He left her—the unhappy maid; Her head upon the earth was laid, In bitterness of grief, and lone, Beside that dreadful demon-stone.

There happened, however, to be a fissure in the huge rock that covered the mouth of the pit, which allowed of Byzun's voice being heard, and bread and water was let down to him, so that they had the melancholy satisfaction of hearing each other's woes.

The story now relates to Girgin, who finding after several days that Byzun had not returned, began to repent of his treachery; but what is the advantage of such repentance? it is like the smoke that rises from a conflagration.

When flames have done their worst, thick clouds arise Of lurid smoke, which useless mount the skies.

He sought everywhere for him; went to the romantic retreat where the daughter of Afrasiyab resided; but the place was deserted, nothing was to be seen, and nothing to be heard. At length he saw Byzun's horse astray, and securing him with his kamund, thought it useless to remain in Turan, and therefore proceeded in sorrow back to Iran. Giw, finding that his son had not returned with him from Arman, was frantic with grief; he tore his garments and his hair, and threw ashes over his head; and seeing the horse his son had ridden, caressed it in the fondest manner, demanding from Girgin a full account of what he knew of his fate. "O Heaven forbid," said he, "that my son should have fallen into the power of the merciless demons!" Girgin could not safely confess the truth, and therefore told a falsehood, in the hope of escaping from the consequences of his own guilt. "When we arrived at Arman," said he, "we entered a large forest, and cutting down the trees, set them on fire. We then attacked the wild boars, which were found in vast numbers; and as soon as they were all destroyed, left the place on our return. Sporting all the way, we fell in with an elk, of a most beautiful and wonderful form. It was like the Simurgh; it had hoofs of steel, and the head and ears and tail of a horse. It was strong as a lion and fleet as the wind, and came fiercely before us, yet seemed to be a thing of air. Byzun threw his kamund over him; and when entangled in the noose, the animal became furious and sprung away, dragging Byzun after him. Presently the prospect was enveloped in smoke, the earth looked like the ocean, and Byzun and the phantom-elk disappeared. I wandered about in search of my companion, but found him not: his horse only remained. My heart was rent with anguish, for it seemed to me that the furious elk must have been the White Demon." But Giw was not to be deceived by this fabricated tale; on the contrary, he felt convinced that treachery had been at work, and in his rage seized Girgin by the beard, dragged him to and fro, and inflicted on him two hundred strokes with a scourge. The unhappy wretch, from the wounds he had received, fell senseless on the ground. Giw then hastened to Kai-khosrau to inform him of his misfortune; and though the first resolve was to put the traitor to death, the king was contented to load him with chains and cast him into prison. The astrologers being now consulted, pronounced that Byzun was still living, and Giw was consoled and cheered by the promptitude with which the king despatched troops in every quarter in search of his son.

"Weep no longer, warrior bold, Thou shalt soon thy son behold. In this Cup, this mirror bright, All that's dark is brought to light; All above and under ground, All that's lost is quickly found." Thus spake the monarch, and held up Before his view that wondrous Cup Which first to Jemshid's eye revealed All that was in the world concealed. And first before him lay exposed All that the seven climes enclosed, Whether in ocean or amid The stars the secret things were hid, Whether in rock or cavern placed, In that bright Cup were clearly traced. And now his eye Karugsar surveys, The Cup the province wide displays. He sees within that dismal cave Byzun the good, the bold, the brave; And sitting on that demon-stone Lovely Manijeh sad and lone. And now he smiles and looks on Giw, And cries: "My prophecy was true. Thy Byzun lives; no longer grieve, I see him there, my words believe; And though bound fast in fetters, he Shall soon regain his liberty."

Kai-khosrau, thinking the services of Rustem requisite on this occasion, dispatched Giw with an invitation to him, explaining the circumstance of Byzun's capture. Rustem had made up his mind to continue in peace and tranquillity at his Zabul principality, and not to be withdrawn again from its comforts by any emergency; but the reported situation of his near relative altered his purpose, and he hesitated not to give his best aid to restore him to freedom. Giw rejoiced at this, and both repaired without delay to the royal residence, where Khosrau gratified the champion with the most cordial welcome, placing him on a throne before him. The king asked him what force he would require, and he replied that he did not require any army; he preferred going in disguise as a merchant. Accordingly the necessary materials were prepared; a thousand camels were laden with jewels and brocades, and other merchandise, and a thousand warriors were habited like camel-drivers. Girgin had prayed to be released from his bonds, and by the intercession of Rustem was allowed to be of the party; but his children were kept in prison as hostages and security for his honorable conduct. When the champion, with his kafila, arrived within the territory of the enemy, and approached the spot where Byzun was imprisoned, a loud clamor arose that a caravan of merchandise had come from Iran, such as was never seen before. The tidings having reached the ear of Manijeh, she went immediately to Rustem, and inquired whether the imprisonment of Byzun was yet known at the Persian court? Rustem replied in anger: "I am a merchant employed in traffic, what can I know of such things? Go away, I have no acquaintance with either the king or his warriors." This answer overwhelmed Manijeh with disappointment and grief, and she wept bitterly. Her tears began to soften the heart of Rustem, and he said to her in a soothing voice:—"I am not an inhabitant of the city in which the court is held, and on that account I know nothing of these matters; but tell me the cause of thy grief." Manijeh sighed deeply, and endeavored to avoid giving him any reply, which increased the curiosity of the champion; but she at length complied. She told him who she was, the daughter of Afrasiyab, the story of her love, and the misfortunes of Byzun, and pointed out to him the pit in which he was imprisoned and bound down with heavy chains.

"For the sake of him has been my fall From royal state, and bower, and hall, And hence this pale and haggard face, This saffron hue thy eye may trace, Where bud of rose was wont to bloom, But withered now and gone; And I must sit in sorrow's gloom Unsuccoured and alone."

Rustem asked with deep interest if any food could be conveyed to him, and she said that she had been accustomed to supply him with bread and water through a fissure in the huge stone which covered the mouth of the pit. Upon receiving this welcome information, Rustem brought a roasted fowl, and inclosing in it his own seal-ring, gave it to Manijeh to take to Byzun. The poor captive, on receiving it, inquired by whom such a blessing could have been sent, and when she informed him that it had been given to her by the chief of a caravan from Iran, who had manifested great anxiety about him, his smiles spoke the joyous feelings of his heart, for the name of Rustem was engraved on the ring. Manijeh was surprised to see him smile, considering his melancholy situation, and could not imagine the cause. "If thou wilt keep my secret," said he, "I will tell thee the cause." "What!" she replied, "have I not devoted my heart and soul to thee?—have I not sacrificed everything for thy love, and is my fidelity now to be suspected?

"Can I be faithless, then, to thee, The choice of this fond heart of mine; Why sought I bonds, when I was free, But to be thine—forever thine?"

"True, true! then hear me:—the chief of the caravan is Rustem, who has undoubtedly come to release me from this dreadful pit. Go to him, and concert with him the manner in which my deliverance may be soonest effected." Manijeh accordingly went and communicated with the champion; and it was agreed between them that she should light a large fire to guide him on his way. He was prompt as well as valiant, and repaired in the middle of the following night, accompanied by seven of his warriors, directed by the blaze, to the place where Byzun was confined. The neighborhood was infested by demons with long nails, and long hair on their bodies like the hair of a goat, and horny feet, and with heads like dogs, and the chief of them was the son of Akwan Diw. The father having been slain by Rustem, the son nourished the hope of revenge, and perpetually longed for an opportunity of meeting him in battle. Well knowing that the champion was engaged in the enterprise to liberate Byzun, he commanded his demons to give him intelligence of his approach. His height was tremendous, his face was black, his mouth yawned like a cavern, his eyes were fountains of blood, his teeth like those of a wild boar, and the hair on his body like needles. The monster advanced, and reproaching Rustem disdainfully for having slain Akwan Diw, and many other warriors in the Turanian interest, pulled up a tree by the roots and challenged him to combat. The struggle began, but the Demon frequently escaped the fury of the champion by vanishing into air. At length Rustem struck a fortunate blow, which cut the body of his towering adversary in two. His path being now free from interruption, he sped onward, and presently beheld the prodigious demon-stone which covered the mouth of the pit, in which Byzun was imprisoned.

And praying to the Almighty to infuse Strength through his limbs, he raised it up, and flung The ponderous mass of rock upon the plain, Which shuddered to receive that magic load!

The mouth of the cavern being thus exposed, Rustem applied himself to the extrication of Byzun from his miserable condition, and letting down his kamund, he had soon the pleasure of drawing up the unfortunate captive, whom he embraced with great affection; and instantly stripped off the chains with which he was bound. After mutual congratulations had been exchanged, Rustem proposed that Byzun and Manijeh should go immediately to Iran, whilst he and his companions in arms attacked the palace of Afrasiyab; but though wasted as he was by long suffering, Byzun could not on any consideration consent to avoid the perils of the intended assault, and determined, at all hazards, to accompany his deliverer.

"Full well I know thy superhuman power Needs no assistance from an arm like mine; But grateful as I am for this great service, I cannot leave thee now, and shrink from peril, That would be baseness which I could not bear."

It was on the same night that Rustem and Byzun, and seven of his warriors, proceeded against that part of the palace in which the tyrant slept. He first put to death the watchman, and also killed a great number of the guard, and a loud voice presently resounded in the chamber of the king:—"Awake from thy slumbers, Afrasiyab, Byzun has been freed from his chains." Rustem now entered the royal palace, and openly declaring his name, exclaimed:—"I am come, Afrasiyab, to destroy thee, and Byzun is also here to do thee service for thy cruelty to him." The death-note awoke the trembling Afrasiyab, and he rose up, and fled in dismay. Rustem and his companions rushed into the inner apartments, and captured all the blooming damsels of the shubistan, and all the jewels and golden ornaments which fell in their way. The moon-faced beauties were sent to Zabul; but the jewels and other valuable property were reserved for the king.

In the morning Afrasiyab hastily collected together his troops and marched against Rustem, who, with Byzun and his thousand warriors, met him on the plain prepared for battle. The champion challenged any one who would come forward to single combat; but though frequently repeated, no attention was paid to the call. At length Rustem said to Afrasiyab:—"Art thou not ashamed to avoid a contest with so inferior a force, a hundred thousand against one thousand? We two, and our armies, have often met, and dost thou now shrink from the fight?" The reproach had its effect,

For the tyrant at once, and his heroes, began Their attack like the demons of Mazinderan.

But the valor and the bravery of Rustem were so eminently shown, that he overthrew thousands of the enemy.

In the tempest of battle, disdaining all fear, With his kamund, and khanjer, his garz, and shamshir, How he bound, stabbed, and crushed, and dissevered the foe, So mighty his arm, and so fatal his blow.

And so dreadful was the carnage, that Afrasiyab, unable to resist his victorious career, was compelled to seek safety in flight.

The field was red with blood, the Tartar banners Cast on the ground, and when, with grief, he saw The face of Fortune turned, his cohorts slain, He hurried back, and sought Turan again.

Rustem having obtained another triumph, returned to Iran with the spoils of his conquest, and was again honored with the smiles and rewards of his sovereign. Manijeh was not forgotten; she, too, received a present worthy of the virtue and fidelity she had displayed, and of the magnanimity of her spirit; and the happy conclusion of the enterprise was celebrated with festivity and rejoicing.



BARZU, AND HIS CONFLICT WITH RUSTEM

Afrasiyab after his defeat pursued his way in despair towards Chin and Ma-chin, and on the road happened to fall in with a man of huge and terrific stature. Amazed at the sight of so extraordinary a being, he asked him who and what he was. "I am a villager," replied the stranger. "And thy father?"—"I do not know my father. My mother has never mentioned his name, and my birth is wrapped in mystery." Afrasiyab then addressed him as follows:—"It is my misfortune to have a bitter and invincible enemy, who has plunged me into the greatest distress. If he could be subdued, there would be no impediment to my conquest of Iran; and I feel assured that thou, apparently endued with such prodigious strength, hast the power to master him. His name is Rustem." "What!" rejoined Barzu, "is all this concern and affliction about one man—about one man only?" "Yes," answered Afrasiyab; "but that one man is equal to a hundred strong men. Upon him neither sword, nor mace, nor javelin has any effect. In battle he is like a mountain of steel." At this Barzu exclaimed in gamesome mood:—"A mountain of steel!—I can reduce to dust a hundred mountains of steel!—What is a mountain of steel to me!" Afrasiyab rejoiced to find such confidence in the stranger, and instantly promised him his own daughter in marriage, and the monarchy of Chin and Ma-chin, if he succeeded in destroying Rustem. Barzu replied:—

"Thou art but a coward slave, Thus a stranger's aid to crave. And thy soldiers, what are they? Heartless on the battle-day. Thou, the prince of such a host! What, alas! hast thou to boast? Art thou not ashamed to wear The regal crown that glitters there? And dost thou not disgrace the throne Thus to be awed, and crushed by one; By one, whate'er his name or might, Thus to be put to shameful flight!"

Afrasiyab felt keenly the reproaches which he heard; but, nevertheless, solicited the assistance of Barzu, who declared that he would soon overpower Rustem, and place the empire of Iran under the dominion of the Tartar king. He would, he said, overflow the land of Persia with blood, and take possession of the throne! The despot was intoxicated with delight, and expecting his most sanguine wishes would be realized, made him the costliest presents, consisting of gold and jewels, and horses, and elephants, so that the besotted stranger thought himself the greatest personage in all the world. But his mother, when she heard these things, implored him to be cautious:—

"My son, these presents, though so rich and rare, Will be thy winding-sheet; beware, beware! They'll drive to madness thy poor giddy brain, And thou wilt never be restored again. Never; for wert thou bravest of the brave, They only lead to an untimely grave. Then give them back, nor such a doom provoke, Beware of Rustem's host-destroying stroke. Has he not conquered demons!—and, alone, Afrasiyab's best warriors overthrown! And canst thou equal them?—Alas! the day That thy sweet life should thus be thrown away."

Barzu, however, was too much dazzled by the presents he had received, and too vain of his own personal strength to attend to his mother's advice. "Certainly," said he, "the disposal of our lives is in the hands of the Almighty, and as certain it is that my strength is superior to that of Rustem. Would it not then be cowardly to decline the contest with him?" The mother still continued to dissuade him from the enterprise, and assured him that Rustem was above all mankind distinguished for the art, and skill, and dexterity, with which he attacked his enemy, and defended himself; and that there was no chance of his being overcome by a man entirely ignorant of the science of fighting; but Barzu remained unmoved: yet he told the king what his mother had said; and Afrasiyab, in consequence, deemed it proper to appoint two celebrated masters to instruct him in the use of the bow, the sword, and the javelin, and also in wrestling and throwing the noose. Every day, clothed in armor, he tried his skill and strength with the warriors, and after ten days he was sufficiently accomplished to overthrow eighteen of them at one time. Proud of the progress he had made, he told the king that he would seize and bind eighteen of his stoutest and most experienced teachers, and bring them before him, if he wished, when all the assembly exclaimed:—"No doubt he is fully equal to the task;

"He does not seem of human birth, but wears The aspect of the Evil One; and looks Like Alberz mountain, clad in folds of mail; Unwearied in the fight he conquers all."

Afrasiyab's satisfaction was increased by this testimony to the merit of Barzu, and he heaped upon him further tokens of his good-will and munificence. The vain, newly-made warrior was all exultation and delight, and said impatiently:—

"Delays are ever dangerous—let us meet The foe betimes, this Rustem and the king, Kai-khosrau. If we linger in a cause Demanding instant action, prompt appliance, And rapid execution, we are lost. Advance, and I will soon lop off the heads Of this belauded champion and his king, And cast them, with the Persian crown and throne Trophies of glory, at thy royal feet; So that Turan alone shall rule the world."

Speedily ten thousand experienced horsemen were selected and placed under the command of Barzu; and Human and Barman were appointed to accompany him; Afrasiyab himself intending to follow with the reserve.

When the intelligence of this new expedition reached the court of Kai-khosrau, he was astonished, and could not conceive how, after so signal a defeat and overthrow, Afrasiyab had the means of collecting another army, and boldly invading his kingdom. To oppose this invasion, however, he ordered Tus and Friburz, with twelve thousand horsemen, and marched after them himself with a large army. As soon as Tus fell in with the enemy the battle commenced, and lasted, with great carnage, a whole day and night, and in the end Barzu was victorious. The warriors of the Persian force fled, and left Tus and Friburz alone on the field, where they were encountered by the conqueror, taken prisoners, and bound, and placed in the charge of Human. The tidings of the result of this conflict were received with as much rejoicing by Afrasiyab, as with sorrow and consternation by Kai-khosrau. And now the emergency, on the Persian side, demanded the assistance of Rustem, whose indignation was roused, and who determined on revenge for the insult that had been given. He took with him Gustahem, the brother of Tus, and at midnight thought he had come to the tent of Barzu, but it proved to be the pavilion of Afrasiyab, who was seen seated on his throne, with Barzu on his right hand, and Piran-wisah on his left, and Tus and Friburz standing in chains before them. The king said to the captive warriors: "To-morrow you shall both be put to death in the manner I slew Saiawush." He then retired. Meanwhile Rustem returned thanks to Heaven that his friends were still alive, and requesting Gustahem to follow cautiously, he waited awhile for a fit opportunity, till the watchman was off his guard, and then killing him, he and Gustahem took up and conveyed the two prisoners to a short distance, where they knocked off their chains, and then conducted them back to Kai-khosrau.

When Afrasiyab arose from sleep, he found his warriors in close and earnest conversation, and was told that a champion from Persia had come and killed the watchman, and carried off the prisoners. Piran exclaimed: "Then assuredly that champion is Rustem, and no other." Afrasiyab writhed with anger and mortification at this intelligence, and sending for Barzu, despatched his army to attack the enemy, and challenge Rustem to single combat. Rustem was with the Persian troops, and, answering the summons, said: "Young man, if thou art calling for Rustem, behold I come in his place to lay thee prostrate on the earth." "Ah!" rejoined Barzu, "and why this threat? It is true I am but of tender years, whilst thou art aged and experienced. But if thou art fire, I am water, and able to quench thy flames." Saying this he wielded his bow, and fixed the arrow in its notch, and commenced the strife. Rustem also engaged with bow and arrows; and then they each had recourse to their maces, which from repeated strokes were soon bent as crooked as their bows, and they were themselves nearly exhausted. Their next encounter was by wrestling, and dreadful were the wrenches and grasps they received from each other. Barzu finding no advantage from this struggle, raised his mace, and struck Rustem such a prodigious blow on the head, that the champion thought a whole mountain had fallen upon him. One arm was disabled, but though the wound was desperate, Rustem had the address to conceal its effects, and Barzu wondered that he had made apparently so little impression on his antagonist. "Thou art," said he, "a surprising warrior, and seemingly invulnerable. Had I struck such a blow on a mountain, it would have been broken into a thousand fragments, and yet it makes no impression upon thee. Heaven forbid!" he continued to himself, "that I should ever receive so bewildering a stroke upon my own head!" Rustem having successfully concealed the anguish of his wound, artfully observed that it would be better to finish the combat on the following day, to which Barzu readily agreed, and then they both parted.

Barzu declared to Afrasiyab that his extraordinary vigor and strength had been of no account, for both his antagonist and his horse appeared to be composed of materials as hard as flint. Every blow was without effect; and "Heaven only knows," added he, "what may be the result of to-morrow's conflict." On the other hand Rustem showed his lacerated arm to Khosrau, and said: "I have escaped from him; but who else is there now to meet him, and finish the struggle? Feramurz, my son, cannot fulfil my promise with Barzu, as he, alas! is fighting in Hindustan. Let me, however, call him hither, and in the meanwhile, on some pretext or other, delay the engagement." The king, in great sorrow and affliction, sanctioned his departure, and then said to his warriors: "I will fight this Barzu myself to-morrow;" but Gudarz would not consent to it, saying: "As long as we live, the king must not be exposed to such hazard. Giw and Byzun, and the other chiefs, must first successively encounter the enemy."

When Rustem reached his tent, he told his brother Zuara to get ready a litter, that he might proceed to Sistan for the purpose of obtaining a remedy for his wound from the Simurgh. Pain and grief kept him awake all night, and he prayed incessantly to the Supreme Being. In the morning early, Zuara brought him intelligence of the welcome arrival of Feramurz, which gladdened his heart; and as the youth had undergone great fatigue on his long journey, Rustem requested him to repose awhile, and he himself, freed from anxiety, also sought relief in a sound sleep.

A few hours afterwards both armies were again drawn up, and Barzu, like a mad elephant, full of confidence and pride, rode forward to resume the combat; whilst Rustem gave instructions to Feramurz how he was to act. He attired him in his own armor, supplied him with his own weapons, and mounted him on Rakush, and told him to represent himself to Barzu as the warrior who had engaged him the day before. Accordingly Feramurz entered the middle space, clothed in his father's mail, raised his bow, ready bent, and shot an arrow at Barzu, crying: "Behold thy adversary! I am the man come to try thy strength again. Advance!" To this Barzu replied: "Why this hilarity, and great flow of spirits? Art thou reckless of thy life?" "In the eyes of warriors," said Feramurz, "the field of fight is the mansion of pleasure. After I yesterday parted from thee I drank wine with my companions, and the impression of delight still remains on my heart.

"Wine exhilarates the soul, Makes the eye with pleasure roll; Lightens up the darkest mien, Fills with joy the dullest scene; Hence it is I meet thee now With a smile upon my brow,"

Barzu, however, thought that the voice and action of his adversary were not the same as he had heard and seen the preceding day, although there was no difference in the armor or the horse, and therefore he said: "Perhaps the cavalier whom I encountered yesterday is wounded or dead, that thou hast mounted his charger, and attired thyself in his mail." "Indeed," rejoined Feramurz, "perhaps thou hast lost thy wits; I am certainly the person who engaged thee yesterday, and almost extinguished thee; and with God's favor thou shalt be a dead man to-day." "What is thy name?" "My name is Rustem, descended from a race of warriors, and my pleasure consists in contending with the lions of battle, and shedding the blood of heroes." Thus saying, Feramurz rushed on his adversary, struck him several blows with his battle-axe, and drawing his noose from the saddle-strap with the quickness of lightning, secured his prize. He might have put an end to his existence in a moment, but preferred taking him alive, and showing him as a captive. Afrasiyab seeing the perilous condition of Barzu, came up with his whole army to his rescue; but Kai-khosrau was equally on the alert, accompanied by Rustem, who, advancing to the support of Feramurz, threw another noose round the neck of the already-captured Barzu, to prevent the possibility of his escape. Both armies now engaged, and the Turanians made many desperate efforts to recover their gigantic leader, but all their manoeuvres were fruitless. The struggle continued fiercely, and with great slaughter, till it was dark, and then ceased; the two kings returned back to the respective positions they had taken up before the conflict took place. The Turanians were in the deepest grief for the loss of Barzu; and Piran-wisah having recommended an immediate retreat across the Jihun, Afrasiyab followed his counsel, and precipitately quitted Persia with all his troops.

Kai-khosrau ordered a grand banquet on the occasion of the victory; and when Barzu was brought before him, he commanded his immediate execution; but Rustem, seeing that he was very young, and thinking that he had not yet been corrupted and debased by the savage example of the Turanians, requested that he might be spared, and given to him to send into Sistan; and his request was promptly complied with.

When the mother of Barzu, whose name was Shah-ru, heard that her son was a prisoner, she wept bitterly, and hastened to Iran, and from thence to Sistan. There happened to be in Rustem's employ a singing-girl,[50] an old acquaintance of hers, to whom she was much attached, and to whom she made large presents, calling her by the most endearing epithets, in order that she might be brought to serve her in the important matter she had in contemplation. Her object was soon explained, and the preliminaries at once adjusted, and by the hands of this singing-girl she secretly sent some food to Barzu, in which she concealed a ring, to apprise him of her being near him. On finding the ring, he asked who had supplied him with the food, and her answer was: "A woman recently arrived from Ma-chin." This was to him delightful intelligence, and he could not help exclaiming, "That woman is my mother, I am grateful for thy services, but another time bring me, if thou canst, a large file, that I may be able to free myself from these chains." The singing-girl promised her assistance; and having told Shah-ru what her son required, conveyed to him a file, and resolved to accompany him in his flight. Barzu then requested that three fleet horses might be provided and kept ready under the walls, at a short distance; and this being also done, in the night, he and his mother, and the singing-girl, effected their escape, and pursued their course towards Turan.

It so happened that Rustem was at this time in progress between Iran and Sistan, hunting for his own pleasure the elk or wild ass, and he accidentally fell in with the refugees, who made an attempt to avoid him, but, unable to effect their purpose, thought proper to oppose him with all their might, and a sharp contest ensued. Both parties becoming fatigued, they rested awhile, when Rustem asked Barzu how he had obtained his liberty. "The Almighty freed me from the bondage I endured." "And who are these two women?" "One of them," replied Barzu, "is my mother, and that is a singing-girl of thy own house." Rustem went aside, and called for breakfast, and thinking in his own mind that it would be expedient to poison Barzu, mixed up a deleterious substance in some food, and sent it to him to eat. He was just going to take it, when his mother cried, "My son, beware!" and he drew his hand from the dish. But the singing-girl did eat part of it, and died on the spot. Upon witnessing this appalling scene, Barzu sprang forward with indignation, and reproached Rustem for his treachery in the severest terms.

"Old man! hast thou mid warrior-chiefs a place, And dost thou practice that which brings disgrace? Hast thou no fear of a degraded name, No fear of lasting obloquy and shame? O, thou canst have no hope in God, when thou Stand'st thus defiled—dishonoured, false, as now; Unfair, perfidious, art thou too, in strife, By any pretext thou wouldst take my life!"

He then in a menacing attitude exclaimed: "If thou art a man, rise and fight!" Rustem felt ashamed on being thus detected, and rose up frowning in scorn. They met, brandishing their battle-axes, and looking as black as the clouds of night. They then dismounted to wrestle, and fastening the bridles, each to his own girdle, furiously grasped each other's loins and limbs, straining and struggling for the mastery. Whilst they were thus engaged, their horses betrayed equal animosity, and attacked each other with great violence. Rakush bit and kicked Barzu's steed so severely that he strove to gallop away, dragging his master, who was at the same time under the excruciating grip of Rustem. "O, release me for a moment till I am disentangled from my horse," exclaimed Barzu; but Rustem heeding him not, now pressed him down beneath him, and was preparing to give him the finishing blow by cutting off his head, when the mother seeing the fatal moment approach, shrieked, and cried out, "Forbear, Rustem! this youth is the son of Sohrab, and thy own grandchild! Forbear, and bring not on thyself the devouring anguish which followed the death of his unhappy father.

"Think of Sohrab! take not the precious life Of sire and son—unnatural is the strife; Restrain, for mercy's sake, that furious mood, And pause before thou shedd'st a kinsman's blood."

"Ah!" rejoined Rustem, "can that be true?" upon which Shah-ru showed him Sohrab's brilliant finger-ring and he was satisfied. He then pressed Barzu warmly and affectionately to his breast, and kissed his head and eyes, and took him along with him to Sistan, where he placed him in a station of honor, and introduced him to his great-grandfather Zal, who received and caressed him with becoming tenderness and regard.



SUSEN AND AFRASIYAB

Soon after Afrasiyab had returned defeated into Turan, grievously lamenting the misfortune which had deprived him of the assistance of Barzu, a woman named Susen, deeply versed in magic and sorcery, came to him, and promised by her potent art to put him in the way of destroying Rustem and his whole family.

"Fighting disappointment brings, Sword and mace are useless things; If thou wouldst a conqueror be, Monarch! put thy trust in me; Soon the mighty chief shall bleed— Spells and charms will do the deed!"

Afrasiyab at first refused to avail himself of her power, but was presently induced, by a manifestation of her skill, to consent to what she proposed. She required that a distinguished warrior should be sent along with her, furnished with abundance of treasure, honorary tokens and presents, so that none might be aware that she was employed on the occasion. Afrasiyab appointed Pilsam, duly supplied with the requisites, and the warrior and the sorceress set off on their journey, people being stationed conveniently on the road to hasten the first tidings of their success to the king. Their course was towards Sistan, and arriving at a fort, they took possession of a commodious residence, in which they placed the wealth and property they had brought, and, establishing a house of entertainment, all travellers who passed that way were hospitably and sumptuously regaled by them.

For sparkling wine, and viands rare, And mellow fruit, abounded there.

It is recorded that Rustem had invited to a magnificent feast at his palace in Sistan a large company of the most celebrated heroes of the kingdom, and amongst them happened to be Tus, whom the king had deputed to the champion on some important state affairs. Gudarz was also present; and between him and Tus ever hostile to each other, a dispute as usual took place. The latter, always boasting of his ancestry, reviled the old warrior and said, "I am the son of Nauder, and the grandson of Feridun, whilst thou art but the son of Kavah, the blacksmith;—why then dost thou put thyself on a footing with me?" Gudarz, in reply, poured upon him reproaches equally irritating, accused him of ignorance and folly, and roused the anger of the prince to such a degree that he drew his dagger to punish the offender, when Reham started up and prevented the intended bloodshed. This interposition increased his rage, and in serious dudgeon he retired from the banquet, and set off on his return to Iran.

Rustem was not present at the time, but when he heard of the altercation and the result of it, he was very angry, saying that Gudarz was a relation of the family, and Tus his guest, and therefore wrong had been done, since a guest ought always to be protected. "A guest," he said, "ought to be held as sacred as the king, and it is the custom of heroes to treat a guest with the most scrupulous respect and consideration—

"For a guest is the king of the feast."

He then requested Gudarz to go after Tus, and by fair words and proper excuses bring him back to his festive board. Accordingly Gudarz departed. No sooner had he gone than Giw rose up, and said, "Tus is little better than a madman, and my father of a hasty temper; I should therefore wish to follow, to prevent the possibility of further disagreement." To this Rustem consented. Byzun was now also anxious to go, and he too got permission. When all the three had departed, Rustem began to be apprehensive that something unpleasant would occur, and thought it prudent to send Feramurz to preserve the peace. Zal then came forward, and thinking that Tus, the descendant of the Kais and his revered guest, might not be easily prevailed upon to return either by Gudarz, Giw, Byzun, or Feramurz, resolved to go himself and soothe the temper which had been so injudiciously and rudely ruffled at the banquet.

When Tus, on his journey from Rustem's palace, approached the residence of Susen the sorceress, he beheld numerous cooks and confectioners on every side, preparing all kinds of rich and rare dishes of food, and every species of sweetmeat; and enquiring to whom they belonged, he was told that the place was occupied by the wife of a merchant from Turan, who was extremely wealthy, and who entertained in the most sumptuous manner every traveller who passed that way. Hungry, and curious to see what was going on, Tus dismounted, and leaving his horse with the attendants, entered the principal apartment, where he saw a fascinating female, and was transported with joy.—She was

Tall as the graceful cypress, and as bright, As ever struck a lover's ravished sight; Why of her musky locks or ringlets tell? Each silky hair itself contained a spell. Why of her face so beautifully fair? Wondering he saw the moon's refulgence there.

As soon as his transports had subsided he sat down before her, and asked her who she was, and upon what adventure she was engaged; and she answered that she was a singing-girl, that a wealthy merchant some time ago had fallen in love with and married her, and soon afterwards died; that Afrasiyab, the king, had since wished to take her into his harem, which alarmed her, and she had in consequence fled from his country; she was willing, however, she said, to become the handmaid of Kai-khosrau, he being a true king, and of a sweet and gentle temper.

"A persecuted damsel I, Thus the detested tyrant fly, And hastening from impending woes, In happy Persia seek repose; For long as cherished life remains, Pleasure must smile where Khosrau reigns. Thence did I from my home depart, To please and bless a Persian heart."

The deception worked effectually on the mind of Tus, and he at once entered into the notion of escorting her to Kai-khosrau. But he was immediately supplied with charmed viands and goblets of rich wine, which he had not the power to resist, till his senses forsook him, and then Pilsam appeared, and, binding him with cords, conveyed him safely and secretly into the interior of the fort. In a short time Gudarz arrived, and he too was received and treated in the same manner. Then Giw and Byzun were seized and secured; and after them came Zal: but notwithstanding the enticements that were used, and the attractions that presented themselves, he would neither enter the enchanted apartment, nor taste the enchanted food or wine.

The bewitching cup was filled to the brim, But the magic draught had no charms for him.

A person whispered in his ear that the woman had already wickedly got into her power several warriors, and he felt assured that they were his own friends. To be revenged for this treachery he rushed forward, and would have seized hold of the sorceress, but she fled into the fort and fastened the gate. He instantly sent a messenger to Rustem, explaining the perplexity in which he was involved, and exerting all his strength, broke down the gate that had just been closed against him as soon as the passage was opened, out rushed Pilsam, who with his mace commenced a furious battle with Zal, in which he nearly overpowered him, when Feramurz reached the spot, and telling the venerable old warrior to stand aside, took his place, and fought with Pilsam without intermission all day, and till they were parted by the darkness of night.

Early in the morning Rustem, accompanied by Barzu, arrived from Sistan, and entering the fort, called aloud for Pilsam. He also sent Feramurz to Kai-khosrau to inform him of what had occurred. Pilsam at length issued forth, and attacked the champion. They first fought with bows and arrows, with javelins next, and then successively with maces, and swords, and daggers. The contest lasted the whole day; and when at night they parted, neither had gained the victory. The next morning immense clouds of dust were seen, and they were found to be occasioned by Afrasiyab and his army marching to the spot. Rustem appointed Barzu to proceed with his Zabul troops against him, whilst he himself encountered Pilsam. The strife between the two was dreadful. Rustem struck him several times furiously upon the head, and at length stretched him lifeless on the sand. He then impelled Rakush towards the Turanian army, and aided by Zal and Barzu, committed tremendous havoc among them.

So thick the arrows fell, helmet, and mail, And shield, pierced through, looked like a field of reeds.

In the meantime Susen, the sorceress, escaped from the fort, and fled to Afrasiyab.

Another cloud of dust spreading from earth to heaven, was observed in the direction of Persia, and the waving banners becoming more distinct, presently showed the approach of the king, Kai-khosrau.

The steely javelins sparkled in the sun, Helmet and shield, and joyous seemed the sight. Banners, all gorgeous, floating on the breeze, And horns shrill echoing, and the tramp of steeds, Proclaimed to dazzled eye and half-stunned ear, The mighty preparation.

The hostile armies soon met, and there was a sanguinary conflict, but the Turanians were obliged to give way. Upon this common result, Piran-wisah declared to Afrasiyab that perseverance was as ridiculous as unprofitable. "Our army has no heart, nor confidence, when opposed to Rustem; how often have we been defeated by him—how often have we been scattered like sheep before that lion in battle! We have just lost the aid of Barzu, and now is it not deplorable to put any trust in the dreams of a singing-girl, to accelerate on her account the ruin of the country, and to hazard thy own personal safety.

"What! risk an empire on a woman's word!"

Afrasiyab replied, "So it is;" and instantly urged his horse into the middle of the plain, where he loudly challenged Kai-khosrau to single combat, saying, "Why should we uselessly shed the blood of our warriors and people. Let us ourselves decide the day. God will give the triumph to him who merits it." Kai-khosrau was ashamed to refuse this challenge, and descending from his elephant, mounted his horse and prepared for the onset. But his warriors seized the bridle, and would not allow him to fight. He declared, however, that he would himself take revenge for the blood of Saiawush, and struggled to overcome the friends who were opposing his progress. "Forbear awhile," said Rustem, "Afrasiyab is expert in all the arts of the warrior, fighting with the sword, the dagger, in archery, and wrestling. When I wrestled with him, and held him down, he could not have escaped, excepting by the exercise of the most consummate dexterity. Allow thy warriors to fight for thee." But the king was angry, and said, "The monarch who does not fight for himself, is unworthy of the crown." Upon hearing this, Rustem wept tears of blood. Barzu now took hold of the king's stirrup, and knocked his forehead against it, and drawing his dagger, threatened to put an end to himself, saying, "My blood will be upon thy neck, if thou goest;" and he continued in a strain so eloquent and persuasive that Khosrau relaxed in his determination, and observed to Rustem: "There can be no doubt that Barzu is descended from thee." Barzu now respectfully kissed the ground before the king, and vaulting on his saddle with admirable agility, rushed onwards to the middle space where Afrasiyab was waiting, and roared aloud. Afrasiyab burned with indignation at the sight, and said in his heart: "It seems that I have nurtured and instructed this ingrate, to shed my own blood. Thou wretch of demon-birth, thou knowest not thy father's name! and yet thou comest to wage war against me! Art thou not ashamed to look upon the king of Turan after what he has done for thee?" Barzu replied: "Although thou didst protect me, thou spilt the blood of Saiawush and Aghriras unjustly. When I ate thy salt, I served thee faithfully, and fought for thee. I now eat the salt of Kai-khosrau, and my allegiance is due to him."

He spoke, and raised his battle-axe, and rushed, Swift as a demon of Mazinderan, Against Afrasiyab, who, frowning, cried:— "Approach not like a furious elephant, Heedless what may befall thee—nor provoke The wrath of him whose certain aim is death." Then placed he on the string a pointed dart, And shot it from the bow; whizzing it flew, And pierced the armor of the wondering youth, Inflicting on his side a painful wound, Which made his heart with trepidation throb; High exultation marked the despot's brow, Seeing the gush of blood his loins distain.

Barzu was now anxious to assail Afrasiyab with his mace, instead of arrows; but whenever he tried to get near enough, he was disappointed by the adroitness of his adversary, whom he could not reach. He was at last compelled to lay aside the battle-axe, and have recourse to his bow, but every arrow was dexterously received by Afrasiyab on his shield; and Barzu, on his part, became equally active and successful. Afrasiyab soon emptied his quiver, and then he grasped his mace with the intention of extinguishing his antagonist at once, but at the moment Human came up, and said: "O, king! do not bring thyself into jeopardy by contending against a person of no account; thy proper adversary is Kai-khosrau, and not him, for if thou gainest the victory, it can only be a victory over a fatherless soldier, and if thou art killed, the whole of Turan will be at the feet of Persia." Both Piran and Human dissuaded the king from continuing the engagement singly, and directed the Turanians to commence a general attack. Afrasiyab told them that if Barzu was not slain, it would be a great misfortune to their country; in consequence, they surrounded him, and inflicted on him many severe wounds. But Rustem and Feramurz, beholding the dilemma into which Barzu was thrown, hastened to his support, and many of the enemy were killed by them, and great carnage followed the advance of the Persian army.

The noise of clashing swords, and ponderous maces Ringing upon the iron mail, seemed like The busy work-shop of an armorer; Tumultuous as the sea the field appeared, All crimsoned with the blood of heroes slain.

Kai-khosrau himself hurried to the assistance of Barzu, and the powerful force which he brought along with him soon put the Turanians to flight. Afrasiyab too made his escape in the confusion that prevailed. The king wished to pursue the enemy, but Rustem observed that their defeat and dispersion was enough. The battle having ceased, and the army being in the neighborhood of Sistan, the champion solicited permission to return to his home; "for I am now," said he, "four hundred years old, and require a little rest. In the meantime Feramurz and Barzu may take my place." The king consented, and distributing his favors to each of his distinguished warriors for their prodigious exertions, left Zal and Rustem to proceed to Sistan, and returned to the capital of his kingdom.



THE EXPEDITION OF GUDARZ

The overthrow of the sovereign of Turan had only a temporary effect, as it was not long before he was enabled to collect further supplies, and another army for the defence of his kingdom; and Kai-khosrau's ambition to reduce the power of his rival being animated by new hopes of success, another expedition was entrusted to the command of Gudarz. Rustem, he said, had done his duty in repeated campaigns against Afrasiyab, and the extraordinary gallantry and wisdom with which they were conducted, entitled him to the highest applause. "It is now, Gudarz, thy turn to vanquish the enemy." Accordingly Gudarz, accompanied by Giw, and Tus, and Byzun, and an immense army, proceeded towards Turan. Feramurz was directed previously to invade and conquer Hindustan, and from thence to march to the borders of Chin and Ma-chin, for the purpose of uniting and co-operating with the army under Gudarz, and, finally, to capture Afrasiyab.

As soon as it was known in Turan that Gudarz was in motion to resume hostilities against the king, Human was appointed with a large force to resist his progress, and a second army of reserve was gathered together under the command of Piran. The first conflict which occurred was between the troops of Gudarz and Human. Gudarz directed Byzun to attack Human. The two chiefs joined in battle, when Human fell under the sword of his adversary, and his army, being defeated, retired, and united in the rear with the legions of Piran. The enemy thus became of formidable strength, and in consequence it was thought proper to communicate the inequality to Kai-khosrau, that reinforcements might be sent without loss of time. The king immediately complied, and also wrote to Sistan to request the aid of Rustem. The war lasted two years, the army on each side being continually recruited as necessity required, so that the numbers were regularly kept up, till a great battle took place, in which the venerable Piran was killed, and nearly the whole of his army destroyed. This victory was obtained without the assistance of Rustem, who, notwithstanding the message of the king, had still remained in Sistan. The loss of Piran, the counsellor and warrior, proved to be a great affliction to Afrasiyab: he felt as if his whole support was taken away, and deemed it the signal of approaching ruin to his cause.

"Thou wert my refuge, thou my friend and brother; Wise in thy counsel, gallant in the field, My monitor and guide—and thou art gone! The glory of my kingdom is eclipsed, Since thou hast vanished from this world, and left me All wretched to myself. But food, nor sleep Nor rest will I indulge in, till just vengeance Has been inflicted on the cruel foe."

When the news of Piran's death reached Kai-khosrau, he rapidly marched forward, crossed the Jihun without delay, and passed through Samerkand and Bokhara, to encounter the Turanians. Afrasiyab, in the meantime, had not been neglectful. He had all his hidden treasure dug up, with which he assembled a prodigious army, and appointed his son Shydah-Poshang to the command of a hundred thousand horsemen. To oppose this force, Khosrau appointed his young relative, Lohurasp, with eight thousand horsemen, and passing through Sistan, desired Rustem, on account of Lohurasp's tender age and inexperience, to afford him such good counsel as he required. When Afrasiyab heard this, he added to the force of Shydah another hundred thousand men, but first sent his son to Kai-khosrau in the character of an ambassador to offer terms of peace. "Tell him," said he, "that to secure this object, I will deliver to him one of my sons as a hostage, and a number of troops for his service, with the sacred promise never to depart from my engagements again.—But, a word in thy ear, Shydah; if Khosrau is not disposed to accept these terms, say, to prevent unnecessary bloodshed, he and I must personally decide the day by single combat. If he refuses to fight with me, say that thou wilt meet him; and shouldst thou be slain in the strife, I will surrender to him the kingdom of Turan, and retire myself from the world." He further commanded him to propound these terms with a gallant and fearless bearing, and not to betray the least apprehension. Shydah entered fully into the spirit of his father's instructions, and declared that he would devote his life to the cause, that he would boldly before the whole assembly dare Kai-khosrau to battle; so that Afrasiyab was delighted with the valorous disposition he displayed.

Kai-khosrau smiled when he heard of what Afrasiyab intended, and viewed the proposal as a proof of his weakness. "But never," said he, "will I consent to a peace till I have inflicted on him the death which Saiawush was made to suffer." When Shydah arrived, and with proper ceremony and respect had delivered his message, Kai-khosrau invited him to retire to his chamber and go to rest, and he would send an answer by one of his people. Shydah accordingly retired, and the king proceeded to consult his warrior-friends on the offers that had been made. "Afrasiyab tells me," said he, "that if I do not wish for peace, I must fight either him or his son. I have seen Shydah—his eyes are red and blood-shot, and he has a fierce expression of feature; if I do not accept his terms, I shall probably soon have a dagger lodged in my breast." Saying this, he ordered his mail to be got ready; but Rustem and all the great men about him exclaimed, unanimously: "This must not be allowed; Afrasiyab is full of fraud, artifice, and sorcery, and notoriously faithless to his engagements. The sending of Shydah is all a trick, and his letter of proposal all deceit: his object is simply to induce thee to fight him alone.

"If them shouldst kill this Shydah—what of that! There would be one Turanian warrior less, To vex the world withal; would that be triumph? And to a Persian king? But if it chanced, That thou shouldst meet with an untimely death, By dart or javelin, at the stripling's hands, What scathe and ruin would this realm befall!"

By the advice of Rustem, Kai-khosrau gave Shydah permission to depart, and said that he would send his answer to Afrasiyab by Karun. "But," observed the youth, "I have come to fight thee!" which touched the honor of the king, and he replied: "Be it so, let us then meet to-morrow."

In the meantime Khosrau prepared his letter to Afrasiyab, in which he said:—

"Our quarrel now is dark to view, It bears the fiercest, gloomiest hue; And vain have speech and promise been To change for peace the battle scene; For thou art still to treachery prone, Though gentle now in word and tone; But that imperial crown thou wearest, That mace which thou in battle bearest, Thy kingdom, all, thou must resign; Thy army too—for all are mine! Thou talk'st of strength, and might, and power, When revelling in a prosperous hour; But know, that strength of nerve and limb We owe to God—it comes from Him! And victory's palm, and regal sway, Alike the will of Heaven obey. Hence thy lost throne, no longer thine, Will soon, perfidious king! be mine!"

In giving this letter to Karun, Kai-khosrau directed him, in the first place, to deliver a message from him to Shydah, to the following effect:—

"Driven art thou out from home and life, Doomed to engage in mortal strife, For deeply lours misfortune's cloud; That gay attire will be thy shroud; Blood from thy father's eyes will gush, As Kaus wept for Saiawush."

In the morning Khosrau went to the appointed place, and when he approached Shydah, the latter said, "Thou hast come on foot, let our trial be in wrestling;" and the proposal being agreed to, both applied themselves fiercely to the encounter, at a distance from the troops.

The youth appeared with joyous mien, And bounding heart, for life was new; By either host the strife was seen, And strong and fierce the combat grew.

Shydah exerted his utmost might, but was unable to move his antagonist from the ground; whilst Khosrau lifted him up without difficulty, and, dashing him on the plain,

He sprang upon him as the lion fierce Springs on the nimble gor, then quickly drew His deadly dagger, and with cruel aim, Thrust the keen weapon through the stripling's heart.

Khosrau, immediately after slaying him, ordered the body to be washed with musk and rose-water, and, after burial, a tomb to be raised to his memory.

When Karun reached the court of Afrasiyab with the answer to the offer of peace, intelligence had previously arrived that Shydah had fallen in the combat, which produced in the mind of the father the greatest anguish. He gave no reply to Karun, but ordered the drums and trumpets to be sounded, and instantly marched with a large army against the enemy. The two hosts were soon engaged, the anger of the Turanians being so much roused and sharpened by the death of the prince, that they were utterly regardless of their lives. The battle, therefore, was fought with unusual fury.

Two sovereigns in the field, in desperate strife, Each by a grievous cause of wrath, urged on To glut revenge; this, for a father's life Wantonly sacrificed; that for a son Slain in his prime.—The carnage has begun, And blood is seen to flow on every side; Thousands are slaughtered ere the day is done, And weltering swell the sanguinary tide; And why? To soothe man's hate, his cruelty, and pride.

The battle terminated in the discomfiture and defeat of the Turanians, who fled from the conquerors in the utmost confusion. The people seized hold of the bridle of Afrasiyab's horse, and obliged him to follow his scattered army.

Kai-khosrau having despatched an account of his victory to Kaus, went in pursuit of Afrasiyab, traversing various countries and provinces, till he arrived on the borders of Chin. The Khakan, or sovereign of that state, became in consequence greatly alarmed, and presented to him large presents to gain his favor, but the only object of Khosrau was to secure Afrasiyab, and he told the ambassador that if his master dared to afford him protection, he would lay waste the whole kingdom. The Khakan therefore withdrew his hospitable services, and the abandoned king was compelled to seek another place of refuge.



THE DEATH OF AFRASIYAB

Melancholy and afflicted, Afrasiyab penetrated through wood and desert, and entered the province of Mikran, whither he was followed by Kai-khosrau and his army. He then quitted Mikran, but his followers had fallen off to a small number and to whatever country or region he repaired for rest and protection, none was given, lest the vengeance of Kai-khosrau should be hurled upon the offender. Still pursued and hunted like a wild beast, and still flying from his enemies, the small retinue which remained with him at last left him, and he was left alone, dejected, destitute, and truly forlorn. In this state of desertion he retired into a cave, where he hoped to continue undiscovered and unseen.

It chanced, however, that a man named Hum, of the race of Feridun, dwelt hard by. He was remarkable for his strength and bravery, but had peacefully taken up his abode upon the neighboring mountain, and was passing a religious life without any communication with the busy world. His dwelling was a little way above the cave of Afrasiyab. One night he heard a voice of lamentation below, and anxious to ascertain from whom and whence it proceeded, he stole down to the spot and listened. The mourner spoke in the Turkish language, and said:—"O king of Turan and Chin, where is now thy pomp and power! How has Fortune cast away thy throne and thy treasure to the winds?" Hearing these words Hum conjectured that this must be Afrasiyab; and as he had suffered severely from the tyranny of that monarch, his feelings of vengeance were awakened, and he approached nearer to be certain that it was he. The same lamentations were repeated, and he felt assured that it was Afrasiyab himself. He waited patiently, however, till morning dawned, and then he called out at the mouth of the cave:—"O, king of the world! come out of thy cave, and obtain thy desires! I have left the invisible sphere to accomplish thy wishes. Appear!" Afrasiyab thinking this a spiritual call, went out of the cave and was instantly recognized by Hum, who at the same moment struck him a severe blow on the forehead, which felled him to the earth, and then secured his hands behind his back. When the monarch found himself in fetters and powerless, he complained of the cruelty inflicted upon him, and asked Hum why he had treated a stranger in that manner. Hum replied: "How many a prince of the race of Feridun hast thou sacrificed to thy ambition? How many a heart hast thou broken? I, too, am one who was compelled to fly from thy persecutions, and take refuge here on this desert mountain, and constantly have I prayed for thy ruin that I might be released from this miserable mode of existence, and be permitted to return to my paternal home. My prayer has been heard at last, and God has delivered thee into my hands. But how earnest thou hither, and by what strange vicissitudes art thou thus placed before me?" Afrasiyab communicated to him the story of his misfortunes, and begged of him rather to put him to death on the spot than convey him to Kai-khosrau. But Hum was too much delighted with having the tyrant under his feet to consider either his safety or his feelings, and was not long in bringing him to the Persian king. Kai-khosrau received the prisoner with exultation, and made Hum a magnificent present. He well recollected the basin and the dagger used in the murder of Saiawush, and commanded the presence of the treacherous Gersiwaz, that he and Afrasiyab might suffer, in every respect, the same fate together. The basin was brought, and the two victims were put to death, like two goats, their heads being chopped off from their bodies.

After this sanguinary catastrophe, Kai-khosrau returned to Iran, leaving Rustem to proceed to his own principality. Kai-kaus quitted his palace, according to his established custom, to welcome back the conqueror. He kissed his head and face, and showered upon him praises and blessings for the valor he had displayed, and the deeds he had done, and especially for having so signally revenged the cruel murder of his father Saiawush.



THE DEATH OF KAI-KHOSRAU

Kai-khosrau at last became inspired by an insurmountable attachment to a religious life, and thought only of devotion to God. Thus influenced by a disposition peculiar to ascetics, he abandoned the duties of sovereignty, and committed all state affairs to the care of his ministers. The chiefs and warriors remonstrated respectfully against this mode of government, and trusted that he would devote only a few hours in the day to the transactions of the kingdom, and the remainder to prayer and religious exercises; but this he refused, saying:—"One heart is not equal to both duties; my affections indeed are not for this transitory world, and I trust to be an inhabitant of the world to come." The nobles were in great sorrow at this declaration, and anxiously applied to Zal and Rustem, in the hopes of working some change in the king's disposition. On their arrival the people cried to them:—

"Some evil eye has smote the king;—Iblis By wicked wiles has led his soul astray, And withered all life's pleasures. O release Our country from the sorrow, the dismay Which darkens every heart:—his ruin stay. Is it not mournful thus to see him cold And gloomy, casting pomp and joy away? Restore him to himself; let us behold Again the victor-king, the generous, just and bold."

Zal and Rustem went to the palace of the king in a melancholy mood, and Khosrau having heard of their approach, enquired of them why they had left Sistan. They replied that the news of his having relinquished all concern in the affairs of the kingdom had induced them to wait upon him. "I am weary of the troubles of this life," said he composedly, "and anxious to prepare for a future state." "But death," observed Zal, "is a great evil. It is dreadful to die!" Upon this the king said:—"I cannot endure any longer the deceptions and the perfidy of mankind. My love of heaven is so great that I cannot exist one moment without devotion and prayer. Last night a mysterious voice whispered in my ear:—The time of thy departure is nigh, prepare the load for thy journey, and neglect not thy warning angel, or the opportunity will be lost." When Zal and Rustem saw that Khosrau was resolved, and solemnly occupied in his devotions, they were for some time silent. But Zal was at length moved, and said:—"I will go into retirement and solitude with the king, and by continual prayer, and through his blessing, I too may be forgiven." "This, indeed," said the king, "is not the place for me. I must seek out a solitary cell, and there resign my soul to heaven." Zal and Rustem wept, and quitted the palace, and all the warriors were in the deepest affliction.

The next day Kai-khosrau left his apartment, and called together his great men and warriors, and said to them:—

"That which I sought for, I have now obtained. Nothing remains of worldly wish, or hope, To disappoint or vex me. I resign The pageantry of kings, and turn away From all the pomp of the Kaianian throne, Sated with human grandeur.—Now, farewell! Such is my destiny. To those brave friends, Who, ever faithful, have my power upheld, I will discharge the duty of a king, Paying the pleasing debt of gratitude."

He then ordered his tents to be pitched in the desert, and opened his treasury, and for seven days made a sumptuous feast, and distributed food and money among the indigent, the widows, and orphans, and every destitute person was abundantly supplied with the necessaries of life, so that there was no one left in a state of want throughout the empire. He also attended to the claims of his warriors. To Rustem he gave Zabul, and Kabul, and Nim-ruz. He appointed Lohurasp, the son-in-law of Kai-kaus, successor to his throne, and directed all his people to pay the same allegiance to him as they had done to himself; and they unanimously consented, declaring their firm attachment to his person and government. He appointed Gudarz the chief minister, and Giw to the chief command of the armies. To Tus he gave Khorassan; and he said to Friburz, the son of Kaus:—"Be thou obedient, I beseech thee, to the commands of Lohurasp, whom I have instructed, and brought up with paternal care; for I know of no one so well qualified in the art of governing a kingdom." The warriors of Iran were surprised, and murmured together, that the son of Kai-kaus should be thus placed under the authority of Lohurasp. But Zal observed to them:—"If it be the king's will, it is enough!" The murmurs of the warriors having reached Kai-khosrau, he sent for them, and addressed them thus:—"Friburz is well known to be unequal to the functions of sovereignty; but Lohurasp is enlightened, and fully comprehends all the duties of regal sway. He is a descendant of Husheng, wise and merciful, and God is my witness, I think him perfectly calculated to make a nation happy." Hearing this eulogium on the character of the new king from Kai-khosrau, all the warriors expressed their satisfaction, and anticipated a glorious reign. Khosrau further said:—"I must now address you on another subject. In my dreams a fountain has been pointed out to me; and when I visit that fountain, my life will be resigned to its Creator." He then bid farewell to all the people around him, and commenced his journey; and when he had accomplished one stage he pitched his tent. Next day he resumed his task, and took leave of Zal and Rustem; who wept bitterly as they parted from him.

"Alas!" they said, "that one on whom Heaven has bestowed a mind so great, A heart so brave, should seek the tomb, And not his hour in patience wait. The wise in wonder gaze, and say, No mortal being ever trod Before, the dim supernal way, And living, saw the face of God!"

After Zal and Rustem, then Khosrau took leave of Gudarz and Giw and Tus, and Gustahem, but unwilling to go back, they continued with him. He soon arrived at the promised fountain, in which he bathed. He then said to his followers:—"Now is the time for our separation;—you must go;" but they still remained. Again he said:—"You must go quickly; for presently heavy showers of snow will fall, and a tempestuous wind will arise, and you will perish in the storm." Saying this, he went into the fountain, and vanished!

And not a trace was left behind, And not a dimple on the wave; All sought, but sought in vain, to find The spot which proved Kai-khosrau's grave!

The king having disappeared in this extraordinary manner, a loud lamentation ascended from his followers; and when the paroxysm of amazement and sorrow had ceased, Friburz said:—"Let us now refresh ourselves with food, and rest awhile." Accordingly those that remained ate a little, and were soon afterwards overcome with sleep. Suddenly a great wind arose, and the snow fell and clothed the earth in white, and all the warriors and soldiers who accompanied Kai-khosrau to the mysterious fountain, and amongst them Tus and Friburz, and Giw, were while asleep overwhelmed in the drifts of snow. Not a man survived. Gudarz had returned when about half-way on the road; and not hearing for a long time any tidings of his companions, sent a person to ascertain the cause of their delay. Upon proceeding to the fatal place, the messenger, to his amazement and horror, found them all stiff and lifeless under the snow!



LOHURASP

The reputation of Lohurasp was of the highest order, and it is said that his administration of the affairs of his kingdom was more just and paternal than even that of Kai-khosrau. "The counsel which Khosrau gave me," said he, "was wise and admirable; but I find that I must go beyond him in moderation and clemency to the poor." Lohurasp had four sons, two by the daughter of Kai-kaus, one named Ardshir, and the other Shydasp; and two by another woman, and they were named Gushtasp and Zarir. But Gushtasp was intrepid, acute, and apparently marked out for sovereignty, and on account of his independent conduct, no favorite with his father; in defiance of whom, with a rebellious spirit, he collected together a hundred thousand horsemen, and proceeded with them towards Hindustan of his own accord. Lohurasp sent after him his brother Zarir, with a thousand horsemen, in the hopes of influencing him to return; but when Zarir overtook him and endeavored to persuade him not to proceed any further, he said to him, with an animated look:—

"Proceed no farther!—Well thou know'st We've no Kaianian blood to boast, And, therefore, but a minor part In Lohurasp's paternal heart. Nor thou, nor I, can ever own From him the diadem or throne. The brothers of Kaus's race By birth command the brightest place, Then what remains for us? We must To other means our fortunes trust. We cannot linger here, and bear A life of discontent—despair."

Zarir, however, reasoned with him so winningly and effectually, that at last he consented to return; but only upon the condition that he should be nominated heir to the throne, and treated with becoming respect and ceremony. Zarir agreed to interpose his efforts to this end, and brought him back to his father; but it was soon apparent that Lohurasp had no inclination to promote the elevation of Gushtasp in preference to the claims of his other sons; and indeed shortly afterwards manifested to what quarter his determination on this subject was directed. It was indeed enough that his determination was unfavorable to the views of Gushtasp, who now, in disgust, fled from his father's house, but without any attendants, and shaped his course towards Rum. Lohurasp again sent Zarir in quest of him; but the youth, after a tedious search, returned without success. Upon his arrival in Rum, Gushtasp chose a solitary retirement, where he remained some time, and was at length compelled by poverty and want, to ask for employment in the establishment of the sovereign of that country, stating that he was an accomplished scribe, and wrote a beautiful hand. He was told to wait a few days, as at that time there was no vacancy. But hunger was pressing, and he could not suffer delay; he therefore went to the master of the camel-drivers and asked for service, but he too had no vacancy. However, commiserating the distressed condition of the applicant, he generously supplied him with a hearty meal. After that, Gushtasp went into a blacksmith's shop, and asked for work, and his services were accepted. The blacksmith put the hammer into his hands, and the first blow he struck was given with such force, that he broke the anvil to pieces. The blacksmith was amazed and angry, and indignantly turned him out of his shop, uttering upon him a thousand violent reproaches.

Wounded in spirit, broken-hearted, Misfortune darkening o'er his head, To other lands he then departed, To seek another home for bread.

Disconsolate and wretched, he proceeded on his journey, and observing a husbandman standing in a field of corn, he approached the spot and sat down. The husbandman seeing a strong muscular youth, apparently a Turanian, sitting in sorrow and tears, went up to him and asked him the cause of his grief, and he soon became acquainted with all the circumstances of the stranger's life. Pitying his distress, he took him home and gave him some food.

After having partaken sufficiently of the refreshments placed before him, Gushtasp inquired of his host to what tribe he belonged, and from whom he was descended. "I am descended from Feridun," rejoined he, "and I belong to the Kaianian tribe. My occupation in this retired spot is, as thou seest, the cultivation of the ground, and the customs and duties of husbandry." Gushtasp said, "I am myself descended from Husheng, who was the ancestor of Feridun; we are, therefore, of the same origin." In consequence of this connection, Gushtasp and the husbandman lived together on the most friendly footing for a considerable time. At length the star of his fortune began to illumine his path, and the favor of Heaven became manifest.

It was the custom of the king of Rum, when his daughters came of age, to give a splendid banquet, and to invite to it all the youths of illustrious birth in the kingdom, in order that each might select one of them most suited to her taste, for her future husband. His daughter Kitabun was now of age, and in conformity with the established practice, the feast was prepared, and the youths of royal descent invited; but it so happened that not one of them was sufficiently attractive for her choice, and the day passed over unprofitably. She had been told in a dream that a youth of a certain figure and aspect had arrived in the kingdom from Iran, and that to him she was destined to be married. But there was not one at her father's banquet who answered to the description of the man she had seen in her dream, and in consequence she was disappointed. On the following day the feast was resumed. She had again dreamt of the youth to whom she was to be united. She had presented to him a bunch of roses, and he had given her a rose-branch, and each regarded the other with smiles of mutual satisfaction. In the morning Kitabun issued a proclamation, inviting all the young men of royal extraction, whether natives of the kingdom or strangers, to her father's feast. On that day Gushtasp and the husbandman had come into the city from the country, and hearing the proclamation the latter said: "Let us go, for in this lottery the prize may be drawn in thy name." They accordingly went. Kitabun's handmaid was in waiting at the door, and kept every young man standing awhile, that her mistress might mark him well before she allowed him to pass into the banquet. The keen eyes of Kitabun soon saw Gushtasp, and her heart instantly acknowledged him as her promised lord, for he was the same person she had seen in her dream.

As near the graceful stripling drew, She cried:—"My dream, my dream is true! Fortune from visions of the night Has brought him to my longing sight. Truth has portrayed his form divine; He lives—he lives—and he is mine!"

She presently descended from her balcony, and gave him a bunch of roses, the token by which her choice was made known, and then retired. The king, when he heard of what she had done, was exceedingly irritated, thinking that her affections were placed on a beggar, or some nameless stranger of no birth or fortune, and his first impulse was to have her put to death. But his people assembled around him, and said:—"What can be the use of killing her?—It is in vain to resist the flood of destiny, for what will be, will be.

"The world itself is governed still by Fate, Fate rules the warrior's and the monarch's state; And woman's heart, the passions of her soul, Own the same power, obey the same control; For what can love's impetuous force restrain? Blood may be shed, but what will be thy gain?"

After this remonstrance he desired enquiries to be made into the character and parentage of his proposed son-in-law, and was told his name, the name of his father, and of his ancestors, and the causes which led to his present condition. But he would not believe a word of the narration. He was then informed of his daughter's dream, and other particulars: and he so far relented as to sanction the marriage; but indignantly drove her from his house, with her husband, without a dowry, or any money to supply themselves with food.

Gushtasp and his wife took refuge in a miserable cell, which they inhabited, and when necessity pressed, he used to cross the river, and bring in an elk or wild ass from the forest, give half of it to the ferryman for his trouble, and keep the remainder for his own board, so that he and the ferryman became great friends by these mutual obligations. It is related that a person of distinction, named Mabrin, solicited the king's second daughter in marriage; and Ahrun, another man of rank, was anxious to be espoused to the third, or youngest; but the king was unwilling to part with either of them, and openly declared his sentiments to that effect. Mabrin, however, was most assiduous and persevering in his attentions, and at last made some impression on the father, who consented to permit the marriage of the second daughter, but only on the following conditions: "There is," said he, "a monstrous wolf in the neighboring forest, extremely ferocious, and destructive to my property. I have frequently endeavored to hunt him down, but without success. If Mabrin can destroy the animal, I will give him my daughter." When these conditions were communicated to Mabrin, he considered it impossible that they could be fulfilled, and looked upon the proposal as an evasion of the question. One day, however, the ferryman having heard of Mabrin's disappointment, told him that there was no reason to despair, for he knew a young man, married to one of the king's daughters, who crossed the river every day, and though only a pedestrian, brought home regularly an elk-deer on his back. "He is truly," added he, "a wonderful youth, and if you can by any means secure his assistance, I have no doubt but that his activity and strength will soon put an end to the wolfs depredations, by depriving him of life."

This intelligence was received with great pleasure by Mabrin, who hastened to Gushtasp, and described to him his situation, and the conditions required. Gushtasp in reply said, that he would be glad to accomplish for him the object of his desires, and at an appointed time proceeded towards the forest, accompanied by Mabrin and the ferryman. When the party arrived at the borders of the wilderness which the wolf frequented, Gushtasp left his companions behind, and advanced alone into the interior, where he soon found the dreadful monster, in size larger than an elephant, and howling terribly, ready to spring upon him. But the hand and eye of Gushtasp were too active to allow of his being surprised, and in an instant he shot two arrows at once into the foaming beast, which, irritated by the deep wound, now rushed furiously upon him, without, however, doing him any serious injury; then with the rapidity of lightning, Gushtasp drew his sharp sword, and with one tremendous stroke cut the wolf in two, deluging the ground with bubbling blood. Having performed this prodigious exploit, he called Mabrin and the ferryman to see what he had done, and they were amazed at his extraordinary intrepidity and muscular power, but requested, in order that the special object of the lover might be obtained, that he would conceal his name, for a time at least. Mabrin, satisfied on this point, then repaired to the emperor, and claimed his promised bride, as the reward for his labor. The king of Rum little expected this result, and to assure himself of the truth of what he had heard, bent his way to the forest, where he was convinced, seeing with astonishment and delight that the wolf was really killed. He had now no further pretext, and therefore fulfilled his engagement, by giving his daughter to Mabrin.

It was now Ahrun's turn to repeat his solicitations for the youngest daughter. The king of Rum had another evil to root out, so that he was prepared to propose another condition. This was to destroy a hideous dragon that had taken possession of a neighboring mountain. Ahrun, on hearing the condition was in as deep distress as Mabrin had been, until he accidentally became acquainted with the ferryman, who described to him the generosity and fearless bravery of Gushtasp. He immediately applied to him, and the youth readily undertook the enterprise, saying:—"No doubt the monster's teeth are long and sharp, bring me therefore a dagger, and fasten round it a number of knives." Ahrun did so accordingly, and Gushtasp proceeded to the mountain. As soon as the dragon smelt the approach of a human being, flames issued from his nostrils, and he darted forward to devour the intruder, but was driven back by a number of arrows, rapidly discharged into his head and mouth. Again he advanced, but Gushtasp dodged round him, and continued driving arrows into him to the extent of forty, which subdued his strength, and made him writhe in agony. He then fixed the dagger, which was armed at right angles with knives, upon his spear, and going nearer, thrust it down his gasping throat.

Dreadful the weapon each two-edged blade Cut deep into the jaws on either side, And the fierce monster, thinking to dislodge it, Crushed it between his teeth with all his strength, Which pressed it deeper in the flesh, when blood And poison issued from the gaping wounds; Then, as he floundered on the earth exhausted, Seizing the fragment of a flinty rock, Gushtasp beat out the brains, and soon the beast In terrible struggles died. Two deadly fangs Then wrenched he from the jaws, to testify The wonderful exploit he had performed.

When he descended from the mountain, these two teeth were delivered to Ahrun, and they were afterwards conveyed to the king, who could not believe his own eyes, but ascended the mountain himself to ascertain the fact, and there he beheld with amazement the dragon lifeless, and covered with blood. "And didst thou thyself kill this terrific dragon?" said he. "Yes," replied Ahrun. "And wilt thou swear to God that this is thy own achievement? It must be either the exploit of a demon, or of a certain Kaianian, who resides in this neighborhood." But there was no one to disprove his assertion, and therefore the king could no longer refuse to surrender to him his youngest daughter.

And now between Gushtasp, and Mabrin, and Ahrun, the warmest friendship subsisted. Indeed they were seldom parted; and the three sisters remained together with equal affection. One day Kitabun, the wife of Gushtasp, in conversation with some of her female acquaintance, let out the secret that her husband was the person who killed the wolf and the dragon.

No sooner was this story told, than it spread, and in the end reached the ears of the queen, who immediately communicated it to the king, saying:—"This is the work of Gushtasp, thy son-in-law, of him thou hast banished from thy presence—of him who nobly would not disclose his name, before Mabrin and Ahrun had attained the object of their wishes." The king said in reply that it was just as he had suspected; and sending for Gushtasp, conferred upon him great honor, and appointed him to the chief command of his army.

Having thus possessed himself of a leader of such skill and intrepidity, he thought it necessary to turn his attention to external conquest, and accordingly addressed a letter to Alias, the ruler of Khuz, in which he said:—"Thou hast hitherto enjoyed thy kingdom in peace and tranquillity; but thou must now resign it to me, or prepare for war." Alias on receiving this imperious and haughty menace collected his forces together, and advanced to the contest, and the king of Rum assembled his own troops with equal expedition, under the direction of Gushtasp. The battle was fought with great valor on both sides, and blood flowed in torrents. Gushtasp challenged Alias to single combat, and the warriors met; but in a short time the enemy was thrown from his horse, and dragged by the young conqueror, in fetters, before the king. The troops witnessing the prowess of Gushtasp, quickly fled; and the king commencing a hot pursuit, soon entered their city victoriously, subdued the whole kingdom, and plundered it of all its property and wealth. He also gained over the army, and with this powerful addition to his own forces, and with the booty he had secured, returned triumphantly to Rum.

In consequence of this brilliant success, the king conferred additional honors on Gushtasp, who now began to display the ambition which he had long cherished. Aspiring to the sovereignty of Iran, he spoke to the Rumi warriors on the subject of an invasion of that country, but they refused to enter into his schemes, conceiving that there was no chance of success. At this Gushtasp took fire, and declared that he knew the power and resources of his father perfectly, and that the conquest would be attended with no difficulty. He then went to the king, and said: "Thy chiefs are afraid to fight against Lohurasp; I will myself undertake the task with even an inconsiderable army." The king was overjoyed, and kissed his head and face, and loaded him with presents, and ordered his secretary to write to Lohurasp in the following terms: "I am anxious to meet thee in battle, but if thou art not disposed to fight, I will permit thee to remain at peace, on condition of surrendering to me half thy kingdom. Should this be refused, I will myself deprive thee of thy whole sovereignty." When this letter was conveyed by the hands of Kabus to Iran, Lohurasp, upon reading it, was moved to laughter, and exclaimed, "What is all this? The king of Rum has happened to obtain possession of the little kingdom of Khuz, and he has become insane with pride!" He then asked Kabus by what means he accomplished the capture of Khuz, and how he managed to kill Alias. The messenger replied, that his success was owing to a youth of noble aspect and invincible courage, who had first destroyed a ferocious wolf, then a dragon, and had afterwards dragged Alias from his horse, with as much ease as if he had been a chicken, and laid him prostrate at the feet of the king of Rum. Lohurasp enquired his name, and he answered, Gushtasp. "Does he resemble in feature any person in this assembly?" Kabus looked round about him, and pointed to Zarir, from which Lohurasp concluded that it must be his own son, and sat silent. But he soon determined on what answer to send, and it was contained in the following words: "Do not take me for an Alias, nor think that one hero of thine is competent to oppose me. I have a hundred equal to him. Continue, therefore, to pay me tribute, or I will lay waste thy whole country." With this letter he dismissed Kabus; and as soon as the messenger had departed, addressed himself to Zarir, saying: "Thou must go in the character of an ambassador from me to the king of Rum, and represent to him the justice and propriety of preserving peace. After thy conference with him repair to the house of Gushtasp, and in my name ask his forgiveness for what I have done. I was not before aware of his merit, and day and night I think of him with repentance and sorrow. Tell him to pardon his old father's infirmities, and come back to Iran, to his own country and home, that I may resign to him my crown and throne, and like Kai-khosrau, take leave of the world. It is my desire to deliver myself up to prayer and devotion, and to appoint Gushtasp my successor, for he appears to be eminently worthy of that honor." Zarir acted scrupulously, in conformity with his instructions; and having first had an interview with the king, hastened to the house of his brother, by whom he was received with affection and gladness. After the usual interchange of congratulations and enquiry, he stated to him the views and the resolutions of his father, who on the faith of his royal word promised to appoint him his successor, and thought of him with the most cordial attachment. Gushtasp was as much astonished as delighted with this information, and his anxiety being great to return to his own country, he that very night, accompanied by his wife Kitabun, and Zarir, set out for Iran. Approaching the city, he was met by an istakbal, or honorary deputation of warriors, sent by the king; and when he arrived at court, Lohurasp descended from his throne and embraced him with paternal affection, shedding tears of contrition for having previously treated him not only with neglect but severity. However he now made him ample atonement, and ordering a golden chair of royalty to be constructed and placed close to his own, they both sat together, and the people by command tendered to him unanimously their respect and allegiance. Lohurasp repeatedly said to him:—

"What has been done was Fate's decree, Man cannot strive with destiny. To be unfeeling once was mine, At length to be a sovereign thine."

Thus spoke the king, and kissed the crown, And gave it to his valiant son.

Soon afterwards he relinquished all authority in the empire, assumed the coarse habit of a recluse, retired to a celebrated place of pilgrimage, near Balkh. There, in a solitary cell, he devoted the remainder of his life to prayer and the worship of God. The period of Lohurasp's government lasted one hundred and twenty years.



GUSHTASP, AND THE FAITH OF ZERDUSHT

I've said preceding sovereigns worshipped God, By whom their crowns were given to protect The people from oppressors; Him they served, Acknowledging His goodness—for to Him, The pure, unchangeable, the Holy One! They owed their greatness and their earthly power. But after times produced idolatry, And Pagan faith, and then His name was lost In adoration of created things.

Gushtasp had by his wife Kitabun, the daughter of the king of Rum, two sons named Isfendiyar and Bashutan, who were remarkable for their piety and devotion to the Almighty. Being the great king, all the minor sovereigns paid him tribute, excepting Arjasp, the ruler of Chin and Ma-chin, whose army consisted of Diws, and Peris, and men; for considering him of superior importance, he sent him yearly the usual tributary present. In those days lived Zerdusht, the Guber, who was highly accomplished in the knowledge of divine things; and having waited upon Gushtasp, the king became greatly pleased with his learning and piety, and took him into his confidence. The philosopher explained to him the doctrines of the fire-worshippers, and by his art he reared a tree before the house of Gushtasp, beautiful in its foliage and branches, and whoever ate of the leaves of that tree became learned and accomplished in the mysteries of the future world, and those who ate of the fruit thereof became perfect in wisdom and holiness.

In consequence of the illness of Lohurasp, who was nearly at the point of death, Zerdusht went to Balkh for the purpose of administering relief to him, and he happily succeeded in restoring him to health. On his return he was received with additional favor by Gushtasp, who immediately afterwards became his disciple. Zerdusht then told him that he was the prophet of God, and promised to show him miracles. He said he had been to heaven and to hell. He could send anyone, by prayer, to heaven; and whomsoever he was angry with he could send to hell. He had seen the seven mansions of the celestial regions, and the thrones of sapphires, and all the secrets of heaven were made known to him by his attendant angel. He said that the sacred book, called Zendavesta, descended from above expressly for him, and that if Gushtasp followed the precepts in that blessed volume, he would attain celestial felicity. Gushtasp readily became a convert to his principles, forsaking the pure adoration of God for the religion of the fire-worshippers.

The philosopher further said that he had prepared a ladder, by which he had ascended into heaven and had seen the Almighty. This made the disciple still more obedient to Zerdusht. One day he asked Gushtasp why he condescended to pay tribute to Arjasp; "God is on thy side," said he, "and if thou desirest an extension of territory, the whole country of Chin may be easily conquered." Gushtasp felt ashamed at this reproof, and to restore his character, sent a dispatch to Arjasp, in which he said, "Former kings who paid thee tribute did so from terror only, but now the empire is mine; and it is my will, and I have the power, to resist the payment of it in future." This letter gave great offence to Arjasp; who at once suspected that the fire-worshipper, Zerdusht, had poisoned his mind, and seduced him from his pure and ancient religion, and was attempting to circumvent and lead him to his ruin. He answered him thus: "It is well known that thou hast now forsaken the right path, and involved thyself in darkness. Thou hast chosen a guide possessed of the attributes of Iblis, who with the art of a magician has seduced thee from the worship of the true God, from that God who gave thee thy kingdom and thy grandeur. Thy father feared God, and became a holy Dirvesh, whilst thou hast lost thy way in wickedness and impiety. It will therefore be a meritorious action in me to vindicate the true worship and oppose thy blasphemous career with all my demons. In a month or two I will enter thy kingdom with fire and sword, and destroy thy authority and thee. I would give thee good advice; do not be influenced by a wicked counsellor, but return to thy former religious practices. Weigh well, therefore, what I say." Arjasp sent this letter by two of his demons, familiar with sorcery; and when it was delivered into the hands of Gushtasp, a council was held to consider its contents, to which Zerdusht was immediately summoned. Jamasp, the minister, said that the subject required deep thought, and great prudence was necessary in framing a reply; but Zerdusht observed, that the only reply was obvious—nothing but war could be thought of. At this moment Isfendiyar gallantly offered to lead the army, but Zarir, his uncle, objected to him on account of his extreme youth, and proposed to take the command himself, which Gushtasp agreed to, and the two demon-envoys were dismissed. The answer was briefly as follows:—

"Thy boast is that thou wilt in two short months Ravage my country, scathe with fire and sword The empire of Iran; but on thyself Heap not destruction; pause before thy pride Hurries thee to thy ruin. I will open The countless treasures of the realm; my warriors, A thousand thousand, armed with shining steel, Shall overrun thy kingdom; I myself Will crush that head of thine beneath my feet."

The result of these menaces was the immediate prosecution of the war, and no time was lost by Arjasp in hastening into Iran.

Plunder and devastation marked his course, The villages were all involved in flames, Palace of pride, low cot, and lofty tower; The trees dug up, and root and branch destroyed. Gushtasp then hastened to repel his foes; But to his legions they seemed wild and strange, And terrible in aspect, and no light Could struggle through the gloom they had diffused, To hide their progress.

Zerdusht said to Gushtasp, "Ask thy vizir, Jamasp, what is written in thy horoscope, that he may relate to thee the dispensations of heaven." Jamasp, in reply to the inquiry, took the king aside and whispered softly to him: "A great number of thy brethren, thy relations, and warriors will be slain in the conflict, but in the end thou wilt be victorious." Gushtasp deeply lamented the coming event, which involved the destruction of his kinsmen, but did not shrink from the battle, for he exulted in the anticipation of obtaining the victory. The contest was begun with indescribable eagerness and impetuosity.

Approaching, each a prayer addrest To Heaven, and thundering forward prest; Thick showers of arrows gloomed the sky, The battle-storm raged long and high; Above, black clouds their darkness spread, Below, the earth with blood was red.

Ardshir, the son of Lohurasp, and descended from Kai-kaus, was one of the first to engage; he killed many, and was at last killed himself. After him, his brother Shydasp was killed. Then Bishu, the son of Jamasp, urged on his steed, and with consummate bravery destroyed a great number of warriors. Zarir, equally bold and intrepid, also rushed amidst the host, and whether demons or men opposed him, they were all laid lifeless on the field. He then rode up towards Arjasp, scattered the ranks, and penetrated the headquarters, which put the king into great alarm: for he exclaimed:—"What, have ye no courage, no shame! whoever kills Zarir shall have a magnificent reward." Bai-derafsh, one of the demons, animated by this offer, came forward, and with remorseless fury attacked Zarir. The onset was irresistible, and the young prince was soon overthrown and bathed in his own blood. The news of the unfortunate catastrophe deeply affected Gushtasp, who cried, in great grief: "Is there no one to take vengeance for this?" when Isfendiyar presented himself, kissed the ground before his father, and anxiously asked permission to engage the demon. Gushtasp assented, and told him that if he killed the demon and defeated the enemy, he would surrender to him his crown and throne.