Was ever hero like unto him?
And henceforward I will know neither rest nor joy until
his cruel death be avenged."
When Kai Kaous had listened to the words of his
Pehliva, the colour of shame mounted into his cheek,
but he held his peace, for he knew that the words
spoken of Rustem were deserved. Then Rustem, when
he saw that the King answered him not, strode out
from his presence. And he went into the house of the
women, and sought for Sudaveh, who had given over
Saiawush unto death. And when he had found her, he
tore her from off her throne, and he plunged his dagger
THE RETURN OF KAI KHOSRAU.
205
into her heart, and he quitted her not until the life was
gone from her. And Kai Kaous, when he learned it,
trembled and was afraid, for he dared not oppose him-
self unto Rustem. Then Rustem commanded that the
army of vengeance be made ready. And he said—
"I will make the earth to tremble before my mace,
as it shall tremble on the day of judgment."
And when all was prepared they made them haste
to be gone, and the air was full of the gleaming of
armour, and the rattling of drums was heard on all
sides.
Now when Afrasiyab learned that a great army was.
come forth from Iran to avenge the death of Saia-
wush, he bade Sarkha, the best beloved of his sons,
lead forth the hosts of Turan against them. But he
craved Sarkha have a care that Rustem, the son of Zal,
put not his life in danger. And Sarkha set forth,
bearing aloft the black banner of Turan, and he went
towards the plains where Rustem was encamped. Now
when the armies beheld one another, their hearts were
inflamed, and the battle raged sore, and many were
the brave heads laid low on that day. And Sarkha
fell into the hands of Rustem, and he spared him not,
because he was the best beloved son of Afrasiyab. So
he gave orders that Sarkha be slain, even as Saiawush
was slain, that the heart of his enemy might be rent with
anguish.
•
And when Afrasiyab learned it he was beside him-
206
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
self with grief. And when he had torn his hair and
wailed in the dust for his son, he arose to go forth
unto the army, that he might avenge his death. And
he said unto his knights—
"Henceforth ye must not think of sleep or hunger,
neither must ye breathe aught but vengeance, for I will
never stay my hand until this murder be avenged."
Now when the army that was with Afrasiyab came.
nigh unto Rustem, Pilsam, that was brother to Piran, a
warrior valiant and true, challenged Rustem unto
single combat. Then Piran sought to stay him because
of his youth, but Pilsam listened not unto his counsel.
So Rustem came forth against him, and he was armed
with a stout lance, and he was wrapped about with his
anger. And he fell upon Pilsam with fury, and he
lifted him from his saddle, and he took him by the
girdle and flung him, as a thing that is vile, into the
midst of the camp of the Turanians. Then he shouted
with a voice of thunder-
"I counsel you, wrap ye this man in robes of gold,
for my mace hath made him blue."
Now when the Turanians beheld that Pilsam was
dead, they wept sore, and their courage departed from
out of them. And in vain did Afrasiyab pray them to
keep their hearts. Yet he said within himself-
"The good fortune that watched over me is asleep."
And when they were met in battle yet again, and the
army of Rustem had beaten down once more that of
THE RETURN OF KAI KHOSRAU.
207
Afrasiyab, the King bethought him of flight. And the
hosts of Turan vanished like to the wind, but they left
behind them much riches and goodly treasure.
Now while they were flying from the face of Rustem,
Afrasiyab said unto Piran-
"Counsel me how I shall act concerning this child of
Saiawush."
And Piran said, "Haste not to put him to death, for
he shall in nowise do thee hurt. But if thou wilt listen
unto my voice, send him far into Khoten, that he be
hidden from sight, and that the men of Iran learn not
of his being."
And Afrasiyab did as Piran counselled, and a mes-
senger was sent forth to lead out the young King and
his mother unto the land of Cathay. And Afrasiyab
himself fled until that he came within the borders of
China, and no man knew where he was hidden. And
the land of Turan was given over to plunder, and the
Iranians scathed it with fire and sword because of Saia-
wush, whom Afrasiyab had foully slain. And Rustem
seated himself in the seat of Afrasiyab, and for the
space of seven years did he rule over the land. But in
the eighth messengers came out to him, and said how
that Kai Kaous was without a guide in Iran, and how
they feared lest folly might result from his deeds. So
Rustem went forth to stand beside his Shah.
Now when Afrasiyab learned that Rustem had de-
parted out of the land of Turan, his fears forsook him,
208
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
and he gathered together a mighty army, and he fell
upon his borders, and he regained them unto himself.
And he wept when he beheld the havoc that was come
upon Turan, and he incited his army to be avenged.
So they fell into Iran, and shattered its host, and they
suffered not that repose come near unto their foes.
And they pursued them with fire and sword, and laid
waste their fields. And during seven years the heavens
withheld their rains, and good fortune was turned away.
from Iran, and the prosperity of the land was quenched.
And men groaned sore under these misfortunes, neither
did Rustem come forth from Zaboulistan unto their aid.
Then it came about one night that Gudarz, who was
descended from Kawah the smith, dreamed a dream.
He beheld a cloud heavy with rain, and on the
cloud was seated the Serosch the blessed. And the
angel of God said unto Gudarz—
((
Open thine ears, if thou wilt deliver thy land from
anguish, and from Afrasiyab the Turk. There abideth
in Turan the son of a noble race, an issue sprung from
the loins of Saiawush, who is brave, and beareth high
his head. And he is sprung from Kai Kobad and
from Tur, and from him alone can deliverance come
to Iran. Suffer, therefore, that Gew, thy son, go forth
in search of Kai Khosrau, and bid him remain in his
saddle until he shall have found this boy. For such is
the will of Ormuzd."
When Gudarz awoke, he thanked God for his dream,
THE RETURN OF KAI KHOSRAU.
209
and touched the ground with his white beard. And
when the sun was risen and had chased away the ravens
of night, he called before him his son, and he spake to
him of his dream. And he commanded him that he
go forth to do the behests of God.
And Gew said, "I will obey thine orders while I
live."
Then Gudarz said, "What companions wilt thou
take with thee?"
And Gew said, "My cord and my horse will suffice
unto me for company, for it is best to take none with
me into Turan. For behold, if I lead out an host, men
will ask what I am, and wherefore I come forth; but if
I go alone, their doubts will slumber."
Then Gudarz said, "Go, and peace be upon thee."
So Gew made ready his steed, and when he had
bidden farewell unto the old man his father, he set out
upon his travels. And wherever he met a man walking
alone, he questioned him concerning Kai Khosrau; and
if the man knew not the name, he struck off his head,
that none might learn his secret or wherefore he was
come forth.
Now Gew wandered thus many days throughout the
length of Turan, like to a man distraught, and he could.
learn nought concerning Kai Khosrau, the young king.
And seven years rolled thus above his head, and he
grew lean and sorrowful. And for house he had nought
save only his saddle, and for nourishment and clothing
О
210
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
the flesh and skin of the wild ass, and in place of wine
he had only bad water. And he began to be downcast
in his spirit, and afraid lest the dream dreamed of his
father had been sent unto him by a Deev. Now it
came about one day that while he pondered thus he
entered a forest, and when he was come into its
midst, he beheld therein a fountain, and a young man,
slim as a cypress, seated beside it. And the youth
held in his hand a wine cup, and on his head was a
crown of flowers, and his mien was such that the soul
of Gew rejoiced thereat, and the door of his cares was
loosened. And he said within himself—
"If this be not the King, then must I abandon my
search, for I think to behold in him the face of Saia-
wush."
Then he went nigh unto him.
Now when Kai Khosrau beheld the warrior, he
smiled and said-
"O Gew, thou art welcome unto my sight, since
thou art come hither at the behest of God. Tell unto
me now, I pray thee, tidings of Tus and Gudarz, of
Rustem, and of Kai Kaous the King. Are they happy?
Do they know of Kai Khosrau ?"
When Gew heard this speech, he was confounded;
and when he had returned thanks unto God, he opened
his mouth and spake, saying-
"O young King, who bearest high thy head, reveal
unto me who hath told thee of Gudarz and of Tus, of
THE RETURN OF KAI KHOSRAU.
211
Rustem and of Kai Kaous, and how knowest thou my
name and aspect?"
Then Kai Khosrau said, "My mother hath told me
of the things which she learned of my father. For I
am son unto Saiawush, and before he entered upon
death he foretold unto Ferangis how Gew would come
forth from Iran to lead me unto the throne."
Then Gew said, "Prove unto me thy words. Suffer
that mine eyes behold the mark of the Kaianides which
thou bearest about thy body."
Then Kai Khosrau uncovered his arm, and when Gew
looked upon the mark that was borne of all the royal
house since the time of Kai Kobad, he fell down upon
the ground and did homage before this youth. But
Kai Khosrau raised him from the dust and embraced
him, and questioned him concerning his journey and the
hardships he had passed through. Then Gew mounted
the young King upon his charger, and he walked before
him bearing an Indian sword unsheathed in his hand.
And they journeyed until they came to the city that
Saiawush had builded.
Now when Ferangis saw them she received them
joyfully, for her quick spirit divined what was come
to pass. But she counselled them to tarry not in what-
soever they would do. For she said-
When Afrasiyab shall learn of this he will neither eat
nor sleep, he will send out an army against us.
Let us
flee, therefore, before he cometh. And listen now unto
212
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
the words that I shall speak. Go forth unto the moun-
tain that is raised unto the clouds, and take with thee a
saddle and a bridle. And when thou shalt have scaled
its crest thou wilt behold a meadow green as a paradise,
and browsing upon it the flocks of Saiawush. And in their
midst will be Behzah the steed of battle. Go nigh unto
him, my son, and embrace him, and whisper thy name
into his ear; and when he shall have heard it he will
suffer thee to mount him, and seated upon him thou
shalt escape from the slayer of thy father."
Then Gew and Kai Khosrau went out and did as
Ferangis told unto them; and they found the steed, and
when Behzah beheld the saddle of Saiawush and the
leopard skin that he had worn, he sighed, and his eyes
were filled with tears. Then he suffered Kai Khosrau to
mount him, and they turned back unto Ferangis. And
she chose forth the armour of Saiawush from among her
treasures and gave it to her son, and she clad herself in
mail of Roum like unto a warrior, and she sprang upon
a horse of battle, and when all was done they set forth
to fly from the land of Afrasiyab.
Now one brought tidings unto Piran of these things,
and he was dismayed thereat, for he said-
"Now will be accomplished the fears of Afrasiyab,
and mine honour will be tarnished in his eyes."
So he bade Kelbad and three hundred valiant knights
pursue Kai Khosrau and bind him and bring him back
in chains.
THE RETURN OF KAI KHOSRAU.
213
Now Ferangis and her son slept for weariness by the
roadside, but Gew held guard over them. And when
he beheld Kelbad and the men that were with him, he
knew that they were come in pursuit; yet he awakened
not Kai Khosrau, but of his strength alone put them to
flight. But when they were gone he roused the sleepers,
and he urged haste upon them.
But Piran, when he beheld that Kelbad returned unto
him defeated at the hand of one man, was loth to credit
it, and he was angered against him, and said that he
would go forth himself. So Piran made him ready, and a
thousand brave warriors went with him. For Piran was
afraid of the anger of Afrasiyab, and that he would put
this flight unto his account, and not unto that of the
rotation of the stars. Now when he was come unto the
fugitives Gew and the young King slumbered, but
Ferangis was keeping watch. And when she beheld the
army she woke them and bade them prepare for combat;
but Gew suffered not that Kai Khosrau should go forth,
for he said-
"If I fall, what mattereth that? my father hath seventy
and eight sons like unto me; but thou art alone, and if
thy head shall fall, what other is worthy of the crown?"
And Kai Khosrau did as Gew desired. Then Gew
gave combat unto Piran, and by his courage he over-
came the army; and he caught the old man Piran in
the meshes of his cord. Then he brought him bound
before Ferangis and Kai Khosrau her son.
214
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Now Piran, when he beheld Kai Khosrau, demanded
not mercy at his hands, but invoked the blessings of
Heaven upon his head, and he mourned the fate of
Saiawush. And he said—
"O King, had thy slave been nigh unto Afrasiyab,
surely the head of thy father would not have fallen at
his hands. And it was I who preserved thee and
Ferangis thy mother, yet now is it given unto me to fall
under thy hands.”
When Kai Khosrau heard these words his heart went
out unto Piran, and when he looked towards his mother
he saw that her eyes were filled with tears. Then she
opened her mouth and poured forth curses upon
Afrasiyab her father, and she wailed the fate of Saia-
wush, and she pleaded for the life of this good old man.
For she said-
His tenderness hath been an asylum unto our sorrow,
and now is it given unto us to remember the benefits we
have received at his hands."
But Gew, when he heard it, said-
"O Queen, I pray thee speak not thus, for I have
sworn a great oath that I would stain the earth with
the blood of Piran, and how can I depart from my
Vow?"
Then Kai Khosrau said, "O hero like unto a lion,
thou shalt not break the oath that thou hast made
before God. Satisfy thy heart and accomplish thy
Pierce with thy dagger the ear of Piran, and let
VOW.
THE RETURN OF KAI KHOSRAU.
215
his blood fall on the earth, that thy vengeance and my
clemency may both be satisfied.”
Then Gew did as Kai Khosrau bade, and when he
had crimsoned the earth with the blood of Piran, they
mounted him upon a charger fleet of foot and bound
him thereon, and caused him to swear unto them that
none other but Gulshehr his wife should release him
from these bonds. And Piran sware it and went forth,
and his mouth poured blessings upon Kai Khosrau.
Now while these things were passing Afrasiyab grew
impatient, and set forth himself at the head of a great
army that he might learn tidings of Kai Khosrau. And
when he heard that the armies had been beaten at the
hand of one man, his cheeks grew pale with fear; but
when he met Piran his Pehliva tied upon his charger,
his anger knew no bounds, so that he cried aloud, and
commanded unto Piran that he depart from out his
presence.
Then he sware that he would himself destroy
this Gew, and lay low the head of Kai Khosrau and of
his mother. And he made great haste after them, and
he urged upon his men that they must find Kai Khosrau
before he should have crossed the Jihun and have
entered upon the land of Iran; yet before ever he
was come nigh to them, the three were come unto its
banks.
Now a boat was lying ready, and a boatman slum-
bered beside it; and Gew roused him, and said that he
should bear them across the river. But the man was
+
216
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
greedy of gain, and beheld that Gew was in haste.
So he said-
"Why should I carry thee across? Yet, if thou
desire it, I demand that thou give unto me one of four
things: thy coat of mail, or thy black horse, yon
woman, or the crown of gold worn by this young
man."
Then Gew was angry, and said—
"Thou speakest like a fool; thou knowest not what
thou dost ask."
Then he turned unto Kai Khosrau, and said—
"If thou be Kai Khosrau indeed, thou wilt not fear to
enter this river and cross it, even as it was crossed by
Feridoun thy sire.”
Now the river was swollen with the rains, but the
young King regarded it not. He entered upon its surge
with Behzah his steed, and the horse of his father bare
him across the boiling waters. And Ferangis followed
after him and Gew the bold. And when Kai Khosrau
was come unto the other side, he dismounted and knelt
and kissed the ground of Iran, and gave thanks unto
God the mighty.
Yet scarce were they come to the other side than
Afrasiyab came up with his army. And Afrasiyab
demanded of the boatman wherefore he had borne them
across, and when the man told him how it was come
to pass, the King was bowed down with anguish, for he
knew now that that which was written would be accom-
THE RETURN OF KAI KHOSRAU.
217
plished. So he returned him right sorrowful unto his
house.
Now when Kai Khosrau came nigh unto the courts
of the Shah, Gew sent a writing unto Kai Kaous and
told him all that was come to pass. And Kai Kaous
sent forth riders to lead before him his son; and the
city was decked to give him welcome, and all the nobles,
received him joyfully, and Kai Kaous was glad at the
sight of him, and all men regarded Kai Khosrau as the
heir, and only Tus was sorrowful at that which was come
to pass. But Tus was angered, and said that he would
pay homage only unto Friburz, and to none other.
And he came before Kai Kaous and said-
Friburz is thy son also, why therefore wilt thou give
the crown unto one who is sprung from the race of
Afrasiyab?"
Then Gew said, "It is fitting that the son of Saia-
wush should succeed unto the throne."
But Tus listened not, and refused allegiance unto Kai
Khosrau, and there was strife among the nobles of Iran.
Then one came before Kai Kaous and begged of him
that he would declare himself, for he said—
'If we are divided among ourselves we shall fall a
prey into the hands of Afrasiyab. Let the Shah, there-
fore, bind up this quarrel."
Then Kai Kaous said, “Ye ask of me that which is
hard, for both my sons are dear unto me, and how
should I choose between them? Yet I will bethink me
218
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
of a means to quiet this dissension. Let Kai Khosrau
and Friburz go forth unto Bahman, the fortress that is
upon my borders which no man hath conquered, for it is
an abode of Deevs, and fire issueth thence continually.
And let them take with them an army, and I will
bestow my crown and my treasures upon him at whose
hands the castle shall be subdued."
So Friburz and Kai Khosrau set forth, and Kai
Khosrau suffered that his elder take the lead. But in
vain did Friburz strive against the Deevs that were hidden
behind the walls, and when seven days had passed he
returned discomfited from his emprise. Then Kai
Khosrau set forth, and he wrote a letter, amber-per-
fumed, and in it he desired the evil Deevs that they give
place unto him in the name of Ormuzd. And he affixed
the letter unto the point of his lance, and when he was
come nigh unto the burning fort he flung it beyond the
walls. Then a great noise rent the air like thunder,
and the world became darkened, and when the light
returned unto the sky the castle was vanished from off
the face of the earth.
Now when Kai Kaous heard it, he knew that the son
of Saiawush was learned in the arts of magic, as was
fitting unto a king; and he beheld also that he was wise.
and brave. And because that he was weary he sur-
rendered the throne unto him, and Kai Khosrau wore the
crown of the Kaianides in his stead.
FIROUD.

UT a little while had Kai Khosrau sat
upon the throne of Iran, yet the world
resounded with his fame, and all men
bare upon their lips the praises of his
wisdom. He cleansed the earth of the
rust of care, and the power of Afrasiyab was chained up.
And men from all parts of the earth came forth to do
homage before him; and Rustem also, and Zal the
aged, did obeisance at his footstool. And there came
with them an army that made the plains black like to
ebony, and the sounds of their war trumpets made the
heart to tremble. Then Kai Kaous made ready a great
feast to do honour to his Pehliva. And when they were
seated thereat his mouth ran over with praises of Saia-
wush, and he lamented the evil that he had done, and
he poured maledictions upon the head of Afrasiyab.
And he spake unto Kai Khosrau his son, and said—
"I demand of thee that thou swear before me a great
oath, and that thou keep it carefully. Swear unto me
that thy heart shall be ever filled with hatred of
Afrasiyab, and that thou wilt not let this flame be
220
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
quenched by the waters of forgetfulness, and that thou
regard him not as the father of thy mother, and that
thou think only of Saiawush thy sire, whom he hath
slain. And swear unto me further that there shall be
no other mediator between you save only the sword and
the mace."
Then Kai Khosrau turned him toward the fire and
sware the oath demanded of his sire, and he vowed to
keep it in the name of God the Most High. And Kai
Kaous caused the oath to be written on a royal scroll,
and he confided it to the care of Rustem his Pehliva.
And when it was done they feasted seven days without
ceasing, but on the eighth Kai Khosrau mounted
his throne. Then he called about him his nobles,
and he said unto them that the time was ripe to avenge
the death of his father, and he bade them make ready
their armies, and he told them how on a certain day
they should lead them out before him.
Now when the day was come Kai Khosrau descended
into the plains to receive them. And he was seated
upon an elephant of war, and on his head he wore the
crown of might, and about his neck the chain of supre-
macy; and in his hand he bare a mace of might, and
on his arms were bracelets of great worth, and precious
stones were strewn about his garments. Now when he
was come into the midst of the camp he threw a ball of
silver into a cup of gold. And when the army heard
the sound thereof they knew it to be the signal, and
·
FIROUD.
221
they arose and passed before the Shah. And the
first to come forth was the army of Friburz. And
Friburz was seated upon a horse of saffron hue, and he
wore shoes of gold upon his feet, and in his hands were
a sword and a mace; and around his saddle was rolled
a cord of might, and over his head floated a banner the
colour of the sun. And Kai Khosrau, when he saw him,
invoked blessings upon his head. And there came after
Friburz Gudarz the wise in counsel, and behind him.
was borne a standard whereon was broidered a lion.
And at his right hand and his left marched his mighty
sons, and a brave army followed after them. And
they did homage before the Shah, and Kai Khosrau
regarded them kindly. Then there came after them
yet many other noble knights, eager for battle as a bull
whom no man hath put to flight, and the sounds of
cymbals and the bells of war elephants filled the air,
and lances and targets gleamed in the sun, and banners
of many hues streamed upon the breeze. And Kai
Khosrau blessed his heroes every one. Then he caused
his treasurer to bring forth rich gifts of gold and jewels
and slaves, and brocades of Roum, and cloth of gold,
and skins of beaver. And they placed them before
him, and he divided them into portions, and he said
they should be owned of those who should do feats of
valour in the war against Afrasiyab. Then he bade
them to a great feast, and they made merry in the
house of the Shah.
222
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
But when the sun had unsheathed its sword of light
and the sombre night was fled in fear, Kai Khosrau
commanded that the trumpets of departure sound.
Then the army came before the Shah, and he gave
into the keeping of Tus the standard of Kawah, and
he bade him lead forth the hosts. And he said unto
Tus-
Be obedient unto my will and lead mine army aright.
I desire of thee that thou avenge the death of my father,
but I desire also that thou molest none but those that
fight. Have mercy upon the labourer and spare the help-
less. And furthermore, I charge thee that thou pass
not through the land of Kelat, but that thou leave it on
one side and take thy course through the desert. For
in Kelat abideth my brother, who was born of the
daughter of Piran, and he dwelleth in happiness, and I
would not that sorrow come nigh unto him. And he
knoweth no man in Iran, not even by name, and unto
no man hath he done hurt, and I desire that no harm
come to him."
And Tus said, "I will remember thy will and take
the road that thou commandest."
Then the army set forth towards Turan, and they
marched many days until they came to a spot where
the roads parted. And the one led unto the desert, arid
and devoid of water, and the other led unto Kelat.
Now when they were come to the parting of the roads
the army halted until Tus should have told unto them
FIROUD.
223
which road they should follow. And when Tus came
up he said unto Gudarz—
"The desert is void of water, and what shall we do
deprived thereof, for the army sore needeth refreshment
after its march of weariness? It is better, therefore,
that we should take the road that leadeth to Kelat, and
abide there a while that our men may be rested."
And Gudarz said, "The King hath set thee at the
head of his army, but I counsel thee choose the path
that he hath named, lest sorrow come upon thee.”
But Tus laughed, and said, "O noble hero, disquiet
not thyself, for what I do is pleasing in the sight of the
King."
Then he commanded the army that they march into
Kelat, and he remembered not the desires of Kai
Khosrau.
Now when Firoud saw that the sky was darkened
with dust from the feet of dromedaries and elephants of
battle, he called before him Tokhareh his counsellor,
and questioned him concerning these things. And
Tokhareh said—
"O young man, thou knowest not what is come to
pass. This army pertaineth unto thy brother, and he
hath sent it forth into Turan that the death of thy
father be avenged; and it marcheth right upon Kelat,
and I know not where the battle may take place."
Now Firoud, who was void of experience, was
troubled when he learned this; and he made safe his
224
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
castle that was upon a high hill, and he gathered in his
flocks. Then he seated himself upon the ramparts and
looked down over the sea of armour that approached
him. And when he had done so he went in before his
mother, who had never ceased from weeping for Saia-
wush her spouse.
And he told her what was come
about, and he asked of her how he should act. Then
she said unto him-
"Listen, O my son! There is a new Shah in Iran,
and he is brother unto thee, for ye are sprung from one
father. Now, since thy brother sendeth forth an host
to avenge his murder, it beseemeth thee not to remain
aloof, but rather shouldst thou serve as vanguard unto
the host. Wherefore call together thy knights, and
then go forth and seek out the leader of this host, and
make thyself known to him. For it behoveth not a
stranger to reap this glory or usurp the place that is
due unto thy rank."
Then Firoud said, "Who shall be my stay in battle
among the heroes who carry high their heads."
And his mother said, "Seek out Bahram, for he was
a friend unto thy father. And listen also to the words of
Tokhareh, and go not out at once with thine army until
thou hast made thyself known unto the men of Iran."
Then Firoud said, “O my mother, I will faithfully
observe thy counsel."
And he went forth unto a high place on the moun-
tain, and he took with him Tokhareh, and they looked
FIROUD.
225
down upon the mighty army that was spread at their
feet. Then Firoud questioned of the warriors, and
Tokhareh answered him according to his knowledge,
And he counted up the standards of the heroes, and
he made Firoud acquainted with the names of might
in Iran.
Now, while they were so doing, Tus beheld them
upon the heights, and he was angered at the sight of
them, and said-
Let a wary knight go forth unto those two seated
aloft, and search out what manner of men they be.
And if they be of the army, let them be lashed two
hundred times about the head; but if they be Turks
and spies, bind them, and bring them before me that
I may destroy them."
Then Bahram, the son of Gudarz, said, "I will search
into this matter."
And he rode forth towards the mountain. Now
Firoud, beholding him, said unto Tokhareh, "Who is
he that cometh out with so haughty an air? By his
bearing, it would seem that he holdeth me of light
esteem, and that he would mount hither by force."
Then Tokhareh said, "O Prince, be not angered
thus easily. I know not his name, but I seem to
behold the device of Gudarz, and perchance this is one
of his sons."
Now Bahram, when he had neared the summit, lifted up
his voice, that was like unto thunder, and cried, saying—
P
£
226
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
"Who art thou that seatest thyself upon the heights
and lookest down upon the army? Fearest thou not
Tus the Pehliva?"
Then Firoud answered and said-
(C
Speak not unto me thus haughtily, for I have given
thee no cause. Thinkest thou, perchance, that I am
but a wild ass of the desert, and that thou art a lion,
great of might. It behoveth a man of sense to put
a bridle on his tongue. For I say unto thee, that thou
art in nowise my better, neither in courage nor in might.
Look upon me, and judge whether I have not head
and heart and brain, and when thou shalt have seen
that I possess them, threaten me not with empty words.
I counsel this unto thee in friendship. And if thou
wilt listen to reason, I will put some questions unto
thee."
Then Bahram replied, "Speak; thou art in the sky,
and I am on the ground."
Then Firoud asked of him who were the chiefs of
this army, and wherefore they were come forth. And
Bahram named unto him the names of might. Then
Firoud said unto him-
"Why hast thou not spoken the name of Bahram ?
There is none among all the host of Iran that mine
eyes would rather look upon."
Then Bahram said, "O youth, say unto me who hath
spoken unto thee thus of Bahram, and who hath made
thee acquainted with Gudarz and Gew."
FIROUD.
227
Then Firoud said, "My mother hath made them.
known unto me, and she bade me seek out Bahram
from among this host, because that he was foster-
brother unto my father."
Then Bahram spake, and said, "Verily thou art
Firoud, of the seed of Saiawush."
And Firoud answered, "Thou hast said.
"Thou hast said. I am a
branch of the cypress that was struck down."
Then Bahram said, "Uncover thine arm, that I may
behold the mark of the Kaianides."
And Firoud did so, and Bahram beheld the mark.
Then he knew that Firoud was of the race of Kai
Kobad, and he did homage before him, and he drew
nigh unto him on the mountain. Then Firoud laid
bare before Bahram his desires, and he said how that
he would make a great feast unto the army in his
house, and how, when this was done, he desired to take
the lead and march with it into Turan, and he craved
Bahram to bear his words of greeting unto Tus. And
Bahram said—
"O Prince, brave and young, I will bear thy message
unto Tus, and I will implore of him that he listen to
thy voice. Yet because he is a man easily angered,
I fear the answer he may return. For though he be
valiant, yet is he also vain, and he cannot forget that he
is sprung from the race of the Kaianides, and he deemeth
ever that the first place pertaineth unto him."
Then Bahram told Firoud wherefore he had been
228
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
sent forth by Tus, and he departed from him, say-
ing—
"If Tus hearken unto my voice, I will return unto
thee; but if thou beholdest another, confide not thyself
to him."
Then he departed, and came before Tus, and related
to him all that he had heard. And Tus was beside
himself with anger, and he cried out against this young
man, and questioned wherefore he would usurp his
place. And he upbraided Bahram for that which he
had done, and he refused to give credit unto his words,
and he sware that he would cause this youth to perish.
And he called upon his warriors, and bade them go
forth and sever the head of this Turk. But Bahram
said unto them-
"Ye know not that he sendeth you forth against
Firoud, who is brother unto Kai Khosrau, and sprung
from the seed of Saiawush. I counsel you have the
fear of the Shah before your eyes, and lift not your
hands in injustice against his brother."
When the warriors heard these words, they retreated
back into the tents. But Tus was angered exceedingly,
and he commanded yet again that one should go forth
to do his behests. Then Rivniz, who was husband unto
the daughter of Tus, said that he would do his desires.
So he rode forth unto the mountain.
Now when Firoud beheld a horseman, who brandished
aloft his sword in enmity, he said unto Tokhareh-
FIROUD.
229
"Tus despiseth my words, and since Bahram cométh
not back, my heart is disquieted. Look, I pray
thee, if thou canst tell unto me what noble this may
be?"
And Tokhareh said, "It is Rivniz, a knight of great
cunning, son unto Tus, whose daughter he hath in mar-
riage."
Then Firoud asked, saying, "Since he attacketh me,
whom shall I slay-the steed or its rider?”
And Tokhareh said, "Direct thine arms against the
man, then perchance, when Tus shall learn of his death,
he will repent him that he listened not unto thy words
of peace."
So Firoud bent his bow and shot Rivniz through the
breast. And he fell dead from off his saddle, and his
horse turned him back in terror unto the camp. Now
when Tus beheld the horse that was come back without
its rider, he knew what was come to pass, and his anger
against Firoud burned yet the more. So he called
unto him Zerasp his son, and bade him go forth and
avenge the blood of Rivniz. And when Firoud saw
him approach, he asked yet again the name of his foe,
and he prepared his bow, that Tus might learn that
he was a man that should not be treated with dis-
honour. And when Zerasp would have fought with
him, he pinned him dead unto his saddle. And the
horse sped back with him into the camp, so that Tus
saw that which was come about. Then his fury knew
230
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
no limit, and he sprang upon his charger, and he set
forth himself against Firoud.
Now when Tokhareh beheld it, he said unto Firoud—
"Tus himself is come forth to combat thee, and
thou canst not stand against this crocodile. Retreat,
therefore, I counsel thee, into thy castle, and let us
await the decrees of the stars."
But Firoud answered in anger, "Who is Tus, that I
should fear him? I will not flee from his presence."
Then Tokhareh said, "If thou be resolved to do
battle with this lion, I counsel thee that thou destroy
him not, lest thy brother be angered if the leader of his
host perish by thy hand. Moreover, the army will come
forth to avenge him, and how canst thou stand against
an host? Direct thine arrows, therefore, against his
charger, for a prince fighteth not on foot. If, therefore,
thou kill his horse from under him, thou wilt have
shown unto him thy skill."
Then Firoud did as Tokhareh counselled, and the
arrow was faithful to its aim, and he shot the horse of
Tus from under him, and laid the charger low upon the
ground. And Tus had to turn him back on foot unto
his camp, and rage against Firoud burned in his spirit.
And the nobles, when they beheld their Pehliva treated
thus with contempt, were angry also, and Gew said-
"Who is this young man, that he despiseth an army,
and how may he treat us with disdain? Though he be
of the race of the Kaianides, and of the seed of Kai
FIROUD.
231
Kobad, he hath opened a door, and knoweth not whither
it leadeth."
And as he spake he girded his armour about him,
and made him ready to go out against Firoud.
Now when Firoud beheld him he sighed, and said,
"This army is valiant, but it cannot distinguish good
from evil. I fear me that by them will Saiawush not
be avenged, for their leader is devoid of sense. Else
could he not persist in enmity against me. Tell me
now, I pray, who this new foe may be?”
Then Tokhareh said, "It is Gew, the son of Gudarz,
a knight of great renown, before whom even the lion
trembleth unto his marrow. And he led forth thy
brother into Iran, and he is girt with the armour of
Saiawush, that no man can pierce with an arrow. Direct
thy bow, therefore, yet again unto the charger, or thy
strife will be vain."
And Firoud the brave did as Tokhareh said, and he
sent forth his arrow, and the horse of Gew sank unto
the earth. Now all the nobles rejoiced when Gew
returned unto them in safety; but Byzun, his son, was
wroth, and he upbraided his father, and he said—
"O thou who fearest not an army, how canst thou
turn thee back before a single knight?"
Then he sware a great oath that he would not quit the
saddle until the blood of Rivniz and of Zerasp should be
avenged.
Now Gew was afraid for his son, who was young,
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
and would have restrained him. But Byzun suffered
it not, and when his father saw that he was resolved,
he gave unto him the armour of Saiawush, and sent
him forth unto the mountain.
Now when Firoud saw that yet another was come
out against him, he questioned Tokhareh again of his
name. And Tokhareh said—
"It is a youth who hath not his like in Iran. Byzun
is he called, and he is only son unto Gew the brave.
And because that he is clad in the armour of Saiawush,
thy father, strike at his horse, or thy bow will avail thee
nought."
So Firoud shot his arrows at the horse, and he laid
it low, as he had done the others.
Then Byzun
cried, saying-
"O young man, who aimest thus surely, thou shalt
behold how warriors fight on foot.”
And he ran up the side of the mountain, that he
might come near unto Firoud. But Firoud turned and
entered in upon his gates, and he rained down stones
from his walls upon the head of his adversary. Then
Byzun taunted him, and said-
"O hero of renown, thou fliest before a man on
foot, thou who art brave. Alas! whither is vanished
thy courage?"
Then he returned unto the camp, and told unto Tus
how that this scion of the Kaianides was filled with
valour, and how his bow was sure, and he said that he
FIROUD.
233
feared no man could stand against him. But Tus said,
"I will raze unto the dust his castle, I will destroy this
Turk, and avenge the blood that he hath spilled."
Now when the brilliant sun was vanished and the
black night had invaded the earth with her army of
stars, Firoud caused his castle to be strengthened. And
while he did so, his mother dreamed a dream of evil
portent, and she came forth weeping before her son.
And she spake, saying-
"O my son, the stars are evil disposed towards us,
and I am afraid for thee.”
Then Firoud answered her, saying, "Woe unto thee,
my mother, for I know it is not given unto thee to
cease from shedding tears of sorrow. For verily I
shall perish like unto my father, in the flower of my
youth. Yet will I not crave mercy of these Iranians.”
And he bade her go back unto the chamber of the
women, and pray God for his soul.
Now when the sun returned and lifted his glorious
face above the vault of heaven, there was heard the
sound of armour on all sides, and Firoud beheld that
the host of Iran was come forth against him. So he
went out beyond the gates, leading his warriors. And
since there was no plain whereon they could give
battle, they fought upon the mountain side, and many
were the Turkish heads that were felled. But Firoud
made great havoc among his enemies, and they beheld
that he was a lion in the fight. But the stars of the
234
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
young hero were waning, for even a brave man cannot
contend alone against an host. For when he would have
ridden back unto his castle, Rehham and Byzun lay in
ambush against him, and they closed unto him the two
ends of the path. But Firoud was not dismayed thereat.
He fell upon the son of Gew, and would have slain him;
but Rehham came upon him from behind, and struck
him down with a mighty club. Then Firoud knew that
his hour was come, and he returned unto his mother.
Now when she saw him she raised a great cry, but he
bade her keep silence, and he spake, saying—
Weep not, for the time suffereth it not. For the
Iranians follow fast upon me, and they will enter and
take this house, and do violence unto thee and to thy
women. Go out, therefore, and cast you from off the
walls into the abyss, that death may come upon you, and
that Byzun when he entereth find none alive. As for
me, my moments are but few, for the heroes of Iran
have murdered the days of my youth."
And the women did as he commanded, save only his
mother, who abode beside him until the breath was
gone out from his body. Then she made a great fire,
and threw therein all his treasures, and she went out
into the stables and laid low the horses that were
therein. And when she had made the place a desert
unto the Iranians, she returned unto the feet of her son,
and pierced her body with a sword.
Now when the Iranians had broken down the bars of
FIROUD.
235
the gates and entered into the castle, they came unto
the chamber and beheld the bodies of Firoud and of his
mother. And when they saw them, they could not
withhold their tears, and they sorrowed for the anger
of Tus, and the fear of Kai Khosrau came upon them.
And Gudarz said unto Tus-
“Thou hast sown hatred, and thou wilt reap war. It
beseemeth not a leader to be quick to ire. Thy haste
hath brought to death a youth of the race of the Kaian-
ides, and hath caused the blood of thy sons to be spilled."
When Tus heard these words he wept in his sorrow,
and said-
“Evil fortune is come upon me."
Then he caused a royal tomb to be made, and seated
Firoud therein upon a throne of gold, and he decked
him with all the signs of kingship. And when he had
so done he returned with his army unto the plains, and
three days they halted in their grief. But on the fourth.
the trumpets were sounded for departure, and Tus led
forth the army towards Turan.
Now when Afrasiyab learned that a host was come
forth against him from out of Iran, he bade Piran make
ready his army. For he said-
"Kai Khosrau hath unveiled unto us the secrets of his
heart, and we know now that forgiveness is not hidden.
in his soul."
Now while they made them in order, there came a
great storm of snow that covered the earth like to a
1
236
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
carpet, and the water became hard, and for many days
no man beheld the earth or the sun. And food was
lacking unto the Iranians, and they were fain to devour
their steeds of battle. And when at last the sun came
back, the earth was changed into a lake, and the
Iranians suffered yet again. Then Tus said-
“Let us return whence we came forth.”
But his army said, "Not so. Shall we flee before the
face of Afrasiyab?"
So they made them ready to meet their foes. And
they fought right valiantly, and many were the heads of
Turan that were laid in the dust by their hands, and
the victory inclined towards them. Then Tus was glad,
thereto his warriors.
and made a great feast and invited
And he darkened their heads with wine, so that they
laid aside their armour, neither did they set watches in
the camp. Now Piran, when he learned of this, saw that
the time served him, and when the night was fallen he
went out against the camp of Iran. And all the nobles
were drunk save only Gudarz the wise. Now when he
heard that the Turanians were come into the camp, he
ran to the tents of Tus and cried, saying—
"Is this the hour to hold the wine-cup?"
Then he called together his sons, and he set his army
in order; but the Turanians routed them utterly, for the
men of Iran were heavy with wine, and they knew not
whither they sent their blows. And the carnage was
great, and when the sun had brought back the day the
FIROUD.
237
So the old
ground was strewn thick with the bodies of the Iranians.
And cries of agony were heard around, and there were
none to heal the hurts, for those that were whole were
captive. And Tus was beside himself for sorrow, and
Gudarz alone was not defraught of reason.
man sent forth a messenger to bear the tidings of woe
unto the Shah. Now he was a messenger that made
the earth disappear beneath his feet, and speedily did
he stand within the courts of the King. And Kai
Khosrau, when he had listened to his words, was angered,
and his tongue called down curses on the head of Tus.
Then he pondered all night how he should act, but when
the cock crew he wrote a letter unto Friburz the son of
Kai Kaous. And he bade him take unto him the flag of
Kawah and the golden boots, and lead the army in the
place of Tus. And he bade him in all things be obedient
to the counsels of Gudarz the wise, and he recalled how
Tus had disobeyed his commandments, and he said—
"I know no longer who is my friend or my foe."
Then he put his seal to the letter and gave it unto the
messenger. And the man sped forth and brought it
into the camp. Then Friburz read it oùt before the
army. And when he had heard it Tus did that which the
Shah desired, and when he had given over unto Friburz
the command he turned him to go back unto Iran.
Now when he was come before Kai Khosrau, he
fell upon the earth before his throne, and the Shah
raised him not, neither did he give to him words of
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THE EPIC OF KINGS
greeting. And when he parted his lips, it was to let forth
words of anger. And he made known to him his sore
displeasure, and he reproached him with the death of
Firoud, and he said-
"But that thou art sprung from Minuchihr, and that
thy beard is white, I would sever thy head from off thy
body for this deed. Yet, as it is, a dungeon shall be
thy dwelling, and thine evil nature thy gaoler."
And when he had thus spoken he drove him from his
presence, and gave orders that he should be put into
chains.
Now while these things passed in Iran, Friburz
craved of Piran that he would grant unto him a truce.
And Piran said-
"It is ye who have broken into our land; yet I will
listen unto your desires and grant unto you this truce,
and it shall be of the length of one moon. But I counsel
unto you that ye quit the land of Turan in its course."
But Friburz would not lead back the army thus discom-
fited, and he spent the time accorded to him in prepara-
tion, and when it was at an end he offered battle again
to the Turanians. And there was waged a combat such
as the sun hath not looked upon its like, and the army of
the Iranians was overthrown. And the slaughter was
terrible, neither did the men of Turan escape, and many
were the great ones of the land that perished. And the
men of Iran fought till that their strength was departed.
They had sought the conflict and found defeat. And
FIROUD.
239
they that were not slain fled from the battlefield,
and it is they that saved their lives in this manner
whom thou must bewail.
Now when another day was risen upon the world,
Piran sent for his guards to bring him news of the
Iranians. And when they told him that their tents
were vanished from off the plains, he sent the news of
victory to Afrasiyab. And the King rejoiced thereat,
and all the land prepared a great feast unto the army.
And when Piran entered into the city the terraces
thereof were decked with carpets of gay hue, and the
houses were clothed with arras of Roum, and pieces of
silver rained down upon the warriors. And the King
poured upon Piran gifts of such number that you would
not have patience to hear me recount them. And he
sent him back unto Khoten with much honour and
many counsels. And he said—
"Let not thine army slumber, and trust not thy foe
because he is drawn back. I charge thee keep thine
eyes fixed upon the land of Rustem, for if thy vigilance
slumber he will surely come forth and destroy thee, for
he alone is to be feared of the men of Iran. Therefore
be brave and watchful, and may Heaven preserve thee
unto my throne."
And Piran listened unto the words spoken of Afrasi-
yab, as it beseemed him. And when he was returned
unto his kingdom, he set watchers upon all sides, that
they might acquaint him concerning Rustem the Pehliva.
THE VENGEANCE OF KAI KHOSRAU.

IRE was the wailing among the army of
Iran at their sore defeat, and they turned
them back discomfited. And they came
before the Shah, their hearts torn with
anguish. And their hands were crossed
upon their breasts, and they were humble as slaves.
And Kai Khosrau was angry when he beheld them,
and he remembered Firoud, and he railed against Tus,
from whom was sprung this evil. And he said—
"Cursed be he and his elephants and his cymbals."
And the Shah withdrew from his courts, and he with-
held his countenance from the land. So the nobles
went out unto Rustem, and entreated of him that he
would intercede for them with the Shah. And Rustem
did as they desired, and he pleaded for the army and
its leaders, and he spake good even of Tus. And Kai
Khosrau inclined his ear unto his Pehliva, and he let
the light of his countenance shine again upon his army,
and he confided unto Tus once more the standard of
Kawah, but he made Gew march beside him and restrain
his haste.
THE VENGEANCE OF KAI KHOSRAU.
241
So they set forth again unto Turan, and Afrasiyab,
when he learned of their approach, made ready his army
also. And there were joined unto him the hosts of the
Khakan of China and of the Kamous of Kushan, men
mighty in the battlefield. And from Ind and all the
highlands of Asia there came forth troops unto the aid
of Afrasiyab, King of Turan. And he rejoiced thereat,
for he was assured that if Rustem came not forth to
aid them, the men of Iran could not stand against his
host.
Now when the two armies met, many and fierce were
the combats waged between them, and blows were given
and received, and swords flashed and showers of arrows
descended on all sides. And the blood of brave men
was shed like unto the shedding of rain from a black
cloud. And day by day were the Iranians weakened,
for they were smitten with great slaughter, and the
number of their dead was past the counting. But
Afrasiyab rejoiced in his victory, and his heart shouted
within him when he learned after many days that the
Iranians were drawn back into the mountains. But Kai
Khosrau, when he learned it, was afflicted, and wept sore.
Then he sent greeting unto Rustem, his Pehliva, and he
craved of him that he would come forth to aid the
army, for in him alone could he put his trust. And
Rustem said-
"O Shah, since the day that mine arm could wield
a mace, I have ever fought the battles of Iran, and it
Q
242
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
would seem that rest may never come nigh unto me.
Yet since I am thy slave, it behoveth me to obey. I
am ready to do thy desires.”
So he made ready an host to go unto the succour of
Iran. And while he did so the army was defeated yet
again, and all heart went from the Iranians, and they
would have given them over unto their foes. But
while they pondered it, there came tidings unto Gudarz
that Rustem was drawing nigh. Yet they feared to
give way unto belief. But Piran when he heard it was
sore discomfited, for he remembered of old the might
of Rustem, and he knew that none could stand before
it. But the Khakan and the Kamous scoffed at his fears,
and they made loud boastings that Rustem should fall
by their hands.
Now when some days had passed in this disquietude,
it came about one night that, when the moon showed
her face above the mountains, like unto a victorious
king seated upon a throne of turquoise, a watchman of
Iran set up a great cry. And he said—
"The plain is filled with dust, and the night resoundeth
with noise. And I behold a mighty army drawing
nigh, and they bear torches, and in their midst rideth
Rustem the mighty."
When the men of Iran heard this, they set up a great
shout, and their hearts seemed to come back into their
bodies, and their courage, that had been as dead, re-
turned. And glad was the greeting that they gave
THE VENGEANCE OF KAI KHOSRAU.
243
unto Rustem the Pehliva. And Rustem mustered them
and put them into battle order, and when the sun had
wearied of the black veil, and had torn the night asunder,
and reappeared unto the world, the men of Iran called
upon the host of Turan to come forth in combat. And
they defied them unto battle, and they fought with new
valour, and they made great havoc in their ranks. And
when the evening was come, the day belonged unto
Iran.
Then Piran called before him Human the brave, and
said unto him-
"The nobles of Iran have found again their courage,
since an army is come to their aid. Yet I would
know if Rustem be their leader, for him alone do I
fear."
But
And when he learned it his spirit was troubled.
the Kamous mocked him, and sware a great oath that,
ere the sun should have set once more, he would have
broken the might of Rustem. For he said-
There is none, not even a mad elephant, that is mine
equal in the fight.”
So when the day was come, the Kamous challenged
Rustem unto single combat. And Rustem strode forth
from the camp, and the Kamous met him upon the plain.
Then they struggled sore, and wrestled one with another,
but in the end Rustem caught the Kamous in the meshes
of his cord. And he showed him unto the army, and
he asked of them, saying—
244
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
What death desire ye that the Kamous should die,
for his hour is come?"
Then he threw him among the nobles, and they made
an end of him with their spears, and they flung his body
to the vultures.
Now when the Khakan heard of the death of the
Kamous, he sware that he would avenge him, and he sent
forth a messenger to defy Rustem. But Rustem said unto
the messenger—
"I seek no quarrel with the Khakan, and in all your
army I desire only to look upon the face of Piran.
And I beg of him that he will come forth to greet
me, for my heart burneth towards him, because he was
afflicted for the death of Saiawush, my foster-son, and
because of the good he did unto Kai Khosrau and unto
his mother."
So the messenger bare these words unto Piran. And
Piran, when he had taken counsel, listened unto the de-
sires of Rustem, and came into his tents. And he said—
"I am Piran, leader of the hosts of Turan. Speak
unto me thy name."
And Rustem said, "I am Rustem of Zaboulistan, and
I am armed with a mace and a sword of Cabul."
Then he gave him greeting from Kai Khosrau, and
he lauded him for the good deeds that he had done.
unto Saiawush and to his son, and he entreated him
that he would turn away from Afrasiyab, and go with
him unto Kai Khosrau. And he said-
THE VENGEANCE OF KAI KHOSRAU.
245
There-
"Iran desireth not to destroy the innocent.
fore deliver over unto me the men upon whose head
resteth the blood of Saiawush, and we will withdraw our
hosts, and there shall be peace in the land."
Then Piran said, "That which thou askest, verily it
can never be, for the slayers of Saiawush are near kins-
folk unto Afrasiyab. And because he hath named me
the leader of his hosts, it may not be that I abandon
them. But I say unto thee, that it would be sweeter
unto me to die than to conduct this warfare, and that
my heart is torn because I must lift up the sword of
enmity against Kai Khosrau, my son."
And Rustem saw that the words that Piran spake
were true, and he sorrowed for him. And when they
parted it was in friendship, although they knew that
battle must rage between them. Then they drew up
their armies, and for forty days there was waged a
battle mighty and terrible. And great ravages were
committed, and Rustem did deeds of valour, and the
strong and the weak were alike impotent before him.
And the plains were strewn with the bodies of the
slain, until that an ant could not have found a road to
pass between them, and the blood of the wounded
streamed on all sides, and heads without bodies and
bodies without heads covered the ground. For neither
the claw of the leopard nor the trunk of the elephant,
neither the high mountains nor the waters of the earth,
could prevail against Rustem when he fought at the
246
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
head of his hosts. And he slew the mightiest among
the Turanians, and only Piran was he mindful to spare.
And the Khakan of China was enmeshed in his cord,
and he sent him bound unto Kai Khosrau with news of
the victory. And when the Turanians fled before his
face, he followed after them and pursued them unto the
mountains.
Then Piran made haste to come before Afrasiyab, and
he spake to him and said-
The land is changed into a sea of blood, for Rustem
is come forth, and who can stand against him? And he
followeth after me close. Wherefore I counsel thee, flee;
for how canst thou stand alone against him? Alas for
the woe that thou hast brought upon Turan! Thou
hast wounded our hearts with the iron of the arrow
wherewith thou didst slay Saiawush the noble."
Then he urged upon him that he tarry not. So
Afrasiyab fled from before the face of Rustem and hid
himself in the mountains. And when Rustem came into
his courts and found that the King was fled, he seized
upon much booty and divided it among his men, and he
feasted them many days in the house of Afrasiyab, and he
suffered them to enjoy repose. Then he destroyed with
fire the palace, and when he had done so he turned him
to go back unto Kai Khosrau.
Now when he was come within the city of the Shah,
glad cries rang through all the air, and the sound of
drums filled the land of Iran, and there was joy through-
THE VENGEANCE OF KAI KHOSRAU.
247
out its breadth because the destroyer of Turan was
returned. And the heart of Kai Khosrau rejoiced like
a paradise, and he came out to meet his Pehliva
mounted upon an elephant gaily caparisoned, and music.
and singers went before him. And he invited him to a
great feast, and he poured rich gifts upon him. And for
a month Rustem abode in the presence of his Shah,
making merry with wine. And the singers chanted of
his great deeds, and the sounds of flutes and stringed
instruments went with their words. But when that time
was over Rustem asked of Kai Khosrau that he would
suffer him to return unto Zal his father, for his heart
yearned to look upon his face. And Kai Khosrau
suffered it.
Now Rustem was not returned long unto Zaboulistan
before there came into the courts of the Shah a shepherd
who desired to speak with Kai Khosrau. And the Shah
granted his request, and the man opened his mouth
before him, and he said-
A wild ass is broken in among my horses, and he
doeth great mischief, for his breath is like unto a lion.
Send forth, therefore, I entreat of thee, O King of kings,
a warrior of thine host that he may slay him."
*
Now Kai Khosrau, when he had listened, knew that
this was not a wild ass but the Deev Akwan, who had
taken this disguise upon him. So he cast about whom
he should send forth to meet him, and he knew there
was none other but Rustem, the son of Zal, to whom he
248
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
could turn in this strait. So he sent a messenger swift as
a cloud before a storm to summon him forth yet again.
And Rustem obeyed the voice of his Shah, and he set
forth in search of the Deev, and he was mounted upon
Rakush his steed. And in his hand was a mighty mace,
and round his wrist was rolled a cord of length. And
he went in search of the wild ass, and when he had found
him he threw his cord about him. But the ass vanished
under his hands. Then Rustem knew that it was a
Deev, and that he fought against the arts of magic. Yet
was he not dismayed. And after a while the ass came
forth again, and Rustem threw his cord once more about
him. And yet again the Deev vanished under his hand.
And thus did the Deev three days and three nights
without ceasing, so that weariness came upon Rustem
and he was heavy with slumber. So he sought out a
spot of safety and he laid him down to rest, and he bade
Rakush browse beside him.
Now when the Deev saw that Rustem was sleeping,
he drew nigh and loosened the earth whereon he lay,
and lifted it and placed it upon his head, that he might
cast it away and destroy Rustem. But as he carried him
Rustem awoke, and when he saw what was come to pass
he feared that his hour was come. And the Deev, when
he beheld that Rustem was awakened, spake, and said
unto him-
"O hero, which death dost thou covet? Shall I fling
thee down upon the mountain or cast thee into the sea?”
THE VENGEANCE OF KAI KHOSRAU.
249
Now Rustem knew that the Deev questioned him in
wile, and he bethought him that he would of a surety
do that which Rustem desired not, so he said-
I have heard it said that it is not given to those that
perish in the waters to look upon the face of the Serosch
or to find rest in the life that is beyond."
Then the Deev said, "I desire that thou know not
repose."
And he flung him into the sea at a spot where hungry
crocodiles would devour him.
Now Rustem, when he felt the water beneath him,
forthwith drew out his sword and combated the croco-
diles with his right hand, and with his left he swam
towards the shore. And long did he struggle and sore,
but when the night was fallen he put his foot upon the
dry land. Then, when he had given thanks unto God
and rested him, he returned unto the spot where he
had found the Deev. And he sought after Rakush
his steed, and his eye beheld him not. Then fear
filled his spirit, and he roamed around to seek him.
And he found him at last among the horses of Afrasi-
yab, that grazed in a spot hard by, for the keepers
had ensnared him. But when Rakush heard the voice
of Rustem he neighed aloud, and brake from the keepers
and ran towards his master. And Rustem put the
saddle upon him and mounted him. Then he slew the
keepers and took their herds unto himself.
Now while he was so doing Afrasiyab came forth
11
250
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
from his hiding-place, for his heart yearned to look upon
his horses. And when he beheld Rustem in their midst
he was dismayed, and knew not whither he should turn,
for he deemed that the Pehliva had discovered his
hiding-place and was come forth against him. So he
offered battle unto him with the men that were with
him. And Rustem accepted the challenge, although he
was alone; and he fought with might and overcame the
men, and slew sixty of them with his sword and forty
with his mace. And Afrasiyab fled once more from
before him.
Now when it was done the Deev came forth again,
for he thought he could quell Rustem now that he was
weary. But Rustem sprang on him and crushed him,
and he was slain at his hands. Then the Pehliva
returned unto Kai Khosrau. And when the Shah had
learned of all his deeds, and beheld the booty that he
had brought back, his mouth could not cease from
praising the prowess of Rustem, and he would have kept
his Pehliva beside him for ever. But Rustem said—
"Suffer thy servant to go forth. For I would make
ready an host, since it behoveth us not to cease from
the vengeance that is due unto Saiawush, for his mur-
derers yet cumber the ground."
Wherefore Rustem departed yet again from out the
courts of the Shah.
BYZUN AND MANIJEH.

EACE reigned again within the borders of
Iran, and the sword slept in its scabbard,
and Kai Khosrau ordered the world with
wisdom. And men rejoiced that the glory
of Turan had been brought low, and the
Shah feasted his nobles in lightness of heart.
Now it came about one day that while they were
shortening the hours with wine there entered in unto
them the keeper of the curtains of the door. And he
said that men from Arman stood without and craved an
audience. Then Kai Khosrau bade that they be let in.
So the men came before him, and they uttered cries of
lamentation, and they fell down at his feet and implored
his aid. And Kai Khosrau said-
"Who hath done you wrong?"
Then the men answered, "Our wrong cometh unto us
from the borders of Turan, for there issue forth thence
wild boars that break into our fields and do destruction
to our crops. And our fortunes are entwined with the
ground, and no man can overcome these beasts. Where-
fore, we pray thee, send forth a Pehliva that he may
subdue them, for our land groaneth under this plague."
252
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Then Kai Khosrau said, "It shall be done as you
desire," and he dismissed them graciously. Then he
called before him his treasurer, and bade him bring forth
precious stones, and horses with girdles of gold, and rich
brocades of Roum. And when they were placed before
him he showed them to his nobles, and he said that
whoever would go forth to combat the wild boars should
not find him close-handed. But for a while none
answered, for no man listed to go forth to battle with
wild beasts. Then Byzun, the son of Gew, arose and
spake, saying—
"If the Shah will grant leave unto me, I will go forth
and slay these foes.”
Now Gew was grieved thereat, because that Byzun
was his only son, and he feared for his youth. There-
fore he sought to restrain him. But Byzun suffered it
not, and he said-
"O King, listen unto my desires; for though I be
young in years, yet am I old in prudence, and I will
do nought that is not fitting unto thy slave."
And Kai Khosrau granted his request, but he bade
him take forth with him Girgin, the wise in counsel, that
he should guide him aright. And Byzun did as the
Shah desired, and they set forth unto the land of Arman.
Now when they were come unto the wood they rested
them, and made a great fire, and drank wine until they
were refreshed. Then Girgin would have laid him down
to slumber. But Byzun said-
BYZUN AND MANIJEH.
253 -
"Not so, let us go forth and seek the wild boars."
Then Girgin said, "Go thou alone, for it is thou who
hast engaged in this combat, and who hast taken to
thyself the gifts of the Shah. Therefore it behoveth
me only to look on."
When Byzun heard these words he was amazed, but
he regarded them not, and he entered in upon the forest.
And after a while he came upon the wild boars, and they
fell upon him. But he slew them with his mace, and he
reddened the ground with their gore, and he went after
them, even unto their lairs, and not one of them did
he suffer to escape. Then when he had done thus, he
parted their mighty teeth from off their heads and hung
them about his saddle, that the men of Iran might
behold them. And after this he turned him back unto
Girgin.
Now Girgin, when he beheld him mounted upon his
horse, and bearing round his saddle the tokens of his
triumph, was envious thereat. And with his mouth he
gave him joy, but Ahriman took hold of his spirit. So
he pondered all night long how he could lay a snare for
Byzun. And when the morning was come he praised
his prowess, and they quaffed wine together, and fair
words were exchanged between them. Then Girgin
said-
"This land is known unto me, for I sojourned here
with Rustem. And I know that at the distance of two
farsangs lies the garden of Afrasiyab, where his women
254
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
go forth to keep the feast of spring. And I bethink me
that the time is at hand. Wherefore, I say unto thee,
let us go hence, and behold with our eyes the fair ones
whom the King of Turan hideth behind his curtains.”
Now these words inflamed the blood of Byzun, and he
gave ear unto Girgin, for he was young, and he acted
like a young man. So they set forth upon the road,
and Girgin filled the mind of Byzun with feasts and with
sounds of music. And when they were come unto the
spot, Byzun burned with impatience to look upon the
women of Afrasiyab. And Girgin feigned as though he
would restrain his foot within the skirt of patience, but
he rejoiced in secret, for he hoped that from this deed
evil would arise. So Byzun sped forth unto the garden,
and he hid himself beneath the shade of a tall cypress,
and he feasted his eyes upon the beauty of the women.
And the garden was clad in its robes of spring, and the
world was green and fair, and all the air was filled with
the sweet sounds of music and of song. And there
moved amid the rose-bushes maidens of Peri face, and
in stature they were like to the cypress-trees, and one
was exalted above them all. And she was daughter
unto Afrasiyab, and Manijeh was she named.
Now it came about that as Manijeh stood at the door
of her tent she beheld Byzun where he was hid. And
she marvelled at his beauty, and her heart was captive
unto him. So she called about her her maidens, and
said-
BYZUN AND MANIJEH.
255
"Go forth and question the stranger who regardeth
us, for I bethink me that he is a Peri, or that Saiawush
is come back unto the earth, for no mortal can own such
beauty, neither can any man enter here.”
Then one went forth and bare unto Byzun this mes-
sage. And his heart leaped thereat, and he said-
"Say unto your mistress that I am come forth from
Iran to slay the wild boars of Arman. And I came
hither that perchance I might gaze upon the face of the
daughter of Afrasiyab, for tidings of her beauty were
told unto me, and reached even unto Iran. Go, there-
fore, and ask if I may speak with her."
Then the handmaidens did as Byzun desired, and
Manijeh said, "Let him come forth.”
So Byzun entered into the tents of Manijeh, and she
received him with joy, and she caused his feet to be
washed with musk and amber, and she poured jewels
before him, and prepared for him a feast of sweet meats.
And slaves stood around and made soft music, and the
heart of Byzun was ensnared in the meshes of the net
that had been spread. And three days and three nights
did he sojourn beside Manijeh, and his passion for her
waxed greater, and he thought not of Iran, neither of the
time of departure. And Manijeh too rejoiced in his
presence, and when the time was come for her to quit
the garden of spring she would not part with him. So
she gave unto him a cup wherein she had mingled a
potion. And the wine caused Byzun to sleep, and while
256
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
he slept the maidens bare him in a litter even into the
house of Afrasiyab. And Manijeh hid him behind the
curtains of the women, and none, save only her hand-
maidens, were aware of his presence.
Now when Byzun awoke he asked whither he was
come, and when he learned that he was in the house of
Afrasiyab he was afraid, and desired to return unto Iran.
But Manijeh quieted his distrust, and he forgot his fears
in her love. And she made the earth glad about him,
and the hours fled on the wings of wine and of joy.
And many days sped thus, and none knew what passed
in the house of the women.
Then it came about that a guardian of the door learned
thereof, and he came before Afrasiyab, and told unto
him that his daughter hid within her house a man of the
race of Iran. And Afrasiyab, when he learned it, was
beside himself with anger, and he cursed Manijeh, and
he said-
"The hour is come unto this man."
Then he called for Gersiwaz, his brother, and bade
him go forth with a band of armed men unto the house
of the women. And Gersiwaz did as Afrasiyab com-
manded, and he put guards at all the doors. Then the
sounds of lutes and of rejoicing fell upon his ear, for
none were aware of the vengeance that was come upon
them. And when Gersiwaz was come unto the house of
Manijeh, the daughter of Afrasiyab, he brake open the
doors, and stood in the midst of the revels. And he
BYZUN AND MANIJEH.
257
beheld within the chamber many slaves playing on lutes
of gold, and fair women that handed the wine-cups.
And Manijeh was seated upon a throne of gold, and
beside her was Byzun, the son of Gew, the Iranian, and
joy was painted on his visage.
Now when Gersiwaz beheld Byzun, he cried, "O
vile, man, thou art fallen into my hands!
thou now save thy life?"
How wilt
And Byzun was dismayed, for he had neither sword
nor armour, and he thought within himself-
"I fear me that my life will end this day.”
But he drew forth from his boot a dagger that was
hidden therein, and he threatened Gersiwaz, and he said.
that he would plunge it into his breast if he led him
not before Afrasiyab.
Now Gersiwaz knew that Byzun was quick to act, and
would do that which he spake, so he held back from
combat, and he seized Byzun and bound him, and led
him before Afrasiyab. And when Afrasiyab saw him
in such plight, he said—
"O man of evil, wherefore didst thou come into my
land?"
Then Byzun told him how he had gone forth to slay
the boars, and how he had come into the garden of
Afrasiyab, and he said that a Peri had borne him unto
the palace, for he would not do hurt unto Manijeh.
But Afrasiyab refused belief unto his words, and he com-
manded that a gibbet should be raised without his court;
R
258
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
and that Byzun be hung thereon, because he had dis-
honoured the house of the women, and had stolen like
a thief in the night into the house of the King. And in
vain did Byzun invoke mercy at the hands of Afrasiyab,
and he was led forth beyond the courts. And the men
of Afrasiyab made ready the gallows, and Byzun stood.
bound beneath. And he wept sore in his distress, and
he prayed to the winds that they would bear tidings of
him unto the Shah of Iran, and he sware that his death
should be avenged upon Turan.
Now while he waited thus there passed by Piran, the
Pehliva, who was come forth to do homage unto the
King. And when he beheld the gibbet he questioned
concerning it, and when he learned that it was for
Byzun he was troubled. So he got him from his horse
and came near unto the youth, and questioned him of
this adventure. And Byzun told him all that was come
about, and how his evil comrade had laid for him a snare.
Then Piran commanded that punishment be stayed
until he should have spoken unto Afrasiyab. And he
went in and stood before the King as a suppliant. Then
Afrasiyab bade him make known his desires. And
Piran opened his mouth and spake words of wisdom
unto Afrasiyab, his King. And he reminded him of
the death of Saiawush, and how Byzun was of much
account in his own country, and how surely his blood
would be avenged. And he said how the land of Turan
was not ready to stand again in a new war, and he
BYZUN AND MANIJEH.
259
prayed Afrasiyab to content him with a dungeon. And
he said-
"Heap chains upon Byzun, and let the earth hide him,
that Iran may not know whither he is vanished."
Now Afrasiyab knew that the words of Piran were
wise, and he gave ear unto them. So Byzun was led
forth unto a desert place, and he was laden with chains
of iron, and his tender flesh was bound, and he was
thrown into a deep hole. And the opening thereof was
closed with a mighty stone that the Deev Akwan had
torn from the nethermost sea, and neither sun nor moon
could be seen by Byzun, and Afrasiyab trusted that his
reason would forsake him in this pit. And when he had
done thus unto Byzun, he bade Gersiwaz go in unto the
house of the daughter that had dishonoured him, and
tear off her costly robes, and her crown, and her veil.
And he said—
"Let her be cast forth also into the desert, that she
may behold the dungeon wherein Byzun is hid. And
say unto her, 'Thou hast been his Spring, be now his
comforter, and wait upon him in his narrow prison.'"
And Gersiwaz did as Afrasiyab commanded, and he
tore the veil from off Manijeh, and he caused her to
walk barefooted unto the spot where Byzun was hid.
Now Manijeh was bowed down with sorrow, and she
wept sore, and she wandered through the desert day
and night bewailing her fate. And ever did she return
unto the pit, and she sought how she might enter
260
THE EPIC OF KINGS.'
therein. But she could not move the mighty stone that
closed its mouth. Yet after some days were gone by she
found an opening where she could thrust in her hand.
Now when she had found it she rejoiced, and daily
she went forth unto the city and begged of men that
they would give her bread. And none knew her for
the daughter of Afrasiyab, but all had pity upon her
sorry plight, and they gave her freely of that which they
had. And she returned with it unto Byzun, and she fed
him through the hole that she had made. And she.
spake unto him sweet words of comfort, and she kept
his heart alive within him.
1
Now while these things were passing in Turan, Girgin
was returned unto Iran much discomfited. And he
pondered how he should come before the Shah, and
what he should say unto Gew. And he told them
that they had of their combined strength overcome
the boars, and he boasted that he had done deeds of
great prowess, and he said that a wild ass was come
forth out of the forest and had borne away Byzun from
before his eyes, and verily he held that it must be a
Deev. Then Kai Khosrau questioned him closely, and
when he had done so he saw that Girgin held not
unto his story. So his mind misgave him, and he
commanded that Girgin be put in chains. And he
said-
"I will guard thee until I have learned tidings of
Byzun."
BYZUN AND MANIJEH.
261
Now Gew was beside him with grief because of his
only son, whom he loved, but Kai Khosrau spake com-
fort unto his soul. And he bade riders go forth unto
all corners of the wind to seek tidings of Byzun, and
he said-
"If I learn nought concerning him until the feast of
Neurouz be come, I will search for him in the crystal
globe wherein I can behold the world, and read the
secrets of destiny."
Now when the horsemen had sought Byzun in vain.
throughout the plains of Iran and in the gorges of the
land of Arman, they returned them unto the courts of
the Shah. So when the feast of Neurouz was come,
Kai Khosrau clothed himself in a robe of Roum, and he
took from off his head the crown of the Kaianides, and
he presented himself in humility before Ormuzd. Then
he took in his hand the globe of crystal, and he prayed.
to God that He would grant unto him to behold the
seven zones of the world. And God granted it. And
Kai Khosrau surveyed all the lands of the earth, and
nowhere upon them could he behold Byzun. And he
was downcast and sad in his spirit, for he deemed that
Byzun was departed from the world. Then Ormuzd
showed unto him where he was hidden in a pit, and Kai
Khosrau beheld him, and the damsel that watched
beside him. So he called before him Gew, and said-
(
Let thy heart cease from sorrow, for thy son liveth,
and he is tended by a maiden of noble birth. But he is
262
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
bound, and a mighty stone is laid above his prison, and
Rustem alone can deliver him. Wherefore I counsel
thee, speed forth unto Zaboulistan and entreat the son
of Zal that he come unto our aid yet again."
Then Kai Khosrau wrote a letter unto Rustem,
wherein he told him all that was come about, and he
gave the writing unto Gew. And Gew sped forth there-
with unto Zaboulistan.
Now when he was come within the courts of Rustem,
Zal beheld him from afar, and he feared that evil was
come upon Iran since the Shah sent forth a man of
might like unto Gew to be his messenger. So he came
forth in haste and questioned him. And when he learned
his mission he bade him come within, and he told him
how Rustem was gone forth to chase the wild ass, and
he made a feast for him, and entertained him until
his son
was returned within the courts. Now when
Rustem learned the tidings, his eyes were filled with
tears, but he spake comfort unto Gew, and he said-
"Be not disquieted, for verily Rustem shall not
remove the saddle from Rakush until he hath grasped
the hand of Byzun, and broken his chains and his
prison."
And when he had read the letter of the Shah, he
made him ready to go before Kai Khosrau. And when
he was come into his presence, he did obeisance before
him, and he said-
"O King of kings, I am ready to do thy com-
BYZUN AND MANIJEH.
263
mandments, for my mother brought me into the world
that I might weary myself for thee, and unto thee per-
taineth rest and joy, and unto me combat everlasting."
Then he chose forth from among the warriors men
of renown, that they should go out with him to deliver
Byzun. And Girgin sent greeting unto Rustem, and
craved of him that he would plead for him with the
Shah. And he bewailed his fault, and he entreated
that he might go out to succour Byzun. And Rustem.
asked his forgiveness of Kai Khosrau, and when the Shah
would have refused his suit, he pressed him hard. So
Kai Khosrau listened to the desires of his Pehliva.
Then he said unto him-
"Tell me what men and treasures thou desirest to
bear with thee into Turan."
And Rustem said, "I desire not a large army, for I
think to regain Byzun by the arts of wile. Give unto
me, therefore, jewels and rich brocades, and carpets, and
stuffs of value, for I purpose to go forth in the garb of a
merchant."
Then Kai Khosrau gave him the key to all his
treasures, and Rustem chose forth rich stuffs, and
loaded them upon an hundred camels. And he desired
seven valiant knights that they should go forth with
him clad in the dress of merchants, and that an army
be posted in secret upon the borders. And when all
was ready the caravan went forth. And they journeyed
until they came into the town of Khoten, and all the
264
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
•
people came forth to gaze upon their merchandise.
Then Rustem, in his disguise, went unto the house of
Piran, and he poured gifts before him, and he asked
leave of him that he might remain within the borders
to sell his wares. And Piran granted his request. So
Rustem took for himself a house, and showed his goods
unto the people, and bartered them, and it was noised
through all the land that a caravan was come out from
Iran, and all who had need of aught flocked into the
city. And the news spread even unto the ears of
Manijeh. And when she learned that it was men of
Iran who were come forth, she made her way unto the
city, and came before Rustem and questioned him,
saying-
"What news is there abroad in Iran concerning
Byzun, the son of Gew, and doth no army come forth
to save him? O noble merchant, I entreat of thee
when thou goest back to thy land, to seek out Gew,
and Kai Khosrau, and Rustem the mighty, and
bring unto them tidings of Byzun, lest he perish in his
chains."
Where-
Now Rustem, when he heard her words, was afraid
for his secret, for he knew not who she was.
fore he spoke roughly unto her, and he said—
"I am a man of peace and of ignoble birth, a
merchant, and I know nought of Gew, or of Byzun, or
of the Shah. Get thee hence, maiden, thou dost but
hinder my business, and this alone concerneth me."
BYZUN AND MANIJEH.
•265
When he had thus spoken, Manijeh looked on him
with sorrow, and wept, saying-
'Do the men of Iran refuse tidings unto the poor?”
Then Rustem repented him of his harshness, and
said-
((
Woman, who art thou, and how do these things
regard thee?”
And he caused food to be put before her, and he
comforted her with kind words. Then Manijeh said—
"I am daughter unto Afrasiyab, and my father hath
cast me forth because of Byzun."
And she told him all that was come about, and how
she had tended her beloved, and how she had kept him
alive. And she related unto Rustem how he languished
in his chains, and how they put their trust alone in
Rustem the Pehliva. And she said-
'When it was told unto me that men from Iran were
come forth, I sped hither unto thee, for I hoped that
tidings of Byzun might come thus unto the mighty
warrior."
When Rustem heard her words he was moved with
compassion. And when he had spoken softly unto her,
he gave to her savoury meats, and he bade her bear
them unto Byzun. Now within the body of a fowl he
had hidden a ring whereon was graven his seal. And
when Byzun came upon it and felt the ring, and that it
bare the name of Rustem, his heart laughed within him,
for he knew that the end of his ills was come. And his
266
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
lips laughed also, and his laughter shook the walls of
the pit.
Now when Manijeh heard his laughter she was
amazed, and she feared lest his wits were distraught,
and she leaned over the mouth of the pit and spake,
saying-
“O man of ill fortune, wherefore is thy heart thus
light, thou who seest neither sun, nor moon, nor stars?”
Then Byzun answered and said, "Hope is sprung
up in my breast.”
And Manijeh said, "Whence dost thou behold the
rays of hope?"
And Byzun answered, "I know not whether I can
confide it unto thee, for a woman cannot keep a secret."
Now Manijeh was pained at these words, and she
upbraided Byzun, and recalled to him all she had
suffered for his sake. And Byzun repented him of his
hasty speech, for he knew that she was prudent and
strong of spirit. So he said-
"Swear unto me a great oath, and I will tell it unto
thee."
And Manijeh sware.
Then Byzun said—
"I know that the merchant who is come forth from
Iran is come out because of me. Go therefore again.
into his presence, and say unto him, 'O Pehliva of the
King of kings, tell unto me, art thou the master of
Rakush?""
BÝZUN AND MANIJEH.
267
Now Manijeh, when she had heard these words,
sped forth to do the bidding of Byzun. And she came
before Rustem, and spake to him the words that had
been told her. And he answered and said-
"Go say unto thy friend, verily I am the master of
Rakush, and that I am come forth to deliver him."
And
Then he bade her gather together wood into a pyre,
and set light thereto when the night should be come,
that he might know where Byzun was laid.
Manijeh did as Rustem commanded, and she wearied
not to scour the land, and she stripped the trees of their
branches, and her tender body was torn of thorns; but
she bare all gladly for the sake of Byzun, whom she
loved. And when the night was fallen she set light
unto the wood, and Rustem came forth unto the spot,
and his seven comrades came with him. And each
strove in turn to lift the stone that closed the pit, but
none could roll it aside. Then Rustem prayed to God
that He would grant him strength, and he came unto
the mouth of the pit, and he bent down his body, and
he spake unto Byzun, and questioned him how he was
come into these straits. Then he said—
"I would ask of thee a boon. Grant thy forgiveness
unto Girgin, if it be given unto me to move this stone,
and to free thee from out of this pit. For verily he
repenteth him of his evil deed, and because he is valiant
I would that there should be peace between you."
268
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
But Byzun said, "Thou knowest not all the evil that
Girgin hath brought upon me. I cannot give ear unto
thy request, for I desire to take vengeance upon him.”
Then Rustem said, "If thy mind be thus evil that
thou wilt not listen to my desires, nor remember how I
have come forth in friendship to succour thee, I shall
mount upon Rakush and leave thee to perish in thy
chains."
When Byzun heard these words he gave a loud cry,
and bewailed his evil plight. And he said, "Be it as
thou desirest."
Then Rustem laid hold of the stone, and he put forth
all his strength, and he lifted it from off the mouth of
the pit and threw it far into the desert. Then he let
down his cord and enmeshed Byzun therein, and drew
him forth from his dungeon. And he was a sorry sight.
to see, for the earth had withered his body, and his
skin hung about his bones.
Now Rustem, when he had broken the chains of
Byzun, covered him with a cloak and set him upon a
horse, and he took Manijeh also, and led them unto his
house in the city. Then when he had refreshed them
with water, and covered them with new robes, he desired
that they be led unto the spot where the army was
hidden. And he said unto Byzun-
"I desire to fall upon Turan, but thou art too wasted
to fight."
But Byzun said, "Not so; let Manijeh go forth into
BYZUN AND MANIJEH.
269
shelter, but it behoveth not a man to be guarded like a
woman."
And he refused ear to the desires of Rustem, and
he clad him in a coat of mail, and he girded him to
ride beside the Pehliva. And they went forth in the
darkness until they were come unto the house of
Afrasiyab. And when they were come there, Rustem
lifted the doors from off their hinges and entered into
the precincts, and he slew the guards that kept the
curtains, and he made him a passage unto the chamber
of Afrasiyab. And when he stood therein he lifted up
his voice of thunder, and he cried-
"Sleep, man of folly, and may thy slumbers be deep.
Thou hast rested upon thy throne while Byzun was.
hidden in a pit. But thou hast forgotten that a road
leadeth from Iran into. Turan, and thou didst think in
thine evil heart that none would come forth to avenge.
him. Listen, therefore, unto my voice; for I am Rustem,
the son of Zal, the Pehliva, and I have broken down thy.
doors, and released Byzun from his chains, and I am
come to do vengeance upon thee."
When Afrasiyab heard these words he awoke, and.
cried out in his fear. And he called upon the names
of his guards. But no man came forth, because they
had been laid low by the hands of Rustem. Then
Afrasiyab made his way unto the door, and because it
was dark he escaped thence, and he fled before the face
of Rustem, and left his house between his hands. Then
堡
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Rustem took much rich booty of slaves, and horses, and
jewels, and when he had done so he sped back unto his
army, for he knew that with the day Afrasiyab would
come forth with an host to assail him. And it carne
about as he foresaw, and when the day was risen the
watchers cried out that an army marched forth from
Turan. Then Rustem set his men in battle order,
and he sent Manijeh and the slaves and the booty into
Iran, and he placed himself at the head of the host,
and Byzun rode beside him. And there was fought a
mighty battle, and great was the slaughter, and the
bodies of the slain and the broken armour covered the
earth. And the banner of Turan sank, and Afrasiyab
fled before his enemies.
Then Rustem returned with joy unto Kai Khosrau,
and the Shah was glad also. And he came forth to
greet his Pehliva, and there rode with him Gew and
Gudarz, his warriors. And when Kai Khosrau saw
Rustem he embraced him, and said—
"O stay of my soul, and man of valour, thou re-
semblest the sun, for wheresoever men may look they
behold the traces of thy mighty deeds. Happy is Zal
who owneth a son such as thou!"
Then he blessed him, and showered rich gifts upon
him; and Gew blessed him also, and Gudarz, because he
had brought back Byzun into their midst. Then Kai
Khosrau gave orders that a great feast be prepared, and
the heroes drank until their heads were heavy with wine.
BYZUN AND MANIJEH.
271
But in the morning Rustem came before the Shah in
audience, and opened his mouth and said-
May it please the King to lend his ear unto his
slave. I desire to return unto Zal, my father."
And Kai Khosrau listened to the just desires of
Rustem, though he would fain have kept him in his
courts.
Now when Rustem was departed, Kai Khosrau called
before him Byzun, and he spake to him of that which
was come about, and he poured pity upon the daughter
of Afrasiyab when he learned all she had suffered for
the sake of Byzun; and he gave him rich gifts, and
bade him bear them unto her, and he said—
"Cherish this woman in thy bosom, and suffer not
that grief come nigh unto her, neither speak to her
cold words, for she hath endured much for thee.
may thy life beside her be happy."
And
And when the Shah had thus spoken he dismissed
Byzun from his presence.
Thus endeth the history of Byzun and Manijeh.
THE DEFEAT OF AFRASIYAB.

M
OURNING and sorrow filled the heart of
Afrasiyab because of his defeat, and he
pondered in his spirit how the fortunes
of Iran might be retrieved. So he sent
messengers unto all his vassals that they
should unsheathe the sword of strife and make ready an
army. And the nobles did as Afrasiyab bade them,
and they got together an host that covered the ground,
and sent it forth before the King. And the King
placed Schideh his son at the head thereof, and he
said unto him-
"Open not the door of peace, neither treat Kai
Khosrau other than as an enemy."
Now when the Shah heard tidings of the army that
Afrasiyab had made ready against him, he commanded
that no man who could use the bridle and the stirrup
should stay within the borders of Iran. And when
the army was ready he placed at its head Gudarz the
Wise. But Kai Khosrau bade yet again that Gudarz
should seek to win Piran the Pehliva unto Iran ere the
hosts met in battle. For the Shah remembered the
THE DEFEAT OF AFRASIYAB.
273
benefits he had received at his hands, and it grieved
him sore to go out against him in enmity. And Gudarz
did as the Shah desired, and when he had crossed the
Jihun he sent Gew, his son, unto Piran that he might
speak with him. But Piran shut ear unto the voice of
Gew, and he said that he had led forth his army to
battle, and that it behoved him to do that which was
commanded of Afrasiyab.
So the two armies were drawn up in order of battle, and
each desired that the other should fall upon them the
first. And for three days and three nights they faced
each other, and you would have said that no man so much
as moved his lips. And Gudarz was posted before his men,
and day and night he searched the stars and the sun
and moon for augury. And he demanded of them
whether he should advance or whether he should stay.
And Piran also waited that he might behold what the
Iranians would do.
But Byzun was angry thereat, and he went before his
father and entreated him to urge his grandsire unto
action. "For surely," he said, "Gudarz hath lost his wits
that he thus regardeth the sun and stars, and thinketh
not of the enemy." And Gew strove in vain to quiet him.
And in the ranks of Turan also Human grew im-
patient, and he asked permission of his brother to
challenge the nobles of Iran to single fight. And Piran
sought to dissuade him in vain. So he got ready his
steed of battle, and rode until he came within the lines
S
274
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
of Iran. And when he was come thither he sought out
Rehham, the son of Gudarz, and challenged him to
measure his strength. But Rehham said—
"My soul thirsteth after the combat, yet since my
father hath commanded that the army advance not, it
beseemeth me not to forget his behests. And remember,
O valiant Turk, that he who ventureth first upon the
battlefield hath no need to seek the pathway to return."
Then Human said, "Men had told unto me that
Rehham was a knight of courage, but now I know that
he is afraid." And he turned away his steed and rode
until he came nigh unto Friburz, and he challenged him
also in words of pride, and he said—
"Thou art brother unto Saiawush, show now if there
live within thee aught of valour."
But Friburz answered, "Go forth before Gudarz and
demand of him that I may fight, and verily if he listen
unto thy voice, it will be a joy unto my soul."
Then Human said, "I see that thou art a hero only in
words." And he turned his back upon him also, and he
rode till that he came before Gudarz the Pehliva. And
he raised his voice and spake unto him words of insolence,
and he defied him to lead forth his army. But Gudarz
would not listen unto his voice. Then Human turned
him back unto the camp of Turan, and he said unto
the army how that the men of Iran were craven. And
when the army heard it they raised shouts of great joy.
Now the shouting of the men of Turan pierced even
THE DEFEAT OF AFRASIYAB.
275
unto the ears of the Iranians, and they were sore hurt
thereat; and the nobles came before Gudarz and
laid before him their complaints, and they entreated
of him that he would lead them forth that they might
prove their valour. And Byzun, when he heard what
had been done, came before his grandsire like to a lion
in his fury, and he craved that he would grant unto him
that he might reply unto the challenge of Human. Now
when Gudarz beheld that all the nobles were against him,
he listened unto the ardour of Byzun, and he gave to
him leave to go forth, and he accorded to him the armour
of Saiawush, and he blessed him and bade him be
victorious. Then Byzun sent a messenger unto Human,
and the place of combat was chosen. And when the
sun was risen they met upon the field, and Human
cried unto his adversary, and he said—-
"O Byzun, thine hour is come, for I will send thee
back unto Gew in such guise that his heart shall be torn
with anguish."
But Byzun answered and said, "Why waste we our
time in words, let us fall upon one another."
Then they did as Byzun desired. And they fought
with swords and with arrows, with maces also and with
fists, and sore was the struggle and weary, and the
victory leaned unto neither side. And they strove thus
from the time of dawn until the sun had lengthened the
shadows, and Byzun was afraid lest the day should end
in doubt. Then he sent up a prayer unto Ormuzd that
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
He would lend unto him strength. And Ormuzd listened
unto the petition of His servant. Then Byzun caught
Human in his arms and flung him upon the ground, and
he beat out his brains, and he severed his head from off
his trunk, that the murder of Saiawush might be avenged.
Then he gave thanks unto God, and turned him back
unto the camp, and he bore aloft the head of Human.
And the army of Iran, when they beheld it, set up a
great shout, but from the ranks of Turan there came the
noise of wailing. And Piran was bowed down with
grief and anger, and he commanded the army should
go forth and fall upon the Iranians.
Now there was fought a battle such as men have not
seen the like. And the earth was covered with steel, and
arrows fell from the clouds like hail, and the ground was
torn with hoofs, and blood flowed like water upon the
plains. And the dead lay around in masses, and the
feet of the horses could not stir because of them. Then
the chiefs of the army said among themselves—
"If we part not these heroes upon the field of ven-
geance, there will remain nought when the night is
come save only the earth that turns, and God, the Master
of the world."
Yet they withdrew not from the combat until the dark-
ness had thrown a mantle over the earth, and they could
no longer look upon their foes.
Now when the earth was become like unto ebony, the
leaders of the hosts met in conference. And it was
A
THE DEFEAT OF AFRASIYAB.
277
decided between them that they should choose forth
valiant men from their midst, and that on the morrow
the fate of the lands should be decided by them. For
they grieved for the blood that had been spilled, and they
desired that the hand of destruction be stayed. So when
the morning was come they chose forth their champions,
and ten men of valour were picked from each host, and
Piran and Gudarz led them out unto the plain. Now
on each side of the plain uprose a mountain. So Gudarz
said unto his comrades-
"Whosoever among you hath laid low his adversary,
let him mount this hill and plant the flag that he hath
won upon its crest, that the army may learn whom we
have vanquished."
And Piran spake unto his men in like manner. Then
the ten drew up and faced one another, and each man
stood opposed to the adversary that he had chosen.
Now Friburz was the first to begin combat, and he was
opposed unto Kelbad, the kinsman of Piran. And he
rode at him with fury, and he laid him low with his bow,
and he galloped with joy unto the mountain and planted
the standard of Kelbad upon its crest. Then when it
was done, Gew came forward to meet his adversary,
and he was placed over against Zereh, the man whom
Kai Khosrau hated because he had severed the head of
Saiawush from its trunk. And Gew was careful not to
slay him, but he threw his cord about him and caught
him in the snares and bound him. Then he took from
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
him his standard, and led him bound unto the mountain.
And there followed after him Gourazeh, and he too laid
low his foe and planted his flag upon the crest of the
hill. And likewise did all the champions of Iran; and
when the ninth hour was ended there waved ten stan-
dards from off the hill, and none remained to fight
save only Piran and Gudarz the aged. Then Gudarz
girded him for the combat, and for a mighty space they
wrestled sore, but in the end Gudarz laid low the power
of Piran.
Now when the Iranians beheld the standard of Piran
planted aloft amid those of his champions, they were
beside themselves for joy, and they called down the
blessings of Heaven upon the knight. Then a messenger
was sent to bear the tidings unto Kai Khosrau, and he
took with him Zereh that the Shah might with his own
hand sever that vile head from off its trunk. And Kai
Khosrau rejoiced at the news, and he rode forth that he
might visit his army. But when he beheld the body of
Piran he wept sore, and he remembered his kindness of
old, and he grieved for the man that had been to him
a father. Then he commanded that a royal tomb be
raised unto Piran, and he seated him therein upon a
throne of gold, and he did unto him all reverence. But
when it was done he aided his army to beat back the
men of Turan yet again, and he caused them to sue for
peace. And when they had brought forth their armour
and piled it at the feet of Kai Khosrau, he bade them
THE DEFEAT OF AFRASIYAB.
279
depart in peace. Then he returned with joy unto his
own land, and he gave thanks unto God for the victory
that was his. But he knew also that the time of peace
could not be long, and that Afrasiyab would dream of
vengeance.
THE PASSING OF KAI KHOSRAU.

OW it came to pass as Kai Khosrau fore-
told. For Afrasiyab, when he learned the
death of Piran, was beside himself with
grief. And he lifted up his voice in wail-
ing, and he spake, saying—
"I will no longer taste the joys of life, nor live like
unto a man that weareth a crown, until I be avenged
upon Kai Khosrau, the offspring of an accursed race.
May the seed of Saiawush perish from off the face of
the earth!
""
And when he had so spoken he made ready for yet
another war, and from all corners of the earth the kings
came forth to aid him. And Kai Khosrau, when he
learned thereof, got ready his army also, and he sware
that he would lead this war of vengeance unto a good
end. So he sent greeting unto Rustem his Pehliva, and
prayed of him that he would aid him in his resolve. And
Rustem listened to the voice of his Shah, and came forth
from Zaboulistan with a mighty army to aid him. Then
the Shah confided his hosts unto Tur and Rustem, and
the valleys, and the hills, and the deserts, and the plains
THE PASSING OF KAI KHOSRAU.
281
were filled with the dust that uprose from their foot-
steps. And they were warriors that bare high their
heads, and they knew neither weariness nor fear.
Now when the armies met, Afrasiyab called before
him Pescheng, his son, and bade him bear a writing
unto the Shah of Iran. And he wrote, saying-
"That which thou hast done, it is contrary to custom;
for a son may not lift his hand against his father, and
the head of a grandson that goeth out in enmity against.
his grandsire is filled with evil. And I say unto thee,
Saiawush was not slain without just cause, for he turned
him away from his ruler. And if thou sayest unto me
that I am an evil man, and issue of the race of Ahriman,
remember that thou too art sprung from my loins, and
that thy insults fall back upon thyself. Renounce,
therefore, this strife, and let a treaty be made between
us, and the blood of Saiawush be forgotten. And if
thou wilt listen unto my voice, I will cover thee with
jewels, and gold and precious things will I give unto
thee, and joy shall reign throughout the land.”
But Kai Khosrau, when he had read this message,
knew that Afrasiyab sought only to beguile him. So
he sent a writing unto the King of Turan, and he said—
"The cause of strife between us is not sprung from
Saiawush alone, but for that which thou didst aforetime,
and which thy fathers did unto Irij. Yet that which thou
hast done hath caused the measure of wrath to overflow.
Wherefore the sword alone can decide between us."
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Then he challenged the nobles of Turan to come forth
in combat. And he himself strove with Schideh, the son
of Afrasiyab, and he laid him low after the manner in
which Afrasiyab had laid low the head of Saiawush. And
when he had done so, the army of Turan came forth to
avenge their king, but the men of Iran overcame them.
And Afrasiyab was constrained to fly from before the face
of Kai Khosrau, and it was as gall and wormwood unto
his spirit. And Kai Khosrau followed after him, and he
would not suffer him to hide himself from his sight; and
he made him come forth yet again in battle, and yet again
he routed him utterly. And the men of Iran slew the
men of Turan until the field of battle was like unto a
sea of blood, and they fought until the night covered the
heavens, and the eyes of the warriors were darkened with
sleep. And Afrasiyab fled yet again beyond the borders
of Turan, and he craved of his vassals that they would
hide him from the wrath of Kai Khosrau. But the nobles
were afraid of the Shah, and of Rustem, who went with
him; and they refused shelter unto Afrasiyab, and he
was hunted over the face of the earth. Then he sought
out the King of China, and asked of him that he would
shelter him. And the King gave him shelter for a while.
But when Kai Khosrau learned where Afrasiyab was hid,
he followed after him, and he bade the King of China
render to him his enemy, and he menaced him with fire
and sword if he did not listen to his behest. So the
King bade Afrasiyab depart from out his borders. And.
THE PASSING OF KAI KHOSRAU.
283
Afrasiyab fled yet again, but wheresoever he hid him-
self he was found of Kai Khosrau, and his life was a
weariness unto him.
Now for the space of two years Kai Khosrau did thus
unto Afrasiyab, and the glory of Turan was eclipsed, and
Rustem reigned within the land. And when the second
year was ended the power of Afrasiyab was broken, and
Kai Khosrau bethought him to return unto Iran and
seek out Kai Kaous, his sire. And the old Shah, when
he learned it, was young again for joy. He caused his
house to be decked worthy a guest, and he made ready
great feasts, and he called forth all his nobles to do
honour unto Kai Khosrau, his son. And all the land
was decked in festal garb, and the world resembled
cloth of gold, and musk and amber perfumed the air,
and jewels were strewn about the streets like unto vile
dust.
Now when the Shah came nigh unto the city, Kai
Kaous went forth to meet him, and he prostrated
him in the dust before his son. But Kai Khosrau
suffered it not, but raised him, and he kissed him upon.
his cheeks, and he took his hand, and he told unto him
of all the wonders that he had beheld upon his travels,
and of the mighty deeds that had been done of Rustem
and his men. And Kai Kaous was filled with marvel at
his grandson, and he could not cease from praising him
and pouring gifts before his face. And when they had
feasted the army, and were sated with speech, they went
284
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
in unto the temple of Ormuzd and gave thanks unto
God for all His blessings.
Now while these things were passing in the land of
Iran, Afrasiyab wandered over the earth, and he knew
neither rest nor nourishment. And his soul was unquiet,
and his body was weary, and he feared danger on all
sides. And he roamed till that he found a cavern in the
side of a mountain, and he crept into it for rest. And
he remained a while within the cave pondering his evil
deeds, and his heart was filled with repentance. And
he prayed aloud unto God that He would grant him
forgiveness of his sins, and the cries of his sorrow rent
the air.
Now the sound thereof pierced even unto the ears
of Houm, a hermit of the race of Feridoun, who had
taken up his abode in the mountains. And Houm,
when he heard the cries, said within himself, "These
are lamentations of Afrasiyab." So he sought out
the spot whence they came forth, and when he had
found Afrasiyab he wrestled with him and caught him
in his snare. Then he bound him, and led him even
into Iran before the face of Kai Khosrau, that the Shah
might deal with him according to his desire.
Now when Afrasiyab was come before the Shah, Kai
Khosrau reproached him yet again with his vile deeds.
And when he had done speaking, he lifted up his sword
and he smote with it the neck of Afrasiyab, and he
severed his head from off his trunk, even as Afrasiyab
THE PASSING OF KAI KHOSRAU.
285
had done unto Saiawush, his father. And thus was the
throne of Turan made void of Afrasiyab, and his evil
deeds had in the end brought evil upon himself. And
Gersiwaz, whom the Shah had taken captive in the
battle, was witness of the fate of his brother. And
when he had looked upon the end of Afrasiyab, Kai
Khosrau lifted up the sword against him also, and
caused him to perish in like manner as he had slain
Saiawush.
And when it was done, and the vengeance was com-
plete, the Shah caused a writing to be sent unto all his
lands, and to every noble therein and every vassal, even
from the west unto the east. And he told unto them
therein how that the war of vengeance was ended, and
how that the earth was delivered of the serpent brood.
And he bade them think on the arts of peace and
deliver up their hearts to gladness. And when it was
done Kai Kaous made him ready to depart from the
world. So he gave thanks unto God that He had
suffered him to see the avenging of Saiawush accom-
plished, and he said—
"I have beheld my grandson, the light of mine eyes,
avenge me and himself. And now am I ready to go
forth unto Thee, for thrice fifty years have rolled
above my head, and my hair is white and my heart is
weary."
And after he had thus spoken Kai Kaous passed
away, and there remained of him in the world but the
286
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
memory of his name. Then Kai Khosrau mourned for
his grandsire as was fitting. But when the days of
mourning were ended he mounted again the throne
of the Kaianides, and for sixty years did Kai Khosrau
rule the world in equity, and wisdom flourished under
his hands. And wheresoever the Shah looked he beheld
that his hand was stretched out in gladness, and there
was peace in all the lands. Then he gave praise unto
God that He had suffered him to do these things. And
when he had done so he pondered within himself, and
he grew afraid lest Ahriman should get possession of his
soul, and lest he should grow uplifted in pride like unto
Jemshid, that forgot whence came his weal and the
source of his blessings. So he said within himself—
"It behoveth me to be careful, for I am sprung from
the race of Zohak, and perchance I may become a curse.
unto the earth, like to him. Wherefore I will entreat of
Ormuzd that He take me unto Himself before this evil
befall me, since there is no longer work for me to do on
earth."
Then he gave commandment to the keepers of the
curtains that they suffer no man to enter in upon him,
but he bade them refuse it with all kindness. And
when it was done Kai Khosrau withdrew him into
the inner courts, and he ungirded him of his sash of
might, and he laved his limbs in a running stream, and
he presented himself in prayer before God his Maker.
And for seven days the Shah stood in the presence of
THE PASSING OF KAI KHOSRAU.
287
Ormuzd, neither did he weary to importune Him in
prayer.
Now while he did so many great ones of Iran came
unto the courts of the Shah and demanded audience.
And it was refused them. Then they murmured among
themselves, and they marvelled why the thoughts of the
King should have grown dark in a time of good fortune.
And when they found that their importunity availed
them nought, they consulted among themselves what
they should do. Then Gudarz said—
“Let us send tidings of these things even unto Žal
and Rustem, and entreat of them that they come unto
our aid, for perchance Kai Khosrau will listen unto their
voice."
So Gew was sent forth unto Zaboulistan.
Now when he was gone, it came about that on a
certain day, when the sun had lifted his shield of gold
above the world, Kai Khosrau ordained that the curtains
of the audience-chamber be lifted. So there came in
unto him his Mubids and the nobles, and they stood about
his throne, and their hands were crossed in supplication.
Then Kai Khosrau, when he saw it, asked of them what
they desired. So they opened their mouths and said—
"May it please the Shah to tell unto us wherein we
have failed that we are shut out from his presence."
Then Kai Khosrau answered and said, "The fault is
not with you, and the sight of my nobles is a feast
unto mine eyes. But my heart hath conceived a
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
desire that will not be quieted, and it giveth me rest
neither by day nor by night, and I know not how it
will end. Yet the time is not ripe to tell unto you
my secrets, but verily I will speak when the hour is
come. Return, therefore, unto your homes, and be glad
in your spirits, and rejoice in the wine-cup, for no foe
troubleth the land, and prosperity hangeth over Iran.”
Then when he had so spoken, Kai Khosrau dismissed
them graciously. But when they were departed he gave
commandment that the curtains be closed, and that
no man be suffered to enter his courts. And he pre-
sented him yet again before God, and he prayed in the
fervour of his spirit, and he entreated of Ormuzd that
He would suffer him to depart from the world now that
his task therein was ended. For he beheld that this life
is but vanity, and he yearned to go hence unto his Maker.
And for the space of five weeks did Kai Khosrau stand
thus before his God, and he could neither eat nor sleep,
and his heart was disquieted.
Now it came about one night that Kai Khosrau fell
asleep for weariness. And there appeared unto him a
vision, and the Serosch, the angel of God, stood before
him. And he spake words of comfort to Kai Khosrau,
and he said that the Shah had done that which was right
in the sight of God, and he bade him prepare for his end,
and he said-
"Before thou goest hence choose from amongst thy
nobles a king that is worthy the throne. And let him
THE PASSING OF KAI KHOSRAU.
289
be a man that hath a care of all things that are created,
even unto the tiny emmet that creepeth along the ground.
And when thou hast ordered all things, the moment of
thy departure shall be come."
When Kai Khosrau awoke from his dream he rejoiced,
and poured out his thanks before God. Then he went
unto his throne and seated himself thereon, and got
together his treasures. And he ordered the world for
his departure.
Now while he did so, Zal and Rustem, his son, were
come unto the city, and their hearts were filled with sore
displeasure because of that which the nobles had told
unto them. And the army came forth to greet them,
and they wept sore, and prayed of Zal that he would
turn back unto them the heart of Kai Khosrau. And
they said, "A Deev hath led him astray." Then Zal and
Rustem went in before the Shah. And Kai Khosrau,
when he saw them, was amazed, but
he was glad also,
And he accorded
and he gave them his hand in greeting.
to them seats of honour, as was their due, and when he
had done so, he asked of them wherefore they were come
forth. Then Zal opened his mouth and spake, saying-
"I have heard, even in Zaboulistan, that the curtains of
the Shah are closed unto his servants. And the people
cry out thereat, and men say that Kai Khosrau is de-
parted from the path that is right. Wherefore I am
come forth to entreat of thee, if thou have a secret care,
that thou confide it to thy servant, and surely a device
T
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may be found. For since the days of Minuchihr there is
no Shah like to thee, but thy nobles are afraid lest thou
stumble in the paths of Zohak and Afrasiyab. Where-
fore they entreat of me that I admonish thee."
Now when Kai Khosrau had listened unto the voice
of Zal the aged, he was not angered, but he answered,
saying-
"O Zal, thou knowest not that whereof thou speak-
est. For I have withdrawn myself from men that I
might do no evil, and I have prayed unto God that
He take me unto Himself. And now is the Serosch
come unto me, and I know that Ormuzd hath listened
unto my voice."
When the nobles heard this they were afflicted, but
Zal was angered, and he deemed that the wits of Kai
Khosrau were distraught. And he said—
"Since I have stood before the throne of the Kaianides
no Shah hath spoken words like to thine. And I fear
that a Deev hath led thee astray, and I implore of thee
that thou listen not unto his voice, and that thou give
ear unto the words of an aged man, and that thou turn
thee back into the path that is right."
And when Zal had done speaking, the nobles cried
with one accord that he had spoken for them also. Then
Kai Khosrau was sorrowful, but he would not suffer anger
to come into his spirit. And when he had pondered,
he opened his mouth and spake, saying-
"O Zal, I have given ear unto the words which thou
THE PASSING OF KAI KHOSRAU.
291
hast spoken, give ear now unto the answer.
For I have
not departed from the paths of Ormuzd, and no Deev
hath led me astray. And I swear it unto thee, even by
God the Most High. But because I am sprung from
Afrasiyab the evil one, and am linked unto the race of
Zohak, I am afraid, and I fear to grow like to Jemshid
and Tur, who wearied the world with their oppressions.
And, behold, I have avenged my father, and have made
the world submissive unto my will; and I have estab-
lished justice in the realm, and the earth is glad, where-
fore there is no longer aught for me to do, for the power
of the wicked is broken. Therefore, lest I grow uplifted
in my soul, I have entreated of Ormuzd that He suffer
me now to go hence, even unto Himself. For I am
weary of the throne and of my majesty, and my soul
crieth for rest."
When Zal heard these words he was confounded,
for he knew that they were true. And he fell in the
dust before the Shah, and he craved his forgiveness for
the hard speech that he had spoken, and he wept,
saying-
"O Kai Khosrau, we desire not that thou go hence."
And the Shah accorded forgiveness unto the old man,
because of the great love he bare him; and he lifted
him from the ground and kissed him. And when he
had done so, he bade him go forth with Rustem. And
he commanded that the nobles and all their armies
should camp upon the plains. And Zal did as the
292
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Shah desired, and the hosts were encamped without the
doors.
Now when it was done, Kai Khosrau mounted
upon the crystal throne, and he held in his hand the
ox-headed mace, and he bare on his head the crown of
the Kaianides, and a sash of might was girded round
his loins. And on his right hand stood Rustem the
Pehliva, and on his left Zal the aged. And he lifted
up his voice and spake words of wisdom unto his army;
and he said unto them that the sojourn of man was
brief upon the earth, and that it became him to remem-
ber his end. And he said how he had also bethought
him of his death. And he spake, saying—
I have made me ready to depart, and my testament
will I speak before you. I will give richly unto those
that have wearied themselves in my service, and of those
to whom I owe gratitude I will speak unto God, and
implore of Him that He reward them according to their
deserts. And I give unto the Iranians my gold, and
my armour, and my jewels, and whosoever is great
among you to him do I give a province."
Thus for the space of seven days did the Shah sit
upon his throne and order his treasurer how he
should act. Then on the eighth he called before him.
Gudarz the wise, and he gave to him instructions.
And he bade him be kind unto the poor, and the
widowed, and the fatherless, and he entreated him
to dry the eye of care. Then he gave unto him
THE PASSING OF KAI KHOSRAU.
293
much treasure, and rendered unto him thanks for the
services that he had done before him. And he gave rich
gifts also unto Zal, and Gew, and Rustem, and to all
his nobles, according to their degree. And he desired
of them that they should ask a boon at his hands, and
whatsoever it was he gave it. And he spake, saying—
"May my memory be hateful unto none.”
Then he called before him Rustem, and praised the
mighty deeds that he had done, and he invoked the
blessings of heaven upon his Pehliva. And after many
days, when all these things were accomplished, the
Shah was weary, but his task was not yet fulfilled. For
there was one among the nobles whose name he had
not named. And the others knew thereof, but they
ventured not again to admonish Kai Khosrau, for they
were amazed at his wisdom and his justice, and they
saw that he did that which was right.
Now after some time the Shah opened his mouth and
called before him Byzun, and he said—
"Lead forth before me Lohurasp, who is sprung from
the seed of Husheng, the Shah."
And Byzun did as Kai Khosrau commanded.
Now when he had brought Lohurasp before the
throne, Kai Khosrau descended from its height, and he
gave his hand unto Lohurasp and blessed him. Then
he put upon his head the crown of the Kaianides and
saluted him Shah, and he said-
"May the world be submissive to thy will."
294
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
But the nobles, when they saw it, were confounded,
and they murmured among themselves that Lohurasp
should have the kingdom, and they questioned where-
fore they should pay allegiance unto him. Then Kai
Khosrau was angered, and he opened his lips, saying-
"Ye speak of that ye know not, and haste hath un-
bridled your tongues. For I say unto you that which I
have done I have done justly, and in the sight of God,
and I know that Lohurasp is a man worthy the throne,
and that Iran will prosper under his hands. And I
desire that ye salute him Shah, and whosoever regardeth
not this, my last desire, I hold him a rebel unto God,
and judgment shall fall upon him.”
Now Zal, when he heard these words, knew that they
were just. So he stepped out from among the nobles
and came before Lohurasp, and did obeisance unto him as
to the Shah. And the army, when they saw it, shouted
their homage also, and all the land of Iran was made
acquainted with the tidings.
Now when it was done, Kai Khosrau turned him to
his nobles, saying—
"I go now to prepare my spirit for death.” And
when he had so spoken he entered behind the curtains.
of his house. And he called before him his women,
and he told unto them how he should depart. And
they wept sore at the tidings. Then Kai Khosrau con-
fided them unto Lohurasp, and he gave to him safe
counsels, and he said—
THE PASSING OF KAI KHOSRAU.
295
"Be thou the woof and the warp of justice."
And when all was ready, he gat him upon his horse
to go forth into the mountains. And Lohurasp would
have gone also, but Kai Khosrau suffered it not. But
there went with him Zal and Rustem, Gudarz also, and
Gustahem and Gew, and Byzun the valiant, and Friburz,
the son of Kai Kaous, and Tus the Pehliva. And they
followed after him from the plains unto the crest of the
mountains. And they ceased not from mourning that
which was done of Kai Khosrau, and they said among
themselves that never had Shah done like unto him.
And they strove to change his purpose.
Khosrau said unto them—
But Kai
"All is well, wherefore weep ye and trouble my
spirit?"
Now when they were gone with him the space of seven
days, Kai Khosrau turned unto his nobles and spake,
saying-
"Return now upon the road that ye are come, for I
am about to enter in upon a path where neither herb
nor water can be found. Wherefore I entreat of you
that ye spare yourselves this weariness."
Then Zal and Rustem, and Gudarz the aged, listened
unto the voice of the Shah, for they knew that he spake
that which it became them to obey. But the others
refused ear unto his voice, and they followed after him
yet another day, but their force was spent in the desert.
Now when the evening of that day was come they
296
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
found a running stream. Then Kai Khosrau said, "Let
us halt in this spot." And when they were encamped he
spake unto them of the things that were past, and he
said unto them that when the sun should have lifted up
its face anew they should behold him no longer in their
midst, for the time of his departure was at hand. And
when the night was fallen he drew aside and bathed his
body in the water, and prayed unto God his Maker.
Then he came yet again before his nobles, and he
awakened them from their slumbers, and he spake unto
them words of parting. And he said—
"When the daylight shall be come back, I say unto
you, return upon your path, neither linger in this place,
though it should rain musk and amber, for out of the
mountains a great storm will arise that shall uproot the
trees and strip the leaves from off their branches. And
there shall come a fall of snow such as Iran hath not
seen the like. But if ye do not as I say unto you,
verily ye shall never find the path of return."
Now the nobles were troubled when they heard these
words, and the slumber that fell upon their eyelids was
filled with sorrow. But when the raven of night flew
upwards, and the glory of the world flooded the earth
with its light, Kai Khosrau was vanished from among
them, and they sought out his traces in vain. Now
when they beheld that he was gone, they wept in the
bitterness of their hearts, and Friburz spake, saying-
THE PASSING OF KAI KHOSRAU.
297
"O my friends, listen to the words that I shall speak.
I pray of you, let us linger yet a while in this spot, lest
peradventure Kai Khosrau should return. And since
it is good to be here, I know not wherefore we should
haste to depart."
And the nobles listened to his voice, and they en-
camped them on this spot, and they spake continually
of Kai Khosrau, and wept for him, but they forgot the
commandment that he had spoken. Now while they
slept there arose a mighty wind, and it brought forth
clouds, and the sky grew dark, and before the daylight
was come back unto the world the earth was wrapped
in snow like to a shroud, and none could tell the valleys
and the hills asunder. And the nobles, when they
awoke, knew not whither they should turn, and they
sought after their path in vain. And the snow fell
down upon them, and they could not free them of its
might, and though they strove against it, it rose above
their heads and buried them, and after a little the life
departed out of their bodies.
Now after many days, when Zal, and Rustem, and
Gudarz beheld that the nobles returned not, they grew
afraid and sent forth riders to seek them. And
the men searched long, but in the end they found
the bodies, and they bare them down into the plains.
And sore was the wailing in the army when they beheld
it, and a noble tomb was raised above their heads. But
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Lohurasp, when he learned that Kai Khosrau was
vanished, mounted the throne of the Kaianides. And
he called before him his people that they should do
allegiance unto him. And they did so, and the place
of Kai Khosrau knew him no more.
>
ISFENDIYAR.

OHURASP reigned in wisdom upon the crystal
throne, and Iran was as wax under his hands.
And men were content under his sway,
save only Gushtasp, his son, who was
rebellious of spirit. And Gushtasp was
angered because his father would not abandon unto
him the sovereignty. Wherefore, when he beheld that
his pleading was vain, he stole away from Iran and
sought out the land of Roum, and the city that Silim
his forefather had builded. And he did great deeds of
prowess in the land, so that the King gave unto him
his daughter to wife.
Now Lohurasp, when he learned of the mighty deeds
done of his son, strove to win him back unto himself.
So he sent forth messengers bearing words of greeting,
and entreated of Gushtasp that he would return unto the
courts of his father. And he sware unto him that if he
would listen unto his voice, he would abandon unto him
the throne. So Gushtasp listened to the voice of his
father, and he returned him unto Iran. And Lohurasp
stepped down from off the throne of the Kaianides and
300
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
gave place unto Gushtasp, his son. And one hundred and
twenty years had he reigned in equity, and now that it
was done he hid himself within the temples of Balkh,
that he might live in the sight of God, and make him
ready to meet his end. And Gushtasp, his son, ruled the
land worthily, and he administered justice in such wise
that sheep could drink at the same brook as the wolves.
Now when he had sat some while upon the throne,
there appeared in the land Zerdusht, the prophet of the
Most High. And he came before the Shah and taught
him, and he went out in all the land and gave unto the
people a new faith. And he purged Iran of the might
of Ahriman. He reared throughout the realm a tree
of goodly foliage, and men rested beneath its branches.
And whosoever ate of the leaves thereof was learned
in all that regardeth the life to come, but whosoever
ate of the branches was perfect in wisdom and faith,
And Zerdusht gave unto men the Zendavesta, and he
bade them obey its precepts if they would attain ever-
lasting life.
But tidings concerning Zerdusht were come even unto
Arjasp, who sat upon the throne of Afrasiyab, and he
said within himself, "This thing is vile." So he refused
ear unto the faith, and he sent a writing unto Gushtasp,
wherein he bade him return unto the creed of his fathers.
And he said-
"If thou turn thee not, make thee ready for combat;
for verily I say unto thee, that unless thou cast out
ISFENDIYAR.
301
Zerdusht, this man of guile, I will overthrow thy king-
dom and seat me upon thy throne."
When Gushtasp heard the haughty words that Arjasp
had spoken, he marvelled within himself. Then he
called before him a scribe, and sent back answer unto
Arjasp. And he said that he would deliver up unto the
sword whosoever swerved from the paths of Zerdusht,
and whosoever would not choose them, him also would he
destroy. And he bade him, therefore, get ready to meet
Iran in battle. Then when he had sent this writing,
Gushtasp got together his hosts and mustered them, and
he beheld that they outnumbered the grass upon the
fields. And the dust that uprose from their feet darkened
the sky, and the neighing of their horses and the clash-
ing of their armour were heard above the music of the
cymbals. And the banners pierced the clouds like to
trees that grow upon a mountain. And Gushtasp gave
the command of this host unto Isfendiyar, his son.
And Isfendiyar was a hero of renown, and his tongue
was a bright sword, and his heart was bounteous as
the ocean, and his hands were like the clouds when rain
falls to gladden the earth. And he took the lead of the
army, and he led it forth into Turan.
Now when the men of Turan and of Iran met in con-
flict, a great battle was waged between them, and for the
space of twice seven days they did not cease from com-
bat, neither did any of the heroes close their eyes in
slumber. And their rage was hot one against another,
302
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
but in the end the might of Iran overcame, and Arjasp
fled before the face of Isfendiyar.
Then Isfendiyar returned him unto Iran, and pre-
sented himself before his father, and demanded a bless-
ing at his hands. But Gushtasp said-
"The time is not yet come when thou shouldest
mount the throne."
So he sent him forth yet again that he might turn all
the lands unto the faith of Zerdusht. And Isfendiyar
did as Gushtasp commanded.
Now while he was gone forth there came before the
Shah one Gurjam, who was of evil mind and foe unto
Isfendiyar. And he spake ill of Isfendiyar unto his
father, and he said unto Gushtasp that his son strove to
wrest from him the sovereignty. And Gushtasp, when he
learned it, was wroth, and he sent forth messengers that
they should search out Isfendiyar, and bring him before
the Shah in the assembly of the nobles. And when
Isfendiyar was come, Gushtasp spake not unto him in
greeting, but he turned him to his nobles, and he recounted
unto them a parable. Then he told unto them of a son
who sought to put to death his father, and he asked of
them what punishment this father should mete out unto
his child. And the nobles cried with one accord—
"This thing which thou relatest unto us, it is not right,
and if there be a son so evil, let him be put into chains
and cast in bondage."
Then Gushtaspsaid, "Let Isfendiyar be put into chains.'
ISFENDIYAR.
303
And Isfendiyar opened his mouth in vain before his
father, for Gushtasp would not listen unto his voice. So
they cast him out into a dungeon, and chains of weight
were hung upon him, and the daylight came not nigh
unto him, neither did joy enter into his heart. And he
languished many years, and the heart of the Shah was
not softened towards him.
Now when Arjasp learned that the might of Isfendi-
yar was fettered, and that Gushtasp was given over to
pleasures, he gathered together an army to fall into Iran
and avenge the defeat that was come upon his hosts. So
he fell upon Balkh before any were aware of it, and he
put to death Lohurasp the Shah, and he made captive the
daughters of Gushtasp. And Arjasp threw fire into the
temples of Zerdusht, and did much destruction unto the
city, and it was some while ere Gushtasp learned that
which he had done. But when he had news thereof he
was dismayed, and he called together his army and put
himself at their head. But the Turanians were mightier
than he, and they routed him utterly, and Gushtasp fled
before their face. Then the Shah called together his
nobles, and consulted with them how he should act in
these sore straits. And one among them who was wise
above the rest said—
"I counsel thee that thou release Isfendiyar, thy son,
and that thou give to him the command, for he alone
can deliver the land."
And Gushtasp said, "I will do as thou sayest, and if
304
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Isfendiyar shall deliver us from this foe, I will abandon
unto him the throne and the crown."
Then he sent messengers unto Isfendiyar that they
should unbind his chains. But Isfendiyar, when they
came before him, closed ear unto their voice. And he
said-
"
My father hath kept me in bondage until he hath
need of me. Why therefore should I weary me in his
cause? I will not go unto his aid.”
Then the men reasoned with him, and they told unto
him how it had been revealed unto Gushtasp that the
words spoken of Gurjam were false, and that he had
sworn that he would deliver this man of false words
unto the vengeance of his son. But Isfendiyar was
deaf yet again to their voice. Then one spake and
said-
"Thou knowest not that thy brother is in bondage
unto Arjasp. Surely it behoveth thee to deliver him.”
When Isfendiyar heard these words he sprang unto
his feet, and he commanded that the chains be struck
from off his limbs. And because the men were slow, he
was angered, and shook himself mightily, so that the
fetters fell down at his feet. Then he made haste to
go before his father. And peace was made between
them on that day, and Gushtasp sware a great oath
that he would give the throne unto Isfendiyar when he
should return unto him victorious.
So Isfendiyar went out against the foes of Iran, and
ISFENDIYAR.
305
he mowed them down with the sword, and he caused
arrows to rain upon them like hail in spring, and
the sun was darkened by the flight of the weapons.
And he brake the power of Arjasp, King of Turan, and
he drove him out from the borders of the realm. And
when it was done, and the men of Iran had prevailed
over the men of Turan, Isfendiyar presented himself
before his father and craved of him the fulfilment of his
promises. But Gushtasp, when he beheld that all was
well once more, repented him of his resolve, for he desired
not to give the throne unto his son. So he pondered in
his spirit what he should say in his excuse, and he was
ashamed in his soul. But his mouth revealed not the
thoughts of his heart, and he spake angrily unto his son,
and he said-
"I marvel that thou comest before me with this
demand; for while thy sisters languish in the bondage of
Arjasp, it beseemeth us not to hold this war as ended,
lest men mock us with their tongues. And it hath been
told unto me that they are hidden in the brazen fortress,
and that Arjasp and all his men are gone in behind its
walls. I charge thee, therefore, overthrow the castle and
deliver thy sisters who pine. And I swear unto thee,
when thou hast done it, I will abandon unto thee the
throne, and thy name shall be exalted in the land."
Then Isfendiyar said, "I am the servant of the Shah,
let him command his slave what he shall do."
And Gushtasp said, "Go forth."
U
306
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
Then Isfendiyar answered, "I go, but the road is not
known unto me."
And Gushtasp said, "A Mubid hath revealed it unto
me. Three roads lead unto the fortress of brass, and
the one requireth three months to traverse, but it is safe,
and much pasture is found on its path. And the second
demandeth but two moons, yet it is a desert void of
herbs. And the third asketh but seven days, but it is
fraught with danger."
Then Isfendiyar said, “No man can die before his
time is come. It behoveth a man of valour to choose
ever the shortest path."
Now the Mubids and the nobles who knew the
dangers that were hidden in this path sought to deter
him, but Isfendiyar would not listen to their voice. So
he set forth with his army, and they marched until they
came to the spot where the roads divided. Now it
needed seven stages to reach the fortress of Arjasp, and
at each stage there lurked a danger, and never yet had
any man overcome them or passed beneath its walls.
But Isfendiyar would not give ear to fear, and he set
forth upon the road, and each day he overcame a danger,
and each danger was greater than the last. And on the
first day he slew two raging wolves, and on the second
he laid low two evil Deevs that were clothed as lions,
and on the third he overcame a dragon whose breath
was poison. And on the fourth day Isfendiyar slew a
great magician who would have lured him into the
ISFENDIYAR.
307
paths of evil, and on the fifth he slew a mighty bird
whom no man had ever struck down. And weariness
was not known of Isfendiyar, neither could he rest from
his labours, for there was no camping-place in this
road of danger. And on the sixth day he was nigh to
have perished with his army in a deep snow that fell
upon him through the might of the Deevs. But he
prayed unto God in his distress, and by the favour of
heaven the snow vanished from under his feet. Then
on the seventh day he came nigh to perish in a flood
of waters, but Isfendiyar overcame them also, and
stood before the castle of Arjasp. Now when he beheld
it, his heart failed within him, for he saw that it was
compassed by a wall of brass, and the thickness thereof
was such that four horsemen could ride thereon abreast.
So he sighed and said—
"This place cannot be taken, my pains have been
in vain."
Yet he pondered in his spirit how it might be done,
and he knew that only wile could avail. Where-
fore he disguised himself in the garb of a merchant, and
chose forth from his army a hundred camels, and
he loaded them with brocades of Roum and much
treasure. A hundred and sixty stalwart warriors too
did he choose forth, and he seated them in chests, and
the chests he bound upon the backs of the camels. And
when the caravan was ready he marched at its head
unto the doors of the fortress.
308
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
men.
Now when he was come thither, he craved permission
of Arjasp that he might enter and sell unto them that
dwelt therein. And Arjasp granted his request, and gave
unto him houseroom, and bade him barter his wares in
safety. Then Isfendiyar spread forth his goods and un-
loaded the treasures of the camels, but the chests where-
in were hidden the warriors did he keep from the eyes of
And after he had sojourned a while in the castle
he beheld his sisters, and he saw that they were held
as slaves, and his heart went out towards them. So he
spake to them tenderly, and they knew his voice and
that help was come out to them, but they held their
peace and made no sign. And Isfendiyar, when he saw
that he was trusted of Arjasp, came before him and
asked of him a boon. And Arjasp said that he would
grant it. Then Isfendiyar said—
"Suffer that ere I go hence I may feast thee and thy
nobles, that I may show my gratitude."
And it was done as Isfendiyar desired, and he made
a great feast and troubled the heads of the nobles with
wine. And when their heads were heavy and the moon
was seated upon her silver throne, Isfendiyar arose and
let forth his warriors from the chests. Then he fell
upon the nobles and slew them, and they weltered in
their blood. And with his own hand Isfendiyar struck
down Arjasp, and he hung up his sons upon high
gallows. Then he made signals unto his army that
they should come forth to aid him, for there were yet
ISFENDIYAR.
309
many men hidden in the fort, and Isfendiyar had but
a handful wherewith to withstand them. And they did
as he desired, and there was a great slaughter within
the brazen fort, but Isfendiyar bare off the victory.
Then he took with him his sisters and much booty, and
made haste to return unto Iran, and come into the
presence of Gushtasp, his father. And the Shah rejoiced
in his sight, and he made a great feast, and gave gifts
richly unto all his servants. And the mouths of men
overflowed with the doughty deeds done of Isfendiyar,
and there was gladness throughout the land.
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR.

HEN a little while had been passed in feast-
ing, Isfendiyar came before Gushtasp,
his father, and demanded the fulfilment
of the promises that he had made unto
him. And he recalled unto Gushtasp how he had mis-
trusted him and thrown him into chains. And he spake
of the doughty deeds that he had done at his behest,
and he craved him to remember that Isfendiyar was his
son. And Gushtasp knew that that which was spoken
was right, but he desired not to abandon the throne.
Wherefore he communed within him what he should do.
Then he opened his mouth and spake, saying-
'Verily thou hast done that which thou sayest, and
there is none who is thine equal in this world, save only
Rustem, the son of Zal. And he acknowledgeth none
his like. Now because he is grown proud in his spirit,
and hath rendered no homage unto me, neither is
come forth to aid me against Arjasp, I desire that thou
go forth unto Zaboulistan, and that thou lead out the
Pehliva, and bring him bound before me, that he may
know that I am the Shah, and that he must do
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR.
311
my behests.
And when thou shalt have done it, I
swear unto thee by Him from whom cometh all strength,
and who hath kindled the sun and the stars unto light,
that I will step down from the throne, neither withhold
it from thee any longer."
Then Isfendiyar said, “O King, I would entreat of
thee that thou ponder the words that thou hast spoken.
For thine ancestors held this old man, ripe in wisdom,
in much honour, and he was a staff unto their throne.
Now since thou calledst him not forth, it was not fitting
he should aid thee against Turan."
But Gushtasp would not listen unto the words of
Isfendiyar, and he said—
"If thou lead not Rustem bound before me, I will not
grant unto thee the throne."
Then Isfendiyar said, “Thou sendest me forth in guile
on this emprise, for verily no man hath stood against the
might of Rustem, wherefore I perceive that thou desirest
not to abandon unto me the throne. I say unto thee,
therefore, that I desire it no longer; but since I am thy
slave, it beseemeth me to obey thy behests. I go forth
therefore, and if peradventure I fall before Rustem, thou
wilt answer unto God for my blood.”
And when he had so spoken, Isfendiyar went out of
the presence of the Shah, and he was exceeding sorrow-
ful. Then he gathered together an army, and he set
forth upon the road that leadeth to Seistan.
Now when they were gone but a little way, the camel
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
that walked at their head laid him down in the dust.
And the drivers struck him, but he would not rise
from the earth. Then Isfendiyar said, "The omen.
is evil.” But he commanded the driver that he cut
off the head, that the evil might fall upon the beast,
and tarnish not the glory of the Shah. And it
was done as Isfendiyar desired, but he could not rid
him of his sadness, and he pondered in his spirit this
sign.
Now when they were come unto the land of Zaboulis-
tan, Isfendiyar spake, saying—
"I will send an envoy unto Rustem, a man prudent
and wise. And I will entreat of the Pehliva that he
come before me with gladness, for I desire no evil unto
him, and I come forth only at the behest of the Shah."
Then he called before him Bahman, his son, and he
spake long unto him, and he charged him with a message
unto Rustem. And he bade him speak unto the son of
Zal how Gushtasp was angered because he sought not
his courts, wherefore he deemed that Rustem was grown
proud in his spirit, and would uplift himself above his
Shah. And he said-
The King hath sent me out that I lead thee before
him. I pray thee, therefore, come unto me, and I swear
unto thee that no harm shall befall thee at his hands.
For when I shall have led thee before him, I will
demand as my guerdon that he suffer thee to go un-
harmed."
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR.
313
So Bahman laid up these words in his spirit, and he
went with all speed unto the courts of Rustem. Now,
he found therein none but Zal, for Rustem was gone
forth with his warriors to chase the wild ass. And Zal
came forth with courtesy to greet Bahman, and he asked
of him his desires, and he invited him unto a feast.
But Bahman said—
"My mission doth admit of no delay.
Isfendiyar
hath bidden me not tarry by the road. Tell me, there-
fore, where I may find thy son.”
Then Zal showed unto him the way.
Now when Bahman was come unto the spot, he
beheld a man like unto a mountain, who was roasting
a wild ass for his supper. And in his hand was a
wine-cup, and about him stood brave knights. Then
Bahman said within himself, "Surely this is Rustem,"
and he watched him from where he was hid, and he
beheld that Rustem devoured the whole of a wild ass
for his meal, and he was amazed at the might and
majesty of this man. Then he thought within him,
"Peradventure if I cast down a rock upon him, I may
slay him, for surely even Isfendiyar, my father, shall not
withstand his strength." So he loosened a rock from the
mountain-side, and set it rolling unto the spot where
Rustem was encamped. Now Zevarah heard the sound
thereof, and beheld the rock, and he said unto Rustem-
Behold a rock that springeth forth from the moun-
tain-side."
314
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
But Rustem smiled, and arose not from his seat; and
when the rock was upon him, he lifted up his foot and
threw it far unto the other side. Then Bahman was
amazed, but he was affrighted also, and he dared not
come forth at once. Yet when he was come before
the Pehliva, Rustem greeted him kindly, and would.
have entertained him. And Bahman suffered it, and
he marvelled yet again when he beheld that which was
eaten of Rustem, and he was afraid. Then he delivered
unto him the message of Isfendiyar, his father. And
Rustem listened unto it, and when it was ended he
spake, saying-
"Bear greeting unto the hero of renown, and say unto
him that I have longed to look upon his face, and that
I rejoice that he is come forth unto Zaboulistan. But
his demand is the device of Deevs, and I would counsel
him that he depart not from the paths of wisdom. And
I say unto him, Count not upon thy strength, for it is
given to no man to shut up the winds within a cage,
neither can any man stand against my might.
And
I have ever done that which was right before the Shahs,
thy fathers, and no man hath beheld Rustem in chains.
Therefore thy demand is foolish, and I bid thee abandon
it, and honour my house with thy presence. And when
we shall have feasted, I will go forth with thee before
Gushtasp, thy father, and the reins of my horse shall be
tied unto thine throughout the journey. And when I
shall be come before the Shah, and shall have taken
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR.
315
counsel with him, I know that his anger against me,
which is unjust, will vanish like unto smoke.”
Then Rustem sent a messenger unto Rudabeh, his
mother, to make ready a great feast in his courts. And
Bahman sped back unto his father.
Now Isfendiyar, when he had listened unto the words
sent by Rustem, mounted his steed, and rode forth
to meet him. And Rustem was come forth also, and
they met beside the stream. Then Rakush swam across
its breadth, and the hero of the world stood before
Isfendiyar, and he greeted him, and did homage unto
the son of his Shah. And Rustem rejoiced in the sight
of Isfendiyar, and he deemed that he beheld in him the
face of Saiawush. And he said unto him-
"O young man, let us commune together concerning
the things that divide us."
And Isfendiyar assented unto the desires of Rustem,
and he pressed him unto his bosom, and his eyes could
not cease from gazing upon his strength. Then Rustem
said-
"O hero, I have a prayer to make before thee; I crave
that thou enter into my house as my guest."
And Isfendiyar said, "I cannot listen unto thy de-
mand, for the Shah commanded me neither to rest.
nor tarry until I should have brought thee unto him in
chains. But I entreat of thee that thou consider that
the chains of the King of Kings do not dishonour, and
that thou listen willingly unto the desires of the Shah,
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
for I would not lift my hand in anger against thee, and
I am grieved that it hath been given unto me to do this
thing. But it behoveth me to fulfil the commandments
of my father."
Thus spake Isfendiyar in the unquietude of his spirit,
for he knew that what was demanded of Rustem was
not fitting or right. And Rustem replied, saying—
"It would be counted shame unto me if thou shouldst
refuse to enter into my house. I pray thee, therefore,
yet again that thou accede to my desires, and when it
shall be done I will do that which thou desirest, save
only that I cannot submit unto the chains. For no man
hath beheld me fettered, neither shall any do so while
I draw my breath. I have spoken, and that which I
have said, it is true."
And Isfendiyar said, "I may not feast with thee, and
if thou listen not to my voice, I must fall upon thee in
enmity. But to-day let there be a truce between us,
and drink thou with me in my tents.”
And Rustem said, "I will do so gladly, suffer only
that I go forth and change my robes, for I am clad for
the chase. And when thy meal shall be ready, send
forth a messenger that he may lead me thither."
And when he had so spoken, Rustem leaped upon
Rakush and returned unto his courts. Now when he had
arrayed himself for the banquet, he awaited the envoy
that Isfendiyar should send. But Isfendiyar was full of
cares, and he said unto Bashuntan, his brother-
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR.
317
"We have regarded this affair too lightly, for it is full
of danger. Wherefore I have no place in the house of
Rustem, neither should he enter into mine, for the sword
must decide our strife. For which cause I shall not bid
him unto my feast."
Then Bashuntan answered and said, “A Deev hath led
thee astray, O my brother, for it is not fitting that men
like unto Rustem and Isfendiyar should meet in enmity.
Wherefore I counsel thee that thou listen not unto our
father, for his desires are evil, and he seeketh but to
ensnare thee. Yet thou art wiser than he; abandon,
therefore, this device of evil."
But Isfendiyar answered and said, "If I obey not the
words of the King, my father, it will be a reproach unto
me in this world, and I shall have to render account for
it in the next before God, my Maker. And I would not
lose both worlds because of Rustem."
Then Bashuntan said, "I have given unto thee counsel
according to my wisdom, it resteth with thee to do as
thou desirest."
Then Isfendiyar bade the cooks serve before him the
banquet, but he sent not forth to call Rustem unto the
feast.
Now Rustem, when he had waited a long while and
beheld that Isfendiyar sent not to call him forth, was
angered, and he said-
"Is this the courtesy of a King?"
And he sprang upon Rakush and rode unto the tents
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
of the prince that he might question him wherefore he
regarded Rustem thus lightly. Now the warriors of
Iran, when they beheld the Pehliva, murmured among
themselves against Gushtasp, and they spake as with the
voice of one man, that surely the Shah was bereft of
reason or he would not thus send Isfendiyar unto death.
And they said—
"Gushtasp loveth yet more his treasures and his
throne as age creepeth upon him, and this is but a
device to preserve them unto himself.”
Now Rustem, when he had presented himself before
Isfendiyar, spake and said-
"O young man, it would seem unto me that thou
didst not deem thy guest worthy a messenger. Yet I
say unto thee that it is I who have made the throne of
Iran to shine out unto all the world, and I have ever
been the Pehliva of its Shahs, and have endured much
pain and toil for their sakes. And I have not passed a
day save in doing that which is right, and I have purged
the land of its enemies. I am the protector of the Kings
of Iran, and the mainstay of the good in all places of
the earth. Wherefore it behoveth thee not to treat me
thus disdainfully."
Then Isfendiyar said, "O Rustem, be not angered
against me, but listen wherefore I. sent not forth to call
thee. For the day was hot and the road long, and I
bethought me that fatigue would come upon thee from
this course. Therefore I had resolved to visit thee in
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR.
319
the morning. But since thou hast taken upon thee this
fatigue, I pray of thee that thou rest within my tents, and
that we empty the wine-cup together."
Then he made a place for him at his left hand.
But Rustem said, "This is not my place. It is not
fitting that I should sit upon thy left, for my seat hath
ever been at the right hand of the Shah."
Then Isfendiyar bade a chair of gold be brought, and
he caused it to be placed upon his right, and he bade
Rustem be seated upon it. And Rustem sat him
down, but he was angered in his spirit because of the
dishonour that Isfendiyar had shown unto him.
Now when they had drunk together awhile, Isfendiyar
lifted up his voice and said—
"O Rustem, it hath been told unto me that thine
origin is evil, for thou art sprung from a Deev whom
Saum cast forth from his house. And he was reared of
a vile bird, and his nourishment was garbage."
Then Rustem said, "Why speakest thou words that
do hurt?" And he told unto him of his father, and
Saum, and Neriman who was of the race of Husheng the
Shah. And he vaunted the great deeds done of his
house, and he hid not that which he had accomplished
himself, and he said—
"Six hundred years have passed since I came forth
from the loins of Zal, and for that space I have been the
Pehliva of the world, and have feared neither that which
was manifest, nor that which was hid.
And I speak
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
these things that thou mayest know. Thou art the
King, and they that carry high their heads are thy
subjects, but thou art new unto the world, wherefore
thou knowest not the things that are come to pass.”
When Isfendiyar had listened unto the words of
Rustem, he smiled and spake, saying-
"I have given ear unto thy voice, give ear now also
unto the words that I shall speak."
Then he vaunted him of his forefathers, and he re-
counted unto Rustem how that he had overcome the
Turks, and how Gushtasp had cast him into chains,
and he told him of the seven stations, and that he
had converted the world unto the faith of Zerdusht.
And he said-
"We have spoken enough concerning ourselves, let us
drink until we be weary."
But Rustem said, "Not so, for thou hast not heard all
the deeds that I have done, for they are many, and the
ear sufficeth not to hear them, nor the mouth to tell.
For if thou knewest them, thou wouldest not exalt thy-
self above me, or think to cast me into chains."
And he recounted to him yet again of his deeds of
might.
But Isfendiyar said, "I entreat of thee that thou
apply thyself unto the wine-cup, for verily thou shalt
fall to-morrow in the fight, and the days of thy feasting
shall be ended."
And Rustem answered, "Boast not thus rashly, thou
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR.
321
shalt yet repent thee of thy words.
But to-morrow will
we meet in conflict since thou desirest it, and when I
shall have lifted thee from off thy saddle, I will bear
thee unto my house and spread a feast before thee, and
pour upon thee my treasures. And when it shall be
done, I will return with thee unto the courts of the
Shah, thy father, and uproot from his spirit this plant of
evil. And when thou shalt be mounted into his seat,
I will serve thee with gladness as thy Pehliva."
But Isfendiyar said, "Thy words are idle, and we
waste but our breath in talk of combat. Let us there-
fore apply us to the banquet."
And they did so, and ate and drank until the night
was far spent, and all men were amazed at the hunger
of Rustem.
Now when it was time for him to depart, he prayed
Isfendiyar yet again that he would be his guest, and yet
again Isfendiyar refused it to him, and he said—
"Suffer that I put chains about thee, and lead thee
forth into Iran, that Gushtasp be satisfied. But if thou
wilt not do this thing, I must attack thee with the
spear."
Now Rustem, when he heard these words, was sorrow-
ful in his soul. And he thought within him-
"If I suffer these chains it is a stain that cannot be
wiped out, and I cannot outlive my dishonour, for men
will mock at Rustem, who permitted a boy to lead him
bound. Yet if I slay this youth, I do evil, for he is son
X
322
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
unto the Shah, and my glory will be tarnished, for men
will say I lifted my hand against a Kaianide. And
there can arise no good out of this combat. Wherefore
I will strive yet again to win him unto wisdom."
So he lifted up his voice and said, "I pray thee
listen not to the counsel of Deevs, and shut thy lips
concerning these chains. For it seemeth unto me that
Gushtasp desireth evil against thee, that he sendeth thee
forth against Rustem, the unvanquished in fight. Dis-
honour, therefore, not the champion of thy fathers, but
feast within my gates, and let us ride forth in friendship
unto Iran."
But Isfendiyar said, "I charge thee, old man, that
thou waste not words concerning this thing, for I will
not disobey the behests of my father. Prepare, there-
fore, for combat; for to-morrow I will make the world
dark unto thine eyes."
Then Rustem said, "O foolish youth! when I grasp
my mace, the head of my foe is lost. Prepare thee
rather for thine end."
And when he had so spoken, he rode forth from out
the tents of Isfendiyar, and he was exceeding sorrowful.
But Isfendiyar smiled after him and said-
"The mother that hath borne thee shall weep. I will
cast thee down from Rakush, I will lead thee bound
into Iran."
But once again did Bashuntan come before Isfendiyar,
and he pleaded with him for Rustem, and he bade him
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR.
323
remember the great deeds that he had done unto Iran, and
he desired him not to lift his hand against the Pehliva.
But Isfendiyar said—
'He is a thorn in my rose-garden, and through him
alone can I attain unto the throne. Strive not, there-
fore, to hinder me, for thy pains will be in vain. For
Zerdusht hath spoken that whosoever honoureth not
the behests of his king, he shall surely suffer the pains
of hell. And my father hath told unto me to do this
thing, and though I grieve to do hurt unto Rustem, the
desires of the Shah must be accomplished."
Then Bashuntan sighed and said, "Alas! a Deev hath
taken possession of thy spirit."
Now Rustem, when he was come into his house, com-
manded that his leopard skin should be brought before
him, and his helmet of Roum, his spear of Ind also, and
the war garb of Rakush. And when he saw them, he
said-
"O my raiment of battle, ye have rested a long time
from strife, yet now must I take you forth again to com-
bat, and it is for the hardest fight that ye have fought.
For I must lift my hand against the son of my master,
or suffer that he disgrace me in the sight of men.”
And Rustem was sad, and all night he spake unto
Zal of his end, and what he should do if he fell in battle.
Then when the morning was come he girded on his
armour, but he resolved in his spirit that he would strive
again with Isfendiyar in words. So he rode forth unto
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
the tents of the young King; and when he was come
nigh unto them he shouted with a loud voice. And
he said-
"O Isfendiyar, hero of great renown, the man with
whom thou wouldst wrestle is come forth; make thee
ready, therefore, to meet him."
Then Isfendiyar came out from his tents, and he was
armed for battle. Now when they were met, Rustem
opened his mouth and prayed him yet again that he
would stay his hand from this impiety. And he said—
"If thy soul thirsteth after blood and the tumult of
battle, suffer that our hosts meet in combat, that thy
desires may be satisfied."
But Isfendiyar said, "Thy talk is folly; thou art
armed for the conflict, let not the hours be lost."
Then Rustem sighed and made him ready for combat.
And he assailed Isfendiyar with his lance, but with a
nimble stroke Isfendiyar resisted his attack. And they
fought with their lances until they were bent, and when
that was done they betook them unto swords. And
ever the heroes parried the strokes that were dealt.
And when their swords were broken they seized upon
maces, but either hero warded off the blows. And they
fought until that their shields were rent and their
helmets dinted with the blows, and their armour was
pierced in many places. And it was a bitter fight. But
the end thereof came not, and they were weary, and
neither had gained the upper hand. So they rested
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR.
325
them awhile from combat. But when they were rested
they fell again one on another, and they fought with
arrows and bows. And the arrows of Isfendiyar whizzed
through the air and fastened into the body of Rustem
and of Rakush his steed; and twice thirty arrows did
Isfendiyar thus send forth, until that Rakush was like
to perish from his wounds. And Rustem also was
covered with gore, and no man before this one had ever
done harm unto his body. But the arrows of Rustem
had done no ill unto Isfendiyar, because Zerdusht had
charmed his body against all dangers, so that it was like
unto brass.
Now Isfendiyar, when he beheld that Rustem stag-
gered in his seat, called out unto him to surrender him-
self into his hands and suffer chains to be put about his
body. But Rustem said-
"Not so, I will meet thee again in the morning," and
he turned and swam across the stream, so that Isfendiyar
was amazed, for he knew that the steed and rider had been
sore wounded. And he exulted in his heart, and he re-
viled Rustem with his lips, but in his soul he was filled with
wonder at the Pehliva, and his heart went out to him.
Now when Zal and Rudabeh beheld the Pehliva and
that he was wounded, they rent the air with their cries,
for never yet was he returned unto them vanquished,
neither had any man done hurt unto the elephant-
limbed. And they wailed sore in their distress, and
Rustem joined his lamentations unto theirs. Then they
326
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
pondered how they should act, and Zal bethought him
of the Simurgh that had been his nurse, and the feather
that she had given him from her breast that he might
call upon her in the day of his need. So he brought it
and cast it into the fire as she had commanded, and
straightway a sound of rushing wings filled the air and
the sky was darkened, and the bird of God stood before
Zal. And she spake and said unto him-
'O my son, what is come about that thou callest
upon thy nurse that shielded thee.”
Then Zal told her all, and how Rustem was nigh to
die of his wounds, and how Rakush too was sick unto
death. Then the Simurgh said—
"
'Bring me before them.”
And when she had seen them, she passed her wings.
over their hurts and forthwith they were whole. Then
she spake unto Rustem and questioned him wherefore
he sought to combat the son of the Shah, and Rustem
told her. Then she said—
"Seek yet again to turn Isfendiyar unto thyself; yet if
he listen not unto thy voice, I will reveal unto thee the
secrets of Fate. For it is written that whosoever shed-
deth the blood of Isfendiyar, he also shall perish; and
while he liveth he shall not know joy, and in the life to
come he shall suffer pains. But if this fate dismay thee
not, go forth with me and I will teach thee this night
how thou shalt close the mouth of thine enemy."
Then the Simurgh showed unto Rustem the way he
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR.
327
should follow, and Rustem rode after her, and they
halted not until they were come unto the sea-coast. And
the Simurgh led him into a garden wherein grew a
tamarisk, tall and strong, and the roots thereof were in
the ground, but the branches pierced even unto the sky.
Then the bird of God bade Rustem break from the tree
a branch that was long and slender, and fashion it into
an arrow, and she said—
"Only through his eyes can Isfendiyar be wounded.
If, therefore, thou wouldst slay him, direct this arrow
unto his forehead, and verily it shall not miss its aim.”
Then she exhorted him once more that he bring this
matter to a good end, and she led him on the path of
return unto Zaboulistan, and when he was come there
she blessed him and departed from out his sight.
Now when the morning was come, Rustem came unto
the camp of Isfendiyar, and he was mounted upon
Rakush his steed. And Isfendiyar slumbered, for he
thought that of a surety Rustem was perished of his
wounds. Then Rustem lifted up his voice, and
cried-
"O man, eager to fight, wherefore slumberest thou
when Rustem standeth before thee?"
Now Isfendiyar, when he heard his voice and saw that
it was truly Rustem that stood before him, was amazed,
and he said unto his nobles-
"This is the deed of Zal the sorcerer."
But unto Rustem he cried, " Make ready for combat;
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THE EPIC OF KINGS.
for this day thou shalt not escape my might. May thy
name perish from off the earth."
Then Rustem spake, saying—
"I am not come forth to battle, but to treaty. Turn
aside thine heart from evil, and root out this enmity.
Make not, I pray thee, thy soul to be a dwelling-place
for Deevs. And suffer that I recall unto thee the
deeds I have done for Iran, and the list thereof is long.
And feast this day within my house, and let us ride
forth together unto the courts of the Shah, that I may
make my peace with Gushtasp thy father."
But Isfendiyar was angered at these words, and he
said-
"Wilt thou never cease from speaking? Thou ex-
hortest me to quit the paths of God, for I do wrong
when I obey not the voice of my father. Choose, there-
fore, betwixt chains and the combat.”
When Isfendiyar had so spoken, Rustem knew that
his speech was of no avail. So he sighed and made
ready for combat; and he took forth the arrow that was
given to him of the Simurgh, and he let it fly towards
his enemy. And it pierced the eye of the young King,
and he fell upon the mane of his steed, and his blood
reddened the field of battle. Then Rustem said unto
him-
"The bitter harvest thou hast sown hath borne fruit."
Now Isfendiyar swooned in his agony and fell upon
the ground. And there came out to him his brother
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR.
329
·
and Bahman, his son; and they wailed when they
beheld how his plight was evil. But when he was
come unto himself, he called after Rustem, and the
Pehliva got him down from Rakush and came unto
where he lay, and knelt beside him. And Isfendiyar
said-
((
My life ebbeth unto the close, wherefore I would
confide unto thee my wishes. And thou shalt behold
how greatly I honour thee, for it is not thou that hast
brought me unto death, but Gushtasp, my father; and
verily the curse of the prophet shall fall upon his head,
for thou wert but the instrument of Fate. And listen
now unto the words that I shall speak, for it is not
given unto me to say many-I desire that thou take
unto thyself Bahman, my son, and that thou rear him in
the land of Zaboulistan, and that thou teach him the arts
of war and of the banquet. And when the hour of
Gushtasp shall be come, I charge thee that thou put
Bahman in his place, and aid him with thy counsels
that he may be upright in the sight of men."
And Rustem sware unto him that it should be done
at his desire. Then Isfendiyar made him ready to
depart, and he spake words of comfort unto his son,
and he sent greetings unto his mother and to his
wives that were in Iran. And he made them say unto
his father that henceforward he need not fear him beside
the throne; and he cursed the name of Gushtasp, and
he said that the Shah had done that which was worthy
330
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
of his black soul. And he bade them speak before the
throne and say—
"We shall meet again before the Judge, and we shall
speak, and listen to His decree."
Then he said unto Rustem, "Thou hast done this.
deed by the arts of magic.”
And Rustem said, "It is true, for thou wouldst not
listen unto my voice, and I could not bend my spirit
unto chains."
And Isfendiyar said, "I am not angered against thee;
thou hast done that thou couldst not alter, for it was
written in the stars, and surely that which is written in
the stars is accomplished."
Then Rustem said, "God is my witness that I strove
to turn thee from thy resolve."
And Isfendiyar said, "It is known unto me." And
when he had thus spoken he sighed, and the sun of that
King was set. And there was great lamentation for
him in the army, and Rustem, too, bewailed the hero
that was fallen, and he prayed God for his soul. And
he said-
"May thine enemies reap that which they have sown."
Then Rustem made ready for Isfendiyar a coffin of
iron, and he caused it to be lined with silken stuffs, and
he laid therein the body of the young King. And it was
placed upon the back of a dromedary and forty others.
followed in its wake, and all the army of Isfendiyar
came after them, clad in robes of mourning.
And
RUSTEM AND ISFENDIYAR.
331
Bashuntan marched at the head of the train, and he
led the horse of Isfendiyar, and its saddle was reversed,
and its mane and its tail were shorn. And from its
sides hung the armour of the young King. And weep-
ing resounded through the ranks, and with sorrow did
the army return unto Iran.
But Rustem remained in Zaboulistan, and he kept
beside him Bahman, the son of Isfendiyar.
Now when Gushtasp learned the tidings of woe, he was
bowed down to the earth with sorrow, and remorse came
upon him and he strewed dust upon his head and he
humbled himself before God. And men came before
him and reproached him with that which he had done.
unto Isfendiyar, and he knew not how he should answer
them. And Bashuntan came in and saluted him not,
but upbraided him with his vile deeds. And he said-
"Neither the Simurgh, nor Rustem, nor Zal have
made an end of Isfendiyar, but only thou, for thou
alone hast caused him to perish."
And for the space of one year men ceased not to
lament for Isfendiyar, and for many years were tears
shed for that arrow. And men cried continually, "The
glory of Iran hath been laid low, and it is at the hands
of her Shah that it hath been done."
But Bahman grew up in the courts of Rustem, and
the Pehliva guarded him like to a son.
r
THE DEATH OF RUSTEM.

OW shall a man escape from that which is
written; how shall he flee from his destiny?
There stood a slave in the house of Zal,
and she was fair to see, so that the heart
of the aged man went out to her. And
there was born to her a son, goodly of mien, like unto
Saum the hero, and Zal named him Shugdad. Then he
consulted the Mubids concerning him, and they searched
the stars for his destiny, and they read therein that he
would do much evil in the house of his father, and lay
low the race of Saum, the son of Neriman. Now Zal,
when he heard this, was sore afflicted, and he prayed
unto God that He would avert this fate from his head.
And he reared him tenderly, and when he was come
unto man's estate he sent him forth into Cabul. And
the King of Cabul rejoiced in the sight of the hero, and
he kept him beside him and gave unto him his daughter
to wife.
Now the King of Cabul paid tribute unto Rustem,
and it was a grievance to him to do so, and since he had
THE DEATH OF RUSTEM.
333
taken Shugdad as his son he deemed that it was fitting
that he should be relieved of this burden. And he spake
thereof unto Shugdad, and said how Rustem ceased not
to demand it.
And Shugdad said, “This man is foolish. What mat-
tereth it whether he be my brother or a stranger, let us
consider how we may ensnare him."
So Shugdad and the King of Cabul passed a night
pondering how they should bring Rustem unto destruc-
tion. And Shugdad said-
"Call together thy nobles unto a feast, and when thou
shalt have drunk wine, speak insults unto me, and I will
be angered and ride forth unto Zaboulistan and make
plaint of thee before Rustem, and assuredly he will come
forth to avenge me. And while I am gone, cause a deep
pit to be dug on the road that Rustem must pass, a pit
that will swallow him and Rakush his steed, and line
the sides thereof with sharp spears, and swords, and
lances. And when it is done, cover it with earth and
let no man know thereof, nay, whisper it not even unto
the moon."
And the King said, "Thy device is good," and he made
a great feast and called thereto his warriors, and he spake
words of insult unto Shugdad, and he reproached him,
and said that he was not of the race of Saum, but son
unto a slave. And he said that Rudabeh would refuse
to him the name of brother unto Rustem. And he
334
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
spake lightly also of Rustem. Then Shugdad uprose as
though he were angered, and vowed that he would ride
unto Zaboulistan and call forth Rustem to avenge the
words that the King had spoken.
Now when Shugdad was come unto the courts of Zal,
and had told unto Rustem the words that the King of
Cabul had spoken, he was beside himself with anger, and
he said-
"I will slake my vengeance for this speech."
Then he chose out an army and made ready to go
into Cabul. But Shugdad said—
66
Wherefore dost thou take forth so large an army.
Surely Cabul shall be obedient when it but looketh
upon thy face. Yet this army will cause the King
to think that thou holdest him an enemy worthy of
regard."
Then Rustem said, "That which thou sayest, it is
wise," and he disbanded the army, and took with him
but few men and rode with them to Cabul.
In the mean season the King of Cabul had done
that which Shugdad counselled, and the pits that
had been dug were concealed with cunning. Now
when Rustem came nigh to the city, Shugdad sent
a messenger before him unto the King of Cabul,
saying-
"Rustem cometh against thee, it behoveth thee to
ask pardon for thy words."
THE DEATH OF RUSTEM.
335
And the King came forth, and his tongue was filled
with honey, but his heart was filled with poison. And
he bowed himself in the dust before Rustem, and he
asked his forgiveness for the words that he had spoken,
and he said-
"Consider not the words of thy servant that he did
speak when his head was troubled with wine."
And Rustem forgave the King, and consented to be
his guest. Then a great banquet was made, and while
they feasted the King told unto Rustem how his forests
were filled with wild asses and with rams, and he invited
him to hunt therein ere he should return unto Zaboulistan.
And these words were joy unto the ears of Rustem, and
he consented unto the desires of the King. So the
next day the King made ready a great hunt, and he
led it unto the spot where the pits were hidden. And
Shugdad ran beside the horse of Rustem, and showed
unto him the path. But Rakush, when he smelt the
soil that had been newly turned, reared him in air, and
refused to go onwards. Then Rustem commanded
him to go forward, but Rakush would not listen to
his voice. And Rustem was angry when he beheld
that Rakush was afraid. But Rakush sprang back yet
again. Then Rustem took a whip and struck him, and
before this day he had never raised his hand against
his steed. So Rakush was grieved in his soul, and
he did that which Rustem desired, and he sprang
336
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
forward and fell into the pit. And the sharp spears
entered his body and tore it, and they pierced also
the flesh of Rustem, and steed and rider were. im-
paled upon the irons that had been hidden by the
King. But Rustem put forth all his strength, and
raised himself. Yet when he had done it he was
weary, and fell down beside the pit. And he swooned
in his agony.
Now when Rustem was come unto himself, he saw
Shugdad, and he beheld in his face the joy felt of
this evil man at this adventure. Then he knew that
it was his brother that was his foe. So he said unto
him-
(C It is thou who hast done this deed."
And Shugdad said, "Thou hast caused many to
perish by the sword; it is meet that thou shouldst
perish by it thyself."
Now while they yet spake, the King of Cabul came
nigh unto the spot. And when he beheld Rustem, that
weltered in his blood, he feigned a great sorrow, and he
cried-
"O hero of renown, what thing hath befallen thee?
I will send forth my physicians, that they heal thee."
But Rustem said, "O man of wile, the time of physi-
cians is gone by, and there is none that can heal
me, save only death, that cometh to all men in their
turn."
THE DEATH OF RUSTEM.
337
Then he said unto Shugdad, "Give unto me my bow,
and place before me two arrows, and refuse not unto me
this last request. For I would have them beside me lest
a lion go by ere I am dead, and devour me for his prey."
And Shugdad gave unto Rustem his bow; but when
he had done so he was afraid, and he ran unto a plane
tree that stood near by. And the tree was old and
hollow, and Shugdad hid himself in its trunk. But
Rustem beheld him where he was hid, though the dim-
ness of death was come over his eyes. So he raised
him from the ground in his agony, and he took his
bow and bent it with force, and he shot an arrow and
fixed Shugdad unto the tree wherein he was hid. And
the aim was just, and pierced even unto the heart of this
evil man, so that he died. And Rustem, when he saw it,
smiled, and said-
"Thanks be unto God, the Merciful, whom all my
days I have sought to serve, that He hath granted unto
me to avenge myself upon this wretch while the life is
yet in me, and ere two nights have passed over this
vengeance."
But when he had so spoken the breath went out of
him, and the hero who had borne high his head was
vanished from this world.
Now a warrior of the train of Rustem rode with all
speed unto Zaboulistan, and told unto Zal the tidings of
And Zal was dismayed thereat, and his grief
sorrow.
Y
338
THE EPIC OF KINGS.
was boundless, and he cried continually after his son,
and he heaped curses upon Shugdad, that had uprooted
this royal tree. And he said-
"Wherefore have I been suffered to see this day?
Wherefore have I not died before Rustem, my son?
Wherefore am I left alone to mourn his memory?"
Now while he lamented thus, Feramorz, the son of
Rustem, gathered together an army to avenge his father.
And he went into Cabul, and he laid low all the men
he found therein, and he slew the King and all his
house, and he changed the land into a desert. And
when he had done so, he sought out the body of Rustem,
and of Rakush his steed, and he did unto them all
honour, and they were borne in sorrow unto Zaboulistan.
And Zal caused a noble tomb to be built for Rustem,
his son, and he laid him therein, and there was placed
beside him also Rakush, the steed that had served him
unto the end.
And the wailing throughout the land because of the
death of Rustem was such as the world hath not known
the like. And Zal was crushed with sorrow, and
Rudabeh was distraught with grief. And for many
moons were no sounds save those of wailing heard in
the courts of Seistan. And Rudabeh refused to take
comfort, and she cried without ceasing-
"He is gone before us, but we shall follow. Let us
rest our hopes in God."
THE DEATH OF RUSTEM.
339
And she gave unto the poor of her treasures, and
daily she prayed unto Ormuzd, saying—
"O Thou who reignest above, to whom alone per-
taineth honour and glory, purify the soul of Rustem
from all sin, and grant that he rejoice in the fruits that
he hath sown on earth, and give him a place beside
Thee."
And now may the blessing of God rest upon all
men. I have told unto them the Epic of Kings, and
the Epic of Kings is come to a close, and the tale of
their deeds is ended.
MUIR, PATERSON AND BRODIE, PRINTERS, EDINBURGH.

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
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DATE DUE